Look up the meaning of “epicurean,” and you’ll find its roots in Epicurus, the ancient Greek thinker who championed a life of simplicity, friendship and quiet retreat. While he believed in the pursuit of pleasure, his idea of it was far from indulgence — true pleasure, Epicurus argued, came from tranquility and the absence of pain.
Lobby Bar
Photos By Seamus Payne
Step inside the Epicurean Hotel in Tampa, however, and you’ll find a different take on the philosophy — one where pleasure is celebrated in every thoughtfully curated detail. A collaboration between Mainsail Lodging & Development and the legendary Bern’s Steak House, the hotel is a feast for the senses, blending culinary artistry with luxurious comfort. From the wine crates repurposed into a striking lobby desk to the impeccable thread count of the sheets on the beds, every element is designed to elevate the experience. Whether headed for a weekend escape, a business retreat or a celebratory toast with friends, the Epicurean invites you to indulge — not in excess, but in life’s most flavorful moments.
Epicurean Theatre
Located in Tampa’s trendy Hyde Park Historic District, known to locals as SoHo, the boutique property is just steps away from the city’s picturesque waterfront and is within walking distance of top-rated restaurants, bars and nightclubs. It also holds a notable distinction: The Epicurean is the first newly constructed property in the United States to join the prestigious Autograph Collection® of Marriott International, Inc.
Chill Bros. Scoop Shop
Élevage Dining Room
Having recently undergone a $21 million expansion that includes the addition of 51 new guest rooms and suites (bringing the total to 188 rooms), each space is decorated to showcase local culinary heritage, right down to the butcher-block-style cabinetry and reclaimed wood bathroom doors designed by Tampa craftsmen.
You’ll find rooms inspired by one of four themes: “grow,” “create,” “imbibe” and “indulge.” Spacious suites offer a luxurious retreat with a king-sized bed, kitchenette and a separate living area featuring an elegant writing desk. An expansive bathroom, complete with a soaking tub and a large rain shower, beckon. My suite overlooked Bern’s Steak House — a constant reminder of the legendary dining experience just steps away. All rooms come with a fully stocked pantry boasting premium liquors, locally crafted beers, sparkling waters and a diverse selection of wine with suggested pantry pairings such as prosciutto, chocolate, sea salt caramels and chèvre cheese.
Don’t fill up on the room’s goodies, though — the hotel’s dining and cocktail options are worth exploring. Élevage SoHo Kitchen & Bar serves American fusion fare crafted by Executive Chef Jon Atanacio. For those craving a nightcap after dinner, Edge Rooftop Cocktail Lounge offers a variety of small plates, cheeses and charcuterie amid an elegant setting with lounge seating, dramatic lighting and eclectic art. The full restaurant menu is also available, making an alfresco sunset dinner a tempting option. There’s also the Lobby Bar, featuring a seasonally rotating menu that includes a pressed steak sandwich — an homage to Epicurean’s neighbor, Bern’s Steak House.
Throughout its 60-year history, Bern’s Steak House has built one of the world’s largest private wine collections — a selection guests can explore and purchase at Bern’s Fine Wines & Spirits, conveniently located in the hotel lobby. Guests will also find Chill Bros. Scoop Shop, a local favorite for artisanal ice cream. Everything from the toppings and candies to the sauces and waffle cones is made from scratch.
Whether you’re indulging in a spa treatment at Evangeline Spa, keeping up with your fitness routine or unwinding with a handcrafted cocktail, the Epicurean Hotel offers plenty of ways to relax. But one of its most distinctive features is the Epicurean Theatre — a space dedicated to culinary education and entertainment. Designed for food lovers, the intimate venue seats up to 40 guests and is outfitted with state-of-the-art Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances, making it the perfect setting for interactive cooking demonstrations, wine tastings and special events led by top chefs and industry experts. It’s not just a place to stay — it’s a place to learn, savor and get inspired.
Epicurus may have defined pleasure as tranquility and freedom from pain, but at the Epicurean Hotel, it’s found in curated experiences that nourish both body and soul. Whether it’s an expertly seared steak, a thoughtfully paired glass of wine or an unforgettable evening at the Epicurean Theatre, this is a place where indulgence is elevated and where everyone can embrace their own vision of much-needed “me” time.
Epicurean Hotel is located at 1207 S. Howard Ave., Tampa. For more information, call 855-829-2536 or visit epicureanhotel.com.
Edge Rooftop