Currently, the Tampa Bay area boasts four Michelin stars with Tampa restaurants Koya, Rocca, Kōsen, and Ebbe, plus several Bib Gourmands and recommendations.
Lilac in Tampa lost its star this year.
Since the guide’s entrance into Florida, Michelin has collaborated with several tourism boards across the state, including Visit Tampa Bay and Visit St. Pete-Clearwater.
As a part of its two-year agreement with Michelin, Visit St. Pete Clearwater gives the guide $90,000 per year from its tourist development tax, which is paid for by the overnight stays of visitors.
“Florida continues to raise the bar with its emerging culinary talent, international influences and the palpable passion of its local restaurant communities,” said Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the MICHELIN Guides, last year. “Over the past three years, we’ve seen the Florida selection grow and strengthen as our Inspectors shined a spotlight on their discoveries. We look forward to exploring these new destinations and highlighting the excellence of their local restaurant scene.”
Head to Michelin’s website for more information about Tampa Bay’s starred restaurants and more.
