Tampa wouldn’t be complete without our world-famous Columbia Restaurant. The Oldest Restaurant in Florida founded in 1905, now has 7 locations around the state of Florida. So, no excuse to not visit on your next trip!
The original Columbia Restaurant is located in the historic Ybor City just outside of Downtown Tampa. It is the oldest Spanish restaurant in the United States and the largest Spanish restaurant in the world. Other locations can be found in Sarasota, St. Augustine, Sand Key (Clearwater), and Celebration, FL just outside of Walt Disney World. Additionally, the Columbia opened two smaller scale locations in the Tampa International Airport and within the Tampa Bay History Center. Currently I have checked out 6 out of the 7 locations and have the history center left on my list.
This Tampa gem is worth visiting any location but the original in Ybor City is special. From the large scale multi room building you get a different experience every time you visit. At the original location you will also see Flamenco shows most nights of the week. Dancers parade across the restaurant celebrating the rich Spanish tradition.
But the real showstopper is of course the food. You cannot order a bad thing on the menu. But of course I have some recommendations.
Homemade Sangria
This drink is so well loved, their gift shop even services packages of their mix to go so you can drink it from home. You can even buy a traditional sangria pitcher decked out just like the ones you see around he restaurant.
Mojitos
My personal favorite drink is the mojito. You can order a pitcher and they will make the drink for fresh and tableside. Another Columbia Classic
The Cuban
A fan favorite for sure. The bread is the real winner with this sandwich. My personal favorite is the Mahi Cuban, a Columbia Restaurant twist on a classic.
Cuban Bread
Don’t worry, you don’t have to order a sandwich to enjoy their bread. Everyone eating at the Columbia gets their own wrapped half loaf of bread to enjoy. Its my FAVORITE part of the entire meal.
Black Bean Soup
I can’t go to the Columbia and not get the Black Bean Soup. A cup or bowl, it doesn’t matter you need to make sure you order this on your next visit.
1905 Salad
Made table side this salad is one of the most famous items on the menu. This award-winning salad has won numerous honors and awards. If you order anything order the salad.
