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The Benchmark for Fine Dining in Tampa

LILAC IN THE PRESS

Discover the stories, accolades, and editorial features that distinguish Lilac among Tampa’s most exceptional dining destinations. Celebrated as one of the city’s most refined fine dining restaurants, Lilac continues to earn critical acclaim for its Michelin-recognized cuisine, polished hospitality, and distinctive modern Mediterranean vision - praised by leading publications and discerning critics alike.


 

12 TOP TAMPA AND ST. PETERSBURG RESTAURANTS FOR WINE

Wine Spectator (US) 31st March 2026: The wine program from beverage director Amy Racine and wine director Ryan McSwiggin is equally ambitious, featuring Bordeaux benchmarks such as Château Léoville Las Cases and Domaine de Chevalier to complement the cuisine.

TASTE YOUR WAY AROUND TAMPA BAY, FLORIDA'S EMERGING FOOD HOTSPOT

National Geographic (US) 24th January 2026: When The Tampa Edition opened in the Water Street district in 2022, it ushered in a new era of luxury for the city as Tampa Bay’s first five-star hotel. Here, chef John Fraser’s Lilac restaurant wows with tableside preparations of Florida red snapper, caviar service, and a champagne cart proffering flutes and effervescent cocktails to kick off the evening.

THE BEST THINGS FORBES TRAVEL GUIDE INSPECTORS ATE AND DRANK IN 2025

Forbes Travel Guide (US) 7th January 2026: “Pain lyonnaise — French milk bread — served hot and topped with sweet onions and thyme. I could have eaten 10 rolls. It didn’t even need butter.”

THESE ARE FLORIDA'S MICHELIN-STARRED RESTAURANTS

Bon Appétit (US) 11th May 2023: Receiving a star from Michelin is perhaps the most coveted accomplishment in the restaurant world. Florida’s culturally diverse food scene has drawn attention in the past few years as new residents from places like New York and New Jersey flocked southward.

MICHELIN GUIDE'S POINT OF VIEW - LILAC

Michelin Guide (US) 11th May 2023: Situated in the sleek and oh-so-stylish Edition hotel, this concept from John Fraser is a popular spot with in-demand reservations. Peruse the contemporary four-course prix-fixe with Mediterranean influences, Florida-focused ingredients and French techniques.

MICHELIN GUIDE FLORIDA 2023 SERVICE AWARD WINNER

Michelin Guide (US) 11th May 2023: Congratulations to General Manager Matthew Braden and the whole team at One MICHELIN Star Lilac, winner of the 2023 MICHELIN Guide Florida Service Award! Lilac elevates the exceptional dining experience with equally attentive service.