Top 12 Best Restaurants in Ybor City, Tampa – Must-Visit Dining Spots

Ybor City in the Tampa Bay area is a cultural, culinary and historical melting pot. As you walk down the historic streets you’re hit with the smells of Cuban, Italian, Japanese and Southern food, each telling the story of the city’s diversity. In this guide, we’ll take you through the top restaurants in Ybor City, each with a different dining experience that will delight your senses and leave you wanting more.

Whether you’re a local or a visitor the culinary delights of Ybor City are not to be missed. From the legendary Cuban sandwiches at Columbia Restaurant to the sushi at Samurai Blue, each eatery gives you a view into the diverse culinary landscape of this historic neighbourhood. Get ready to eat your way through Ybor City where every meal is not just food but a celebration of rich history and culture.

Best Restaurants Ybor City In Tampa Bay

Columbia Restaurant

ADDRESS: 2117 E. 7th Ave. Tampa, FL 33605
WEBSITE: Columbia Restaurant

Columbia Restaurant is a Tampa treasure, a glimpse into the area’s Spanish and Cuban past. Open since 1905 this is the oldest restaurant in Florida and famous for its traditional dishes like the Cuban sandwich and seafood paella. The restaurant is a big space with Spanish decorations and live flamenco dancing at night. Eating here feels like attending a party that celebrates both history and food.

When you eat at Columbia you get more than a meal. The restaurant takes up a whole city block and welcomes everyone, whether you’re coming for a quiet dinner or a big family meal. Every dish served is part of a long tradition of greatness. Try their famous salad made tableside or sip on homemade sangria. A visit to Columbia is a trip back in time with flavours that tell the story of the past.

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Bernini of Ybor 

ADDRESS: 1702 E 7th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605
PHONE: (813) 242-9555
WEBSITE: Bernini of Ybor

Bernini of Ybor brings Italy to Tampa with a twist on the classics. Here you can have rich pasta, fresh seafood and unique dishes that blend traditional Italian with modern flair. The atmosphere is old-world charm and modern style perfect for a romantic night or a special occasion. During happy hour their martinis are the draw and add to the sophisticated setting.

The experience at Bernini is designed to wow from the food to the decor. The staff are experts at making you feel welcome and can recommend the perfect dish or drink. Whether you’re looking for a fancy dinner or a great place to have a drink, Bernini is a top Italian experience.

7th and Grove 

Name: 7th and Grove
ADDRESS: 1930 E 7th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605
PHONE: (813) 649-8422
WEBSITE: 7th and Grove

When you walk into 7th and Grove you can feel the warmth and hospitality of the South. Located in the middle of Ybor City this trendy yet cozy spot is Southern comfort food with a modern twist. The atmosphere is lively and inviting with chic modern decor that makes you feel right at home. Music is playing and the vibe is electric making it a local and visitor favorite. It’s the perfect spot for a big meal with friends or a special night out where every detail from the lighting to the music is curated to make your dining experience great.

The menu at 7th and Grove is a journey through Southern classics reimagined with gourmet touches and fresh local ingredients. Their fried chicken is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside and their mac and cheese is creamy and decadent. It’s not just food it’s a celebration of flavor and tradition. Each plate is beautifully presented because they care about quality and creativity. Whether you’re looking for comfort food or something new 7th and Grove will satisfy your soul and your palate and make every visit a good one.

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El Puerto Restaurant and Grill 

ADDRESS: 1623 E 5th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605
PHONE: (813) 248-8222
WEBSITE: El Puerto Restaurant and Grill

At El Puerto Restaurant and Grill, you can taste South America right in the heart of Ybor City. This restaurant is famous for its authentic Argentinean and Peruvian dishes like the tender rib-eye steak and fresh ceviche. The casual open-air setting is perfect for dinner with friends or family with the sounds and sights of Ybor City.

El Puerto is more than a restaurant it’s a party where every meal is a celebration of culture and community. The staff love to tell you about the dishes so every visit is educational and fun. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a place to celebrate El Puerto welcomes you with open arms and South American hospitality.

Casa Santo Stefano

ADDRESS: 1607 N 22nd St, Tampa, FL 33605
PHONE: (813) 248-1925
WEBSITE: Casa Santo Stefano

Casa Santo Stefano is a cute Italian restaurant in Ybor City, Tampa. The warm atmosphere and real Italian food make it perfect for a romantic dinner or special occasion.

The menu has lots of homemade pasta, lasagna Bolognese is the star. Antipasti selection is huge so you can start with many appetizers. Staff can help you pick the perfect wine to go with your meal.

And the ambience! Casa Santo Stefano is also praised for that. Inside the restaurant feels like you are in an Italian home. For dessert tiramisu, cannoli and gelato. Whether you live here or visiting Ybor City, you gotta come here if you like good food and a warm atmosphere.

The Bricks of Ybor

ADDRESS: 1327 E 7th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605
PHONE: (813) 247-1785
WEBSITE: The Bricks of Ybor

The Bricks of Ybor is famous for its American cuisine with a twist so it’s a local and visitor favorite. Good food and creative flair are what you get here with dishes like BBQ duck and handmade cocktails. The relaxed atmosphere is enhanced by local art and live music reflecting the local vibe.

It’s like hanging out at a friend’s house. Good for lunch or a night out. The menu changes seasonally so there’s always something new. Whether you’re in for a meal or just to hang out The Bricks is a chill dining experience.

Sushi House

ADDRESS: 1901 N 19th St, Tampa, FL 33605
PHONE: (813) 248-2333
WEBSITE: Sushi House

Sushi House in Ybor City is if you like sushi. They have a lot of sushi options from rolls to sashimi that are fresh and delicious. The volcano roll is a crowd favourite for a reason. Before the main dishes you can try their sweet and spicy edamame which many people love as an appetizer. They have a lot of options so everyone can find something they like whether you’re a big sushi fan or just trying it out for the first time​.

The restaurant has a modern and cozy vibe. It’s set up to be comfortable with a clean and contemporary look so dining is enjoyable. You can sit at the sushi bar and watch the chefs prepare your food or at a table for a more intimate meal. The staff at Sushi House are friendly and helpful and will suggest dishes and make sure you have a good time while you’re there​​.

Besides sushi, Sushi House also serves other Japanese dishes. You can try different kinds of small plates like tempura or gyoza and larger meals like teriyaki and udon noodles. They also have a selection of Japanese drinks like sake and beer to go with your meal. So Sushi House is a good spot to try a variety of Japanese food and drinks in a nice setting​

Samurai Blue Sushi & Sake Bar

ADDRESS: 1600 E 8th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605
PHONE: (813) 242-6688
WEBSITE: Samurai Blue

Samurai Blue Sushi & Sake Bar is sushi heaven. A taste of Japan in Ybor City. Chefs craft beautiful and delicious sushi and sashimi with only the freshest ingredients. Modern minimalist decor provides a peaceful background for the food. Perfect for a special dinner or a fancy gathering.

Dining at Samurai Blue is like a peaceful journey through Japan. They also have a great sake list and staff to help you choose the perfect sake to go with your meal. Date night or quiet dinner Samurai Blue creates a serene and luxurious experience.

Each of these restaurants brings something to Ybor City. They offer great food but also an experience that is Tampa. Whether you live here or just visiting, you must try these out to taste the best of Ybor City.

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Gaspars Grotto

Name: Gaspar’s Grotto
ADDRESS: 1805 E 7th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605
PHONE: (813) 248-5900
WEBSITE: Gaspar’s Grotto

As you walk in the door of Gaspar’s Grotto you’re transported to a pirate’s lair right in the middle of Ybor City. This restaurant embodies the swashbuckling spirit of Tampa’s infamous pirates with its pirate themed decor, flags, ropes and treasure maps. It’s a fun spot for families and groups of friends looking for a great dining experience. As you sit down the sound of laughter and clinking glasses fills the air, it’s going to be a meal to remember. 

The menu at Gaspar’s Grotto is just as bold and adventurous as the decor. With a wide variety of dishes from fresh seafood to barbecue, every plate is a treasure trove of flavours. The pirate-themed dishes like the “Blackbeard’s BBQ Ribs” or the “Calypso Shrimp” are delicious and fun. The restaurant hosts events and often has live music, adding to the festive atmosphere. Whether you’re here for Sunday brunch or a night out, Gaspar’s Grotto is a culinary adventure like a pirate’s voyage.

Reservoir Bar

Name: Reservoir Bar
ADDRESS: 1518 E 7th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605
PHONE: (813) 248-1442
WEBSITE: Reservoir Bar

Walk into Reservoir Bar and you’ll find yourself in a chill, no-frills spot that’s as cool as it is weird. Located in the heart of Ybor City, this local bar is loved for its relaxed atmosphere and good vibes. The interior is a mix of rustic and modern, with dim lighting and quirky decor that makes you feel right at home. Here, regulars and newbies mix and mingle, united by good drinks and good company. It’s the perfect place to unwind after exploring Ybor or to start a night out with friends.

At Reservoir Bar, it’s all about keeping it simple and fun. The menu has classic bar food—juicy burgers, crispy fries, wings with just the right amount of heat. Each dish is made with love and served with a smile to go along with the many beers and creative cocktails. The bar has live music and events so there’s always something extra to do. Whether you’re here to watch a game on the screens, see a live band or just chill in the vibe, Reservoir Bar has a warm welcome and a piece of Ybor City.

La Segunda Central Bakery 

Name: La Segunda Central Bakery
ADDRESS: 2512 N 15th St, Tampa, FL 33605
PHONE: (813) 248-1531
WEBSITE: La Segunda Central Bakery

Walking into La Segunda Central Bakery is like stepping into a piece of Ybor City’s history. Since 1915 this institution has been serving the community for over 100 years with the same devotion to traditional Cuban cuisine. The smell of fresh bread fills the air and you want to try everything from their famous Cuban sandwiches to all the pastries. The line is a testament to its popularity, with locals and tourists alike waiting to get a taste of what many consider the best Cuban bread in Tampa.

At La Segunda Central Bakery everything on the menu is a piece of the bakery’s history. Whether you’re enjoying a café con leche with a guava pastry in the morning or picking up a loaf of fresh bread to go, you can see the quality and love in every item. The staff is friendly and proud of the bakery’s heritage and will often share stories of the bakery’s past with customers. The warm and casual atmosphere makes you feel like you’re part of the family whether you’re a first-timer or a regular. La Segunda isn’t just a place to eat, it’s a place to experience Ybor City.

Los Chapos Tacos

Name: Los Chapos Tacos
ADDRESS: 951 E 7th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605
PHONE: (813) 227-8999
WEBSITE: Los Chapos Tacos

When you walk into Los Chapos Tacos you’re hit with a fun and colorful atmosphere. Located in the middle of Ybor City this Mexican spot stands out with its bright murals and rustic decor that brings a little bit of Mexico to Tampa. The air is filled with the smells of seasoned meats and fresh cilantro and you can’t help but want to try some of that Mexican street food. It’s a busy spot perfect for a quick lunch or a fun dinner where the energy is as loud as the flavours.

At Los Chapos Tacos the menu is a fiesta of Mexican food with a variety of dishes that showcase traditional cooking methods and fresh ingredients. From street-style tacos filled with al pastor, carne asada or fish to bigger plates like sizzling fajitas and big burritos each dish is made to give you a real taste of Mexico. The open-air seating lets you eat your meal while taking in the sights and sounds of Ybor City. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or dining with friends Los Chapos Tacos is a fun and tasty adventure.

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