TAMPA, Fla. – The culinary scene in Tampa received some prestigious recognition for the second consecutive year. Two restaurants in the city were awarded coveted Michelin stars during a chef-filled ceremony at the Edition hotel on Tampa’s Water Street.
Kosen, a Japanese omakase restaurant, and Ebbe, a contemporary fine dining establishment, both received one Michelin star, joining Rocca, Lilac, and Koya as the only Michelin-starred restaurants in Tampa. Additionally, Streetlight Taco in South Tampa received a Bib Gourmand, an award recognizing restaurants of good value.
Chef Ebbe Vollmer of Ebbe expressed surprise and joy over receiving a star, emphasizing the daily efforts to improve. Meanwhile, Chef Wei Chen of Kosen was elated about achieving his first Michelin star after 20 years in the industry.
Both Kosen and Ebbe are relatively new additions to Tampa’s dining landscape. Kosen, from the group behind the Bento franchise, opened in fall 2023, while Ebbe debuted in May 2023. The Michelin Guide’s recent recognition of these establishments reflects the growing culinary reputation of Tampa.
The 2024 Michelin Guide ceremony, held at the Edition hotel, showcased the city’s vibrant dining scene. The event featured a variety of culinary delights from notable restaurants like Lilac and Chug’s Diner. The recognition from Michelin adds to Tampa’s appeal as a culinary destination.
Michelin’s evaluation process involves anonymous inspections of restaurants based on factors like product quality, flavor mastery, and culinary technique. Achieving a Michelin star is a significant accomplishment for any restaurant and signals excellence in the industry.
Kosen and Ebbe were among the restaurants recommended as potential Michelin stars in February. The two establishments align with Michelin’s preference for high-end tasting menu restaurants, offering unique dining experiences at premium prices.
In their assessments, Michelin inspectors praised Kosen for its omakase program and Chef Chen’s precision in crafting exquisite dishes. Similarly, they commended Ebbe for Chef Vollmer’s clever and confident cooking, highlighting Scandinavian influences in the restaurant’s offerings.
While several Florida restaurants received Michelin stars, the ceremony also recognized excellence in sustainable gastronomy. The event marked the culmination of a three-year contract between Michelin and Florida tourism boards, underscoring the state’s culinary evolution.
The Michelin Guide’s partnership with Tampa, Orlando, and Miami has elevated Florida’s dining scene, reinforcing the state’s position as a culinary destination. The recognition from Michelin further showcases Tampa’s culinary prowess and highlights the city’s vibrant culinary culture.