Food & Drink
Best Restaurant
Scolapasta Bistro and Pasta Shop
“Authentic” is a word that gets thrown around a lot with Italian restaurants; at Scolapasta, they can back it up. Made-in-house pasta and sauces? But of course. They even sell the pasta and sauces for home use. But we recommend letting them put together dinner for you. The wood-fired pizzas, traditional Italian main courses, desserts including Nutella pizza and of course, the amazing pasta dishes, have proper old-world Italian substance. If you want an authentic experience, it’s at Scolapasta. 3358 NE 33rd St., 954.652.1185, scolapastabistro.com
Runners Up: Casa D’Angelo, Con Murphy’s
Best New Restaurant
Heritage
Chef and restaurateur Rino Cerbone has brought real buzz and tasty bites to the MASS District with a menu that goes way beyond what anybody might think of when they think “pizza place.” The dessert menu’s spectacular, as are the signature cocktails. 903 NE 5th Ave., 954.635.2335, heritageftl.com
Runners Up: Takato, Eddie V’s
Best Steakhouse
The Capital Grille
If you visit a great steakhouse, you get great steaks.
Simply put, the quality comes through at Capital Grille. 2430 E Sunrise Blvd., 954.446.2000, thecapitalgrille.com
Runners Up: Steak 954, Eddie V’s
Best Bakery
Gran Forno
Great bread in the Italian style, and as an added bonus you can get it in a tasty sandwich and with a well-made cup of coffee. 1235 E Las Olas Blvd., 954.467.2244, granforno.com
Runners Up: Croissan’Time, Stork’s Bakery & Coffee House
Best Brunch
Shooters Waterfront
The Lauderdale legend continues to be at the top of its game. Sit inside or out on the massive Intracoastal-facing outdoor area. Get some bottomless mimosas flowing and tuck into a brunch bar that’s a regular culinary odyssey. But be warned, late Sunday morning will absolutely turn into late Sunday afternoon (or maybe even Sunday night) when you’re living it up at the Shooters brunch. 3033 NE 32nd Ave., 954.566.2855, shooterswaterfront.com
Runners Up: YOT Bar & Kitchen, Louie Bossi’s
Best Family-Friendly Restaurant
Quarterdeck
The Las Olas and SE 17th Street locations both offer their own advantages for family-friendly dining (as do the other Quarterdecks dotted around South Florida). For our money, we can’t beat the 17th Street location’s big, friendly outdoor courtyard. 2933 E Las Olas Blvd., 954.525.2010, quarterdeckrestaurants.com
Runners Up: Jet Runway Cafe, Shooters Waterfront
Best Thai Restaurant
Thai Spice
Chef Michael Tatton has been serving up Thai food in Fort Lauderdale since before that was a regular thing here. The local cadre of customers who return to his place are evidence of a restaurant where standards remain high and the menu remains creative. 1514 E Commercial Blvd., 954.771.4535, thaispicefla.com
Runners Up: Suan Thai & Japanese Restaurant, Sky Thai Sushi
Best Mexican
La Bamba
This long-time favorite with locations around South Florida does family friendly fare for former kid diners who now bring their own kids there. 1901 Cordova Rd., 954.306.3746, labamba123.com
Runners Up: El Camino, Tacocraft
Best Indian
Bombay Darbar
A classy and elegant stop on Las Olas, Bombay Darbar offers upmarket Indian cuisine. We recommend stopping in for the excellent happy hour as well. 1521 E Las Olas Blvd., 954.990.7222, bombaydarbar.com
Runners Up: Indian Harbor, Moksha Indian Brasserie
Best Cheap Eats
Zona Fresca
Quick, tasty and affordable can still be fresh and creative – particularly if you hit Zona Fresca for lunch. The Mexican food chain with several local locations – including one at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, if you want something other than airplane food – offers a menu that includes street tacos, interesting salads and soups, and chunky burritos. It’s fast and it doesn’t break your wallet, but the quality is there. 1635 N Federal Hwy., 954.566.1777, zonafresca.com
Runners Up: Bodega, Southport Raw Bar
Best Gourmet Doughnuts
Pink Donuts and More
With wildly creative doughnuts piled high with all sorts of treats, it’s no wonder you sometimes have to get to Pink early, before they sell out. 827 E Oakland Park Blvd., 954.900.4932, thepinkdonuts.com
Runners Up: Dandee Donut Factory, Bake Shack
Best Bagel
Chesapeake Bagel bakery
For more than two decades, Chesapeake has been putting out quality, fresh bagels along with good coffee, deli sandwiches and such. 1531 E Commercial Blvd., 954.202.0919, thecbbakery.com
Runners Up: NY Deli, Top Hat Deli
Best Dessert
Batch, The Cookie Company
The cookie-mad scientists at this cool MASS District shop are always coming up with some new concoction. Specials are always changing, but the solid regulars – maybe the Molten Lava Chocolate, perhaps the iced oatmeal – are worth the trip on their own. Vegan and gluten-free options mean everybody can take part in the fun. And the seriousness with which they take cookies is evidenced by the instructions for warming them if you take them home. Rule 1? “Do NOT microwave. You and your cookie deserve the best.” 917 NE 5th Ave., 954.533.8200, batchcookieco.com
Runners Up: Kilwins, Ann’s Florist & Coffee Bar
Best Waterfront Dining
Shooters Waterfront
3033 NE 32nd Ave., 954.566.2855, shooterswaterfront.com
Runners Up: Kaluz, Con Murphy’s
Best Craft Cocktail List
Chops + Hops
Lumberjacks historically weren’t considered big fancy cocktail guys. But in this more refined age, if you want to sip something interesting while chucking axes at a target, that option is available. In addition to an excellent beer menu, the Flagler Village axe-throwing bar offers a cocktail list that includes all-stars such as the Thicc Boi (mango grapefruit punch, Plantation pineapple rum and Rumhaven coconut rum), the That’s What She Said (Herradura reposado, orange, honey, lemon and orange bell pepper) and of course, the Pick Axe (Old Forester rye, passionfruit, lemon and hibiscus tea). 702 NE 1st Ave., 954.247.1687, chopsandhopsfl.com
Runners Up: The Wilder, Ann’s Florist & Coffee Bar
Best Wine List
Casa D’Angelo
When you create Italian food as beautiful as Casa D’Angelo’s, you can’t have any old wine list. This is one where you’ll find many options at many price points, focusing largely on – of course – the great wines of Italy. 1201 N Federal Hwy., #5a, 954.564.1234, casa-d-angelo.com
Runners Up: Tropical Acres Steakhouse, Ann’s Florist & Coffee Bar
Best Beer
Invasive Species Brewing
There’s no point in us naming off favorite Invasive Species beers because part of the place’s beauty is that they’re constantly changing up the menu. Rest assured that, whether you’re drinking amidst the taxidermy at the super-cool brewery bar or picking some up for home use, you will have flavors to satisfy the tastes of people who like literally any kind of beer – and maybe even those who insist they don’t like beer at all. 726 NE 2nd Ave., invasivespeciesbrewing.com
Runners Up: Laser Wolf, Craft Beer Cellar
Best Brewery
Funky Buddha Brewery
The South Florida local beer OG continues to go strong and not rest on its laurels. Sure, the Oakland Park brewery is now a legitimate regional contender that’s in supermarkets and liquor stores. But they still do fun seasonal favorites, some consistent mainstays – and they offer a great night out, complete with good food and a chill atmosphere – at their Oakland Park world HQ. 1201 NE 38th St., Oakland Park, 954.440.0046, funkybuddhabrewery.com
Runners Up: Invasive Species Brewing, Yeasty Brews
The Best Place to People Watch
Chops + Hops
702 NE 1st Ave., 954.247.1687, chopsandhopsfl.com
Runners Up: Elbo Room, The Wharf Fort Lauderdale
Best Burger
Billy’s Curbside Grill
Technically a food truck but essentially the kitchen for Invasive Species Brewing, Billy’s Curbside does fat, drool-worthy sandwiches. The whole menu’s worth a visit; the burger’s a proper napkin-requiring two-hander. 726 NE 2nd Ave.
Runners Up: BurgerFi, BRGR STOP
Best Bar
Backyard
When you live in paradise, who needs to go inside? The expansive patio bar with bar games, a perpetual college game-day atmosphere, cool drinks and bar food (try the Buffalo pierogis) is a place where the party’s always happening. 100 SW 3rd Ave., 954.449.1025, backyardftl.com
Runners Up: Chops + Hops, Elbo Room
Best Food Truck/Pop-Up Vendor
Billy’s Curbside Grill
726 NE 2nd Ave.
Runners Up: The Greek, Kamari Ramen
Best Farmers Market
Yellow Green Farmers Market
This isn’t a farmers market as much as it’s a culinary world journey. There are cafes and even bars inside the market, so you’re not just having a grocery shop, you’re having a day out. 3080 Sheridan St., Hollywood, 954.513.3990, ygfarmersmarket.com
Runners Up: Las Olas Oceanside Park Farmers Market,
Sunny Side Up Market
Best Seafood Market
Fish Peddler East
It’s not a big place, but don’t let that fool you. They’ve been doing this for a lot of years; they’ve got contacts and personal relationships with some of the best suppliers and fishermen around. The result is freshness and quality. 2805 E Commercial Blvd., 954.491.1441, fishpeddlere.com
Runners Up: Finster Murphy’s, Sea Salt Fish Market
Best Irish Pub
Waxy’s Irish Pub
A stop on any SE 17th Street pub crawl, this longtime favorite works for your good beer, Irish food and live music needs. 1095 SE 17th St., 954.525.9299, waxyspub.com
Runners Up: The Field Irish Pub & Eatery, Con Murphy’s
Best Cuban Restaurant
Padrino’s
A Miami favorite that’s come north, Padrino’s shows you don’t have to drive to the 305 to get its flavors. 1135 N Federal Hwy., 954.210.8989, padrinos.com
Runners Up: 925 Nuevo’s Cubano’s, Las Vegas Cuban Cuisine
Best Latin Restaurant
La Bamba
1901 Cordova Rd., 954.306.3746, labamba123.com
Runners Up: Padrino’s, El Guanaco
Best Healthy Restaurant
Myapapaya
Smoothies, bowls, juice cleanses, even burgers made with bison meat (it’s leaner, you know) – Myapapaya offers healthy options for all your taste buds. 1040 Bayview Dr., 954.338.5651, myapapaya.com
Runners Up: Vale Food Co, Green Bar & Kitchen
Best Ice Cream
Jaxson’s Ice Cream Parlor & Restaurant
The don, the godfather, the OG purveyor of frozen treats – there can be only one. The Dania Beach institution has been doing its thing since 1956; it’s a proper slice of South Florida history that, as a bonus, will help you destroy that diet. If you’re feeling ambitious, the Original Kitchen Sink (one pound of ice cream per person, piled high with toppings and, um, sparklers, served in an actual sink designed by founder Monroe Udell) is not just a dessert, it’s an accomplishment. 128 S Federal Hwy., Dania Beach, 954.923.4445, jaxsonsicecream.com
Runners Up: Wilton Creamery, Chill-N Nitrogen Ice Cream
Best Diner
Lester’s Diner
Is it complicated? Nope. Is it health food? Also no. Has it been there forever for a reason? Oh yes it absolutely has. 250 FL-84, 954.525.5641, lestersdiner.com
Runners Up: The Floridan Restaurant, Top Hat Deli
Best Breakfast
Top Hat Deli
Old-school deli favorites get a top-shelf treatment here. Personally we’re torn between the meat omelette, the Good Morning Ramen and the Grand Schlam. That last one is two eggs, a latke and choice of pastrami, corned beef, bacon or maple syrup. 415 NE 3rd St., 954.900.3896, tophatftl.com
Runners Up: Java & Jam, O-B House
Best Vegetarian/Vegan Restaurant
Green Bar & Kitchen
For a fun time, take someone who’s skeptical about vegetarian and vegan food to Green Bar & Kitchen. Let them sample the flavors, including the amazing burger, and don’t tell them. Let them find out how amazing vegetarian and vegan food can be. 1075 SE 17th St., 954.533.7507, greenbarkitchen.com
Runners Up: SoBe Vegan, The Rabbit Hole
Best Coffee
Wells Coffee Company
They know their coffee at Wells, and it’s prepared properly, but without pretention. They can recommend you a blend by flavor profile – you do you, but we go for a floral Baker Chocolate. They sell in bags, in bulk or to have in at their stylish Flagler Village premises. 737 NE 2nd Ave., 954.982.2886, wellscoffees.com
Runners Up: Circle House Coffee, Ann’s Florist & Coffee Bar
Best Pizza
Bob Dough Pizza Parlor
This pop-up pizza place pops up in some of Fort Lauderdale’s coolest spots with its signature square pizzas. (They also do round.) 954.652.1545, facebook.com/bobdoughpizza
Runners Up: Heritage, Luigi’s Coal Oven Pizza
Best Deli
Top Hat Deli
415 NE 3rd St., 954.900.3896, tophatftl.com
Runners Up: New York Marina Deli, Pomperdale
Best Wine Shop
Small Wine Shop
This Flagler Village wine shop specializes in natural, organic, and biodynamic wines. Knowledgeable staffers can explain the products to you and are expert at pairing to your taste. 410 N Andrews Ave., 954.999.0127, smallwineshop.com
Runners Up: Fort Liquordale Wine & Spirits, Primos
Best Market
The Flamingo Flea
This roving flea market has a regular presence inside Small Wine Shop and frequently appears at places such as Tarpon River Brewing. It’s fun, funky and so, so supportive of the local creative community. 401 N Andrews Ave., flamingoflea.com
Runners Up: A Cut Above Butcher & Provisions, Doris Italian Market
Best Italian Restaurant
Scolapasta Bistro and Pasta Shop
3358 NE 33rd St., 954.652.1185, scolapastabistro.com
Runners Up: Louie Bossi’s, Casa D’Angelo
Best Barbecue Restaurant
Smoke BBQ
Come get your Kansas City on at the place where they know how to cook it slow and low. For a real treat stop in on a Friday evening when they do the burnt ends. 3351 NE 32nd St., 954.530.5334, eatsmokebbq.com
Runners Up: Tom Jenkins, Holy Mackerel/Danny’s BBQ
Best Caribbean Restaurant
Calypso Restaurant & Raw Bar
This tucked away Pompano gem quietly puts out some of the best seafood around. Its unpretentious quality makes it a perennial locals favorite. 460 S Cypress Rd., Pompano Beach, 954.942.1633, calypsorestaurant.com
Runners Up: Dutch Pot, Tabanka
Best French Restaurant
Escargot Bistro
Cosy and charming, Escargot does all the French staples you’d want. We’ll take the savory crepe menu followed by the sweet crepe menu any day. 1506 E Commercial Blvd., 754.206.4116, escargotbistro.com
Runners Up: La Bonne Crepe, Rendez-Vous French Bakery & Bistro
Best Fruit Bowls/Smoothies
Myapapaya
1040 Bayview Dr., 954.338.5651, myapapaya.com
Runners Up: Playa Bowls, TropiBowls
Best Sub/Sandwich
Laspada’s Original Hoagies
Impossible to hold with one hand, frequently impossible to finish in one sitting, always worth the trip. 1495 SE 17th St., 954.522.3483, laspadashoagies.com
Runners Up: Henry’s Sandwich Station, Outside the Box Food Truck
Best Pet-Friendly Restaurant
S3-Sun Surf Sand
It’s a great place for humans, and this oceanfront restaurant’s ocean-facing outdoor area is also a welcome place for your pooch. 505 N Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd., Suite S, 954.523.7873, s3restaurant.com
Runners Up: Quarterdeck, Coconuts
Best Meal Prep Service
Outside the Box Food Truck
A food truck and catering service with a wide range of specialties, they can do all the sandwiches, paninis, wraps and more that you need. Food truck serving Broward County area, 561.314.5353, outsidetheboxfoodtruck.com
Runners Up: Farm to Fork Meals, Fitlife Foods
Best Seafood
Southport Raw Bar & Restaurant
Plenty of new contenders have come in over the years, but this veteran establishment continues to be a perennial favorite. Nestled in with several other proper Lauderdale legends off SE 17th Street, Southport will sort you out with oysters, clams, conch, grouper – basically, all the staples of a good Lauderdale diet. They’ve been known to serve a beverage or two as well. 1536 Cordova Rd., 954.525.2526, southportrawbar.com
Runners Up: Coconuts, Lobster Bar Sea Grill
Best Japanese Restaurant
Takato
High-end Japanese-Korean fusion at the elegant Conrad Hotel, this is a place that elevates the Fort Lauderdale Asian culinary experience. 551 N Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd., 954.414.5160, takatorestaurant.com
Runners Up: Phat Boy Sushi Kitchen & Bar, Casa Sensei
Best Greek Restaurant
Greek Islands Taverna
Festive, traditional and so, so tasty, it’s easy to see why this Galt Ocean Mile mainstay remains popular with the South Florida Greek community, and so many others. 3300 N Ocean Blvd., 954.565.5505, greekislandstaverna.com
Runners Up: Ethos Greek Bistro, Thasos
Best Chinese Restaurant
Christina Wan’s
This established Victoria Park favorite serves up traditional American Chinese restaurant fare in comfortable, stylish surrounds. 664 N Federal Hwy., 954.527.0228, christinawans.com
Runners Up: Rainbow Palace, Lotus Chinese Kitchen
Best Chicken Wings
Wilton Wings
This longtime wing stop features can’t-miss murals and inside, some tasty wings. 1428 NE 4th Ave., 954.462.9696, wiltonwingsandpizza.com
Runners Up: Wings Plus, Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza
Best Specialty Burger
BRGR STOP
The burger geniuses at BRGR STOP continue pushing the boundaries of what can go on a burger. Meatballs? Blueberry jalapeno jam? Literal peanut butter? That and more. But whisper it, the basic burger’s really good too. 1930 E Sunrise Blvd., 954.533.8621, brgrstop.com
Runners Up: Billy’s Curbside Grill, The Butcher’s Barrel
Best Beachfront Restaurant
Con Murphy’s Ocean Bar & Grill
Irish pub, American bar food, Fort Lauderdale beach – what’s not to love? 17 S Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd., 954.686.2699, conmurphysfl.com
Runners Up: S3-Sun Surf Sand, Dune
Best Rooftop Lounge
Rooftop @1WLO
From happy hour to brunch to the place’s many too-cool-for-school events, this is a place to get literally above the fray with some of the coolest times in downtown. 1 W Las Olas Blvd., 954.523.1956, rooftop1wlo.com
Runners Up: Sparrow, Pier Sixty-Six Rooftop Lounge
Best Philly Cheesesteak
Wicked Cheesesteaks, Pizza & Wings
Sure you could go to Philly for your Philly Cheesesteak, but then you might have to deal with Eagles fans. Stick to Federal Highway, where Wicked Cheesesteaks makes them big, cheesy and juicy. 4824 N Federal Hwy., 954.616.8716, wickedrestaurants.com
Runners Up: Original Fat Cats, Sonny’s Famous Steak Hogies
Best Peruvian Restaurant
Bravo Peruvian Cuisine
Peruvian food is hot right now, but Bravo is based on quality more than trends. There’s a ceviche menu, a Japanese/Peruvian sushi roll menu, many interesting meats and even the all-day-breakfast Desayuno Criollo, a Peruvian pork dish. 2925 NE 6th Ave., Wilton Manors, 954.533.4350, bravoperuviankitchen.com
Runners Up: SuViche, Kousine
Best Sports Bar
Bokampers Sports Bar & Grill
Forget everything you know about sports bars. The Bokampers menu is a diverse, properly foodie affair that even includes quality sushi. There’s good drinks and cocktails – and oh yeah, TVs showing every game you could want. Broadcaster and former Dolphin Kim Bokamper’s spot is the perfect place to watch Tua and co. on a ‘Fins Sunday afternoon. 3115 NE 32nd Ave., 954.900.5584, bokampers.com
Runners Up: Quarterdeck, Duffy’s Sports Grill
Best Caterer
Hugh’s Catering
Whether it’s a wedding or another big event, Hugh’s has earned a reputation as the go-to caterer for almost any menu needs. They’re so good at what they do that they even run a culinary summer camp where they teach the chefs of tomorrow how to do it. 4351 NE 12th Terr., Oakland Park, 954.563.4844, hughscatering.com
Runners Up: Outside the Box, Monroe’s Street Food Kitchen
Best Cake Designer
Sweeter Days Bake Shop
Cakes, cupcakes, cookies, all in fanciful colors and a variety of flavors. Sweeter Days is fun, creative and so, so tasty. 1497 N Federal Hwy., 954.396.3979, sweeterdaysbakeshop.com
Runners Up: We Take The Cake, Stork’s Bakery & Coffee House
Best Happy Hour
YOT Bar & Kitchen
If you’re in Fort Lauderdale, what better happy hour is there than a happy hour amongst the big boats? This spot located dockside in Lauderdale Marine Center offers great drink deals – and some of the coolest views around. 2015 SW 20th St., 954.953.9000, yotlmc.com
Runners Up: El Camino, Bodega
Best Kids Menu
Quarterdeck
2933 E Las Olas Blvd., 954.525.2010, quarterdeckrestaurants.com
Runners Up: Coconuts, Flanigan’s
Best Restaurant with Customer Service
Takato
551 N Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd., 954.414.5160, takatorestaurant.com
Runners Up: Eddie V’s, Top Hat Deli
Best Chocolate Shop
Hoffman’s Chocolates
This longtime South Florida chocolatier always goes all out at the holiday season. But all year round, they’ve got the most delectable confections on Las Olas and elsewhere. 601 E Las Olas Blvd., 954.368.4320, hoffmans.com
Runners Up: Jan’s Homemade Candies, Jimmie’s Chocolates & Cafe
Best Taco
TacoCraft
Everything from Korean short ribs to mushroom confit to pork belly to Impossible vegan meat goes into this taqueria’s excellent creations. And it’s always worth checking out the taco of the month. 510 N Federal Hwy., 754.779.7437, tacocraft.com
Runners Up: Bodega Taqueria y Tequila, El Camino
Best Asian Restaurant
Casa Sensei
The Latin-Asian fusion spot is one of the few places right on the main drag of Las Olas that also offers water views thanks to its canalside location, but the main event remains the stylishly modern menu. 1200 E Las Olas Blvd., STE. 101, 954.530.4176, casasensei.com
Runners Up: Takato, Phat Boy Sushi, Kitchen & Bar
Best Chef
Chef Edric Dibbel of Monroe’s Street Food Kitchen
Chef Edric cooks up some of the best Southern seafood and other downhome goodness around. Catch his food truck where you can, it’s worth it. Oh, and try the famous hush puppies. 4501 SW 44th Ave., Oakland Park, 954.562.5114
Runners Up: Chef Josie Smith-Malave at Bubbles and Pearls, Chef Anthony Prestan at Scolapasta
Best Take-Out
The Poke House
Poke’s a tasty, healthy, portable food, so it’s no wonder it’s remained popular since taking off here several years ago. Restaurateur Memphis Garrett’s Victoria Park spot has become a favorite purveyor of the Hawaiian staple. 666 N Federal Hwy., 754.200.4555, pointbreakpokehouse.com
Runners Up: Monroe’s Street Food Kitchen, Sushi 1 Take Out
Best Whiskey Bar
Whiskey Neat
A wall of whiskey. A literal wall. And bartenders who know both where all the whiskeys are on the wall and what to do with them? If you like your liquors dark and flavorful, this is a spot where you can spend some time. 1035 SE 17th St., 954.524.6163, whiskeyneatfl.com
Runners Up: Chops + Hops, Apothecary 330
Shopping
Best Jeweler
Daoud’s Fine Jewelry
Custom piece, timepieces and a broad array of fine jewelery are on offer. 2473 E Sunrise Blvd., 954.565.2734, daouds.com
Runners Up: Argenti, Beverly’s Jewelers
Best Florist
Ann’s Florist & Coffee Bar
This charming Las Olas oasis has bailed out many a suitor who, just about to arrive at some Las Olas restaurant date, realized he needed flowers. It’s also a great coffeeshop café and a purveyor of creative little décor touches – an oasis of peace amid the Las Olas hubbub. 1001 E Las Olas Blvd., 954.761.3334, annsfloristlasolas.com
Runners Up: Flormosura, Victoria Park Flower Studio
Best Art Gallery
North Beach Art Gallery
North Beach is quickly becoming one of the city’s most interesting areas, and this gallery’s a big part of the reason why. Most notable is their collection of works by Art Deco artist Erté but really, the entire gallery’s worth a look. They also do custom framing. 3334 NE 34th St., 954.667.0660, nobegallery.com
Runners Up: New River Fine Art, MAC Fine Art
Best Home Decor Store
Ann’s Florist & Coffee Bar
1001 E Las Olas Blvd., 954.761.3334, annsfloristlasolas.com
Runners Up: Symmetry Home Elements, Cactus Flower
Also Check Out: Allied Kitchen & Bath
616 W Oakland Park Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311, 954.564.1611, alliedkitchenandbath.com
Best Music Store
Radio-Active Records
As Flagler Village shoots up around it, this defiantly local spot continues to champion local artists and give vinyl collectors a place to find what they need. 845 N Federal Hwy., 954.762.9488, radio-active-records.com
Runners Up: We Got the Beats, Penny Lane Emporium
Best Vintage/Consignment Store
Encore Interiors Consignment
Forget everything you know when you hear the words “consignment store.” This is elegant, upmarket shopping. 2300 S Federal Hwy., 954.727.5759, eiconsignment.com
Runners Up: OddBalls Nifty Thrift, Decades Design Group
Best Thrift Store
OddBalls Nifty Thrift
From the sublime to the mad, everything’s in OddBalls. Need a vintage clock? Dolphins merch? Eclectic yard statue? Rolling bar? You’ll just be getting warmed up at OddBalls. Oh, and for the thrift-shopping skeptic who likes a drink? They’ve got beer on tap. 530 NE 13th St., 754.422.7623
Runners Up: Poverello, American Thrift Store
Best Gift Store
The Wander Shop
Classily casual beachy bohemian, the Wander Shop has a look that’s both chic and totally Lauderdale. 3548 NE 12th Ave., Oakland Park, 954.368.4647, thewandershop.com
Runners Up: Ann’s Florist & Coffee Shop, Jezebel
Best Pet Groomer
Salon Bark
When your four-legged family member needs grooming, and maybe a bit of pampering, this Imperial Point pet salon takes care of it in style. 6274 N Federal Hwy., 954.491.1119, salonbark.com
Runners Up: Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming, Nick’s Grooming Studio
Best Doggie Daycare
The Barkers Pet Center
It’s an all-in-one doggo paradise with daycare, boarding, training and grooming. They’ve even got a regulars’ club that offers discounts. 761 SE 17th St., 954.888.2274, barkerspetcenter.com
Runners Up: Central Bark, D.O.G. Fort Lauderdale
Also Check Out: Salon Bark Spa & Boutique
6274 N Federal Hwy., Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308, 954.491.1119, salonbark.com
Best Garden Store/Nursery
Living Color Garden center
This sprawling nursery offers many Florida natives as well as a good line in eclectic outdoor furniture and art. And best of all, they’ve got the knowledgeable staff who can help you learn about what to plant, and when. 3691 FL-818, 954.985.8787, livingcolorgardencenter.net
Runners Up: Blu Bambu Home & Garden, GardenWorks
Best Surf Shop
BC Surf & Sport
Lauderdale surf legend Bruce Cromartie built an empire, and it’s one that’s now sorted out the needs of generations of local surfers, skateboarders and other pursuers of outdoor activities. Clothes, lifestyle products and of course, the perfect board are all on offer. 1701 N Federal Hwy., 954.564.0202, bcsurf.com
Runners Up: Surf World, Maui Nix
Best Boating/Fishing Store
Nautical Ventures Marine Center
Boats, kayaks, water toys – honestly, it would probably be easier to make a list of the water lifestyle products they don’t carry. And they know their stuff – talk to a salesperson and you’ll get what you need. 4470 Anglers Ave., 954.962.8702, nauticalventures.com
Runners Up: LMR Custom Rods & Tackle, Reel Deal Bait & Tackle
Best Woman’s Fashion Boutique
Green & Serene
Simple, chic, elegant but with a sexy Florida flair – Green & Serene brings a new, young vibe to Las Olas. And it all happens at price points that may pleasantly surprise you. 1012 E Las Olas Blvd., shopgreenandserene.com
Runners Up: The Wander Shop, Etiquette Boutique
Best Tailor
The Little Seamstress
This locally owned Oakland Park business does beautiful bespoke work for weddings and any other day as well. 311 NE 44th St., Oakland Park, 954.563.9892, thelittleseamstressinc.com
Runners Up: Needlestitch, The French Touch
Best Men’s Fashion Boutique
Marcello Sport Fort Lauderdale
With a wide selection of dress, casual and sports wear, Marcello Sport is the one-stop shop for the man who doesn’t want to hit up a half dozen different shops for his clothing needs. 3201 N Ocean Blvd., 954.616.5815, marcello-sport-fort-lauderdale.business.site
Runners Up: Maus & Hoffman, Pride Factory
Best Furniture Store
Decades Design Group
Fun, fabulous and retro, Decades has one-of-a-kind pieces that are perfectly suited to Fort Lauderdale’s signature Mid-Century Modern style – and so many other styles too. 1500 NE 4th Ave., 954.462.8560
Runners Up: Island City Traders, Scan Design
Best Bike Shop
Downtown Bicycles
This locally owned shop sells, rents and repairs bicycles. If your bike is a bit older or has some hard-to-find parts, they’re a good group to get on the case. 2571 E Sunrise Blvd., 754.265.7872, downtownbicycles.com
Runners Up: Conte’s Bike Shop, Trek Bicycle Store
Best Animal Shelter/Rescue
Humane Society of Broward County
If you want a new member of the family, please consider a pooch from the Humane Society. 2070 Griffin Rd., 954.463.4870, humanebroward.com
Runners Up: Good Karma Pet Rescue, Abandoned Pet Rescue
Best Lighting Store
Capitol Lighting
From commercial to home to outdoor, they create spaces that aren’t just well-lit, they’re safe and stylish. 1001 N Federal Hwy., 954.780.8230, 1800lighting.com
Runners Up: LBU Lighting, Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting
Local People & Personalities
Best Panthers Player
Aleksander Barkov
There have been so many false starts, but this Panthers team looks for real – and the Finnish center leads the way. nhl.com/panthers
Runners Up: Jonathan Huberdeau, Aaron Ekblad
Best Television Sportscaster
Steve Shapiro
The WSVN veteran has covered just about every big sporting event there is. His Sunday-night Sports Xtra will catch you up on all the Dolphins goings-on, as well as everything else in the world of sports. wsvn.com
Runners Up: Jeff Darlington, Jim Berry
Best News Anchorwoman
Kristin Sanchez
NBC6’s news and traffic anchor has seen plenty of Florida – she’s also worked in Tampa, Orlando and Fort Myers. We’re glad this is where she landed. nbcmiami.com
Runners Up: Kristi Krueger, Roxanne Vargas
Best News Anchorman
Louis Aguirre
Louis’ varied career has taken him to Telemundo, Fox & Friends, A Current Affair and Deco Drive. The chisel-jawed anchor can now be seen on WPLG Local 10 News. local10.com
Runners Up: Craig Stevens, Eliott Rodriguez
Best Morning News Anchorman
Eric Yutzy
Before coming to South Florida, much of Eric’s career was in sports journalism. He shows off his news chops here, however, as a WPLG Local 10 News anchor and reporter. local10.com
Runners Up: Calvin Hughes, Enrique Santos
Best Television Meteorologist/Male
Phil Ferro
Cuban-born, Miami-raised Ferro touched the hearts of WSVN 7 viewers when he publicly battled and beat throat cancer several years ago. He’s there during hurricane season and when South Floridians need him most. wsvn.com
Runners Up: Luke Dorris, John Morales
Best Morning TV Show
The Today Show
NBC6 South Florida provides a great local component to the popular national morning show. today.com
Runners Up: CBS, WSVN News
Best Television Meteorologist/Female
Betty Davis
WPLG’s chief certified meteorologist has a career that includes stops at CNN Headline News and the Weather Channel. She’s also an avid education supporter who loves visiting local schools to talk about meteorology. local10.com
Runners Up: Vivian Gonzalez, Julie Durda
Best Television News Reporter/Male
Layron Livingston
The native Texan calls himself a passionate storyteller. You can witness that passion mornings and midday on Local News 10. local10.com
Runners Up: Alex Browning, Christian De La Rosa
Best Television News Reporter/Female
Constance Jones
A South Florida TV news veteran, Constance returned in 2021 after several years away. We’re glad to have her back! nbcmiami.com
Runners Up: Kristin Sanchez, Kelly Blanco
Best Morning Radio Show
The Paul Castronovo Show on Big 105.9
Our friend Paulie’s a bona fide radio legend. Whether it’s talking about where to get dinner in South Florida, having a take on the news of the day or reminiscing about a concert at the Sportatorium, Paul’s our guy. big1059.iheart.com
Runners Up: Elvis Duran, Kenny Walker
Best Morning TV Show
The Today Show
NBC6 South Florida provides a great local component to the popular national morning show. today.com
Runners Up: CBS, WSVN News
Best Local Lifestyle Blog
The Lauderdale Local
This tenacious, passionate food blog lets you know new places to try – and also stays on top of who’s offering the best deals. thelauderdalelocal.com
Runners Up: LauderBabe, Florida Date Night
Best Local Fashion Designer
Veli Borisova – Labeled Bohemian
With everything from beachwear to properly elegant evening wear, Veli offers something cool and fresh for every part of the Lauderdale lifestyle. labeledbohemian.com
Runners Up: Jypsea Local, Alexandra Grief – Montce Swim
Best Photographer
Max Riehn, Maxson Media
With everything from travel and lifestyle photography to portraiture to product photography, Reihn can take his camera into any situation. maxsonmedia.com
Runners Up: Alex Smythe, Graciela Valdes Fine Art Photography
Best Local News Station
Channel 10
Whether it’s their investigations into big local stories like the Surfside condo collapse, work like the Food for Thought food insecurity campaign or just the business of finding the day’s news, Channel 10 is on top of their game. local10.com
Runners Up: Channel 7, Channel 6
Best Lawyer
Darren Heitner
The sports law and copyright law expert has found himself involved in many high-profile cases and has become an important voice in his field. darrenheitner.com
Runners Up: Justin Nepola, Blake Doleman
Best Restaurateur
Denise Silvano – Scolapasta Bistro and Pasta Shop
3358 NE 33rd St., 954.652.1185, scolapastabistro.com
Runners Up: Rosario Argentino – Mickey Dueling Pianos, Tim Petrillo – The Restaurant People
Best Male Athlete
Jimmy Butler
Since coming to the Heat in 2019, Butler has led a team that many thought would fall by the wayside. A leader and a triple-double master, he’s the veteran behind the rising team. nba.com/heat
Runners Up: Jimmy Kearse, Sean Spire
Best Female Athlete
Hannah Eden
The fitness industry pro has worked with workout brands such as NordicTrac, Lululemon and Reebok. hannahedenfitness.com
Runners Up: Eva Orlando, Ashley Parks
Best Dolphins Player
Tua Tagovailoa
Hey, remember that 20 years we’ve spent looking for a longterm Dolphins quarterback? Well, good news. miamidolphins.com
Runners Up: Xavien Howard, DeVante Parker
Best Marlins Player
Sandy Alcantara
It would be great to see the all-star get more run support, but he has emerged into an exciting young team’s ace. mlb.com/marlins
Runners Up: Trevor Rogers, Starling Marte
Best Influencer
@tourwithteddy
Follow a Maltese and its dog-mom as they find fabulous places and have adventures. livingafairytail.com
Runners Up: @southflorida_teddybear, @Lauderbabe
Best Local Hero
Governor Ron Desantis
We’re not election-predicting pollsters, but we can tell you that the governor definitely got some Best Of votes. Fort Lauderdale Magazine readers are fans of what the governor is doing. flgov.com
Runners Up: Dan Marino, Chris Mitchell
Best Band
Tasty Vibrations
A bit jam band, a bit reggae and all Florida, Tasty Vibrations are one of the most fun live shows you’ll experience. facebook.com/tastyvibrations
Runners Up: The Copper Tones, Private Stock Band
Best Videographer
DukesAllDay, Michael Cunniff
If it’s luxury, Cunniff knows how to sell and market it. Your brand will get in front of the eyes it needs to be in front of with packaging that makes it memorable. 200 SW 1st Ave., 305.209.3666, thesuperagency.com
Runners Up: Dylan Hughes, Maxson Reihn
Best Floridian
Governor Ron Desantis
Runners Up: Captain Lee Rosbach, Lifeguard Jim McCrady
Best Talk Show Host
Supa Cindy
The 99Jamz presenter also raises money and looks after the community through her Supa Friends organization, which offers a number of programs for South Florida’s underserved communities. supacindy.com
Runners Up: Joe Rose, Kavita Channe
Best DJ
DJ Mike Locke
Whether performing at some of South Florida’s biggest venues or producing rock and electronic music, Locke brings the beats. djmikelocke.com
Runners Up: DJ Project XL, DJ Tandim
Best Local Radio Station
Y100.7
From morning legend Elvis Duran to hot young DJ Frankie P at night, Y100 brings the cool vibes and all today’s hits. y100.iheart.com
Runners Up: 102.7 The Beach, 104.3 The Shark
Places
Best Tour
Water Taxi
The yellow boats offer one of the most uniquely Fort Lauderdale experiences out there. They’re great for when visitors are in from out of town – but you don’ t need the excuse of tourists to buy a day ticket and hop on and off a service that hits all the big Lauderdale going-out areas. 954.467.6677, watertaxi.com
Runners Up: Paddle Pub, Bonnet House
Best Vacation Rental/Airbnb
Fort Lauderdale Stays
If you’ve got guests coming into town and you want them to stay near you, you can, among other features, search the company’s properties by neighborhood. 1706 NE 19th St., 754.701.5660, fortlauderdalestays.com
Runners Up: The Guest House Collection, Lago Mar Beach Club and Resort
Best College/University
Nova Southeastern University
NSU keeps getting noticed. From the budding entrepreneurs emerging from the H. Wayne Huizenga School of Business and Entrepreneurship to the high-profile marine research being done at the Halmos College of Natural Sciences and Oceanography to the growing and developing Davie main campus, the NSU Sharks are on the move. 3301 College Ave., 800.541.6682, nova.edu
Runners Up: Florida Atlantic University, University of Miami
Best Place To Take Kids
Magic Playhouse
Started by a former teacher, this creative space gives small children a place and the creativity to play. It’s great for birthday parties, other events or just fun days out with the little ones. 2824 E Commercial Blvd., 954.256.6119
Runners Up: Museum of Discovery & Science, Fort Lauderdale Beach
Best Local Concert Venue
Revolution Live
In the heart of Himmarshee, Revolution Live brings touring acts, local bands and all-around good times. 100 SW 3rd Ave., 954.449.1025, jointherevolution.net
Runners Up: Stage 954 – Casino at Dania Beach
Broward Center for the Performing Arts
Best Music Festival
Tortuga
The biggest names in country and rock, all on Fort Lauderdale Beach? Gotta be Tortuga. 1100 Seabreeze Blvd., tortugamusicfestival.com
Runners Up: Rip Tide
Sun Fest
Best Arts/Crafts Festival
Art Festival on Las Olas
The street shuts down and the art comes out. 600 E Las Olas Blvd., lasolasboulevard.com
Runners Up: Flamingo Flea
Art Walk in FATVillage
Best Swimming Pool/Park
International Swimming Hall of Fame
Have you seen it since the big renovation? A local landmark has been improved and made modern, insuring a place that’s mattered to generations of Fort Lauderdale residents will continue to be relevant and fun. 1 Hall of Fame Dr., 954.462.6536, ishof.org
Runners Up: Quiet Waters Park, Bahia Mar Pool
Best Place to Volunteer
Bowtie Kids
A diverse array of programs, including their Bowtie Gardens, are provided for kids with chronic pain. 1881 NE 26th St., Suite 70, Wilton Manors, 888.884.9195, bowtiekids.org
Runners Up: Jack & Jill Children’s Center, Children’s Diagnostic and Treatment Center
Best Nightclub
The Hub Spark
The MASS District is becoming a place to go on more than just ArtWalk nights, and this stylish spot is a big part of the reason why. 828 NE 4th Ave., 954.281.2350
Runners Up: Hunter’s, SWAY Nightclub
Best Outdoor Space
Las Olas Oceanside Park
The new park offers communal spaces, event spaces and a spot that is truly the community’s. 3000 E Las Olas Blvd., 954.299.6000, fortlauderdale.gov
Runners Up: Fort Lauderdale Beach, Park and Ocean
Best Park
Hugh Taylor Birch State Park
Our urban oasis has a fun bar and restaurant, beach and Intracoastal access and a big slice of Old Florida maritime hammock landscape in the midst of the city. 3109 E Sunrise Blvd., 954.564.4521, floridastateparks.org/HughTaylorBirch
Runners Up: Holiday Park, Las Olas Oceanside Park
Best Movie Theater
AMC Coral Ridge
Built in the 1980s, AMC Coral Ridge has been reborn in recent years as Fort Lauderdale’s only dine-in movie theater. 3401 NE 26th Ave., 954.566.9666, amctheatres.com
Runners Up: Gateway Theater, Museum of the Discovery & Science IMAX
Best Event
Tye Dye & Tequila
The event at Backyard featured … well, there’s a clue in the name. facebook.com/jetsocialco
Runners Up: GFL Food Wine Festival, Fur the Love Pet Fest
Best Museum
NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale
From it’s interesting temporary exhibitions – did you catch Anna Sui earlier this year? – to its excellent permanent collection, this cultural landmark makes Fort Lauderdale better. And who doesn’t love a café and fun shop? 1 E Las Olas Blvd., 954.525.5500, nsuartmuseum.org
Runners Up: Museum of the Discovery & Science, Fort Lauderdale Art Museum
Best Dog Park
Bark Park at Snyder Park
Give your pooch a runaround, then let them take a dip in the doggo swimming lake. It’s a little slice of dog-friendly nature just north of the airport. 3299 SW 4th Ave., 954.828.4585, fortlauderdale.gov
Runners Up: Holiday Park, Happy Trails Dog Park
Best Bridge
E Clay Shaw Jr Bridge – 17th Street Causeway
You learn a lot about yourself, and your calves, if you try to take this beast on a bicycle. From the top, it also offers great views of the port, the beach, downtown – basically, everything we are. fortlauderdale.gov
Runners Up: 11th Ave Swing Bridge, Las Olas
Best Playground
Florence C Hardy Park & Southside Cultural Center
Nestled near the community events at the old Southside School, Hardy Park offers a modern, safe playground with amenities for the whole family. 25 SW 9th St., 954.828.7275, fortlauderdale.gov
Runners Up: Bayview Park, Holiday Park
Best Place To Watch The Sunset
Coconuts
With its big west-facing patio by the Intracoastal, Coconuts is the place to go for a meal and a beverage at the sunset hour. 429 Seabreeze Blvd., 954.525.2421, coconutsfortlauderdale.com
Runners Up: Everglades Holiday Park, Shooters
Best Hotel
Lago Mar Beach Club and Resort
Not only is it a fantastic stay for tourists, it’s a top staycation location and a favorite spot for locals thanks to its always-popular club. 1700 S Ocean Ln., 954.523.6511, lagomar.com
Runners Up: Fort Lauderdale Marriott Harbor Beach Resort & Spa, W Fort Lauderdale
Best Elementary/Middle School
Bethany Christian School
The Rio Vista Christian school offers a safe, family-oriented environment and sends its students to some of the area’s best high schools. 615 SE 9th St., 954.522.2554, bcsftl.org
Runners Up: Bayview Elementary School, Pine Crest School
Best High School
St. Thomas Aquinas High School
The theater is professional-grade, the football team’s on national television and they turn out National Merit Scholars, Silver Knight Award winners and pretty much every other marker of academic and all-around excellence you could think of. It’s good to be a Raider. 2801 SW 12th St., 954.581.0700, aquinas-sta.org
Runners Up: Cardinal Gibbons, Pine Crest
Best Luxury Condo Building
Sunrise Harbor Luxury Apartment Building
1030 Seminole Dr., 954.667.6700, sunriseharborftlauderdale.com
Runners Up: Auberge Residences, Las Olas Grand
Best Date Night
Chops + Hops
702 NE 1st Ave., 954.247.1687, chopsandhopsfl.com
Runners Up: Ann’s Florist & Coffee Bar, Wine & Garden
Best Building
Sunrise Harbor Luxury Apartment Building
With dock space, two swimming pools, two- and three-bedroom apartments and penthouses off the Intracoastal and Sunrise Boulevard, this is Lauderdale living at its finest. 1030 Seminole Dr., 954.667.6700, sunriseharborftlauderdale.com
Runners Up: 4 West Las Olas, KenAnn Building
Best Mural
Avian Odyssey by Ernesto Maranje at Port Everglades
Harbormaster towers are usually fairly functional buildings, but the one at the port has some color and flair thanks to Maranje’s vibrant bird. 1850 Eller Dr., 954.523.3404, porteverglades.net
Runners Up: The Wander Shop, American Flag by AAKABO at Chops + Hops
Best Oceanfront Wedding Venue
Fort Lauderdale Marriott Harbor Beach Resort & Spa
At the southern end of Fort Lauderdale Beach, close to everything yet tucked away from the busiest bits, the Marriott Harbor Beach offers urbane style with secluded beach charm. 3030 Holiday Dr., 954.525.4000, marriott.com
Runners Up: The Grateful Palate Catering & Events, The Pelican Grand Hotel
Best Classic Wedding Venue
Home2 Suites by Hilton Pompano Beach Pier
Pompano Beach has managed to evolve without losing its old Florida charm, and this beach hotel offers upmarket flair while also giving some of the beach town vibe Pompano is known for. 200 N Ocean Blvd., Pompano Beach, 954.943.2525, hilton.com
Runners Up: The Bonnet House, Fort Lauderdale Marriott Harbor Beach Resort & Spa
Best Nonprofit Fundraiser
Jack & Jill Children’s Center – Flip Flops on the Dock
The Fort Lauderdale Yacht Club event raises money for the Jack & Jill Center, which helps with early education and other crucial areas for children of high-need parents. 1315 W Broward Blvd., 954.463.8772, jackandjillcenter.org
Runners Up: South Florida Wildlife Center, Children’s Diagnostic & Treatment Center’s Ribbons for the Children Art Auction
Best Place To Work
Chops + Hops
702 NE 1st Ave., 954.247.1687, chopsandhopsfl.com
Runners Up: Tippy Fort Lauderdale, General Provision
Best Girls Night Out
Chops + Hops
702 NE 1st Ave., 954.247.1687, chopsandhopsfl.com
Runners Up: Ann’s Florist & Coffee Bar, Pier 6 Rooftop Lounge
Best Kids Camp
Camp Live Oak
This longstanding family favorite offers a little bit of everything – traditional outdoor games, science and nature – at prime local spots like Hugh Taylor Birch State Park and Dr. Von Mizell – Eula Johnson State Park. 2300 E Oakland Park Blvd., #207, 954.563.4880, campliveoakfl.com
Runners Up: Summersational at Rio Vista Church, Funky Fish Camp
Best Place To Book A Staycation
Home2 Suites by Hilton Pompano Beach Pier
200 N Ocean Blvd., Pompano Beach, 954.943.2525, hilton.com
Runners Up: Fort Lauderdale Marriott Harbor Beach Resort & Spa, Pelican Grand Beach Resort
Most Unique Night Out
Chops + Hops
702 NE 1st Ave., 954.247.1687, chopsandhopsfl.com
Runners Up: Pier 6 Rooftop Lounge, Wreck Bar a B Ocean Hotel
Most Instagrammable Place
The Wander Shop
3548 NE 12th Ave., Oakland Park, 954.368.4647, thewandershop.com
Runners Up: Pier 6 Rooftop Lounge, The Wharf Fort Lauderdale
Health & Beauty
Best Wellness Therapy or Medical Spa
The Botox Lady
She’s the lady with the answer to your Botox needs. 918 NE 26th Ave., 833.352.6869, thebotoxlady.com
Runners Up: XL Physical Therapy & Sports Rehab, VIDA Integrative Medicine
Best Dermatologist
Mark Bernhardt, MD
For more than three decades, the Yale graduate has been one of Fort Lauderdale’s
most trusted dermatologists. In the Florida sun, his work is vital. 1601 E Broward Blvd., 954.463.3421, browardcodermatology.com
Runners Up: Jerome R. Obed, DO; Z Roc
Best Dentist
JJ Dental
Everything from cleanings, root canals and partials and dentures to cosmetic dentistry, Invisalign, whitening and more is on offer here. 30 NE 3rd St., 954.463.7262, jjdentalpractice.com
Runners Up: Max Zaslavsky, Dr. Patty Dental Boutique and Spa
Best Vet
Gentle Care Animal Hospital
Your four-legged family member is in good hands at this hospital that covers all major veterinary needs. 1020 E Broward Blvd., 954.524.1111, gentle-hospital.edan.io
Runners Up: Victoria Park Animal Hospital, Southpoint Animal Hospital
Best Doctor
Dr. Hector Di Carlo, MD
The Broward Health family physician provides peace of mind, something that we’ve all come to value in these times. 500 SE 17th St. 954.533.1173
Runners Up: Dr. William A Leone, Dr. John Limperis
Best Personal Trainer
Justin Ancona of Elevate 954
Ancona has worked with all sorts of clients including adults, kids, people affected by paraplegia and others. He’s thorough and experienced, and he tailors workout plans to your needs. 3400 SW 26th Terr., 954.530.2328, elevate.fitness
Runners Up: Luck Pericles of Lucksfitness co, Mariah Veira of Elevate954
Best Physical Therapist
XL Physical Therapy & Sports Rehab
You don’t have to live with pain. Whether it’s a longstanding injury or a minor but persistent pain, XL gives big results. 2001 NE 48th St., 954.491.6620, xlphysicaltherapy.com
Runners Up: Aries Physical Therapy, Phisycal Therapy Group of Florida
Best Pain Management Office
Anthony Giuffrida, MD
Spinal surgery is a thing to be avoided whenever possible, as are potentially addictive painkillers. Dr. Giuffrida uses a mixture of treatments to ensure that last-resort treatments are just that. 3000 Bayview Dr., 954.567.1332, cantorspinecenter.com
Runners Up: American Pain Experts, Dr Neel Amin
Best Hair Implant Specialist
Natural Transplants Hair Restoration Clinic
Their high-yield unit extraction process means natural, thick restoration. 2601 E Oakland Park Blvd., #400, 954.372.8824, naturaltransplants.com
Runner Up: Chuck Alfieri
Best CrossFit
Flagler Village CrossFit
It’s not a big space, but it’s big enough to get the work in. This community-minded gym offers the full CrossFit experience. 405 NE 8th St.
754.399.1173, flaglervillagecrossfit.com
Runners Up: Aspire CrossFit, Fort Lauderdale CrossFit
Best Cycle Studio
Ride Element
They offer the full array of spin classes, including classes aimed at making you feel the burn, classes for strength and classes based around funky beats and a party atmosphere. 3496 NE 12th Ave., 954.280.7433, therideelement.com
Runners Up: Cycle Bar, Cycleward
Best Gym
Elevate 954
Circuit classes, interval training and even a class aimed specifically at getting that booty how you want it – you will absolutely elevate your game here. 3400 SW 26th Terr., 954.530.2328, elevate.fitness
Runners Up: Pure Barre Fort Lauderdale, Powerhouse
Best Yoga/Pilates Studio
Club Pilates
The club offers nine different classes at four varied levels, at all times of day. So whatever your level or schedule, they’ve got something for you. 1489 SE 17th St., 954.440.8006, clubpilates.com
Runners Up: Yoga Joint, Sol Yoga
Best Orthodontist
Chris Freeman of Freeman Orthodontics
Formerly valedictorian of the University of Kentucky dental program, Dr. Freeman has more than 20 years experience in the field of making smiles right. 1825 NE 45th St., Ste. B, 954.772.1600, freemanortho.com
Runners Up: Ana Benedetti of Benedetti Orthodontics,
JJ Dental
Best Spa
The Skin Revival
Treatments include facial treatments, airbrush tanning and cryo body contouring – the sorts of services that will keep you looking your best in the Florida sun. 1672 SE 10th Ave., 954.908.5047, theskinrevival.com
Runners Up: Auberge Residences, Casbah Salon & Spa
Best Barbershop
Joe’s Barber Shop
Haircuts, hot shaves, beard trims, TVs showing the game – just a great all-around barbershop experience. 920 N Federal Hwy., 954.764.1960, joesbarbershopftl.com
Runners Up: Nobleman’s, Buck & Beard
Best Hair
Salon
Alexis Hair salon
Cuts, colors, up-dos, balayage, hair therapy – it’s all here no matter what you need. 3217 N Ocean Blvd., 954.425.2175, alexishairsalon.com
Runners Up: Hair Circus, Ka’Ton
Best Fitness Classes
Elevate 954
3400 SW 26th Terr., 954.530.2328, elevate.fitness
Runners Up: Pure Barre Fort Lauderdale, Club Pilates Studio
Best Place To Get Fillers/Injections
The Botox Lady
918 NE 26th Ave., 833.352.6869, thebotoxlady.com
Runners Up: Shino Bay, Liquidvida Lounge
Best Nail Salon
Floreana Nail Spa
An oasis of calm in Flagler Village, Floreana offers environmentally safe products and practices. They also offer a modern, new facility where relaxation is the order of the day. 274 N Federal Hwy., 954.870.5094, floreananails.com
Runners Up: Posh, Harbor Nails
Motors
Best Boat Dealer
HMY Yachts
Whether it’s something brand new, a pristine used yacht or a charter, HMY has every corner of the industry covered. 801 Seabreeze Blvd., Suite B, 954.650.3706, hmy.com
Runners Up: Nautical Ventures, Northrop & Johnson
Best Boat
Viking Yachts
They’re a bit less about pillage than their Viking namesakes. But these boatbuilders can take care of your needs whether for a luxury yacht or a serious deep-sea fishing boat. 2100 Avenue B, #1, Riviera Beach, 561.493.2828, vikingyachts.com
Runners Up: Axopar, Princess Yachts
Best Yacht Broker
Mike Scalisi
A former captain who grew up around his family’s Massachusetts boatyard, Scalisi knows everything there is to know about boats. 801 Seabreeze Blvd., Suite B, 954.650.3706, hmy.com
Runners Up: Worth Avenue Yacht, Northrop & Johnson
Best Boat Retailer
Princess Yachts
Watercraft made by this British company are as classy as they sound. And the sales process is done with an eye towards the luxury and service yacht customers expect. princessyachts.com
Runners Up: Nautical Ventures, Northrop & Johnson
Best Waterman
Captain Lee Rosbach
Any manner of nonsense might be happening around him on the yacht-based reality show Below Deck, but Captain Lee is a truly unflappable Florida Man.
Runners Up: Rik Cedola, Kevin Merrigan – Northrop & Johnson
Best Fishing Charter
Lunkerdog Fishing
If there are fish to be caught, Captain Jeff Maggio and the crew will drop in on top of them. Lunkerdogs also sells some pretty sweet merch, so you can dress the part. 1000 Seminole Dr., 954.294.5822, lunkerdog.com
Runners Up: Fishing Headquarters, Epic Blue Adventures
Best Marina
Sunrise Harbor Marina
Sunrise Harbor Luxury Apartments’ marina is centrally located and offers every amenity – not to mention easy ocean access. 1030 Seminole Dr., 954.667.6720, sunriseharbormarina.net
Runners Up: Bahia Mar, Lauderdale Marina
Best Car Dealership
Happy Car Sales
With two Fort Lauderdale-area locations, this old-school dealership has deals for miles on used cars, even in this depleted car market. 203 W State Rd 84, 954.745.9599, happycarsflorida.com
Runners Up: Gunther Group, Mercedes Benz of Fort Lauderdale
Services
Best Retirement Community
Belmont Village
This luxury community offers incredible services and amenities. And even more importantly, it offers a true sense of community. 1031 Seminole Dr., 954.780.5627, belmontvillage.com
Runners Up: John Knox Village, Manor Pines
Best Financial Advisor/Group
Michael Fuentes of Wells Fargo Advisors
From investments to retirement to market analysis, Fuentes makes money work for his clients. 200 E Las Olas Blvd., Suite 1820, 954.356.0226,
home.wellsfargoadvisors.com
Runners Up: Global Wealth Management, Merrill Lynch
Best Workspaces
General Provision
Good coffee, a central location, stylish spaces and meeting rooms with wow factor when you need to host a meeting – General Provision is a practical-yet-cool spot for the entrepreneur who needs to get out of the house. 525 NW 1st Ave., 954.361.1995, generalprovision.com
Runners Up: Office Edge, Pipeline
Best Interior Designer
Jewel Toned interiors
This firm works on everything from office space to restaurants to health and wellness spaces to residential. Each style is individual and specific to the space, but clean, modern and popping with pleasant color and perfect details are hallmarks. 3323 W Commercial Blvd., Suite E220, 954.774.9565, jeweltoned.com
Runners Up: Daniela Araya, Mary Scott Canada
Also Check Out: Interiors by Steven G
2818 Center Port Cir., Pompano Beach, FL 33064, 954.735.8223, interiorsbysteveng.com
Best Developer
Kenneth Stiles of Stiles Corporation
201 E Las Olas Blvd., 954.627.9300, stiles.com
Runners Up: Bob L. Moss of Moss Construction, Mitch Rosenstein of Green Mills Group
Best Development Company
Stiles Corporation
Led by CEO Ken Stiles, Stiles Corporation continues its 70-year journey to leave a lasting mark. No other company has as much shaped the way Fort Lauderdale looks today. 201 E Las Olas Blvd., 954.627.9300, stiles.com
Runners Up: Moss Construction, Compass Development
Best Real Estate Group
The Chad Bishop Group
401 E Las Olas Blvd., #100, 954.999.7317, chadbishopgroup.com
Runners Up: The Ringon Group, D’Angelo Realty
Best Realtor
Chad Bishop of The Chad Bishop Group
Around Fort Lauderdale and the rest of South Florida, if it’s luxury, the Chad Bishop Group is selling it. 401 E Las Olas Blvd., #100, 954.999.7317, chadbishopgroup.com
Runners Up: Erica Simas of Exit Realty, Alex Smythe of D’Angelo Realty
Best Mural Artist
Aaron Bodden/AAKABO
Wildly creative, steeped in popular culture and different cultures, Bodden creates bold, bright visions and is an exciting presence in the Fort Lauderdale art world. facebook.com/Aaron-Karl-Bodden
Runners Up: Daniela Araya, Nivia Bejarano
Best Car Wash
Majestic Car Wash
If you just want a basic wash, they’ve got you. But if you want all the wax, detailing – the full works, basically – come to them for a precision job. 2781 N Federal Hwy., 954.568.9450, majesticcarwashflorida.com
Runners Up: Sparkling Image Car Wash, Mr. Squeaky
Best Ad Agency
Green Cardigan Marketing
If you’re an attorney who needs to get the word out about what you do, Green Cardigan should be your first stop. Through website building, SEO, social media, email marketing and a broad and savvy approach to new media, they provide modern and effective tools to the legal profession. 300 SW 1st Ave., Suite 155, 786.505.2667, greencardiganmarketing.com
Runners Up: Super Agency, Chatterbox of South florida
Best Teacher
Natalie Stuart of Nova Eisenhower Elementary
The teacher’s embrace of TikTok during quarantine got her local and national attention – even getting her interviewed by Mario Lopez on Access Daily. But it’s her students who benefit the most from a teacher who got creative when times were hard. 6501 SW 39th St., Davie, 754.323.6650, browardschools.com/novaeisenhower
Runners Up: Brittany Maher Smythe of Nob Hill Elementary, Adrienne Khan of Bayview Elementary
Best Networking Group
Young Professionals in Yachting
Yachting doesn’t always have the best reputation as an industry that’s easy to break into. But through social events, professional development and other work, YPY is working to open doors. ypyinternational.org
Runners Up: BNI Premier, Executive’s Association of Fort Lauderdale
Best PR Agency
The Super Agency
Web-fluent and skilled at relationship building, The Super Agency handles the cutting-edge side of things as well as the good old-fashioned art of communication. 200 SW 1st Ave., 305.209.3666, thesuperagency.com
Runners Up: Chatterbox of South Florida, Pierson Grant Public Relations
Best Pharmacist
Dr. Takenya Walker
At a time when we’re all taking places like the drug store a lot less for granted, Dr. Walker is at the fore of getting her community what it needs. 1915 NE 45th St., #206, 954.771.1737
Runners Up: Rachael Pybus, Publix Galleria, April – Walgreens on Broward Blvd and 7th
Best Interior Design Firm
I D & Design International
Bold, upmarket and creative, with a slew of high-end Fort Lauderdale-area clients, ID brings the goods. 5100 N Dixie Hwy., Oakland Park, 954.566.2828, iddidesign.com
Runners Up: Jewel Tone Interiors, Nordic Designs
Also Check Out: Retro Interiors
2450 Wilton Dr., Wilton Manors, FL 33305, 954.561.1058, retrointeriors.net
Best Architecture Firm
FSMY Architects + Planners
From recent gems like Society Las Olas and 160 Marina Bay to stylish Brazilian restaurant Chima almost 20 years ago, FSMY’s fingerprints are on some of Fort Lauderdale’s most stylish modern buildings. 888 S Andrews Ave., Suite 300, 954.764.6575, fsmyarch.com
Runners Up: Tuthill, Bill Stores
Best Law Firm
Tripp Scott
Founder Norman Tripp died earlier this fall, but his legacy lives on in a firm known not just for being among the most respected in Fort Lauderdale, but also for a commitment to civic engagement and community. 110 SE 6th St., 15th floor, 954.525.7500, trippscott.com
Runners Up: Gelber Law Group, Eisinger Law
Best Sports Team
Florida Panthers
They’re hot, they’re young, they’re Broward County’s own – and after years of, let’s say, underwhelming results – the Panthers look poised to be a team that makes consistent, deep runs into the playoffs. That plus a lively, family-friendly gameday experience that’s second to none makes for a great South Florida day out. nhl.com/panthers
Runners Up: Miami Dolphins, Miami Heat
1 comment
Add my vote for Fort Lauderdale Stays
Best air bnb vacation rental