Ro Patel discusses his Ten Rooms concept in Tampa’s Ybor City

Ro Patel launched Ten Rooms in Tampa’s Ybor City neighborhood on April 27. Billed as a multi-experience space, the concept sits in a registered landmark building dating back to 1891. According to Patel, Ten Rooms reimagines the space into a modern, bright, 5000-square-foot “third place”, separate from the home or office, with an upscale restaurant, two bars, a retail shop and a café.

Designed by Robert Ibarra of Alfonso Architects, the space has a focus on natural light with contemporary design touches and pops of vivid colors. The walls are adorned with rotating art as well as permanent pieces highlighting local artists. The various areas of the open space include Bar Martinez, a fine dining restaurant and bar with Southeastern and European influences, Genevieve the Cat, a second bar space featuring local beers, a curated selection of wines by the glass and more than 20 cocktails on-tap, crafted by Patel, and The Café at Ten Rooms, a daytime coffee shop and bakery open from morning to afternoon. Rounding out the space is The Shop at Ten Rooms, a boutique retail and art space which will feature rotating vendors, resident artists, unique gifts, specialty items, and lifestyle goods.

Patel has been working in Tampa for more than 15 years, opening concepts like Ciro’s Speakeasy and Anise Global Gastro Bar. Working with Patel’s team on Ten Rooms is executive chef Parker Brown, a Michelin-starred chef  who has helped open restaurants in Dubai and California, and chef de cuisine and Tampa native Vincent Brisotti. They are focusing on relationships with local purveyors and farms.

Patel recently discussed Ten Rooms.

Please explain the multi-experience concept and how the idea came about. 

Though not physically divided into ten rooms, the concept offers multiple experiences under one roof. Ten Rooms is inspired by the history of Ybor City itself, as well as our team’s excitement around offering this community an inclusive “third place” that exemplifies culinary excellence.

What drives the creative aspects of this concept? Are there any signature dishes you feel fully represent the vibe of the various spaces? 

It’s the rich history of the space, once a living breathing social club for immigrants, the artist community that call Ybor home and the rapidly evolving city around us. The dishes that really represent the vibe at Bar Martinez are the fried olives, plantains and the dayboat red snapper.

What drew you to this community as a place for this concept? 

Tampa is experiencing a culinary renaissance, and we’re excited to be at the forefront of that with Ten Rooms, with a carefully selected, highly seasoned team of industry pros who have worked at some of the best restaurants in the world. We’re ready to raise the bar of what world-class hospitality means to Ybor City, and Tampa as a whole. Ybor City serves as a vibrant reminder that people enjoy the convenience of working, dining, and shopping within a few blocks of their homes. This concept was born out of its central location on 7th Ave, coupled with its rich history as a cherished community gathering space.

What are some of the key features of the design of the space, and how will they impact guest experience? 

With soft archways and pops of vibrant colors, the bright and airy design creates an atmosphere that’s contemporary and refined but also distinctly welcoming. The space is filled with pieces by local artists such as Jay Giroux of Tampa’s Greater Public Studio, further highlighting our commitment to this community. 

What is the expected average price point for diners without drinks?

Bar Martinez offers a range of opportunities for dining experiences. While the average dinner price point for guests is around $80-$100 without drinks, guests can enjoy an entrée and small plate for around $50, or opt for luxurious items caviar service ($150) and the dry-aged ribeye ($65).