Top 5 Cuban Sandwiches in Tampa, Florida
Boasted on a sign outside the establishment as the “2nd Best Cuban Sandwich in Tampa” (by who, is unclear), I would have to agree that DI Coffee Bar serves up a quality Cuban sandwich! While less loaded than the Tampa cubanos I am used to, the sandwich consists of a quality Cuban bread, oozy cheese, and even ratio of mayo to mustard. Unless it is roast pork, I prefer all of the meats on my Cuban sandwiches to be even and thin-sliced so as not to overwhelm the other ingredients. If you visit this spot, expect an even layered sandwich with quality ingredients - and be sure to pair it with a classic cafe con leche while you’re at it.
4. LA SEGUNDA
La Segunda has been a Tampa staple for over 110 years, opening its doors in 1915. Now, they operate four locations throughout Tampa Bay as well as offer nationwide shipping. Additionally, the majority of restaurants in town use La Segunda’s quality Cuban bread. Their Cuban sandwich is flavorful, filled with roast pork, and bigger than your head — and don’t you dare leave without a guava and cheese pastelito!
The Columbia is the oldest restaurant in all of Florida, serving up Spanish eats and a rich history since 1905. Known well for their arroz con pollo and Cuban sandwiches, this historic restaurant’s original restaurant resides in historic Ybor City. You can also visit the Columbia Cafe inside the Tampa Bay History Center or their location in St. Augustine, FL (the oldest city in the United States!). Be sure to try the famous tableside 1905 salad while you are there!
2. FLAN FACTORY
Warm hospitality, great Cuban eats and hilarious staff T-shirts is what I know this spot for. Originally drawn in by the dozens of flan flavors, the roast pork in their El Tampeño Cuban sandwich stole my heart and moved the sandwich into the #2 spot on my list. I always enjoy the El Tampeño Cuban when I visit, but some other favorites among friends and family are the ham croquetas, timba and Cuban fried rice.
If you’re from Tampa, you know the best Cuban sandwich in town is found at West Tampa Sandwich Shop. With doors open for over 30 years, this small neighborhood shop is known for their famous Cuban sandwich - namely, the one that adds lettuce and tomato to the traditional sandwich before being pressed with a brush of honey over the bread. This is fondly referred to as the “Obama Cuban”, as former President Barack Obama ordered it this way during a visit to the shop in 2012. Former President Obama is just one of many notable figures, politicians and neighbors who have visited the shop over the years — just check out the photo-covered walls.
