Epicurean Hotel Announces Opening

TAMPA, Fla. (Sept.13, 2012) – Tampa-based Mainsail Lodging & Development recently announced a target opening date of March 2014 for the Epicurean, a 137-room boutique hotel devoted to extraordinary culinary experiences. Scheduled to break ground in October of 2012 in the trendy Hyde Park historic district of South Tampa, Fla., the food-focused hotel will feature a large, state-of-the-art culinary classroom, high-end bistro, wine shop, rooftop lounge, full-service spa, and a retail and production bakery and pastry shop.  The Epicurean is being developed in collaboration with the legendary Bern’s Steak House, and will be the first newly constructed property in the United States to join the prestigious Autograph Collection® of Marriott International, Inc. (NYSE: MAR).

“This is a match made in heaven – or maybe heaven’s kitchen,” said Joe Collier, Mainsail Lodging & Development’s president. “The Epicurean is a perfect addition to Autograph Collection®, known for delivering exceptional  travel experiences. Combine this with Mainsail Lodging and the culinary artistry of Bern’s and you’ve got a finished product that is going to delight our South Tampa neighbors and dazzle travelers from around the world.”

Bern’s Steak House owner and partner in the Epicurean David Laxer adds, “Ten years ago when I thought about what could be the next generation of Bern’s and my father’s legacy, the Epicurean was a dream.  Now that dream is going to be shared with the World, and the standards of service that we have provided for 56 years will be carried on in our newest addition to Bern’s legendary story, the Epicurean.”

A few of the special experiences planned for the Epicurean include wine lockers for the guests, evening wine samplings, signature organic bath products, and luxury linens and pillows. The Epicurean will be home to the popular annual Bern’s WineFest, and will host a variety of cooking demonstrations and classes, wine exhibitions and more from renowned chefs and sommeliers from around the world, catering to both the beginner and experienced foodie.

According to Collier and Laxer, Urban Studio Architects of Tampa is overseeing the design of the project, which will include a streamlined, modern exterior that will enhance the architecture in the heart of the flourishing South Tampa neighborhood.  The interior design will be handled by Chicago-based Gettys Hospitality Design & Development, who will use their extensive industry experience to maximize space while enriching the guest experience. Financing for the Epicurean is being provided by Synovus Bank and Lindell Capital.