Columbia Restaurant

Cuisine: European, Spanish

Last updated on October 14, 2022

Price Range: $$

10Best Says

More than just a restaurant, the Columbia is a Tampa institution. Since 1905, this living history lesson has been serving some of the most authentic Spanish/Cuban food in Tampa Bay. The menu is extensive, spanning a wide array of traditional beef, pork, and seafood dishes made in the same way for generations. Today there are several locations in Florida, but the flagship restaurant is still located in the heart of Tampa's historic district, Ybor City. The building is Spanish revival with Moorish influences and features hand-painted tiles, ornate antiques and rich fabrics throughout. The restaurant has been added on to over the years and now encompasses an entire city block featuring 15 dining rooms that seat over 1,700 patrons. The Columbia also hosts Flamenco shows every evening except Sundays. No one forgets a night at the Columbia.

Address:

2117 E 7th Ave
Tampa, FL 33605

Phone:

813-248-4961

Website:

columbiarestaurant.com

EXPERT TIPS BY: Skye Rodgers
Tampa Local Expert

Ybor City's Best Restaurants: "The unique Flamenco show runs twice nightly except for Sundays - reservations are recommended."
Best Restaurants: "Ask for seating in the main dining room to experience their unique Flamenco show that runs twice nightly except for Sundays."
Romantic Dining: "The unique Flamenco show runs in the main dining room twice nightly except for Sundays."
Group Friendly, Restaurants with Gluten-Free Menus: "The unique Flamenco show runs twice nightly except for Sundays."

Best for Ybor City's Best Restaurants Because: The legendary Columbia Restaurant is the heartbeat of historic Ybor City and offers an extensive menu of Spanish and Cuban favorites.
Recommended as Best Restaurants Because: The Columbia Restaurant in Ybor City is Florida's oldest restaurant with an extensive menu of authentic Cuban and Spanish dishes.
Best for Romantic Dining Because: Tampa's landmark Columbia Restaurant, featuring romantic ambiance and passionate Flamenco dancing, is guaranteed to get the heart pumping faster.
Best for Group Friendly Because: Traditional Tampa dining at its best, the elegant Columbia Restaurant also offers a complete selection of group services and amenities.
Best for Restaurants with Gluten-Free Menus Because: The Columbia is Tampa's most famous restaurant and offers a large selection of gluten free menu items.