About 1919 N Howard Ave
1919 North Howard Avenue is a historic West Tampa building that today serves as the home of Mad Chiller World – a café‐bar and event space. The two-story brick structure dates to roughly 1905 and originally housed shops and apartments on West Tampa’s “Main Street.” In early decades it was a hub of neighborhood life – a hardware store, bakery, barber shop and other businesses kept Howard Avenue busy . Over time the block became quieter, but the recent renovation has revived it for the modern scene. According to a Local History Project write‐up, the storefronts were “silent” through the 1970s and 80s, but today the building “still hums with activity.” In particular, Mad Chiller World – a coffee/kava lounge by day and music venue by night – occupies the space . The building’s historic character (an early 20th-century commercial style of West Tampa) is notable: it was even documented by the U.S. Historic American Buildings Survey . Today the façade retains its vintage charm, while the interior is fully updated for diners and concertgoers.
What makes this address special is its blend of old and new. It anchors West Tampa’s cultural revival as one of the only performance venues outside the downtown/Ybor core. The MapQuest listing calls Mad Chiller World a “vibrant eatery” with an “eclectic menu” and “laid-back atmosphere” . By day it functions as a relaxed café (even being famous as Tampa’s first kava bar), and by night it pulses with live music and DJ shows. In fact the venue stays open late: local listings show Mad Chiller serving food and drinks from late afternoon until about 1:45 AM on weeknights . This makes it unique – you can grab a coffee or burger in the afternoon (as indicated by its “Comfort Food – American – Burgers” menu listing ), then dance to big-name DJs after dark. The location is right in the heart of historic West Tampa, a neighborhood once known for cigar factories and social clubs. Visiting 1919 N Howard Ave offers not just a show or class of kava, but a taste of the block’s century of stories – from early cigar‐town businesses to today’s vibrant arts scene.
Events and Programming
1919 N Howard Ave (Mad Chiller World) hosts a broad mix of events focused on live music and nightlife. The most common programming is electronic and dance music: the venue often stages drum-and-bass, dubstep and EDM nights. For example, in 2025 the club produced “Drum & Bass Sessions” nights featuring major international DJs. A summer 2025 show brought legendary DJ Dieselboy to town www.ticketfairy.com , and earlier that year UK drum’n’bass star DJ Hybrid headlined a similar event . These flyers from local promoters emphasize the venue’s club atmosphere and sound system suited to bass-heavy music. In other cases Mad Chiller hosts regional and local DJs, plus occasional live bands or mixed-genre dance parties. While many events are one-off specials, the venue has ongoing series like “Drum & Bass Sessions” or joint promotions with groups like R34; for instance, an AllEvents listing advertised an upcoming September 2025 dubstep show (“MCW Present: SFAM”) at this address. Aside from EDM, there are sometimes hip-hop nights, throwback theme parties, or even comedy/drama pop-ups – the full calendar changes year to year.
Shows typically happen on weekend evenings (Fridays and Saturdays) or occasionally Thursday nights. Concerts usually start in the late evening (around 9:00 PM) and run past midnight. Ticket prices vary by event: local DJ nights might charge around $10–15 in advance, while headliner nights can be $20–30 or more. (For example, large-act EDM shows in Tampa often fall in the $20–40 range.) Weekend dance events generally fill up after tickets are announced a few weeks earlier. Because it is an intimate club (see seating notes below), big-name acts often sell out, so it’s a good idea to buy tickets as soon as they go on sale. Some events also have an age-appropriate entry – most are 18+ (as Dieselboy’s event was www.ticketfairy.com ), with 21+ nights noted when alcohol service is primary. Door prices, if available, tend to be higher than online sales, so planning ahead pays off.
Tickets and Booking
There’s no permanent box office at 1919 N Howard itself, so tickets are generally purchased online or through the event promoter. Upcoming shows are listed on ticket platforms and social media, and organizers often release a limited number of advance-sale tickets. Check local event sites or the venue’s social pages a few weeks before a show to know when tickets drop. For popular acts, presales or fan-club sales are common, so following the artist or promoter online is useful. In practice, most events rely on electronic ticketing – sometimes through Eventbrite, Ticket Fairy, or similar services – rather than in-person sales. Still, if a show isn’t sold out, you may be able to buy tickets at the door. In many recent events (like the Dieselboy night www.ticketfairy.com ), advance tickets sold out quickly, so door tickets might go fast or not be available at all.
Typical tickets are tiered (early-bird vs general vs at-the-door) but generally range in the low tens to mid-twenties. For example, a local promoter might sell early tickets for $15 and general admission for $20–25. Always verify the posted price to avoid surprises. If a joint promoter is involved (the Dieselboy event was billed by Orion Records www.ticketfairy.com ), check that promoter’s site too. Special packages like VIP or meet-and-greet are rare at this size venue, but some events may offer a limited number of $30–40 tickets that include perks (like skipping the line or meeting DJs). Overall, expect clubs shows at 1919 N Howard to be similarly priced to other Tampa dance-venue shows. For really popular nights, the safest strategy is to buy well in advance or arrive early for walk-up tickets.
Seating and Layout
The venue at 1919 N Howard Ave is a classic club layout with a main dance floor and a stage/DJ booth at one end. It’s mostly general admission. That means there are no fixed auditorium seats – the audience stands and dances facing the performers. However, Mad Chiller World retains its café/lounge vibe in parts: there are couches and lounge seating along the sides and back of the room. Delightful details like a pool table and coffeehouse-style tables give the space a laid-back feel even during concerts . As one visitor review noted, “the seating is comfortable and they have a pool table,” creating a living-room atmosphere inside the club . This means you can grab a seat or relax on a sofa while still near the action, which is rare in a typical concert venue. The main floor is open for dancing; if you want to be in front of the stage, get there early or shoot for the middle area of the dance floor. The side lounges are great for conversation or a low-key view, but note they are off to the side of the performance area (not elevated).
Overall the venue likely accommodates on the order of a few hundred people (given the reported ~9,120 square feet of space , including all areas). Exact capacity isn’t published, but it’s definitely a snug, intimate hall rather than a stadium. Acoustics are lively – the room tends to emphasize bass from the professional sound system. If you’re sensitive to loud music, standing a bit farther back can help (front speakers are heavy on sub-bass). The second floor above (originally apartments) doesn’t serve as audience seating; all concertgoers stay on the ground floor. For VIP or special guests, venues like this sometimes rope off a small back area or bar stools, but in practice the space is open to all paying customers. In summary, best “seats” depend on your preference: the front-middle of the dance floor is the most immersive experience, while the side couches or bar stools offer a relaxed vantage. Fans often stand on benches or sofas along the wall for a slightly raised position.
Getting There and Parking
The address 1919 N Howard Ave is in West Tampa, just north of downtown Tampa. Major routes nearby include US Hwy 41 (Nebraska Ave) running north-south a block west, and State Road 60 running east-west a few blocks to the south. From the interstate, take I-275 to downtown Tampa and use city streets (like 22nd St or downtown bridges) to reach West Tampa. The venue is walkable from central West Tampa neighborhoods. The area is also within a few miles of Ybor City (to the east) and Westshore (to the west). For visitors from out of town, Tampa International Airport is about 10 miles away (roughly 15–20 minutes by car without traffic).
By car: Street parking lines N Howard Ave and the adjacent blocks (Henderson Ave, 20th St, etc.). These spaces are typically free after business hours, though always check signs – some meters or zones may apply 24/7 in West Tampa. There is also a small lot behind the row of buildings on Howard (look for a gravel lot accessed from Nebraska Ave). On busy nights, scout parking in surrounding residential streets (a short walk) or come early to nab a spot. There is no large paid parking garage immediately next door, but municipal lots in downtown/Ybor are a few blocks east. Rideshare drop-offs (Uber/Lyft) can be done right in front on Howard; the staff can point to a good curbside pickup lane if needed.
Public transit: Tampa’s HART bus system serves West Tampa. The nearest stop to 1919 N Howard Ave is where Route 14 (Armenia/Howard Avenue) crosses Howard Blvd (the bus runs north-south up Nebraska into West Tampa). In fact, schedule info for HART shows a “Howard Ave @ Green St” stop on Route 14 . In practice, you can ride any downtown bus toward North Howard or Series N routes; get off at the nearest corner (within a block of the venue). There is no rail or streetcar line to West Tampa (those serve downtown and Ybor City). Heading home late, bus service is limited after midnight, so plan rideshare or taxi if the show ends very late.
Inside the Venue
Entering 1919 N Howard Ave, expect a friendly but energetic atmosphere. As you come in, you’ll pass under a marquee or neon sign for Mad Chiller. Most events are 18+ (often 21+ after 10 PM when alcohol is served), so have a valid ID ready. Security personnel (typically pleasant but firm) will check IDs and may do a quick bag check. Large backpacks, outside beverages, or professional cameras are not allowed. Photography rules vary by event – for DJs and dance shows, cell phone photos are usually fine, but if there’s a special speaker or private event, no cameras might be enforced. There is no cloakroom or coat check (common in Florida nighttime venues), so plan to hold your gear or stow small bags on a bench.
Once inside, you’ll notice the blend of bar/café decor and concert club lighting. By day light pours through big windows (facing 20th St). At night, walls of exposed brick and wood are lit by colored stage lights. Seating includes cozy couches, lounge chairs and stools near the tables. A corner of the room holds a pool table (as reviewers have observed ), so during non-peak times you might even see it used. The long bar spans one side of the space; bartenders serve craft beers, cocktails and – signature to the place – kava “elixirs” and herbal teas. Indeed Mad Chiller is known for kava beverages, so many patrons sip kava cocktails (non-alcoholic, relaxing drinks made from kava root) as an alternative to alcohol. Late-night food is also available: since this is a sister to the brunch spot in SoHo, you’ll find comfort-food items on the menu – think gourmet burgers, flatbreads, waffles and fries . The Uber Eats listing shows a Burgers/American menu, and some patrons mention enjoying specialty waffles or sandwiches late into the night.
For amenities: Wireless internet may be offered (especially useful if you come early to study or socialize). Restrooms are located toward the rear (ground floor) – small but usually sufficient. There is no elevator (the upstairs offices are off-limits to visitors). You’ll see a merchandise table at bigger shows selling artist T-shirts and posters. If you get thirsty or hungry mid-show, the bar stays open throughout concerts (often with a tab/ID system). Keep in mind that once the show starts, doormen generally do not allow re-entry, so use the restroom or step out for water before the DJ line-up begins. One nice surprise: even on concert nights, the vibe stays playful – the lounge couches are still out and often filled with people chatting between songs. As one reviewer put it after a show, the space was “super chill for shows … love the idea of it with the couches and hangout areas!” .
Visually and acoustically, this isn’t a white-walled club. The decor is artsy – local paintings or murals may adorn the walls, and string lights or neon signs create a festive mood. The professional sound system is set for booming bass, so bring earplugs if you need a break. Lighting rigs include lasers and LED strobes for dance nights. If the show has a theme (80s night, anime rave, etc.), expect some related decor or attire among staff. Overall, you’ll feel more like you’ve walked into a cool warehouse café than a sterile concert hall: there’s wood floors, potted plants, and a generally warm “hangout” vibe under the flashing lights.
Nearby Amenities
While Mad Chiller is somewhat on the outskirts of Tampa’s tourist core, there are plenty of local spots nearby to round out your plans. **Dining:** West Tampa is known for its Latin American eateries. A few blocks from the venue you’ll find casual Cuban and Spanish restaurants. For example, Flor de Cuba bakery & café (on nearby Nebraska Ave) serves Cuban sandwiches and coffee – perfect for a quick bite before the show. Other notable nearby restaurants include Italian bistros, Southern BBQ joints and taquerias on Howard and Armenia avenues. (If you’re coming early, you could grab a meal at 20th Street restaurants or in "Little Havana" flair on Main St.) Because hours can be odd, check open times – many places here close by 9 or 10 PM on weeknights, but there are late-night pizza and taco spots as well.
**Bars:** If cocktails or local brews are on your itinerary, West Tampa has a few American-style pubs and a craft brewery a short drive away (on 22nd St). Within a 5–10 minute drive is Ybor City, a nightlife hotspot with dozens of bars and clubs – you could pre-game in Ybor then head back to Mad Chiller (it’s about 10-15 minutes east on Cass or MLK Jr Blvd). On Howard itself there are dive bars and watering holes, but keep to designated-driving if you drink. After the show, it’s safest to use a rideshare service – walking in the dark is not recommended.
**Hotels:** There aren’t many hotels right next door, as this is a residential/commercial neighborhood. The closest lodging options are in Ybor City (about 1–2 miles east). For example, the Hotel Haya or Aloft Tampa Ybor are a 10-minute drive away. Downtown Tampa hotels (like the historic Tampa Marriott on Franklin or a Hilton on Westshore) are roughly 15–20 minutes by car. If you’re visiting from out of town, staying in North Tampa or on the I-275 corridor works too; just budget an extra 10–15 minutes to reach Howard Ave in heavy traffic. Many first-time visitors treat 1919 N Howard a bit like a downtown nightclub – they plan to stay in Tampa’s city-center hotels and grab a cab or Uber for the evening.
**Arrival and departure:** If you can arrive early – an hour or more before doors – you’ll have time to park, eat, and get oriented. The street parking is abundant at 6pm but fills up by 9pm, so consider arriving soon after doors open. For departure, note that buses stop running around 11 PM; after that, rideshare or taxis are your options. The venue is in a relatively quiet neighborhood, so noise ordinances aren’t tight, but people usually clear out by ~2 AM anyway.
What Makes This Venue Special
1919 N Howard Ave stands out in Tampa’s nightlife for several reasons. Architecturally and historically, it’s a living remnant of early 20th-century West Tampa. The building’s brick façade and vintage details connect to an era when cigar factories and community clubs lined this street. Notably, the spot was once part of West Tampa’s famed Sicilia Club and near the Cazin Theater – cultural pillars of Tampa’s Cuban community. It even witnessed some of Tampa’s more dramatic history (the block was the site of a notorious 1955 shooting that made headlines ). Today, however, the address symbolizes renewal: what was a boarded-up block for decades is now a local gathering place once again. The owner/business names even nod to this (“Mad Chiller” evokes both relaxation and a playful edge). The mix of coffeehouse by day and dance club by night is relatively unique in Tampa, attracting a creative, arts-friendly crowd.
The community impact also runs deep. Unlike convention-center concerts, events here are grassroots. Local promoters, underground DJs and niche-focused audiences use the space. That fosters a tight-knit feel: artists know the regulars by name, and nights often blend friends and fans into a single crowd. For Tampa’s scene, 1919 N Howard is beloved as a “hidden gem” – it’s where trendsetters check out new DJs before they break into bigger venues. Many locals speak fondly of catching breakout acts or genre experiments here. This intimacy is the opposite of a soulless arena – you might share a couch with half the audience between songs!
On the practical side, it’s special because it offers both casual comfort and high production. You can sip kava in slippers or shoot hoops on the pool table until it’s time to dance. Yet a few moments later the sound and light show competes with Tampa’s best clubs. That duality is frequently noted by visitors: Mad Chiller is “not just another nightclub,” it’s a community lounge that happens to book top DJs . In cultural terms, it fills a niche. Tampa-Bar HOP is great for mainstream bar-hopping, Ybor is wild/party, but upper North Tampa had lacked a hub for alternative music and Latinx-rooted café culture. 1919 N Howard marries those worlds. Plus, it’s won awards – its SoHo café sister was voted “Best Kava Bar” in Tampa Bay – hinting at the creativity behind the brand. Combined with its storied address and deep local roots , this venue feels like a piece of living Tampa heritage, even as it looks forward with every DJ set.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The venue has a single-level entrance (typically a ground-floor front). There is a short step up to enter, so wheelchair users may find it tricky; contacting the venue ahead of time is advised if you need assistance. Inside, the floors are largely flat, but space between furniture can be tight when full. Restrooms are on the main level (narrow entrance). If wheelchair access is needed, best to coordinate with management before arrival.
What to bring: Pack lightly. Backpacks and large bags may be disallowed at big events due to security. Small purses or drawstring bags are usually fine. Bring a valid photo ID (driver’s license or passport); even if it’s not an alcohol night, staff may check IDs for 18+ entry. As with any club, cash can be useful for cover charges or tips (though cards are generally accepted at the bar). You might want to bring earplugs, especially if you’re standing near the speakers during a bass-heavy show. Some guests also like a light jacket or hoodie, since indoor AC can make the lounge areas cooler (and it’s common to linger chatting after a set).
Age and Dress Code: Most shows are 18+. Always check the event listing: if it says 21+, only alcohol‐serving DJs nights will have that higher limit. There is no strict dress code; casual and smart-casual attire is normal (jeans and a nice top, or a T-shirt and jacket). Florida clubs are generally laid-back about shirts/pants (no sneakers ban, etc.), but they do enforce no offensive or overly revealing clothing. As always in nightlife settings, comfortable closed-toe shoes are recommended (flips-flops are usually frowned upon at busy clubs).
Arrival: Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before doors (especially for sold-out acts). This allows time to park and grab a drink before showtime. If you have VIP or will-call tickets, those windows open at door time, so early arrival avoids missing any of a performance. On very busy nights there might be a short line outside; the line usually moves fast since the crowd is generally mature and orderly. Once inside, walk around: getting to know the layout (know where the bathrooms and exits are) makes the night smoother.
Venue Policies: Out of respect for neighbors, the venue enforces a reasonable noise control after last call. Smoking (including e-cigarettes) is not allowed indoors by law – there may be a designated exterior area for smoking outside. No outside food or drink is permitted. Flash photography is often not allowed during shows (it can disturb the performers and other guests), but quick phone pictures are normally okay. If in doubt about any items (drone, selfie stick, etc.), ask security at the door. Mad Chiller is generally safe and friendly – aggression or rowdy behavior is dealt with quickly. The staff tends to be a mix of young creatives and professional bartenders; be polite and remember it’s a community spot for many.
Age Restrictions/Mistakes to Avoid: If you’re under 18, there really aren’t youth events here, so don’t bring minors. Also, remember not to park in residential driveways or on crosswalks – local neighborhoods enforce fines. Late-night backlash (like getting a DUI or trashing the area) is rare, but keep the area clean (trash cans are provided). One common tip: the venue can sell out. Don’t assume tickets at the door unless the promoters explicitly say “door tickets available.” Lastly, the neighborhood is quiet at night, so there’s not much to do if you miss the event – best to commit once you’ve arrived.
Insider Tips: If you arrive early during off-hours (like a weekend afternoon), you can order coffee, tea or waffles and test the atmosphere. Mad Chiller’s daytime menu (waffles, flatbreads, specialty coffees and kava drinks) is quite popular, so you might enjoy that while waiting. Some regulars say that wearing something a little creative or thematic can add to the fun (the crowd is definitely open to costumes on theme nights). Stay hydrated: the kava and caffeine choices are fun, but drinking plain water is wise when dancing a lot. Finally, chat with people – this spot is known for friendly locals. You’ll often meet the same faces at each show, and staff may introduce you to the local DJ or promoter. Those conversations can lead to learning about next events or even last-minute guest lists or ticket deals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capacity of the venue at 1919 N Howard Ave?
The old building covers about 9,120 square feet , which translates to a medium-sized club. In practice, 1919 N Howard Ave holds on the order of a few hundred people on the ground floor. There is no fixed seating – most patrons stand or lounge on sofas and benches. Compared to downtown theaters or stadiums it’s smaller, giving it an intimate feel.
Where can I buy tickets for shows at 1919 N Howard Ave?
Tickets are sold through event promoters or online ticketing platforms. Mad Chiller World doesn’t have a box office, so check the event’s official page or the promoter’s site. Popular shows often use online ticket sites (like Ticket Fairy or Eventbrite). It’s best to buy early – these events can sell out. Sometimes a limited number of tickets are held at the door if not sold out.
What are the parking options and costs?
Street parking is available on Howard Ave and side streets, usually free after business hours. There’s also a small lot behind the west side of the block (off Nebraska Ave). No large paid garage is attached, so most guests use street parking. After hours it's typically free; just watch for occasional meter or time-limit zones. If those fill up, try nearby residential streets or consider a rideshare drop-off in front.
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
The entrance is at ground level but does have a small step, and there is no elevator to an upper floor (only main level seating). Some wheelchair users find it challenging. Inside, the floor is flat, but space is tight when crowded. There is an accessible bathroom, but the single restroom entrance can be narrow. If you require disability access, it’s a good idea to contact the venue in advance to ensure accommodations.
What types of seating and viewing areas are available?
Most of the room is standing dance floor. Along the edges there are lounge areas with couches, chairs, and small tables. A pool table also occupies one corner. There are also bar stools at the counter. There is no reserved or numbered seating. For the best view, people often stand near the stage. The sofas and bar stools offer a quieter vantage. Both sides of the main floor typically allow a clear view of the stage/DJ.
What is the age restriction or dress code?
Age limits vary by event. In general, most nights are 18+. Some events that revolve around alcohol may be 21+ (always check the event listing). There is no formal dress code beyond smart-casual. Most people wear casual or nightclub attire (jeans/tee or simple dress). Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are wise for dancing. The venue does expect patrons to be reasonably dressed (no offensive or overly revealing outfits), but otherwise the vibe is relaxed.
What kind of drinks and food can I get inside?
Mad Chiller World serves a full bar with beers, cocktails and kava-based drinks along with coffees and teas. The menu is American comfort food – burgers, fries, flatbreads, waffles and snacks . They are open evenings (from about 4:15 PM) until late (around 1:45 AM on most weekdays ), so you can eat dinner or late night food there. If you like kava (a relaxing herbal beverage), they’re well-known for it. There’s no cover food outside the venue allowed, so plan to purchase at the bar.
Can I take photos or videos during events?
For most shows, small personal cameras and phones are permitted. Flash photography is usually discouraged during performances, so make sure your camera flash is off. Recording video is generally allowed for your own use, but professional camera setups are not permitted unless explicitly allowed. If it’s a private or special event, check with staff for rules. Always respect the performers’ wishes if “no filming” is mentioned in the event details.
How late is Mad Chiller World open?
Mad Chiller World stays open late into the night. According to its listings, on Sunday through Thursday it is open from the late afternoon (around 4:15 PM) until about 1:45 AM . Weekend hours are typically similar or a bit longer, allowing events to run into the early morning hours. If you plan to arrive late, expect the venue to still be open closing near 2 AM on most nights.
How do I get to 1919 N Howard Ave by public transit?
Tampa’s HART bus system serves the Howard Avenue corridor. The closest stop is on Howard Avenue at Green Street, served by Route 14 (Armenia/Howard Ave) . You can also catch buses that run on Nebraska Ave (just west of Howard) and walk a block. There is no light rail or streetcar to this part of town, so bus or rideshare are the main options. Check the HART schedules for late-night service, or plan to walk a bit from a nearby route if needed.
Are there restaurants and hotels nearby?
Yes. West Tampa has many casual dining options within a short walk: Cuban and Latin eateries, pizza and taco spots, and American grills. A few minutes’ drive (or a pleasant longer walk) will take you to other neighborhood restaurants for dinner before a show. Hotels are a bit farther: the closest lodging is in Ybor City (1–2 miles away) or downtown Tampa (2–3 miles). Many visitors stay in Ybor or downtown hotels and then drive or taxi to West Tampa. No major hotel is literally next door, so book your stay in Tampa in advance.
