Best Cuban restaurants in Tampa [2024]

Welcome to the vibrant culinary scene of Tampa, where you can embark on a delightful journey through the flavors of Cuba. In this article, we’ll take you on a mouthwatering tour of the Best Cuban Restaurants in Tampa. From sizzling succulent meats to aromatic spices and delectable desserts, these establishments offer an authentic taste of Cuba right in the heart of Florida. Whether you’re a local craving a taste of home or a visitor eager to explore new culinary horizons, these Cuban restaurants are sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more.

La Teresita Restaurant

Address: 3248 W Columbus Dr, Tampa, FL 33607
Phone: +1 (813) 879-9704
Website: lateresitarestaurant.com
Details: $, Cuban restaurant

La Teresita Restaurant in Tampa is a hidden gem for those craving authentic Spanish cuisine. As soon as you step in, you’ll be transported back to the comforting flavors of your grandmother’s kitchen. The portions are generous, ensuring you’ll have leftovers to savor later. What sets this place apart is its affordable prices, making it a delightful option for any budget.

The staff at La Teresita Restaurant is known for their warm and friendly demeanor, always welcoming you with a smile. While the atmosphere may not be fancy, it adds to the charm of this long-standing Cuban-owned establishment, which has been a beloved part of Tampa for over 40 years. Whether you choose the sit-down restaurant, the takeout option, or the adjacent cafeteria, you’re guaranteed a scrumptious dining experience.

The menu at La Teresita Restaurant offers a wide variety of mouthwatering choices. From the outstanding Cuban sandwich to the delicious fried plantains and yucca with sauce, every dish bursts with authentic flavors. Don’t forget to save room for their delectable pastries. Whether you’re seeking a quick bite or a hearty meal, the prices remain reasonable, and the service is quick and efficient.

La Teresita Restaurant is not just a place to dine; it’s an experience that captures the essence of Cuban cuisine. Located near Ybor City, it’s the perfect alternative when other restaurants are packed. Despite its bustling atmosphere, the service remains prompt, and the food is consistently delicious. Indulge in their stuffed ripe plantain, rice with red beans, or tender pork dishes. The flan is simply to die for, completing your culinary journey at this exceptional establishment.

With great food, friendly service, and excellent pricing, La Teresita Restaurant is the go-to spot for authentic Cuban cuisine in Tampa. Enjoy the lively ambiance, whether you choose a seat at the counter or explore the main dining room. Treat yourself to classic Spanish dishes like Cuban coffee and flan, or opt for their popular Russian trout with collard green soup and fried plantains. With an array of options and attentive staff, La Teresita guarantees a memorable dining experience you’ll want to relive time and time again.

Columbia Cafe – Riverwalk Tampa

Address: 801 Water St #1905, Tampa, FL 33602
Phone: +1 (813) 229-5511
Website: columbiarestaurant.com
Details: $$, Spanish restaurant

Located in downtown Tampa, Columbia Cafe – Riverwalk Tampa offers a delightful dining experience with great food and scenic views. Although it may not be the original Columbia, the food here is fantastic and the atmosphere is inviting. Whether you choose to sit outside or inside, the restaurant staff provides exceptional service, attending to your needs with friendliness and attentiveness.

The menu at Columbia Cafe features a range of delectable options, including their renowned Cuban sandwiches and Spanish bean soup. The portion sizes are generous, ensuring you’ll leave satisfied. The servers are well-trained and engaging, creating a welcoming dining experience from start to finish. And don’t miss out on the signature “1905” Salad® – a Columbia tradition that is sure to please your taste buds.

With its waterfront location by the Tampa Bay History Center, Columbia Cafe offers a beautiful setting for a memorable meal. The restaurant staff goes above and beyond to accommodate large groups, ensuring everyone feels welcomed and taken care of. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely lunch or a relaxing evening, the combination of outstanding food, excellent service, and a picturesque environment make Columbia Cafe a must-visit spot in Tampa.

From the courteous and attentive staff to the delicious dishes and lovely ambiance, Columbia Cafe – Riverwalk Tampa offers an exceptional dining experience. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this restaurant is worth a visit. Treat yourself to their flavorful Cuban cuisine, indulge in the famous “1905” Salad®, and savor the warm bread and soft butter. With outstanding service and a menu that satisfies every palate, Columbia Cafe is a true gem in the heart of Tampa.

Columbia Restaurant

Address: 2117 E 7th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605
Phone: +1 (813) 248-4961
Website: columbiarestaurant.com/Menus-By-Location/Locations/Ybor-City-Historic-District
Details: $$$, Spanish restaurant

Columbia Restaurant in Tampa offers an exceptional dining experience with its delicious food, beautiful atmosphere, and attentive staff. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a meal with friends, the restaurant is sure to leave a lasting impression. The menu boasts a variety of mouthwatering options, from the famous Cuban sandwich to the flavorful paella and delectable 1905 salad. The dishes are prepared with care and served with impeccable attention to detail.

The staff at Columbia Restaurant goes above and beyond to ensure a memorable dining experience. From knowledgeable servers who offer recommendations to friendly waiters who make you feel welcome, the service is top-notch. The restaurant’s ambiance exudes old-school charm, transporting you to a time when dining out was a special occasion. With beautiful decor, white tablecloths, and a friendly vibe, the atmosphere adds to the overall dining experience.

Whether you choose to indulge in tapas or enjoy a full-course meal, Columbia Restaurant guarantees a wonderful culinary journey. From the flavorful shrimp and crab tapas to the mouthwatering grouper with yellow rice, every dish is prepared with care and attention to detail. The sangria is a must-try, and don’t forget to save room for the delicious churros served with guava and caramel sauces. With excellent service, delicious food, and a great value for your money, Columbia Restaurant is a dining destination that won’t disappoint.

Hemingway’s Modern Cuban Cuisine

Address: 1910 N Ola Ave, Tampa, FL 33602
Phone: +1 (813) 435-6482
Website: hemingwaystpa.com
Details: $$, Cuban restaurant

Hemingway’s Modern Cuban Cuisine offers a unique and fantastic take on Cuban cuisine in a comfortable and modern setting. The restaurant stands out with its radiance, comfort, and friendly atmosphere. From the moment you walk in, you’ll be greeted with warmth and a welcoming ambiance. The menu at Hemingway’s showcases a range of dishes that stay true to Cuban culinary traditions while offering a modern twist. For example, their ‘El Ultimo’ sandwich is a delightful interpretation of the classic ‘Pan con Bistec,’ featuring thinly sliced Palomilla steak, caramelized onions, gooey cheese, and a cilantro garlic sauce on toasted Cuban bread. The ‘Hemingway Cuban’ is another standout, combining roasted pork, salami, sweet ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and a special, ultra-exceptional sauce. Hemingway’s also offers an array of Cuban delights, including tostones rellenos, croquetas, black bean dishes, and their outstanding ‘Cuban Firewater’ hot sauce for those who enjoy a spicy kick. The flavorful and delectable food, along with the remarkable sauces and seasonings, make Hemingway’s a must-visit for Cuban cuisine enthusiasts.

The friendly and attentive staff at Hemingway’s Modern Cuban Cuisine contribute to a pleasurable dining experience. The bartender, Chuck, is known for his excellent service, delicious cafe con leche, and providing helpful recommendations about the local area. Whether you’re sitting at the bar or enjoying a meal at a table, the staff goes above and beyond to ensure you feel welcome and well taken care of. The restaurant itself is housed in a warehouse-like space, shared with other eateries, but the focus remains on the outstanding food and exceptional service. After savoring your meal at Hemingway’s, take a leisurely walk around the beautiful surrounding area, further enhancing your overall experience.

If you’re seeking the best Cuban sandwich in town, Hemingway’s is the place to go. The large and flavor-packed sandwich is a true standout, with each of the three meats providing a strong and delicious taste. Accompanied by crispy yucca fries and earthy black beans and rice, the meal is a true delight. Hemingway’s also offers tasty tostones rellenos and mixed sangria that are beyond delicious. The attentive and happy wait staff further enhances the dining experience, making your visit to Hemingway’s an absolute pleasure. With fair prices and an inviting atmosphere, Hemingway’s Modern Cuban Cuisine is a go-to destination for a fulfilling and flavorful dining experience.

Monserrate Restaurant Bar & Grill

Address: 2311 W Hillsborough Ave, Tampa, FL 33603
Phone: +1 (813) 878-2466
Website: facebook.com/MonserrateRestaurantTampa
Details: $$, Colombian restaurant

Monserrate Restaurant Bar & Grill offers simply good Latin comfort food at an excellent price, providing a delightful dining experience. The staff is known for their wonderful service, creating a welcoming atmosphere for guests. The menu showcases a range of dishes that are flavorful and generously portioned. From the Bandeja Paisa, a country platter, to the mouthwatering appetizer wings and Monfongo Mixta, every dish is bursting with authentic Latin flavors. The food is skillfully prepared, with attention to detail and a perfect balance of seasonings. The chicharrones are crispy and succulent, the flank steak is flavorful and fulfilling, and the cream sauce used in their Monfongo is light yet rich, creating a delightful dining experience. The restaurant has been serving satisfied customers for over 11 years and continues to impress with its exceptional service and delicious food.

Monserrate Restaurant Bar & Grill is a hidden gem, often overlooked, but loved by those who discover it. The staff, including the friendly server Mimi, goes above and beyond to ensure that every guest feels welcomed and attended to. The ambiance is eclectic and authentic, creating a unique and enjoyable dining atmosphere. With its affordable prices and large servings, this restaurant is perfect for lunch or dinner. Whether you’re craving tasty Latin American food or searching for authentic flavors, Monserrate is the place to be. The restaurant’s commitment to hospitality and quality dishes makes it a highly recommended dining destination in Tampa.

Guests rave about the delicious food and excellent service at Monserrate Restaurant Bar & Grill. The authentic Latin dishes, such as the fried fish with french fries and rice, and the Seafood Rice, reminiscent of paella, are flavorful and reminiscent of homemade meals. The menu offers a wide variety of choices, catering to diverse tastes. The restaurant’s affordability and friendly atmosphere make it a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Whether you’re seeking Latin American cuisine or want to experience the taste of Colombia, Monserrate Restaurant Bar & Grill is the perfect place to satisfy your cravings.

The Cuban Sandwich Shop

Address: 10434 N Florida Ave, Tampa, FL 33612
Phone: +1 (813) 932-0998
Website: thecubansandwichshop.com/#
Details: $, Sandwich shop

The Cuban Sandwich Shop is a hidden gem that offers great food and exceptional service. It’s a perfect little shop where everything comes together nicely. The prices are modest, making it an affordable dining option without compromising on quality. The staff provides incredible service, ensuring a pleasant dining experience for every customer. The menu features traditional Cuban food in a relaxed and informal setting. The Cuban sandwich, in both regular and large sizes, is a must-try, filled with delicious flavors and served pressed all the way. The breakfast options are also highly recommended, with great-tasting food at an inexpensive price.

Customers who have been coming to The Cuban Sandwich Shop for years continue to love it to this day. It’s a go-to place for quick business lunches or a satisfying Cuban sandwich to go. The Cuban toast is highly praised, known to be the best in town. The menu offers a variety of options, and everything smells and looks great. The prices are reasonable, making it a favorite among locals. With over 15 years of serving delicious meals, The Cuban Sandwich Shop has established itself as a reliable and beloved eatery in Tampa.

For those looking for a quick, casual dining experience, The Cuban Sandwich Shop is the perfect choice. It’s a place where you can enjoy a tasty meal without overthinking it. The food is consistently good, and the prices are among the most reasonable in town. Whether you’re stopping by for a business lunch, grabbing a Cuban sandwich to go, or having a relaxed Sunday morning breakfast, The Cuban Sandwich Shop is a reliable option that never disappoints. With friendly service and a menu that caters to various preferences, it’s a place worth visiting time and time again.

Cuban Foodies

Address: 13855 W Hillsborough Ave, Tampa, FL 33635
Phone: +1 (813) 475-4493
Website: cubanfoodies.com
Details: $, Cuban restaurant

Cuban Foodies is a delightful Cuban restaurant that offers excellent food and authentic flavors. The menu features a variety of dishes that are freshly made and bursting with flavor. From the Arroz con Pollo to the Cubano sandwich, every item hits the spot and leaves customers satisfied. The service is top-notch, with friendly and eager-to-please waitstaff who ensure a pleasant dining experience.

This hidden gem is a true culinary gem, where you can indulge in delicious food to your heart’s content. The Arroz con Pollo is particularly outstanding, with a homemade taste that is unmatched. The Ropa Vieja, Moros, yuca/mojo, and other dishes are equally delectable and leave a lasting impression. Whether dining in or opting for takeout, Cuban Foodies delivers great food and is highly recommended.

The restaurant has gained a loyal following, with customers returning for the delicious food and friendly service. The tostones, croquetas, black beans, plantain bites, and yuca fries are all mouthwatering. The Cuban sandwich, known as the best in Tampa, is a must-try. Every dish at Cuban Foodies is prepared with care and attention to detail, ensuring a memorable dining experience. Visit Cuban Foodies and savor the flavors of authentic Cuban cuisine that will leave you craving more.

Pepo’s Cafe

Address: 3879 Northdale Blvd, Tampa, FL 33624
Phone: +1 (813) 269-7476
Website: peposcafe.com
Details: $, Cuban restaurant

Pepo’s Cafe is a local Cuban restaurant that offers an exceptional dining experience. Known for having the best Cuban sandwich in town, they also have a little secret—the yucca and sauce are absolutely amazing and have become a regular part of many customers’ orders. The flavors are outstanding, and the taste is unparalleled. The restaurant’s commitment to providing a memorable culinary experience is evident.

For breakfast, Pepo’s Cafe is the perfect stop. They offer both buffet-style take-out options and sit-down service. Although the restaurant can get busy, the staff remains friendly and attentive. The food is delicious, with a variety of options to choose from, and the coffee is satisfying. Pepo’s Cafe is highly recommended, and the reasonable prices make it even more appealing. Whether you opt for take-out or dine-in, you can expect a delightful breakfast experience.

The Cuban sandwiches at Pepo’s Cafe are a standout, with the pressed sandwich technique making the bread crispy and flaky. Accompanied by flavorful black beans and rice, as well as delicious fried plantains, the meal is a true delight. The service is friendly and the overall experience leaves customers wanting to return. Pepo’s Cafe is known for staying true to their original recipes, and the Cuban roast pork stands out as one of the best. The flavors are authentic and the dishes are executed with skill, providing good, solid food that satisfies.

7th + Grove

Address: 1930 E 7th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605
Phone: +1 (813) 649-8422
Website: 7thandgrove.com/ybor-location
Details: $$, Southern restaurant (US)

7th + Grove is a true gem in the Ybor Community, offering an elegant yet relaxed atmosphere that elevates your dining experience. The staff is well-trained, exuding a joyful spirit that adds to the welcoming ambiance. The food at 7th + Grove is simply outstanding, with each dish prepared to order and bursting with flavor. From the Deviled Eggs topped with chicken to the Parmesan Garlic fries and the delectable Cry Me A River catfish nuggets, every item on the menu is crave-worthy. The extensive drink selection includes delicious cocktails like the “Snoh Aelegra” and the “Doja Cat,” perfectly complementing the flavorful dishes.

During brunch, the restaurant continues to impress with dishes such as the perfectly executed shrimp and grits and the mouthwatering fried chicken with a poached egg. The appetizers, including the fried green tomatoes and the mac and cheese balls, are also favorites among patrons. The attention to detail extends to the drinks, with creative concoctions infused with Kool-Aid and generous pours. The chic and fashionable interior, adorned with murals, adds to the overall appeal, creating a chic lounge atmosphere that perfectly matches the quality of the food and drinks.

Whether you visit for brunch or dinner, 7th + Grove promises a memorable experience. The eclectic vibe, reminiscent of Miami‘s Wynwood, is trendy and inviting. The menu offers a variety of options to suit different tastes, and the friendly staff, including the attentive server Gahana, ensures that you are well taken care of throughout your visit. Don’t miss out on the chance to dine at 7th + Grove and fully appreciate the exceptional ambiance and delectable food it has to offer.

In conclusion, Tampa is home to some of the best Cuban restaurants that offer a culinary journey through the vibrant flavors of Cuban cuisine. From the mouthwatering Cuban sandwiches to the traditional Arroz con Pollo and Ropa Vieja, these restaurants showcase the rich and authentic flavors that make Cuban food so beloved. With their warm and welcoming atmospheres, attentive staff, and menus that cater to every palate, these establishments truly embody the essence of Cuban hospitality. Whether you’re a local or a visitor to Tampa, exploring the city’s Cuban culinary scene is a must for any food enthusiast looking to indulge in a delightful gastronomic experience.