South Tampa’s Edison Food + Drink Lab is going dark for the summer, but regulars can exhale: this is a pit stop, not a farewell tour. The long-running restaurant from chef Jeannie Pierola is taking a temporary summer break for deep cleaning and to map out a brand refresh during the slower months. The team is clearly positioning the move as a short, seasonal pause rather than a permanent shutdown.
As reported by Creative Loafing Tampa, the restaurant announced the hiatus in a Facebook post that read, “After 14 years of creating, serving and welcoming you, we are taking a summer break to refresh and dream up something extraordinary.” The restaurant’s official site also shows an “ON SUMMER BREAK” notice and directs guests to Pierola’s other concept while Edison is closed. Edison Food + Drink Lab lists Counter Culture as an alternative this summer.
Pierola’s Track Record And Edison’s Origins
Pierola is a five-time James Beard Award semifinalist, a credential she highlights on her bio page. The Tampa Bay Times notes Edison debuted in 2012 and has been praised for its rotating, experimental menu. Local critics have long pointed to that creativity as a key to the restaurant’s staying power.
Counter Culture Will Carry The Torch
While Edison is dark, Pierola’s newer concept, Counter Culture, remains open and is welcoming guests for dinner and weekend brunch. Counter Culture lists current hours and encourages Edison regulars to visit during the pause. The team notes that reservations and staffing are handled independently at the sister restaurant, which will remain fully operational through the summer.
What To Expect Next
Pierola told Creative Loafing Tampa that reopening “isn’t too far out,” although no firm date has been set. Edison says it will post updates on its social channels and website as plans firm up, and diners with gift cards or upcoming reservations are advised to check directly with the restaurants. Fans can expect some level of retooled look or menu when Edison returns to service.
