Best Dining Any Time of Day -
Clear Sky Beachside Cafe
Best Local Band -
Helios Jazz Orchestra
Founded in 2008 and led By Dr. Dave Manson, this group of
talented musicians brings back the big band sound, as they
play the old standards. They are the ensemble-in-residence at
St. Petersburg College and have performed at the Clearwater
Jazz Festival, the St. Petersburg Jazz Festival, The Palladium at
St. Petersburg College and many other events.
Best Tappanyaki -
Koto Steakhouse & Sushi Bar
The fun and excitement of this Japanese style of dining takes
trained chefs with a sense of humor, as they use their skills to
make delicious food while they entertain their guests.
533 S. Howard Avenue, Tampa, (813) 964-6808
Best Place to Dock and Dine -
The Pub Waterfront Restaurant
Come by boat or car and enjoy great casual food and generous
drinks. A lively crowd has made this one of the area’s favorite
meeting spots for years. 26025 Gulf Boulevard, Indian Shores,
(727) 595-3172
Best Way to Get Healthy -
Dr. César Lara
Known for his effective weight management programs,
Dr. Lara is also on the leading edge of biodential hormone
replacement therapy. He has offices in Clearwater, Palm
Harbor and St. Petersburg. (727) 446-3021
Best Tavern - Salt Rock Tavern
This creation by Frank Chivas is a modern tavern on steroids.
With 37 beers on tap, as well as a broad and creative menu,
they can satisfy any craving you may have. Their Sunday
Brunch buffet is a true bargain. 3689 Tampa Road, Oldsmar,
(813) 336-4977
Best Place to Find a Buy -
J. A. Vassel Art and Antique Gallery
This small shop is filled with good bargains, as proprietor
John Vassel buys, sells, appraises and consigns some of the
finest items in the area. 735 Broadway, Dunedin,
(727) 734-0360
Best New Sports Team -
The Rowdies
Bill Edwards’ purchase of this team has energized Tampa Bay
area fans; and with Bill’s backing, soccer is sure to become a
very popular sport here.
Best Mom and Pop Dining -
Sages West Bay Bistro
Patty and Mike have developed a special place to eat as they
carefully cook, serve and oversize the delicious Italian food at
their unpretentious and appealing restaurant. 883 West Bay
Drive, Largo, (727) 585-6600
Best Exterminator -
Brantley Termite and Pest Control
Bugs are part of Florida living, and we all have them and want
to be able to depend on someone to eliminate them. Brantley
covers it all from termites in your home to those creatures in
your lawn. (727) 541-5940
Best Bistro -
Cork N Brew Bistro
This is the ideal place to enjoy a selection of wines and
craft beers that are paired with their unique assortment of
appetizers, small plates and flatbreads. This is why people
love bistros. 524 Mandalay Avenue, Clearwater Beach,
(727) 483-5990
Best Asian Restaurant -
T.C. Choy’s Asian Bistro
Whether you’re longing for Peking Duck, Vanilla Walnut
Shrimp, or a whole fried fish, this is where you want to
go. They serve everything from sushi to Dim Sum in a
sophisticated environment that is both elegant and gracious.
301 South Howard Avenue, Tampa, (813) 251-1191
Best Oldies Shows -
Richard Nader Productions
This is one of the longest operating concert promotion firms in
the country, which is now being operated by Deborah Nader
of Clearwater. For 15 years, their Annual Doo Wop show at
Ruth Eckerd Hall has sold out, as does their fall cruise.
Best Educational Exhibits -
The Museum of Science
& Industry (MOSI)
This unique space has everything from the finest IMAX
system for viewing films to outstanding visiting exhibits, as
well as a zip line. There are so many things to see, do and
learn at MOSI that one visit is never enough. Individuals of
all ages are fascinated by the learning opportunities at this
Tampa Bay landmark. 4801 East Fowler Avenue in Tampa,
(813) 987-6300.
48 TAMPA BAY MAGAZINE MAY/JUNE 2015