Chef Richard Sandoval opens restaurant in Tampa Marriott

Chef and restaurateur Richard Sandoval opened Garrison Tavern, the first of his only two restaurants in the Tampa Bay area. It is located within the newly rebranded Tampa Marriott Water Street, formerly known as the Tampa Marriott Waterside Hotel & Marina.

Interior design of the new 265-seat venue was overseen by The Johnson Studio at Cooper Carry, an Atlanta-based team of architects and designers.

Design-wise, the space pays homage to the neighborhood taverns of the past with an open layout and communal tables. Key elements in the interiors include reclaimed wood, deep navy blues, and other natural elements and colors that are inspired by the nearby waterfront. Garrison Tavern also has white brick interior elements, custom lighting, rustic wood tops and outdoor patio seating with direct street access.

Inspired by Tampa’s brewing culture, Garrison Tavern’s beer menu highlights 20 locally crafted brews on tap.

Garrison Tavern also has two large media walls, consisting of nine screens each, and over 35 individual TVs, spread throughout the venue.

Additional elements of sports culture in Garrison Tavern include a giant Jenga and shuffleboard in Topgolf Swing Suite, an extension of the Topgolf brand, and the first of its kind in Florida. Garrison Tavern’s Topgolf Swing Suite has two bays and offers a new way to play through an interactive social experience via simulated multi-sport games including golf, dodgeball, hockey, baseball and football.

Ron McAnaugh is the GM of Tampa Marriott Water Street.

Photo credit: Tampa Marriott Water Street