Best Shopping - The Sundial in Downtown
St. Petersburg
MAY/JUNE 2016
| TAMPA BAY MAGAZINE 41
Best Philanthropists -
Jeff and Penny Vinik
These two individuals, through their Family
Foundation and the Lightning Foundation,
have done far more than donating $10
million to the community and then pledging
to donate another $10 million over the next
five years. They have made contributions in
a way that not only allows a wide variety of
organizations to fulfill their missions, but they
also recognize those individuals who donate
their life to making these organizations
successful. The Vinik’s Community Heroes
program of giving has probably affected 90
percent of the people living here; yet, the
most humble of the so-called unsung heroes
are the Viniks themselves. An inspiration to
all, they are a blessing to Tampa Bay.
Best Polynesian Dining -
The HONU
Named for the big green turtles that frequent the beaches
in Hawaii, this brand new restaurant in Dunedin has Chef
Kimberly Platt turning out the authentic flavors of the Islands.
Be sure to try her homemade Macadamia Nut Ice Cream. 516
Grant Street in Dunedin, (727) 333-7777
Best Statement of Integrity -
David A. Straz, Jr.
David resigned from the Board of Trustees of Tampa General
Hospital when other board members passed a motion to pay
members of the Board. What more needs to be said? “Actions
do speak louder than words.”
Best Tex-Mex - Carmelita’s Mexican Grill
and Cantina
With two locations, the Lopez Family has been one of the
leaders in Mexican dining in the Tampa Bay area for years.
Their combination platters are exceptionally popular. So, for
those great Tex-Mex flavors, this is the place to go. 1280 Main
Street, Dunedin, (727) 240-4946
Best Contributor to the Arts -
Susana Weymouth, Executive Director of
the Tampa Bay Businesses for Culture
and the Arts
If anyone believes that one person can’t make a difference,
they have never met Susana. Her enthusiasm and limitless
energy has breathed new life into this organization that is so
essential to the arts community.
Best Cajun Food -
Happy’s Bayou Bites
For an authentic taste of Louisiana, this quirky spot will
satisfy your cajun cravings. Po Boys, Gumbo and Red Beans
and Rice are only a sampling of their menu. Eat outside while
listening to live music and enjoy being “where happy friends
meet.” 431 Skinner Boulevard, Dunedin, (727) 240-1120
Best Dining Value - Jessi’s Restaurant
Family owned and operated, Jessi’s specializes in homemade
Italian cuisine. Great quality, a variety of menu options,
reasonable prices, and a warm and welcoming atmosphere
make this spot a smart dining choice for breakfast, lunch or
dinner. 8331 66th Street North, Pinellas Park, (727) 541-1200
Best Shopping - The Sundial in
Downtown St. Petersburg
With upscale fashion stores such as Florida Jean Company,
Tracy Negoshian and His, Happy Feet Plus and the fine dining
and food shopping at Locale, this relatively new destination is
attracting more fashionistas and foodies every day. Both valet
and self-parking options are available at this center which
is as convenient as it is beautiful. 153 2nd Avenue North,
St. Petersburg, (727) 800-3201
Best Burgers - BurgerMonger
This local chain with six locations was overwhelmingly
popular with our voters. From their top-quality Akaushi beef
and their challah buttered rolls to the freshly cut French fries
and real ice cream milkshakes, Jake Hickton and his energetic
team have set a new standard for hamburgers and salads. The
array of creative toppings may have helped tip the scale in
BurgerMonger’s favor; but in the end, top quality was still an
important factor in their overwhelming win. 2454 McMullen
Booth Rd., Clearwater, (727) 726-4001; 10412 N. Dale Mabry
Hwy., Tampa, (813) 968-6860; 1656 Bruce B. Downs Blvd.,
Wesley Chapel, (813) 991-4242; 903 E. Bloomingdale Ave.,
Brandon, (813) 684-7982; 3838 W. Neptune St., Tampa, (813)
254-0290; 1325 4th St., N., St. Petersburg, (727) 592-4206
Best New Restaurant -
Hog Island Fish Camp
With his Olde Bay Café on the Dunedin waterfront
overflowing with customers, Walt Wickman developed this
new venue for his innovative culinary inspirations. Southern
Fried Chicken or their namesake, Hogfish, have customers
declaring the Fish Camp a must for lunch or dinner. 900
Broadway (Alt. 19), Dunedin, (727) 736-1179