About Us

The Raccoon’s Story

Raccoon’s has been in the same spot for over 19 years. In its origination, it was called Cassidy’s.  One of the former owners still comes into Raccoon’s to this day. After Cassidy’s a former Pennsylvania police officer and helicopter pilot purchased the bar, his name was Joe Metz.  Joe was badly burned in a helicopter crash. After moving to Florida he purchased and changed the name of the bar to Raccoon’s.  Joe started the breakfast club and those same people come in Saturday mornings to this day. Joe passed away a few years ago at the age of 62, we lost a legend.

In June of 2002 Michael and Kathy Elliott purchased Raccoon’s.  Our day bartender, Diana, has worked at Raccoon’s for over 19 years and still bartends for us Monday through Thursday.

Michael & Kathy wanted Raccoon’s to be a part of them, so they transformed the bar into what it is today.  They put in a 16 tap draft system, two walk in coolers, new carpet and tile, remodeled the bathrooms, repainted, built a new stage for our rockin’ live music Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights. They also surprised our guests with over 20 new TV’s and the NFL Ticket; now Sundays is a big Party!

The first year the Elliotts owned Raccoon’s the Buccaneers won the super bowl.  Everyone thought it was some kind of luck from the Elliotts.  A few years later the Tampa Bay Lightning won the Stanley cup and customers gave the credit to Raccoon’s. The Elliotts knew it had nothing to do with them but loved the attention. In two years Raccoon’s doubled and then tripled it’s gross revenue.

One of the greatest things about Raccoon’s is the family atmosphere. Michael shakes everyone’s hands as they come in and gives the customers his personal attention. Michael and Kathy hold lots of charity events from cancer to fallen police officers, raising thousand of dollar for these charities.  We host yearly anniversary parties in June to thank our customers for their support. Trust us, you do not want to miss one of these parties! New Years Eve is special lock the doors and have a big party with catered food and everyone gets a free ride home (in the Brandon, Valrico area).

The Elliott’s are big on safety and take responsibility for their customers.  They pride themselves in great customer service and demand the best from their staff.  They feel they have the best staff that any owners could ask for.  Michael & Kathy are very hands on and oversee the entire operation from open to close.  If they are not there, they a phone call away.

We hope to see you at Raccoon’s soon! Tell us hello and that you read our story on our website!

Thanks,

Michael and Kathy Elliott