On the Road to Florida’s Oldest Restaurant
As Florida’s oldest restaurant, The Columbia stands as a living tribute to more than a century of Spanish culinary tradition and hospitality. The Columbia Restaurant on St. Armands Circle in Sarasota steeped in tradition and flavor, offering an authentic Spanish atmosphere highlighted by hand-painted Spanish tiles and timeless décor. Among its beloved dishes, the 1905 Salad is a refreshing blend of crisp iceberg lettuce, julienned baked ham, natural Swiss cheese, tomatoes, olives, grated Romano cheese, and the restaurant’s famous garlicky dressing, tossed table-side to perfection.
Signature Dishes Rich in Heritage
The Eggplant Riojana features sliced eggplant breaded with ground plantain crumbs, smothered in a rich Rioja sauce packed with tomatoes, garlic, capers, olives, and red wine, then topped with melted Galician Tetilla cheese—a fulfilling vegetarian choice bursting with vibrant Mediterranean flavors.
For dessert, the fresh daily-made Key lime pie offers a luscious, creamy filling with a perfect balance of tartness and sweetness, nestled in a graham cracker crust, embodying a true Floridian classic.
Service That Reflects Tradition
Guests are greeted warmly by friendly hosts who set a hospitable tone from the moment they step in. The attentive and knowledgeable staff enhance the dining experience, offering thoughtful recommendations and gracious service that reflect the restaurant’s long-standing commitment to excellence. Whether enjoying a leisurely lunch on the patio or an intimate dinner surrounded by the glow of colorful tiles and soft lighting, patrons are transported to Spain with every bite and every detail.
Honoring a Storied Legacy
Together, these dishes, complemented by the authentic Spanish ambiance, provide guests with a flavorful, immersive experience that honors the legacy of Florida’s oldest restaurant, which originated in Tampa’s historic Ybor City in 1905. The Columbia continues to celebrate its heritage through cuisine, culture, and hospitality that have stood the test of time—making each visit a memorable journey into the heart of Spanish tradition.
Columbia Restaurant’s Key Lime Pie
Ingredients:
½ cup Nellie & Joes key lime juice,
1 (14 ounce) sweetened condensed milk,
3 egg yolks,
graham cracker crust
Whipped Cream optional
Directions:
- Mix Filling: In a bowl, whisk together the key lime juice, sweetened condensed milk, and egg yolks until smooth.
- Pour into Crust: Pour the mixture into the prepared graham cracker crust evenly.
- Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to set the filling.
- Cool: Allow the pie to cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours.
- Serve: Top with whipped cream
About the Author
Mark MyGrant is a retired educator turned food writer and blogger. To read more view Mark’s blog at Whatscookingsmithville.com
Always love finding a great restaurant steeped in tradition offering excellence in creative dishes and service.
One of the best things about traveling is exploring a new environment and especially new restaurants and foods.
One of the best things about traveling is exploring a new environment and especially new restaurants and foods
Wow! The eggplant sounds like a piece of heaven! What a special place with an amazing history. I will definitely stop the next time I pass through!
Love your blog, mark! Have a fun time in Florida!
Lori, this restaurant is all about you-?from it’s food to it’s cultural heritage.
Mangiare – my friend ❤️
Thanks for reading my blog. The Florida weather has been wonderful this year- no hurricanes!