Hyde Park is Tampa’s most stylish neighborhood for a reason. The historic bungalows + tree-lined streets are some of the prettiest in the city —- especially at the holidays. Over the past few years, the village has added even more chic restaurants + incredible shopping — so we wanted to check out what’s currently brewing here. Even if you have your mainstay Friday night dinner picks, it might be time to find a new fave.

Hyde Park markets brings out hundreds of residents for shopping and community. | Photo by @hydeparkvillage

Need to know

Have your sights set on Hyde Park, it may cost you a pretty penny. In recent years, Hyde Park has become one of the most popular — and expensive — neighborhoods in Tampa Bay with the median home price hovering right below $1 million, according to Redfin.com. But that price scores you a happy home in an area walkable to the newest restaurants, shopping, farmers’ markets and top-rated schools.

A 1930 home in the budding South Tampa neighborhood. | Photo via Wikimedia Commons

The early days

Hyde Park is one of Tampa’s oldest neighborhoods — which you can probably tell from driving past its mix of well-kept Craftsman bungalows and brick Colonial revivals.

The storied neighborhood has roots back to 1886, when Illinois native O.H. Platt (yes, that Platt) bought 20 acres + divvied them up into plots — renaming the area after the Chicago community of the same name. Hyde Park Village didn’t come until 1985, when developers built an open-air shopping plaza with names like Polo Ralph Lauren and Jacobson's.

But the upward growth soon stopped. Just two decades ago, the Village was made up of empty storefronts, and some neighbors formed a watch group to help curtail crime. Things changed when WS Development bought the Village in 2013 — bringing in an influx of trendier stores and making the historic destination the hot spot for eaters and shoppers it is today.

Can’t miss

The quintessential Hyde park experience has to include a stop at the monthly fresh market. Stop by on Sunday after mass or brunch and enjoy the range of sourdough sellers, local artists and bakers selling their creations. Then grab apps at bartaco or a lil' something’ sweet from the Sprinkles cupcake vending machine.

Shop

Tampa’s shopping is A1 with its beautifully kept International Plaza, but the Village is the place to search for eclectic pieces and designer moments.

Newly opened Zimmerman is one of just eight locations of the Austrian luxury retailer across the US. Their line includes swoon-worthy romantic dresses and more.
Browse a range of curated, fashion-forward pieces at Canvas Fashion Gallery.
Shop diamonds and watches aplenty at locally owned Old Northeast Jewelers and let them care for your treasures for years to come.

Eat + drink

In our ever-so-humble opinion, Hyde Park is home to some of the best restaurants in Cigar City — from upscale restaurants to laid -back spots to grab a tasty red.

We like Forbici Modern Italian for date night — order the Calabrian chicken wings and Quattro Formaggi pizza to split.
Foodie fave On Swann is a must for locally sourced dishes.
Tucked in next to Buddy Brew is the Wine Exchange Bistro & Wine Bar — an elegant, European-inspired spot to grab a glass of pinot and relax.
Old school diner-inspired Goody Goody has some of the best burgers — but also pie — in town.
The restaurant of the moment is the contemporary Meat Market Steakhouse — and don’t skip the cocktails.

Entertainment

Hyde Park's buzziest attractions may be the shops, restaurants and architecture, but it’s also a great place to spend a date night or bring a new pal.

We love making our own signature-scented votives at The Candle Pour.
Glam up a movie night at the chic CMX CinéBistro where you can simultaneously eat an excellent meal and catch the latest film.
Sur La Table offers excellent cooking classes on everything from cheffing up Danishes to honing your knife skills.
Intense workout mecca Barry's Bootcamp is opening soon in the village — and we recommend heading over to Clean Juice after for a post-sweat refresh.

Where to live

If you’re sold + looking to buy a home in the area, here are some housing options currently on the market:

829 Bayshore Blvd | 4 BD, 4 BA |$3,785,000| Built in 1917, this classic home is at a prime location right on Bayshore, with a sunny breakfast room and wood floors.
600 S Newport Ave. | 4 BD, 4 BA | 1,425,000 | Calling all HGTV fans, this home was renovated by the network this year, and is just a 10-minute walk from Downtown Hyde Park.
1000 W Horatio St APT 105 | 1 BD, 1 BA | $249,999| This condo unit keeps you close to the South Tampa action, but happy at home with a renovated bathroom and pool access.