Could I fit even one more bite? The answer, of course, was yes – but only if that bite involved something light, refreshing, and, let’s be honest, slightly virtuous.

Enter Psomi, an airy, sunlit gem tucked away in West Tampa. As I walked in, stomach full but heart open, I was immediately greeted by an inviting mix of Mediterranean charm and Tampa cool, where natural light spilled across cosy seating and modern decor. My heart was whispering, ‘You know you have room for one more’.

In that spirit, I opted for Psomi’s Med Morning Yogurt Bowl. Don’t be fooled by its modest name – this bowl was a masterpiece of textures and flavours. Fresh berries, house-made granola with just the right crunch, and a sprig of mint, all draped in a drizzle of Greek thyme honey that tasted like sunshine. The bowl was light enough to fit within my three-day gastronomic journey yet delicious enough to make me consider ordering seconds.

Established in 1905, Columbia is Florida’s oldest restaurant and a beloved institution still owned and operated by the same family, now in its fourth generation.

The ambiance, with its Spanish-style architecture and labyrinthine rooms and lively atmosphere only heightened my anticipation. I eagerly ordered their famous Cuban sandwich, a dish deeply rooted in Tampa’s history.

The Cuban sandwich was created by Cuban immigrants working in Ybor City’s bustling cigar factories in the late 19th century and features layers of roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard, all pressed between crispy Cuban bread.

Columbia’s version was exemplary – the crispy bread and savoury fillings melded together beautifully, each bite a delicious homage to its storied past. Paired with the restaurant’s signature 1905 Salad, a refreshing blend of lettuce, tomatoes, olives, Swiss cheese, ham, and their famous garlic dressing made tableside, it was as good as I have tasted anywhere in the US.

Created in August 2014, this popular park has played a significant role in regenerating the neighbourhood.

Previously underutilised and neglected spaces are now a vibrant community hub, with restaurants and bars including the location of my next culinary stop, Ulele.

Ulele celebrates the flavours of Florida’s indigenous and multicultural influences. I started with their charbroiled oysters, a house specialty. The oysters were plump and juicy, with a smoky flavour that lingered on the palate.

For the main course, I chose the meatloaf, a classic dish that Ulele elevates with their cabernet garlic demi-glace, roasted garlic mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables. The combination of flavours and the restaurant’s beautiful setting makes it a favourite with locals.

My penultimate dining experience was a dinner cruise aboard Craft Tampa, a new addition to Tampa’s thriving culinary scene. Set aboard a multi-million pound cruiser specifically built to navigate the low bridges of Hillsborough River, it is designed to resemble riverboats that are found in Europe.

As we gently floated on the Hillsborough River with the cool breeze whipping through the ship, I started with the tomato bisque, a rich and creamy soup with a hint of sweetness to it.

The menu featured a variety of delectable dishes for my main course, but the standout was the Korean barbecued octopus, which came with ramen noodles, pea shoots, wild mushrooms, chilli tamari butter, and fried garlic. The combination of flavours and textures was exquisite, with the tender octopus perfectly complemented by the rich, savoury accompaniments with a hint of chilli.

I sat aboard enjoying the delicious dinner for two hours as I watched the bright blue sky of Tampa slowly dim to dusk and lights on the shore start to twinkle. This was yet another example of how Tampa’s food scene is evolving.

There was time for one last lunch before my culinary tour of Tampa ended. I headed to Predalina, a vibrant spot known for its eclectic Mediterranean menu. I began with the crudité and pita, accompanied by a selection of hummus, muhammara, spicy whipped feta, and the exceptional htipiti.

For the main course, I opted for the lamb pita, a delectable combination of shredded lamb, herb tabbouleh, garlic toum, and Calabrian aioli. The blend of flavours and textures was simply outstanding, making Predalina another standout restaurant in Tampa’s downtown.

Reflecting on my time in Tampa, I was struck by the city’s ability to blend traditional dishes and innovation seamlessly. From the historic simple charm of Columbia Restaurant to the modern sophistication of Azure at Edition, each dining experience offered a unique setting and experience.

Whether savouring a classic Cuban sandwich or discovering the fresh flavours of local seafood, every meal was a testament to the city’s vibrant and diverse food scene. Tampa’s culinary landscape is a reflection of its cultural diversity and history, offering a multitude of flavours that cater to all palates.

This journey through Tampa’s eateries not only satisfied my hunger but also enriched my appreciation for the city’s rich culinary traditions. For anyone looking to embark on a gastronomic adventure, Tampa promises a feast for the senses, filled with unforgettable flavours and experiences.