Best Concert Venue –– Ruth Eckerd Hall
Best Auctioneer –– Jason Alpert
No one can squeeze as much out of a crowd for a good cause
as Jason. He is more than an auctioneer, also serving as a
consultant to advise organizations on how to raise funds and
how to organize their events, (954) 658-9465.
Best Authentic Italian Dining
–– Da Sesto Italiano Ristorante e Vino
Chef Sesto is known for his delicious renderings of classic
recipes such as Linguine al Pescatore and his homemade
ravioli. The relaxed, home-style service at Da Sesto’s is part of
the restaurant’s charms. 7201 66th St. N., Pinellas Park,
(727) 209-2695.
Best Bagels –– Dunedin Bagels and Deli
Owners Saul and Miriam prepare and serve their own New
York style bagels, specialty cream cheeses, salads, Old World
deli sandwiches and Cuban sandwiches in this small but
convenient location. Order to go or eat there. 716 Main St.
(State Road 580), Dunedin, (727) 734-1829.
Best Bakery –– The Scone Age Bakery and Cafe
This new spot in Dunedin has been open just over a year, but
it has already become a favorite bakery of many for numerous
types of breads and baked goods, including gluten-free. Chef
Shelley Jaffe does it all using healthy and natural ingredients.
332 Skinner Blvd., Dunedin, (727) 216-3248.
Best Beachside Gathering Spot –– Palm Pavilion
Gathering at the Palm Pavilion has been a local tradition since
1926 because of its great food, wonderful views of the Gulf of
Mexico and spectacular live music. This landmark restaurant
improves every year, blending the past with the present to
make everyone happy. 10 Bay Esplanade, Clearwater Beach,
(727) 446-2642.
Best Boat Ride –– Caladesi Island Ferry
Caladesi Island is a magical place with three miles of pristine
beach and a great café for refreshments that is only accessible
by boat. The 20-minute ride to Caladesi Island leaves from
Honeymoon Island and runs between the islands throughout
the day. It is one of the best entertainment buys in the area.
The ferry leaves from the west end of Dunedin Causeway,
State Road 586, (727) 734-5263.
MAY/JUNE 2020 | TAMPA BAY MAGAZINE 53
Best Airport Restaurant
–– The Hangar Restaurant and Flight Lounge
Located on the second floor of St. Petersburg’s Albert Whitted
Airport, The Hangar has a loyal following for breakfast, lunch
and dinner. In addition to being able to watch planes take off
and land, you can enjoy tasty offerings at reasonable prices
and hear regularly scheduled live jazz. 540 First St. S.E.,
St. Petersburg, (727) 823-7767.
Best Anclote River Dining –– Bayou Bistro
This new restaurant sits on the boat docks in Tarpon Springs
and is owned and operated by Brian and Heather Healey, who
have a large following from their days at the Tarpon Springs
Yacht Club. From light bites to delicious specialties of the
house, everyone can enjoy the casual charm of their gourmetstyle
fare. 607 Island Drive, Tarpon Springs, (727) 612-0073.
Best Architectural Landmark –– Henry B. Plant
Museum at the University of Tampa
Henry B. Plant opened the Tampa Bay Hotel in 1891, and
hosted such guests as Teddy Roosevelt, the queen of England
and Babe Ruth, who signed his first baseball contract in the
hotel’s grand dining room. This landmark building topped
with its iconic minarets is home to the University of Tampa’s
Plant Hall and to the Henry B. Plant Museum, which features
original furnishings and artifacts from the hotel and objects
that were collected by Mr. and Mrs. Plant on their worldwide
trips. 401 W. Kennedy Blvd., Tampa, (813) 254-1891.
Best Art Center Dining –– Palm Café
In the Dunedin Fine Art Center, this hidden gem keeps
visitors and hundreds of art students and teachers full of
wondrous dining treats. 1143 Michigan Blvd., Dunedin,
(727) 298-3322, ext. 237.
Best Art Classes –– Dunedin Fine Art Center
Drawing, painting, pottery, calligraphy, jewelry, pastels and
other arts are taught by experienced artists and educators at
this well-established family friendly institution that offers a
variety of programming, including a new food arts program
that is appealing to an entirely new group of students. The
staff is committed to making the center the premier place for
creative arts experiences. 1143 Michigan Blvd., Dunedin,
(727) 298-3322.