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20 tiny restaurants in Tampa Bay that draw big praise

By Sofía García Vargas

Square-footage is not an issue with these Tampa Bay institutions. In fact, being small is part of the charm. Here are a few of our favorite local spots where the space may be tiny, seating is limited, the heat of the kitchen is often prevalent, and the flavors are always big.

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La Segunda Central Bakery

2512 N 15th St, Ybor City, 813-248-1531
Located in a town founded on Spanish culture lies one of Ybor’s coveted landmark buildings representing the Cuban-American community. Customer-favorites include café con leche, Cuban toast and, of course, the Cuban sandwich. Don't be surprised to see a line coming out of the door.
Photo via La Segunda Central Bakery/Facebook

3 Dot Dash

6203 N Florida Ave., Tampa, 813-675-4522
Located inside of Jug & Bottle Dept., a craft beer, natural wine and specialty products shop, this Seminole Heights vegan restaurant focuses on comfort food made from scratch, including chick’n, mac n cheese, and burgers.
Photo via Palm Avenue Sandwich Shop/Facebook

Ebisu Sushi Shack

5116 N Nebraska Ave, Tampa, 813-252-6393
Located in a 1928 pink bungalow on Nebraska Avenue, Ebisu Sushi Shack sets the tone in a tiny living room setting, with an izakaya-style atmosphere to serve fresh and delicious dishes, like its Orange Sunrise or Volcano Rolls.
Photo via Ebisu Sushi Shack/Google Maps

Big Ray's Fish Camp

6116 Interbay Blvd, 813-605-3615
Head to the flagship South of Gandy location of this fish shack to enjoy fresh bites like the conch fritters, grouper cheeks, and shrimp. Other dishes like a grouper reuben, Ray's signature hot chicken sandwich and even a shrimp corn dog.
Photo via Big Rays/Facebook

Taco Baby

235 Main St, Dunedin
This ATM turned taqueria is simple but effective. With only five menu items, including chips and queso, chips and salsa, yucatan popsicles, nachos with your choice of chicken, jackfruit or pork and tacos with the same meat offerings, Taco Baby is perfect for a delicious meal on the go.
Photo via Taco Baby/Facebook