Best Cuban Sandwiches in Tampa, FL

The Cuban sandwich has a rich history dating back to the late 1800s, when Cuban immigrants brought their culinary traditions to Tampa, Florida. The iconic sandwich, which comprises ham, pork, Genoa salami, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard on pressed Cuban bread, has become a beloved staple in Tampa and beyond. In this article, we’ll explore the history of the Cuban sandwich and its ties to Tampa, and share some of the best places to find this delicious sandwich in the Tampa area. From family-owned sandwich shops to historic restaurants, Tampa has no shortage of options for satisfying your Cuban sandwich craving.

History of the Cuban Sandwich

The Cuban sandwich has its roots in the late 1800s when Cuban immigrants arrived in Tampa to work in the city’s growing cigar industry. Tampa was home to a large Cuban population, and the city became known for its Cuban-influenced cuisine, including the Cuban sandwich. The sandwich was created by combining traditional Cuban ingredients, such as ham and pork, with locally-available ingredients like Swiss cheese and pickles. Later on, thanks to the influence of fellow Italian immigrants in the Tampa area, the sandwich had salami added as one of its key ingredients. The reason why these ingredients worked so well is that they didn’t need to be refrigerated to stay delicious.

The sandwich was originally made with Cuban bread, a type of white bread that was introduced to the United States by Cuban bakers. Similar to a French baguette but with a softer, moister crumb, the bread is a key component of the Cuban sandwich. The sandwich became a popular choice for lunch among Tampa’s cigar workers, and it has since become a beloved Tampa tradition and a staple of Cuban-American cuisine.

Brocato’s Sandwich Shop

Brocato’s Sandwich Shop is a Tampa classic that has been serving hungry customers since 1948. Located just off Columbus after I-4, this family-owned local sandwich shop is known for its delicious Cuban sandwiches. The Cuban at Brocato’s is made on homemade Cuban bread. The sandwich is offered in five different sizes, ranging from 4 inches to a generous 15 inches, and can be ordered online for convenience.

In addition to its famous Cuban sandwich, Brocato’s also offers a variety of other sandwiches, sides, and drinks, including unlimited canned soda or 8 oz beer. Customers rave about the friendly service and the delicious, generous portions at Brocato’s, making it a must-visit destination for anyone in search of a tasty Cuban sandwich in Tampa.

West Tampa Sandwich Shop

West Tampa Sandwich Shop is a hidden treasure located on Armenia Avenue right by the Humane Society. Despite its small size, this “hole in the wall” sandwich shop is known for its delicious Cuban sandwiches, including the unique “Obama Sandwich.” This version of the Cuban sandwich is made with the added twist of honey.

This sandwich gained national attention when President Obama stopped by the shop during a visit to Tampa and added lettuce and tomato for a small additional charge. In addition to the Obama Sandwich, West Tampa Sandwich Shop also offers traditional Cuban sandwiches in small, regular, and large sizes, as well as a variety of other sandwiches, sides, and drinks. With its delicious sandwiches and unique atmosphere, West Tampa Sandwich Shop is a must-visit destination for anyone in search of a tasty Cuban sandwich in Tampa.

Columbia Restaurant

The Columbia Restaurant is a Tampa institution, widely known as “Tampa’s original restaurant.” Located in Tampa’s historic Ybor City District, this restaurant has been serving Cuban sandwiches and traditional Spanish favorites since 1905, making it the oldest restaurant in Florida. The Cuban sandwich at Columbia is made using the original 1915 recipe of Casimiro Hernandez, Sr., with layers of ham, pork, salami, and Swiss cheese on Tampa Cuban bread from La Segunda Central Bakery.

The bread, which is brushed with butter on top and pressed to a crispy finish, is a key component of the sandwich and adds to its delicious flavor. In addition to its famous Cuban Sandwich, the Columbia also offers a variety of other sandwiches, entrees, and drinks, as well as live music and entertainment. With its rich history, delicious food, and lively atmosphere, Columbia is a must-visit destination for anyone in search of a truly authentic Cuban sandwich experience in Tampa.

La Teresita Restaurant

La Teresita Restaurant is a well-known spot for Cuban and Spanish cuisine in Tampa, right on Columbus Drive near Himes Avenue. It has been owned by the Capedevila family for many years and offers a range of homemade cooked meals, including its famous Cuban sandwich. The sandwich at La Teresita is served with a side of plantain chips. This restaurant is also known for its cafe con leche, soups, and desserts such as flan. La Teresita’s welcoming atmosphere and delicious food make it a popular choice for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It has become a go-to place for Cuban cuisine in Tampa.

Gene Anthony’s Sandwich Shop

Gene Anthony’s Sandwich Shop is a popular choice for a quick and delicious Cuban sandwich on 15th Street just on the edge of Ybor Heights. Located near a free parking lot, this restaurant is easily accessible and convenient for diners. Gene Anthony’s is known for its flavorful food and great prices, making it a budget-friendly choice for a tasty lunch. The menu at Gene Anthony’s includes a variety of sandwiches, including the classic Cuban, as well as homemade devil crab pies, empanadas, and sweet potato pies. The restaurant is cash-only, so be sure to bring some cash with you if you plan to dine at Gene Anthony’s. With its delicious food and affordable prices, Gene Anthony Sandwich Shop is a must-visit destination for anyone in search of a tasty Cuban sandwich in Tampa.

Tampa is a city with a rich history of Cuban cuisine, and the Cuban sandwich is a beloved local tradition. From family-owned sandwich shops to historic restaurants, Tampa has no shortage of options for satisfying your Cuban sandwich craving.

Whether you’re looking for a traditional Cuban sandwich or a unique twist on the classic, Tampa has something for everyone. And when you’re done enjoying a delicious Cuban sandwich in Tampa, be sure to check out U.S. Pave, a trusted paving installation and maintenance company with locations in Tampa and other cities throughout the United States. U.S. Pave is dedicated to providing high-quality paving services to keep your driveways, parking lots, and other paved surfaces in top condition.

Cuban Sandwich at The Columbia Restaurant in Tampa by anaxmedia is licensed with CC BY-SA 2.0