46 TAMPA BAY MAGAZINE
| MAY/JUNE 2016
Best Catch of the Day -
Salt Rock Grill
Best TV News Anchor -
Mark Wilson of WTVT Channel 13
He reminds us so much of his predecessor, another fellow
named Wilson. There is something very trustworthy about this
man, whose sincerity shines through as he keeps us informed
about what is happening throughout the world.
Best Outdoor Art Show - Art Harvest
This annual two-day juried show and sale draws hundreds
of artists from all across the country to Dunedin, next to the
Dunedin Fine Art Center, where thousands come to buy
beautiful and creative pieces priced directly by the artists.
Best Massage Therapist - Deborah Karlan
This woman has magic hands to match her encyclopedic
knowledge of the body. An incredible healer, she can relieve
whatever aches or pains you may have. Her Wellness From
Within office is at 2158 Drew Street in Clearwater.
(727) 641-8979
Best Gluten-Free Dining -
Currents in Tarpon Springs
This restaurant features a multitude of avant-garde gluten-free
options that make dining here a pleasure for anyone who is
concerned about food prepared with ingredients containing
gluten. There is no need to give up flavor when dining at
Currents. 200 E. Tarpon Avenue, Tarpon Springs, (727) 940-5377
Best Opera Company - Opera Tampa
Based at the Straz Center for the Performing Arts in Tampa,
Opera Tampa produces first-quality performances with all the
grandeur one would expect, as well as special, unique concerts
that have a broad appeal. Maestro Daniel Lipton breathes new
energy into every performance. For tickets to the Florida Opera
Festival, call (813) 229-STAR (7827)
Best Cultural Institution -
The Florida Orchestra
The musicians’ enthusiasm can be felt both on and off the stage,
as the orchestra has developed outstanding programs that
broaden their appeal. Their programming and exuberant new
conductor, Michael Francis, fill the venues where they perform.
To order tickets, call (813) 286-2403 or (800) 662-7286
Best Caribbean Cuisine -
Rumba Island Bar & Grill
Specializing in authentic flavors of the islands, everything
served at Rumba’s, from their Runaway Bay Crab Cakes to
their Jerk Chicken Wings, will make you yearn for one of their
Caribbean-style drinks. Patrons admit to being addicted to
Mama Maria’s Muffins that come with each delicious meal. Eat
on the patio or enjoy the open and airy indoor seating. 1800
Gulf to Bay Boulevard at the corner of Keene Road, Clearwater,
(727) 446-7027; and 3687 Tampa Road, Oldsmar, (813) 475-5974
Best Wieners - Hot Dogs on Main
Susan and Nick serve all types of hot dogs, from classics to tofu,
but it is their creative toppings that earned them the nickname
of “gourmet fun on a bun.” Try a Dixie Dog topped with chili
and coleslaw or the 3” Puppy Dog Sliders. Whatever you
choose, you’ll enjoy it. 505 Main Street, Dunedin, (727) 408-5103
Best Local Dining Club -
The Tampa Bay Food & Wine Society
Local gourmands and wine aficionados enjoy drinking and
dining with this exclusive, membership-only club, which
holds its dinners, wine seminars and other events throughout
the Tampa Bay area. They dine at the area’s finest restaurants,
enjoying multi-course meals that are created exclusively
for them, with each course paired with an interesting wine.
(727) 791-4800
Best Beachside Gathering Spot -
The Palm Pavilion
Since 1926, gathering at the Palm Pavilion has been a local
tradition with its great food, wonderful views of the Gulf of
Mexico and spectacular live music. This landmark gets better
every year, as it blends the past with the best of the present.
10 Bay Esplanade, Clearwater Beach, (727) 446-2642
Best Music Festival - Clearwater
Jazz Holiday
Recognized as one of the best jazz concerts in the country, this
annual festival draws internationally-known musicians as well
as local stars, who perform for thousands of people each day
of the four-day event in downtown Clearwater’s Coachman
Park. The City of Clearwater, a multitude of volunteers, plus
corporate and private individual donations help to make this
event possible. (727) 461-5200
Best Spa Resort -
Safety Harbor Resort & Spa
Offering innovative packages that are great values, the 50,000
square foot remodeled spa offers everything from wellness
treatments to hot stone massages. Located on the waters of
Tampa Bay, this resort is also a perfect setting for weddings
or any other special event. Many do not realize that the
restaurant, lounge and spa are open to the public. 105 North
Bayshore Drive, Safety Harbor, (727) 726-1161