Top Picks

BEST SOUTHERN COOKING
Ivy On The Square
Southern food is synonymous with comfort food so it’s not surprising that great Southern recipes, passed down from one generation to the next, are cherished and protected. And that brings us to Marjorie ”Mimi” Hale – the matriarch of the award-winning “Ivy House Restaurant & Catering” in Williston as well as the new, hip “Ivy On The Square” in downtown Ocala. Two restaurants, two different vibes but both share the same authentic Southern specialties created from Mimi’s cherished family recipes. You’ll find perennial favorites like homemade Pimento Cheese, Fried Green Tomatoes, Shrimp & Grits and Mimi’s signature Baked Krispy Chicken. Everything here is outrageously good! In Ocala at 53 S Magnolia (352-622-5550); and in Williston at 106 NW Mail St (352-528-5410). ivyhousefl.com.

BEST PUPPY HUGS
Southeastern Guide Dogs
Need a good hug? Then head on down to Southeastern Guide Dogs, an outstanding organization that trains puppies on a 33 acre campus to prepare them for their future lives as trained guide dogs. To help socialize these precious puppies, you are invited to come visit for lots of free puppy hugs. FYI: Reservations a must! Find it at 4210 77th St, East in Palmetto – just over St Pete’s Skyway Bridge. Info: 941-729-5665; guidedogs.org.

BEST MEXICAN FOOD
Lona
If you appreciate great Mexican food, listen up: Internationally acclaimed Chefs, Richard Sandoval and Pablo Salas hit the ball out of the park. Their collaborative and contemporary approach to traditional dishes showcases a fusion of regional Mexican cuisines with an inventive array of bold and authentic flavors. From delectable street food favorites, to refined dishes inspired by ancient recipes, Sandoval’s and Salas’ masterful creations celebrate the diversity and complexity of Mexican gastronomy. Not to be missed! Find their cool digs at the Tampa Marriott Water Street, 505 Water St. Info: 813-221-4900 lonatampa.com

BEST WILD HANG
ZooTampa at Lowry Park
With more than 1300 resident animals, ZooTampa is famous for having one of the most beautiful, tropical zoological settings in the world. You’ll experience unforgettable, natural connections and get closer to wildlife than ever before. Touch a giant tortoise, feed a giraffe, go nose-to-horn with an Indian rhino, hand-to-fin with slippery stingrays and a whole lot more! You and your family can also splash in the fun water play areas, climb aboard thrilling rides and take in fascinating educational shows. Love manatees? At the David A. Straz Jr. Manatee Hospital, the Zoo’s veterinary and animal-care staff treat sick, injured and orphaned manatees before returning them to the wild after rehabilitation. Don’t miss this one! ZooTampa is open daily from 9:30am – 5pm. Find it at Lowry Park, 1101 W Sligh Ave, Tampa, Fl 33604. Info: 813-935-8552; zootampa.org.

BEST Rib Eye
Bascom’s Chop House
It’s impossible not to fall in love with everything on Bascom’s menu. The seafood, delivered daily and expertly prepared, is always top-notch. The center-cut prime chops? Simply the best. But let’s talk about the showstopper: the glorious 16 oz bone-in Ribeye. Hand-cut from Certified Angus Midwestern grain-fed steer, this steak is a masterpiece. It’s rich, well-marbled, and served perfectly charred on the outside with an intense, unforgettable flavor. If you’re a steak lover, this Ribeye needs to be on your bucket list! Find it at 3665 Ulmerton Rd., Clearwater. 727-573-3363; bascoms.com.

BEST CIGAR EMPORIUM
Corona Cigar Tampa
With 5,000 square feet of humidified space, this smoking-hot cigar emporium showcases a unique collection of premium cigars, must-have accessories and curated pieces. But what really puts it over the top are the added amenities which include multiple indoor-and-out smoking lounges, private lockers and an elegant full service bar with top shelf libations. Yowza! Find it at the Metwest International Shopping Center, 4142 Boy Scout Blvd. near Tampa’s International Mall and Airport. Info: 813-513-7560; coronacigar.com.

BEST ART HOUSE CINEMA
Hippodrome Theater
Regaled as Gainesville’s “Cultural Centerpiece,” this beautifully restored historic landmark once served a a US Post Office. Today, it’s a fun hub for an eclectic lineup of live theater; independent, foreign and classic films; cutting edge art exhibits by local and regional artists; classes and special events. The spacious multi-purpose, state-of-the-art performance hall is a hip hang year-round and is always a fun jam. Find it at 25 SW 2nd Pl in Gainesville. Info: 352-375-4477; thehipp.orgresistance!” Find it at 48 SW 1st Ave in Ocala.352-433-2570; lacuisineocala.com.

BEST VIEW OF TAMPA
Ballast Point Park & Fishing Pier
Located a little more than 4 miles from downtown Tampa along Bayshore Blvd, this wonderful park with its historic wooden fishing pier jutting out of Tampa Bay, offers unparalleled views of the downtown skyline. It’s also known for the Taste Of Boston restaurant which is one of the few places in the Bay area that serves up classic New England fare including fried Ipswich clams and steamers.

BEST CONCERTS
Benchmark International Arena
Often cited as “The Live Music Capital of the World,” Tampa is also home to one of the most amazing concert venues in the country. From Rock and Pop, to Country and EDM, this high-energy music venue makes every concert a totally immersive experience. The top-tier productions are insanely good with mind-shattering acoustics and electric vibes. The Arena, which also underwent a massive makeover and name change, also boasts a “Concert Club” where a VIP ticket nets you access to an exclusive lounge with premium cocktails and indulgent gourmet food. A great way to kick things up a notch! Located at 401 Channelside Dr, Tampa. Info: 813-301-6500; benchmarkintlarena.com.