Best Restaurants for Special Occasions in Palmetto

We have eaten at Columbia in St Augustine a couple of times and this was our first at the original restaurant in Tampa. It was a Monday night and we’re glad we had reservations because it was really busy. The interior of the restaurant was very beautiful and the walls showcased the history (from 1905). Jim, our waiter was great. Very helpful regarding the menu and sharing the history of Columbia. I had sangria to start and it was good. The Cuban bread and butter was absolutely wonderful. We didn’t order tapas because we knew the entrees were pretty large. We shared the Pollo Manchengo and Shrimp Gonzalo (not sure on the spelling). Both were good. We thought the Pollo had more flavor than the shrimp. The yellow rice was okay and the vegetable was broccolini, and was good. We finished with the bread pudding. Definitely enough for 2. It was very good. The restaurant doesn’t have good acoustics and is very loud….just from conversations. We also found that to be true in St Augustine. Prices were average, in the range from $28-48. Overall, we had a very nice meal and were glad we went. So much history both at the restaurant and in Ybor City. If you are in the area we would recommend giving it a try. We don’t get on the west coast of Florida very often but will definitely go back to the St Augustine location in the future.

We love Pier22 and always make it a point to visit when we are in town seeing my family! Tonight was another delicious meal and great service.

Excellent as always. A beautiful day and dining experience. Only wish we could come more often than during our winter escape from Illinois.

Ayanna our server was AMAZING! She was so thoughtful about suggesting menu items. The food was incredible . We’re so happy we chose Columbia today.

Had Wagyu - always a good choice. Sister had eggplant she said was great. Quinoa a strange side choice that came with. She didn’t care for it; broccolini a little underdone. Smashed potatoes ok but prefer whole or regular mashed. The dip was great Mac & Lobster delicious. Shareable, Good sized portions. They served a complementary (Valentine’s Day) mousse dessert! Excellent! James, our waiter was outstanding and fun!! We’ll be back!