Local foodies and explorers alike will thoroughly enjoy what’s to come from South Tampa’s Epicurean Hotel. The award-winning hotel announced recently it’s undergoing a $21 million expansion project, which will include 51 new guest rooms and suites, a private lobby, meeting space, and rooftop terrace. The four-story structure will also incorporate two restored historic apartment buildings across the street and add two more floors of parking.

“Together, Bern’s Steak House, Haven and Epicurean Hotel have turned South Howard into a true culinary destination, and this new addition will elevate our streetscape to match it,” said Joe Collier, President and Founder, Mainsail Lodging & Development in a press release. “As a market leader in Tampa, demand for our rooms has consistently outstripped our supply, particularly for suite accommodations. This expansion will add another 11 high-demand suites to our inventory.”

Collier calls this Epicurean’s “second course”. Public areas will feature contrasting warm woods, cool concrete, and stainless steel. Guests will be greeted with an original artwork installation of wine and champagne corks and a contemporary liquor bottle chandelier.

The new accommodations will be 31 standard king rooms, eight deluxe king rooms, three two-room suites, and one junior suite. Eight historical apartments will be converted into suites with separate living and dining areas and other features like private balconies. Meeting spaces will add a 794-sq.-ft. room for up to 50 guests and another 590-sq. ft. room for up to 39 guests. A rooftop terrace is an option for private events.

Guests at the Epicurean will have full access to all the amenities in both buildings including the Epicurean Theatre, Élevage SoHo Kitchen & Bar, EDGE Rooftop Cocktail Lounge, and Bern’s Fine Wines & Spirits.

The expansion is scheduled to be completed summer 2023 so it’ll be a while before we all can get our IG photo shoots set.