Y is for Ybor City, Tampa

My husband and I have recently moved into the city of Tampa.  We have the Port of Tampa with glistening cruise ships at our back and the winking city skyline at the front.

  Having lived in larger cities before, this was an easy move. It's wonderful to be back where one can walk to restaurants and museums and stroll along the beautiful River Walk next to the Hillsbourough River, as it meanders through Tampa. 

We are literally a short trolley ride from the heart of the entertainment district. Ybor City began life as a cigar manufacturing area in the early twentieth century.  Those factories were known to hire women and people of color for the same pay as everyone else. 

 Known as Tampa’s Latin Quarter for over a century, Ybor City is an exotic blend of aromas, flavors, sights and sounds. From the scent of roasting Cuban coffee early in the morning to the rhythms of Latin music late into the night, Ybor is a fun place to be.

Within Ybor City is our favorite restaurant, The Columbia.  Begun in 1905, by a Spanish immingrant, it features the finest Spanish cuisine along with a great tapas selection.  Flaminco dancing is performed each night in one of the lovely dining rooms.

So today Y is for Ybor City.  A great place to visit.  When in Tampa, give it a try!