When hunger strikes in Tampa, locals don’t have to think twice about where to find sandwich perfection.
The Columbia Restaurant, nestled in the heart of historic Ybor City, has been serving up authentic Cuban sandwiches for generations, and many argue it’s the finest you’ll find anywhere in Florida.
I’ve been savoring these pressed delights since my college days, and every bite still feels like a celebration of history, tradition, and flavor. More than just lunch, the Cuban here is a cultural treasure—crispy bread, savory meats, and melted cheese coming together in a way that tells Tampa’s story with every bite.
A Century-Old Legend in Ybor City
Walking through Columbia Restaurant’s doors feels like stepping into a living history book. Founded in 1905, this culinary cornerstone started as a humble café and blossomed into Florida’s oldest continuously operating restaurant…