BESTOf 2016
Best Bakery -
So Gourmet Bakery Cafe
This French bakery and cafe makes
the most incredible pasties that you
have ever tasted. From their almond
croissant that melts in your mouth
to their Raspberry Macarons, our
readers love this new South Tampa
cafe that becomes a wine bar and
bistro at night. 3301 S. Dale Mabry
Hwy, Tampa, (813) 835-8045.
Best Philanthropists -
Penny and Jeff Vinik
MAY/JUNE 2016
| TAMPA BAY MAGAZINE 45
Best Art Glass Gallery - Syd Entel
Galleries and Susan Benjamin Glass, etc.
For years, they have provided the area with the best works of
contemporary glass artists. They also provide museum-quality
framing and host exhibits of international artists. 247 Main
Street, Safety Harbor, (727) 725-1808
Best Entertainment - Aqua Prime
Seafood and Steaks
With its comfortable decor, tony menu and friendly service,
this sophisticated purveyor of fine food has found the right
combination for those who enjoy dining out on a regular basis
while being entertained by a variety of live performances.
213 Gulf Boulevard, Indian Rocks Beach, (727) 330-7724
Best Fine Contemporary Cuisine -
Parkshore Grill
This sophisticated Beach Drive establishment where Chef Tyson
Grant prepares innovative fare, such as Pan Fried Grouper
Cakes and Beef Wellington, for their upscale patrons is also
the place to be seen. Owner Steve Westphal’s smart dining
establishment has tables both indoors and out, an elegant bar,
and the convenience of valet parking. 300 Beach Drive N.E.,
St. Petersburg, (727) 896-WINE (9463)
Best Cupcakes - Kookie Krums
Janet Long’s Kookie Krums is more than just cookies. Try her
daily homemade cupcakes, cookie bouquets, cake pops and
other sweet creations. Some voters named their favorites,
such as “Ice Cream Sundae,” and “Party in My Mouth.” Local
delivery is available. 513 Main Street in Dunedin,
(727) 736-KRUM (5786)
Best Medi-Spa - PureLife Medi-Spa
Dr. G. Joseph “Dr. Fitz” Fitzgerald and his wife Elif’s full
service medi-spa for wellness, skincare and more offers unique
services in a glamorous and comfortable environment. They
are constantly adding new services, as they achieve remarkable
results for their clients. 12442 Indian Rocks Road in Largo,
(727) 595-3400
Best Romantic Dining - Cafe Ponte
The sophisticated decor, constantly changing innovative cuisine
and polished service keep this restaurant at the top of the list
for those who want to celebrate a special event, impress guests,
or simply enjoy fine dining. Chef Chris Ponte is the mastermind
behind this enterprise and is also considered one of the area’s
top caterers. 13505 Icot Boulevard, Clearwater, (727) 538-5768
Best Local Icon - Loew’s Don CeSar Hotel
This “Pink Palace” is the royalty of the images that represent the
beautiful beaches of Pinellas County. It is an ideal “staycation”
that seems worlds away. 3400 Gulf Boulevard, St. Pete Beach,
(727) 360-1881
Best Local CD - Nick Dukas’
One and Forever Love
This CD is named for Nick’s original song that won
him a Global Music Award. The album has two original
tracks by Nick and nine classic hits. The big band sound
combined with Nick’s vocal styling have kept this CD at
the top of the charts.
Best Radio Voice - Jack Harris
His voice is so distinctive that you recognize it the
instant he starts to speak. Whether it is at a charity event
or on the public address system at Tampa International
Airport when he is telling you about the trains to the
planes, Jack’s command of the microphone cannot be
denied. WFLA just wouldn’t be the same without him.
Best Pasco County Restaurant -
Spice Asian Fusion
This new restaurant at Richey Road and U.S. 19 in Port
Richey is worthy of an award of excellence. Its sleek,
modern decor, high-quality service and exquisitely
flavored food create the perfect recipe to make dining
here a culinary treat. 5811 Richey Drive, Port Richey,
(727) 844-9989