Home » HOTEL NEWS » LUMA at SkyBeach Resort: A Mediterranean Culinary Revolution That Will Leave You Breathless
Published on
January 26, 2026
By: Tuhin Sarkar
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Imagine stepping into a world where the sun’s rays kiss the water’s edge, and the tantalising flavours of the Mediterranean embrace the Gulf Coast’s local bounty. Welcome to LUMA, the latest and most exciting addition to SkyBeach Resort in St. Petersburg, Florida. This waterfront restaurant, which opened its doors on January 22, 2026, is a culinary experience unlike anything you’ve ever encountered. Whether you’re a food lover, a social butterfly, or someone simply seeking an unforgettable experience, LUMA is a place where every moment feels like a celebration.
A Mediterranean Dining Experience Reimagined
LUMA’s design is as breathtaking as its cuisine. The name, derived from the Latin word lumen (meaning light), reflects the warm, sun-kissed atmosphere of the Mediterranean and the resort’s stunning location on St. Pete’s waterfront. As you enter, you’re greeted by a blend of midcentury-modern design elements and soft, coastal colours like gold and blue, with rattan accents woven into light fixtures and furniture. The setting alone is enough to transport you to the serene shores of the Mediterranean, but the magic truly happens when you take your seat.
Executive Chef Ryan VanDusen (who has honed his craft at prestigious establishments like Soho House Chicago and Don CeSar Hotel) brings his passion for both Mediterranean and Gulf Coast cuisines to the table. His menu celebrates bold flavours and fresh, seasonal ingredients, fusing the best of both worlds. Imagine sharing mezze platters of grilled naan, fresh pita, and flavour-packed spreads like smoky baba ghanoush and golden whipped feta. Each bite will remind you why LUMA has quickly become the talk of the town.
The Menu: A Symphony of Mediterranean and Gulf Coast Flavours
Let’s dive into the menu, which is nothing short of a gastronomic masterpiece. Start your journey with a mezze platter—the signature Tear + Share—featuring an array of house-made lavash, grilled naan, and fresh crudité. Accompanied by spreads like the mouthwatering garlic hummus, smoky baba ghanoush, and the zesty muhammara sweet heat pepper spread, you’ll be in Mediterranean heaven before you even get to the mains.
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Then, the small plates will blow your mind. For seafood lovers, the Florida Gulf Ceviche (featuring local fish, serrano pepper, passion fruit, and sesame) is a refreshing take on the classic. Or, indulge in the dramatic Halloumi Esh, a flaming cheese dish presented tableside that’s sure to become the talk of your evening.
But the culinary journey doesn’t stop there. LUMA’s Garden & Grove section showcases vegetable-forward dishes that’ll change the way you think about produce. Picture charred baby carrots tossed with grapefruit, hazelnuts, and tahini vinaigrette, or a refreshing watermelon and feta salad drizzled with citrus vinaigrette. These dishes celebrate the beauty of seasonal vegetables, giving them the spotlight they deserve.
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For the Bold and Adventurous: The Feast Section
For those looking for bold flavours and hearty meals, LUMA’s Feast section is a must-try. From the Mediterranean Roasted Whole Fish, served with new potatoes and an olive-artichoke salad, to the Four-Hour Slow-Braised Short Rib Kebab, smothered in a rich guava barbecue sauce, each dish promises to satisfy even the most discerning foodies.
One standout is the Lamb ‘Over Fire’ Skewers, grilled to perfection and topped with zhoug (a fiery herb sauce), cipollini agrodolce, and whipped goat cheese. These dishes are fire-kissed and filled with a depth of flavour that captures the essence of Mediterranean comfort food while honouring the freshness of Gulf Coast ingredients.
Craft Cocktails That Complement Every Dish
What’s a fantastic meal without equally impressive drinks? LUMA’s craft cocktail program is as inspired as the food. Each drink is meticulously crafted using Mediterranean herbs, spices, and fresh ingredients. Sip on the Golden Empress, made with Empress 1908 Gin, Moroccan mint tea, and a hint of honey, or the Santa Sol, a refreshing tequila-based concoction with hibiscus syrup and a Tajin rim that packs a punch.
For those feeling adventurous, the Sundrift is a THC-infused cocktail that combines Black Market THC, strawberry, and lavender syrup for a truly unique experience. It’s just another example of how LUMA is pushing the boundaries of what you expect from a dining experience.
The Ultimate Dining Experience with a View
The experience at LUMA goes beyond the food and drinks. The restaurant overlooks the newly renovated SkyBeach Marina, offering panoramic views of the Gulf Coast. If you’re arriving by boat, LUMA provides the ultimate dock-and-dine experience, where you can cruise in and enjoy a meal while soaking in the beautiful surroundings. Plus, with live DJs spinning tunes every Friday from 9-11 p.m., the vibe at LUMA transforms from an elegant dining venue to a buzzing social hub, perfect for starting your weekend off in style.
LUMA: Part of SkyBeach Resort’s Culinary Renaissance
LUMA is the third culinary concept to debut at SkyBeach Resort since its reimagination in July 2024. It joins SkyBar + Grille, a two-story open-air restaurant and bar, and Paradeco Coffee Roasters, offering artisanal coffee in a relaxed, trendy atmosphere. Together, these venues create a vibrant culinary ecosystem that will make SkyBeach Resort a destination for those seeking the best dining on Florida’s Gulf Coast.
Book Your Reservation Today – Experience the Magic of LUMA
LUMA is not just a restaurant; it’s a destination in itself. Whether you’re a local or a visitor to St. Petersburg, this Mediterranean-inspired dining concept is guaranteed to leave a lasting impression. The combination of stunning views, innovative cuisine, and a welcoming, upscale atmosphere makes LUMA a place you’ll want to visit again and again.
So what are you waiting for? Book your table today and immerse yourself in the stunning flavours of LUMA at SkyBeach Resort—where the Mediterranean meets the Gulf Coast in the most extraordinary way possible.


Dining and Cooking