Cafe European

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cityhally

Joined 4 years ago

Without question...a hidden gem. I went here for a birthday dinner and I was hooked. I had friends tell me about the place but had never been. You feel like you are in a neighborhod restaurant in Europe. The dinner was fantastic, the sangria was out of this world. Even down to the salad dressing. I was so impressed. I cant wait to go again. The owners are from England and they were charming and came over to the table to say hello. Love it.

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stilettosixx

Joined 4 years ago

A wonderful little place. i have gone here to eat with a friend a few times. it is a wonderful little place that is owned by two very nice people. i prefer not to go to chain restaurants where the food comes of the conveyor belt. the is SO GOOD! i also love the mozzarella basil tomato sandwich and fries. i would recommend this to anyone who likes to find a nice, small run restaurant that has delish food!

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Tampagourmet

Joined 5 years ago

Family-owned and managed, with excellent high consistency. Six of us went there recently, for a quiet dinner at what is decidedly not a chain restaurant. Cafe European has stood the test of time by providing excellent and consistent dishes, reasonably-priced, all cooked to order, and without fuss.

The Beef Wellington is a signature dish, the Perch and the Salmon were very nicely prepared, and there are plenty of other choices from salads to pasta, and yummy desserts. It's possible to enjoy these in an unhurried atmosphere, and with parking right outside, without feeling you're in a food factory.

Definitely recommended.

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Contributor

Joined 10 years ago

Satisfying, European meals in a very cramped Euro setting make this a lunchtime favorite.. The Scene
The restaurant is tucked among a row of shops and businesses, with one glass wall facing the street. It is cramped, cozy and filled with the chatter of diners, a busy cross-section of downtowners (including some from the University of Tampa) and some who have hoofed it six or more blocks from City Hall. The tables are packed so closely together, sometimes people accidentally tip over drinks when they try to get out, but that is one of the charms of the cafe-- it feels European, and in Europe, space is always at a premium.

The Food
Try British specialties like bangers and mash-- fat, crusty sausages paired with homemade mashed potatoes-- and various specialties like pork chops or beef dishes. Regulars enjoy the delicate salmon salad--a crisp, cold assortment of greens, tomatoes, onions and pretty red cabbage topped with a hefty hunk of poached salmon, and accompanied by homemade vinaigrette. It's one of the best salads in town, and very satisfying.