Best Casual Cafe Dining
–– Bobby’s Bistro & Wine Bar
An off-shoot of Bob Heilman’s Beachcomber restaurant next
door, this is a great spot to just kick back and relax. Their
indoor or covered alfresco seating make this an ideal place to
dine when you want to enjoy good food and wine in a casual
setting. 447 Mandalay Ave., Clearwater Beach,
(727) 446-WINE (9463).
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 Caribbean Cuisine
–– Rumba Island Bar & Grill
Everything served at Rumba’s from their Island Shrimp and
Rice Bowls to their Jerk Chicken Wings boasts island flavors.
Be sure to try one of their Caribbean-style drinks or bottled
beers and imported rums. Eat on the patio or enjoy the open
and airy indoor seating at two locations: 1800 Gulf to Bay
Blvd. at the corner of Keene Road, Clearwater, (727) 446-7027;
and 3687 Tampa Road, Oldsmar, (813) 475-5974.
Best Casual Italian Dining
–– Gigi’s Italian Restaurants
The Newberne Family has owned and operated these casual
trattorias for 48 years. Their homemade Old World Italian
favorites, from Baked Lasagna to Veal Saltimboca, and lowcarb
specials, including whole wheat pizza, are perennial
favorites. They have three locations. 105 Treasure Island
Causeway, Treasure Island, (727) 360-6905; 4399 Gulf Blvd.,
St. Pete Beach, (727) 363-3344; and 5901 Fourth St. N.,
St. Petersburg, (727) 526-2400.
Best Catch of the Day –– Salt Rock Grill
Diners at this legendary Baystar dining landmark can eat
grilled fish or steaks overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway.
It offers an extensive wine list, along with friendly hospitality.
This restaurant helped set this area’s culinary standards.
19325 Gulf Blvd., Indian Shores, (727) 593-7625.
Best Caterer
–– Palm Cafe in the Dunedin Fine Art Center
During the day, this cafe creates culinary experiences for those
at the center, but its caterers really shine when they go into the
community with gourmet offerings that are sure to please you
and your guests. 1143 Michigan Blvd., Dunedin,
(727) 298-3322.
Best Children’s Museum –– Great Explorations
This is the hands-on place where children can learn and play.
With programs including Parent’s Night Out and Terrific Tots,
plus exhibits, there is something for every child. You can even
reserve space for birthday parties. 1925 Fourth St. N.,
St. Petersburg, (727) 821-8992.
Best Casual Seafood
–– Old Bay Café & Dunedin Fish Market
Chef Walt Wickman has combined both a restaurant and
a market into one establishment at the Dunedin Marina
overlooking St. Joseph’s Sound. Sit outside and dine, purchase
fish to cook at home, or ask Walt to prepare it for you. The
seafood is fresh and locally caught. 51 Main St., Dunedin,
(727) 733-2542.
48 TAMPA BAY MAGAZINE | MAY/JUNE 2018
NORAA Best Supporters of the Arts -
Susana and Yann Weymouth
Best Chocolatier –– William Dean Chocolates
Whether you fancy Banana’s Foster or Lemongrass &
Coconut, you will want to share these sweets with those
you love. Bill Brown’s hand-painted chocolates are delicious
works of art. His award-winning flavors are as unique as the
packaging. 2790 W. Bay Drive, Belleair Bluffs, (727) 593-0656.
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,
and their wine list is impressive. The full bar is known for its
specialty cocktails. 447 Mandalay Ave. on
North Clearwater Beach, (727) 442-4144.
Best Community Improvement
–– Tampa International Airport
Airport CEO Joe Lopano continues to follow his vision to
make our airport the best in the world with its new interiors,
parking structure and transportation advancements.
Best Community Leaders
–– David and Catherine Straz
David Straz Jr. and his wife Catherine are always in the midst
of making positive things occur for our area. Their efforts are
not always visible, but they can always accomplish what they
set out to do.
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.
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.