Tampa – October 07, 2026 -- Hotel Cala, a 281-room urban resort on Tampa's Riverwalk, will open in January 2027, bringing Tao Group Hospitality's LAVO and BarOnda dining concepts to a site that has anchored downtown Tampa since 1968.
Newbond Holdings redevelops a 1968-era property into a seven-story resort
Owner Newbond Holdings tapped design firm Rockwell Group to transform the longstanding Riverwalk site into a contemporary property drawing on Tampa's Italian and Cuban heritage. "For more than half a century, this site has been part of the fabric of downtown Tampa," said Neil Luthra, founding partner at Newbond Holdings, describing the project as a bid to give locals and visitors a new reason to engage with the waterfront district.
Tao Group Hospitality debuts LAVO in Tampa alongside new concept BarOnda
LAVO, making its first Tampa appearance, will serve coastal Italian fare including house-made pastas, single-source-flour pizzas and a Wagyu-veal meatball dish, backed by a dedicated cocktail and wine program. BarOnda will operate as a more casual waterfront bar and lounge adjacent to the Riverwalk. Noah Tepperberg, Co-CEO of Tao Group Hospitality, said the two venues are intended to serve both Tampa locals and visiting travelers.
Property adds 10,000 square feet of event space for up to 450 guests
Hotel Cala's 281 guestrooms include 16 suites, paired with a resort-style pool deck, a 24-hour fitness center and direct Riverwalk access. The hotel will offer 10,000 square feet of flexible indoor and outdoor event space across seven rooms, positioning the property for corporate meetings, weddings and social events in proximity to downtown Tampa's museums and waterfront parks.
Property joins Hilton's Curio Collection under Schulte Hospitality management
Hotel Cala will operate within Curio Collection by Hilton and participate in the Hilton Honors loyalty program, with day-to-day management handled by Schulte Hospitality. The lobby, designed as a circular space beneath a custom tiered chandelier, is intended to function as a transitional hub linking the pool deck, dining venues and arrival experience throughout the day.