- Attraction: Columbia Restaurant Celebration
- Location: 649 Front St, Celebration, FL
- Industry: Spanish & Cuban Restaurant
- Website: https://www.columbiarestaurant.com/celebration
Embark on a culinary journey steeped in over a century of tradition at the Columbia Restaurant in Celebration, a charming outpost of Florida’s oldest restaurant.
The original Columbia Restaurant first opened its doors in Tampa’s Ybor City in 1905, founded by Casimiro Hernandez, Sr., a Cuban immigrant with a vision.
Over nearly 120 years, this family-owned and operated establishment has grown into the largest Spanish restaurant in the world, with its legacy meticulously preserved by succeeding generations.
The Celebration location, established in 1997, brings the same award-winning Spanish and Cuban cuisine, rich history, and captivating ambiance to a picturesque setting just minutes from Orlando’s theme parks.
A Culinary Odyssey
The Original “1905” Salad: A true showstopper and a century-old family recipe, the “1905” Salad is a must-try. You’ll watch as it’s expertly tossed tableside, featuring crisp iceberg lettuce, julienned baked ham, natural Swiss cheese, ripe tomatoes, olives, grated Romano cheese, and their renowned garlic dressing.
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Keep Exploring →It’s a fresh, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying dish that’s even earned accolades from USA Today.
Authentic Spanish & Cuban Cuisine: The menu is a vibrant tapestry of classic Spanish and Cuban flavors, perfected over generations. You can savor traditional Paella a la Valenciana, brimming with saffron rice, clams, mussels, shrimp, scallops, calamari, chicken, and pork, a truly comprehensive and delightful dish.
For those seeking Cuban comfort, the Roast Pork a la Cubana is a tender, slow-roasted favorite.
Signature Sangria: No visit to Columbia is complete without indulging in their famous Sangria de Cava. This refreshing Spanish wine punch, available by the glass or pitcher, is blended with fresh fruit and is so popular they even sell their secret mix. It’s the perfect accompaniment to your meal, enhancing the flavors and atmosphere.
Fresh Seafood Creations: As a Florida institution, Columbia excels in its fresh seafood offerings. You’ll discover delectable options like the Grouper Jimmy, a boneless fillet of fresh grouper, seasoned and grilled, then topped with blue crab meat and drizzled with a zesty lemon-butter sauce, served with yellow rice and asparagus.
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Discover MoreDelectable Dessert Selections: Save room for dessert! The Key Lime Pie, based on a recipe from the great-grandmother of a family member, offers a perfect balance of tart and sweet with a rich meringue topping. Their flan is also a popular choice for a classic Spanish sweet ending.
Atmosphere & Décor
Old-World Elegance and Charm: The Columbia Restaurant in Celebration instantly transports you to a bygone era of classic Spanish elegance.
You’ll be surrounded by an interior featuring high ceilings, grand arched windows, rich wooden accents, and hand-painted tiles. The attention to detail in the décor, often adorned with family heirlooms and historical photographs, evokes a sense of timeless tradition and grandeur.
Vibrant Yet Refined: Despite its elegant setting, the atmosphere remains inviting and lively. The dining rooms are spacious, allowing for comfortable conversation while still offering a vibrant buzz.
The lighting is typically warm and inviting, creating a pleasant dining experience whether you’re there for lunch or a special dinner.
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Keep Exploring →Picturesque Waterfront Views: Overlooking Celebration’s beautiful lake, the restaurant offers an idyllic backdrop for your meal. You can choose to dine in their old-world-style dining rooms, an outdoor café, or a charming courtyard, each providing lovely views of the picturesque surroundings.
Other Considerations
Prime Location in Celebration: The Columbia Restaurant benefits from its location in the charming, planned community of Celebration. You’ll find it within walking distance of other boutiques, shops, and attractions, making it a perfect anchor for a leisurely afternoon or evening out in the area.
Family-Friendly Dining: The Columbia Restaurant welcomes guests of all ages, making it an excellent choice for family outings. The diverse menu offers something for everyone, and the engaging ambiance ensures a memorable experience for both adults and children.
Mid-to-Upper Tier Pricing, Worth the Experience: You’ll find the pricing to be in the mid-to-upper tier, reflecting the quality of the ingredients, the generous portions, and the exceptional dining experience.
Many visitors agree that the food, service, and atmosphere combine to offer excellent value for a special occasion or a memorable meal.
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Discover MoreReservations Recommended: Given its popularity, especially during peak dining hours and weekends, it’s highly recommended that you make reservations to secure your preferred dining time. You can easily do this online through their website or OpenTable.
Columbia Restaurant Celebration
📍 649 Front St, Celebration, FL
