Fairoaks - Tampa, FL

When the Spanish conquistadors came to this part of Florida, they discovered several settlements of the Tocoboga people, who inhabited many areas along the western coast of Florida. Not much is known about this culture or period of time in the region's history. By the early 19th century, Cuban and Native American fisherman were known to have lived near Bayshore Boulevard, only a short distance east of Fairoaks Manhattan Manor. The area became somewhat populated throughout the 19th century, however real urban settlement did not begin until after 1880 when the discovery of local deposits of phosphate caused exporting to boom.

Modern Tampa was shaped by industrial growth during World War II. After the war, the city saw its biggest spurt in growth, causing a wealth of new businesses and industries to form. Today, Southern Tampa has come to house mostly residential districts, all of mixed racial descent.

A simple walk around Fairoaks Manhattan Manor can reveal several different options for high-quality cafes, restaurants and pubs.

When you're in the mood for a casual and filling meal, stop by EATS American Grill. Snack on the free house-made potato chips and dip while you decide between the macaroni and cheese fritters or the fried green tomatoes. Bring your appetite for two local favorites, the fried pork chop sandwich and the Midwestern BLT. The restaurant offers daily specials and a wide selection of draft beers.

For a thoughtful and exquisite dining experience in Fairoaks Mahattan Manor, try the authentic Italian cuisine at Trattoria Pasquale. The restaurant features a pristine design and beautiful plate presentation, even for the most basic dishes. Check out Trattoria Pasquale's Big Night for the full Italian experience. For a flat fee, Big Night provides a meticulously designed seven-course meal that includes detailed explanations from the chefs. The chefs always base the restaurant's specials on the freshest seasonal foods.

The HART bus service serves all of Hillsborough county, and maintains stops at several points along West Elucid Avenue and the Dale Mabry Highway. Both the Selmon Expressway and the Dale Mabry Highway cross through Fairoaks Manhattan Manor. The neighborhood does not have any public parking, however lots can be located further north in Tampa's downtown district.

Uber also provides a viable transportation option in and around the Tampa area. The city provides upkeep for many bike-friendly paths and roads for cyclists, including several that run through Fairoaks Manhattan Manor. Pedestrians can walk with ease in and around the surrounding neighborhoods.

To the southeast of Fairoaks Manhattan Manor, Ballast Point Park sits on the coast of Tampa Bay, enjoying scenic views of the ocean and the Tampa skyline. Boats can be docked on the pier, where many residents also find fishing to be bountiful. The playground area invites children of all ages and sizes. Residents constantly fill the lively space with community parties and picnics. Arrive during the early morning for a peaceful, quiet atmosphere.

Gadsden Park, a further drive south of the neighborhood, provides a high-energy recreational area, maintaining both a complex of courts for sports and a free dog park. This location offers a great opportunity for urban dog owners to let their four-legged friends run free and meet some new companions.

At the Tampa Black Heritage Festival, residents of all different race and heritage from all across the Tampa city area gather every January to learn, listen and celebrate together in Curtis Hixon Park, just north of Tampa Bay. The event hosts a massive live music festival, a series of educational seminars, and a golf tournament that gives the local area an enlivened and cultural vibe which reverberates throughout the community and its businesses. The event is dog-friendly and open to the public.

The average rent in Fairoaks Manhattan Manor stands at $891. The cost of living in the area hovers around 6 percent lower than the national cost of living.

Gas prices in the Tampa area fall 12 percent lower than the national average. A one-way ticket on a HART bus in Tampa costs $2. At a local pub, customers expect to pay around $5 for a beer.

For local cyclists around and outside the neighborhood, nowhere beats Street Fit 360 Bike Shop on Gandy Boulevard. It supplies everything from mountain and road bikes to clothing, helmets and shoes. The service department keeps things quick and moving, and at decent prices. The shop even hosts local bike rides and trips that kick off at the storefront.

Located on the east side of Fairoaks Manhattan Manor, Sunshine Thrift Store packs everything from clothes to antiques into its warehouse-like venue. The staff keeps the environment clean and friendly, lending the store a more upscale atmosphere. Residents shop at Sunshine for its weekly sales and large selection of women's clothing.

A Walmart Supercenter, Winn Dixie and Publix Supermarket all sit within walking distance of any location in Fairoaks Manhattan Manor. For fresh and organic foods, residents utilize Fruit of the Vine Organics, a dynamic service that connects local farmers with local residents. For a set price, customers can pick up an assorted basket of fruits and vegetables picked from local organic farms. Fruit of the Vine also sells gift baskets and organic chocolate chip cookies. Residents also head up to the Tampa Bay Farmers Market, open seven days a week on South Macdill Avenue.