Big news for food lovers: four standout restaurants in Pinellas County have officially joined the prestigious Florida MICHELIN Guide. During a recent ceremony in Orlando, MICHELIN unveiled the latest additions to its coveted list, which celebrates culinary excellence across the state. While some restaurants earned stars and Bib Gourmand awards, others were recognized in the MICHELIN Recommended category—still a major honor in the culinary world.
Among the newest Recommended restaurants are four local gems from St. Petersburg and Safety Harbor, each offering a unique and elevated dining experience. Here’s a closer look at the newest MICHELIN Guide additions in Pinellas County:
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Pinellas County is now on the MICHELIN Guide
IL Ritorno
449 Central Ave N #101, St. Petersburg
A mainstay in downtown St. Pete for over a decade, IL Ritorno continues to push boundaries under the creative vision of Chef David Benstock. The ambiance strikes a balance between industrial-chic and relaxed comfort, with exposed red brick and a friendly, knowledgeable staff. Expect dishes like duck tortellini topped with shaved foie gras or radish salads served like miniature garden beds—complete with edible soil and fences. The house-made pastas are a star attraction, and indulgent options like caviar doughnuts and Japanese wagyu make this one of the city’s most exciting fine dining spots. For a truly immersive experience, try the chef’s counter tasting menu.
Sushi Sho Rexley
214 2nd St. N., St. Petersburg
Just steps from St. Pete’s lively bar scene, Sushi Sho Rexley offers an intimate and unforgettable omakase experience. Chef Rexley Kwok brings precision, creativity, and warmth to every course. Diners can choose between a signature menu or a more focused, streamlined option—but either way, the nigiri takes center stage. Highlights include koji-fermented ora king salmon with whiskey barrel-aged soy, Hokkaido uni kissed with yuzu, and spot prawn paired with an oyster-fermented soy sauce and its fried twin. The journey ends with a perfect handroll and a golden dragon fruit cocktail for dessert.
Fortu
97 Central Ave, St. Petersburg
Located inside the historic Ponce de Leon Hotel, Fortu dazzles with its stylish interior and bold Pan-Asian flavors. The space buzzes with energy—thanks to sleek lighting, rich wood finishes, and striking mirrors—and the kitchen matches that energy with flair. Skip the raw bar and dive into spicy pork wontons topped with crispy garlic and chili crisp. Don’t miss the glazed carrots in kimchi butter, and if you’re in the mood to splurge, Fortu’s Japanese A5 wagyu is a serious contender for best beef in the city. Finish on a high note with a walnut and apple torte.
The Tides Market
305 Main St., Safety Harbor
Up in the cozy town of Safety Harbor, The Tides Market blends casual charm with top-tier seafood. Owned and operated by husband-and-wife duo Jon and Mary Kate Walker, this local favorite is part specialty market, part full-service restaurant. Southern comfort shines through on a menu that celebrates fresh, Gulf-inspired dishes. Try the oysters Bienville—broiled and topped with buttery breadcrumbs, house andouille, shrimp, and parmesan—or dive into a Po’boy stacked with crispy fried grouper. The all-day menu and weekend brunch keep the vibes relaxed and the seafood flowing.
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