The Columbia Restaurant Spanish Cookbook

Comparing this cookbook to Clarita's Cocina is a lot like comparing Clarita herself to the Gonzmart family, current operators of the great Columbia Restaurant. Clarita was a M A C H I N E in a kitchen and a living encyclopedia. The Gonzmarts were and are exceptional restaurateurs, hosts and showpeople with genius minds for marketing. The recipes in Clarita's book are more numerous, well-rounded, and wide ranging. The Columbia cookbook is a story of a unique time, place, and culture that happens to contain lots of good recipes as well. I recommend buying them both....and try not to think too hard about all of the photos of the family heirs chumming it up with Franco, fascist dictator of Spain. Sigh

Having lived in Tampa for almost 25 years, we frequented the Columbia often. I have had a copy of this book ahn use it frequently, as we are very fond of true Spanish dishes. My niece just moved to Tampa, and this is a Christmas gift for her.Judy Austin

This was an amazing on a wonderful book. This book is a charming book which not only shares the story behind this iconic restaurant but it also shares delicious and authentic recipes from it! I have used these recipes many times which always turn out delicious and get rave reviews. Since I already own a copy I purchased this for my daughter so that she can make these memorable dishes for her own family and friends~ there’s something so wonderful about traditions being handed down. The seller was fantastic as this book came in wonderful condition very quickly.

Good cookbook honoring this amazing restaurant. Noticed that the version of the 1905 Salad included in this book has celery among the ingredients, which is inconsistent with the dish I've been served (many times) at the restaurant. Was the recipe modified since the publication of this book?

The Columbia Restaurant is a historic landmark in Ybor City (Tampa), Florida with excellent and authentic dishes from Spain. This cookbook is the BEST Cuban and Spanish food cookbook I've ever owned. The recipes are kitchen-tested and always turn out excellent. I highly recommend this particular cookbook, and have given three of these cookbooks as gifts, as well as having purchased one for myself.

This cookbook is from one of my favorite restaurants. Have tried some of the recipes with great success but leave my favorites to the restaurant chef. Wonderful recipes. The tapas/appetizers alone can really upgrade dinner parties if you don't want to get into anything more involved. But do try some of the fancier recipes too. The instructions are clear and results fantastic-this from a self described 'non cook'

A nice way to spend some time and learn something about Cuban cuisine.

This book is really neat. Full of culture and good food!