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Lilac, Tampa, FL
Award-winning

Lilac

4.8 (754)
$50 and over
Mediterranean
500 Channelside Dr, Tampa, FL 33602

Make a reservation

2 people
11:30 PM
Booked 13 times today
Experiences are available.

About this restaurant

  • Good for special occasions
  • Fancy
  • Great for fine wines
Lilac, the Michelin-Starred Mediterranean restaurant helmed by the esteemed Chef John Fraser, redefines the art of dining. It features signature elements of Chef Fraser's Mediterranean cuisine mastery, explored through fresh Floridian ingredients.

Open for dinner Tuesday through Saturday, the dining room’s open concept, walnut flooring, and glowing pendant globes surround an eight-seat Christian Liaigre chef’s counter and a lively open kitchen, creating a convivial, yet elevated environment. Taking its cues from Fraser’s Greek heritage and his admiration of Turkish and French cuisines, Lilac’s menu is a balance of fresh, seasonal, and locally-sourced items with bold flavors and exquisite presentations.

Dining areas

Additional information

  • Award-winning
    1. MICHELIN 1 Star 2025
    2. MICHELIN 1 Star 2024
    3. MICHELIN 1 Star 2023
  • Neighborhood
    Tampa
  • Parking details
    Valet
  • Additional
    Beer, Chef's Table, Cocktails, Full Bar, Gluten-free Options, Non-Smoking, Vegan, Wheelchair Access, Wine

Experiences

  • DIM SUM MASTERCLASS x CHEF ANDREW YEO

    $250.00 per person

    Aug 9, 2025 only
    Experience the art of Dim Sum in an exclusive Masterclass by renowned, Michelin-Starred Chef Andrew Yeo. Chef Yeo will share the secrets behind these delicate bites in an intimate and hands-on masterclass. Drawing from his deep Singaporean roots and a distinguished career spanning Michelin-Starred kitchens across the globe — including London’s celebrated Hakkasan and Yauatcha — Chef Andrew blends tradition with innovation, infusing classic dim sum recipes with his contemporary take on techniques and ingredients. Set against the refined backdrop of Tampa’s own Michelin-Starred restaurant, Lilac, Chef Yeo will share his expert techniques, demonstrating the nuanced folding techniques that elevate each piece into a work of edible art. insights into the history, culture, and artistry of dim sum. Guests will then learn and practice essential folding techniques, preparing a variety of steamed, baked, and fried dim sum under his expert guidance. Following the hands-on session, savor a beautifully crafted lunch featuring the very creations prepared throughout the class, accompanied by stories that bring each dish to life. This is a unique opportunity for guests to elevate their culinary repertoire and immerse in the soul of Cantonese cuisine, all under the under the mentorship of a world-renowned Michelin-Starred chef. Refine your technique. Embrace tradition with innovation. Savor elegance. ABOUT CHEF YEO: Growing up in Singapore, Chef Andrew Yeo's earliest and most profound culinary education came from his grandmother's kitchen, where he learned the art and heart of traditional family recipes. This deep-rooted connection to his heritage ignited a lifelong passion for culinary exploration, leading him to hone his skills at Singapore's esteemed SHATEC Institute before embarking on a remarkable international journey. His formative years at The Ritz-Carlton Millenia Singapore provided invaluable mentorship and the opportunity to refine his technical skills, setting the stage for his global career. Chef Yeo then spent five years in London as the Global Executive Chef for Tao Group Hospitality's celebrated Cantonese brands, including the Michelin-Starred Hakkasan, and Yauatcha, where he proudly upheld traditional flavors while embracing diverse culinary influences. Prior to this influential role, he served as Executive Chef at The Miami Beach EDITION, overseeing the diverse culinary programs of Matador Room, Market, and Tropicale by Jean-Georges. His extensive tenure with The Ritz-Carlton Company saw him as Executive Chef at the Boston Commons and Amelia Island properties, and he played a crucial role in the successful culinary launches of multiple luxury properties. Now back in Singapore, Chef Yeo brings this rich tapestry of international experience and a deep appreciation for innovating within the authentic traditions of Cantonese cuisine, informed by his Singaporean heritage, to his consulting practice.
    DIM SUM MASTERCLASS x CHEF ANDREW YEO Photo

What 754 people are saying

Lilac reviews from people who’ve dined at this restaurant. Based on recent rating.

Overall ratings and reviews

Reviews can only be made by diners who have eaten at this restaurant

4.8
4.8 based on recent ratings
  • 4.8Food
  • 4.9Service
  • 4.8Ambience
  • 4.4Value

NoiseModerate

Loved For

  • Tampa / Central Florida West

    Best Service

  • Tampa / Central Florida West

    Mediterranean

  • Tampa

    Best Service

  • Tampa

    Romantic

Review summary

AI-generated from verified diner reviews
Lilac offers a refined dining experience with "exceptional food," "impeccable service," and a "beautiful atmosphere." Guests rave about the "thoughtfully curated wine pairings" and "beautifully plated" dishes. The sommelier and service team are "knowledgeable" and "passionate," making every visit feel "extraordinary." Perfect for special occasions and worth the splurge.
754 Reviews
  1. Irene

    New York City8 reviews

    5.0

    Dined 3 days ago

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 4
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Will return for the service and the decor. Location: 5 Ambience: 5 Food: 4 Service: 5 Picayune: milk bread is too big The food is good but could be better: ~ the milk bread is awesome ~ the freebies are all very good ~ spiced tuna: they’re chunks, could it be a bit smaller and more moistened (?) ~ salmon - is very good and tender, but a hair shy from Trump’s link @ Waterfront in Bronx, NYC ~ grouper - tasty, skinned cherry tomatoes are yummy The hot bread is delicious, but a little to large. It looks like a K2 that I've to conquer. Maybe making it half the size, less waste? The texture is croissant-ish, also reminds me of the breads from a bakery in Beijing - Zhongguancu Bakery 中关村茶点 (... after 60+ years and the Cultural Revolution, it has closed down and moved to a new location early this year…) Lilac means 紫丁香 in Chinese: purple clove. So I put on as much purple as I could but ... there isn't purple in sight (until 6pm). The entrance of the hotel Edition has fake Bougainvillea (why?!?) Large plants filled the narrow high ceiling lobby and the restaurant, like an oasis. Green is the theme of the restaurant: green tiles, green booths and chairs that feel like 1960s or 80s but with clean and modern twist, the large green plants (real) bring me to now, today. (I do have green dinning chairs and love them.) The restaurant is small: six tables for two, one long table for eight, and six half circular booths that could accommodate up to four. It's empty from 5 and three more tables filled by 6pm, when by accident or planned, they brought out beautiful snap dragon to tables: thank you. Many restaurants use Riedel (Santa Fe!) but their water glasses are the best: look ordinary but is extraordinarily delicate - I think I'd three glass of water. The matte tableware Sera by Piet Boon is nice. The female hostesses is very beautiful, who asked us what kind of occasion this dinner is. It draws a black - nothing really special, just a dinner. But I don't want to disappoin

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  2. John VIP

    Philadelphia County46 reviews

    5.0

    Dined 7 days ago

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Somehow the team at Lilac transformed the best dining experience in Tampa into an even-more-refined gastronomic adventure! Joining the team—Marina at the helm, Ryan with his wines, and Jeremie and his wait staff colleagues—for a meal is nothing short of pure joy; their regard for classic fine dining clearly distinguishes Lilac from its peers. As I’ve said before…Go! Go now! Go five minutes ago! You will never be disappointed; instead, like me, you’ll find yourself going time and time again!

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  3. Kevin VIP

    Greater Boston1 review

    5.0

    Dined on June 25, 2025

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Incredible dining experience topped off by Master Sommelier Andy McNamara leading us through a French wine journey. Spectacular!

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  4. karim

    Los Angeles2 reviews

    5.0

    Dined on June 25, 2025

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 4
    Last night’s sommelier dinner at Lilac was nothing short of extraordinary. From the moment we arrived, the experience was elevated — a seamless combination of warm hospitality, elegant ambiance, and world-class culinary artistry. The wine pairings were thoughtfully curated and flawlessly executed, each selection enhancing the flavors of the dishes in a way that felt both refined and adventurous. The sommelier was not only knowledgeable but passionate, sharing insights that made the evening feel personal and enriching. Every course was a masterpiece — beautifully plated, expertly balanced, and bursting with flavor. The attention to detail from the kitchen to the front-of-house was evident and made the experience feel incredibly special. Lilac is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates exceptional food, impeccable service, and an atmosphere that invites you to truly savor the moment.

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  5. Sonia

    Tampa / Central Florida West6 reviews

    5.0

    Dined on June 21, 2025

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Hands down the best experience! The food was exceptional. Each flavour composition was a treat for the tastebuds. Hors d'oeuvre were delicious. Chefs substituted liver pâté with cashew pâté for us halal eaters. We ordered asparagus and crispy tuna for appetizers. Our entrees were the Sole and Cacio de Pepe. We had the dark chocolate soufflé with pistachio ice cream. Superb. Everything was to die for. I don’t believe the gratuity was added to the total for two ppl and I miscalculated on my end thinking that it was. Double check that when you visit.

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  6. Dianna VIP

    New York City6 reviews

    5.0

    Dined on June 18, 2025

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Service was impeccable, food was amazing and the ambience is so beautiful.

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  7. Toni

    Tampa / Central Florida West1 review

    5.0

    Dined on June 18, 2025

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    The dining experience was amazing. Hostess and waiters are top experienced. Definitely you can taste the food that is on very high level, as the restaureant's Michelin Stars shows.

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  8. Amber VIP

    Tampa / Central Florida West1 review

    5.0

    Dined on June 12, 2025

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    A beautiful experience entirely between atmosphere, food, and service. Our servers, Josue and Ryan, were attentive and fun to talk to. The kitchen was impressive to watch, and clearly deserving of the Michelin. It is an expensive meal ($500 for two after 2 glasses of wine + tip) compared to some restaurants in the area that are arguably as impressive, but either way, Lilac is worth the visit.

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  9. David

    Raleigh / Durham / Chapel Hill1 review

    5.0

    Dined on June 11, 2025

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    The food was just outstanding, one course better than the last. It was beautifully presented by a great service team. It was our anniversary and they acknowledged that repeatedly and with very nice touches. It is an absolutely scrumptious meal. We will have to save it for once-in-a-lifetime, as it is quite expensive.

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  10. Cole VIP

    New York City6 reviews

    5.0

    Dined on June 10, 2025

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Top notch and experience here, couldn’t ask for much more when it comes to complete fine dining.

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FAQs

Lilac is rated 4.8 stars by 754 OpenTable diners.

Yes, you can generally book this restaurant by choosing the date, time and party size on OpenTable.

  1. Home
  2. United States
  3. Tampa / Central Florida West
  4. Tampa
  5. Tampa

Make a reservation

2 people
11:30 PM
Booked 13 times today
Experiences are available.
Google Map for Lilac

500 Channelside Dr, Tampa, FL 33602

Dining areas

Additional information

  • Award-winning
    1. MICHELIN 1 Star 2025
    2. MICHELIN 1 Star 2024
    3. MICHELIN 1 Star 2023
  • Neighborhood
    Tampa
  • Hours of operation
    Tue–Sat 5:00 pm–10:00 pm
  • Price
    $50 and over
  • Cuisines
    Mediterranean
  • Dining style
    Fine Dining
  • Dress code
    Smart Casual
  • Parking details
    Valet
  • Executive chef
    John Fraser
  • Additional
    Beer, Chef's Table, Cocktails, Full Bar, Gluten-free Options, Non-Smoking, Vegan, Wheelchair Access, Wine
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