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Did you know that Cuban sandwiches in Tampa have been a thing for over a century? Back in the late 1800s and early 1900s, Ybor City became a hub for Cuban immigrants working in the cigar factories, and with them came one of Tampa’s most legendary creations—the Cuban sandwich!
What started as an affordable, grab-and-go lunch for cigar workers turned into a staple that defines Tampa’s food scene today. Layers of roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard, all pressed to crispy, melty perfection—it’s the kind of sandwich that keeps people coming back for more. If you’re in town, finding the best Cuban sandwiches in Tampa should be at the top of your list. And lucky for you, I know exactly where to go.
Pro tip: Always ask for extra pickles.
Best Cuban Sandwiches in Tampa
1. Flan Factory
Flan Factory is a must when you’re on the hunt for amazing Cuban sandwiches in Tampa. While their sandwich alone is reason enough to visit, their sides and desserts take things to the next level!
Start with the Timba—crispy queso blanco chunks paired with a guava dip—and definitely get an order of tostones. Their Cuban sandwich is packed with flavor, but don’t fill up too fast because you need to save room for their creamy, dreamy flan. With more than a dozen sandwiches to choose from, this place never disappoints.
2. West Tampa Sandwich Shop
West Tampa Sandwich Shop has been a local go-to since 1967, and let’s just say they know what they’re doing. They’ve built a legendary reputation for serving some of the best Cuban sandwiches in Tampa, and if you need proof, just ask former President Obama—he stopped by and gave their sandwiches his stamp of approval!
Their Honey Cuban is the star of the show, adding a touch of sweetness to the classic sandwich for a flavor combo that’s downright addictive. But don’t stop there—get an order of crispy tostones topped with garlicky mojo sauce for the full experience!
3. Empamamas
Empamamas, inside Armature Works (a must-visit restaurant on the Tampa Riverwalk), is where you go when you want a fun twist on the Cuban sandwich. Their Tampa Girl empanada is basically a Cuban sandwich in handheld form—roasted pork, ham, pickles, Swiss cheese, and mustard all packed into a perfectly flaky pastry crust.
It’s crunchy, cheesy, tangy, and everything you didn’t know you needed. Whether you’re a Cuban sandwich purist or just love a creative take on a classic, this one’s a must-try!
4. The Cracked Pepper Cafe
The Cracked Pepper Cafe is the real deal when it comes to Cuban sandwiches in Tampa. From their in-house slow-cooked meats to their imported deli ingredients you can taste the love. In fact, they took home the award for best Cuban sandwich in Tampa Bay at the 2023 Ybor Cuban Sandwich Festival—so yeah, they know what they’re doing.
Beyond the food, the service here is just as impressive. The staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and genuinely excited about what they’re serving! And when I asked for extra pickles, they delivered.
Everything is made fresh to order, so you’re always getting the best of the best. Easily one of my top three spots for a Cuban sandwich!
5. Tampa Bay Brewing Company
Tampa Bay Brewing Company has earned praise from me on my lists of top Ybor City breweries and best pizza in Tampa, and it might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of Cuban sandwiches in Tampa, but hear me out—they’ve put their own spin on it with a Cuban pizza. Yep, they took everything that makes a Cuban sandwich amazing and turned it into a pizza, and somehow, it works!
I won’t lie, I was skeptical at first, but they nailed it. The crust is crispy, the toppings bring all the classic Cuban flavors, and if you want to take it up a notch, you can get it as a calzone instead.
We saw one pass by our table, and it was huge. Definitely adding that to my must-try list for next time.
6. Los Gringos
Los Gringos knows how to do a Cuban sandwich right. Every bite is packed with roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard, all pressed to crispy, melty perfection. The flavors just hit differently—it’s like a little bite of Havana right here in Tampa.
And it doesn’t stop there. Their empanadas are just as good, with a flaky crust and a rich, savory filling that’ll have you coming back for more. If you need a little something extra on the side, their pasta salad is a solid choice—it’s light, refreshing, and balances out all that cheesy, meaty goodness.
7. 22nd Street Coffee
22nd Street Coffee is a local gem that knows how to do Cuban sandwiches in Tampa and some of the best coffee in town. If you’re in Ybor and need a caffeine boost with your meal, this spot is a must. Honestly, it might just be my favorite coffee shop in Ybor!
The atmosphere here is laid-back and cozy, making it a great spot to get some work done while enjoying a Cuban sandwich and a cono. And let me tell you—their cono is no joke. It’s one of the few coffees in the area that actually gives me a buzz!
8. La Segunda
La Segunda is the spot for authentic Cuban bread, and no list of the best Cuban sandwiches in Tampa is complete without it. They’ve been baking up perfection for over a century, and their bread is what makes so many of Tampa’s Cubans next level.
A bunch of the restaurants I’ve already mentioned actually source their Cuban bread straight from La Segunda, so you know it’s the real deal. But beyond the bread, they also have empanadas, croquetas, and guava pastries that bring all the best flavors of Cuban cuisine!
Best Cuban Sandwiches in Tampa Bay (That are Worth the Drive!)
9. Hopscotch Cafe in Dunedin
HopScotch Cafe in Dunedin might not be in Tampa, but their Cuban sandwich is worth the short drive. They stick to the classic combo—slow-roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard—but it’s the details that make all the difference. Their perfectly sliced pickles give every bite the ideal crunch, and the Cuban bread is always fresh.
The chill, travel-inspired atmosphere makes it a great place to hang out, and it’s dangerously close to 7venth Sun Brewery, one of the best breweries in Dunedin.
Check out more awesome restaurants in Dunedin!
10. Bodega in St. Pete
Bodega in downtown St. Pete is a must for anyone on the hunt for the best Cuban sandwiches in Tampa Bay! This lively downtown St. Pete spot serves up a bold and flavorful Cuban in a fun, tropical setting. Whether you stick with the classic Cubano or branch out for something different, every bite is packed with fresh ingredients and serious flavor.
And don’t sleep on their juice bar next door—a refreshing smoothie or juice is the perfect way to round out your meal. With its open-air dining and laid-back vibe, Bodega is the ultimate spot to kick back and enjoy some incredible Cuban food.
Check out the best restaurants in downtown St. Pete!
11. Kooky Coconut in Indian Rocks Beach
Kooky Coconut in Indian Rocks Beach is a quirky beachside shack that serves up a Tampa Cuban alongside their unique Island Cuban, which takes things up a notch with onions and fresh pesto for an extra burst of flavor.
Everything here is made fresh to order, so you know it’s going to hit the spot. And since you’re right by the beach, why not follow it up with some locally made ice cream or fresh coconut water? It’s the perfect way to cool off after a day in the sun.
12. The Brinehouse in Safety Harbor
Over in Safety Harbor, The Brinehouse takes Cuban sandwiches to a whole new level with their award-winning “Ybor Special.” Their twist on the classic features garlic cumin-brined pork tenderloin, baby Swiss, sweet capicola, pickles, pepperoncini, and guava mustard aioli on crispy, pressed Cuban bread.
Every bite is packed with rich, tangy, and savory flavors, making this one of the most unforgettable Cuban sandwiches in Tampa Bay. I’d happily make the drive back just for another taste!
Are you ready to try some of the best Cuban sandwiches in Tampa?
From classic Cubans to creative twists, there’s no shortage of amazing spots to grab a Cuban sandwich in Tampa Bay. Whether you’re craving a traditional take or something totally unique, these restaurants deliver big on flavor. Which one are you trying first?!
Before you go be sure to follow @sunkissedintampa_ on Instagram and check out some other Tampa blog posts:
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