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Our town's best got even better in 2005, as this year's avalanche of ballots proved. Read on to see who topped the charts in our second annual survey.
By Carol Denny, j.s. houck, and Kimberly Raspa
Best Dining
Best Seafood: O'Leary's
Foodies flock to this highly-regarded restaurant, which adds the best elements of world cuisine to an excellent selection. Seafood is prepared to individual specifications, and distinctive sauces and sides make for memorable dining. 310 Third Street, Annapolis. 410-263-0884.
Best Italian: Maria's
A slice of Italy on Market Space, Maria's continues to please Annapolitans with generous, authentic entrees from her Sicilian kitchen. 12 Market Space, Annapolis. 410-268-2112.
Best French: Les Folies Brasserie
The "crème de la crème" cuisine at Les Folies Brasserie invites everyone to become a Parisien while enjoying fine wines and an appetizing menu. 2552 Riva Rd., Annapolis. 410-573-0970.
Best Chinese: Joy Luck Emperor
For a peaceful evening of Eastern sophistication, Joy Luck Emperor is the source for chopstick elegance. 1777 Main St., Annapolis. 410-267-7700.
Best Greek: Chris' Charcoal Pit
Everything has a Greek stamp of authenticity at the family-owned Chris' Charcoal Pit, where Annapolitans first caught on to the gyro trend. 1946 West St., Annapolis, 410-266-5200.
Best Indian: India's
Search no further: enjoy a lavish lunch buffet or fine dinner at India's, where custom Tandoori and Indian cuisine specialties are served. 257 West St., Annapolis. 410-263-7900.
Best Middle Eastern: Lebanese Taverna Café
Lebanese Taverna Café is a mezza mecca where fast-food service is balanced with a sophisticated presentation (real china and silverware). 2478 Solomons Island Rd., Annapolis Harbour Center, Annapolis. 410-897-1111.
Best Irish: Galway Bay
It's Ireland 24/7 at Galway Bay, where a hearty meal of shepherd's pie and a pint say it all for this traditional, rustic pub on Maryland Ave., 63 Maryland Ave., Annapolis. 410-263-8333.
Best Southwest/Tex Mex and Best Margarita: Mexican Café
It's a fiesta every day at Mexican Café, known for its potent signature margaritas and Mexican cuisine. 975 Bay Ridge Rd., Annapolis. 410-626-1520.
Best Sushi: Joss
Looking for sushi with style? Joss is the place. You'll also earn the chance to get your dining party's picture on the wall-that is, if you can find space. Joss, 195 Main St., Annapolis. 410-263-4688.
Best Spanish: Jalapeños
Known for dynamite Mediterranean/Mexican fusion. Jalapeños makes a great plate of hand-stuffed jalapeños and other deliciously prepared traditional Spanish and Mexican dishes. 85 Forest Drive, Annapolis. 410-266-7580.
Best for Sunsets: Yellowfin
Docked on the South River, this is the best haven to enjoy midsummer sunsets while dining on exquisite fare. The view is cardinal west along the river, where boaters sail to and from a horizon that sees the tangerine sun dip softly below the Davidsonville forests. 2840 Rt. 2, Edgewater. 410-573-1371.
Best by Boat: Cantler's Riverside Inn
Weigh anchor at this justly-famous hideaway on Whitehall Creek, where the waterviews are wide and the seafood is savory. 458 Forest Beach Drive, Annapolis. 410-757-1467.
Best Outdoor Dining: Carrol's Creek
Overlooking the busy waterway of Spa Creek is Carrol's Creek and its spacious outdoor patio, where you can watch nautical action while feasting on top-rated nautical fare. 410 Severn Ave., Annapolis. 410-269-1406.
Best Steakhouse, Best Wine List, Last Meal on Earth: Lewnes
Matchmaking is an art form, as is culinary perfection. Lewnes covers both with a handsome wine list paired with prime steaks-an education in divine dining. 401 4th St., Annapolis. 410-263-1617.
Best New Restaurant: Rockfish
Eastport's newest dining spot is reeling them in. Rockfish chef Charlie Bauer has found success with a fresh seafood menu, ranging from roasted rotisserie rockfish to a medley of favorite shellfish, neighbored with equally delicious pizza, beef and chicken selections. The aquarium alone is worth the visit. 400 Sixth St., Annapolis. 410-267-1800.
Best Bargain Meal: Chick 'n' Ruth's
This Main Street staple features big name sandwiches (named after politicos and the city's who's who) and fare at can't-beat prices. 165 Main St., Annapolis. 410-269-6737.
Best Early Bird Special: Café Normandie
Arrive between 5-6:30 p.m. and a three-course taste of French cuisine is only $22. Tres bien. 185 Main St., Annapolis. 410-263-3382.
Best Late Night Eats, Best Diner: Double T Diner
For milkshakes at midnight, mega-salads after the movie, or a bite when the bars close, the destination of choice is the Double-T Diner. The city's all-night nosh spot offers plenty of room and plenty of choices, with a menu as big as The Capital. 12 Defense St. (West St. at Solomon's Island Rd.), Annapolis. 410-571-9070.
Best Chef: Wild Orchid
Seasons and spices-owner and Executive Chef Jim Wilder knows that as the seasons change, there's opportunity to invigorate his classically-inspired French recipes with timely zest. 909 Bay Ridge Ave., Annapolis. 410-268-8009.
Best Place to Take the Out of-Towners and Best Salad Bar: Chart House
Dazzle your visitors with one of the capital's best views at this nationally-known purveyor of steak and seafood. 300 Second St., Annapolis. 410-268-7166.
Best Special Occasion: Northwoods
For over 20 years, chef/owner Russell Brown and his wife, Leslie, have kept this local jewel sparkling and sophisticated. Prize-winning cuisine and an extensive wine list. 609 Melvin Avenue, Annapolis. 410-268-2609.
Best Family: Grumps Café
Bright, colorful, a favorite for parent-and-kid combos from Hillsmere and beyond-and we haven't met a grump yet. 117 Hillsmere Dr., Annapolis. 410-267-0229.
Best Kids' Menu: Buddy's
Tots, teens, and everybody in between finds friendly sustenance at this City Dock hot spot. 100 Main St., Annapolis. 410-626-1100
Best Food
Best Wings: Acme Bar & Grill
It's the only Acme, still in business since 1994, and the wings speak for themselves. With 15 custom flavors, it's no wonder fans flock to this two-years-in-a-row winner. 163 Main St., Annapolis. 410-280-6486.
Best Gelato: Aromi d'Italia
Rich hues and rich flavors make for irresistible mid-summer delights, and the Italian authenticity melts "silky-sweet" in your mouth. 6 Dock St., Annapolis. 410-269-1300.
Best Local Coffee Shop & Best Pastries: City Dock Cafe
The brainchild of siblings Stephen and Kerry Duffy, City Dock Cafe provides a variety of coffees for their loyal clientele. And more: fresh muffins, scones, quiches and a delectable lunch menu to satisfy any appetite. City Dock Cafe, 18 Market Space, Annapolis. 410-269-0961.
Best Deli: Giolitti's
For the perfect lunchtime run, slip into Giolitti's, where an Italian spread awaits. Choose from sandwiches, soups, salads and pastas-you can even treat yourself to a glass of wine or two from their wall-length selections. 2068 Somerville Rd., Annapolis, 410-266-8600.
Best Bagels: Bagels And...
With locations on Taylor Avenue and West Street, Bagels And... brings in the business, catering to all bagel preferences for breakfast and lunch. It's the neighborhood bagel joint, and yes, the prices are just as tasty as the bagels. 2019 West St., 410-224-8686, and 609-A Taylor Ave., 410-263-1344.
Best Cakes: Caroline's Cakes
Caroline's Cakes knows how to satisfy a sweet tooth. From her signature seven-layer caramel cake to her sinful chocolate cake, indulge in one or all. You can't go wrong, and your taste buds will surely thank you. 1580 Whitehall Rd., Annapolis. 410-349-2212.
Best Burgers: Cheeburger Cheeburger
In the sizzling competition for best burger, this Festival at Riva eatery with its '50s theme earns the Big Bun. Oversized, juicy and served with four-star fries, it's the Platonic ideal of America's favorite sandwich. Festival at Riva, 2329 Forest Drive, Annapolis. 410-224-7297.
Best Fries: Five Guys
You said it: "they crisp the pommes frites best"-not bad for the new guys in town. 509 S. Cherry Grove Ave., Annapolis. 410-216-7971.
Best BBQ: Adam's Ribs
Ribs like butter? You bet. Adam's practically falls off the bone, melting in your mouth, and its pulled pork is the most sought-after in the region. 169 Mayo Rd., Edgewater. 410-956-2995.
Best Sandwiches: Eastport Deli
Made-to-order and house specialty sandwiches stacked as high as the State House Dome in an inviting atmosphere and convenient location. Eastport Plaza, Annapolis. 410-263-8313.
Best Brewpub, Best Draft Selection, Best Bottle Selection, Best Live Music: Rams Head Tavern & OnStage
You want it? You got it. Rams Head Tavern in Annapolis packs the proverbial everything-under-the-sun punch. Their house-brewed craft-beers are divine (as are their 100-plus bottled kin) and menu selections are supreme. Pop thru the twin doors of OnStage, which hosts national and regional music acts, and you're in "noteworthy" heaven. Enjoy any time of the year! 33 West St., Annapolis. 410-268-4545
Best Pizzeria: Mangia
Grab a slice to go or eat in at this New York-style café, and indulge your appetite for Italian food as well as sports lore. 81 Main Street, Annapolis. 410-268-1350.
Best Oysters: McGarvey's
This pearl among downtown saloons wins for best bivalves, the second year in a row. 8 Market Space, Annapolis. 410-263-5700.
Best Bakery: Great Harvest Bread Co.
Go early and breathe deep-the warm scent of just-from-the-oven specialty breads (and generous samples) is irresistible. 208 Ridgely Ave., Annapolis. 410-268-4662.
Best Dessert: The Melting Pot
Is there a more perfect dessert than chocolate fondue? Try the decadent dip with cake, fruits or berries, or savor a smooth Flaming Turtle. 2348 Solomons Island Rd., Annapolis. 410-266-8004.
Best Ice Cream: Storm Brothers
Succumb to the temptation of a cone from Storm Brothers-City Dock's favorite stop for ice cream, and a two-time "best of" winner. 130 Dock St., Annapolis. 410-263-3376.
Best Nightlife
Best Bartender: Jeff Maguire, Boatyard Bar & Grill
Down to the last drop? Chances are, if you're sipping at Boatyard Bar & Grill, bartender Jeff Maguire will have a fresh pint in place before you make the last draw. Maguire's magnetism is hard to forget, and he'll gladly serve you well-prepared libations along with banter that goes the friendly mile.
Best Band: Jarflys
Jimi Haha and his four-piece band Jarflys lead the way again, joined by a wave of loyal followers. The group takes Annapolis on with a dose of funk-progressive rock, a soundbyte worthy of your CD player. www.jarflys.com.
Best Solo Artist: Doug Segree
When there's a need for entertainment, that's where Doug Segree can be found. With guitar in hand, it's easy for this music-maker to get his audience moving their heads and their hips. www.segree.com.
Best Jazz Performer: Rob Levit
Whether performing solo or with his trio, this energetic guitarist, composer, educator and artist-in-residence (at Maryland Hall) plays gigs everywhere, from mid-town to mid-Atlantic. www.roblevit.com.
Best Place to Talk, Best Live Jazz: 49 West
Art, music, ambience: for café culture in Annapolis, there's no better exemplar than this.
The West St. revival began right here. 49 West St., Annapolis. 410-626-9796.
Best Place to Dance: O'Brien's
Ladies, bust out your go-go boots. Guys, get in line. On any given night, O'Brien's is hopping to hot regional music acts that get everybody in the groove. 113 Main St., Annapolis. 410-268-6288.
Best Sports Bar: Heroes
Forty-eight flowing taps, satellite televisions in every corner and service with a smile appeases all fans, especially Redskins and Terps. 1 Riverview Ave., Annapolis. 410-573-1996.
Best Martini: Tsunami
Tsunami's got it going on. A very fashionable martini list takes top prize for its contemporary flair and appeal, especially on Wednesday nights, the hippest evenings in town. 51 West St., Annapolis. 410-990-9868.
Best Radio Station, Best DJ: WRNR
Local progressive music at its best, WRNR 103.1 FM is indeed a diverse universe of sound and home to top radio personality Rob Timm, whose 3-7 p.m. slot is a favorite among local radioheads.
Best Karaoke: Ebb Tide
Thursday nights mean one thing: sing alongs with the screen at this Bay Ridge landmark. Talent? Who needs talent? 985 Bay Ridge Rd., Annapolis 410-269-1500.
Best Place to Meet Singles: O'Brien's, Heroes and McGarvey's
If you fall under the "un-attached" category, you may frequent O'Briens, Heroes or McGarvey's, all local attractions tied for entertainment, bar life and apparently, potential dates. O'Briens, 113 Main St., Annapolis. 410-268-6288; Heroes, 1 Riverview Ave., Annapolis. 410-573-1996; McGarvey's, 11 Pinkney St., Annapolis. 410-263-5772.
Best Place for a First Kiss: City Dock
Intimacy can be found along the moonlit City Dock, where whispering waters and just enough breeze push you into making your move.
Best Services
Best Jeweler: Zachary's
Established in 1992, Zachary's reputation as a quality jeweler runs remarkably high. Known globally as the source for USNA class rings, Steve Samaras' shop also provides an array of imported diamonds and priceless customer service. He'll even help you plan your proposal. 122 Main St., Annapolis. 410-266-5555.
Best Caterer: The Main Ingredient
Whatever the event, The Main Ingredient serves it up right with fine food and presentation. Stop in the restaurants for a filling breakfast, lunch and dinner. 914 Bay Ridge Rd., Annapolis. 410-626-0388; 547 Benfield Rd., Severna Park. 410-647-6920.
Best Massage Therapist, Best Spa Services, & Best Facial: The Body Connection
Let's get physical: The Body Connection caters to all body needs as mastered by massage therapist Jen Yoakum and facial specialist Joan Gleason. 2521 Riva Rd., Annapolis. 410-224-4107.
Best Hair Stylist: Jen McGraw, Robert Andrew Salon & Spa
For a trim or a new style, Jen McGraw provides clients with quality hair care at the Gambrills salon. 1328 Main Chapel Way, Gambrills. 410-721-3533.
Best Shopping
Best Grocery and Specialty Market: Trader Joe's
A cornucopia of vegetarian choices plus dips and spreads, entrées and desserts, and yes, an entire aisle of nuts. Selection and quality put Trader Joe's in the winner's circle. 160 Jennifer Plaza, Annapolis. 410-573-0505.
Best Produce: Whole Foods
If you can tear yourself away from the fabulous floral selection, you'll find mounds of tantalizing fruits and veggies, helpfully labeled as organic and non-. 2504 Solomons Island Rd., Annapolis Harbour Center, Solomons Island Rd., Annapolis. 410-573-1800.
Best Seafood Market: Annapolis Seafood Market
Locations in Edgewater, Severna Park and Forest Drive serve up Bay delicacies by the pound. Rock, salmon, crabcakes, lobster and more-condiments and lemons, too-are here for your feast. 3105 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater, 410-956-2023; 1300 Forest Drive, Annapolis. 410-263-7787; 552-L Ritchie Hwy., Severna Park. 410-544-4900.
Best Women's Shoes: Nordstrom's
Superb style, plenty of sizes, and super-efficient sales clerks-can it get any better? This shoe salon is the ultimate chick magnet. Westfield Shoppingtown Annapolis, 410-573-1121.
Best Music Store: Tower Records
Seems like no matter what music you're looking for, from cha-cha to rock opera, Tower's got it. And if they don't, they'll be glad to order it for you. 2566 Solomons Island Rd., Annapolis. 410-573-5360.
Best Florist: Gateway Florist
Long known for their exquisite assemblage of perennial favorites, Gateway Florist is the annual pick for botanical beauty. 914 Bay Ridge Rt. Ste. 160, Annapolis. 410-263-3623.
Best Furniture and Home Décor: Alistair & Ruby
Eclectic, posh, fancy, stylish-all describe the furniture and home accents at this newest introduction to the home décor market. 1816 George Ave., Annapolis. 410-626-1606.
Best Bike Shop: Bike Doctor
Whether you want to pick one or patch one, Bike Doctor answers the call for all biking needs. 160-C Jennifer Rd., Annapolis. 410-266-7383
Best Guitar Shop: Acousticopia
For vintage acoustic needs, Acousticopia has what your ear yearns for-and much more than you ever expected. 55 West St., Annapolis. 410-216-7711.
Best Sports
Best Golf Course: Renditions
In the mood for championship atmosphere in the serenity of middle Maryland? Linksters look to Renditions, with 18 holes recreated from the world's most famed courses. 1380 W. Central Ave., Davidsonville. 410-798-9798.
Best Place to Fish: Thomas Point
Whether boating around or fishing from "The Point," if your lines aren't biting to the tune of "Rockfish," it's because you haven't cast into the water yet. Call the Annapolis Service Center, 410-260-3220, for license and permit requirements.
Best Place to Water Ski: South River
The wide and long expanse of the South R. accommodates vast numbers of skiers from summer-rise to summer-set. Launch from Oak Grove Marina (410-266-6696), Pier Seven Marina (410-956-2288) or Turkey Point Marina (410-798-1369).
Best Raquetball: Merritt
Long the local hotbed for raquet-ballers in Annapolis, Merritt offers analysis of your game, private lessons, match arrangements, clinics, tournaments, and the Merritt Club Championships. 1981 Moreland Pkwy., Annapolis. 410-269-5400.
Best Public Tennis Courts: Truxtun Park
Truxtun Park provides 10 well-maintained courts for individuals and the occasional tournament. They're available for anyone to play into the night, with overhead lights until 11 p.m. Off Hilltop Lane, Annapolis. 410-263-7958.
Best Pool Hall: T.K. Sharky's
What's behind Sharky's tinted windows? 18 tables equaling a billiard playground for all pool lovers. 2072 Somerville Rd., Annapolis. 410-841-5599.
Best Yoga Studios: Crofton Yoga and Prana Yoga (tie)
"Yoga for everybody" is the theme at Crofton Yoga, with Kripalu-inspired classes for every age and ability-and babysitting, too. 2411 Crofton Lane, Crofton. 410-451-4464.
Prana Yoga's newly-expanded studio in a cottage-like setting also offers massage, Reiki healing and deep relaxation therapy. Aaaah. 2901 Riva Trace, Annapolis. 410-266-3401.
Best Bowling: Annapolis Bowl
Galaxy Glow Bowling, late-night hours, 32 lanes and a Wednesday after-school program for kids. And very cool shoes. Defense Hwy., Annapolis. 410-266-0700.
Best Fitness Club: Annapolis Athletic Club
Serious about fitness? The latest equipment and on-the-scene personal trainers are here to help you get buff. 1301 Bay Ridge Ave., Annapolis 410-990-1095.
Best Local Park, Best Playground, Best Place to Canoe/Kayak, Best Place to Fly a Kite, & Best Place to Kick a Soccer Ball: Quiet Waters Park
Activists agree: Quiet Waters is the all-around best place to be for sheer versatility, accommodating a range of outdoor activity. 600 Quiet Waters Park Rd., Annapolis. 410-222-1777.
Best High School Rivalry: Severna Park vs. Broadneck
Sport after sport, season after season, a clash between the Falcons and Bruins is county competition at its finest-and Broadneck's "Kazmaniacs" always get the crowd pumped.
Best Family & Kids
Best Public Beach: Sandy Point State Park
Sand between your toes, jet-ski rentals, fishing and crabbing, barbecue grill areas, and the lapping waves of the Chesapeake make Sandy Point a family favorite. 1100 E. College Pkwy., Annapolis. 410-974-2149.
Best Toy Store: Be Beep
For 26 years, Be Beep Toy Store has kept small-town philosophy in practice and play, eschewing conglomerate status in favor of quality toys and personal service. 2327 Forest Dr., Annapolis. 410-224-4066. Runner up: Something Whimsey.
Best Entertainment for Kids: Kabala the Magician
With 20 years of experience and 4,000 parties and events under his belt, Kabala the Magician keeps entertaining audiences with comedy, balloons and sleight-of-hand. 410-987-9644. Runners Up: Xpress It & Pirate Adventures on the Chesapeake.
Best Around Town
Best Local Celebrity: Pat Sajak
For "Wheel of Fortune" host Pat Sajak, the wheel is turning and it can't slow down. During Sajak's residency in Annapolis, he has contributed to the community, donating generously to Anne Arundel Medical Center and through his involved ownership of 1430 WNAV Radio. Vanna, give him an A.
Best Power Couple: Gov. and Mrs. Robert Ehrlich, Jr.
Hard to deny that the most influential couple in Annapolis is the one residing in the Governor's Mansion. And Drew and Joshua are our favorite mini-Marylanders!
Best Historic Building and Best Garden: William Paca House
Stately residence of a Declaration of Independence signer, the grand William Paca House bears history and loveliness in its highly admired grounds. William Paca House & Garden, 18 Pinkney St., Annapolis. 410-267-7619.
Best Local Event: Tug of War
It's two parties, one on either side of Spa Creek, with a whole lotta shakin' goin on both sides of the rope. For community spirit, this annual muscle match-up takes top honors.
Best Free Activity: Walking Downtown
The capital's tiny streets weren't made for your Hummer, but for your feet. Stroll State Circle, explore the alleys off Main Street, or amble along Fleet Street, without spending a dime.
Best New Year's Eve Activity: First Night Annapolis
An explosion of performances provides multi-generational merriment on the very day you're ready to party. Never been? Save the date. www.firstnightannapolis.org.