Best Restaurants for Birthdays in New Tampa

We have eaten at Columbia in St Augustine a couple of times and this was our first at the original restaurant in Tampa. It was a Monday night and we’re glad we had reservations because it was really busy. The interior of the restaurant was very beautiful and the walls showcased the history (from 1905). Jim, our waiter was great. Very helpful regarding the menu and sharing the history of Columbia. I had sangria to start and it was good. The Cuban bread and butter was absolutely wonderful. We didn’t order tapas because we knew the entrees were pretty large. We shared the Pollo Manchengo and Shrimp Gonzalo (not sure on the spelling). Both were good. We thought the Pollo had more flavor than the shrimp. The yellow rice was okay and the vegetable was broccolini, and was good. We finished with the bread pudding. Definitely enough for 2. It was very good. The restaurant doesn’t have good acoustics and is very loud….just from conversations. We also found that to be true in St Augustine. Prices were average, in the range from $28-48. Overall, we had a very nice meal and were glad we went. So much history both at the restaurant and in Ybor City. If you are in the area we would recommend giving it a try. We don’t get on the west coast of Florida very often but will definitely go back to the St Augustine location in the future.

It was our first time there and everything was amazing. The food was so good. Loved the outside area. We will be back especially when you have the live bands and activities. Server was awesome too

A fun very busy place on Valentines day. Staff are quite friendly and make an effort to make sure your meal is perfect. If you have an allergy, or sensitivity they can accomodate you. Chose the steak and shrimp combo, my son had the chicken, shrimp and steak option. He would pick chicken and shrimp the next time, or upgrade for $8 to the filet. My wife enjoyed the scallops and shrimp. Popular place in Tampa several locations are available within a 20 mile radius. A single protein like chicken was very affordable. Lots of younger student couples took home a box for a second meal. Noodles, rice, along with chicken was around $30 each I believe, if you drink just water. A decent cocktail list is available, we tried the red sangria and the kobe breeze. Quite refreshing. Our three person total with the 18% mandatory tip was just over $200. We ate very well and chose more expensive options. We would go again.

We were celebrating my son’s birthday and the entire staff made him feel special. The food and drinks were all amazing and the price was reasonable. Our chef was super funny and cooked our food to perfection. From the time we arrived until the time we left, we were pleased with the atmosphere, the drinks, the efficiency of the staff and most importantly the deliciousness of the food.

Busy for a good reason! Yum! Table service can be slow with the busy takeout needs. Drinks and food are spot on! We will return!