Barbara Lynch 
Although a tiki bar typically wouldn’t be included in a story on fine dining, the legendary Don the Beachcomber defies categorization. This isn’t your average kitschy cocktail haven. It’s a cultural icon that pioneered the tiki movement in America. Few names carry the mystique as Donn Beach, the godfather of “Tiki Culture.” In 1934, Donn … Read more
The journey of Rooster & the Till began modestly, with its origins as a 37-seat restaurant nestled in the burgeoning neighborhood of Seminole Heights, a stone’s throw from downtown Tampa. A decade has, since, passed and the landscape in that neighborhood has transformed remarkably. Today, Proper House Group, the visionary entity behind Rooster & the … Read more
In the vibrant tapestry of St. Petersburg’s culinary scene, a new symphony resonates at the Mahaffey Theater with the grand opening of Sonata Restaurant. Sonata is the combined vision of Bill Edwards and Chef Ted Dorsey, creating a multi-sensory experience where the culinary arts dance in harmony with the visual and performing arts. Bill Edwards, … Read more
Nestled between the bustling cities of Tampa and Orlando, Lakeland, a quaint town in Polk County, might not be the first place that comes to mind when one thinks of fine dining. Traditionally, Lakeland’s culinary reputation has been more closely associated with hearty BBQ joints and comfort food diners than upscale gastronomy. However, the emergence … Read more
While the Tampa Designated Market Area encompasses eleven counties, Hillsborough County stands out in the culinary scene with three Michelin One Star restaurants – Koya, Lilac and Rocca – all located in Tampa. This trend seems to be propelled by the substantial growth in Hillsborough, where distinct urban pockets like the Channel District, Midtown Tampa, … Read more
The culinary experiences available for distinguished palates, in the Tampa market, are flourishing, especially with the welcome addition of three recipients of a Michelin One-Star rating in the region. What is the significance of a Michelin star and how does it impact the evolving dining landscape? According to the Institute of Culinary Education, a Michelin … Read more
As Tampa Bay’s dining scene explodes, there are new restaurants opening weekly. With increased competition, the culinary stakes have been taken up a notch. Earlier this year, three of Tampa’s best – Koya, Lilac and Rocca – were honored with Michelin stars. With presence on this esteemed list, elevated dining is truly a reality for … Read more
Early 50 years ago, in Maitland, The Melting Pot first elevated dining by introducing fondue with shareable courses consisting of melted cheese, flambeed meats and chocolate fondue. Mark Johnston, a waiter working his way through college at The Melting Pot, saw the popularity of the concept. In 1979, he joined forces with his brothers, Mike … Read more
When Tampa locals think of Ybor City, vivid images of the cigar industry, roosters roaming the streets and a lively nightlife often come to mind. While fine dining might not be the first association with this historically rich Cuban neighborhood, hidden culinary gems like Flor Fina offer an unforgettable experience, nestled within Hotel Haya. Hotel … Read more
What happens when you blend the expertise of Jeff Gigante – a 20-plus year veteran of the dining and hospitality industry, Andrew Wright – chief executive officer of Franklin Street, a commercial real estate firm located in Tampa, and Joseph Guggino – a local lawyer and investor with an affinity to the restaurant industry? A … Read more
