I'm going to be in Tampa for a week in May (business travel, unfortunately).  It's a new city for me, so I'm looking for some recommendations on places to eat.  I'm good with any type of food, as long as it's good.

I don't know if I'm going to manage to free up time for anything other than work and eating, but if there's anything else in Tampa that I shouldn't miss, please let me know.  

Thanks!

Cuban! Don't follow the usual advice to go to the Columbia or La Teresita. You want somewhere real, and slightly dingy, like my favorite, El Gallo De Oro. They're only open for lunch though.

Also, our BBQ is not bad, and is very ecumenical, not really favoring one region or another. Mission BBQ and First Choice are my favorites. Kojaks used to be good but is now riding on it's reputation. If you go to Mission, get there before noon, because they play the national anthem everyday at noon. It's cool to see an entire restaurant (including the workers) stop what they're doing, stand, and honor the flag.

Also, seafood. Big Ray's Fish Camp in Tampa, and Frenchy's in Clearwater.

Also, stop by Shooter's World.

I've only been to Bush Gardens  & some rather interesting entertainment spots.

Area? Westshore, downtown or university?

It looks like I'll be close to the Tampa airport, whatever part of town that is, but I'm willing to take a drive to get to anything good.

Cuban is an excellent suggestion!  I like the sound of El Gallo de Oro.  Definitely on the list now.

People watch a Ybor. Enjoy a cigar. 

If you're a cigar guy, check out Davidoff lounge in Westshore.

Ulele is North of the Riverwalk North of downtown. Very trendy with a unique Florida menu.
You've probably already heard of Bern's steakhouse in SoHo.
Charley's steakhouse in Westshore is very good.
IF you feel like travelling across the Bay....
Salt Rock Grill in Indian Rocks Beach
Island Way Grill in Clearwater Beach

Texas Cattle Company in St. Pete for steak. I think it's better than Bern's and it supposedly has the same owners and meat as Charley's in Tampa.

The best Cuban close to you would be 10 minutes S of West Shore Mall at Robert's meats, 3435 S West Shore, 33629, Take out, 832 3584. Have it pressed with mustard, mayo and pickles only. NO LETTUCE OR TOMATO! An abomination on a Cuban. Great smoked pulled pork, ribs, Amber Jack spread and Smoked Mullet too. Killer Grouper sandwich also.

For steaks, If you can't snag reservations at Bern's, Charlie's on Cypress is excellent.