Tampa, Florida, a vibrant city on the Gulf Coast known for its rich Cuban heritage, historic Ybor City, and dynamic waterfront, also boasts a thriving and diverse food scene. Beyond the resort dining and national chains, the Big Guava is teeming with iconic local eateries serving up fantastic, budget-friendly bites that capture the unique flavors of Central Florida and beyond. We've explored beloved institutions and neighborhood gems, along with glowing customer reviews, to bring you a curated list of 10 must-try dishes, all for under $10, that will satisfy your cravings and introduce you to the authentic tastes of Tampa.

1. Deviled Crab from Brocato's Sandwich Shop

  • Restaurant: Brocato's Sandwich Shop

  • Description: A classic Tampa delicacy – a crispy, fried breaded ball filled with seasoned blue crab meat, peppers, and spices.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Brocato's Sandwich Shop is an absolute Tampa institution, a family-owned spot famous for its Cuban sandwiches and, more uniquely, its legendary Deviled Crab. Yelp reviewers consistently hail it as "A Tampa classic" and "perfectly fried." Many consider it a "must-try if you're in the area" for an authentic taste of local history. It's a quick, delicious, and incredibly affordable bite that's distinctly Tampa.

  • Price: ~$6-$7

  • Location: 502 E Washington St, Tampa, FL 33602

2. Cuban Sandwich (Half) from La Teresita Restaurant

  • Restaurant: La Teresita Restaurant

  • Description: A smaller portion of the quintessential Tampa Cuban sandwich, featuring roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard, perfectly pressed on Cuban bread.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: La Teresita is a beloved local Cuban restaurant in Tampa, known for its authentic flavors and bustling, diner-style atmosphere. While their full Cuban sandwiches are fantastic, a half Cuban offers a perfect and affordable taste of this iconic sandwich. Yelp reviewers consistently praise its "authentic Cuban food" and describe the sandwich as "perfectly pressed, flavorful pork." It's a foundational Tampa culinary experience.

  • Price: ~$6-$8 (for a half Cuban)

  • Location: 3246 W Columbus Dr, Tampa, FL 33607

3. Al Pastor Taco from Taco Bus

  • Restaurant: Taco Bus

  • Description: A single street-style taco featuring savory al pastor pork, grilled with pineapple, and topped with fresh cilantro and onions on a warm corn tortilla.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Taco Bus started as a single converted school bus and has grown into a popular local institution, celebrated for bringing authentic Mexican street food to Tampa. Yelp reviewers consistently hail it as a "Tampa institution" for its "great tacos" and specifically recommend the "flavorful al pastor" which is "always fresh." Ordering two or three tacos makes for a perfect, affordable, and incredibly satisfying meal.

  • Price: ~$3-$4 per taco

  • Location: Multiple locations in Tampa (e.g., 2320 N Nebraska Ave, Tampa, FL 33602)

4. Churros from La Segunda Central Bakery

  • Restaurant: La Segunda Central Bakery

  • Description: Crispy, golden-fried churros, typically dusted with cinnamon sugar, offering a sweet and satisfying bite.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: La Segunda Central Bakery is a historic landmark in Ybor City, famous for its iconic Cuban bread and a wide array of Cuban pastries and sweets. Yelp reviewers rave about their "delicious, fresh churros" and the "taste of Ybor City history" that permeates the bakery. It's a perfect, sweet, and affordable treat to enjoy while exploring the historic district.

  • Price: ~$2-$4 (for a few churros)

  • Location: 2512 N 15th St, Tampa, FL 33605

5. Café con Leche from Naviera Coffee Mills

  • Restaurant: Naviera Coffee Mills

  • Description: A classic Cuban coffee drink made with strong, dark-roasted espresso and steamed milk, creating a rich and creamy beverage.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Naviera Coffee Mills is another historic gem in Ybor City, a local coffee roaster that has been supplying Tampa with authentic Cuban coffee for over a century. Yelp reviewers consistently praise their "authentic Cuban coffee" for its "rich flavor" and invigorating kick. It's a beloved local ritual and a great way to start your day or get an afternoon boost, all while being wonderfully affordable.

  • Price: ~$3-$5

  • Location: 2012 E 7th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605

6. Empanada from Empamamas

  • Restaurant: Empamamas

  • Description: A single, gourmet empanada featuring creative and often unexpected fillings, baked or fried to a golden crisp.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Empamamas is a highly rated local empanada shop in Tampa, known for its innovative flavors and perfectly crafted empanadas. Yelp reviewers consistently praise the "creative and delicious empanadas" and highlight their "flaky crust" and "amazing fillings." Ordering one or two makes for a fantastic and very affordable meal or snack, showcasing a unique and flavorful twist on a classic comfort food.

  • Price: ~$4-$6 per empanada

  • Location: 4404 N Florida Ave, Tampa, FL 33603

7. Gyros Sandwich from Acropolis Greek Taverna

  • Restaurant: Acropolis Greek Taverna

  • Description: Slices of seasoned lamb and beef (or chicken), served in warm pita bread with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and creamy tzatziki sauce.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Acropolis Greek Taverna is a popular local Greek restaurant in Tampa, celebrated for its authentic dishes and lively atmosphere, including traditional plate breaking. Yelp reviewers consistently laud its "authentic Greek food" and the "lively atmosphere." A basic gyros sandwich offers a delicious and satisfying taste of their cuisine, often fitting comfortably within the under-$10 budget, making it a flavorful and affordable meal.

  • Price: ~$9-$10

  • Location: Multiple locations in Tampa (e.g., 1833 E 7th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605)

8. Slice of Pizza from Eddie & Sam's NY Pizza

  • Restaurant: Eddie & Sam's NY Pizza

  • Description: A large, classic New York-style pizza slice with a perfectly thin, crispy crust, topped with savory tomato sauce and gooey mozzarella cheese.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Eddie & Sam's NY Pizza is a well-regarded local spot in downtown Tampa, famous for bringing truly authentic New York-style pizza to Florida. They even use New York water! Yelp reviewers enthusiastically declare it "True NY pizza in Tampa" and praise the "great crust" and "perfect cheese." It's a reliable and delicious choice for a quick, satisfying, and authentically East Coast pizza experience in the heart of Tampa.

  • Price: ~$4-$5 per slice

  • Location: 203 E Twiggs St, Tampa, FL 33602

9. Pho (Small Bowl) from Pho 813

  • Restaurant: Pho 813

  • Description: A comforting small bowl of traditional Vietnamese pho, featuring rich aromatic broth, tender rice noodles, and your choice of thinly sliced beef or chicken, served with fresh herbs on the side.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Pho 813 is a highly rated and locally beloved Vietnamese restaurant in Tampa, known for its consistent quality and authentic flavors. Yelp reviewers consistently praise the "rich broth" and "generous portions" (even for the smaller size), calling it "comforting and authentic pho." A small bowl often fits comfortably under $10, offering a deeply satisfying and aromatic meal perfect for any weather.

  • Price: ~$9-$10 (for a small bowl)

  • Location: 3925 W Waters Ave, Tampa, FL 33614

10. Single Scoop Ice Cream from Revolution Ice Cream Co.

  • Restaurant: Revolution Ice Cream Co.

  • Description: A single scoop of their handcrafted, artisanal ice cream, made with high-quality ingredients and available in a delightful array of classic and inventive flavors.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Revolution Ice Cream Co. is a popular local artisanal ice cream shop in Tampa, celebrated for its unique and often quirky flavors and commitment to quality. Yelp reviewers consistently rave about the "creative flavors" and "super creamy" texture, calling it "my favorite ice cream in Tampa." It's the perfect, refreshing, and affordable treat to cool down on a warm Florida day, providing a comforting taste of local craftsmanship.

  • Price: ~$5-$6

  • Location: Multiple locations in Tampa (e.g., 220 W 7th Ave, Tampa, FL 33602)

Tampa's dynamic food scene proves that incredible flavors don't have to come with a hefty price tag, especially when you explore its amazing local establishments. From iconic Deviled Crab and authentic Cuban sandwiches to vibrant tacos and gourmet homemade ice cream, these ten dishes under $10 offer a fantastic way to explore the city's diverse and locally-driven culinary landscape. So, whether you're a long-time resident or just passing through, make sure to savor these delicious and affordable bites that showcase Tampa's unique charm!

Price Comparison Table

Dish Restaurant Price (Approx.) Location
Deviled Crab Brocato's Sandwich Shop $6-$7 502 E Washington St, Tampa, FL 33602
Cuban Sandwich (Half) La Teresita Restaurant $6-$8 3246 W Columbus Dr, Tampa, FL 33607
Al Pastor Taco Taco Bus $3-$4 per Multiple locations in Tampa
Churros La Segunda Central Bakery $2-$4 2512 N 15th St, Tampa, FL 33605
Café con Leche Naviera Coffee Mills $3-$5 2012 E 7th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605
Empanada Empamamas $4-$6 per 4404 N Florida Ave, Tampa, FL 33603
Gyros Sandwich Acropolis Greek Taverna $9-$10 Multiple locations in Tampa
Slice of Pizza Eddie & Sam's NY Pizza $4-$5 per 203 E Twiggs St, Tampa, FL 33602
Pho (Small Bowl) Pho 813 $9-$10 3925 W Waters Ave, Tampa, FL 33614
Single Scoop Ice Cream Revolution Ice Cream Co. $5-$6 Multiple locations in Tampa