Best Classic American Cuisine
–– Bob Heilman’s Beachcomber
Celebrations seem to be happening at every other table in this
local institution that has been serving award-winning food
since 1948. Many diners have longstanding favorite dishes.
Their wine list is impressive, and the full bar is known for its
specialty cocktails. 447 Mandalay Ave. on North Clearwater
Beach, (727) 442-4144.
Best Classic Italian Dining –– Forlini’s Restaurant
The Forlini family has been serving Italian cuisine to their
loyal clientele since 1981. In addition to Italian staples, their
menu has fresh seafood, steaks and chops, homemade pastas
and signature dishes. Enjoy the more than 650 wine selections
that are kept in their temperature-controlled, 8000-bottle wine
room. 435 Mandalay Ave. N., Clearwater Beach,
(727) 441-1111.
Best Community Improvement
–– St. Pete Pier District
The picturesque St. Pete Pier opened in July 2020 in St.
Petersburg in the St. Pete Pier District, providing all-day
fun and adventure amid 26 acres of park space along the
water, encompassing restaurants, art, playground spaces and
museums.
Best Community Musical Theater
–– Eight O’Clock Theatre
This group of volunteers continuously presents outstanding
Broadway musicals at the Central Park Performing Arts
Center in Largo. Once you have seen one of their shows,
you will want to purchase tickets for the entire season to see
everything they do. 105 Central Park Drive, Largo, (727) 587-
6793.
Best Community Performing Arts Center –– The
Palladium Theater at St. Petersburg College
As part of St. Petersburg College, this stunning community
theater showcases a plethora of talents in their two venues ––
the main 850-seat Hough Hall and the intimate candlelit 175-
seat Side Door downstairs. 253 Fifth Ave. N., St. Petersburg,
(727) 822-3590.
46 TAMPA BAY MAGAZINE | MAY/JUNE 2021
Best Community Supporter –– Bill Edwards
For many years, Bill Edwards has helped the Tampa Bay area
to prosper through his efforts. He has worked on behalf of the
Republican National Convention, the Rowdies soccer team,
the Mahaffey Theater, the Sundial St. Pete shopping complex
and the Treasure Island Yacht Club. He even built the road
monument on Interstate 275 to welcome drivers to
St. Petersburg. He is a willing worker to aid worthy causes
and helps out wherever he can.
Best Community Theater
–– Francis Wilson Playhouse
This theater is totally operated by volunteers, and therefore
can offer very affordable ticket prices. It has been attracting
patrons for more than 80 years. Their productions are classic
and the quality of their performances is top notch. 302
Seminole St., Clearwater, (727) 446-1360.
Best Concert Venue –– Ruth Eckerd Hall
Ruth Eckerd Hall is another of our perennial winners, and
things are even better there with its expansion and renovation
that made the grand lobby six times larger and added two
more lanes to the entryway. Ruth Eckerd Hall is at the top of
the list for great entertainment. 1111 N. McMullen Booth Road,
Clearwater, (727) 791-7400.
Best Concierge Doctor –– Dr. Michael Zimmer
Dr. Michael Zimmer’s hassle-free medical care gives his
patients an ease of service that they appreciate. Zimmer
Concierge Medical Membership can be contacted at
(727) 502-2626, or by visiting zimmercm.com.
Best Cookies –– Kookie Krums
Kookie Krums offers several varieties of cookies, cupcakes
and brownies baked fresh daily, but the chocolate chip cookies
are our favorites. Buy them individually, by the dozen or in
artful arrangements as gifts. 513 Main St., Dunedin,
(727) 736-5786.
Best Covid Recovery
–– The Bistro in Tarpon Springs
When Dan Jenkin shut down his popular Tuscan Sun Italian
Bistro, we mourned. But he has now reopened it as The Bistro.
He redecorated and added more Mediterranean–style dishes
to the menu to make the experience even better.
17 Safford Ave., Tarpon Springs, (727) 935-5770.
Best Crab Legs –– Cooters Restaurant & Bar
Incredible is the best word to describe Cooters’ Crab Legs.
Combine that with the laid-back beach vibe and open central
bar and you will remember why you love Florida.
423 Poinsettia Ave., Clearwater Beach, (727) 462-2668.
Best Craft Museum –– FloridaCraft Art
FloridaCraft Art in St. Petersburg is far more than a museum,
and the creativity here is amazing. There is so much going on
at FloridaCraft Art to intrigue you that you are sure to find
something you must have. 501 Central Ave., St. Petersburg,
(727) 921-7391.
Best Creative Catering –– The Stuffed Mushroom
Betsy Byrd has spent years building the reputation of this
company, which caters corporate events, luncheons and
dinners. She also sells an array of upscale kitchen and
entertainment accessories. 825 Main St., Safety Harbor,
(727) 726-8686.
Best Community Supporter
–– Bill Edwards
GRAM