Growing up in South Florida, I can truly appreciate a good Cuban sandwich. There aren’t many places that can get it “just right.” Sure, there are plenty of excellent restaurants and cafes down in the Miami area that have mastered the Cuban, but how about in the Tampa Bay area? Many believe that Ybor City is like a second Little Havana, and perhaps so, but living in St. Petersburg I don’t exactly relish the idea of having to commute nearly 20 minutes into Tampa just to grab a tasty sandwich. So where’s a girl to go in Pinellas County for yummy Cuban cuisine?
The Floridian, just off of the Treasure Island Causeway, is the next best thing to getting my Miami fix. I had only driven by this place about a hundred times, but never actually parked and gone in. I had heard phenomenal things about The Floridian; how great the food is, the friendly staff, the laid back atmosphere, its ideal location. So why did it take me such a long time to actually get inside this fabulous little eatery? Who knows, maybe I just didn’t think their sandwiches could possibly compare to the “real deal.” But now that I know how delicious The Floridian really is, I can’t seem to stay away.
Voted Tampa Bay’s “Best Cuban Sandwich” by both local newspapers and news channels alike, The Floridian aims to please. Their trademark Cuban comes in two sizes; twelve inches and nine. The bread is toasted perfectly and the mustard/mayo mix is just right; not the least bit overwhelming. The sandwich is loaded with mouth-watering meats including ham, spiced pork, and Genoa salami, layered on just right and mixed in with imported Swiss cheese.
If the traditional Cuban isn’t what you are craving, there are plenty of other yummy sandwiches. For instance, there’s the Roast Turkey or Tuna Melt, made with homemade Albacore Tuna salad. For a close second to the Cuban, one may try the Spiced Pork, prepared with a delicious Mojo marinade.
The Floridian is so much more than just sandwiches, however. The soups are simply heavenly at this Treasure Island hot spot. The famous Floridian Bean Soup is sensational and a must-try. This soup is hearty and is especially satisifying on a cooler day. There is no shortage of ham, pork, chorizo in this dish. Hardly bland, the soup is full of flavor, and mixes in garlic and Collard greens to boot. It’s definitely a favorite of mine. Another great choice is The Floridian’s Black Bean Soup, served up with onions and toast. This is no side dish, as it makes for a perfect meal all in itself.
Combo plates are also very popular at this beachy little cafe. You can pair just about any sandwich will either black beans and rice, or one of the soups. There are also black bean and yellow rice plates.
The sides are just as amazing as the actual entrees. One that tops the list for me is the Devil Crab, which is a breaded and deep fried dough roll served up with seasoned Blue Crab inside. Scrumptious! According to the folks at The Floridian, this is an authentic Tampa dish. The Stuffed Potato side is equally delectable. Once again, it is breaded and deep fried, but there is no crab here. Simply a potato ball with an inside of seasoned ground beef and pork. If you want to keep it easy, just order up some Cuban toast, potato chips or good ol’ Plantain chips.
As far as a casual beachy atmosphere, well, The Floridian personifies that. Most folks who dine in or take out at this cafe, come in either barefoot or with their brightly colored flip-flops on. Sandy legs and sun burned backs are pretty standard in this place, and no one looks twice at bathing suit clad patrons. Friendly and relaxed, The Floridian is the perfect spot to visit after a long, hot day at the shore. There’s indoor seating, but most prefer to sit outside on the cool, covered deck.
For those choosing to dine in, beer is served, including one of my favorites, Landshark. There’s also plenty of other cold refreshments, including iced tea and lemonade.
Trays are available for parties. Cut-up sandwiches are served on a dome tray and are enough for 6-8 people. Be sure to call ahead.
Open daily from 11-9
For take-out orders call, 367-6662
Located at 230 Treasure Island Causeway (107th Ave.), Treasure Island, FL
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