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If you’re craving an unforgettable meal, Ybor City is where it’s at! This historic Tampa neighborhood is packed with incredible dining spots, from authentic Cuban sandwiches to Mexican street tacos that’ll have you coming back for more. Whether you’re a local on the hunt for a new go-to spot or just visiting and looking for the best Ybor City restaurants, you’re in for some seriously good eats!
Best Restaurants in Ybor City
1. Los Chapos Tacos
Los Chapos Tacos is a laid-back, counter-serve taco joint, and it is a must if you’re in the mood for bold flavors and fresh ingredients. Their birria tacos live up to the hype, and the esquites (Mexican street corn in a cup) is the perfect side. They also serve burritos, quesadillas, and burrito bowls, so there’s something for everyone!
Keep in mind – they’re closed on Sundays.
2. 7th and Grove
7th + Grove is a whole vibe. Their motto—Eat, Vibe, Flourish—sums up the experience perfectly. Upscale Southern comfort food meets a trendy lounge setting, making this a perfect spot for brunch, dinner, or a night out.
Some standout dishes – their deviled eggs with fried chicken, fried green tomatoes, and their Cuban egg rolls. And don’t skip their handcrafted cocktails or their selection of craft beers!
3. Casa Santo Stefano
For an authentic Italian meal with a touch of Sicilian charm, Casa Santo Stefano delivers. The brick walls, exposed beams, and cozy atmosphere make it perfect for a date night or special occasion.
Kick things off with their antipasti menu, then dive into their homemade pastas—the lasagna Bolognese is a must! And if you’ve got room, end on a sweet note with tiramisu, cannoli, or gelato. Pair it all with a glass of wine, and you’ve got yourself the perfect meal!
4. La Creperia Cafe
A little slice of France right in Ybor City, La Creperia Cafe is the place to go for sweet and savory crepes.
I went all in and tried one of each – the Marie Antoinette (Nutella, banana, strawberries, and a splash of Bailey’s) was hands-down one of the best crepes I’ve ever had. For savory, the Oppa Mexicana was packed with cheese, red meat sauce, green pepper, sweet corn, and Tabasco, topped with sour cream and salsa.
Pair it with a rich espresso, and you’re all set!
5. Sushi House
If you’re a sushi lover, Sushi House is a must-visit. It’s been way too long since my last visit, but I still think about it, so I know I’m overdue for another trip!
Start with their sweet and spicy edamame, then go all in on their sushi rolls and sashimi. My personal favorite? The volcano roll—absolute perfection.
6. Al’s Finger Licking Good Bar-B-Que
I finally got around to trying Al’s Finger Licking Good Bar-B-Que, and wow—why did I wait so long?! The smoky aroma hits you before you even walk in, and trust me, the food lives up to the hype.
Their Tennessee-style BBQ is on point, and the ribs are fall-off-the-bone good. But the sides? Just as impressive. The mac and cheese is rich and creamy, and the coleslaw is the perfect balance of tangy and sweet.
This is a non-negotiable stop if you’re on the hunt for the best restaurants in Ybor City!
7. Madame Fortune
If you’re looking for an unforgettable dining experience in Ybor, you have to check out Madame Fortune. This hidden speakeasy isn’t just one of the best restaurants in Ybor City—it’s also one of Tampa’s best-kept secrets.
We couldn’t resist ordering their turkey wings, and they did not disappoint. They were huge, packed with flavor, and absolutely drenched in a lemon pepper sauce that was to die for! Just when we thought we couldn’t eat another bite, we made room for their lemon and blueberry icebox cake, and wow—heavenly is an understatement.
8. La Segunda
You can’t talk about Ybor City restaurants without mentioning La Segunda. This spot is famous for its Cuban sandwiches, and for good reason. They make some of the best Cubans in Tampa, and while it’s not a sit-down restaurant, it’s an absolute must-visit if you want to experience an authentic taste of Tampa Bay.
Even if you haven’t been here before, chances are you’ve had La Segunda bread without realizing it. So many restaurants in the area serve their Cubans on this legendary bread because it’s just that good.
9. Rosenheim Restaurant
If you’re in the mood for Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors, Rosenheim Restaurant is where it’s at. This was actually my first time at a Middle Eastern restaurant, so I didn’t know what to expect—but wow, everything was so fresh and flavorful!
We went with the tabbouleh, falafel, and shish tawook grilled chicken skewers, and I’m already planning to come back to try more. The meats were seasoned so well, and the flavors were completely different from what I’m used to in the best way possible.
The restaurant itself is also stunning, especially the covered outdoor patio. And of course, the drinks were delicious too!
10. Bernini of Ybor
Bernini of Ybor is an Italian restaurant with a killer happy hour. Every day from 4-7 PM, you get 50% off pasta and entrees and $3 Stoli martinis—so obviously, we had to check it out. Remi and I highly recommend their dirty or espresso martini.
Located in the historic Bank of Ybor City building, Bernini has such a cool, charming vibe. We ordered the lasagna and calamari, and both were absolute perfection. Whether you’re stopping by for a fancy dinner or just taking advantage of that amazing happy hour, this spot is always a solid choice.
11. Barrio Tacos
Barrio Tacos brings the perfect mix of bold flavors, creative cocktails, and a hip, casual vibe to Ybor City. The drink menu is top-tier, and when it comes to food, the taco options are endless!
If you’re indecisive like me, start with their sampler—you get to pick a salsa, guac, and queso to try. We went with the pineapple guac, chorizo queso, and corn salsa, and honestly, it was all amazing. There are so many options for each, though, so good luck choosing!
The tacos here are huge, so come hungry. And if you’re into art, you’ll love the interior—it’s all done by local artists, blending Tampa’s history with a Día de los Muertos theme. It’s fun trying to spot all the hidden Tampa references in the artwork, making the whole dining experience that much cooler.
12. Coppertail Brewing
Coppertail Brewing isn’t just a popular Ybor City brewery—they also serve up some seriously delicious food. Their menu has a little something for everyone, but the real star of the show? Their pulled brisket sandwich. It’s loaded with tender, flavorful brisket that melts in your mouth, making it an absolute must-try for any meat lover.
And let’s talk about the waffle fries—crispy, golden perfection. I usually go for tots, but these completely won me over. Whether you’re here for the beer or the bites, Coppertail Brewing is easily one of the best breweries in Tampa.
13. Jimmy’s Tacos
Jimmy’s Tacos is a family-run taqueria that knows how to do Mexican food right. Their specialty? Birria tacos that are nothing short of incredible. The meat is slow-cooked to perfection, packed with flavor, and served on warm tortillas that soak up every bit of that rich, savory goodness.
The restaurant itself has a laid-back, open-air vibe, making it the perfect spot to kick back and enjoy some seriously good tacos.
14. Asiatic Street Food and Noodle Bar
If you’re craving authentic Southeast Asian flavors, Asiatic Street Food and Noodle Bar will hit the spot. This Ybor City restaurant brings the bold, fresh flavors of Thai street food to Tampa with a menu full of noodle bowls, curries, and classics like Pad Thai—which happens to be my personal favorite.
The flavors here are legit and satisfying, making every bite better than the last. And if you want the full experience, definitely pair your meal with their selection of beer and sake!
Related read: best things to do in Ybor
15. Barterhouse
Barterhouse is where inventive American cuisine meets next-level craft cocktails in an intimate yet stylish setting. It’s a stunning spot year-round, but around the holidays, the decorations make it feel extra magical.
When we visited, they had a seabass special that was absolutely phenomenal. But the real standout? The steak, which came with an entire roasted garlic bulb so you could squeeze the cloves right onto the meat. Let me tell you—it rocked my world. I even started doing it at home because it was just that good!
16. Pete’s Bagels
For a bagel experience that’s anything but basic, Pete’s Bagels is a must. It’s got a laid-back coffee shop feel, a sunny patio, and even a dog-friendly area, making it the ultimate breakfast hangout.
My go-to order? The Millennial Pete—a bagel loaded with creamy avocado and zesty pickled red onions. Every bite is a flavor explosion, and honestly, I’d argue Pete’s has the best bagels in Tampa.
But it’s not just about bagels—the freshly baked pastries, great coffee, and cozy atmosphere make it hard to leave!
Which of these Ybor City restaurants are you visiting first?!
Whether you’re craving authentic Cuban sandwiches, mouthwatering tacos, fresh seafood, or a next-level brunch, there’s no shortage of amazing restaurants in Ybor City to check out! No matter what you’re in the mood for, I know you’re going to love eating your way through Ybor! Let me know which spot you’re most excited to try—or if you have a favorite I should add to my list for next time!
I would also like to note that Colombia is one of the most popular restaurants in Ybor, but personally, the only thing I have enjoyed there is their salad (which is fabulous). But it is an iconic Ybor establishment.
Also, if you’re looking for a delicious coffee in Ybor check out 22nd Street Coffee!
Before you go be sure to follow @sunkissedintampa_ on Instagram and check out some other Tampa blog posts:
Best restaurants in downtown Tampa
Can’t miss ice cream shops in Tampa
Amazing music festivals in Tampa
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