Cheap Places to Eat in Tampa

"At over 110 years old, the Columbia Restaurant is Florida’s oldest restaurant and has been in the same family for nearly five generations. Founded in 1905, what started out as a 60-seat corner cafe, now encompasses an entire city block and holds the title of the world’s largest Spanish restaurant. After several renovations, including a US$6.5 million (around UK£5.1 million) renovation project back in 2005, the historic site can now seat nearly 1,600 people."

"More than just a restaurant, Columbia is a Tampa institution. Since 1905, this living history lesson has been serving some of the most authentic Spanish/Cuban food in Tampa Bay. The menu is expansive, spanning a wide array of traditional beef, pork, and seafood dishes made in the same way for generations."

"Note: Some of the restaurants in this list may currently have limited hours or menus. We recommend visiting each restaurant’s website for current updates on closures, menus and hours."

"If you’re looking for seafood for breakfast, Clear Sky Beachside Cafe has you covered. Crab, Salmon or Lobster eggs Benedict or omelets are on the menu. You can even get a seafood crepe."

"Dorothy is outstanding and knows the menu and is very attentive. We will definitely be back for more great food, fun lively atmosphere and..."

"Fresh Kitchen is a healthy fast food option for lunch and dinner located in Tampa's SoHo neighborhood. On offer is a full range of fresh and delicious ingredients that are combined in a handy bowl to eat in or take out. Set up cafeteria-style, diners head to the counter and order their bowl ingredients from the menu, picking a base such as noodles, rice or Quinoa, then veggies and a protein, topping it all off with a delicious house-made sauce."

"Fresh Kitchen does justice to its name, and no matter what time of the day it is, you can be sure of getting fresh and tasty food. The mission of the restaurant is to offer its guests a good life, some great opportunities, and healthy food that tastes great and is affordable. Try the sweet potato noodles, and do not miss out on their grilled citrus chicken with creamy white ginger dressing."

"Goody Goody Burgers is the resurrection of an iconic Tampa diner that was opened in 1925 as the first drive-in east of the Mississippi. The new incarnation is the brainchild of restaurateur Richard Gonzmart, owner of the famous Columbia Restaurant. No expense was spared in recreating the recipes, decor, and ambiance of the original with just a few changes to appeal to modern diners."

"If you’re catching an early morning domestic flight, swing by Goody Goody’s and they’ll fix you up a breakfast sandwich so good you may forget about said flight. They also serve burgers that have wooed Tampans since 1925 as well as pies, fries, and shakes. Location – Airside C, Gate C34"

"Goody Goody is located in Hyde park and open from 7 am to 9 pm. If you are looking for pancakes, they are the best breakfast in Tampa. Each pancake served is 12 inches!"

"If you like seafood and being by the water, customers say it doesn’t get much better than Circles Bar and Grill in Apollo Beach. This restaurant lies right on the Apollo Beach Marina and is Tampa’s premier Bayfront for all things good food and entertainment. It’s no wonder why this eatery is known as one of the best waterfront restaurants in Tampa bay."

"Mr. and Mrs. Crab is one of the most well-loved Clearwater seafood restaurants thanks to its absolutely mouth-watering menu options. Seafood selections include catfish, oysters, tilapia, scallops, and more, or choose a land option like chicken or sausage. Pair your meal with a unique signature cocktail!"

"Stop by International Cafe for a taste of the world right in the heart of Tampa. Named for the internationally inspired sandwiches, which are all pressed with butter and vary from Elvis’ favorite peanut butter and banana to a Cubano sandwich that is packed near to bursting, International Cafe offers fast, friendly service in a casual cafe setting. Aside from their sandwiches, they are also well known for their simple but delicious breakfast offerings, which are incredibly reasonably priced and pair superbly with some of International Cafe’s delicious coffee."

"Start your day at one of the popular breakfast joints like Another Broken Egg Cafe. The food is average, in our opinion, but we can see why it's so popular with others as they have a very big menu with lots to choose from. Some other breakfast restaurants to try out are Basimo Beach Cafe and Clear Sky Cafe."