Best Historic Restaurants in Tampa

We thought this place deserved 5 stars. We were a little late to our 5:30 reservation… about 20 minutes. When we got there the hostess took our name and we were seated within 5 minutes. We started with the Sangria and the Basil Basilica and both were fantastic. For appetizers we had the ricotta spread (which was very good but a little too much ricotta cream), the octopus (very good) and the wagyu carpaccio (which was my favorite!). My boyfriend had the chicken for the entree and I had the Mafaldine. Both were absolutely amazing and will be going back!

Haven continues to delight every visit. This month they are running a "All Dogs go to Haven" hotdog special on the bar bites menu to benefit Florida Giant Dog Rescue. Last week the hotdog was named the Johnson after chef Chad Johnson. The hotdog was wrapped with bacon and had truffles 2 ways. It was incredibly well done. This week the hotdog is the Adrian named after long time waiter Adrian because it features sauerkraut. Overall this is a win-win that features great food benefiting a worthy cause.

We had a great Christmas meal. Three of us enjoyed an appetizer, the 1905 tableside salad, and entrees. Two had fish - both were delicious. The only disappointment was the special Christmas dinner pork meal, which was dry and barely lukewarm as if it had been sitting waiting for the others. The service was stellar - friendly, informative, knowledgeable, timely, but allowed us to enjoy the experience over a period of time without feeling rushed even though the place was jam packed.

We went for their Christmas Eve dinner. This was an amazing meal. One of the best I have ever had. From the hor d'oeuvres to the appetizers and then the salmon, duck, rabbit and langoustine. Then topped off by an amazing dessert. Of course, accompanied by a delicious lemon drop martini. The atmosphere was festive, and the wait staff missed nothing. Lilac is definitely on our list of favorite restaurants. Can't wait to go back. KUDOS!

Great ambiance for the holidays, we really enjoyed the holiday cocktail specials, and the smashburger and fries were delicious! Servers were very attentive and friendly, would definitely return post-holiday!