Michelin Guide adds 3 Tampa restaurants to Florida selection

Three new Tampa restaurants were added to Florida’s Michelin Guide on Monday, roughly a month ahead of the guide’s 2023 star reveal.

Ponte, Lilac and Noble Rice were recognized by the guide’s inspectors and are highlighted as new selections to the 2023 guide “to help food lovers enjoy these new discoveries before the full selection is revealed,” according to a news release.

The guide also recognized eight new restaurants in Orlando. Eight Miami additions were announced in February.

The selection is meant to highlight the restaurants in question but doesn’t necessarily mean the eateries will snag a star or a Bib Gourmand distinction.

Last year marked the debut of the coveted ratings guide in Florida, with restaurants in Miami, Tampa and Orlando eligible to receive stars for the first time. In a major upset to Tampa’s culinary community, not a single restaurant snagged a star. Restaurants in Orlando and Miami collectively nabbed a total of 15.

Rooster & The Till, Rocca and Ichicoro Ramen all received the guide’s Bib Gourmand selection, which the guide bestows to restaurants “where one can have two courses and a glass of wine or dessert for under $49.”

Though the James Beard Awards are considered by many the Oscars of the culinary world, the Michelin Guide is arguably the most well-known and respected restaurant ratings system. Tampa Bay chefs and restaurants were once again absent in this year’s Beard selections, and the Michelin Guide’s foray into Florida has many local chefs hopeful for a star and more widespread recognition.

The full 2023 Florida guide will be announced at an invite-only ceremony on May 11 at LoanDepot Park in Miami.