# @samanthakeyy on Instagram

- **Type:** Image
- **Original URL:** https://www.instagram.com/p/C1XmGmrRRTr
- **Gondola URL:** https://gondola.cc/posts/13332797-samanthakeyy-instagram
- **Thumbnail:** https://img.gondola.cc/tr:w-,h-,fo-auto/thumbnails/058fb1f6e6.jpg
- **Posted:** 2023-12-27T19:44:51.000+00:00
- **Account Owner:** Samantha Key (@Samanthakeyy) — https://gondola.cc/Samanthakeyy

## Caption

Celebrating 120 Years of Tradition at Columbia Restaurant! Swipe left to dive into the rich history of Florida’s oldest continuously operated restaurant and the oldest Spanish eatery in the U.S. 

Founded in 1903 as Saloon Columbia, this iconic establishment transformed into the Columbia Restaurant in 1905, becoming a cornerstone of Ybor City. Today, it sprawls across 52,000 sq ft, seating 1,700 guests, making it the largest Spanish restaurant globally! 

The story of Casimiro Hernandez, Sr., and his journey from Spain to Tampa is a testament to the American dream.  The family’s commitment over five generations has turned the Columbia into a symbol of success, with locations in Sarasota, St. Augustine, Sand Key, Celebration, and more! 

In the 1950s, César Gonzmart swapped his musical career for restaurateurship, infusing live music into the dining experience. Today, Maria Esparza continues the tradition with flamenco dance shows, sharing the culture of Spain through art. 

The Columbia isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a philanthropic force! Since 1997, their Community Harvest campaign has donated 5% of guests’ checks to various charities, raising over $1.8 million for Florida nonprofits. 

Did you know? The original restaurant’s wine list boasts 1,000 wines, and the house sangria is mixed tableside, becoming a social media sensation! 

Mark your calendars for a trip back in time – “1905 Day” might make a return in 2025 for their 120th anniversary! Join us in celebrating the enduring legacy of the Columbia Restaurant! 🥂

#colombiarestaurant #tampahistory #tampa #flordia #thecolombia #tampacolombianrestaurant

## Stats

- **Views:** 0
- **Likes:** 33
- **Shares:** 0
- **Comments:** 4

## Credits

| Name | Username | Profile | Role |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Samantha Key | @Samanthakeyy | https://gondola.cc/Samanthakeyy | Real Estate Service |

## Tags

thecolombia, colombiarestaurant, tampahistory, tampa, tampacolombianrestaurant, flordia

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