TAMPA (BLOOM) – Last week, my girlfriend and I were fortunate enough to attend the soft opening of the Arts Club, located on the second floor of the Tampa Edition hotel. The evening promised to be an unforgettable experience, and it certainly delivered. From the moment we stepped into the venue, we were captivated by the sophisticated ambiance, the tantalizing culinary offerings, and the exceptional co*cktails.
A Warm Welcome and a Martini Masterclass
Upon entering the Arts Club, we were greeted by the General Manager, Chris Southwick, who shared the vision behind this luxurious new venue during a toast. “As we reimagined the Arts Club, our goal was to create a space where culture, creativity, cuisine, and community come together in Tampa Bay,” Chris explained. The club, envisioned by Hotelier Ian Schrager, is all about constantly redefining luxury and the lifestyle experience for guests.
One of the standout features of the evening was the Martini Cart, a unique offering that truly sets the Arts Club apart. We were introduced to Tural Hasanov, the Director of Beverage, who took us through the exciting process of crafting our own martinis. The experience begins with selecting your base liquor—vodka, gin, or vermouth—followed by choosing a garnish, such as lemon peel, blue cheese olives, or pickled onion. Finally, you decide on the method of preparation: shaken, stirred, or thrown.
Hasanov ask us if we wanted to try throwing our own drink. As someone new to the art of mixology, I was eager to learn, and my girlfriend, a skilled mixologist herself, took to it with ease. Tural’s enthusiasm and expertise made the experience not only educational but incredibly fun. We crafted martinis using ingredients we chose ourselves, resulting in drinks that were both delicious and beautifully balanced.
Culinary Delights
The culinary offerings at the Arts Club are nothing short of spectacular, thanks to the talented Executive Chef, Gihen Zitouni. The menu features vibrant flavors from the Far East, designed for communal enjoyment and sharing among friends and family. Chef Gihen described the culinary concept as a celebration of unity, diversity, and togetherness.
We sampled a variety of signature dishes, although they were just small plates. I greedily ate anything they put in front of us. Each dish was a testament to the quality and creativity that the Arts Club prides itself on. Chef Gihen emphasized the importance of using seasonal produce from Florida and high-quality products from Japan, such as A5 wagyu from Kagoshima.
A Night of Jazz and Elegance
The Arts Club exudes the charm of a classic jazz club, with its black upholstery and red lighting creating an intimate and elegant atmosphere. The club’s design and decor perfectly complement the high-end food and beverage program. We were big fans.
The main seating area features plush black leather sofas and armchairs, arranged in cozy clusters that invite conversation and relaxation. The tables are adorned with fresh floral arrangements, adding a touch of natural elegance to the dark, moody decor. The black upholstery and dim lighting create an intimate, almost mysterious ambiance, perfect for a night of sophisticated entertainment.
In the adjoining room, the decor takes on a more vibrant tone with deep red lighting and a series of hanging disco balls that reflect the light in mesmerizing patterns. The red velvet couches and draped curtains add a luxurious touch, reminiscent of a high-end jazz lounge. This area is ideal for enjoying live music performances, which add an extra layer of entertainment to the evening.
The bar area is equally impressive, with a sleek design featuring a backlit wall showcasing an extensive selection of spirits. The golden hues from the bar lights cast a warm glow, making it an inviting spot to enjoy one of the club’s expertly crafted co*cktails. The seating at the bar is comfortable, with high-backed stools that provide a perfect perch for watching the bartenders in action.
Looking Ahead
The Arts Club promises to keep evolving and offering new and exciting experiences for its guests. Tural hinted at upcoming seasonal and limited-edition martinis, while Chef Gihen spoke about future collaborations with chefs from Miami, California, and New York to create special master chef’s dinner experiences.
As the evening came to a close, my girlfriend and I couldn’t stop talking about how much we enjoyed the night. From learning to throw our own martinis to savoring exquisite dishes, the Arts Club provided an evening of luxury and delight that we won’t soon forget.
If you’re looking for a place where culture, creativity, cuisine, and community come together in perfect harmony, the Arts Club at the Tampa Edition hotel is the place to be. We can’t wait to return and see what new experiences await us.
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