Best Auctioneer
–– Jason Alpert
MAY/JUNE 2020 | TAMPA BAY MAGAZINE 63
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.
Best Tex Mex
–– Marina Cantina Tequila Bar and Grille
Right in the heart of Clearwater Beach, this Baystar restaurant
has fabulous views and phenomenal Mexican fare at bargain
prices. Try the iron pan cornbread and the Beef Barbacoa
Quesadillas with a house margarita or some sangria. This is
a great gathering spot for all. 25 Causeway Blvd., Clearwater
Beach, (727) 443-1750.
Best Thai Restaurant –– Thai Spice
Owner Pannee Farooque makes delicious and beautifully
plated presentations. Pad Thai, Stir Fry and Curry are some
of the authentic Thai dishes you can enjoy, all reasonably
priced and served by Pannee and her friendly staff. 2475 N.
McMullen Booth Road at Enterprise, Clearwater,
(727) 791-7050.
Best Theater Dining –– Maestro’s Restaurants
Maestro’s three distinctly different dinner offerings at the
David A. Straz Jr. Center for the Performing Arts allow
patrons to enjoy creative presentations and inventive menus
before the theater. They also cater in their own facility, or at
the venue of your choice. 1010 N. W.C. MacInnes Place at the
Straz Center, Tampa, (813) 229-STAR (7827).
Best Theatrical Productions –– freeFall Theatre
By presenting a range of classical and new works that are
bold, daring and diverse, this St. Petersburg theater group
continuously draws rave reviews. Creative staging and
multitalented performers help make their productions
memorable. 6099 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, (727) 498-5205.
Best Traditional Bistro –– Sages West Bay Bistro
Patty Shade has been in business for more than 17 years,
cooking homestyle Italian food and baking fresh bread. The
portions are generous and the atmosphere is casual. They
have a party room for events and offer catering. 883 W. Bay
Drive, Largo, (727) 585-6600.
Best TV News Anchor
–– Mark Wilson of WTVT-Channel 13
Son of longtime broadcaster John Wilson, Mark Wilson keeps
us informed about what is happening throughout the world.
In addition to his Fox Broadcasting position, he is an avid rock
guitarist who performs with his brothers for benefit concerts
and community events.
Best Urban Living –– Downtown St. Petersburg
Upscale restaurants and trendy boutiques join the bevy
of first-rate museums in downtown St. Petersburg. The
overnight success has taken 20 years, but St. Petersburg is
where the action is.
Best Water Attraction –– The Florida Aquarium
The aquarium’s “Heart of the Sea” exhibit in its reimagined
Waves of Wonder Gallery is a 100,000-gallon habitat with
more than 400 animals, including bonnethead sharks,
southern stingrays, endangered sea turtles and more. Its
“Moon Bay” exhibit has moon jellies in a 2,000-gallon habitat.
701 Channelside Drive, Tampa, (813) 273-4000.
Best Waterfront Restaurant
–– Bon Appétit Restaurant
Waterfront dining with fabulous views overlooking St.
Joseph’s Sound makes this a memorable place to dine. This
landmark Dunedin restaurant is one of the culinary legends
of the area and is consistently ranked as one of the best Tampa
Bay restaurants by those who appreciate classic preparations
of fine food and excellent service. For alfresco dining, the
outside Terrace Café and their outdoor bar offer the same
great menu as the restaurant. 148 Marina Plaza, Dunedin,
(727) 733-2151.
Best Wedding Venue
–– Historic Andrews Memorial Chapel
This church, previously in downtown Dunedin, is now
located next to Hammock Park. It is quaint, beautiful and
inexpensive to rent, since it is owned and operated by the
Dunedin Historical Society. They even provide a wedding
planner to help you with your special day. 1899 San Mateo
Drive, Dunedin, (727) 271-9673.
Best Western Art Museum
–– The James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art
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 Wieners –– Hot Dogs on Main
Chef Susan and Nick serve all types of hot dogs from classics
to tofu, but it is their creative toppings that have earned them
the nickname of “gourmet fun on a bun.” Try a Dixie Dog
topped with chili and coleslaw. Whatever you choose, you’re
sure to enjoy it. 505 Main St., Dunedin, (727) 408-5103. 9