13 Spanish Restaurants In Tampa Florida

Tampa, Florida’s vibrant culinary scene reflects diverse cultural influences. With a melting pot of heritages and traditions, it offers an array of flavors, including standout Spanish cuisine. Known for its rich history, distinct tastes, and unique blend of Mediterranean influences, Spanish cuisine is a highlight in Tampa’s gastronomic landscape.

This article highlights 13 exceptional Spanish restaurants in Tampa, delving into their offerings and authentic culinary journeys. These restaurants showcase traditional dishes while incorporating modern twists and innovative techniques for an enhanced dining experience.

These profiles provide detailed descriptions of menu items, atmosphere, and service quality at each Spanish restaurant, offering readers a vivid picture of Tampa’s thriving Spanish food scene. 

Alongside signature dishes like paella and tapas, personal anecdotes from patrons provide insights into local dining customs and preferences, creating a comprehensive overview of Tampa’s enticing array of Spanish eateries.

Columbia Restaurant

Established in 1905, Columbia Restaurant in Tampa, Florida, is a must-visit dining destination for those seeking authentic Spanish cuisine and culture. It offers a rich experience with traditional flavors and an unparalleled atmosphere.

The Columbia Restaurant in Tampa FL, located in Ybor City, is an iconic Spanish eatery known for over a century as one of the city’s best. Its historic architecture, elegant interior design, and rich cultural ambiance offer guests a unique dining experience that immerses them in the essence of Spain.

Patrons can indulge in expertly crafted dishes inspired by traditional Spanish recipes. The extensive menu showcases classic favorites like paella, tapas, seafood specialties, and regional delights that capture the diverse flavors of Spain.

Columbia Restaurant is a must-visit for those seeking traditional Spanish food in Tampa Bay. Besides serving delicious fare, this beloved institution enriches the cultural landscape of downtown Tampa with live flamenco performances and art exhibitions showcasing local talent.

The combination of exquisite cuisine and engaging entertainment makes Columbia Restaurant an unforgettable destination for anyone looking to immerse themselves fully into Spain’s rich culinary traditions while exploring all that Tampa has to offer.

Miguel’s Mexican Seafood & Grill

Miguel’s Mexican Seafood & Grill is renowned for its authentic Mexican cuisine, offering a diverse menu of fresh seafood dishes and traditional favorites. It provides a delightful dining experience for patrons.

This establishment stands out among new Spanish restaurants in Tampa FL by blending classic and contemporary flavors, catering to a variety of tastes. Alongside their sumptuous seafood dishes, Miguel’s offers an extensive selection of appetizers, entrees, and desserts inspired by Spain and Mexico.

Its proximity to other Spanish restaurants near me makes it convenient for those seeking variety in their culinary adventures.

Miguel’s is renowned as one of Tampa’s best Spanish restaurants, thanks to its dedication to quality ingredients and exceptional service. The cozy ambiance, enhanced by warm lighting and traditional decor, captures the spirit of Mexico.

While Cuban restaurants in Tampa are popular for Caribbean-infused Latin flavors, Miguel’s Mexican Seafood & Grill sets itself apart by uniquely focusing on seafood dishes prepared with traditional techniques and modern twists.

Diners can savor house specialties like Camarones al Ajillo, Pescado Veracruzano, and sizzling hot fajitas. The vibrant atmosphere sets Miguel’s apart from other eateries in the area, creating a memorable dining experience.

Miguelito’s Taqueria Y Tequila

Miguelito’s Taqueria Y Tequila embraces traditional Mexican cuisine, captivating diners with a tantalizing menu, and an extensive selection of tequila. It offers an unforgettable gastronomic experience for all who visit.

Located in Tampa, Florida, this restaurant prides itself on providing authentic flavors and dishes inspired by the rich culinary heritage of Mexico.

The menu showcases a wide range of appetizers, salads, entrees, and desserts that cater to diverse palates while still maintaining the spirit of Mexican cooking.

Among the popular dishes are their signature tacos featuring handmade corn tortillas filled with succulent meats or seafood accompanied by vibrant salsas and garnishes.

Vegetarian options such as mushroom quesadillas or chiles rellenos ensure that there is something for everyone at Miguelito’s.

Miguelito’s Taqueria Y Tequila not only highlights the diverse flavors of Mexico through its food but also offers an impressive array of tequilas in various styles and from different regions of the country.

The knowledgeable staff can guide patrons through a vast collection that includes blanco (unaged), reposado (rested), añejo (aged), and extra añejo varieties among others.

This allows guests to fully immerse themselves in Mexican culture by pairing their meals with complementary beverages that enhance the overall dining experience.

Regular events such as live music performances or themed nights add to the festive atmosphere at Miguelito’s Taqueria Y Tequila, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an authentic taste of Mexico in the Tampa Bay area.

La Teresita Restaurant

La Teresita Restaurant offers a delightful fusion of Cuban and Latin American cuisines, attracting patrons with delectable dishes, warm hospitality, and a vibrant ambiance that celebrates cultural richness.

Established in 1972 by the Capdevila family, this iconic eatery has garnered an esteemed reputation for serving authentic, home-cooked meals at reasonable prices.

The extensive menu features traditional favorites such as ropa vieja, vaca frita, arroz con pollo, and empanadas alongside lesser-known delicacies like moros y cristianos or picadillo.

To further enhance the dining experience, guests can enjoy live music on weekends and indulge in refreshing mojitos or sangrias from the full-service bar.

The restaurant’s nostalgic décor with vintage posters and memorabilia creates a Havana golden-era ambiance. Cozy booths foster a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for conversations among friends and family.

La Teresita Restaurant features a bustling cafeteria alongside its main dining area, ‘El Comedor.’ The cafeteria offers lightning-fast counter-style meals, showcasing the restaurant’s commitment to diverse preferences while maintaining exceptional quality and taste.

With almost five decades of history in Tampa’s culinary scene, La Teresita Restaurant is a beloved institution cherished by locals and tourists. It offers authentic Cuban flavors with a touch of Latin American flair.

España Restaurant & Tapas Bar

España Restaurant & Tapas Bar in Tampa, Florida celebrates Spain’s culinary heritage with exquisite tapas, flavorful paellas, and fine wines. Inspired by diverse regions of Spain, our authentic menu caters to all palates in a warm and inviting setting.

Savor traditional Spanish dishes like patatas bravas, gambas al ajillo, and chorizo al vino in our vibrant, tavern-like atmosphere. Our extensive wine list features renowned selections from Spanish vineyards, showcasing the unique flavors of each region.

España Restaurant & TapaBar not only offers exceptional food but also provides cultural insights into Spanish cuisine. We embrace the tradition of sharing tapas, promoting conversation, camaraderie, and a convivial atmosphere among guests.

Live Flamenco performances on select evenings transport diners to the passionate world of Andalusian music and dance – offering an immersive experience for those who wish to delve deeper into Spanish culture while indulging their taste buds simultaneously.

Bulla Gastrobar

Bulla Gastrobar offers exceptional dining with modern tapas and gastronomic delights. Situated in Tampa’s vibrant food scene, this upscale eatery combines contemporary design with a warm and inviting atmosphere.

It offers an extensive menu of shareable plates inspired by Spanish cuisine. Using fresh ingredients from local purveyors, their dishes include patatas bravas, croquetas de jamón, pulpo a la gallega (Spanish octopus), and their renowned ‘Coca de Costillas’, a flatbread topped with slow-roasted pork ribs.

It boasts a remarkable beverage program featuring wines from Spain’s diverse regions and Spanish-inspired cocktails. The dining experience encourages camaraderie through shared plates, fostering meaningful connections over delicious food and thoughtful libations.

Bulla Gastrobar hosts weekly events like ‘Paella Tuesdays’ where guests enjoy authentic paella and ‘BOOYA! Brunch’ featuring bottomless sangria or mimosas and Spanish-inspired brunch fare. With its innovative culinary offerings, vibrant atmosphere, and genuine hospitality, Bulla Gastrobar has become a standout in Tampa’s dining scene.

Valencia’s Garden Restaurant

Valencia’s Garden Restaurant offers an enchanting dining experience, blending exquisite Mediterranean flavors with botanical beauty in a lush, verdant setting.

This Tampa-based establishment specializes in authentic Spanish cuisine, offering delectable tapas, flavorful paellas, and an extensive wine list. Guests can indulge in traditional dishes like Patatas Bravas and Gambas al Ajillo, as well as explore a variety of wines from Spain and beyond.

The restaurant creates a serene oasis, reminiscent of southern Spain’s enchanting gardens. The sprawling outdoor patio is adorned with lush greenery, vibrant blooms, and soothing water features, providing a relaxing ambiance for diners to enjoy their meal.

It provides exceptional service and shares its passion for Spanish culture through knowledgeable recommendations and warm hospitality. Special events like flamenco nights and wine tastings further immerse patrons in the rich tapestry of Spanish tradition.

Casa Ramos Mexican Restaurant

Casa Ramos Mexican Restaurant in Tampa, Florida, embraces vibrant flavors and rich culinary heritage. With authentic dishes, colorful décor, and warm hospitality, this family-owned establishment provides an unforgettable dining experience, satisfying cravings for traditional Mexican cuisine.

Fresh ingredients and time-tested recipes are the foundation of the diverse menu at Casa Ramos Mexican Restaurant. Diners can expect a wide array of delicious options, including:

• Appetizers such as nachos supreme and ceviche
• Soups like tortilla soup or pozole rojo
• Classic entrées like enchiladas or carne asada
• Delectable desserts like churros or flan

The restaurant boasts quintessentially Mexican interior design, featuring vibrant colors, traditional artwork, folkloric textiles, and rustic pottery. This creates an inviting atmosphere that allows guests to immerse themselves in the culture while enjoying their meal.

Casa Ramos Mexican Restaurant prioritizes exceptional service, with knowledgeable staff providing insights into the menu’s history and suggesting pairings. This commitment creates a memorable dining experience that goes beyond food, allowing patrons to appreciate the cultural nuances within each dish they savor.

Besito Mexican Restaurant

Besito Mexican Restaurant celebrates Mexico’s rich flavors and culinary traditions, providing an exquisite dining experience with authentic cuisine, an elegant ambiance, and unmatched hospitality.

A Tampa-based fine-dining restaurant that serves authentic regional Mexican cuisine. With a menu featuring Cochinita Pibil, Enchiladas Suizas, and Ceviche Mixto, guests can enjoy a flavorful journey through Mexico’s beloved dishes. The restaurant’s dedication to quality is reflected in its use of fresh ingredients and traditional cooking techniques.

The restaurant offers exceptional cuisine, a captivating atmosphere, and attentive service. The rustic hacienda-style interior design, adorned with warm colors and handcrafted Mexican decor, creates a comfortable and sophisticated ambiance, immersing guests in a traditional cultural experience.

The staff provides exceptional service, guiding diners through meal selections and sharing anecdotes about each dish’s origins and significance in Mexican culture. This personalized approach fosters memorable and enriching dining experiences at Besito Mexican Restaurant.

Acropolis Greek Taverna

Acropolis Greek Taverna offers an authentic and immersive dining experience, showcasing rich flavors and time-honored traditions of Greece. With delectable cuisine, vibrant ambiance, and exceptional hospitality, guests are invited to a gastronomic odyssey.

Located in Tampa’s Ybor City neighborhood, this celebrated establishment offers a diverse menu featuring traditional Greek favorites like dolmades, moussaka, souvlaki, and spanakopita, catering to a variety of palates.

Renowned for its festive atmosphere, featuring live music, belly dancing performances, and the customary plate breaking, creating an unforgettable Hellenic dining experience.

Acropolis Greek Taverna preserves Greek culinary heritage by sourcing ingredients directly from Greece and utilizing fresh local produce for optimum quality in each dish.

The extensive wine list features selections from both Greece and around the world that have been carefully curated to complement the robust flavors inherent in Mediterranean cuisine.

The attentive staff frequently engages with patrons by sharing stories about Greek culture or offering suggestions for dishes based on personal experiences and regional specialties.

Acropolis Greek Taverna’s genuine connections between guests and servers, along with captivating culinary offerings, establish it as a must-visit destination to experience the essence of Greece in Tampa Bay.

Rene’s Restaurant

Rene’s Restaurant in Tampa, Florida, offers an unforgettable gastronomic experience, showcasing authentic Spanish cuisine with diverse regional flavors and time-honored recipes. The warm ambiance captures the vibrant spirit and zest of life synonymous with Spain.

The menu features traditional dishes from different regions of Spain, including Andalusian gazpacho, Galician octopus, Valencian paella, and Basque-style codfish. Meticulously prepared with locally sourced ingredients and authentic Spanish spices.

The restaurant offers a dining atmosphere that captures Spanish conviviality, featuring live flamenco performances and artwork inspired by Spanish masters like Picasso and Goya. Diners feel transported to an enchanting corner café in Madrid or Barcelona’s charming neighborhoods.

Rene’s Restaurant provides a lively social environment for sharing tapas and enjoying handcrafted sangria or Rioja wines. They also cater to intimate dining experiences, offering rich flavors and history that define Spanish cuisine, perfect for special occasions or leisurely meals.

Arco-Iris Restaurant

Arco-Iris Restaurant in Tampa, Florida, offers an authentic Spanish culinary experience with traditional flavors and time-honored recipes. As a family-owned and operated establishment, it embodies the rich cultural heritage of Spain, showcasing a blend of regional influences from the Iberian Peninsula.

Diners are welcomed into a warm and inviting atmosphere adorned with vibrant colors and distinctive décor elements reminiscent of Spain’s rich history, providing an enchanting backdrop for an unforgettable gastronomic journey.

The restaurant offers a diverse menu of exquisite Spanish delicacies, including tapas like patatas bravas and chorizo al vino, and entrées like paella Valenciana and mariscada en salsa verde. Each dish is meticulously crafted using fresh ingredients and time-tested techniques for a tantalizing culinary experience.

It features an extensive wine list carefully selected to complement the diverse flavors of the menu. Amidst the enchanting ambiance, diners are transported to a world where each bite evokes memories and emotions deeply rooted in Spain’s proud culinary traditions.

La Septima Café

La Septima Café, nestled in a bustling community, offers an alluring fusion of traditional and contemporary culinary delights. With diverse regional influences and a rich heritage rooted in Spain and Cuba, this vibrant eatery incorporates unique flavors from Tampa’s local food scene, delivering an unforgettable dining experience.

It offers an eclectic menu blending Spanish tapas, Cuban dishes, and American classics, catering to diverse palates. The inviting atmosphere combines warm décor and lively Latin music, transporting guests to the vibrant streets of Havana or the bustling plazas of Madrid.

They offer signature dishes like succulent roast pork with black beans and rice, as well as garlicky shrimp al ajillo tapas. Guests can pair their meals with crisp sangria and indulge in decadent desserts like flan de la abuela.

La Septima Café serves authentic dishes that honor generations-old family recipes and celebrate Tampa’s vibrant and dynamic culinary traditions, providing patrons with a true taste of tradition and diversity.

Frequently Asked Questions About  Spanish Restaurants in Tampa Florida