Bravo, readers. The Bay area has three performing arts halls, a major arena and any number of clubs — not to mention a new amphitheater (the Ford didn´t open until after Best of the Bay voting closed) — but the rustic courtyard in downtown St. Pete wins the poll. Open since the mid ´80s, Jannus has hosted a staggering array of shows, but more than that, it has wormed its way into our hearts. It´s like a home away from home. You can hang, grab a beer, relax, dance, jump up and down, take off your clothes, whatever. One aspect that rarely gets mentioned, though: The shows usually sound really good in there.
Jannus Landing, Second Street between Central and First avenues N., 727-896-2276.