St. Petersburg, Florida is welcoming a new dining destination to its downtown core: Central Park Food Hall. The 28,000-square-foot space, located at 551 Central Avenue, began a phased opening this week, offering a diverse range of culinary experiences. The project, spearheaded by Hi Hospitality Group, aims to create a community hub reminiscent of its namesake, New York City’s Central Park.
“The name Central Park comes from being on Central Avenue, but also a tip of the hat to Central Park in New York,” explained Natalia Levey, Founder of Hi Hospitality Group. Levey and her husband, former residents near the iconic New York park, sought to replicate its vibrant atmosphere. “Central Park has always felt like We see the heartbeat of the city,” she said. “It is where people come, where they make memories, they come together. There are sports and food and all kinds of events and music, and it just feels like that’s where people come to make memories or rest or get away and connect.” The food hall is built on the site of the former Woolworth building, and incorporates a preserved section of the original 100-year-old wall.
Currently, Palm Avenue Deli and Constellation Burger are open to the public, operating from 5 p.m. To 10 p.m., alongside the main bar and a substantial beer wall. Culinary Director Hart Lowry emphasized a balance between familiar favorites and innovative offerings. “With each menu, we wanted, let’s say, half of the food to be kind of familiar, something that you crave, and you come in for multiple times a week, but also be able to kind of showcase some new ingredients and techniques with other menu items,” Lowry said. “Maybe people try things a little outside of their comfort zone.”
Expanding Culinary Choices
Over the coming weeks, Central Park Food Hall will continue to expand its offerings, adding concepts including a pasta restaurant, a pizzeria, a salad bar, a taqueria, and Asian cuisine. The developers are also planning a full-service restaurant, a rooftop space, a high-end bar, and a members-only club across the five floors of the building, according to Levey. The food hall will offer customers the option to order via QR codes or kiosks, as well as traditional counter service.
Levey highlighted the project’s broader ambition. “It is about so much more than just a place to come for food. It’s a place to come with friends and family and celebrate all the special moments and truly become part of the community,” she said. The space will also feature artwork from local artists and plans are underway for regular programming, such as trivia nights.
The development of Central Park Food Hall faced several hurdles, including structural challenges during the building’s restoration, the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, and impacts from recent hurricanes. Despite these obstacles, the project has moved forward, aiming to revitalize a key area of downtown St. Petersburg. The Business Journals reported on the phased opening, noting the long-awaited arrival of the food hall.
Challenges and Community Focus
The project’s journey wasn’t without its difficulties. Levey noted the challenges encountered during the restoration process, as well as the broader impacts of the pandemic and severe weather events. However, the team persevered, incorporating elements that celebrate the local community, such as the preserved original wall and artwork from local artists. The FOX 13 Tampa Bay also covered the opening, highlighting the community aspect of the project.
Central Park Food Hall represents a significant investment in downtown St. Petersburg’s dining and entertainment scene. The phased opening allows for a controlled rollout, ensuring a quality experience as each concept comes online. The St. Pete Rising provides a comprehensive list of the food concepts planned for the hall.
Looking ahead, the completion of Central Park Food Hall promises to be a catalyst for further development and activity in the area. The remaining food concepts are expected to open in the coming weeks, and the addition of the rooftop, high-end bar, and members-only club will further enhance the venue’s appeal. The project’s success will likely influence future development projects in downtown St. Petersburg, solidifying its position as a vibrant culinary and entertainment destination.
What are your thoughts on the new Central Park Food Hall? Share your comments below and let us know which concept you’re most excited to try!
