Best Italian Bistro
–– Tuscan Sun Italian Bistro
MAY/JUNE 2020 | TAMPA BAY MAGAZINE 61
Best Opera Season
–– 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.
Best Performing Arts Center
–– The Straz Center for the Performing Arts
Named in honor of the late 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 Philanthropists
–– Nancy and Steve Westphal
The generosity of this benevolent St. Petersburg couple
benefits cultural, charitable and social organizations
throughout the city.
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 Poke –– Aloha Ansley
Chef Ansley Spencer is a master of this poke style of Hawaiian
cuisine and also offers a variety of gluten-free and flavorful
vegetarian dishes. 1931 W. Bay Drive, Largo, (727) 953-3757.
Best Politician –– Jane Castor
Tampa Mayor Jane Castor is carrying on with the same
evenhandedness she used as Tampa’s Chief of Police. Jane
has continued to prove herself a wise leader who appreciates
the use of tact, along with good judgment at all times. How
fortunate we are to have her leadership.
Best Professional Theater Company
–– American Stage
For outstanding live theater with creative staging, talented
professional actors and innovative directors, American Stage
in St. Petersburg produces plays that are both thoughtprovoking
and entertaining. They also have comedy improv
and some edgy late-night offerings. Their annual outdoor
performances in Demens Landing Park are not to be missed.
163 Third St. N., St. Petersburg, (727) 823-PLAY (7529).
Best Raw Bar –– Sea Salt Restaurant
This stylish emporium is a testament to fine dining with its
artistic surroundings, first-class service, wonderful wines and
exceptional food. Dining here is always a treat. Located on the
second floor of St. Petersburg’s Sundial complex, 183 Second
Ave. N., St. Petersburg, (727) 873-7964.
Best Restaurant –– Cafe Ponte
Chef Chris Ponte prepares American Fusion Cuisine in a
modern and sophisticated setting. Two signature favorites
are Sea Bass Miso Marinated and Filet Mignon. Catering is
available and there is also a private dining room to celebrate
your special event. 13505 Icot Blvd., Clearwater,
(727) 538-5768.
Best Restaurant on the Pinellas Trail
–– Cafe Alfresco
For a refreshing light bite or a hearty entrée, this is a relaxing
place to pause for bicyclists, rollerbladers, joggers, shoppers
and visitors strolling the streets of downtown Dunedin. You’ll
feel like you’re dining in the open air on the beautiful, climatecontrolled
patio. Brunch on Saturday and Sunday offers
specialties such as French Toast á la Ritz and Crab Cakes
Benedict. 344 Main St., Dunedin, (727) 736-4299.
Best Rotisserie Chicken –– Pico Rojo
Pico Rojo prepares succulent chicken that is slow cooked and
seasoned with more than 10 spices in a rotisserie oven for a
tasty and crispy chicken that can’t be beat. This restaurant
uses all-natural, non-frozen chickens that are hormone and
preservative-free. Their vegetarian options are also first rate.
2475 N. McMullen Booth Road, Clearwater, (727) 474-3826.
Best Sandwiches
–– Marguerite’s Cafe and Catering
Marguerite has created an array of sandwiches to suit all
tastes, and she has a flair for creative pairings. She serves
breakfast and lunch and also offers catering. You can eat
indoors or outside on the patio. 405 Plaza Drive, Dunedin,
(727) 734-7040.
NORAA