The Cuban sandwich debate in Florida is one that always stirs a lot of emotions. Many argue over the proper way to craft the sandwich, the best spot to find one, and of course where it originated. Southern Living has entered the chat and named The Columbia as the best Cuban sandwich spot in the state.
“All 52,000 square feet of the space smells of baking bread, garlic, and spices,” writes Andrew Schrader for Southern Living. “…it’s more like a magical foodie castle, covered in Spanish tiles, where everyone is invited to the feast.”
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The Columbia crafts a perfect sandwich trifecta
Andrew T. Huse, Tampa Bay historian and lead author of The Cuban Sandwich: A History in Layers, notes that it was never referred to as a Cuban sandwich by Cubans. “It was called a mixto (mixed sandwich),” he says, “and the ingredients changed over time.”
Columbia’s current Cuban is based on the sandwich popularized over a century ago and features salami, ham, and roast pork. Historian Andrew Huse says the three biggest factors that make The Columbia’s so special are sugar, fat, and bread.
Southern Living also highlights the use of La Segunda Bakery bread for the sandwich. You can see the magazine’s full award’s list here.
The Columbia’s original Ybor location can be found at 2117 E 7th Ave. Visit its website to learn more about the restaurant.
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