A Taste of Old Havana: Recreating Columbia Restaurant’s Good Rice The scent alone transports me back to humid Florida nights. As a young chef, I staged at the Columbia Restaurant in Tampa, a place steeped in history and the aroma of garlic, saffron, and a hundred other culinary secrets. While paella was their showstopper, it … Read more
Columbia Restaurant Shrimp Supreme: A Taste of Old Florida There’s a certain magic to Columbia Restaurant. Growing up in Tampa, it wasn’t just a place to eat; it was an experience. The vibrant Spanish music, the aroma of roasting meats, and the lively atmosphere created an unforgettable tapestry. But above all, it was the food, … Read more
Columbia Restaurant’s Original “1905” Salad: A Taste of Tampa History The first time I experienced the “1905” Salad was at a bustling family gathering, a riot of laughter and Cuban music spilling out onto a sun-drenched patio. The server, a blur of practiced grace, assembled the vibrant salad tableside, the aroma of garlic and olive … Read more
The Irresistible Charm of Columbia Restaurant’s 1905 Salad I remember the first time I tasted the 1905 Salad. It was during a trip to Tampa, Florida, and the Columbia Restaurant was a must-visit. The bustling atmosphere, the live music, and the aroma of Cuban cuisine filled the air, but it was that salad that truly … Read more