New Waterfront restaurant Elliott Aster to open at The Vinoy in St. Petersburg

ST. PETERSBURG, FL (BLOOM) – The Vinoy Resort and Golf Club , a historic staple in St. Petersburg’s luxury landscape, is set to welcome an exciting new culinary experience: Elliott Aster. The upcoming restaurant, slated to open in early 2025, is a collaboration between award-winning Chef Lee Wolen and the Boka Restaurant Group .

Chef Wolen, known for his culinary abilities at Michelin-starred Boka in Chicago, is partnering with the team behind popular restaurants like Alla Vita and GG’s Chicken Shop . Wolen, who has worked in world-class establishments such as Spain’s El Bulli and New York’s Eleven Madison Park, brings his passion and expertise back to Florida. His connection to the area runs deep, having previously worked at Four Seasons Palm Beach.

“I am truly honored to be opening a restaurant in St. Pete, a place that holds a special place in my heart,” Wolen shared. “Having stayed at The Vinoy with my family and experiencing its rich history and charm, it feels like the perfect setting to create something truly special.”

Elliott Aster is set to offer refined dinners inside its beautifully designed dining room, paired with aperitivos and cocktails on its scenic waterfront patio. The menu will reflect Wolen’s signature style, featuring thoughtfully sourced ingredients and sophisticated dishes like Prime Tenderloin Beef Carpaccio, King Crab Tagliatelle, and Whole Roasted Blue Prawns “Fra Diavolo.” An antipasti bar will highlight Italian meats, whipped ricotta, and freshly prepared seasonal vegetables.

The restaurant is also a nod to St. Petersburg’s history, named after the Elliott Aster wildflower and paying tribute to Gene Elliott, who helped name The Vinoy. Vanessa Williams, General Manager of The Vinoy Resort, expressed her excitement about the venture: “Elliott Aster will bring a first-of-its-kind dining experience to both our resort and the downtown St. Petersburg community. Chef Wolen’s remarkable talent perfectly complements our dedication to exceptional hospitality.”

Designed by the award-winning Rockwell Group, Elliott Aster’s ambiance will reflect the sophisticated yet approachable nature of The Vinoy, blending luxury and charm with a modern twist. The Vinoy, a beloved landmark since 1925, continues to embrace both its storied past and an evolving future, with Elliott Aster poised to become a must-visit destination for locals and visitors alike.

For updates and more information, follow Elliott Aster on Instagram at @elliottasterstpete or visit www.elliottaster.com .

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