Michelin gives Tampa’s Streetlight Taco a Bib Gourmand distinction
Tampa restaurant Streetlight Taco on Thursday received the Michelin Guide’s Bib Gourmand distinction, ahead of next week’s star reveal for the 2024 Florida guide.
The contemporary Mexican restaurant, which opened at 4004 Henderson Blvd. in January, is an homage to chef Michael Brannock’s lifelong appreciation of Mexican culture and cuisine. Brannock partnered with Jack Murray and Nick Reader, managing partners of Michelin-starred Tampa restaurant Rocca, to open the restaurant, which has already garnered widespread accolades from Tampa diners.
Though the James Beard awards are considered by many the Oscars of the culinary world, the Michelin Guide is arguably the most well-known and respected restaurant ratings system, known for garnering international accolades and recognition for restaurants that get star ratings.
Not to be confused with the guide’s star ratings, Bib Gourmand distinctions are given to “best value for money restaurants,” according to the guide, which offer a three-course meal at a “reasonable” price.
In February, Streetlight Taco and five other Tampa restaurants were listed as “new” additions to the guide, which according to a news release meant that the establishments could be eligible for Bib Gourmand or star awards, but not necessarily.
The other restaurants to receive Bib Gourmand status on Thursday included Orlando restaurants Sushi Saint and Zaru and Miami Vietnamese restaurant Tam Tam.
“These restaurant selections prepare bold specialties with precision and intentionality, all at an excellent value,” said Gwendal Poullennec, the international director of Michelin guides. “Our inspectors delighted in the impressive flavors and are confident that foodies – both local and from afar – will too.”
This year marks the third installment of the guide in Florida, part of a paid partnership between Michelin Guide and the state’s tourism marketing agency Visit Florida and tourism marketing boards in Tampa, Orlando and Miami.
Since the guide launched in Florida, local chefs have been hopeful that stars and additional accolades would help bring more widespread recognition to the Tampa Bay area.
So far, three Tampa restaurants have snagged a one-star rating — Rocca, Lilac and Koya — and a few more have received Bib Gourmand status, including Rooster & The Till, Gorkhali Kitchen, Psomi and the since-shuttered Ichicoro Ramen.
In a release from the guide, inspectors praised Brannock’s Sunday snack tostada, which they called a “sweet-and-savory delight” as well as a Japanese eggplant taco and the restaurant’s strawberry horchata.
Brannock said receiving the Bib Gourmand ahead of next week’s ceremony was a “happy surprise” for his entire team. He said the restaurant saw an uptick in business immediately after being listed in the guide in February.
“To be able to get that recognition that quick from Michelin — it’s really helped us to be where we’re at. This is just a further testament to how excited we are to (showcase) Mexican food.”
Next week’s invite-only Michelin Guide ceremony will take place on April 18 at the Tampa EDITION, where recipients for stars and additional awards will be revealed.
