Best 5 Spots to Eat & Drink in Ybor City

This lively Tampa neighborhood, once renowned as the world’s cigar capital, boasts a vibrant nightlife and a diverse selection of restaurants and bars. Whether you’re craving traditional Cuban dishes like those at Columbia or innovative craft cocktails at Copper Shaker, Ybor City offers options for every taste. Here are my top picks for your upcoming Tampa visit.

Copper Shaker

During my three-week stay in Ybor, this quickly became my favorite hangout. If you want expertly crafted cocktails in a lively, friendly, moody setting, this is the place for you! The bartenders take pride in their innovative drinks, from twists on classics to bold new creations you won’t find anywhere else. I loved ordering a bartender's choice—that’s when they decide to make a drink that isn’t on the menu!

This spot is cozy yet lively, making it perfect for starting your evening or relaxing after exploring the neighborhood—something I did many nights! Plus, these bartenders not only excel at crafting great drinks but also recommend two other places on this list.

 Columbia

As I mentioned in 'Top 5 Places to Eat and Drink in St. Augustine,' I visited this spot while I was there, but I felt compelled to try the original location, too. Established in 1905, Columbia is a culinary landmark in Ybor City and the oldest restaurant in Florida.

Be sure to try their Cuban classics, especially the famous Cuban sandwich, which was excellent. That was surprising because I’m not usually a big fan of Cuban sandwiches. Also, try their tableside 1905 Salad, which I enjoyed in St. Augustine; it’s one of the best salads I’ve ever had! I still highly recommend their red sangria.

 Barriehaus

If you love craft beer, Barriehaus is a must-visit in Ybor City. Located less than a five-minute walk from my hotel, it provides a quick escape from the fancy cocktails above!

The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, perfect for joining a trivia game or unwinding in a cozy corner to write a new post for a travel blog. This brewery specializes in German-style lagers and features a rotating selection of crisp, refreshing beers.

  Lee’s Grocery

A bartender from Copper Shaker highly recommended this spot and the one below. If you're looking for a pizza place with a unique twist, Lee’s Grocery is the place to go! It is a beloved local favorite tucked away in Ybor City, and it serves some of the best pizza around with a laid-back, friendly vibe.

Housed in a historic building that was once a neighborhood grocery, it combines old-fashioned charm with creative, tasty pies. This place is perfect if you want a laid-back vibe, pizza, and beer! The menu offers both traditional and inventive toppings, and their craft beer selection makes it ideal for a casual meal!

 La Sétima

The second place the bartender recommended I visit is La Sétima, which features a rotating wine list, local craft beers, and Louisiana-inspired vegan dishes—something for everyone.

At first, I was a little hesitant because it’s a vegan restaurant, but their Seezer Sliders—battered and fried lion's mane mushrooms served with house Caesar, romaine, fried capers, and cashew Parmesan —were truly incredible. I couldn’t believe how delicious they were; I still think about them months later! I also tried their black-eyed pea hummus, which was good, but those sliders were absolutely outstanding.

Tell me, which place did you visit, and what tips do you have for my future trip? Share in the comments!