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The votes are in, the ballots are counted, and Southern Voice readers have chosen the year’s favorites in Atlanta’s gay nightlife, arts and entertainment, shopping, restaurants and community leaders and organizations.
Thousands of votes were cast, online and by mail, over the month-long voting period, and the results show the diversity of gay life in the city as well as the varied opinions of its gay residents.
The marquee of the landmark Fox Theatre lit up Oct. 2 as Southern Voice announced winners in several of the biggest Best of Gay Atlanta categories. The gala event was held in conjunction with the Atlanta Pride Committee’s Community Builder Awards, which were given to leaders nominated by local organizations.
Best of Gay Atlanta winners and runners up chosen by our readers are listed here, along with choices made by the editors of Southern Voice.
Readers’ Choice: Trinity Gallery
Editors’ Choice: Tew Galleries
Out of a slew of gay-owned galleries in Atlanta, Trinity Gallery has embarked on popular shows that included a 2002 Pop Art exhibition with works by gay artists Andy Warhol and David Hockney on the sales block. The gallery often features shows that include local gay artists.
Second place went to the gay-owned Lowe Gallery. Third place went to the Marcia Wood Gallery.
Readers’ Choice: Boy Next Door
Editors’ Choice: Urban Outfitters
Fashion-conscious gay boys said that when it comes to choosing the perfect — and perfectly trendy — nightclub or casual wear, Boy Next Door is par excellence. Located on Piedmont Road just up from Ansley Square, this store took the top spot in our poll this year.
Universal Gear came in second, and Filene’s Basement placed third.
Readers’ Choice: Fab’rik
Editors’ Choice: Old Navy
Couture conscious women seeking out the hippest trends in everything from shoes to slacks know Fab’rik in Midtown is a dream. With most items selling for under $100, fashionistas can make a statement without breaking the bank. Original jewelry designs and local art on display complement the urban style of this boutique. And if you become parched while on your shopping adventure? Quench your thirst at the water bar with offerings of carbonated, oxygenated, still and flavored water from Iceland and Canada.
Filene’s Basement placed second, and Target took third.
Readers’ Choice: Starbucks at Ansley Mall
Editors’ Choice: Outwrite Bookstore & Coffeehouse
Southern Voice readers chose the Starbucks at Ansley Mall as the best place in Atlanta to grab a cup of joe. It’s a great locale to sit by yourself and work or read, get coy with some friends, meet a date or just watch the steady flow of people inside and outside. Starbucks can be as busy at night as it is in the afternoon up to the wee hours of the morning.
Caribou Coffee came in second, and Outwrite Bookstore & Coffeehouse placed third.
Readers’ Choice: JOQ Day Spa for Men
Editors’ Choice: JOQ Day Spa for Men
For men looking for Atlanta’s premier day spa just for them, look no further. JOQ Day Spa for Men comes with all the perks to satisfy the boys, both gay and straight. With a friendly staff, clean, beautifully designed interior and variety of services, JOQ has solidified its place as the place for men’s pampering. For men looking for a relaxing afternoon, the spa offers massages, body wraps and facials. But for people interested in a cosmetic boost, the spa offers Botox and collagen treatments as well. All these luxuries are combined in a peaceful, upscale atmosphere.
Second place went to Natural Body, and third place went to Spa Sydell.
Readers’ Choice: Apres Diem
Editors’ Choice: The High Museum
Nestled in the back of Midtown Promenade, cloaked in a bed of ivy, Apres Diem sits waiting to be discovered by the unsuspecting eye. A full list of gourmet appetizers, sandwiches, entrees and desserts please the pallets of the restaurant’s diverse, hip clientele with a wait staff to match. Diners can enjoy a variety of after-dinner beverages, beyond the standard coffee, with a menu of coffeehouse concoctions. For those looking for the perfect spot to see if sparks fly, check out Apres Diem’s affordable dishes and trendy atmosphere.
Second place went to Piedmont Park, and third place went to Einstein’s.
Readers’ Choice: Urban Body Fitness
Editors’ Choice: LA Fitness, Ansley Square and 5th Street
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