Sadly, Tarpon isn't what it once was.
You're 100% correct. The decline started a couple years ago when the really great shops moved out, replaced by too many flea market-type vendors and unimpressive touristy eateries.
For two decades and for fun afternoons, I would take my northern guests to Tarpon Springs, but no more.
Now, for the enjoyment of prowling around a great variety of southern-style quality gift shops and restaurants I take them to Main Street, Dunedin.
Ah.....fun shopping in a super-interesting variety of Florida-style gift shoppes all afternoon, then a relaxing, luscious dinner at the waterfront Bon Appetit restaurant at sunset..... heaven is!
(Plus, for an extra added attraction, my neighbor's son owns a Main Street hole-in-the-wall eatery in Dunedin where REAL Chicago-style hot dogs are sold. Now THAT alone is worth the trip to the shopping area of this charming little Florida town).
Leni