TAMPA, FL – Tampa EDITION hotel’s Lilac has been stripped of its one-star Michelin by the growing dining guide. Once again it would appear the Tampa Bay area is being snubbed. It is well-documented that the hardest part of a Michelin star is actually maintaining one after your receive it.

This year’s announcement had a virtual element to it and parties were held around the state instead of at a fancy soiree. It’s a sign of the times I guess? Tampa has grown fast throughout the pandemic and seems to be hitting a wall now as the economy slows down and unemployment begins to rise in Florida. There is certainly still potential and growth in the area. Rising food and labor costs (not to even mention gasoline) are probably not helping as well.

There were new Michelin Gourmand selections announced, according to Creative Loafing Tampa, including Bar Terroir, The Briskette Shop, Fat Beet Farm and Kitchen and Bakery, and Kinjo.

To be honest I don’t view this as a bad thing, but maybe some time for reflection on where Tampa’s restaurant scene has evolved to. The fine dining element is still pretty obtuse for the area and the quality of restaurants is not matching Miami or Orlando in quality. There is work to do.

About me: Hello my name is Carlos Hernandez and I am a writer and journalist with over 15 years of experience. I write the food and travel blog Carlos Eats (https://www.carloseats.com) and also contribute to several newspapers and magazines on numerous topics.