Press Release

While New York City boasts a wealth of entertainment options, from world-class museums to a legendary theater scene, life in the Big Apple is not for everyone—but that doesn’t mean its essence isn’t desirable in other parts of the country. Wanting to bring some of the best gems of her native New York City area to Safety Harbor, Florida,Rachel Fine WilsonfoundedGigglewaters, a truly unique dining experience that combines flavorful comfort food with an unmatched entertainment experience for their new hometown. 

After moving from Brooklyn to Florida in 2015, Rachel Fine Wilson and her husband, Richie Wilson, found themselves missing many of their New York City haunts. While loving the exchange of cold winter months for more sunshine, the couple began to conceptualize how to bring the soul of New York’s culinary and entertainment scene to the Tampa Bay area. This passion and dedication led to the founding of Gigglewaters, now an award-winning restaurant that has quickly become a beloved part of the Tampa scene. 

With meticulous attention to detail, Rachel curated Gigglewaters to pay homage to the storied speakeasies of prohibition-era New York. From the historic charm of tin ceilings and flocked wallpaper to the warm glow of Edison lighting, every architectural element was carefully chosen to evoke a sense of nostalgia and intrigue. Nestled in downtown Safety Harbor, Gigglewaters beckons patrons with its bespoke ambiance—a testament to Rachel's unwavering commitment to authenticity and immersive dining experiences.

At the heart of Gigglewaters lies its culinary prowess, where upscale American fare takes center stage, punctuated by an award-winning cocktail selection and over a dozen inspired Wagyu beef burgers, as seen on Cooking Channel's "Man v. Food." Yet, Gigglewaters offers more than just gastronomic delights—it is a haven for community and connection. Beyond its dining room, guests are invited to enjoy the exquisite cuisine while they embark on a cinematic journey in the intimate confines of a 32-seat movie theater, where classic films and timeless favorites come to life.

Gigglewaters offers patrons a unique journey through film. In the screening room, the craft cocktails help craft the experience. Each film artistically inspires a signature cocktail that embodies its essence, paying meticulous attention to the details that connect the drink to the movie. Picture this: a Halloween screening of Stephen King's "It" accompanied by a Cereal Milk Martini with a Luxardo "blood"-splattered rim and tiny paper boats floating in each glass, setting the perfect eerie mood. In a “Jaws” showing, guests dive into blue cocktails teeming with gummy sharks. For the classic whodunit, “Clue”, a rainbow array of shots allow guests to pick their favorite suspect—be it Scarlett, Peach, or Plum—adding a truly interactive element to the viewing experience. But the real star of the show is the Cinema Supper Series—a curated culinary adventure that invites guests to indulge in a multi-course feast inspired by the on-screen food cues of a featured film, unfolding in real time. Held every six weeks, these 10-course gastronomy events transform movie nights into unforgettable dining experiences.

Gigglewaters has created an atmosphere that resonates with nostalgia, joy, and a profound sense of community. Rachel's earliest memories unfold in her father's restaurants, where she absorbed the essence of hospitality and culinary craftsmanship—a legacy passed down from her father, who himself honed his skills in his uncles' restaurants, spanning back to the 1940s. Drawing from this rich family heritage, Gigglewaters transcends the conventional restaurant model. With generations of expertise fueling her vision, Gigglewaters becomes more than just a dining destination—it's a cherished space where families and friends unite over exceptional food and entertainment.

Rachel’s innovative approach ensures that guests enjoy more than just a meal at this establishment, but also underscores Gigglewaters’ unwavering commitment to the surrounding community. Gigglewaters resides in the heart of Safety Harbor, and Safety Harbor is at the heart of Gigglewaters. This establishment is committed to giving back to the Tampa community by participating in relief efforts and supporting local causes year round. 

With nearly six years of hard work since its inception, Gigglewaters is a testament to Rachel’s vision, passion, and dedication to creating something unforgettable. Looking toward the future, the brand sets its sights on a new chapter of growth and expansion through franchising and strategic partnerships. By all measures, she has built a proven business model rooted in authenticity, community, and exceptional hospitality. As Gigglewaters looks to the future, the brand remains committed to spreading joy, fostering connections, and creating unforgettable memories for patrons across the Sunshine State and beyond.