The city of Tampa is a perfect blend of old and new. Visitors can experience history in Ybor City and enjoy modern luxuries like stylish shopping malls.
The best mall in Tampa FL also offers mouthwatering food to make your experience more wholesome. This shopping center has various entertainment options as well for a fun-filled time.
The Columbia Restaurant
The Columbia Restaurant is a Florida legend that has been owned and operated by the same family for five generations. Founded in 1905 in Tampa’s historic Ybor City neighborhood, the original restaurant covers an entire city block and can seat up to 1,700 people in its 15 dining rooms.
Known for its Cuban sandwich (yes, it was invented in Tampa, not Miami) and 1905 salad (a nod to the year the restaurant opened), the Columbia also serves up a variety of Spanish dishes and desserts. Its servers have a sixth sense about when you need them and when you want to be left alone to enjoy your meal or the flamenco dancers.
The family’s ties to Latin traditions are apparent in the menus and music, from tapas like black bean cakes or empanadas to more substantial entrees such as chicken croquettes or a grilled fish fillet with mojo marinated onions, yellow rice, platanos, and green peas. The company has branched out to other locations across Florida, including Sarasota and Sand Key in Clearwater Beach. Its new logo features a ship, a nod to the song “Columbia, Gem of the Ocean,” which Casimiro Hernandez Sr. loved.
Datz
Datz is a Tampa restaurant that puts a unique twist on America’s favorite comfort foods. From their signature shrimp and grits to Nashville hot chicken on doughnuts, they serve up a wide range of innovative entrees that have been featured on the Travel Channel, Good Morning America, and more.
The restaurant is the flagship location of the Datz Restaurant Group, which was founded by Suzanne and Roger Perry. It first opened in South Tampa in 2009 and has since expanded to St. Petersburg and Riverview, Florida. The restaurant’s menu includes a mix of regional comfort food and gastropub fare such as grilled cheese with bacon jam, smoked turkey poutine, and lobster pot pie.
Datz is inspired by historic Midwest and Northeast delicatessens that served huge servings. The restaurant also features a bar with a variety of cocktails and an extensive retail market selling pastries, chocolates, and local honey and jams. Its quirky name hints at its uniqueness and personality, as reflected in the restaurant’s slogan: “Go there hungry. Leave almost disgustingly full.”
Urban Cantina
Urban Cantina is a Mexican restaurant that has a variety of delicious dishes to offer. Its food is made with high quality ingredients that are sourced from small farms in the United States and Mexico. Its dishes include tacos, burritos and vegetarian options. The restaurant also has a wide variety of drinks to choose from.
This restaurant is a great option for those who want to enjoy some authentic Mexican food without breaking the bank. It is located in the heart of downtown Tampa. Its atmosphere is very lively and the service is excellent. The waiters are very friendly and they always bring a fresh bowl of water. It is a perfect place to relax and have a drink with friends. Moreover, the prices are very reasonable. It is one of the best restaurants in the area. It has a nice atmosphere and is very popular among locals. The menu has many different options to choose from and the staff is very friendly.
The Naked Farmer
Located at 1001 Water Street in Tampa’s newest development, Water Street Tampa, The Naked Farmer specializes in fast-casual, locally-sourced food. The restaurant has a great Winter menu featuring Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Pecan Kale Caesar. On the opening day, the first 200 diners received a tote bag filled with local veggies. On top of that, 100% of the profits will go to Metropolitan Ministries, a non-profit organization that helps people experiencing homelessness.
The Naked Farmer is a New American restaurant with a healthy twist. Founded in 2020, the restaurant has built a direct-to-farm supply chain and offers high quality food at an affordable price point. The restaurant has a reputation for hustle and “unmessed with deliciousness.” You can find it on the ground floor of the commercial office building, Thousand and One.
The Naked Farmer offers a variety of salads, proteins and grains. It also serves smoothies and iced coffee. Customers can dine in or take out the food. Its location on the waterfront makes it a perfect place for a quick lunch.