Secret Food Tours: Tampa

On our Secret Food Tour: Tampa, you'll enjoy a variety of classic bites.

From award winning Cuban sandwiches and deviled crab to handcrafted guava pastries from a critically acclaimed bakery, our experienced guides will take you through Ybor City, a vibrant neighborhood where history and modern culture collide in the best way possible. Originally founded by Cuban, Spanish, and Italian cigar manufacturers in the late 1800s, Ybor has held onto its roots while evolving into a lively hub for food, music, and art. Think cobblestone streets lined with vintage cigar shops, fusion restaurants, and trendy bars that pulse with Latin jazz and live rock well into the night. Day or night, you'll see an eclectic crowd strolling past colorful murals, exploring century-old buildings, or gathering in outdoor cafés under the soft glow of string lights. From the bustling 7th Avenue to its hidden alleys and parks, Ybor City exudes an old-world charm blended with a bold, contemporary edge that feels like a little slice of Havana right in the heart of Tampa.

Plus, don't forget about our Secret Dish, a luscious delight that caps off our food journey!

All the food will be served with water and at times, a non-alcoholic beverage. Or if you prefer, a thoughtfully curated Upgraded Drinks Package is available.

• You'll begin your journey with a sweet treat that’s authentically Tampa, enjoying your first bite at an Ybor City park, learning about the history of the colorful neighborhood you are entering.
• After your sweet start, we’ll meander over to the oldest restaurant in Florida, known for its rich Spanish and Cuban cuisine, which has been enchanting guests since 1905. There you'll indulge in their deviled crab croquettes, stuffed with blue crab, paprika and garlic.
• Next up, we'll take you to Tampa's best known spot for the city's iconic cuban sandwich, filled with roast pork, ham, swiss cheese and pickles, all pressed to a crispy, crunchy taste sensation between fresh baked cuban bread.
• From there, you'll discover the secrets of Ybor City, with its colorful history and pirate connections.
• We stop in at a local diner for avgolemono while experiencing the Greek tradition of hospitality, or philoxenia, which permeates many dining establishments, where meals are social experiences enjoyed among family and friends.
• Now it's time to stroll through the palm tree lined streets of 7th Avenue, the heart of Ybor City, as we peek into the fabulous local shops and cigar crafters, and enjoy the incredible people watching.
• We wrap up with our delicious Secret Dish – a lush, creamy dessert that is steeped in history.