Ybor City, Tampa, Florida, is a historic neighbourhood with a rich culture, history, and food. From Cuban sandwiches to sushi, Ybor City has it all. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, you gotta try the food scene here. In this article, we’ll take you through the 12 best restaurants in Ybor City, each with its own flavour and experience. Let’s get started and find the gems of this lively area.
Best Restaurants in Ybor City, Tampa Bay
- Best Restaurants in Ybor City, Tampa Bay
- Columbia Restaurant
- Bernini of Ybor
- 7th and Grove
- El Puerto Restaurant and Grill
- Casa Santo Stefano
- The Bricks of Ybor
- Sushi House
- Samurai Blue Sushi & Sake Bar
- Gaspars Grotto
- Reservoir Bar
- La Segunda Central Bakery
- Los Chapos Tacos
- Final Thought
- Frequently Asked Questions
Columbia Restaurant
Best Historic Dining Restaurants in Ybor City
| ADDRESS: | 2117 E. 7th Ave. Tampa, FL 33605 |
| WEBSITE: | columbiarestaurant.com |
Columbia Restaurant is an icon in Ybor City, open since 1905, it’s Florida’s oldest restaurant. This Spanish-Cuban eatery takes up an entire city block and has 15 dining rooms that seat 1,700 people. The menu has classics like Cuban sandwiches, seafood paella, and deviled crab croquetas. The atmosphere is elegant, with hand-painted tiles and live flamenco shows that add a cultural touch. It’s perfect for special occasions or a taste of Tampa’s history. If you want a memorable dining experience, Columbia is a must. For more cultural adventures, check out the best things to do in Ybor City.
Bernini of Ybor
Best Italian Restaurants in Ybor City
| ADDRESS: | 1702 E 7th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605 |
| PHONE: | (813) 242-9555 |
| WEBSITE: | berniniofybor.com |
Bernini of Ybor is a cute Italian restaurant in the historic Bank of Ybor City building. Known for its cosy vibe and affordable fine dining, Bernini serves lasagna, calamari, and duck entrees. Their happy hour is a local favourite with half-off pasta and $3 martinis. The atmosphere is warm with a mix of historic charm and modern touches, perfect for date nights or casual dinners. If you like Italian food, Bernini is a top pick in Ybor City. For more dining options, explore the best restaurants on the Tampa Riverwalk.
7th and Grove
Best Brunch Spot Restaurants in Ybor City
| ADDRESS: | 1930 E 7th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605 |
| PHONE: | (813) 649-8422 |
| WEBSITE: | 7thandgrove.com |
7th and Grove is a trendy spot that combines Southern comfort food with a lively lounge vibe. Their motto, “Eat, Vibe, Flourish,” says it all. The menu includes deviled eggs with fried chicken, Cuban egg rolls, and fried green tomatoes. The craft cocktails and atmosphere make it great for brunch, dinner, or a night out with friends. If you want bold flavours and a fun vibe, 7th and Grove won’t disappoint.
El Puerto Restaurant and Grill
Best Latin American Restaurants in Ybor City
| ADDRESS: | 1623 E 5th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605 |
| PHONE: | (813) 248-8222 |
| WEBSITE: | elpuertoybor.com |
El Puerto Restaurant and Grill is a family-owned gem serving Latin American cuisine with an Argentine and Cuban twist. Off the beaten path on 7th Avenue, it’s a cosy spot with roast pork, oysters and Cuban sandwiches. The food is good and the prices are fair, perfect for a casual meal. If you want real Latin food, El Puerto is the way to go.
Casa Santo Stefano
Best Rooftop Bar Restaurants in Ybor City
| ADDRESS: | 1607 N 22nd St, Tampa, FL 33605 |
| PHONE: | (813) 248-1925 |
| WEBSITE: | casasantostefano.com |
Sicilian cuisine in Ybor City with a nod to Tampa’s Cuban influences. Located in a beautifully restored 1925 macaroni factory. Pasta, steaks, seafood, Sicilian wines. Popular dishes: Calamari Fritti, Casarecce Bolognese. Santo’s Drinkeria on the rooftop for drinks with a view. An elegant setting for celebrations or romantic dinners. For more Cuban-inspired dining, check out the best Cuban restaurants in Tampa.
The Bricks of Ybor
Best House-Made Food Restaurants in Ybor City
| ADDRESS: | 1327 E 7th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605 |
| PHONE: | (813) 247-1785 |
| WEBSITE: | thebricksybor.com |
Unique spot with a creative menu of café classics, barbecue, and food truck-style dishes. Everything is made in-house: sauces to desserts. They even grow their own vegetables on the rooftop. Try the Bird and Pig: roasted chicken, bacon, apples, brie or the Deluxe Grilled Cheese: pesto and spinach. The laid-back vibe for casual dining. If you like creative eats, The Bricks is a must-try.
Sushi House
Best Affordable Sushi Restaurants in Ybor City
| ADDRESS: | 1901 N 19th St, Tampa, FL 33605 |
| PHONE: | (813) 248-2333 |
| WEBSITE: | yborcitysushihouse |
It is a known but delightful spot for sushi lovers in Ybor City. Sushi House offers a wide range of sushi rolls, sashimi, and Japanese dishes in a simple setting. It uses fresh ingredients and has budget-friendly prices. It is great for lunch or dinner. If you want sushi without the price tag, Sushi House is the way to go. For more sushi spots, explore the best sushi restaurants in Tampa.
Samurai Blue Sushi & Sake Bar
Best Stylish Dining Restaurants in Ybor City
| ADDRESS: | 1600 E 8th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605 |
| PHONE: | (813) 242-6688 |
| WEBSITE: | samuraiblue.com |
Modern Japanese restaurant with a glowing sushi bar and high ceilings. Fresh sushi rolls like the Red Devil Roll and Soft Shell Crab Roll. Entrees like Tonkatsu. Impressive sake list, and the staff will help you pair drinks with your meal. Chic yet relaxed vibe for date nights or special occasions. If you love sushi, Samurai Blue is one of Ybor’s best.
Gaspars Grotto
Best Party Atmosphere Restaurants in Ybor City
| ADDRESS: | 1805 E 7th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605 |
| PHONE: | (813) 248-5900 |
| WEBSITE: | gasparsgrotto.com |
Pirate-themed restaurant and bar that celebrates Tampa’s Gasparilla year-round. Three large bar areas, live music, and a fun atmosphere. Great for groups. The menu includes Tampa favourites: Cuban sandwiches, deviled crab, and hot wings. They serve breakfast, a rarity in Ybor City. For a pirate-themed dining experience, Gaspar’s Grotto is the place to go.
Reservoir Bar
Best Affordable Eats Restaurants in Ybor City
| ADDRESS: | 1518 E 7th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605 |
| PHONE: | (813) 248-1442 |
| WEBSITE: | resbarybor.com |
More than a bar, a local hangout with a solid food menu. Dive bar vibe, tasty bar food: burgers, tacos, specialty cocktails with a Cuban twist. Casual atmosphere and affordable prices. Locals love it. If you want to eat and drink and be laid back, Reservoir Bar is the way to go.
La Segunda Central Bakery
Best Historic Bakery Restaurants in Ybor City
| ADDRESS: | 2512 N 15th St, Tampa, FL 33605 |
| PHONE: | (813) 248-1531 |
| WEBSITE: | lasegundabakery.com |
La Segunda Central Bakery has been a Ybor City institution since 1915. Their Cuban bread is famous. Their Cuban sandwiches (ham, pork, salami, Swiss cheese, pickles, mustard) are legendary. Pastries, cookies, and coffee for breakfast or a quick snack. Lines can be long, but worth the wait. If you want to taste Tampa, La Segunda is a must. For more taco options, check out the best tacos in Tampa.
Los Chapos Tacos
Best Mexican Street Food Restaurants in Ybor City
| ADDRESS: | 951 E 7th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605 |
| PHONE: | (813) 227-8999 |
| WEBSITE: | loschapostacos.com |
Los Chapos Tacos is a laid-back, counter-serve spot serving bold Mexican street food. Birria tacos are a favourite, packed with flavour and fresh ingredients. The menu also includes burritos, quesadillas and esquites (Mexican street corn). The open-air vibe is perfect for a casual meal. Note they’re closed on Sundays. If you’re in the mood for tacos, Los Chapos is a top choice.
Final Thought
Ybor City’s dining scene is a delicious mix of history, culture, and creativity. From the iconic Columbia Restaurant to the trendy 7th and Grove, each restaurant is special. Whether you’re in the mood for Cuban, Italian, Southern, or Japanese food, Ybor City has it all. These 12 restaurants showcase the neighbourhood’s diverse flavours and vibe; it’s a foodie’s paradise. Next time you’re in Tampa, make sure to check out these gems and experience the heart of Ybor City.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the oldest restaurant in Ybor City?
Columbia Restaurant, opened in 1905, is the oldest restaurant in Ybor City and Florida. It’s known for its Spanish-Cuban cuisine and historic charm.
Are there vegetarian options at Ybor City restaurants?
Yes, many restaurants, such as The Bricks of Ybor and 7th and Grove, offer vegetarian and plant-based options, such as Deluxe Grilled Cheese and fried green tomatoes.
Which Ybor City restaurant is best for date night?
Samurai Blue Sushi & Sake Bar is a great choice for date night. It has a chic atmosphere, fresh sushi, and an extensive sake menu. Bernini of Ybor also has a romantic, cosy vibe and happy hour deals.
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