The region’s list of MICHELIN-recognized destinations just grew by double digits. The MICHELIN Guide unveiled its new Florida list today, covering the entire state, and 10 Tampa Bay Area favorites were added to the list.
Nine of the newcomers earned “Recommended” status, with one earning Bib Gourmand. Tampa and St. Pete both stand out on the list, but the big winner is Sarasota, which earned some much-deserved recognition in being added to the guide. No Tampa Bay Area restaurants earned MICHELIN stars, though four restaurants (Kōsen, Koya, Rocca, and Ebbe) retained their one-star status, while Lilac lost its one-star recognition, but did earn Recommended status. One restaurant earned a Green Star and one Tampa chef won the Michelin Young Chef Award, more on both below.
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New MICHELIN Recommended restaurants in Tampa Bay and how to try them
Bar Terroir
3636 Henderson Blvd, Tampa
A favorite of our team, the French restaurant, or “French-ish wine bistro” as they call themselves, is a date night favorite and well deserving of the honor. In addition to French cooking, craft cocktails and great wine, their burger has earned local acclaim, too. It’s the second big honor for the restaurant since its summer 2025 opening.
Reservations here
The Brisket Shoppe
3501 N Armenia Ave, Tampa
Once considered one of Tampa’s best-kept secrets, the news on this barbecue restaurant was already than out locally. Now, the destination for smoked meats and casual vibes is hitting the national radar. The BBQ and sides are served Austin-style and available for takeout.
Info and online ordering here
Elliott Aster
501 5th Ave NE, St. Pete
The long-awaited fine dining destination at The Vinoy Resort debuted last summer, and it has been a hit from day one. From the decor and the service to the meticulously crafted menu, Elliott Aster had Michelin status written all over it from its first dinner service.
Reservations here
Fat Beet Farm Kitchen and Bakery
13830 W Hillsborough Ave, Tampa
The only local restaurant on an actual farm to make the list, Fat Beet Farm is a local sensation among those in the know. The breakfast and lunch spot, on the border of Pinellas County, isn’t even farm-to-table. In this case, they brought the table to the farm.
Hours and menu here
Focaccia Sandwich + Bakery
2300 Bee Ridge Rd, Sarasota
Another addition to the list that is “simple” in its definition, yet anything-but when it comes to the end product. Their artisan sandwiches are the stars, made on fresh-baked focaccia . Their goal is to bring people joy through bread, and there’s nothing that makes us happier than bread.
Hours and menu here
In Between Days
2340 1st Ave S, St. Pete
A personal favorite, I’m thrilled to see In Between Days earn recognition like this. A Japanese style listening room and sake bar, it was the first bar in the region to feature an in-house sake sommelier. Their small plates and rotating pop-ups make the cozy, upbeat spot even more enjoyable for a night out. It will be hard to get a table for a while after this.
Reservations here
Kinjo
224 S Boulevard, Tampa
Tampa’s only wafu-Italian restaurant hasn’t even been open a full year, and already it’s making waves. With “unexpected, yet thoughtful” dishes, Kinjo honors the traditions of both Italian and Japanese cuisine in a creative fusion unlike anything else in the area.
Reservations here
Nineteen61
215 E Main St, Lakeland
The only Latin-American addition to the list for the area, Nineteen61 is more than worth the drive to Lakeland. This is upscale fare with the best of Latin fine dining cuisine. Surf stars next to turf with heavy Peruvian and Caribbean influence. Don’t skip the rooftop bar when you visit.
Reservations here
Bib Gourmand
Lucky 8
1812 S Osprey Ave, Sarasota
You don’t have to fly to New Orleans to get a real taste of Louisiana, thanks to Lucky 8. The relaxed Sarasota star is a po-boy paradise, famous for its southern hospitality and staples like boudin balls, chicken and sausage gumbo, and pimento cheese, among plenty more. Reservations aren’t currently available, but you can order online.
Hours and menu here
Additional honors
Fat Beet Farm Kitchen and Bakery – Green Star
“Fat Beet Farm Kitchen and Bakery (Tampa) is highlighted by the Green Star for its inspiring and committed vision for the future of gastronomy. The Green Star recognizes restaurants that have impressed Inspectors through their approach. By shaping a community of innovative establishments driven to pursue progress in the role of restaurants, the Green Star fosters dialogue and collaboration, encouraging them to inspire and evolve together.
Jada Vidal, Kinjo – Michelin Young Chef Award
Four Pinellas County restaurants retained their Recommended designation:
- Fortu (St. Pete) – Executive Chef Nathan Howey
- IL Ritorno (St. Pete) – Executive Chef David Benstock
- Sushi Sho Rexley (St. Pete) – Master Sushi Chef Rexley Kwok
- The Tides Market (Safety Harbor) – Chef Jon Walker
