Best Of 2017

Best You Already Knew This Was the Best

Where do I even begin with the culinary majesty that is VIP’s Mexican pizza? Two flour tortillas — both 12 inches — are layered like lasagna with refried beans and cheese, salsa, black olives, jalapeños and cheese topping each of them, then cooked till the kitchen achieves the most perfect, delightful crisp. And don’t get me started on the pie’s glorious crunchy sound (that sound!). You can add proteins like shredded beef, chicken and chorizo if you’re asking, “Where’s the beef?” But it’s delicious as is — and a steal of a meal for about $8. I could eat this badass hybrid from the longtime Treasure Island gem every day. Maybe I’ll try. —Meaghan Habuda

Food & Drink

Food & Drink


Best All-Around Restaurant
Todd Bates


  • Runner Up: Ulele
  • Runner Up: Datz
Best Bagels
Pixabay


  • Runner Up: Einstein Bros. Bagels
  • Runner Up: Clearwater Bagels
Best Bakery (Bread)
Pixabay


  • Runner Up: La Segunda Central Bakery
  • Runner Up: Alessi Bakery
Best Bakery (Pastries)
Pixabay
Best Bakery (Pastries)
mazzaro


  • Runner Up: Alessi Bakery
  • Runner Up: Frida's Cafe & Bakery
Best Banh Mi
freshcrackedpepper via Wikimedia Commons


  • Runner Up: Bamboozle Cafe
  • Runner Up: Saigon Deli
Best Bar Crawl
Brew Bus


  • Runner Up: Bar Crawl Nation (St. Pete)
  • Runner Up: Tampa Noles Pub Crawl
Best Bar Food
Courtesy of Dunedin Brewery


  • Runner Up: Engine No. 9
  • Runner Up: Mermaid Tavern