The Oldest Restaurant In Florida, Columbia, Has A Truly Incredible History
The restaurant business is tough, with so many places closing just as quickly as they open. That just makes it even more incredible that a restaurant could continue to run for more than 110 years. The Columbia Restaurant in the historic Ybor City neighborhood of Tampa is not only the oldest restaurant in Florida – it’s the oldest Spanish eatery in the country! If you’ve never visited this local institution, what are you waiting for? A world of flavor awaits!
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Columbia Restaurant has stood the test of time, and it's equally amazing that this restaurant has remained in the same family for more than a century.
Though it began in 1905 as a little cafe serving Cuban fare for Ybor City's cigar workers, over the years, it gradually expanded (even during the Great Depression).
Ybor City struggled in the 1950s and '60s, but Columbia Restaurant stayed strong by building the Siboney Room, which hosted some of the top Latin entertainers of the time.
Columbia Restaurant has not only expanded in Ybor City - there are several other locations throughout Florida serving some of the best authentic Cuban and Spanish dishes in the state.
Have you ever eaten at Columbia Restaurant in Florida? What’s your favorite dish on the menu? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below! And if you know another wonderful historic eatery in The Sunshine State, nominate it for a chance to be featured in a future article.
Address: 98 St George St, St. Augustine, FL 32084, USA
Address: 411 St Armands Cir, Sarasota, FL 34236, USA
Address: 1241 Gulf Blvd, Clearwater, FL 33767, USA
Address: 649 Front St, Celebration, FL 34747, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
oldest restaurant in Florida
December 14, 2020
Elisa Regulski
What are the best Cuban restaurants in Florida?
For some excellent Cuban sandwiches, visit Enriqueta’s Sandwich Shop in Miami. This no-frills eatery has impressed diners for years, and it’s easy to see why. You don’t want to pass this place by!
What are the oldest restaurants in Florida?
If you love visiting Florida’s historic eateries, you’ll definitely want to dine at Little Drug Co. in New Smyrna Beach. This retro eatery serves classic comfort food in an old school atmosphere. In fact – it’s the oldest lunch counter in Florida!
What are the best Mexican restaurants in Florida?
Pancho’s Villa, located in San Antonio, is one of the best Meican restaurants in Florida. You may have to wait to get a table here, but we promise it’s worth it. Everything on the menu is full of delicious flavor. Go ahead and order a margarita and savor the experience. For some old school tacos, visit Mi Rinconcito Mexicano in Miami. These authentic dishes won’t break the bank either! Bring your appetite and chow down — you won’t regret it.
Address: 2117 E 7th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605, USA
Address: 98 St George St, St. Augustine, FL 32084, USA
Address: 411 St Armands Cir, Sarasota, FL 34236, USA
Address: 1241 Gulf Blvd, Clearwater, FL 33767, USA
Address: 649 Front St, Celebration, FL 34747, USA
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