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Best Casual Italian Dining -
Gigi’s Italian Restaurants
The Newberne Family has owned and operated these casual
trattorias for 47 years. Old-world Italian favorites, from Baked
Lasagna to Veal Saltimboca, and low-carb specials, including
whole wheat pizza, are perennial favorites. They have three
locations. 105 Treasure Island Causeway, Treasure Island,
(727) 360-6905; 4399 Gulf Boulevard, St. Pete Beach,
(727) 363-3344; and 5901 4th Street North, St. Petersburg,
(727) 562-2400
Best History Museum -
Dunedin Historical Museum
The Dunedin Historical Society’s ever-changing displays
and special events in the museum’s home, a former train
station, are always interesting and inspiring. 349 Main Street,
Dunedin, (727) 736-1176
Best Lunch to Go -
The Stuffed Mushroom
This gem is best known for its catering, as well as its
lunches to go that are both creative and delicious and can be
customized to fit your needs. We suggest you call ahead.
825 Main Street, Safety Harbor, (727) 726-8686
Best Casual Creative Cuisine -
Marlin Darlin Grill
Innovative ideas here, like Crab Cake Corn Dogs, keep
customers coming back to see what is new. They also serve
tasty traditional entrées, such as lobster and steaks. The
friendly atmosphere makes this restaurant seem like a private
club, where people seem to know each other. 2819 West Bay
Drive, Belleair Bluffs, (727) 584-1700
Best Chocolatier -
William Dean Chocolates
Bill Brown’s exquisite handcrafted, hand-painted chocolates
are delicious works of art. The award-winning flavors are
as unique as the packaging. So, whether you fancy Mexican
Mango or Apple Pie, you will want to share these sweets with
those you love. 2790 West Bay Drive, Belleair Bluffs,
(727) 593-0656
Best Pasta -
Da Sesto Italiano Ristorante e Vino
Sesto, the owner of Da Sesto, is a genius with pasta. His
delicious authentic recipes, including Linguine al Pescatore and
Ravioli are served in a relaxed, home-style atmosphere, along
with a wide selection of Italian wines. 7199 66th Street North,
Pinellas Park, (727) 209-2695
Best Dining Any Time of Day -
Clear Sky Beachside Cafe
This friendly restaurant opens at seven o’clock every
morning and doesn’t stop serving until one o’clock
the next morning. The food is great, and they have
live entertainment at this popular hot spot.
490 Mandalay Avenue, Clearwater Beach,
(727) 442-3684
Best Business Lunch -
Bascom’s Chop House
With the ambience of an exclusive private club,
this American Chop House features top-of-the-line
Midwestern grain-fed steer that is aged a minimum
of 28 days. Their he-man-sized portions, excellent
service and extensive wine selections help to make
your dining experience here a pleasure.
3665 Ulmerton Road, Clearwater, (727) 573-3363
Best Culinary Tasting -
The Ryan Wells Foundation’s
“Evening With the Chefs”
This tasting benefit has Pinellas County’s finest, elite
chefs working with high school culinary students to
deliver signature appetizers, entrées and desserts.
The Foundation awards culinary scholarships and
helps to support school programs, including the
“Ryan Wells Kitchen” at the Jacobson Culinary Arts
Academy in Tarpon Springs.
Best Small Concert Space -
The Capitol Theatre
MAY/JUNE 2015 TAMPA BAY MAGAZINE 53