Unforgettable Steak-Cation: A Kid-Free Romantic Getaway at The Epicurean Hotel, Tampa

Special thanks to Epicurean Hotel for enhancing our spa treatments and brunch experience. All opinions expressed are genuinely my own.

In the whirlwind of daily life, amidst the demands of work, family, and endless responsibilities, it’s easy for couples to lose sight of their own connection. My husband, Jon, and I recently rediscovered the magic of togetherness during an exquisite 24-hour kid-free retreat: our “Steak-Cation” Weekend Getaway at the luxurious Epicurean Hotel in Tampa, Florida. This meticulously planned escape was more than just a vacation; it was an intentional effort to reconnect, celebrate, and indulge in experiences that nourish the soul.

For Jon’s significant birthday at the end of February, I knew an experiential gift would be far more cherished than any material item. We’ve always favored experiences, and the idea of a romantic, child-free weekend seemed like the perfect way to honor his special day and rejuvenate our bond. It had been quite some time since our last overnight getaway, a quick Orlando trip back in 2015. While we enjoyed an extended kid-free bliss in Jamaica last summer, a shorter, local escape was precisely what we needed to tide us over until our next grand adventure.

As busy parents navigating the beautiful chaos of young children, it’s a universal truth that couples can sometimes drift apart amidst the daily grind. Recognizing this isn’t a flaw, but rather an opportunity. These precious moments away, even for just a day, serve as powerful reminders to prioritize our relationship, fostering intimacy and rekindling the spark that started it all. Our Steak-Cation was designed to do just that – offering a luxurious pause from parenthood and a deep dive into culinary and spa delights.

The Journey to Tampa: Anticipation and Culinary Dreams

Tampa, a vibrant city on Florida’s Gulf Coast, is a mere hour and a half drive from Orlando, making it an ideal destination for a quick yet impactful escape. My goal was to maximize our limited time away, immersing ourselves in activities and flavors we wouldn’t typically enjoy. A major draw for this trip was a return visit to the legendary Bern’s Steak House. Our last experience there in 2017, while commendable in its accommodation of my dairy-free diet at the time, left me dreaming of a future visit where I could savor every rich, creamy, dairy-laden delight.

The drive along the I-4 corridor from Orlando to Tampa can often be challenging, and our journey was no exception, punctuated by unexpected traffic delays. However, with a 2 PM spa treatment awaiting us, our spirits remained high. We embraced the journey, making the most of the time by chatting and building anticipation for the pampering ahead. Upon arriving in Tampa, our first priority was a swift, satisfying lunch.

A Quick, Kid-Free Culinary Start at BarTaco

We opted for BarTaco, a trendy eatery I’d heard rave reviews about, nestled in the chic Hyde Park area, just minutes from the Epicurean Hotel. It certainly lived up to the hype! The lively atmosphere, upbeat music, and the simple pleasure of enjoying a margarita with lunch – without any tiny hands reaching for our food – was an immediate indulgence. It was a perfect, flavorful start to our getaway, setting a relaxed and joyful tone for the hours to come.

Indulgence and Rejuvenation at Spa Evangeline

After our delightful lunch, a short drive brought us to the Epicurean Hotel. Our check-in was uniquely delightful: guests are offered a complimentary glass of wine, setting the tone for the hotel’s epicurean theme. I naturally gravitated towards a crisp Chardonnay, while Jon selected a robust Pinot Noir. With our spirits already lifted, we were then guided to Spa Evangeline, a sanctuary designed to relax the soul and refresh the spirit through beauty treatments infused with the hotel’s signature culinary flavors.

A Blissful Couples Spa Experience

I had pre-arranged the ultimate pampering package: a romantic Couples Champagne Bubble Bath, followed by a rejuvenating 50-minute couples massage. What better way to commence a romantic getaway than by indulging in shared relaxation? This delightful start allowed us to shed the stresses of daily life and fully embrace the tranquility of the moment. We were individually escorted to the locker rooms, then reunited in the serene relaxation room, where we were served chilled champagne to enjoy during our bath.

The Champagne Bubble Bath itself was a luxurious sensory experience. The effervescent bubbles, the warm water, and the quiet intimacy of the moment, enhanced by a glass of sparkling wine, created an unparalleled sense of calm. Once the bath concluded, we dried off and transitioned seamlessly to our couples massage. Both our massage therapists were exceptional, expertly melting away tension and leaving us feeling utterly refreshed and revitalized. We were so enamored with the bubble bath experience that we purchased a bottle of the Farm House Fresh Whoopie®! Body Wash to recreate a touch of that spa bliss in our own jetted tub at home.

Luxury and Culinary Charm at The Epicurean Hotel

Post-spa, feeling completely renewed, we collected our room keys (and perhaps another celebratory glass of wine from the lobby) and headed to our exquisitely appointed room. The Epicurean Hotel boasts 137 guest rooms and suites, each a testament to urban chic blended with luxurious comfort. The design pays homage to the area’s rich culinary heritage, featuring bespoke elements like butcher-block-style cabinetry and beautifully reclaimed wood bathroom barn doors, crafted by local artisans. As a dedicated food blogger myself, I particularly admired the tastefully curated food photography adorning the walls, which resonated deeply with my passion.

Thoughtful Amenities for the Modern Traveler

Our guest room was a haven of modern conveniences and thoughtful touches. Complimentary wireless internet kept us connected, while the flat-screen HDTV offered entertainment. The luxurious bath products, a single-serve brewing system for gourmet coffee and café-style beverages, an in-room laptop safe, and refreshing rain shower heads all contributed to a seamless and comfortable stay. However, what truly set the Epicurean Hotel apart was its unique in-room personal artisan pantry.

This “mini-bar” elevated the concept entirely, stocked with premium liquors, locally crafted beers, sparkling waters like Perrier and San Pellegrino, and a diverse selection of five half-bottle varietals of wine. Each wine came with suggested pantry pairings, such as delectable prosciutto, artisanal chocolate, sea salt caramels, and chévre cheese. It was, without a doubt, the ultimate mini-bar experience for any wine and food enthusiast, transforming the simple act of a room snack into a gourmet delight.

Relaxing by the Pool and Securing Our Dinner Plans

After settling into our exquisite room, we took advantage of the beautiful weather and spent a blissful hour lounging by the hotel’s inviting pool. It was the perfect interlude before our highly anticipated dinner. Securing a reservation at Bern’s Steak House can be notoriously challenging, often requiring bookings three months in advance, with slots filling up almost instantly. This is where the “Steak-Cation” package at the Epicurean Hotel truly shines, offering a coveted perk: a guaranteed 7 PM or 8 PM reservation at Bern’s. While only the 8 PM slot was available when I booked, it was a far more desirable time than the 9:30 PM options I had found online independently, underscoring the value of this exclusive package.

Pre-Dinner Delights at Haven – The Ultimate Bourbon Bar

Around 6 PM, we made our way to Haven, the newest addition to the esteemed Bern’s family of restaurants. Haven is a unique establishment, specializing in the concepts of crafted, cultured, and cellared offerings. Its menu features fresh, approachable cuisine, complemented by an extensive beverage program that includes a vast wine list, craft beers, house-made sodas, and its crown jewel: a selection of over 500 bourbons! Jon, having recently developed a keen interest in bourbon, was in absolute heaven, or as I teasingly called it, “Haven.” This was the perfect prelude to our main culinary event.

Beyond its impressive bourbon collection, Haven also boasts 125 types of cheese, a diverse array of charcuterie, and more than 40 wines available by the glass. Despite arriving without a reservation, we were fortunate to find seats at the bar, where we were greeted by an exceptionally knowledgeable and friendly bartender. He expertly guided Jon through the overwhelming bourbon selection, helping him choose the perfect pre-dinner pour.

Our timing was impeccable, as we arrived during Happy Hour. This allowed us to enjoy a chef’s selection of three exquisite cheeses and three varieties of charcuterie for an incredible price of just $12. Jon also indulged in a few fresh oysters, while I savored a delicious glass of red wine, priced at only $5. Haven’s convenient location, just one block from Bern’s Steak House, made for a pleasant and easy stroll, allowing us to walk off our appetizers and build anticipation for the legendary meal ahead.

The Legendary Experience at Bern’s Steak House

Upon our arrival at Bern’s, we checked in and were promptly seated. Having already consulted the menu mentally, we knew exactly what we desired for our main course, though the extensive wine list presented a delightful challenge. Bern’s Steak House is world-renowned for its unparalleled wine program, housing the largest private wine collection globally. Given our earlier drinks at Haven, we opted for individual glasses of wine rather than a full bottle, appreciating their expansive selection of single-glass pours that allowed us to sample different vintages.

Each of us ordered the 6 oz. Filet Mignon, a testament to Bern’s commitment to quality. Unlike many contemporary steakhouses that offer à la carte sides, Bern’s adheres to the “old school” steakhouse tradition, where your main course comes with an array of complementary dishes. Every meal begins with a rich French onion soup, followed by a fresh salad. The steak itself is accompanied by a perfectly baked potato and the day’s fresh vegetables, often sourced directly from their own farm. This entire opulent meal, for the 6-ounce Filet, was an astonishing $36 per person! This pricing is nearly unheard of in today’s fine dining scene, especially considering the comprehensive nature of the meal. And as a food blogger who has savored countless steaks, I can confidently declare that this was, without exaggeration, one of the finest I have ever tasted.

An integral part of the Bern’s experience is their unique approach to dessert and tours. During dinner, your server will proactively inquire about your dessert plans, automatically reserving a table for you in their renowned Harry Waugh Dessert Room. Additionally, after your meal, you are offered a complimentary tour of the bustling kitchen and, if available, the legendary wine cellar, providing a fascinating glimpse into the operations of this iconic establishment. It’s truly a full culinary journey.

A Sweet Finale at The Harry Waugh Dessert Room

Even though we were thoroughly satisfied from our incredible steak dinner, we knew a visit to The Harry Waugh Dessert Room was a non-negotiable part of the Bern’s experience. This unique dessert haven, separate from the main dining areas, offers an enchanting atmosphere. We decided to indulge in the “Brown Sugar” ($11.00), a delightful trio of cookie-inspired treats: a rich chocolate chip cookie dough cheesecake, a classic cookies & cream ice cream sandwich, and a warm brown sugar blondie. As avid cookie lovers, this dessert had caught my eye during our previous visit when my dietary restrictions prevented me from enjoying it fully.

We were fortunate to be seated in the charming piano room, a truly unique and cozy setting. Our booth offered an intimate view of the piano player, who skillfully played requests from guests. Those seated in other sections of the dessert room could use small phones at their tables to call in song requests, and it was amusing to watch him pause his playing to answer! To top off the memorable evening, our thoughtful waitress surprised Jon with a special birthday dessert, adding an extra layer of sweetness to his celebration.

A Leisurely Brunch at Élevage: The Perfect Farewell

The following morning, we allowed ourselves the luxury of sleeping in, a rare treat for parents of young children. After leisurely packing our belongings, we headed down for brunch at Élevage, The Epicurean Hotel’s signature restaurant. Élevage masterfully marries the warmth of Southern hospitality with sophisticated French culinary techniques, presenting a concise yet innovative menu that promises an exceptional dining experience. The ambiance was relaxed and elegant, providing a perfect setting for our final meal of the getaway.

We started our brunch with steaming cups of coffee, savoring the quiet moments together. Our culinary choices included the savory shrimp and grits, comforting biscuits with sausage gravy, and, upon our server’s glowing recommendation, a refreshing tomato and avocado salad tossed in a delicate champagne vinaigrette. I had contemplated ordering a Bloody Mary, but the dilemma was swiftly resolved by Hillsborough County liquor laws, which prohibit alcohol service before 11 AM. It was a good thing, as the exquisite food and delightful company were more than enough to enhance our morning.

Brunch at Élevage was the ideal conclusion to our 24-hour escape. Despite its brevity, the getaway felt much longer, a testament to the depth of our experiences and the quality time we spent reconnecting. We both agreed, wholeheartedly, that this “Steak-Cation” needed to become an annual tradition, a vital investment in our relationship and a cherished opportunity to put ourselves first, even if just for a day.

Plan Your Escape: How to Get to The Epicurean Hotel

Ready to plan your own kid-free romantic getaway or culinary adventure? The Epicurean Hotel offers convenient access for travelers from various locations.

Access by Car:

The hotel is strategically located near major highways, I-275 and Selmon Expressway/SR-618, making it easily reachable from Florida’s major cities:

• Orlando: 87 miles (approximately 1 ½ hours)
• Naples: 166 miles (approximately 2 ½ hours)
• Jacksonville: 200 miles (approximately 3 hours)
• Miami: 280 miles (approximately 4 hours)

Access by Air:

For those traveling by air, The Epicurean Hotel is conveniently situated close to two major airports:

• Tampa International Airport (TPA): Just 15 minutes away
• St. Petersburg-Clearwater International Airport (PIE): Approximately 30 minutes away
• Private jet access is also available for guests seeking an even more exclusive travel experience.

Contact Information:

Epicurean Hotel
1207 South Howard Avenue
Tampa, Florida 33606
(813) 999-8700
EpicureanHotel.com

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