This is a spot not to be missed. Much like you would not travel to Paris without seeing the Eiffel Tower, a trip to Tampa without dinner at the Columbia Restaurant would be foolish. Everyone who has visited Tampa or lives in Tampa knows about the Columbia Restaurant.

This unique Spanish-style building has been around since 1905. Although it has expanded, the large, dark-wood bar has been the same for nearly 100 years. Each room in this restaurant is different and has its own beautiful characteristics. The main dining room has a small stage where flamenco dancers take over two times per night, every day of the week (except Sundays). There is an additional charge to see a show (seatings are at approximately 6pm and 9pm), but the fee is nominal and well worth it.

The other rooms can be reached off the main dining area through tall, narrow wooden doorways. These areas can accommodate large groups and many more tables of diners, which is essential for this always-packed restaurant.

The menu is primarily Spanish/Cuban, with most entrees ranging in price from $20 to $35. Sangria is also a popular item that the pleasant waitstaff prepare tableside.

The pace is slow-moving as your orders are taken, and food is brought only moments before the dancing begins. Then, 30 minutes of performance await you as you dine, and the group of gorgeous dancers clap and stomp their way to a phenomenal finale.

This location in Ybor City is at the end of a long strip of bars, clubs, and restaurants. If the dinner and show have left you revved up and ready to hit the town, opportunities await you just outside the doors.

Reservations are a must if you are hoping to see the show. You can read more info at: http://columbiarestaurant.com/ybor.asp.

This is a unique experience that I guarantee you will enjoy and tell others about.

This is an institution in Tampa in Ybor City. There are typical Spanish dance shows on different days. The food is very good. Of course the paella takes a long time, but it is well worth the wait for this melange of seafood, rice, chicken, and sausage.

The Columbia shares the same name and same menu as its sister restaurant in St. Augustine. Some of the old world charm seems to be missing from the Tampa location. Still the food was good and the waiter was cute if not competent. The 1905 salad served with hot Cuban Bread is a meal in itself. The black beans and rice were good, but I'm still miffed because I specifically asked for no onions.