The pink-colored Vinoy Renaissance Resort & Golf Club is situated on the waterfront in downtown St. Petersburg — Photo courtesy of Kara Franker

On New Year’s Eve in 1925, The Vinoy Renaissance Resort & Golf Club’s first guests admired the hotel’s intricately carved stone columns and pinkish-coral hue.

The historic resort and its talented roster of chefs have since hosted their fair share of celebrity VIPs, from old-school baseball greats like Babe Ruth to modern-day movie stars like Brad Pitt, Julia Roberts and George Clooney.

Today at The Vinoy – one of the St. Petersburg/Clearwater area’s most luxurious hotels – flavorful farm-to-table dishes take on a whole new level of decadence at the hotel's many dining spots.

Marchand's

Ninety years later, Marchand’s – the resort’s signature restaurant – offers a glimpse into the hotel's colorful history. Restored ceiling frescos from the 1920s line the restaurant’s walls, while the wait staff don replicated vests from the glamorous era.

Featuring local cuisine that's hand selected by the executive chef, the menu offers a variety of dishes ranging from freshly caught Gulf grouper to Béarnaise-glazed beef tenderloin. 

Freshly caught fish from the Gulf of Mexico is a house specialty — Photo courtesy of Kara Franker

Sushi is hand rolled Tuesday through Saturday evenings and features local creations such as the St. Pete roll and Vinoy Volcano.

And the Sunday Bloody Mary Bar during brunch offers spicy options to create the perfect one-of-a-kind cocktail.

Try one of the many delicious breakfast items during the Sunday brunch at The Vinoy — Photo courtesy of Kara Franker

Marchand’s also offers a 1925 classic dining menu that features three courses and an optional wine pairing for the fitting price of $19.25 per person (plus $8 per class of wine). An intimate wine room is ideal for special events and tastings, with an extensive collection of wines from around the world.

When you book the wine room, you can enjoy your very own tasting menu — Photo courtesy of Kara Franker

Fred's Cellar

For another uniquely 1920s-inspired experience, Fred’s will take you back to a speakeasy-style era when flappers danced to the smooth sounds of jazz.

Think shareable entrees and simple, handcrafted cocktails. Reservations and a password are required, so make sure you call ahead.

Get a handcrafted cocktail at Fred's Cellar — Photo courtesy of Kara Franker

More Dining Options

Alfresco’s: Dine on tropical fare during lunch and dinner at this Floribbean restaurant overlooking The Vinoy’s lavish pool and 10-foot waterfall. 

Order the fish tacos at Alfresco's, and you won't be sorry — Photo courtesy of Kara Franker

Veranda Bar & Patio: Enjoy evening cocktails and light fare while lounging by outdoor firepits, at the bar or amidst the collection of rocking chairs. 

The outdoor veranda is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the view, with a cocktail in hand — Photo courtesy of Kara Franker

Picnic Lunches: Grab-and-go sandwiches and salads are available at The Vinoy for those who want to pack a picnic lunch for the beach or a sailing adventure on the calm waters of Tampa Bay.

There are ample private dining options available for groups, meetings and weddings at The Vinoy, too. Plan a whimsical garden affair with rustic decor and delicious dishes like lemon poppy and red velvet pancakes.

The hotel caters special events for groups — Photo courtesy of Kara Franker

Or book the Grand Ballroom for a big event; it’s home to historic features like a barrel ceiling, arched windows, detailed plaster and a show-stopping chandelier comprised of 750 silver and amber glass pieces designed by artist Dale Chihuly. 

This luxurious waterfront hotel blends historic charm and a rich past with modern luxuries and amenities as well as unique dining experiences that will take you back to the Great Gatsby era.

It's no wonder The Vinoy is one of the best hotels in St. Petersburg.