Ybor and Downtown Tampa?

[carolinadawg]

I'll be in Tampa next week with 3 friends for the NCAA tourney, staying in Ybor City. We are all men in our mid-40's (or so! lol). My friends aren't very chowhoundish, so I'm looking for suggestions in Ybor and downtown that would be "middle of the road" enough for them, but hopefully chowhoundish enough for me. Looking for more casual places as opposed to fine dining. So far, I'm thinking about the Green Iguana and Tampa Bay Brewing. Other suggestions would be welcome. Thanks so much!

[steakman55]

Bern's Steakhouse on South Howard is an internationally famous place for its prime dry aged steaks and one of the best wine lists in the entire United States. It is worth the visit.

[Noice]

Carolinadawg:

You've gotten good recommendations so far for your narrow request. Any chance you'll be able to venture out of Ybor/Downtown any of those days/nights? I live in downtown Tampa, and as much as I want to believe I am where the action is, it just ain't so. But you won't have a bad time, I'm sure, if you stick with the suggestions you've received so far and have a sufficient amount of beers. Enjoy the tourney.

Noice

[carolinadawg]

Thanks to everyone for the help. Noice: We won't have a car, so I don't think we'll be venturing too far from Ybor and downtown...possibly a short cab ride.

[Noice]

Carolinadawg:

Aside from the places mentioned, then, I would only add NYPD Pizza. Whenever I need to save myself from spending too much at most of the other joints in Channelside, I find my stomach and wallet satisfied at NYPD Pizza. I wouldn't go out of my way for it if the crowd is not craving pizza, but I wouldn't let the lame concept deter me, either.

Have a good time.

Noice

[SouthTampaKit]

Bernini in Ybor is also good regular Italian fare but a little more upscale environs. Or decent food but slow service at El Puerto in Ybor. Acropolis is also a good choice. But I recommend you head closer to downtown - Splitsville bar for appetizers, Tina Tapas or Gallagher's at Channelside, Cafe DuFrain at Harbour Island, the Fly in downtown.

[maladrin]

TBBC is a good choice. GI can be hit or miss, I find. La Creperia on 7th in Ybor is not expensive and should offer something for anyone. Laughing Cat is a great spot for the lunch buffet (under $10 and amazing), but more pricey for dinner (yet still very much worth it). Carmine's in Ybor is an institution. I recommend the deviled crabs, the salad with the gorgonzola dressing and the milanesa or palomilla steaks and is a great casual alternative to the Columbia.

Agent No. 9 - you're speaking of Little Sicily or Ybor Pizza and Subs - neither of which exist any more.

[Agent No. 9]

My experience is most--BUT not all--food in Ybor is yuck. I do remember a great, low-key Sicilian pizza place. Let me hunt down it's name.

Also, be sure to walk off the main strip to find a good cigar!