Ybor City

"Ybor City History: Two Ways Founded in 1885, Tampa's Ybor City became the center of cigar making in North America. At one time there were 230 cigar factories employing 12,000 cigar makers and producing 700 million cigars a year. One of only three Historic Landmark Districts in Florida, Ybor City's history is also rich with stories of immigration, organized crime, revolution, Teddy Roosevelt, and Jose Marti, the leader of Cuban Independence. Two companies provide interesting walking tours of Ybor City. Ybor Walking Tours (www.yborwalkingtours.com) gives 90-minute tours on the brick streets of La Setima Avenida (Seventh Avenue), the Broadway of Ybor. The tour explores the many layers of history that make up the fabric of Ybor City. For a slightly different take, enjoy the Ybor Ghost Tour (www.yborghosttour.com). Expert storytellers convey personal tales of the people who lived, worked, gambled, fought, and died in Ybor City. Experienced in the paranormal, the guides are always on the lookout for other "storytellers" emerging from the past."

"Close neighbor Cubanidad 1885 is also announcing its will be 'opening soon,' featuring a Cuban menu from restaurateurs The Buddhakai Group. Inspired by the culinary scene in Ybor City, Florida, and time spent with chef Douglas Rodriguez, the 'Godfather of Nuevo Latino Cuisine,' the restaurant will be helmed by Cuban-born chef Dennis Martinez Miranda. The compact 935-square-foot project can only handle a maximum occupancy of 15 inside, but will feature a diverse menu including breakfast options, plus Cuban fried rice, baby pork ribs, croquetas, guava and cheese pastelitos paired with Cuban coffee, and burgers and sandwiches." - Bradley Martin