New massive, two-story dining concept Union New American will open in Tampa next month

Well, after two years of hype, Next Level Brands’ giant new dining concept, Union New American, finally has an opening date.

Today, the company announced that Union is currently taking reservations for its first dinner service, beginning at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, April 4 at 1111 N Westshore Blvd Annex B, within  the Westshore City Center.

The two-story, nearly 10,000-square-foot complex centers around a 284-seat dining area with a main bar on the first floor, and a lounge and terrace area on the second floor, which can also host live music and private events.

Next Level Brads is a partnership between real estate executive Andrew Wright, attorney/investor Joseph Guggino, and restauranteur Jeff Gigante, who is
formerly of the Ciccio Restaurant Group and co-founder of Hyde Park Village’s Forbici Modern Italian restaurant.

“The Westshore area is home to a vast population of business professionals and travelers,” said Gigante in a statement. “Union New American is a full experience – an adult playground of sorts – where guests can conduct business during the day, close the work day with a cocktail at the bar, and progress into the evening hours, while embracing energetic lounge-vibes on our second floor rooftop, terrace, and event space.”

According to the company, the  kitchen will be led by Chef Adam Polisei, who was previously with Ohio-based Cameron Mitchell Restaurants group, and oversaw popular spots like Ocean Prime and Michell’s Fish Market.

The menu centers around  a “fire hearth that uses American white oak and coal,”  says a press release, and covers everything from seafood light bites like yellowfin tuna tartare, and sushi options, to heartier dishes including steaks, roast chicken,  and smoked eggplant enchiladas.

Union also boasts a hefty selection of beer, wine and cocktails, and features desserts from Executive Pastry Chef Summer Bailey, who is also Executive Pastry Chef at Water Street’s new hot spot Boulon Brasserie.

The concept was originally slated to open in fall of 2021.

UPDATED: 03/30/21 1:45 p.m. Updated to make clear that Summer Bailey works at both Union and Boulon Brasserie.

This article appears in Mar 23-29, 2023.