Best New Development –– Belleview Place
Located two miles south of downtown Clearwater in the
picturesque spot where railroad magnate Henry Plant built
the historic Belleview Biltmore Hotel, this resort-style gated
JMC community is newly constructed. The hotel reopened as
the Belleview Inn in 2018 and is used as a gathering place for
the development’s mid-rise residences and carriage homes.
275 Belleview Blvd., Belleair, (727) 469-7070.
Best New Museum –– The James Museum
This architectural wonder has a thrilling collection of
wildlife and Western art that is awe-inspiring. It adds a new
dimension to the St. Petersburg art scene. 150 Central Ave.,
St. Petersburg, (727) 892-4200.
Best New Restaurant
–– Seaweed Steaks, Seafood & Sushi
Complete with a wine cellar, outdoor patio and full tiki bar,
this contemporary steak and seafood experience’s selections
are prepared in either the main kitchen, sushi or raw bar.
There are signature cocktails and an eclectic menu with an
Asian flair. 2819 West Bay Drive, Belleair Bluffs,
(727) 584-1700.
Best Opera Company –– Opera Tampa
Based at the Straz Center for the Performing Arts in Tampa,
Opera Tampa produces first-quality performances with the
grandeur one would expect as well as special concerts that
have a broad appeal. 1010 N. W.C. MacInnes Place, Tampa,
(813) 229-STAR (7827).
Best Opera House –– Sarasota Opera
The renovation of this magnificent performance hall keeps it
at the top of the list for opera with world-class performances,
concerts, lectures and events. 61 N. Pineapple Ave., Sarasota,
(941) 328-1300.
52 TAMPA BAY MAGAZINE | MAY/JUNE 2019
Best Outdoor Art Show –– Art Harvest
This annual two-day juried show and sale in early November
draws artists from across the country to Highlander Park in
Dunedin, next to the Dunedin Fine Art Center. For more than
50 years, thousands have bought beautiful and creative pieces
from the more than 200 artists that participate each year.
The event is sponsored by the Junior League of Clearwater-
Dunedin, (727) 738-5523.
Best Outdoor Dining
–– The Terrace Café at Bon Appétit
The menu is the same here as it is inside Bon Appétit
Restaurant. The only difference is that the seating at The
Terrace Café is outside undercover with open views of
St. Joseph Sound. There is also an adjacent outdoor bar that
serves signature drinks and more. 148 Marina Plaza, Dunedin,
(727) 733-2151.
Best Pasco Attraction –– Richey Suncoast Theatre
This historic former movie theater in New Port Richey now
used as a playhouse was built in 1925 and later restored. From
regular productions to black box theater performances, this is
a place for enthusiastic community theater acting.
6237 Grand Blvd., New Port Richey, (727) 842-6777.
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. The breadth of what the Straz offers made it an easy
winner in this category. 1010 N. W.C. MacInnes Place, Tampa,
(813) 229-STAR (7827).
Best Personal Care –– Foggiare Wellness Center
From skin rejuvenation and body sculpting to weight loss and
pain relief, they do it all here. They can make a personal plan
to help you achieve your goals. 1920 West Bay Drive, Largo,
(727) 239-0580.
Best Personal Watercraft –– Jack’s Kayaks
Whether you need paddles, a life vest, a kayak, or
paddleboard, Jack’s Kayaks is the place for any of your
personal watercraft needs. 1764 Missouri Ave. N., Largo,
(727) 452-4684.
Best Philanthropists
–– Nancy and David Bilheimer
This Dunedin couple is making cultural contributions that
will have lasting effects on two of our best organizations, the
Dunedin Fine Art Center and Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater,
in addition to many other worthy causes. They are people of
vision and give wisely.
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 Performing Arts Center -
Straz Center