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Celebrate Tampa Bay’s Hispanic heritage + future

Hispanic influences can be found all over Tampa from the homes and city buildings we pass each day, to our favorite local restaurants.

Cuban sandich

The Columbia Restaurant’s Cuban sandwich is legendary, made with La Segunda bread, smoked ham, yellow mustard, and more.

Photo by @floridapress

Did you know TBAY has an incredibly vibrant Hispanic community? Back in the early 1900s, Hispanic Americans migrated to Tampa from all over to fill thousands of jobs in the city’s cigar factories (We are called Cigar City for a reason).

This influx in Hispanic residents inspired many of the architectural designs + cultural influences we admire today throughout Ybor City and Tampa, with Spanish casita bungalows + charming tile textures. Not to mention — we sure do have access to the best Cuban sandwiches, cafe con leché, guava pastries, and other delicious Hispanic cuisine.

In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs until Oct. 15, here are a few ways for you to join the celebration in the Tampa Bay area.

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