Carmine's

Within Ybor City, this longtime restaurant has been serving Italian, Cuban and Spanish specialties since 1948. Sure, you're almost required to try the Cuban sandwich, which is said to have originated in this diverse district, but there are many handcrafted items on the menu that you also should try, including “crab enchilado” and grilled palomilla steak. Afterward, order a café con leche (coffee with milk) to go. The décor is trendy with murals on the building and plenty of brick and iron accents, but you'll want to go for the artfully prepared house specials as well as the convenience to hotels and entertainment along 7th Avenue. For the best value, order "Carmine's Combo" for lunch; it comes with half of a Cuban sandwich and yellow rice topped with black beans.