MAY/JUNE 2020 | TAMPA BAY MAGAZINE 55
Best Chinese Cuisine
–– Ha Long Bay
All the traditional Chinese cuisine that has become such a
staple in the United States is served here, along with a variety
of Vietnamese dishes. The values here cannot be beat.
2192 Main St., Dunedin, (727) 734-3998.
Best Chocolatier –– William Dean Chocolates
Whether you fancy Banana’s Foster or Lemongrass & Coconut
fillings, you will want to share these chocolate 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.
Their wine list is impressive, and the full bar is known for its
specialty cocktails. 447 Mandalay Ave. on North Clearwater
Beach, (727) 442-4144.
Best Classic Italian Cuisine –– Da Pollani’s
This family has brought their Italian heritage to Largo, where
they serve the classic dishes of their homeland. It is a family
affair that ensures guests the best in service and taste.
13688 Walsingham Road, Largo, (727) 239-7855.
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 Musical Theater
–– Eight O’Clock Theatre
This group of volunteers continuously presents outstanding
Broadway musicals at the Central Park Performing Arts
Center in Largo. Once you have seen one of their shows,
you will want to purchase tickets for the entire season to see
everything they do. 105 Central Park Drive, Largo,
(727) 587-6793.
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.
Best Concert Venue
–– Ruth Eckerd Hall
Ruth Eckerd Hall is another of our perennial winners, and
things are even better there with its expansion and renovation
that made the grand lobby six times larger and added two
more lanes to the entryway. Ruth Eckerd Hall is at the top of
the list for great entertainment. 1111 N. McMullen Booth Road,
Clearwater, (727) 791-7400.
Best Cookies –– Kookie Krums
Kookie Krums offers several varieties of cookies, cupcakes
and brownies baked fresh daily, but the chocolate chip cookies
are our favorites. Buy them individually, by the dozen or in
artful arrangements as gifts. 513 Main St., Dunedin,
(727) 736-5786.
Best Crab Legs –– Cooters Restaurant & Bar
Incredible is the best word to describe Cooters’ Crab Legs.
Combine that with the laid-back beach vibe and open central
bar and you will remember why you love Florida.
423 Poinsettia Ave., Clearwater Beach, (727) 462-2668.
Best Craft Museum –– FloridaCraft Art
FloridaCraft Art in St. Petersburg is far more than a museum,
and the creativity here is amazing. There is so much going on
at FloridaCraft Art to intrigue you that you are sure to find
something you must have. 501 Central Ave., St. Petersburg,
(727) 921-7391.
Best Creative Catering –– The Stuffed Mushroom
Betsy Byrd has spent years building the reputation of this
company, which caters corporate events, luncheons and
dinners. She also sells an array of upscale kitchen and
entertainment accessories. 825 Main St., Safety Harbor,
(727) 726-8686.
Best Steakhouse
–– Bascom’s Chop House