Best Art Classes -
Dunedin Fine Art Center
54 TAMPA BAY MAGAZINE | MAY/JUNE 2019
Best Special Events Venue
–– The Historic Fort Harrison
This beautifully restored hotel has served as a hub for the
community since the 1920s. Its exquisite ballrooms and firstclass
food service make it ideal for any type of special event.
210 S. Fort Harrison Ave., Clearwater, (727) 467-5500.
Best Sports Pub
–– Fairway Pizza & Sports Page Pub
Since 1982, owners Kathie and Steve Jefferis have been famous
for their delicious pizza, Greek salads and more that can be
eaten indoors, or outside on their dog-friendly patio. The
deck is heated during the winter months. You’ll enjoy drinks
from their two bars while listening to live entertainment or
watching sports on one of their many television sets that have
all the sports packages. They take phone orders and offer
delivery. 2901 Alternate U.S. Highway 19 N., Palm Harbor,
(727) 772-7060.
Best Steakhouse –– Bascom’s Chop House
With its ambience of an exclusive private club, this American
steakhouse features top-of-the-line Angus grain-fed steer
that is aged a minimum of 28 days. Generous portions,
excellent service and extensive wine selections help to make
your dining experience a pleasure. 3665 Ulmerton Road,
Clearwater, (727) 573-3363.
Best Sunday Brunch –– Island Way Grill
The lavish displays of delicious cuisine of this Baystar
restaurant make their extensive Sunday Buffet offerings
legendary. Serving everything from fresh omelets and waffles
to sushi, this is a never-ending feast. The beautiful harbor
views, the touch of Asian fusion and Pacific Rim style cuisine
keep Island Way Grill busy every day of the year. 20 Island
Way on Island Estates, Clearwater Beach, (727) 461-6617.
Best Sushi –– Ocean Blue Asian Fusion
Nhan Nguyen has taken over the location that was once
Charlie’s Kaiko. In addition to incredible sushi, they also serve
authentic dishes from the hibachi grill.
2475 N. McMullen Booth Road, Clearwater, (727) 791-6640.
Best Tavern –– Salt Rock Tavern
Frank Chivas created this modern tavern in Oldsmar. The
menu is extensive and offers a variety of unique dishes.
There are more than 25 craft brews available and a variety of
handmade cocktails. Their Sunday buffet brunch is a bargain
and includes two mimosas, screwdrivers or Bloody Mary’s.
3689 Tampa Road, Oldsmar, (813) 336-4977.
Best Tearoom –– The White Heron Tea & Gifts
Downtown New Port Richey’s tearoom has regularly
scheduled tea experiences in its charming parlor, serving
relaxing and intimate afternoon tea service. 6228 Grand Blvd.,
New Port Richey, (727) 203-3504.
KEN HANNON
Best Southern-Style Cooking
–– Salt Cracker Fish Camp
This Southern dockside cooking spot right off the roundabout
on Clearwater Beach at the Marina has an outside deck and
bar to let you take in the sun as you are having fun. There is
Happy Hour all day long. From 3 p.m. to 5 p.m., they have $5
specials that range from a cheeseburger to one-half pound of
steamed mussels. 25 Causeway Blvd., Clearwater Beach,
(727) 442-6910.
Best Spa –– 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 has more than
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 Spanish Restaurant
–– Columbia Restaurants
Five generations of the Gonzmart family have created a
Columbia Restaurant dynasty for over 110 years, with seven
Florida locations offering the very best Spanish cuisine.
Among them is the original Columbia in Ybor City at 2117
E. Seventh Ave., Tampa, (813) 248-4961. They feature a live
flamenco dance show Monday through Saturday. On Sand
Key, there is a Columbia at 1241 Gulf Blvd., (727) 596-8400,
where guests enjoy waterfront views of the Intracoastal
Waterway. The Columbia in Sarasota is located at
411 St. Armands Circle, (941) 388-3987.