+1 813-252-4712
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Tampa’s E Adamo Drive corridor, Tropical Cuisine is a Dominican and breakfast restaurant that effortlessly captures the warmth and bold flavors of the Caribbean. This local gem serves up an authentic dining experience that transports you straight to the islands, where spices, freshness, and tradition meet on every plate.
The moment you sit down at Tropical Cuisine, your senses awaken: the rich aroma of oxtail stewing gently, the tantalizing sizzle of stewed codfish with green bananas, and the inviting fragrance of freshly brewed café con leche evoke memories of a lively Caribbean kitchen. Their menu is a celebration of Dominican culinary heritage, featuring standout dishes such as the perfectly seasoned Rabo (Oxtail), succulent Roast Pork (Pernil) piled high on soft Cuban bread, and crispy, golden empanadas de carne that crackle with flavor. For those craving comfort breakfast options, Tropical Cuisine offers hearty sandwiches including sausage, egg, and cheese or simpler favorites like a classic egg and cheese sandwich — all freshly made and affordably priced.
The extensive menu doesn’t stop there. Lush, vibrant plates like avocado salad, tangy ceviche, and creamy black beans and rice showcase the diverse flavors that have delighted guests time and again. Sweet tooths will appreciate house-baked treats like moist guava cupcakes and rich carrot cake, perfect for pairing with hot coffee or fresh tropical juices.
The atmosphere inside Tropical Cuisine is unpretentious, spotless, and inviting — a true neighborhood hotspot where families and locals come together to enjoy generous portions and genuine hospitality. Reviewers consistently praise the clean environment and attentive service, with patrons like Jared Hurst calling it a “local spot for excellent Dominican food” and William Haun noting the restaurant’s authentic vibe, “full of Spanish-speaking locals” that make the experience feel warm and genuine. Guests are often drawn back by the bold, flavorful seasoning and hearty meals that satisfy both craving and comfort.
Whether you're stopping by for an energizing breakfast sandwich or indulging in a slow-cooked stew like sancocho or pollo guisado, Tropical Cuisine delivers with vibrant, soulful dishes that are both authentic and deeply satisfying. It's more than a meal — it’s a flavorful journey to the Dominican Republic without leaving Tampa.
For a taste of true Caribbean hospitality and rich, unforgettable flavors, Tropical Cuisine is a destination that shines brightly in Tampa’s culinary landscape.
I know how it looks from outside, but bruh! WhT a gem. Local spot for excellent Dominican food. Place is spotless. Service is great. Well run, clean with tons of variety. New favorite.
So it was hard to communicate because their primary language is Spanish. I'm talking thinking they understood me because she was smiling lol. So this place is getting a four out of five not because of the language barrier but because the food wasn't all that. There were a few that understood English better so I was able to order. I got oxtails, red beans, beans and rice and some plantain mash. I'm not a big plantain person but I got to just to try it. I will say this took two or three bites and threw it away. It was giving me lumpy mashed potatoes vibes. The oxtails was my first time trying it. It has a tomatoey flavor but bland. The best thing about the plate was the yellow beans and rice. Yum. Then I got the lunch special the black beans and rice with pulled pork. Delicious pork. Beans and rice were good too but again kinda bland. I got roasted potatoes which has a miniscule hint of butter or garlic otherwise bland. I think with my family being from Louisiana and transplanting in California I'm used to flavor and salt. So for that it's okay. But I also ordered a beef empanada . First one ever. It was good! So if I go back I'm definitely getting empanadas, pulled pork and the yellow rice. The staff's kindness was better than the food. I prefer Jamaican oxtail so far. I love Florida
Food and service was good... would definitely eat here again.. I ordered the oxtails with rice.. good portions, flavorful
The flavors are great! That yummy Dominican / Puerto Rican spices and bold flavors jump right out in every dish I’ve tried so far. The Rabo (Oxtail for the gringos), so tasty. The sancocho (Mixed stew) well developed flavors and a hearty meal by itself. The location is very relaxed and welcoming for fans of Caribbean food. Even looking at the trays of food, you’ll see life, color! At a nearby location, the food just looks sad and overcooked in the trays. Give these folks a chance.
Swung by here with my family on the way to Orlando. Right off the bat I noticed it was full of Spanish-speaking locals so I knew it was going to be good and authentic. The place delivered! A huge variety of options, savory plates and generous portions. My family of four ate their fill (plus had leftovers to take away) and we sample four different Latin canned drinks (the Yerbe Mate was my favorite, the Kola Champagne was my little one’s favorite) and the total bill was only $36! I highly recommend you try this place out in your road trip instead of settling for generic franchises or fast food.
Their food is so dang good. Told myself I was only going to eat half of what I purchased for lunch and damn near ate the whole thing. Not to mention, the guava smoothie also was the icing on the cake for me! Haven't ate the coconut flan yet. But I am almost positive that it's going to be amazing too.