Tampa in Hillsborough County, Florida — The American South (South Atlantic)
Columbia Restaurant
Founded 1905
The Columbia is the oldest and largest Spanish restaurant in the United States. It was opened as a cafe for cigarmakers by Casimiro Hernandez, Sr. When he died in 1930 his son Casimiro Hernandez, Jr. then brought it to its present glory.
The Columbia has helped popularize Spain's exotic cuisine in America, and through the years has played host to celebrities and world figures. The restaurant has always been under the management of the founding family.
Erected 1982 by the Tampa Historical Society.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Hispanic Americans • Industry & Commerce • Notable Buildings • Notable Places. A significant historical year for this entry is 1930.
Location. 27° 57.615′ N, 82° 26.093′ W. Marker is in Tampa, Florida, in Hillsborough County. Marker is on East 7th Avenue near North 22nd Street, on the right when traveling east. Located in Ybor City Historic District of Tampa. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Tampa FL 33605, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. The Rough Riders Rode By Here (a few steps from this marker); The Krewe of the Knights of Sant' Yago (within shouting distance of this marker); The Coming of the Italians (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); The 1937 Antifascist Women's March (about 400 feet away); Most Holy Name (about 700 feet away); La Joven Francesa Bakery (approx. ¼ mile away); Mayor Nick C. Nuccio (approx. ¼ mile away); Anthony P. "Tony" Pizzo (approx. ¼ mile away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Tampa.
Additional keywords. Culinary History
Credits. This page was last revised on March 2, 2023. It was originally submitted on July 8, 2008, by Mike Stroud of Bluffton, South Carolina. This page has been viewed 1,940 times since then and 59 times this year. Last updated on January 8, 2023, by Dave W of Co, Colorado. Photos: 1. submitted on March 2, 2023, by Tim Fillmon of Webster, Florida. 2, 3. submitted on July 8, 2008, by Mike Stroud of Bluffton, South Carolina. 4. submitted on January 8, 2023, by Dave W of Co, Colorado. 5. submitted on July 8, 2008, by Mike Stroud of Bluffton, South Carolina. 6, 7, 8. submitted on July 14, 2010, by Glenn Sheffield of Tampa, Florida. • Bernard Fisher was the editor who published this page.