Hyde Park Café The house music capital of Central Florida has been operating under the radar at Hyde Park Café for nearly two decades, bringing in the biggest national and international names in house and techno to play with local and regional beat-mixers amid its Velociti room’s haze of fog and pulsing lights. Two other rooms – an open-air courtyard and swanky lounge – offer different atmospheres and a respite from all the untz. 1806 W. Platt St., Tampa, 813-254-2233, thehydeparkcafe.com.
Resident DJs: Brian Busto holds court on Fridays with Serious Soul in addition to booking all manner of talent, from Sasha and Three to DJ Pierre, while Jask has been behind the decks on Tuesday nights for his Jack’s House residency since the club’s inception in 1995.
Upcoming shows: Brian Busto, Andy Mara, Just-Steph, B.I.G. Willie (7/25); DJ Icey (7/26).
The Kennedy The closest local alternative to megaclubs seen in cities like Miami and Las Vegas. A new bar and improved sound and lighting (now employing lasers) up the ante, acting as perfect companions to the variety of genres played from night to night, including hip-hop and R&B on Freedom Fridays (hosted by Queen B of 95.7-The Beat with spins by DJs Shizm and Prophet), and Latin on Spanglish Saturdays (featuring Soltrix and Xcess as accompanied by live samba dancers). A homey patio area offers a relaxing breather, adorned with a bar, armchairs, and speakers for whoever’s spinning music outside, usually island-hued and reggae-fied sounds. 2408 W. Kennedy Blvd., 813-259-9669, thekennedysoho.com.
Past Shows: Kaskade; Wale; and Lady Gaga made an appearance here a few years ago after her show at the forum.