We’ve said it once, we’ll say it again. Welcome to “Michelin Bay.”
Tampa Bay is swiftly becoming a culinary haven, with a burgeoning food scene that earned even more Michelin recognition last week. From delectable Italian dishes to vibrant Mediterranean flavors, Tampa is cookin’ up an impressive lineup of top-notch eateries.
Some of our top food spots have earned stars and bibs from the prestigious guide
. Here’s a refresher on what the two top awards mean:
- A Michelin star represents exceptional quality + is awarded to establishments that showcase culinary excellence.
- The Bib Gourmand distinction recognizes restaurants that offer value and quality fare, making them a favorite among foodies.
We broke down each spot by price point for your next date night:
Where delicious meets budget ($$)
Rocca
| 323 W. Palm Ave. | Italian and contemporary
- One Michelin star
- Close your eyes + imagine grandma just served you her generation-old homemade pasta — that’s what all the dishes are like at Rocca. And if you have room for dessert, the burnt cheesecake is top tier.
Gorkhali Kitchen
| 10044 Cross Creek Blvd. | Nepali and Indian
- Bib Gourmand
- Pipin’ hot — That’s how the samosa and Himalayan Jimbu chicken come out. Pro tip: order some garlic naan to share.
Psomi
| 701 N. Howard Ave. | Greek
- Bib Gourmand
- Teleport to Greece and try the decadent loukoumades (greek doughnuts).
Rooster & the Till
| 6500 N. Florida Ave. | International
- Bib Gourmand
- Run, don’t walk to devour the Till’s perfectly cooked quail alongside tamale pasta and a sweet corn sauce.
Price is no object ($$$$)
Lilac
| 500 Channelside Dr. | Mediterranean cuisine and contemporary
- One Michelin star
- Get the Ora King salmon and if you’re looking for a bit of booze, opt for the tableside champagne cocktail cart.
Koya
| 807 W. Platt St. | Japanese and American fusion
- One Michelin star
- It’s all about the sushi, baby. Order the golden dragon roll with golden egg sauce to tie it together.