This amazing restaurant in Florida has literally been around forever. And when we say forever—we really mean forever. Over 110 years, forever. Owned and operated by 5 generations, forever. The oldest Spanish restaurant in Florida, forever. Okay, you probably get the point. But in case you haven’t checked out this one-of-a-kind restaurant yet, this is true Florida history at its finest.

Columbia Restaurant is the oldest and largest Spanish restaurant in the entire United States.
TripAdvisor Terry007
Opened as a cafe in 1905 with just a mere 60 seats, this restaurant in Historic Ybor City soon became a mecca for Spanish cuisine.
TripAdvisor management
Throughout the years, celebrities, world figures, and a host of food lovers have come through the doors to grab an authentic taste of Spanish food.
TripAdvisor Mulan H.
During the height of the Great Depression in the 1930s, the Casimiro family took a chance and ended up building the very first air-conditioned dining room in Tampa, complete with a dance floor.
Tree Hopper8705
Today, visitors can enjoy a live Flamenco dance from professional dancers who move and shake to the rhythm of the warm nights.
TripAdvisor World Traveler Tampa
The spectacle, flavors, and atmosphere make this historic eatery one of the most unique restaurants in Florida.
But there is so much more to enjoying the experience of Columbia Restaurant beyond the history and the Flamenco.
TripAdvisor Judy K.

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The menu is filled with tried-and-true Spanish favorites, like the Sangria which is made table-side. with the utmost care.
TripAdvisor djmikel
Or the Original Cuban Sandwich, pressed to perfection, honoring the cigar workers in the 1890s who walked to and from work, sandwich in hand.
TripAdvisor jackblack81
Spanish favorites pepper the menu, from a bevy of tapas options (two pages worth) to fresh fish, seared steaks, and a 30-minute paella that will knock your socks off.
TripAdvisor utmsu2000
Get ready to chow down on scrumptious dishes. If you're looking for Spanish food in Florida, this is the place to go.
You can even take home a collectible Sangria pitcher to enjoy making this sweet wine cocktail at home.
TripAdvisor Melanie L.
Make sure to polish off the meal with a creamy, custardy, sweet slice of homemade flan.
TripAdvisor Melanie L.
Everything about the dining experience at the first Spanish restaurant in Florida is worth the trip to visit.
TripAdvisor Darryl P.
With plenty of other locations which have popped up in the state over the years, we’re still partial to the Historic Ybor city location.
TripAdvisor JBE

If you’re ready to indulge in a delicious history, the address for Columbia Restaurant is 2117 E 7th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605-3903. The oldest Spanish restaurant in Florida is open Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. To find out more information about this historic restaurant, visit the website.

Meanwhile, if you’re going to be in the area, it’s only right that you learn some of the most fascinating history surrounding Ybor City.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

oldest Spanish restaurant in Florida

Elisa Regulski | February 23, 2020

What are the oldest restaurants in Florida?

Little Drug Co, located in New Smyrna Beach, is one of the oldest restaurants in Florida. This nostalgic lunch counter dates all the way back to the 1920s, and it’s so much fun to visit. The white and black checkered floor, bright bar stools, and retro signs will take you back to another era. If you have a mighty sweet tooth, you’ll be pleased to hear their sundaes are out-of-this-world. Believe us, you’re going to love every last thing about this old-school eatery in Florida.

What are the most unique restaurants in Florida?

Dewey Destin’s Harborside is one of the most unique restaurants in Florida. Families love relaxing by the seaside and munching on the catch of the day. What really makes this place cool, though, is the structure. This restaurant is two stories tall and has astonishing views of the beach. If you want another unique dining experience, visit Norwood's Eatery and Treehouse Bar. You’ll feel like you’re lounging in a woodland paradise when you dine here.

What are the best Mexican restaurants in Florida?

Columbia Restaurant serves some of the best Spanish food in Florida, but if you’re craving something with a Tex Mex twist, you have plenty of options as well. Mi Rinconcito Mexicano, located in Miami, serves some of the best taco and burrito platters you’ve ever tasted. Bring your appetite -- these dishes are filling. You’ll also love Agave Azul in Orlando. This restaurant has a bright and welcoming atmosphere that always feels like a party.

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Columbia Restaurant, 2117 E 7th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605, USA