Tampa is proof that you don’t have to travel to Miami for an incredible Cuban sandwich. From historic Spanish-Cuban restaurants to popular local bakeries, these Tampa spots serve some of the best Cubans in Florida.
Flan Factory
As the name suggests, Flan Factory is famous for its flan, but don’t overlook the sandwiches. This cozy spot has several Cuban variations, including the classic El Tampeño Cuban and the Mojo Pork, topped with caramelized onions and Swiss cheese. Save room for dessert, though, since the restaurant rotates through different flan flavors each week.
West Tampa Sandwich Shop
The Cuban sandwich takes center stage at West Tampa Sandwich Shop, where crunchy-on-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside Cuban bread makes all the difference. One of the most popular orders is the Honey Cuban, also known as the “Obama Sandwich,” which President Barack Obama ordered during a 2012 visit. While you’re here, try local favorites like puerco asado, chicharrón de pollo, or a refreshing guanábana milkshake.
Box of Cubans
What started as a gas station eatery has grown into one of Tampa’s favorite Cuban sandwich destinations. The signature Cuban features pork marinated for more than 24 hours before being pressed on fresh bread for the perfect bite. Looking for something with a little kick? The Mojito Pork Sandwich comes topped with pickled jalapeños and cilantro sauce. Pair it with croquetas and a colada for the full experience.
Columbia Restaurant
Few restaurants are as deeply connected to Tampa’s Cuban sandwich history as Columbia Restaurant. Open since 1905, this historic Spanish-Cuban institution serves a Cuban sandwich based on Casimiro Hernandez Sr.’s original 1915 recipe, made with freshly baked Cuban bread from La Segunda Central Bakery and pressed until golden and crisp. Stay for a flamenco performance in the elegant dining room, complete with soaring ceilings and sparkling chandeliers.
Arco Iris Cafe
Arco Iris Cafe may not look flashy from the outside, but that’s part of its charm. This longtime local favorite focuses on homemade Cuban comfort food that feels straight out of abuela’s kitchen. The Cuban sandwich is a classic pick, but the devil crab is equally tempting, crispy, flavorful, and packed with savory filling. A café con leche is the perfect finishing touch.
Bread on the Bay
Serving Latin, Italian, and American sandwiches, Bread on the Bay offers plenty of options, but the Cubans stand out. The Tampa Cubano combines Genoa salami, city ham, pulled pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, garlic aioli, and mustard on pressed Cuban bread. Want something a little different? Order the Cuban Reuben, which combines pastrami, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, crispy onions, Thousand Island dressing, and mustard on hot-pressed Cuban bread.
La Segunda Central Bakery
If you’re searching for Tampa’s most iconic Cuban bread, head to La Segunda Central Bakery. This well-loved bakery has been supplying fresh Cuban bread to restaurants throughout the city for generations. Grab a Cuban sandwich piled with smoked ham, Genoa salami, and roast pork, then treat yourself to a guava cheese turnover, a flaky pastry filled with sweet guava and cream cheese.
La Teresita Restaurant
With counter seating, a shaded patio, and a friendly ambiance, La Teresita Restaurant feels like a neighborhood staple. The Cuban sandwich is always a good choice, but you’ll also find favorites like yellow rice and chicken, bistec de palomilla, and rotating daily specials. Save room for dessert, with Cuban favorites such as flan and tres leches among the options.
Los Gringos Tampa
Looking for a fun atmosphere and tasty food? Los Gringos Tampa delivers both. The classic Cuban comes loaded with traditional ingredients on fresh bread, with the meats grilled before the sandwich is pressed with Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard. Here for breakfast? Brooklyn’s Avocado Toast is another popular option.
