El Paraiso Cafe — Restaurant in Tampa

El Paraiso Cafe was a small and fast place for service. It's located next to an industrial plant so they get lots of clientele. I arrived with a friend of mine and we were served despite this and they prepared it quickly and efficiently. I didn't get to try what my friend had but I I ordered three empanadas and paid for my friends meal too along with 2 cans of coke. It came out to a total of 17 dollars so that wasn't bad at all since the other food item was a large breakfast bacon egg and cheese sandwich. The atmosphere was good and felt homely! It was a little dirty near the front door but then again, there were workers coming in and taking dirt from the worksite nextdoor. The food was tasty without being greasy and I recommend that others try this place if they are nearby and looking...

I’m from Tampa. Spent my entire life here. I have made it my buisness to know the little “hole in wall” local places. This is exactly that. I used to come here all the time years ago. It’s been quite some time so when I moved back to this area I was eager to find out if this place survived the pandemic. Thank god it did. The cafe con leche is buttery and creamy. The Cuban toast is crunchy and soft on the inside. The food is awesome and authentic. The service is informal but I don’t mind that at all. The prices I believe are the best part. This isn’t the place that will run you 20$ for a coffee and sandwich. Ive been coming here for years and will continue to for as long as I...

This is my absolute favorite restaurant in Tampa, and probably St. Pete for that matter. I work down the street so I get lunch from El Paraiso at least twice a week. The food is absolutely delicious and you get a lot of it... for about $8. Heaven. I get a little excited before every time because they will switch up the main course sometimes but always have their staples of rice, beans, green beans, and then a choice of chicken, pork, etc... sometimes wrapped in bacon. So good. The staff is super friendly and always nice. I am craving El Paraiso right now. I live in St. Pete and driving across the bridge on the weekend for lunch is sounding pretty doable...