The Sarasota area has some of the best restaurants I have ever been to! The options are practically endless and include something for everyone! Below you will find some of my top, locally owned and operated picks for each neighborhood.
Enjoy!
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Anna Maria Island
The Waterfront
This restaurant certainly lives up to its name – the views are absolutely gorgeous and the food is even better. With an extensive menu of fresh seafood as well as a full bar, there truly is something for everyone. Try the Frutti di Mare – you will not be disappointed!
Bradenton
Pier22
Dubbed “a foodies riverside paradise”, this restaurant is located directly on the Manatee River with breathtaking views of our west coast sunsets! Construction of the original pier began in 1878 and has been rebuilt over the years. Waterfront views, charming ambiance and scratch-cooked meals make this a must visit while in downtown Bradenton!
Boca Grande
The Pink Elephant
If you’ve never had the chance to visit Boca Grande, I highly recommend it! The Gasparilla Inn, which is a Historic Hotel of America Landmark Inn, has been serving guests since 1913. Boasting a Pete Dye Championship Golf course, beach club, marina, croquet/tennis courts, and award winning salon and spa, it is easy to see why this is not to be missed destination! The Pink Elephant is one of their featured restaurants and serves lunch and dinner. Be sure to try one of their specialty cocktails – the Pink Elephant Hummer – a blended cocktail with Mount Gay rum, coffee liquor and vanilla ice cream! Absolutely delicious!
Downtown Sarasota
Blue Rooster
This is THE stop if you are in the mood for a true taste of the south! The Sunday Gospel Brunch Buffet opens at 11:30 a.m. and offers live music from 12:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Featuring an all you can eat buffet consisting of the classics – biscuits and gravy, cheesy grits, buttermilk waffles, fried green tomatoes and more! Be sure to call ahead and reserve a table for your group!
Ellenton/Palmetto
Riverhouse Reef & Grill
Located on the Manatee River, The Riverhouse Reef & Grill is proud to offer the freshest seafood, angus steaks and burgers as well as new twists on old classics such as their Lobster Pot Pie! All soups are house made creations and certainly do not disappoint. Try their lobster corn chowder or tomato gorgonzola bisque – both are absolutely delicious!
Englewood
Farlow’s on the Water
This locally owned and operated restaurant is a must stop! Great atmosphere, fabulous food! 2 things to try – the Kentucky Fried Green Tomatoes and their house specialty – the Fish Tacos! They are served with a tropical Kiwi Pico de Gallo and mango remoulade – it is the perfect Floridian twist on a classic.
Lakewood Ranch
Fast N Fresh
This is a build your own salad restaurant is certainly “the Cure for the Common Salad”. Fast N Fresh also offers sandwiches, wraps, soups, grain bowls and pressed paninis! Located directly on Main Street in Lakewood Ranch, this location can’t be beat for shopping and strolling. I’m a sucker for their honey mustard dressing on any of the salads!
Longboat Key
Euphemia Haye
Located in a historic, wooden cottage, this hidden gem is known as being the most romantic restaurant in the city! Boasting the only Dessert Bar on Longboat Key, Euphemia Haye serves countless pies, pastries, and cakes all made on site. This is one to go to for an unforgettable meal or just dessert in The Haye Loft upstairs. Live music is offered nightly beginning at 7:30 p.m.
North Sarasota
Muse
This comfortable yet contemporary dining experience is located within the Ringling Art Museum. Definitely an ideal dining spot to complement a day in the galleries or night at the theater! One of my personal favorites is their house grilled cheese made with Amish cheddar, Danish gouda, and American served with bacon jam on a brioche bun!
Sarasota
Ginza
Calling all sushi fans! This all-you-can-eat Asian cuisine and Sushi restaurant is open for lunch and dinner! Their menu offers something for everyone including specialty soups and salads, hibachi, signature rolls and much more. Centrally located in Sarasota off of Fruitville Road, this is one to definitely stop at for a meal – you won’t be disappointed!
South Sarasota
Baker & Wife
“Globally-inspired, Locally Crafted Cuisine & Cocktails”. This restaurant is located in an unassuming shopping center located in Sarasota, near Siesta Key. They have fantastic brick oven baked artisanal pizzas that are delicious. Try the Fugetaboutit version with pepperoni, sausage, meatballs and mozzarella!
Siesta Key
Siesta Key Oyster Bar
Siesta Key Oyster Bar, fondly referred to as SKOB by the locals, is known as the hot spot in the Siesta Key Village. They offer a variety of meals including burgers, wings, fresh fish, crab legs, and more! During their happy hour or as we call it “crustacean hour”, oysters are half off of their oysters If you are looking for a fun atmosphere with outdoor seating this is a place to check out.
St. Armandas/Lido Key
Columbia
Founded in 1905 by a Cuban immigrant, the Columbia Restaurant is Florida’s oldest restaurant and the largest Spanish restaurant in the world. All of the locations throughout Florida are owned and operated by 4th and 5th generation members of the founding family. With a 14 page extensive menu, you are sure to find something you love. My personal favorite is their Chicken and Shrimp “Barcelona” and blanco sangria made table side!
Venice
Casey Key Fish House
This fish house has the perfect “Old Florida” atmosphere with excellent food and a dining room where every seat has a water view! Live music Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Great place to grab a bite and watch sunset.