Hecho a Mano

Cigar Production in Tampa and Ybor City 1886-1939
by Emanuel Leto

How were cigars made? What was the process by which tobacco was cultivated, harvested, and formed into a "Clear Havana" cigar? In this article we'll look at the physical aspects of the cigar industry in Tampa, Florida beginning with the opening of Vicente Martinez Ybor's factory in 1886 through the industry's decline in the late 1930s. How did the industry develop? How did the factories operate? Who worked in them? What jobs did they perform? Though you may be familiar with the "Ybor City Story," sometimes the simple questions get overlooked. Read more about cigar manufacturing

Welcome to Cuban Sandwich City

by Andrew Huse

This magazine could have easily been named after the Cuban Sandwich. These days, Tampa can be more easily identified by that savory creation than the cigar. Like Cuban cigars, it can be mighty difficult to find a fine Cuban sandwich. Unlike Cuban Cigars, one could argue that the so-called Cuban sandwich is more Tampa than Havana. As Cigar City Magazine launches its second issue, it is especially appropriate to re-examine our town's distinctive sandwich. Read more about the Cuban Sandwich

The Guayabera Shirt

If you take a stroll around Ybor City you will see them everywhere. The men who stop to sit and chat with friends on the benches in Centennial Park, or who drop in for a café con leche at La Tropicana on 7th Avenue or the West Tampa Coffee Shop on Howard all have something in common. They are wearing guayaberas. Read more about the Guayabera Shirt