BEST 2017
MAY/JUNE 2017 | TAMPA BAY MAGAZINE 53
OF
Best Cultural Programs ––
City of Tarpon Springs
Tarpon Arts oversees the Tarpon Springs Cultural Center that
has changing exhibits, an 83-seat theater and a gift shop, along
with the 300-seat Performing Arts Center on Pine Street that
is inside the current City Hall, which was built as a school
in 1925. Tarpon Arts also operates and organizes a series of
cultural programs at the city’s Heritage Museum on Beekman
Lane that offers history exhibits and at the Safford House
Museum on Parkin Court. (727) 942-5605.
Best Museum Dining –– Café Gala
Whether you’re exploring the Dalí Museum or walking
around downtown St. Petersburg, stop into Café Gala for a
light Spanish meal. You don’t need a museum ticket to enjoy
the café. 1 Dalí Blvd., St. Petersburg, (727) 623-4725.
Best Spa Resort ––
Safety Harbor Resort & Spa
The 50,000-square-foot remodeled spa in Safety Harbor offers
everything from wellness treatments to hot stone massages.
Located on the waters of Tampa Bay, this resort recently
celebrated 90 years of operation and is a perfect setting for
weddings and special events. The restaurant, lounge and spa
are open to the public. 105 N. Bayshore Drive, Safety Harbor,
(727) 726-1161.
Best Music Festival ––
Clearwater Jazz Holiday
Recognized as one of the best jazz festivals in the country, this
annual event draws internationally known musicians, as well
as local stars, who perform for thousands of people each day
at the four-day event in downtown Clearwater’s Coachman
Park. (727) 461-5200.
Best Place for Orthopedics ––
Happy Feet Plus
For over 30 years, Happy Feet Plus has been offering healthy,
stylish footwear. With more than 100 styles and 10 locations in
the Tampa Bay area, you are sure to find the perfect fit. Each
store has free digital foot scanners and a staff to assist you in
finding a comfortable fit that will help eliminate and prevent
foot, knee, hip and back pain. (800) 336-6657.
Best Fine Contemporary Cuisine ––
Parkshore Grill
Chef Tyson Grant takes contemporary American cuisine to
new levels. His beef Wellington and the Pan Fried Grouper
Cakes are fine examples of his signature style. Owner Steve
Westphal has created a sophisticated establishment with both
indoor and outdoor seating, valet parking and a full bar.
300 Beach Drive N.E., St. Petersburg, (727) 896-WINE (9463).
Best Menswear ––
Greiner’s Fine Men’s Clothing
Since 1981, this store has offered high quality men’s clothing
and accessories together with expert service and assistance
to help you with your wardrobe. They offer individual
appointments, expert alterations and can custom make or
special order what you want to meet your personal style.
117 E. Whiting St., Tampa, (813) 226-3207.
Best Cajun Food –– Happy’s Bayou Bites
Owners Happy and Mark serve New Orleans-style food on
picnic tables out of their food trailer with a Cracker-style
facade. Po’ Boys, gumbo and muffaletta are a few of their
delicious dishes. 431 Skinner Blvd., Dunedin, (727) 240-1102.
Best Performing Arts Center ––
The Straz Center for the Performing Arts
Named in honor of David A. Straz Jr. of Tampa, this venue
offers five theaters, arts education, dining and catering. Each
theater offers diverse events that are of interest to almost
everyone. 1010 N. W.C. MacInnes Place, Tampa,
(813) 229-STAR (7827).
Best Wieners –– Hot Dogs on Main
Chef Susan and Nick serve all types of hot dogs from
classics to tofu, but it is their creative toppings that have
earned them the nickname of “gourmet fun on a bun.”
505 Main St., Dunedin, (727) 408-5103.
Best Children’s Museum ––
Great Explorations
This is the hands-on place where children can learn and play.
With 13 programs, including Parent’s Night Out and Terrific
Tots, plus 16 exhibits, including BellaBrava Pizza Kitchen,
Pet Vet and Engine Company 15 Fire House, there is
something for every child. 1925 Fourth St. N., St. Petersburg,
(727) 821-8992.
Best Mom and Pop Dining ––
Sages West Bay Bistro
Patty and Mike Shade have been in business for 17 years,
cooking homestyle Italian food and baking fresh bread. The
portions are generous and the atmosphere is casual. They
have a party room for events and offer catering.
883 W. Bay Drive, Largo, (727) 585-6600.
Best Thai Restaurant –– Thai Spice
Owner Pannee Farooque makes delicious and beautifully
plated presentations. Pad Thai, Stir Fry and Curry are some of
the authentic Thai dishes you can enjoy, all reasonably priced
and served by friendly staff. 2475 N. McMullen Booth Road at
Enterprise, Clearwater, (727) 791-7050.