The story
Cipresso is one of three fine dining destinations at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa, set within one of Florida's most ambitious resort properties. The restaurant draws on Italian and American culinary traditions, offering an evening experience that pairs innovative cuisine with a wine list serious enough to earn Wine Spectator's Best of Award of Excellence in 2025 — a distinction that places it among a select group of restaurants recognized for the depth, breadth, and quality of their cellar.
As part of the Seminole Hard Rock's fine dining tier — alongside Council Oak Steaks & Seafood and The Rez Grill — Cipresso occupies a distinct position: the Italian-American option for guests seeking something more refined than the property's extensive casual offerings. The kitchen's approach, as described by the property, centers on fresh, inspiring cuisine served alongside that award-winning wine list, with menus designed to engage rather than simply satisfy.
The Cipresso Bar extends the experience beyond the dining room, offering a more relaxed way to engage with the same kitchen and wine program.
The Wine Spectator Best of Award of Excellence is not handed out lightly — it requires a list that goes well beyond the basics, demonstrating genuine range across regions, producers, and vintages. For an Italian-American restaurant, that typically means serious depth in Italian appellations alongside strong American selections, and Cipresso's 2025 recognition confirms the program delivers on that promise. It is a meaningful credential for guests who treat the wine as integral to the meal rather than an afterthought.
Recognition
Ambience
Location