Iron Chef Geoffrey Zakarian
Brings New Flagship Restaurant
to The Central in St. Petersburg
Downtown St. Petersburg’s EDGE District is about to get a world-class culinary boost. Something delicious is in the midst and it calls for internationally acclaimed chef and television personality Geoffrey Zakarian. He will debut his first new restaurant in nearly a decade at The Central, the transformative mixed-use destination by Ellison Development.
Best known for his modern American cuisine and appearances on Food Network’s Chopped, The Kitchen, and Iron Chef America, Zakarian will anchor the newly named Central Hotel, Autograph Collection, with a flagship restaurant designed to reflect St. Petersburg’s creative energy.
But it doesn’t stop there, Zakarian Hospitality will also oversee all food, beverage, and hospitality offerings at the hotel and connected Halcyon Workspace tower. That includes a rooftop pool bar and jazz lounge, banquets, catering, and curated dining experiences for both locals and visitors.
“St. Petersburg is a city brimming with energy and creativity, and we are thrilled to create a dining experience that captures that spirit,” Zakarian said.
Ellison Development CEO Casey Ellison called the partnership “a defining moment” for The Central, while St. Petersburg Mayor Kenneth T. Welch noted that Zakarian’s arrival “elevates St. Pete’s growing reputation as a premier food destination.”
For food lovers, this is big news. St. Pete has already carved out a reputation as a vibrant food city, and Zakarian’s arrival takes it to the next level—putting the EDGE District firmly on the culinary map. Whether you’re a longtime local or a weekend visitor, The Central is shaping up to be one of the city’s most exciting new spots.
Construction for Halcyon Workspace is expected to begin later this year and construction of Central Hotel is expected to begin in early 2026.
For more on The Central,
visit www.thecentralstpete.com
