Fly me to the moon, where we can dine among the stars. This St. Pete gem has a dining experience unlike anything else in the region. One of St. Pete’s most elegant event spaces, Sonata Restaurant & Lounge opened less than a year ago inside The Mahaffey Theater and has quickly become one of Tampa Bay’s dreamiest venues for a night out.
Led by Executive Chef Ted Dorsey, Sonata’s menu presents “coastal cuisine rooted in southern hospitality,” featuring creative seafood dishes, contemporary chophouse selections, and a cocktail program that complements the waterfront views. Sonata is a collaboration between Dorsey, The Mahaffey, and The Imagine Museum, blending performing, visual, and culinary arts under one roof.
Part of what makes Sonata so unique – beyond Dorsey’s always-tantalizing fare – is the convergence of so much artistic work in one place. The Mahaffey is, of course, a celebrated performing arts venue, and that same ethos has materialized inside the restaurant.
Fine dining under the moonlight
The centerpiece – and what has become a wildly popular photo spot – is the gigantic and beautiful moon hung by the Imagine Museum, part of a multi-million dollar arts investment into the space. The moon is six meters in diameter, and much like the one we see in the sky each night, this moon, too, has traveled the world, being on display everywhere from Rome and England, to Australia and now St. Pete.
Adding to the exclusivity, Sonata is only open on nights when The Mahaffey has a show, making it the perfect pre- or post-performance spot for dinners and drinks. Fortunately for us, the holiday season means the celebrated theatre has a packed out schedule, giving us plenty of opportunities to experience the most unique moonlit dining experience in Tampa Bay. 
Nothing like The Nutcracker and cocktails to keep the holiday spirit thriving. Explore the full menu here and experience a memorable night with dinner and a show.
Chef Dorsey has been a staple in the area for more than a decade, particularly well-known for helming downtown St. Pete favorite The Mill. Beyond Dorsey’s new signature dishes at Sonata, the restaurant’s ambiance adds to its unique charm. The Mahaffey Theater’s dedication to the arts is alive in Sonata’s decor, with the magnificent moon installation serving as a focal point for art-inspired dining.
Sonata is St. Pete’s premier events venue
As the holiday season arrives, Sonata also offers a timely option for weddings, receptions, and galas, especially as many in the area search for new venues after recent hurricane damage.
With chef-driven cuisine, picturesque views of Tampa Bay, and elegant amenities, Sonata is an ideal location for holiday parties, wedding receptions, and charity galas. Guests enjoy panoramic views stretching from The Dali Museum to the St. Pete Pier, along with exceptional amenities like valet parking, complimentary menu tastings, customizable audio and visual setups, and table linens in colors of your choice.
For more on hosting an event at Sonata, click here, or email sonataevents@themahaffey.com to begin planning your next big occasion. Located inside The Mahaffey Theater at 400 1st Street South, Sonata is open to guests on nights when there’s a show at the theater.
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