Excited to share the behind the scenes experience from my recent visit to the Epicurean Hotel, Autograph Collection where I received a complimentary stay. I coordinated a fashion photoshoot for an upcoming Valentine’s/Galentine’s Day instagram post where we also focused on spring fashion trends for 2020. My friend @thelovelyflamingo Jill DiGioia and I enjoyed exploring the hotel and utilizing their charming backdrops. Seriously laughed the entire time and have incredible fashion images thanks to personal brand photographer @kimberlysromano Kimberly Romano. We couldn’t hit every note worthy spot within the hotel, but I’ll share my highlights.
We had our own little party in this 137 room boutique hotel. It’s located in the Hyde Park historic district of South Tampa known as SoHo and just across the street from the landmark Bern’s Steak House. It’s down the road from Bayshore Boulevard, the longest continuous sidewalk in the world. Just a little fun fact for you!
Highlight One
The Lobby Bar has a rustic feel with the mix of seating of industrial high tops, leather couches and shared bar seating. The Lobby Bar menu features chef-inspired plates, craft cocktails, well-made classics, all while highlighting creative signature offerings. I’ve heard the Lobby Bar menu pays homage to Bern’s pressed steak sandwich, a nod to the Epicurean’s legendary neighbor, Bern’s Steak House. I didn’t have time to try it, but will definitely do so the next time I stop by.
Highlight Two
Located in the lobby of the hotel, Bern’s Fine Wines & Spirits carries rare wines and spirits. Over the last 60 years Bern’s Steak House has accumulated one of the largest private collections of wines in the world. If you haven’t been to Bern’s Steak House, I highly recommend going. It’s such a unique experience all the way from the kitchen and wine cellar tour they provide to the upstairs dessert room. I’ve been to Napa a few times and have to admit, it’s impressive to see the names of labels and vineyards of boutique wineries that you can’t find in most retail stores. One of my all time favorite experiences was visiting Cade in Napa/Howell Mountain. We overlooked an infinity pool and saw endless evergreen trees. While browsing Bern’s Fine Wines & Spirits, I noticed they carry their label and brought back the nostalgia of the view and the experience.
Highlight Three
EDGE Rooftop Cocktail Lounge is a chic rooftop bar that offers craft cocktails and has an elevated style. If you need a bite to eat, they have you covered with small plates, artisan cheeses and charcuterie. Oh, did I mention the sunset views in the evenings! You’ll see the beautiful skyline below! The trendy lounge seating, swanky lighting and colorful artwork makes this the coolest place to be. You’ll want to bring a friend, the more the merrier. Cheers! Don’t forget to dress the part and show off your spring fashion trends for 2020.
Highlight Four
If sweets are more your thing, let me tell you about Little Midway. It’s connected to the Epicurean hotel and offers a range of goodies from cupcakes, cookies, pastries and ice cream too. My vanilla cupcake did not disappoint! Their bright sign says it all “Life is better with sprinkles” and I agree!
Highlight Five
The pool deck offers a spacious seating area and colorful lounge furniture. The perfect place to snap some fantastic pics and show off your spring fashion!
The Autograph Collection is a collection of independent upper-upscale to luxury hotels within the Bonvoy Marriott International portfolio of brands. These hotels all have a unique quality, attribute or style that sets them apart. Bonvoy is the name of Marriott’s loyalty program, which brought together Marriott Rewards, Ritz-Carlton Rewards, and Starwood Preferred Guest. Marriott Bonvoy functions like most hotel loyalty programs where you earn the majority of your points by staying at Marriott properties or through credit card spending, and you redeem points for free hotel nights. The Marriott brand includes the following hotel chains such as, The Ritz-Carlton, St. Regis, W Hotels, EDITION HOTELS, JW Marriott, The Luxury Collection, Marriott Hotels, Westin Hotels & Resorts, Le Meridien, Renaissance Hotels, Sheraton Hotels & Resorts, Delta Hotels by Marriott and Marriott Executive Apartments to name a few.
You’ll always have an unforgettable time and make memories when staying at an Autograph Collection Hotel.
Xoxo,
Jenn Truman @jtstjtst11