3 days ago
Hyde Park's Forbici in legal battle as neighbors react to changes in Village
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — A popular Hyde Park restaurant is facing possible eviction, and the legal fight is drawing attention to broader concerns about the future of the neighborhood.
Court records obtained by 8 On Your Side show the landlord for Hyde Park Village filed a lawsuit against the operators of Forbici Modern Italian, citing multiple lease violations specifically exceeding seating limits and expanding without the proper permits.
'M*A*S*H' actress Loretta Swit dies at 87
The lawsuit claims the owners, listed under the corporate name CRG, were restricted to 159 guests total, including just 40 seats outside. According to the complaint, the restaurant added tables without approval from the City of Tampa.
But the legal battle has also stirred emotions among residents and business owners who said the dispute reflects a bigger shift in the identity of Hyde Park.
'I think one of the challenges is there's been a change to a little bit more upscale shopping, which affects the family atmosphere,' said Patrick Chimino, Land Use Chair of the Historic Hyde Park Neighborhood Association.
Many neighbors said they've watched some of their favorite spots disappear replaced by luxury brands and higher prices.
'Some of my favorite places are gone,' resident Eboni Staton said. 'Most of the other places are kind of expensive, so we come here as a treat.'
Despite the changes, some businesses in the Village say they're thriving.
'Our jewelry sales have never been better,' said Eric Wolf, General Manager of Old Northeast Jewelers. 'With gold prices up and a strong demand for vintage timepieces, we're having one of our best years yet.'
Still, many in the community hope a compromise can be reached.
'We do hope they do because I think they're one of those in-between type restaurant … family oriented, but it also attracts young crowds,' Chimino said.
A spokesperson for Forbici told 8 on your side they are working on an agreement with the landlord. The restaurant remains open, and no court date has been set for the eviction case.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
