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Not only is Tampa known for its great beaches
but its multicultural diversity as well. Combine great scenery with foods from
all over the world and your dining experience is sure to be the best. At the turn
of the century thousands of Spanish, Cuban, Italian and German immigrants flocked
to the shores to work in the Cigar Factories and these new Americans left their
distinct mark on Tampa 's cuisine. From Tampa 's waterfront cafes to quaint bistros
and restaurants with a Cuban flare, the food is sure to leave your palate wanting
more. No matter what you are in the mood for the best person to ask is your concierge
at the front desk of your hotel. Be it the Tahitian Inn, Wynsham Westshore or
the Four Points Sheraton, they are sure to know the best places to eat in Tampa
. The famous La Segunda Bakery (2512
N. 15 th Street), which has been in Tampa for more than three generations originated
during the Spanish American War. The bakery is best known for its Cuban bread,
which is served in most restaurants around Tampa . One must stop in a local café
and savor the fine taste of the Cuban sandwich in which the famous bread is used
to make. If you are in the mood for fine
northern Italian and continental specialties than look no farther than the Radisson
Hotel Conference Center . No visit is
complete without eating at the prominent Columbia Restaurant ( 2117 East 7 th
Avenue ), established in 1905 as a little corner café. It is now more than
a block long and can seat 1,600 people. It has served many famous celebrities
and politicians such as John F. Kennedy. The tastes and colors of Mexican tradition
come alive as beautiful flamingo dancers perform on stage while you eat and dance
along with them. There is a gift shop where a visitor can bring home a taste of
the Columbia Restaurant such as their world famous salad dressing and watch as
cigar rollers demonstrate their fine trade. This is said to be Florida 's oldest
restaurant. Just a few steps away from the Columbia Restaurant and the Famous
La Segunda Bakery are the Doubletree Suites Busch Gardens . Bern
's Steak House ( 1208 South Howard Avenue ) which has been in Tampa for over forty
five years has now become a landmark and has added several additions to their
restaurant such as a retail store and Bern 's own line of spirits. The Bern 's
family belief is the “guest must always come back.” With its art of steak making
and specialty desserts one stop there and you will have to come back. Plan to
make reservations early so you can enjoy this world class dining experience. Of
course, a visit to Tampa would not be complete without dining at one of the shore
side restaurants. Billy's Stone Crab ( 1 Collany Road ) offers casual waterfront
dining and inexpensive cocktails. On Sundays you can dine on the world's “largest
fish sandwich.' Bill's guests are treated to a free evening boat ride to Shell
Island . If you want a more upscale waterfront dining experience then the Colonnade
( 3401 Bayshore Blvd. ) is for you. Sit back and relax as you are waited upon
while you watch the sunset across the gulf and cruise ships passing in the night.
If just dining by the shore is not enough for you, the Sailport Resort , has three
beautiful waterfront restaurants, making each meal an exciting and breathtaking
experience. If you want the security
and movement of knowing you can eat at anytime you please day or night the Quality
Hotel Clearwater is the place to stay with its convenient twenty-four hour restaurant.
The Radisson Clearwater also offers the Bayside restaurant and bar. If lounging
by the pool and enjoying great food are what you crave then the Radisson Clearwater
and Tampa Bay are a perfect fit for you. Tampa
definitely offers an eclectic dining experience no matter what price you want
to pay and is sure to make even the most avant-garde palate happy. Bon Appetite!
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