Ybor City is one of only three National Historic Landmark Districts in Florida. In 1900, Ybor became the cigar capital of the world, where Cuban, Spanish, and Italian cigar makers set up factories until 1950. The Latin mix that informed the city is perhaps best reflected at Carmine’s Restaurant and Bar, located at 1802 E. 7th Ave.
Though Carmine’s doesn’t sell cigars, it pays homage to the historic Cuban, Spanish, and Italian influences in Ybor. “Lunchtime diners can expect anything from a pressed Tampa Cuban sandwich served with yellow rice and black beans or other favorites such as Cuban marinated baked Chicken or Cuban Roast Pork.”
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“For dinner, Carmine’s prides itself on the Crab Enchilado, fresh fileted Gulf Grouper, Angus Beef, Italian Sausage, Pasta, and Homemade Sauces,” says Carmine’s.
As of now, Carmine’s reports that they are tweaking some of their classic menu items, and will introduce some new menu items, too. Those changes will tentatively appear on their menu sometime in July.
Stunning street views of the historic Latin Quarter
Carmine’s is perhaps one of the best places in Ybor to catch both dinner and a show in the same spot. But there’s more to the entertainment here than music and dining, the whole neighborhood constitutes a first-class show.
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Carmine’s is located on 7th Avenue, and in 2008, 7th Avenue was designated as one of the Great Streets in America by the American Planning Association (APA) for its rich history, beauty, and community.
According to the APA, “From the scent of roasting coffee, sights of towering palm trees, and sounds of Latin music, a stroll down “La Setima” or “Broadway,” as residents know it, evokes a dream-like experience.”
The iconic Ybor City will soon see a revival project down 7th Avenue. Set to begin in July, the city will reintroduce brick streets, reviving the historic character of the area. Learn more about the revitalization of 7th Ave. here.
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