There are plenty of good places to eat in Tampa, with a huge concentration of lively restaurants in Ybor City.

Bernini 1702 7th Ave, Ybor City tel 813/248-0099. An Italian joint that serves up wood-fired pizza and pasta in the lovely old Bank of Ybor City.

Caf Creole 1330 E 9th Ave, Ybor City tel 813/247-6283. Good Creole food comes at reasonable prices the Creole sampler platters will give you a taste of everything for $12.25.

Caf Pep 2006 W Kennedy Blvd tel 813/253-6501. This moderately priced restaurant has been a Tampa landmark for years. Enjoy Spanish and Cuban favorites like filete salteado and paella.

Castillo's 1823 7th Ave, Ybor City tel 813/248-1306. One of the best places to sample real Cuban sandwiches and invigorating Cuban coffee.

The Columbia 2117 E 7th Ave, Ybor City tel 813/248-4961, www.columbiarestaurant.com . A tourist institution, the city's oldest restaurant serves fine Spanish and Cuban food. It also offers flamenco dancing six nights a week. Reservations recommended.

Joffrey's Coffee House 1616 7th Ave, Ybor City tel 813/248-5282. The delectable aromas of fruit, coffee and chocolate are always thick in the air at this reasonably priced coffee house.

Shells 11010 N 30th St tel 813/977-8456. Convenient for the hotels near Busch Gardens, this cheap and cheerful seafood restaurant serves consistently good fresh fish to an enthusiastic crowd.