Credits to Lisa Fotios
Tampa, Florida, is known for its rich history, and one of the ways that this history is reflected is through its oldest restaurants. These restaurants have stood the test of time and continue to serve delicious food to locals and tourists alike. Here are some of the oldest restaurants in Tampa, FL:
- The Columbia Restaurant
The Columbia Restaurant is the oldest restaurant in Tampa, having been founded in 1905 by Cuban immigrant Casimiro Hernandez, Sr. The restaurant started as a small café and has since grown to become a beloved Tampa institution, serving traditional Spanish and Cuban cuisine. The restaurant is also known for its flamenco shows, which have been a staple of the Tampa dining scene since the 1930s. - Bern’s Steak House
Bern’s Steak House is another iconic Tampa restaurant that has been around for over 60 years. The restaurant was founded in 1956 by Bern Laxer and has since become famous for its dry-aged steaks, extensive wine collection, and unique dining experience. Bern’s is known for its eclectic décor, with each of its 13 dining rooms featuring a different theme. - La Tropicana Café
La Tropicana Café is a Cuban café that has been serving authentic Cuban cuisine in Tampa since 1963. The café was founded by Cuban immigrant Carmen Martinez and has been family-owned and operated ever since. La Tropicana Café is known for its Cuban sandwiches, café con leche, and other traditional Cuban dishes. - The Floridian
The Floridian is a historic restaurant located in the Ybor City neighborhood of Tampa. The restaurant was founded in 1909 and has since become a favorite of locals and tourists alike. The Floridian is known for its Spanish and Cuban dishes, as well as its famous deviled crab. - Ulele
Ulele is a relatively new addition to the Tampa dining scene, having opened in 2014. However, the restaurant is located in the historic Water Works building, which was built in 1903 and was once a pumping station for the city’s water supply. The restaurant is known for its fresh seafood, craft beers, and unique dining experience. - Skipper’s Smokehouse
Skipper’s Smokehouse is a Tampa institution that has been serving up live music and delicious seafood for over 30 years. The restaurant was founded in 1980 and has since become a favorite of locals and tourists alike. Skipper’s is known for its smoked mullet, grouper sandwiches, and eclectic décor. - Osteria Natalina
Osteria Natalina is a family-owned Italian restaurant that has been serving authentic Italian cuisine in Tampa since 2005. The restaurant is located in a historic bungalow in the Seminole Heights neighborhood and is known for its homemade pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and extensive wine list. - The Refinery
The Refinery is a farm-to-table restaurant located in the Seminole Heights neighborhood of Tampa. The restaurant was founded in 2010 and has since become a favorite of foodies and locals alike. The Refinery is known for its innovative cuisine, creative cocktails, and commitment to using locally-sourced, sustainable ingredients. - The Oxford Exchange
The Oxford Exchange is a unique dining and shopping destination located in a historic building in downtown Tampa. The building was originally built in 1891 and has since been restored and transformed into a modern-day marketplace. The Oxford Exchange features a restaurant, café, bookstore, and gift shop, as well as a stunning glass conservatory.
In conclusion, Tampa, FL, is home to a variety of historic restaurants that have been serving up delicious food for decades. From traditional Spanish and Cuban cuisine to farm-to-table and innovative cuisine, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant dining scene. These restaurants are not only known for their delicious food but also for their unique and charming atmosphere that reflects the rich history of Tampa. - The Tampa Bay Brewing Company
The Tampa Bay Brewing Company is a craft brewery and restaurant that has been serving up its signature brews and delicious pub fare since 1995. The restaurant is located in the heart of Ybor City, which was once the cigar capital of the world. The Tampa Bay Brewing Company is known for its award-winning beers, such as the Reef Donkey American Pale Ale and the Old Elephant Foot IPA. - The Brocato’s Sandwich Shop
The Brocato’s Sandwich Shop is a family-owned and operated sandwich shop that has been serving up classic Italian sandwiches in Tampa since 1948. The restaurant is located in the historic Ybor City neighborhood and is known for its homemade bread, Italian meats, and cheeses. - Datz
Datz is a popular restaurant located in the South Tampa neighborhood that has been serving up gourmet comfort food since 2009. The restaurant is known for its creative dishes, such as the Mac n’ Cheeseburger and the Lobster Poutine, as well as its extensive selection of craft beers and cocktails. Datz also features a market that sells gourmet cheeses, meats, and other specialty items. - The Bavarian Lodge
The Bavarian Lodge is a German restaurant located in the heart of Lutz that has been serving up traditional German cuisine for over 20 years. The restaurant is known for its hearty portions of schnitzel, sausages, and other German specialties, as well as its selection of German beers and wines. - Pane Rustica
Pane Rustica is an artisan bakery and café located in South Tampa that has been serving up fresh bread, pastries, and other baked goods since 1999. The café also serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, featuring a variety of sandwiches, salads, and other gourmet dishes. - Wright’s Gourmet House
Wright’s Gourmet House is a family-owned and operated sandwich shop that has been serving up classic sandwiches and other deli favorites in Tampa since 1963. The restaurant is known for its homemade bread, fresh ingredients, and friendly service.
Tampa’s oldest restaurants provide a unique and delicious glimpse into the city’s rich culinary history. From traditional Cuban and Spanish cuisine to innovative farm-to-table and gourmet comfort food, these restaurants have stood the test of time and continue to delight locals and visitors alike.
