What it is

A show-stopping 172-room gem with a tranquil spa, Michelin-starred chef, sceney pool and rooftop bar.

What it isn't

Aesthetically boring. The interiors were designed by famed New York design firm Roman & Williams.

What we think

Tampa misses out on a lot of the Florida fanfare reserved for its more famous sisters: Miami, Orlando, and Palm Beach. But it shouldn’t. And within this hotel, it’s definitely one of the coolest Florida destinations around. Guest rooms start at a whopping 406 square feet and were perfected by hotelier-to-the-stars Ian Schrager himself, with a contemplative color palette of sandy neutrals and cloud whites plus sumptuous luxuries: down pillows and quality linens, a marble-lined bath with a rainforest shower, Bose speaker, Nespresso machine, and even blackout drapes hiding behind the dreamy sheer ones. To feel like the king of Tampa, book the One Bedroom King Suite: it has a separate living room, deep soaking tub, and corner views of the cityscape from its expansive 851-square-foot floor plan.

You're here because

The spa is for adults only, and you could really use a break. Plus, it’s as high-tech as they come, with treatments like oxy-boost facials and collagen masks.

The Moment

Chef John Fraser already garnered a Michelin star, but ensconced under leafy palm fronds in a booth at Lilac, you think he deserves an entire galaxy. Even the dessert is intergalactic: a goat cheese cheesecake with peach-moscato granita and basil.

Restaurants & Bars

Lilac - Modern Mediterranean restaurant helmed by Michelin-starred chef, John Fraser

Azure - Featuring elevated food and beverage from Michelin-starred chef, John Fraser, our rooftop dining experience showcases fresh Greek cuisine

Pool Bar - The premier destination for a relaxing poolside retreat feature panoramic views over downtown Tampa

Market - The menu, inspired by the Italian coast, features fresh Neapolitan-style pizzas, charcuterie, and a selection of negronis and spritzes

Arts Club - Tableside cocktail service, light bites, and curated entertainment come together for an unforgettable experience in Arts Club

Punch Room - Brings forth a menu dedicated to flavors and spirits of the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico, the cradle to so many contributions in the evolution of punch.

Lobby Bar - Serves as the ideal place to meet friends old and new for a refreshing cocktail, crisp glass of wine or craft beer

Location

Just a block off the water of Hillsborough Bay in downtown Tampa, and across the street from Tampa Bay History Center, where exhibits include circa 1600s artifacts from nearby pirate shipwrecks.