What's Up Magazines

Best Fresh Baked Bagels: Naval Bagels
When it comes to fresh-baked bagels, first place winner was Naval Bagels, a popular place for breakfast and lunch. The smell of its yummy bagels will get your taste buds craving a nosh. The shop sells sandwiches and bagels individually and by the dozen. 609-A Taylor Ave., Annapolis, (410) 263-1344.

Best Gourmet Burger: Cheeburger, Cheeburger
Fresh ground beef with a wide variety of free toppings that includes guacamole, roasted red peppers, and chopped black olives makes these gourmet burgers standout favorites for the third consecutive year. 329-B Forest Dr. in the Festival Shopping Center in Parole, (410) 224-7297.

Best Wings: Acme
Acme continues to serve up the tastiest wings, offering a selection of fifteen different flavors-mild, spicy, or in between-to choose from. Is it worth getting your hands and face all messy? Absolutely. 163 Main St., Annapolis, (410) 280-6486.

Best Coffee to Start Your Day & Best Breakfast Pastries: City Dock Café
When the coffee and pastries are this good, the business keeps adding locations to serve the cravings of the local clientele. While the original downtown café, at 18 Market Space, (410) 269-0969, still is a favored destination for the earliest of risers for great coffee, scones, quiche, and muffins, there are three additional locations. 17 Maryland Ave., Annapolis, (410) 263-9747; 1296 Bay Dale Dr., Arnold, (410) 757-2405; Baltimore Washington Medical Center, 301 Hospital Dr., Glen Burnie, (410) 787-4872.

Best Down-Home BBQ: Adam's Ribs
Melt-in-your-mouth delicious ribs are the signature dish at Adam's Ribs, but don't forget about the pulled pork and the barbecue chicken. Finding an Adam's Ribs restaurant is easy, with three Anne Arundel County locations all serving down-home barbecue that's finger lickin' good! 921C Chesapeake Ave., Eastport, (410) 267-0064; 169 Mayo Rd., Edgewater, (410) 956-2995; 589 Baltimore Annapolis Blvd., Severna Park, (410) 647-5757.

Best Neighborhood Deli: Giolitti's
Fresh, authentic, and plentiful dishes define this Italian delicatessen, where daily lunch specials and a plethora of hearty selections will bust your belly but not your wallet. Giolitti's also offers a full-service deli case, as well as specialty items and fine wines. 2068 Somerville Rd., Parole, (410) 266-8600.

Best Afterdinner Indulgence: Melting Pot
Strawberries dipped in chocolate: a winning combination, right? You bet, and the Melting Pot provides it in rich, delicious fashion. Not only strawberries, but also other fruits, cake (cheesecake!), and brownies round out their divine dessert of bite-sized treats you can dip in luxurious melted chocolate. 2348 Solomons Island Rd., Parole, (410) 266-8004.

Best Place to Go for a Midnight Snack: Double T Diner
It's midnight and your appetite is calling. Follow the line to West Street's Double T Diner, where an extensive menu of sandwiches, seafood, desserts, and entrées is available 24 hours a day to appease any early-morning craving. 12 Defense St., Annapolis, (410) 974-6470; 1 Mountain Rd., Pasadena, (410) 766-9669.

Best Cream of Crab Soup & Best Sunday Brunch to Miss Church For: Carrol's Creek
A classic take on one of the richest soups that Marylanders enjoy, Carrol's Creek's thick and creamy recipe bursts with jumbo lump crabmeat and is topped appropriately with a splash of sherry. Order a bowl to go along with their fabulous Sunday brunch-an elaborate spread worth skipping out on church for. 410 Severn Ave., Eastport, (410) 269-1406.

Best Homemade Ice Cream: Annapolis Ice Cream
With more than 35 homemade ice cream selections (like coconut almond fudge, oatmeal raisin cookie, and peanut butter vanilla!), Annapolis Ice Cream Company caters to every unique ice cream palate-yes, even the palate of a penguin. 196 Main St., Annapolis, (443) 482-3895.

Best Salad Bar, Best Restaurant to Impress Your In-Laws & Best Place to Spoil Your Inner Chocoholic: Chart House
Your in-laws are certain to be impressed by your good taste in selecting a restaurant with a dazzling view of the Annapolis Harbor; a fabulous fresh and sumptuous salad bar; and a rich, delicious, and decadent Chocolate Lava Cake dessert. 300 Second Street, Eastport, (410) 268-7166.

Best Gelato: Aromi d'Italia
Aromi d'Italia scoops the best gelato-Italian ice cream, not to be confused with Italian ice-in your choice of a waffle cone or vibrant pink, yellow, or green cups with the trademark miniature spoon. With more than thirty flavors of gelato, made from a cream or fruit base, the Italian store accommodates every taste; if you're indecisive, try two flavors in one cup. 8 Dock St., Annapolis, (410) 263-1300.

Best Bread Basket: Great Harvest
Whether you fill your basket with round loaves of whole-grain bread or white bread for slicing, Great Harvest has the bread to suit every taste, baked fresh every day. 208 Ridgely Ave., West Annapolis, (410) 268-4662.

Best Restaurant When Somebody Else is Paying: Ruth's Chris
When worries of reaching for your wallet at meal's end are no longer an issue, what better place to enjoy someone else's generosity than Ruth's Chris, where divine dining melts in your mouth. 301 Severn Ave., Eastport, (410) 990-0033.

Best Special Occasion Restaurant: Northwoods
Crisp white tablecloths, fresh flowers, and impeccable service make this the favorite destination when it's time to celebrate. The tempting prix fixe menu, with so many delicacies to choose from, will encourage you and your guests to indulge. 609 Melvin Ave., West Annapolis, (410) 268-2609.

Best Restaurant Where Everybody Knows Your Name: Boatyard Bar & Grill
Comfort is a luxury best enjoyed with the company of good friends, a good meal in front of you, and, perhaps, a pint of beer. That's why when you step into the Boatyard Bar & Grill you'll know that all three are covered, even if you arrive alone. Severn Ave. & Fourth St., Eastport, (410) 216-6206.

Best Place to Seal the Deal: aqua terra
Sophisticated upscale dining with a menu to please every palate makes aqua terra the place to plead the case for romance or sign that business contract. 164 Main St., Annapolis, (410) 263-1985.

Best New Restaurant: Pesce Grande
Pesce Grande has made a grand entrance into the restaurant circuit, offering delicious Italian specialties in your choice of fine dining or, if you're feeling casual, their spacious bar area-ultimately bringing together a variety of people whose one thing in common is to enjoy a delicious meal. 2019 West St., Parole, (410) 224-0205.

Best Restaurant for Sunsets: Severn River Inn
Watch Annapolis transform at dusk while dining at the Severn River Inn, located on the eastern side of the Naval Academy bridge. Savor the stunning view of the Naval Academy, historic Annapolis, and the Severn River-an all-encompassing scene of beauty, history, and trademark Annapolis life. 1993 Baltimore Annapolis Blvd., Annapolis, (410) 349-4000.

Best Southwest/Tex-Mex: Chevy's
Once you've taken a seat at Chevy's, expect a fresh bowl of salsa and chips to arrive-fresh meaning a new batch of salsa is made hourly. The lively Tex-Mex restaurant serves up generous portions of sizzling southwest specialties, crisp salads, a variety of quesadillas, and more that will have you chanting "muchas gracias" out the door. 2436 Solomons Island Rd., Parole, (410) 573-4932.

Best Vegetarian Selections: Yin Yankee
When meat is off the radar, the answer is Yin Yankee. The Asian American fusion allows vegetarians to have their meatless pick of soup, sushi, noodles, salad, and great side dishes that make this restaurant a veggie lover's haven. 105 Main St., Annapolis, (410) 268-8703.

Best Outdoor Dining: Pusser's Caribbean Grille
Ego Alley dockside dining with excellent views of bustling Annapolis City Dock makes Pusser's a popular spot to relax during evening hours or to enjoy Sunday brunch. 80 Compromise St., Annapolis, (410) 626-0004.

Best Comfort Food: Davis Pub
A friendly Eastport watering hole with crab cakes, soup, fries, burgers, and all that other good stuff that brings you comfort. 400 Chester Ave., Eastport, (410) 268-7432.

Best Last Meal on Earth: Wild Orchid Café
Rack of lamb crusted with herbed Dijon mustard, Kobe beef sirloin served with bleu cheese potato gratin, and Alaskan king salmon with a mushroom and truffle scented risotto are just a few of the selections you might wish to order and savor. There's so much to tempt you. 909 Bay Ridge Ave., Eastport, (410) 268-8009.

Best Meal Under $15: Lebanese Taverna
Freshly prepared exotic food from the Middle East for the entire family makes Lebanese Taverna the best choice for a complete meal that cost less than $15 while avoiding plastic utensils. Annapolis Harbour Center, 2478 Solomons Island Rd., Annapolis, (410) 897-1111.

Best Restaurant to Take the Kids To: Buddy's Crabs & Ribs
Thinking about family night? Grab the kids and head downtown to Buddy's Crabs & Ribs, which provides unbeatable kids specials: those 10 and under eat free with every full-priced adult entrée. Add complimentary balloons to the mix and you've got a satisfied family. 100 Main St., Annapolis, (410) 269-1800.

Best Greasy Spoon: Chick & Ruth's
It's perhaps the only time you can say you consumed Robert Ehrlich Jr.-but only if you like a cheese hot dog with bologna. With a specialty menu full of sandwiches named after local politicians and celebrities, Chick & Ruth's continues to provide locals and tourists with everything from breakfast and sandwiches to hamburgers and milkshakes-you know, all the stuff that's worth cheating on your diet for. 165 Main St., Annapolis, (410) 269-6737.

Best Breakfast: Grump's Café
If you're brave, leave your jammies on when you hit up Grump's for an early morning breakfast-their servers do. Service with a smile, a family-fun atmosphere, great eats, and can't-beat prices make food fans flock to Grump's for breakfast (served all day!). 117 Hillsmere Dr.,Towards Bay Ridge, (410) 267-0229.

Best Irish: Galway Bay
Nestled between the shops on Maryland Avenue, Galway Bay defines Irish hospitality in a rustic pub and dining setting, where classic Irish selections like corned beef and cabbage and shepherd's pie are served. Imported beer, Scotch and Irish whiskey, and a good selection of wine are well stocked at the pub, where customers are entertained by each other and not by the distraction of a TV-a design devoted to keeping true Irish tradition. 63 Maryland Ave., Annapolis, (410) 263-8333.

Best Chef: Charlie Bauer of Rockfish
Last year Rockfish took top honors as the area's Best New Restaurant. With chef and owner Charlie Bauer at the helm, creating fabulous cuisine, it's small wonder this establishment boasts the top toque in town. 400 Sixth St., Eastport, (410) 267-1800.

Best Restaurant Atmosphere: Jalapeños
Spacious seating, the warm earthen tones of tilework, flamenco music, and a wall of flowing water captured inside glass to greet you as you enter this gourmet restaurant serving Spanish and Mexican cuisine combine to give this restaurant the award for Best Atmosphere. Forest Dr., #25, Parole, (410) 266-7580.

Best French Restaurant: Les Folies Brasserie
Continental atmosphere and gourmet French food provide a dining experience that is the next best thing to a trip to Paris. 2552 Riva Rd., Annapolis, (410) 573-0970.

Best Wine List & Best Steak to Cut Into: Lewnes Steakhouse
If you're wondering how to prepare a perfect filet mignon with the most harmonizing glass of wine, don't worry: Lewnes Steakhouse has already done all the research for you. With a sophisticated list of French, Italian, Spanish, and Napa Valley selections, it provides the best to complement every refined taste-even the most pretentious wine connoisseur may be caught smiling. 401 Fourth St., Eastport, (410) 263-1617.

Best Italian: La Piccola Roma
The menu at La Piccola Roma boasts a well-rounded mix of both classic and modern Italian dishes-enough so to warrant repeat visits to this cozy fine-dining locale, where the service is excellent. 200 Main St., Annapolis, (410) 268-7898.

Best German Restaurant: The Old Stein Inn
Framed by a Germanic architecture setting inside and out, the Old Stein never disappoints, providing traditional German fare with an American twist-and authentic German beer as well! 1143 Central Ave., Edgewater, (410) 798-6807.

Best Chinese Restaurant: House of Hunan
Crisp spring rolls, spicy szechuan beef, kung pao shrimp or the best of oriental comfort foods- chicken chow mein; the House of Hunan has it all. Eat in or carry out. Festival Plaza, 2311 E. Forest Drive, Parole(410)-266-1680.

Best Middle Eastern/Indian: India's
If the spice of Bombay is calling your name, look no further than Annapolis's India's Restaurant. The daily lunch buffet (a bargain) offers an excellent introduction to a menu that sees authentic dishes from the diverse regions of the country. 257 West St., Annapolis, (410) 263-7900.

Best Thai: Lemongrass
Serving up affordable and delicious Thai-style dishes in the setting of a cozy yellow house, Lemongrass adds ethnic flair to Annapolis, with outdoor and indoor dining in the newly redeveloped inner West Street area. 167 West St., Annapolis, (410) 280-0086.

Best Raw Oyster Bar: McGarvey's
For the third straight year the choice is clear, McGarvey's is the place to go for oysters on the half shell. 8 Market Space, Annapolis, (410) 263-5700.

Best Margarita: Mexican Café
The recipe is a winner, folks! The Mexican Café mixes up a mean margarita that has customers flocking to sample, whether it's the first time, or second, or third, or fourth . . . 975 Bay Ridge Rd., Towards Bay Ridge, (410) 626-1250.

Best Seafood: O'Learys Seafood Restaurant
Fresh fish and shellfish prepared in unique combinations using seasonal produce keep the loyal clientele of this Eastport restaurant returning for more, again and again. 310 Third St., Eastport, (410) 263-0884.

Best Sushi: Joss
Year after year, Joss slices away sushi competition like samurai-its artful presentation, top-quality ingredients, and loyal Itamae-Sans (expert chefs), who create the appealing palettes of sushi, rank as the city's finest. And let us not forget the staff hospitality and choice authentic atmosphere. 195 Main St., Annapolis, (410) 263-4688.

Best Restaurant by Boat: Jimmy Cantler's Riverside Inn
Cantler's sits on the banks of Mill Creek, where the quiet majesty of the wooded area is oft interrupted by good cheer fueled by great seafood. Long a favorite for landlubbers seeking the Bay's bounty, Cantler's also offers free dockage to patrons arriving by boat-another great reason to purchase that 30' vice you've always dreamed of. 458 Forest Beach Rd., Annapolis, (410) 757-1311.

Best Place to Catch up with a Friend: Pronto Coffee Bar/The Weather Rail at Loews Hotel
Morning or evening, and any time in between, the comfortable wicker chairs, inviting bar, and relaxed atmosphere make this a perfect place for intimate conversation. Delicious fresh-brewed coffee or a cocktail mixed to order-you choose. 126 West St., Annapolis.

Best Place to Watch the Game: Original Steakhouse & Sports Theater
Stroll into this restaurant, ask the hostess for a table for five . . . oh, and mention that you're there to watch the game. Like clockwork, she'll ask you, "Which team would you like to watch?" and then seat you at the appropriate table with a perfect view of the game. And that's the beauty of the Original Steakhouse, which boasts big-screen sports entertainment for any fan of any game. 139 Mitchell's Chance Rd., Edgewater, (410) 956-4494.

Best Place to Move Your Hips & Feet: O'Brien's
Luckily, you don't have to be a good dancer to cut a rug at O'Brien's-but it doesn't hurt. A magnet for those who need to let loose, O'Brien's provides entertainment 7 days a week, courtesy of popular local acts and a DJ, with a cover charge that doesn't exceed $5. 113 Main St., Annapolis, (410) 268-6288.

Best Place to Be Seen: Metropolitan
Upon entering through the tall glass doors of the three-story, oh-so-chic Metropolitan restaurant, you may feel as if you've wandered into a New York hotbed of successful stylish people with fashionable martinis in hand-which is all true, except you're overlooking West Street from the rooftop patio instead of Manhattan. For a night on the town, those high heels or Italian [shoes are more than appropriate here, so put on your best and get shmoozing. 169 West St., Annapolis, (410) 268-7733.

Best Bartender (tie): Sparky Critzman at Rockfish, Kevin Epley at Acme & Stan Fletcher at Ebb Tide
From Main Street to Eastport to Bay Ridge, you're bound to get a good drink in your hands, courtesy of bartenders Sparky Critzman of Rockfish, Kevin Epley of Acme, and Stan Fletcher of Ebb Tide. Great service paired with conversation and a smile? These guys must be doing something right. Acme, 163 Main St., Annapolis, (410) 280-6486; Ebb Tide, 985 Bay Ridge Rd.,Towards Bay Ridge, (410) 263-5000; Rockfish, 400 Sixth St., Eastport, (410) 267-1800.

Best Martini: Tsunami
Bond would be in nirvana. Churchill, Hemingway, Roosevelt? You bet. And you, with your tendencies toward exotic and colorful martini recipes-well, Tsunami has got you covered too. From the classic take to contemporary concoctions, Tsunami reigns the city supreme in the art of martini mixing. 51 West St., Annapolis, (410) 990-9868.

Best Draft Selection: Heroes
With 48 beer taps, count 'em 48!, Heroes is a libation destination for connoisseurs of barley 'n' hops brews. From craft beers to domestic staples to import exotics, Heroes has a pint with your name on it. 1 Riverview Ave., West Annapolis, (410) 573-1996.

Best Bottle Selection & Best Live Music Venue: Rams Head Tavern
Sidle up and order a brew from anywhere around the world. Drink 100 down, pass 'em around, and you're a member of the World Beer Club-the prestigious group of individuals who have conquered Rams Head's mighty collection of bottled beers. While you're at it sit back and relax to the sounds of national music acts at Rams Head OnStage or local favorites on the back patio or in the downstairs tavern. Rams Head truly is a renaissance venue. 33 West St., Annapolis, (410) 268-4545.

Best Solo Artist: Doug Segree
For the second year running, Doug Segree takes top honors as Annapolis's Best Solo Artist. The singer-songwriter-guitarist never falls short of entertaining all with his energetic acoustic rock. www.dougsegree.com.

Best Band: Jarflys
With their punchy rock sound that incorporates sax and funk elements, Jarflys have won over Annapolitans, performing weekly gigs at venues throughout town (every Tuesday at Armadillos)-it's always a party when this six-pack hits the stage. www.jarflys.com.

Best Radio Station: 103.1 WRNR Radio Annapolis
Where else can you hear the Arctic Monkeys, Joni Mitchell, REM, Grateful Dead, Ramones, James Blunt, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Buffalo Springfield, and Fiona Apple back to back to back to . . . ? Only 103.1 WRNR Radio Annapolis, the best and most eclectic radio station to ride the airwaves. www.wrnr.com.

Best Jazz Performer: Rob Levit
We asked, you responded. Rob Levit is your favorite local jazz musician-2 years in a row! The guitarist-composer has long been known throughout the Mid-Atlantic as a premier instrumentalist and purveyor of the jazz idiom. www.roblevit.com.

Best Happy Hour Specials: Yellowfin
Hands down, the absolute best specials you’ll find in town between the hours of 4—7 p.m. Monday through Saturday (2—6 p.m. Sunday) is Yellowfin, located on the banks of the South River. With a majestic view of the water and lush forests of Edgewater and Davidsonville, you’d be hard pressed to enjoy half priced appetizers and drink specials anywhere else. Cool contemporary atmosphere and socialite flare make Yellowfin a fave amongst hip 30 somethings and upscale professionals. 2840 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater, (410) 573-1333.

Best Jazz Music Venue & Best Coffeehouse Entertainment Venue: 49 West
An intimate setting makes this restaurant, wine bar, and coffeehouse a favorite haunt for fans of the city's finest jazz, folk, acoustic rock, andalternative music, just about every night of the week. 49 West St., Annapolis, (410) 626-9796.

Best Public Beach: Sandy Point State Park
Boating, canoeing, kayaking, jet skiing, crabbing, fishing, hiking, picnicking, swimming, and windsurfing-if there's a better public beach at which to sink your toes into the sand, we haven't found it. Neither have you, as you voted Sandy Point Best Public Beach. 1100 East College Pkwy., Annapolis, (410) 974-2149.

Best Toy Store: Be Beep
Personalized service and quality toys have earned Be Beep the reputation of the Best Toy Store. You can find Be Beep, now in its 27th year of business, at two locations. In the Festival Shopping Center, 2327 Forest Dr., Annapolis (410) 224-4066; in the Park Plaza Shopping Center, Severna Park, (410) 544-1844.

Best Playground: Newman St./Green St.
It's playground heaven for kids, and just plain heaven for parents, who can bring their children to spend hours exploring the Newman Street/Green Street playground. Swings, monkey bars, slides, and even a mini rock wall-what more could a kid ask for? www.annapolis.gov.

Best Birthday Celebrations: Arundel Olympic Swim Center
For celebrations worth backflipping for, Arundel Olympic Swim Center provides the setting. Long a favorite place to host kids' birthday celebrations, the center offers party room rentals for $75 (a 2-hour block for up to 30 swimmers). 2690 Riva Rd., Annapolis, (410) 222-7933.

Best Entertainment for Kids: Annapolis Symphony Orchestra Family Concert
Geared to the tastes of youngsters, featuring lively repertoire and dramatic stories, costumes, and lighting, the family ASO concert series will have your children and grandchildren clamoring to return for another performance. 801 Chase St., Annapolis, (410) 269-1132.

Best Unique Shop: Muddy Paw Wash
Where else can you bring your pet for a rinse and dry-and yourself for your morning coffee? Muddy Paw Wash fuses convenience and service while thinking first and foremost of its two- and four-legged customers. 130 Hillsmere Dr., Annapolis, (410) 268-7387.

Best Attraction for Kids: Pirates of the Chesapeake
Arrr mayteee! Captain Billy Baye continues to win the hearts of kids and families with his wild tales of piracy and lively musical performances on the hour long Pirates of the Chesapeake tour from Watermark Cruises. (410) 268-7601.