Cuban Food Guide to Tampa

Tampa's Cuban Heritage

Tampa has a deep Cuban culinary tradition dating back to the cigar factory era of the 1880s. The Tampa-style Cuban sandwich originated here and differs from the Miami version by including salami. Ybor City and West Tampa are the epicenters of authentic Cuban dining in the Tampa Bay area.

Best Cuban Sandwiches

The Cuban sandwich debate is serious in Tampa. La Teresita in West Tampa is a local institution serving authentic Cuban sandwiches since 1974. West Tampa Sandwich Shop is another classic. The Columbia Restaurant in Ybor City serves an upscale version. Brocato's Sandwich Shop has been a favorite since 1948. Every Tampa local has their own favorite, and opinions are passionate.

Cuban Restaurants

Columbia Restaurant, established in 1905, is the oldest restaurant in Florida and serves Spanish-Cuban cuisine in a stunning tiled dining room. Cafe Con Tampa in Ybor City serves modern Cuban fare. La Tropicana in Ybor City is a classic counter-service spot for cafecito and pastelitos. West Tampa offers numerous family-run Cuban restaurants with authentic home-style cooking.

Group Food Tours

BusBrother provides group transportation for Tampa Cuban food tours, taking groups through Ybor City and West Tampa for multi-stop dining experiences. Food-focused group tours from Orlando to Tampa are popular for corporate outings and foodie groups. The 75-minute drive from Orlando is handled by the charter bus so the group can focus on eating.

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