Flan Factory is opening a new location at Armature Works (1910 N Ola Avenue), bringing its award-winning Cuban comfort food to one of Tampa’s most popular destinations. The family-owned restaurant, known for its first-place Cuban sandwich and legendary flan inspired by owner Joseph Palau’s grandmother, will soon join the Market Hall lineup.
Since opening in Ybor City, Flan Factory has evolved from a hidden gem into one of Tampa’s favorite local restaurants. The eatery gained widespread recognition after winning Best Cuban Sandwich at the 2022 International Cuban Sandwich Festival. The team also expanded its original location at 1718 N Nebraska Avenue, adding a cozy dining area (perfect for sipping an iced horchata).
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Flan Factory’s signature flans remain the heart of the menu. Guests can enjoy creative options such as guava, pistachio, starfruit, matcha dark chocolate, and strawberry, along with vegan options for plant-based diners.
Flan Factory is one of the best restaurants in Tampa
Beyond dessert, the menu features a variety of Cuban-inspired comfort dishes. Favorites include the 1985 sandwich, made with deep-fried brioche bread, guava sauce, cream cheese, and oven-roasted turkey breast, and the Timba appetizer, featuring flash-fried queso blanco served with guava sauce. Of course, their award-winning Cuban sandwich—stacked with slow-roasted pork, Genoa salami, serrano ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, mayo, and mustard on pressed Cuban bread—remains a must-try.
“As a first-generation Tampeño born and raised in West Tampa, it was always important to my abuela that we held on to our Cuban heritage and traditions,” said owner Joseph Palau. “When she passed away in 2014, I wanted to honor her memory and share her legacy through Flan Factory.”
While the Armature Works location prepares to open, fans can still visit Flan Factory’s original restaurant in Ybor City at 1718 N Nebraska Avenue to enjoy the same authentic flavors and hometown hospitality that made it a Tampa favorite.
