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Chef behind Michelin-starred restaurant opening new concept at The Vinoy

interior of a dining area with lights above
Rendering via Rockwell Group

The historic Vinoy Resort and Golf Club in St. Petersburg has announced an exciting partnership with award-winning Chef Lee Wolen and Boka Restaurant Group for its upcoming restaurant, Elliott Aster.

Chef Wolen, who is behind Michelin-starred Boka, popular Italian spot Alla Vita, and neighborhood favorite GG’s Chicken Shop in Chicago, brings his world-class expertise to this new venture. Having honed his craft at renowned restaurants such as El Bulli in Spain, Eleven Madison Park in New York City, and Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons in Oxford, Wolen is no stranger to the fine dining scene. His return to Florida, following a successful stint at Four Seasons Palm Beach, marks a special moment in his career.

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“I am truly honored to be opening a restaurant in St. Pete, a place that holds a special place in my heart,” said Wolen. “Having stayed at The Vinoy with my family and experiencing its rich history and charm, it feels like the perfect setting to create something truly special. I can’t wait to bring our culinary vision to life in such an iconic destination.”

rendering of a large dining area with a wrap around bar
Rendering via Rockwell Group

Elliott Aster will be the hottest new restaurant in St. Pete

Elliott Aster promises to be a vibrant addition to St. Petersburg’s culinary landscape. The restaurant will offer refined dinners in an elegant dining room, with aperitivos and cocktails available on the waterfront patio. Chef Wolen’s sophisticated menu will feature carefully sourced ingredients, offering options like 45-day dry-aged prime bone-in ribeye, decadent pastas such as King Crab Tagliatelle, and seafood dishes like Whole Roasted Blue Prawns “Fra Diavolo.”

Lighter fare will include Prime Tenderloin Beef Carpaccio and an Endive Salad with Baby Beets, Florida Citrus, and Lemon Poppyseed Vinaigrette. At the heart of the dining room, an antipasti bar will serve freshly prepared Italian meats, whipped ricotta, marinated peppers, and more.

“Elliott Aster will bring a first-of-its-kind dining experience to both our resort and the downtown St. Petersburg community,” said Vanessa Williams, general manager of The Vinoy Resort and Golf Club. “Boka Restaurant Group’s vision and Chef Wolen’s remarkable talent perfectly complement our dedication to exceptional hospitality. We look forward to offering both locals and visitors something truly special.”

exterior rendering of a veranda and dining area with greenery
Rendering via Rockwell Group

The meaning behind the new culinary hub’s name

Named for the lavender wildflower native to Florida and in honor of Gene Elliott, who named The Vinoy after its owner Aymer Vinoy Laughner, Elliott Aster aims to become both a local favorite and a must-visit destination for travelers. The restaurant’s design will be crafted by the renowned Rockwell Group, whose portfolio includes iconic hospitality projects like TAO, Nobu, and Jaleo by José Andrés. With this new venture, Elliott Aster will not only elevate The Vinoy’s culinary offerings but also contribute to the vibrant dining scene of St. Petersburg.

Follow the restaurant on Instagram for updates.

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