Tampa Bay’s best live music happening October 3-10
Including Tom G, Xiu Xiu, hurricane benefits and more.
Tampa’s Magnanimous Brewing celebrates fourth anniversary with four days of special beer, food and music
The festivities kick off Thursday and include a heavy-metal Saturday concert.
Tampa Legals 10/3/24
Tampa Legals Legals Notice of Public Sale Notice is hereby given that the undersigned will sell, to satisfy lien of the owner, at public sale by competitive bidding on www.storagetreasures.com ending on October 11th, 2024 at 11:00 am for units located at: Compass Self Storage 2291 S. Frontage Rd, Plant City, Florida 33563 Purchases must be made with cash…
Xiu Xiu’s Monday concert is exactly what Tampa Bay needs right now
The band’s new album ’13” Frank Beltrame Italian Stiletto with Bison Horn Grips’ is cathartic as hell.
Trombone Shorty plays rare non-festival show at Tampa Hard Rock
He’s there this weekend.
Profits from Tampa concert featuring Chilean punk band Deuforia will go towards Hurricane Helene relief
Promoter Chewy Hemphill will also raffle tickets to upcoming shows.
The Black Crowes’ intimate theater show finally comes to St. Petersburg
Who needs Aerosmith anyway?
Australian ‘fairy-trap’ star Zheani plays Tampa this weekend
‘Sex Never Dies,’ could fit into a playlist at Ybor City’s Castle nightclub
WMNF Tampa’s annual Tom Petty tribute returns this weekend
He would have been 74 years old this month.
WWE superstar Chris Jericho plays hometown Fozzy concert in Tampa
He’s at Orpheum this weekend.
Christian country songwriter Anne Wilson plays Tampa this weekend
She’s probably gonna win some Dove awards before the gig, too.
A Hundred Drums headlines St. Pete’s two-day Odyssey Music Festival
The festival brings together up-and-coming names in EDM.
Before Ybor City gig, YouTube musician CG5 reveals the best gig he ever saw
A night with AJR can change your showmanship.
Morgan Wallen’s rescheduled Tampa stadium show is on Friday
Ol’ boy caught something in Tampa last summer.
The Marley Brothers’ first tour in 20 years comes to Tampa this weekend
Bob’s 85th birthday is in February.
Lyle Lovett and his Large Band are back in Clearwater this weekend
The 66-year-old is at Ruth Eckerd Hall on Friday.
El Sistema-inspired Sunstate Orchestral Program plays free Hispanic Heritage concert in Tampa
UPDATE: Due to possible weather, this concert has moved inside, and is still free-to-attend.
There’s a GoFundMe to help beloved community hub Indian Shores Coffee reopen after Hurricane Helene
The shop at 19221 Gulf Blvd. is much more than another place to get coffee.
Pinellas Park artist John Gascot reclaims patriotism in ‘Red, White, & Free’ show this weekend
He started painting politics with his ‘Baby Dick Devil’ portrait of Trump.
Florida may have to pay $750K in legal fees over DeSantis’ ‘Stop Woke Act’
The state faces an Oct. 28 deadline to respond to the request.
Ybor CIty’s Martí-Maceo club hosts dominoes fundraiser in November
With special sections for novices, too.
Tampa Bay’s annual ‘Crack Up Cancer’ comedy show happens this weekend
The 17th iteration of the benefit is in St. Petersburg.
Florida’s voter registration deadline is on October 7
On the line are abortion rights, recreational weed, plus the fates of congresspeople, state attorneys, judges, school board runoffs, taxes and more
Is Bucs cornerback Zyon McCollum a budding star?
McCollum has done his thing through the first quarter of the season.
‘We’re utilizing our resources’: Florida Gov. DeSantis enlists prison labor to help with Hurricane Helene debris
“We’ve got low-security inmates that are out there who do normal prison labor…”
Over 16,000 properties in Pinellas County are uninhabitable following Hurricane Helene
“This is weeks, not days, and it’s going to require the efforts of so many in order to help our residents regain their life.”
Judge sides with EPA in lawsuit over record Florida manatee deaths
The lawsuit came after a record 1,100 manatees died in 2021 in Florida.
Port Tampa Bay longshoremen join national strike, calling for higher wages and automation protections
President Joe Biden pointed to Hurricane Helene relief efforts in calling for the union and the maritime alliance to reach an agreement.
Judge refuses to block Florida’s ‘misinformation’ website on abortion amendment
Issues in the lawsuit included statements on the website such as, “Current Florida Law Protects Women, Amendment 4 Threatens Women’s Safety.”
St. Pete Super Greek Festival offers free admission with hurricane relief donation
The three-day festival kicks off Friday.
Ybor City breweries are collecting Hurricane Helene relief supplies this weekend
Sky Puppy and BarrieHaus will deliver to Treasure Island, Gulfport and Snell Island next week.
Nashville’s Hello In There Foundation will match donations to Gulfport hurricane relief efforts
Collections run through Tuesday Oct. 8.
St. Pete Free Clinic is offering free groceries for victims of Hurricane Helene
It’s not the only place offering food in Pinellas.
Entrevista: Antes de regresar a Ybor City, la estrella pop Cubana Cimafunk habla sobre su nuevo álbum y más
El domingo tocará en Crowbar.
Interview: Before return to Ybor CIty, Cuban pop star Cimafunk talks new album and more
Erik Alejandro Iglesias Rodríguez, known as Cimafunk, has a moniker that refers to the Cimarron(es), who were runaway slaves who formed self-sufficient communities in Cuba during the colonial era. Tampa had the pleasure of seeing Cimafunk’s excellent show in 2022 he supported his second album El Alimento, which was Nominated for a Best Latin Rock…
Mary Gauthier brings ‘Drag Queens in Limousines’ anniversary tour to Tampa Bay this winter
Don’t tell the governor.
As mail ballots go out, Florida Democrats get more money from DNC
The Democratic National Committee is making a $400,000 contribution to the state party.
Tampa, St. Pete, both offering free laundry service in the wake of Hurricane Helene
Having clean clothes and linens is one of the most overlooked parts of recovering from a disaster.
City of Tampa offering free food, restrooms, showers, ice and laundry at two locations
It’s not the only place in Tampa where folks can get free food.
Tampa Bay’s Sen. Darryl Rouson prepares to fight for the arts in Tallahassee
Rouson called a Pinellas County Legislative Delegation Meeting to hear from the local arts community.
St. Pete’s Little Bayou, mangroves, and the ‘Howdy Doody’ roots of our current catastrophe
Amidst our hubris and our hurt, we overlook the fundamental truth that we have engineered these conditions.
Oracle of Ybor: Sometimes, Tarot gives us advice we didn’t ask for
For some friendships that drifted apart, absolutely send a text or an email to catch up.
Tampa’s Straz Center kicks off new Broadway season with ‘The Boy Who Loved Batman’ premiere this week
Just in time for ‘Joker: Folie à Deux,’ too.
Mema’s Alaskan Tacos officially reopens in Ybor City on Thursday
All the favorites will be on the menu.
The Bucs were absolutely cooking
Fire those cannons.
Tampa restaurants are distributing free, fresh meals for anyone displaced by Hurricane Helene
The meals will be doled out at various locations Monday-Friday, Sept. 30-Oct. 4.
‘It’s just another repeat’: Repeated storms leave residents of Perry struggling to recover
The residents of a usually forgotten part of Florida have found themselves in a familiar pattern: Trying to rebuild their lives after yet another devastating storm. Hurricane Helene, responsible for multiple deaths in the state and plunging more than 1 million people into darkness, made landfall late Thursday evening in Taylor County with winds as…
In the wake of Hurricane Helene, even Rick Scott says climate is ‘clearly changing’
Florida’s former governor told reporters, ‘we’ve got to figure this out.’
In the aftermath of Helene, a Tampa Bay group gathers supplies to donate to those in need
Mutual Aid Disaster Relief collects supplies Saturday from 9 a.m.-7 p.m. at Waters Avenue Church.
Tampa Bay Black Authors Expo comes to Tampa Heights this weekend
Nearly two dozen authors are on the agenda.
Ybor City’s BarrieHaus Beer Co. opens new Trinity taproom on October 5
The exporter of super-clean lagers opened in Tampa five years ago.
Mema’s Alaskan Tacos returns to Ybor, Hyde Park’s Goody Goody says goodbye, and more in our Tampa Bay food roundup
Plus, St. Pete is getting a Cook Out, BarrieHaus heads to Trinity, our readers pick Tampa Bay’s best restaurants and more
Preview: Can the Bucs take down the Eagles (again)?
It’ll all be OK.
Tampa Mayor Jane Castor says National Guard has been activated to help with water rescues
Officials are encouraging people to stay off the roads and at home if they can.
Over 1 million Florida residents left without power following Hurricane Helene
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis promised linemen would be in the field restoring power “probably as soon as there’s light out.”
Tampa’s Symphonic Distribution stages Vibes Of the Bay on Saturday
There’s no cover if you register in advance.
Hurricane Helene now a ‘very dangerous’ Category 3 storm as it barrels towards Florida
Helene is now moving quickly at 23 mph and is considered a “very dangerous and large hurricane” that will likely reach Category 4 status.
‘You cannot survive that’: Florida official warns of danger from approaching Hurricane Helene
DeSantis warned residents that time was running out to evacuate.
Popular barbecue chain Cook Out looking to open new St. Petersburg location
The Carolina-based concept already has plans for two locations in Tampa.
Hurricane Helene ‘moving fast’ before Florida landfall Thursday night
“It is possible that this storm could make landfall as a major hurricane, as a Category 3, or even potentially a Category 4,” DeSantis said.
As Hurricane Helene approaches, Florida residents ‘pray for the best’
“This one just looks like pretty much a sure thing that it is going to hit this area and be pretty intense.”
Best Literary Hidden Gem
Read Herring
Best Realtor
Kent Rodahaver
Best Outdoor Dining
The Living Room
Best Laugh Until Your Face Hurts
Cat Lim’s ‘An American Darling’
Best Mexican Restaurant
Casa Tina’s Authentic Mexican
Best Tutor/Tutoring Service
Little Learners
Best Record Label
RC Muzik Group
Best Roots/Alt-Country Act
Crossfire Creek Band
Best Ode To The Florida Man
‘Florida Man: Poems Revisited’ By Tyler Gillespie
Best Male Dramatic Closeup
Jim Sorensen, Tampa Rep
Best Poet
Margo Espinosa
Best Professional Theater Company (paid cast and production)
American Stage
Best Visual Art Curator
Catherine Bergmann
Best ‘Best of the Bay’ Category to Add
Best Animal Rescue
Best Trashy Eats
Trash Panda Provisions
Best Underground Theater
Cinema Supper Series – Gigglewaters
Best Local Witch Teaching Practical Magic
Lorraine Monteagut, Witchy Heights
Best Acupuncturist
White Crane Clinic
Best Car Detailer
Auto Recon Detailing & Pressure Washing
Best Book Club
Silent Book Club Riverview
Best Journalist
Colleen Wright, Tampa Bay Times
Best Birthing Center
Labor of Love
Best Politically Motivated Evisceration Of A Once Great Educational Institution
Desantis And Corcoran’s Crusade To Destroy New College
Best Public Golf Course
Clearwater Country Club
Best All Grown Up And Working From Home, Seminole
Driftwood Coffee And Kava
Best Sports Coach
Jon Cooper
Best Bar
The Landing at Jannus
Best Place to Buy a Unique Gift
Pour and Decor
Best Dispensary
Jones Genetics Dispensary
Best Chinese Restaurant
Yummy House
Best Club DJ
DJ Mike Sklarz
Best Cuban Restaurant
The Columbia Restaurant
Best Coffee
Mazzaro’s Italian Market
Best Cajun Dish
Shrimp & Grits – The Tides Seafood Market & Provisions
Best One-Man Retail Team
John At The Optic Shop
Best Med Spa
Castellano Cosmetic Surgery Med Spa
Best Eggs Benedict
Oxford Exchange
Best Mental Health Counselor/Therapist
Dr. Melissa Fickey – Embracing Life Wellness Center
Best Mobile/Pop-Up Bar Company
Belles of the Bar
Best Lumber Yard
Anderson’s Lumber
Best Wedding Planning Company
Truly Yours Wedding Planning
Best Vintage Market
Vintage Post Marketplace
Best Margarita
Casa Tina’s Authentic Mexican
Best Running or Walking Event
St. Pete Runfest
Best Sex Shop
The Todd Couples Superstore
Best Spa
Safety Harbor Resort & Spa
Best Music School (Non-Academic)
Girls Rock Camp St Pete
Best Sports Bar
Ferg’s Sports Bar & Grill
Best Tampa Restaurant
Bern’s Steak House
Best Salad Bar
Nature’s Food Patch
Best Sangria
Columbia Restaurant
Best Museum
The Dali Museum
Best Season In Spite Of It All
American Stage
Best Stencil Work
Lucky Leroy ‘Florida Famous’
Best Theatrical MVP
Roxanne Fay
Best Way To Chase A Shot Like A Contestant On ‘Fear Factor’
Tequila & Dried Scorpions At Reservoir Bar
Best Magician
Cory Van Valin
Best Farm
Keel & Curley
Best Bittersweet Farewell
Cameron Dilley
Best Going Back To My Roots
Tampa’s Historic 7th Avenue Bricking Project
Best Barber
Lat and Sons – St. Petersburg
Best Community Center
Dunedin Community Center
Best Caterer
3 C’s Catering
Best Choreographer
Heather Osarczuk
Best Radio Station Massage Chair
Bubba Army HQ
Best Band
The Shakes Society
Best Bargain Restaurant
Trip’s Diner
Best Bartender
Jersey Lane
Best Dog Training
Total Dog Tampa
Best Drag Performer
Veronica Foxx
Best Financial Advisor
Priscilla Nunez – PMN Financial Associates LLC
Best Dance Company
The Dance Company Trinity
Best Decadent Burger From A Food Truck
The Franco Avocado At Go Stuff Urself
Best Family Performer
Dewayne Hill
Best Food Pop-up
Nah Dogs
Best Personal Trainer
Burg Body Fitness – Coach Tii Wood
Best Insurance Agent
Daniel Boon
Best Grouper Sandwich
The Tides Seafood Market & Provisions
Best Fandom Commitment To The Bit
Elevenses’ ‘Gilmore Girls’ Pop-Up
Best Happy Hour
COCKtail St. Pete
Best Public Library Branch
Largo Public Library
Best Non-Alcoholic Cocktails
The Saint
Best Pad Thai
Lemongrass
Best Meal Under Oath
Sal Rosa
Best Middle Eastern Restaurant
Nana Street Food
Best Jam Band
Black Honkeys
Best South Tampa Restaurant
On Swann
Best New Radio Station
Sector Fm
Best One-Woman Three-Way
Jen Casler
Best Robot Breakfast
Corner Café In Gulfport
Best Place to Order Oysters
The Tides Seafood Market & Provisions
Best Public Artwork
Derek Donnelly’s ‘Mother Kali’ and Hibiscus Wall
Best Yarn-Spinner
Roxanne Fay
Best ‘Best of the Bay’ Category to Kill
Local OnlyFans Account
Best Turkish Doner This Side Of The Ottoman Empire
Sara’s Mediterranean Market And Kebab House
Best Way To Justify Drinking Two Liters At Lunch
Das Boot At Independent Bar & Cafe
Best Boat Mechanic
James Giacona
Best Pawn Shop
Mr. Money
Best Florida College Team
University of South Florida Bulls
Best Bridge
Highlands Hammock State Park
Best City
St. Petersburg
Best New Life Given To An Absolutely Haunted Building
The Guinn Center At Adams & Jennings Funeral Home
Best Wimp Excuse For A Funding Cut
Desantis’s Fringe Festival Diss
Best Public Park
Fort De Soto Park
Best Commercial Cleaning Service
Lee’s Royal Services LLC
Best Sportswriter
Carter Brantley
Best Cabaret Space That Can Do It All
Side Door At The Palladium
Best Customer Service
Rayz Tanning Salon
Best Drag Event
Saturday Night at COCKtail
Best Classical Musician
Claudia White
Best Country Act
Crossfire Creek Band
Best Brewery, Pasco
Dade City Brewhouse
Best Experimental Act
Andrew Polo
Best Devil Crab
Brocato’s
Best Fringe Show Title
‘Captain Havoc And The Big Titty Bog Witches’
Best Fried Chicken
King of the Coop
Best IV Bar
InVigorate IV
Best Place to Get Tech Stuff Fixed
uBreakiFix
Best Gulfport-And-Beyond Mini-Empire
Stella’s Expansion
Best Proctologist
Dr. Alan Weintraub, MD
Best Wellness Center
BODZE Plastic Surgery, Wellness Center, and Medical Spa
Best T-Shirt Company
5801 Print House
Best Kombucha
Mother Kombucha
Best Title Company
Compass Land and Title
Best Skate Shop
Skatepark of Tampa
Best Neighborhood Bar, Pasco
Noble Crust Wesley Chapel
Best Recording Studio
Boom Boom Room Recording Studios
Best St. Pete Restaurant
Fortu
Best Pre-Historic Movie Date Night
CW’s Gin Joint
Best Organized Bike Ride
Bert’s Barracuda Toy Run
Best Pop Act
Crossfire Creek Band
Best Sommelier
Jayme Kosar
Best Smooth Operator
Jask
Best Strip Club
2001 Odyssey
Best Theatrical ‘Poptop’ Gasp
Logan Franke, Jobsite Theater
Best Up-And-Coming Comedian
Ginger Kelly
Best Couple
Tom and Cindy Bassano
Best Pathfinder
Carlton Ward Jr.
Best Car Wash
Woodie’s Wash Shack
Best Muni Saint
Marty Shelby
Best Barbershop
The Barbershop by Salon Inga
Best Blow Bar
Sip & Dry – A Blow Dry Bar
Best Beer Selection
House of Beer Dunedin
Best Personality to Follow on Instagram
Denis Phillips (@denisphillipsabcweather)
Best Bakery (Bread)
Mazzaro’s Italian Market
Best Pickleball Kerfuffle
The Factory Flap
Best Place to Get the Perfect Instagram Photo
Pour and Decor
Best Handyman
Johnny’s Restorations
Best Concert (Large, over 2,000 capacity)
Taylor Swift
Best Breakfast Sandwich
St. Pete Bagel Co.
Best Free Clinic
Clearwater Free Clinic
Best Buffet
Jerk Hut
Best Doctor for a Nip and Tuck
BODZE, Dr. Eric Khairalla
Best Martial Arts Studio
Tampa Wing Chun Kung Fu and Self Defense, Sifu Garrett Brumfield
Best Pest Control
Natural Born Killers LLC
Best Downtown Passage To Another Dimension
2d Cafe, St. Petersburg
Best The Hub, But Bougie
Wine On Water
Best Pool Designer/Builder
PCS Pools
Best Filmmaker
Alison Burns
Best Lunch Item ($12 & Under)
The Brinehouse- Half Sandwich & Soup or salad- $10
Best Reason To Still Act Patriotic
Red White & Blue Thrift, Tampa
Best Tattoo Studio
Doom Club Tattoo Collective
Best Pasco Restaurant
Noble Crust
Best Instrumentalist
Kat on the Keyz
Best Life-Changing Musical Role
Clay Christopher, Dr. Frank-N-Furter, ‘The Rocky Horror Show’
Best Reggae/Ska Band
Good Luck Kings
Best Steakhouse
Bern’s Steak House
Best Tapas/Small Plates
Fortu
Best Sandwich That’s Not Chicken, Cuban or Grouper
Mazzaro’s Italian Market
Best Poke Restaurant
Pacific Counter
Best Museum Exhibit
Dali Alive 360
Best Visual Art Festival
Gasparilla Festival of the Arts
Best Taste Of New England
Mason’s Famous Lobster Rolls
Best Unexpected Stoner All-You-Can-Eat Joint
Nine Spices Hot Pot
Best Wesley Chapel Restaurant
The Living Room
Best Activist
Christopher Gorman
Best Bookstore
Tombolo Book Store
Best Farm (Agricultural)
Keel & Curley
Best Black-Owned Business
Lat and Sons – St. Petersburg
Best Hold The Line
Tampa 5
Best Late Night Listening
Tampa City Council
Best Community Garden
HEP – Homeless Empowerment Garden
Best Chiropractor
Dr. Jordan Vanderveen – Nexus Chiropractic
Best Art Party
Trashy Treasures @ Dunedin Fine Art Center
Best Strip Club DJ
Reign – DJ Chad
Best Vasilevskiy, Schmasilevskiy
Ashley Orkus, Tampa Bay Sun Fc
Best Fashion Designer
Natural Born Thriller
Best Cruelty-Free Baking Extraordinaire
Gabby Bakes
Best Hospital
Tampa General Hospital
Best Fitness Studio
Studio Physique
Best Brewery, Pinellas
3 Daughters Brewery
Best Don’t Buy A Jersey With The Name On Back
Tampa Bay Rays
Best Comedy Open Mic
Soggy Bottom Brewery
Best Health Food Market
Rollin’ Oats Market
Best Medical Imaging Services
BayCare Outpatient Imaging (Bardmoor)
Best Photo Booth
Party Flixers
Best Excuse To Get ‘One More’
Una Más
Best Lash and/or Brow Salon
Blush Suites
Best Hello In There
John Prine Tribute Weekend
Best Veterinarian
Harmony Vet Care of Brandon
Best Karaoke DJ
Swell Rell
Best Large Concert Venue (2,000-plus capacity)
Amalie Arena
Best Home Away From Home
Philfest
Best ‘Less Is More’ Witch-Hunt Response
Brianna Larson, Think Tank/Tampa Rep
Best Locally-Made Liquor
St. Petersburg Distillery Spiced Rum
Best Southern Cooking
Southern Fresh
Best No Look Pass
‘Blind Squirrel’ By Dave Mishkin
Best Pub Grub
Angry Chair Brewing
Best Pizza To Embody A Sandwich
Cuban Sandwich Pizza, Abc Pizza House
Best Seafood Restaurant
The Tides Seafood Market & Provisions
Best Radio Show
Bubba The Love Sponge
Best Spirit Of Kenny K
WMNF on Saturday Night
Best Suburban Jazz Club
Friday Nights At Di Coffee Bar
Best Thinking Outside The Mug
Dakota Parkinson
Best Use Of Balloons
Jason Hackenwerth
Best Mayor
Jane Castor
Best Brochures
West Coast Graphics
Best Fuck The System
Bree Wallace
Best Campaign Flops
Desantis’ Failed Run For Prez And Failed School Board Candidates
Best Barre Studio
The Bar Method – Tampa
Best Dentist
Dr. Nicholas Mickelson – Nova Dental
Best Art Gallery (non-museum)
Dunedin Fine Art Center
Best Consignment Shop
Curv Exchange
Best Bluegrass Band
The Wandering Hours
Best Cosmetic Surgery Center
Castellano Cosmetic Surgery Center
Best Dog Groomer/Pet Stylist
Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming – South Tampa, Clearwater, Dunedin
Best Distillery
St. Petersburg Distillery
Best Dramatic Musical Gut Punch
Alexis Cara-Girbés, Tampa Rep
Best Cuban Sandwich
La Segunda
Best Coffee Roaster
Mazzaro’s Italian Market
Best Craft Beer Event
Bad Ass Beer Fest (Tampa Bay Brewing Co.)
Best Optometrist
Dane Kuplicki
Best Hot Sauce
The Dunedin Smokehouse
Best Medical Research Company
Innovative Research of West Florida, Inc.
Best Jukebox (non Touch-Tunes)
The Hub
Best Mortgage Company
Storch Mortgage Team
Best Professional Organizer
The Global Organizer
Best Real Estate Company
NextHome South Pointe
Best Old-School Cinnamon Roll
Mama G’s
Best Roofing Company
Mitchell Roofing Company
Best Librarian Of Booze
Daniel Bareswilt
Best Liquor Store
Luekens Wine & Spirits
Best Spin Studio
Rush Cycle St Pete
Best Solo Musical Comedy Number
Heather Krueger has long been a go-to musical performer and choreographer in the Bay Area. But in “Falsettos,” the musical nervous breakdown for her character, Trina, is one of the single greatest show-off numbers for an actress in the musical theater canon. And Ms. Krueger takes full advantage of the moment to flaunt her prodigious…
Best Supermarket Row
4th Street North in St. Petersburg
Best Open Mic Night (Music)
The Remix @ Shuffle
Best Performing Arts Center
David A. Straz Center for Performing Arts
Best Mindbender Of An Art Show
‘Never The Same Song’ At The Museum Of Fine Arts, St. Petersburg
Best Music Festival
Gasparilla Music Festival
Best Vocalist
Aimee MaGee—Women of Rock
Welcome to Creative Loafing’s Best of The Bay 2024
When Creative Loafing’s Best of the Bay launched in 1990, I was five years old. Sandy Freedman was mayor of Tampa, while another Tampeño, Bob Martinez, lived 465 miles away in the governor’s mansion. Zooming out, inflation was at 5.4%, and the ratio of CEO pay to the average worker’s was 74-to-1. Back then, readers…
Best Vegan Restaurant
Good Intentions
Best Whiskey Bar
Urban Stillhouse
Best Crossword Jocks
Pete Fairbanks And Jason Adam
Best Business Coach/Business Consultant
Kelly Abanda
Best Architect
Alex Rios – RIOS Architecture, Inc
Best Hyper-Local Radio
Black Power Radio, 96.3-FM
Best Latin-Owned Business
BODZE Plastic Surgery, Wellness Center, and Medical Spa
Best Actor
Matthew McGee
Best $100 Lunch
Psomi
Best Road Warrior
Dayna Lazarus
Best Bakery (Pastries)
Mazzaro’s Italian Market
Best Bar Crawl
Breweries of Dunedin Pub Crawl
Best Carrollwood Restaurant
Noble Crust
Best Chef
Fortu – Chef Nathan Howey
Best Dry Cleaner
Sacino’s Dry Cleaning & Garment Care
Best Concert Promoter
Ethiosouth Music⎹Verzuz: BayStyle
Best Furniture Store (new or used)
Vintage Post Marketplace
Best Deli
Wright’s Gourmet House
Best Hair Salon
Black Amethyst Hair Co.
Best Massage Therapist
Melania’s Healing Edge
Best Gourmet Market
Mazzaro’s Italian Market
Best Espresso Martini
Sonder Social Club
Best Indian Restaurant
Curry Leaves
Best New Business
BODZE Plastic Surgery, Wellness Center, and Medical Spa
Best Supermarket
Mazzaro’s Italian Market
Best Kava Bar
UniTea Kava Lounge
Best Palm Harbor Restaurant
Mystic Fish
Best Patio in South St. Pete
Estate Cigars & Social
Best Monthly Bloody Mary Event
Shadrack’s
Best Neighborhood Bar, Pinellas
Harvey’s 4th Street Grill
Best Release By A Local Band
‘Without You’ by Crossfire Creek
Best Non-Comedy Venture By A Comedian
Ward Smith’s The Off-Central
Best Quiet Cafe For A Cause
The Portico Cafe
Best Sandwich To Come Into The Office Reeking Like An Italian Stallion
Supernatural Food & Wine
Best Pottery Studio
Morean Center for Clay
Best Soup
The Brinehouse
Best Soul/R&B/Funk Act
Black Honkeys
Best Tea Shop
UniTea Kava Lounge
Best Versaggi Shrimp Ambassador
Clammaster Jay
Best Use Of Processed Food Boxes
Jason Lazarus’ Eclipse Project
Best Newspaper That’s Not Creative Loafing
Tampa Bay Times
Best Farm (Family-Friendly Entertainment)
Old McMickeys Farm
Best ‘Girls Just Wanna Have Fun’ (Over 50)
The Windlasses Sailing Center
Best Auto Mechanic
Wrench Masters LLC
Best City Councilmember/County Commissioner
Richie Floyd
Best Walking Tour
St. Peters Ghost Tour
Best Bloody Mary
Gigglewaters
Best Cigar Shop
Smokey Jones Smoke & Vape Shop
Best Sad News For Arts Lovers
Maggie Duffy Leaving The Times
Best Stripper
Victoria at Reign
Best Pigskin Beat Writer
Rick Stroud, Tampa Bay Times
Best Don’t Say A Word
Katara Album Release
Best Home Decor
Vintage Post Marketplace
Best Chunky Chocolate Chip Cookie
Cassis Bakery
Best Cover Band
Crossfire Creek Band
Best Brewery That Lived Up To Its Name
Big Storm Brewing Co.
Best Burger That Seemed Beyond Impossible
Burger Monger’s Impossible Burger
Best Cakes
The Cake Girl
Best Food Truck
Taco Bus
Best Dunedin Restaurant
The Living Room
Best Jewelry Store
Gold & Diamond Source
Best Place to Shop Green
Nature’s Food Patch
Best Fish & Chips
The Tides Seafood Market & Provisions
Best Irish Pub
Flanagan’s Irish Pub
Best Hip-Hop Act
Fre$h P
Best Tanning Service
Rayz Tanning Salon
Best Martini
Fortu
Best Leading Man
Jim Sorensen
Best Skincare Specialist
Castellano Cosmetic Surgery Center
Best Jazz Ensemble
Hot Tonic
Best Sushi Restaurant
Pisces Sushi & Global Bistro
Best Open Mic Night (Comedy)
Side Splitters Comedy Club
Best Place to Play Pool
OCC Roadhouse
Best Pre-Country Legend Crying Session
The Avett Brothers, Midflorida Credit Union Amphitheatre, Tampa
Best Poet’s Paradise
City Of Writers Poetry Festival
Best Way To Make The Most Of A Rainy Event Day
Rock The Park At The Hub Bar
Best Tattoo Artist
Doom Club Tattoo Collective – Nick Harrison
Best Wine Bar
Bern’s Steak House
Best Milestone
Equality Florida’s Million-Dollar Haul
Best Art Supply Store
Bottom of the Bin
Best CEO
Ashley Lowery – Homeless Empowerment Program
Best College Hangout
UniTea Kava Lounge
Best Beach Bar
Thunderbird’s Ikki Woo-Woo’s Tiki Hut
Best Woman-Owned Business
InVigorate V
Best Pushback
The Mass Protests Against Fdep’s Boneheaded Move Following bipartisan protests across the state, Gov.
Best Asian Restaurant
Fortu
Best Sunchasers
RBLR Sports
Best Place for a Wedding
The James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art
Best Hair Stylist
Tristan Fox – Whole Aveda
Best Electrician
Tesla Electrical Solutions
Best Florist
Jennie’s Florist
Best Cupcakes
Wright’s Gourmet House
Best Comedy Club
Side Splitters
Best Fortnightly Jazz Show
Sola Bistro
Best Health Food Store
Nature’s Food Patch
Best Hotel Bar
COCKtail St. Pete
Best Physical Therapist
Dr. Ken Clark – Purpose Physical Therapy
Best Midwife/Doula
Alyssa Bedard – Breathing Through Life
Best Moving Company
Big Boys Moving & Storage
Best Locally-Made Seltzer
3 Daughters Brewing
Best Mac ‘n’ Cheese
The Brisket Shoppe
Best Late-Night Restaurant
Taco Bus
Best Pizza
Madison Ave. Pizza
Best Walk Club
Rolling Proud Club- Waking Squad
Best New Batcave
Sky Puppy Brewing Co.
Best Not-A-Sex Festival
Tampa Fringe
Best Ramen
Buya Ramen
Best Seminole Heights Restaurant
Rooster & the Till
Best Read My Mind
Pet Lizard, ‘Intrusive Thoughts’
Best Spoken Word Artist
Novacane
Best Theater Production
Les Miserables at Center Stage
Best Vietnamese Restaurant
La V Vietnamese Fusion
Best Wings
The Dunedin Smokehouse
Best Dog Park
Fort De Soto Paw Playground and Dog Beach
Best Car Dealership
Hyundai Of Wesley Chapel
Best Boneheaded Anti-Environmental Move
The Pickleball-In-The-Parks Plan
Best Indication That Ron Still Hates The Gays
The Removal Of LGBTQ+ Content From The Visit Florida Site
Best Bike Mechanic
St. Pete Bike Co-op
Best BBQ Before The Beach
C & J’s Bar-B-Que
Best CBD Shop
Smokey Jones Smoke & Vape Shop
Best Acai Bowl
SOHO Juice Co.
Best Personality to Follow on TikTok
Hazel Alevok (@hazelalevok6)
Best Book by a Local Author
‘The Donzi’ by LeRoy Schreiner
Best Celebrity Charity Event
St. Pete Pride
Best Charcuterie
Mazzaro’s Italian Market
Best Dive Bar
Bauser’s
Best Fiber Arts Meme-Maker
Karina Plemmons
Best Insurance Agency
Crystal Clear Insurance
Best Dancer
Shelby Russ, Tampa City Ballet
Best Delicious But Bittersweet Dish
Charred Cabbage At Ten Rooms
Best OBGYN
Dr. Helena Reichman – Women’s Care Florida
Best Painting Company
Seasons Best Painting and Contracting
Best Interior Designer
David Fischer at ZaZood
Best Grilled Cheese
Gigglewaters
Best Piercer (non-tattoo artist)
Corey Godoy – Forbidden Images
Best Pool Service
Triangle Pool Service
Best Fish Shack
Ted Peters Famous Smoked Fish
Best Italian Restaurant
Pia’s Trattoria
Best Literary Journal
Arts Coast Magazine
Best Record Store
Daddy Kool Records
Best Local Directorial Debut
Helen R. Murray, ‘Indecent’
Best Mediterranean Restaurant
Acropolis Greek Taverna
Best Moved My Cheese
Meltso, Downtown Tampa
Best Startup
Tampa Period Pantry
Best World Music Wormhole
Mango Groove, Wmnf
Best Poolside Bar
Thunderbird’s Ikki Woo-Woo’s Tiki Hut
Best Rooftop Bar
The Canopy at the Birchwood
Best Photographer
Jessica Cruz Photography
Best Monumental Art
Ya La’ford
Best Music History Lesson-Turned Concert
The Wallflowers, Bilheimer Capitol Theatre
Best Square Dancing In The Rain
Yonder Mountain String Band, Gasparilla Music Festival
Best Temple Terrace Restaurant
Big John’s Alabama BBQ
Best Trivia Company
Timeless Entertainment
Best Use Of New Theater Technology
Eric Davis, Freefall Theatre
Best LGBTQ-Owned Business
COCKtail St. Pete
Best Bridal Boutique
Bearer of the Bling Bridal
Best Aesthetics Injector
Castellano Cosmetic Surgery Center
Best ‘Giving The Finger To Sisyphus’ Couple
Elizabeth Brincklow & Zeke Durica For The Dunedin Public Theater Foundation, Inc.
Best Auto Repair Shop
Wrench Masters LLC
Best LGBTQ Organization
St. Pete Pride
Best Place to Volunteer
First Ladies Farm & Sanctuary
Best Politician
Mayor Jane Castor
Best Clothing Boutique (Men)
Atlas Body + Home
Best Sad News For Book Lovers
Colette Bancroft Leaving The Times
Best Tipsy History
Manny Leto At Tampa Shuffle
Best CPA/Tax Preparer
Monica Rivera – Monica’s Accounting Solutions LLC
Best Handcrafted Jewelry
Designs by Amy Jean
Best Doggy Day Care
Paws ‘n’ Rec
Best Breakfast
Lenny’s Restaurant
Best Brewer
Captain Steve – 3 Daughters
Best Comedy Event Concept
Sunshine Comedy Festival
Best Coffee Shop
Kahwa Coffee
Best Mani/Pedi
Heavenly Nails
Best Foodie Influencer
@thisbabeeats
Best Doughnuts
Fray’s Donut House
Best Hotel Restaurant
Sal Rosa
Best Guacamole
Red Mesa Restaurant
Best Gulfport Restaurant
Pia’s Trattoria
Best Nutritionist
Bernie Anderson
Best Vape Shop
Smokey Jones Smoke & Vape Shop
Best Videographer
Anna Faiola
Best ‘Only In Florida’ Artery Clogger
The Cheesy Todd; Datz, St. Petersburg
Best Run Club
Rolling Proud Run Club
Best Improv Team
Spitfire Comedy House
Best Lobster Roll
Got Lobstah?
Best New Food Truck
Shiso Crispy Central St. Pete
Best Riso And Shine Meetup
Collate At Print St. Pete
Best Tacos
Red Mesa Restaurant
Best Restaurant District
Downtown St. Pete
Best Metal/Hardcore Band
Disasterpiece
Best Morning TV Show
Good Day Tampa Bay
Best Weekly Club Night
Castle Fridays
Best Tequila Bar
Red Mesa Cantina
Best Waitstaff
Bern’s Steak House
Best Cosplayer
Jack Rozsa
Best A/C Repair Company
Jenergy Air Services
Best Farmers Market
First Ladies Farm & Sanctuary
Best Attorney
Brian ‘Babyface’ Motroni
Best Influencer
Chiara Aceto
Best Nature Trail
Boyd Hill Nature Preserve
Best Plant Shop
White Wood on Main
Best Actress
Lisa Reimer
Best Personality to Follow on Twitter
Denis Philips (@DenisPhillipsWx)
Best Bakery for Your Pet
Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming – South Tampa, Clearwater, Dunedin
Best Barista
Basha Brach (Mazzaro’s)
Best Century-Old Dim Sum
Retro House Asian Bistro & Coffee Shop
Best Brandon Restaurant
Acropolis Greek Taverna
Best Dog-Friendly Bar
Dog Bar DTSP
Best Cocktails
The Saint
Best Brunch
Noble Crust
Best Gym
The Bar Method – Tampa
Best Food Festival
John’s Pass Seafood Festival
Best Gallery (Non-Museum) Show
Chad Mize: BLISS at FloridaRAMA Gallery
Best Pet Boutique
Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming – South Tampa, Clearwater, Dunedin
Best Mental Health Clinic
Bionic Bloom
Best Ice Cream/Gelato/Frozen Yogurt
Dairy Rich
Best Law Firm
Diaco Law
Best Makeup Artist
Adore Bridal Hair and Makeup
Best New Restaurant
Frankie’s Italian Chophouse
Best Surf Shop
Suncoast Surf Shop
Best Key Lime Pie
Mike’s Pies
Best Pardon Her French
Maryann Ferenc, Mise En Place
Best Like Fine Wine
Bella’s Italian Cafe
Best Smoke Shop
Smokey Jones Smoke & Vape Shop
Best PT For A New Knee
Carey Zilbauer, Central Neurology
Best Nature On A Grid
Mikhail Mansion’s ‘Nature Pix’
Best NYC Entertainment Indulgence
Straz Center For The Performing Arts’ 2023-24 Broadway Season
Best Open Mic Night (Poetry)
Smoken Words
Best Playwright
William Leavengood
Best Pro Sports Team
Tampa Bay Lightning
Best Witching Hour Egg Cream
Papa’s New York Diner
Best Stand-Up Comedian
Dewayne Hill
Best Thing To Happen To Grilled Cheese Ever
The Adult Grilled Cheese At Urban Brew & BBQ
Best ‘Turning Lemons Into Lemonade’ Production
A Motown Celebration, Freefall Theatre
Best Local OnlyFans Account
Ariel Marie (@arielmariexx)
Best Entrepreneurial Club/Networking Event
St. Pete Girl Boss
Best Person To Walk Through Ybor City With
Max Herman, Tampa Bay Tours
Best Blogger
Angie Soul
Best Bait & Tackle Shop
Riviera Bait & Tackle St. Pete
Best College or University
University of South Florida
Best Dark Academic Apothecary And Occult Shop
Spellcrafter
Best Bodega Birria In The ‘Burbs
El Milagro Mexican Store
Best Clothing Boutique (Women)
Seersucker Sassy Boutique
Best Ass-Whoopin’ Of A Celebrity Chef
Rob Reinsmith, Wild Child
Best TV Host/Newsperson
Denis Phillips
Best Veteran-Owned Business
Paws Paradise Fur Life
Best Diner
Mama’s Kitchen
Best Chicken Shawarma
Petra Restaurant
Best Concert (Small, under 2,000 capacity)
Girls Rock Camp St. Pete
Best Cuban Coffee
La Segunda
Best General Contractor
Oasis Custom Homes
Best Burgers
Gigglewaters
Best Harbour Island Facelift
Jackson’s Bistro And Sushi Bar
Best Mechanic
Dan’s Brake World
Best Ice Cream Sundae With A Surprise Layer
Small Batch Creamery
Best Pilates Studio
Studio Physique
Best Film Festival
Gasparilla Film Festival
Best Nail Artist
Alt Studios
Best Karaoke
The Corner Bar & Grill
Best Juice
SOHO Juice Co.
Best Local Arts Activism
The Warehouse Arts District Association
Best Thrift Shop
Homeless Empowerment Program (HEP) Thrift Store
Best Men In Kilts With Wee Drams
Scotch With Bob & Matt, New World Celts Whisky Tasting
Best Neighborhood Bar, Hillsborough
Thunder Bay Bar & Grill
Best Sourdough Croissants In Tampa
State Flour Bakery
Best Rock Band
WOR- A Tribute To Women of Rock
Best Post-Concert Car Pizza
New York New York
Best Safety Harbor Restaurant
Gigglewaters
Best Place to Bowl
Pin Chasers
Best Server (non-bartender)
Dylon Luce – Pisces Sushi and Global Bistro
Best X-Rated Cakes
The Cake Girl
Best Stand-Up Comedy Venue
Side Splitters Comedy Club
Best Thai Restaurant
Lemon Grass Thai Kitchen
Best Waterfront Dining
Fresco’s Waterfront Bistro
Best Singer/Songwriter
Beamon Battie
Best Boat Club
Freedom Boat Club
Best Nightlife District
Central Ave. – Downtown St. Pete
Best Beach Town
Dunedin
Best Artisan’s Festival
The Junior League of Clearwater-Dunedin Art Harvest
Best Christmas In July DIY Ornament Competition
Salty Soul Island Kitchen
Best Networker
Kent Rodahaver
Best Beach Restaurant
Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill
Best Men In Kilts With Wee Drams
Scotch With Bob & Matt, New World Celts Whisky Tasting
Best Comic Book Store-Turned Strip Mall
Wonder Water Sports Cards Comics & Games
Best Shameless Disrespect For Learning
The Book Dump At New College
Best Banh Mi
La V – Vietnamese Fusion
Best Place to Adopt a Pet
AnimalLuvr’s Dream Rescue
Best Cheesecake
Bassano Cheesecake
Best Hookah Lounge
Mad Hatter’s
Best Event Planning Service
Elegant Affairs by Design
Best Dance Club
Blur
Best Date Restaurant
CW’s Gin Joint
Best Desserts
Bern’s Steak House, Harry Waugh Dessert Room
Best Marketing Agency
Bayshore Marketing Group
Best Party Rental Service
Stella Rose Events
Best Medical Marijuana Physician or Clinic
Liberate Physician Center
Best Event That Mixes Education And Booze
Pints Of Science At New World Brewery
Best Plumbing Company
Plumbing by Paul
Best Lawn Service
Honey Dudes
Best Waxing Salon
Whole Aveda Salon & Spa
Best Yoga Studio
Yoga Loft
Best Tarot Reader
Joe—The Misfit Lion
Best LGBTQ Bar
COCKtail St. Pete
Best Legacy
Bob Devin Jones
Best Solar Company
Mitchell Solar Solutions LLC
Best Music School (Institutional/academic)
USF School of Music
Best Splurge Restaurant
Bern’s Steak House
Best Tampa Heights Restaurant
Oak & Ola
Best Opera Company
St. Pete Opera
Best Place To Drink Like A Bougie Pirate
Morgan’s Cove
Best Smoothies
Rollin’ Oats Market
Best Visual Artist
Julie Haura
Best Stage Director
David Jenkins
Best Tiki Drinks
Thunderbird’s Ikki Woo-Woo’s Tiki Hut
Best TV Station
Fox 13
Best Boat Charter
Salt and Mist Sea Tours
Best Environmental Organization
Tampa Bay Watch
Best Finally-She-Has-A-Book Book
Stephanie Hayes’ ‘Be Serious’
Best Mover & Shaker
Kent Rodahaver
Best Journalism Gatekeeper
Mark Katches, Tampa Bay Times
Best Columnist
Carter Brantley
Best Political Speech
Richie Floyd, ‘no’ To Rays Stadium
Best All-You-Can-Play Pinball Machine Collection
Replay Amusement Museum, Tarpon Springs
Best Radio Personality
Bubba The Love Sponge
Best Bagels
St. Pete Bagel Co.
Best Ultimate Philanthropy Warrior
Titus O’Neil
Best Burlesque Act
Best Burlesque Act
Best Fashion Event
Dunedin Fine Arts Center – Wearable Art
Best Drone Operator (Independent)
Tyji Armstong – 86 Drone Photography and Video
Best Hotel
Tradewinds
Best Comedian
Danny Bevins
Best Brunch for Boozing
The Living Room
Best Distributor
Paradise Craft Distributors
Best Head
Barriehaus Beer Co.
Best French Restaurant
The Black Pearl
Best Pet Sitting
Paws Paradise Fur Life
Best Glass-Blowing Studio
Chihuly
Best Landscape Design Company
Campus Landscape
Best Introduction To Tampa Brews
Lighthaus Beer Garden
Best Store Staff
Stellie Bellies Kiddie & Maternity Resale Boutique
Best Lunch Spot
Mazzaro’s Italian Market
Best Residential Cleaning Service
Maid to Order FL Inc.
Best Low Key Concert Livestream
Orpheum
(Still) The Best Little Smoothie Shop In Tampa
Fit Bowl Co. Davis Islands
Best Locally-Made Beer
3 Daughters Brewing
Best Public Art To Give A Fax About
Fax 727-289-3069
Best New Mural
The Thunderbird Hotel – Alyssa Marie Gallery
Best Post-Mental Breakdown Enchiladas
Poblanos Mexican Grill And Bar
Best Ribs
The Dunedin Smokehouse
Best Podcast
Operation Pigmentation
Best Muralist
Izabela Davis- Izabela Joy Art
Best Ybor City Restaurant
Acropolis Greek Taverna
Best Stayin’ Alive
Floridarama
Best Theatrical Chameleon
Andresia Moseley, Jobsite Theater
Best Way To Blow Your Diet On The Weekends
Donut Burgers At Thee Burger Spot
Best County
Pinellas
Best Nonprofit
First Ladies Farm & Sanctuary
Best Antique Shop
Vintage Post Marketplace
Best Graphic Designer
Laura Sayegh – Laura’s Design Studio
Best Bank
Flagship Bank
Best Bike Shop
St. Pete Bike Co-op
Best Ceramicist
Allie Case
Best Bottle Shoppe
Hawthorne Bottle Shoppe
Best Comic Book Shop
Six Strings and Superheroes
Best Philanthropist
Julie Johnson-Weintraub
Best Use Of Leftover Oyster Shells
Tampa Bay Watch’s Shells For Shorelines
Best Barbecue Restaurant
The Dunedin Smokehouse
Best Community Theater Company (unpaid cast and production)
Eight O’Clock Theatre
Best Doc Ford’s
Doc’s Jungle Terrace location
Best Clearwater Restaurant
Clear Sky on Cleveland
Best Brewery, Hillsborough
Tampa Bay Brewing Company
Best Group Fitness
The Bar Method – Tampa
Best Cookies
Bake’n Babes
Best Final U.S. Concert For A Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame Band
The Zombies At Bilheimer Capitol Theatre
Best Hot Dogs
Mel’s Hot Dogs
Best Greek Restaurant
Acropolis Greek Taverna
Best Physical Therapy Clinic
Brooks Rehabilitation – Hudson
Best Hard In The Paint
Concrete Peninsula, Radio St. Pete
Best Nanny Service
SoHo Sitters
Best Radio Station
Winner: WMNF Tampa 88.5 FM Finalists: Sunshine 96.7FM (RadioStPete.com) 102.5 The Bone
