Sarasota dining: all around town.
Bacco's Ristorante ItalianoThe elegant ambience will embrace you in this authentic Italian restaurant, whether you come for a business meeting or a romantic candlelight dinner. Their inspired contemporary recipes and traditional masterpiece blends are always delightfully fresh and prepared from scratch in-house, from bread to desserts. Full bar, private party rooms, valet parking, new location.
Menu Highlights
Appetizers
Shrimp skewers with prosciutto and herbs
Antipasto caldo di mare
Entrees
Seafood risotto
Lobster ravioli
Sea scallops fettuccine
Bef filet with aged balsamic vinegar and wild mushrooms
Owner
Claudia Zecchin Moschini
Executive Chef
Matteo Migliorini
Managing Partner
Paolo Moschini
23 N. Lemon Ave., Sarasota (941) 365-7380
Barnacle Bill's Seafood
This local favorite was again voted "Best Seafood Restaurant" by readers of SARASOTA Magazine and winner of the Sarasota Herald-Tribune Reader's Choice awards. Sarasota's finest fresh seafood. No waterfront, no view ... just great, award-winning resort-style food.
Menu Highlights
Appetizers
Smoked salmon appetizer
Lobster chimichanga
Certified oysters on the half shell
Entrees
Award-winning crab cakes
Grouper Gaspar
Bouillabaisse
Specializing in large lobsters
Executive Chef
William Davis
General Manager
Ken Davis
3634 Webber St., Sarasota (941) 923-5800
1526 Main St., Sarasota (941) 365-6800
5050 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota (941) 355-7700
Beach Bistro
World-class dining, surfside on Anna Maria Island. Zagat has awarded Beach Bistro its highest rating for "Best Food" on the Gulf Coast. Beach Bistro is also winner of Florida Trends coveted "Golden Spoon" as one of the Top 20 restaurants in Florida and Wine Spectator's "Award of Excellence."
Menu Highlights
Appetizers
Bistro "kicker" grilled jumbo shrimp
Fresh lump blue crab martini
Foie gras on brioche bread pudding
Entrees
Bistro bouillabaisse
Rack of Colorado lamb
Floribbean grouper
Proprietor
Sean Murphy
6600 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach (941) 778-6444 www.beachbistro.com
Bella Roma Ristorante Italiano
Siesta Key's best-kept secret since 1991, Bella Roma Ristorante serves superb Italian cuisine in a romantic atmosphere. Menu includes homemade pasta, fresh seafood, veal, lamb, homemade bread and dessert. Extensive wine list, catering available. Open daily for dinner 5 p.m. until 10 p.m., lunch available for private parties. Summer hours may vary.
Menu Highlights
Appetizers
Red roast peppers with Parmesan cheese
Pasta and fagioli
Crostini di polenta-e-gorgonzola cheese
Entrees
Homemade lobster ravioli
Risotto with wild mushrooms
Bake sea bass al cartoccio
Veal chop valdostana
Chef/Owner
Flavio Cristofoli
5239 Ocean Blvd., Sarasota (941) 349-0995 www.bellaromaitalianrestaurant.com
The Bijour Cafe
In the heart of exciting downtown Sarasota, the Bijou Card has been impressing locals and visitors since 1986 with its sophisticated, charming decor, reminiscent of a European country inn. Impeccable yet unpretentious service and the award-winning cuisine of a chef-owned restaurant that has earned Zagat's top rating for the Gulf Coast and Wine Spectator's Award of Excellence.
Menu Highlights
Appetizers
Shrimp Piri-piri
Pate de foie de canard
Shrimp and crab bisque
Entrees
Chicken breast paillard
Chargrilled rack of Australian lamb demi-glace
Crab cakes remoulade
Black Angus steaks
Owners/Chef
Shay and Jean-Pierre Knaggs
1287 First St., Sarasota (941) 366-8111 www.bijoucafe.net
Bonefish Grill
Bonefish Grill backs style with substance. From the sleek interior to the chef's signature menu--including oak-grilled finfish and hand-cut beef--Bonefish Grill is stellar dining. Extensive wine and martini selection. Open for dinner at 4 p.m. seven days a week. Serving lunch at 11:30 a.m. Mother's Day and Father's Day.
Menu Highlights
Appetizers
Ahi tuna sashimi
Bang bang shrimp
Entrees
Pistachio parmesan-crusted rainbow trout
Tenderloin portabello piccata
Grilled fish--with your choice of lemon butter sauce, lime tomato garlic or a fresh mango salsa
Partners
Deen Fox
Cheryl Fletcher
3971 s. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota (941) 924-99090 8101 Cooper Creek Blvd., Sarasota (941) 360-3171 (at University Center)
Cafe Baci
Roberto Mei invites you to discover Cafe Baci's authentic Northern Italian cuisine and personal service. Featuring recipes refined over five generations, Cafe Baci was voted "Best Italian Restaurant" nine years in a row by SARASOTA Magazine and the Sarasota Herald-Tribune and received Zagat's award for 2002 and the Wine Spectator "Award of Excellence." Lunch weekdays, early bird specials and dinner daily.
Menu Highlights
Appetizers
Homemade mozzarella, basil and tomatoes
Sauteed shrimp in butter, garlic and herbs
Entrees
Angel hair pasta with fresh vegetable primavera
Veal Marsala with Roman mushrooms
Osso buco every Wednesday
Proprietor
Roberto Mei
4001 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota (941) 921-4848
Cafe Epicure
Downtown gourmets are raving about this very Continental bistro/deli/market/restaurant. Featuring pastas and entrees, hefty sandwiches, delicate desserts, specialty cheeses, meats and homemade breads and pastries. Extensive selection of wines by the glass.
Menu Highlights
Appetizers
Grilled radicchio with pancetta and smoked mozzarella
Air-dried beef with fennel and Parmesan
Sauteed shrimp with tomato and arugula
Entrees
Rigatoni with four cheeses and spinach
Pounded and fried chicken with arugula and tomatoes
Sliced New York strip with roasted potatoes and rosemary
Proprietors
Giovanni Migliorini and Daniele Baroni
1298 N. Palm Ave., Sarasota (941) 366-5648
Cafe L'Europe
The grande dame of area restaurants, Cafe L'Europe strikes the perfect balance between tradition and innovation, featuring creative menu choices that endure time and trend. Generations have relied upon Cafe L'Europe for gracious and attentive service, award-winning classical cuisine and world-class wines and spirits.
Menu Highlights
Appetizers
Shrimp a la greque
Escargot on open-faced crisp ravioli
Foie gras forestiere
Entrees
Whole dover sole meuniere
Brandied duckling with bing cherry cognac sauce
Veal Oscar with jumbo lump crab
Chateaubriand for two
General Manager
Bill Herlihy
Executive Chef
Keith Daum
431 St. Armands Circle, Sarasota (941) 388-4414
Cafe on the Bay
Nestled between the Gulf of Mexico and Sarasota Bay, Cafe on the Bay offers spectacular views of the marina and bay in an elegant, casual setting. Dine indoors or out. Featuring brunch Sunday 9 a.m.- 1 p.m. Dinner from 5:30 p.m. daily. It's what Florida dining is all about!
Menu Highlights
Appetizers
Lobster bisque
Oysters Bienville
Jambalaya
Entrees
Cedar planked sea bass
Lump crabcake with diver scallops & colossal shrimp
Lobster fritters
Steak Diane
General Manager
Bill Herlihy
Executive Chef
Keith Daum
2630 Harbourside Drive, Longboat Key (941) 383-0440 (Right at Bay Isles Parkway. Right at guard gate; second left for parking.)
Chart House
Offering a creative, flesh seafood menu, this local favorite features stunning views of New Pass and the Gulf of Mexico. Inside you'll find a rich and inviting atmosphere featuring exotic wood and original art, "all in an airy, contemporary" setting. Desserts include decadent chocolate lava cake, cooked to order and served warm. All major credit cards accepted.
Menu Highlights
Appetizers
Lobster spring rolls
Seared, peppered ahi tuna
Entrees
Spiced yellow fin ahi
Macadamia crusted tilapia
Herb crusted salmon
Slow-roasted prime rib
Bronzed snapper
201 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key (941) 383-5593 www.chart-house.com
Christopher's
Rising above Lido Key is Sarasota's newest destination for world-class cuisine. Christopher's inspired, eclectic menu features signature items prepared tableside amid views of the Gulf of Mexico and the Sarasota skyline. Extensive wine list and full-service catering available for on- and off-site events. Live entertainment in Christopher's Lounge.
Menu Highlights
Appetizers
Coral reef crab cakes
Tequila-marinated duckling
Garlic and white wine island escargot
Entrees
Chateaubriand
New Zealand rack of lamb carved tableside
Ahi sesame tuna in tomato and ancho chili puree
Sous Chef
Clinton Combs
Executive Chef
Darrell R. Mizell
Manager
Darryl 'DJ' Jones
700 Ben Franklin Drive, Lido Key (941) 388-5608 (Atop the Radisson Lido Beach Resort)
The Colony Dining Room
Sparkling Gulf-front views whet your appetite for the Gulf Coast's most sumptuous contemporary Continental cuisine. For more than 30 years, The Colony has set the standard for fine dining in Sarasota, and continues to impress guests with its innovative new menus, traditional favorites, award-winning wine list and impeccable service. Open daily for lunch and dinner and brunch on Sunday.
Menu Highlights
Appetizers
LBK shrimp and jumbo lump crabmeat martini
Seared Hudson Valley foie gras
Traditional Caesar salad (prepared tableside)
Entrees
Double thick Colorado lamb chops
Medallions of veal Colony
Snapper Colony
Grilled prime New York strip
Herb-crusted chargrilled grouper
Chairman
Dr. Murf Klauber
President/General Manager
Katie Klauber Moulton
1620 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key (941) 383-5558
Columbia Restaurant
For nearly a century, the Columbia Restaurant has earned international acclaim for its old-world charm and consistently outstanding Spanish cuisine. The Hernandez/Gonzmart family has created an award-winning restaurant that is unequaled for its fresh Gulf of Mexico seafood, choice cuts of beef', century-old family recipes--and the freshest stone crabs in town. Outdoor dining available.
Menu Highlights
Appetizers
Shrimp al ajillo
Calamares a la Romana
Cuban black bean soup
World-famous 1905 salad
Entrees
Paella a la Valenciana
Red snapper Alicante
Filet mignon Columbia
Chicken and shrimp Barcelona
Proprietors
Casey and Richard Gonzmart
411 St. Armands Circle, Sarasota (941) 388-3987
Cosimo's Brick Oven
Voted one of the "Best New Restaurants" by SARASOTA Magazine readers and named "Best New Restaurant" by the Sarasota Herald-Tribune. Enjoy meals prepared in a wood-fired oven and an awed-winning wine list. Full bar and friendly, attentive service, with private parries welcome. Corporate catering available. Lunch and dinner seven days a week. Open until 10 p.m., Sundays until 8 p.m. Summer hours may vary.
Menu Highlights
Appetizers
Asian chicken salad
Stuffed portobello mushroom
Entrees
Porcini ravioli with saffron Alfredo sauce
Grilled pork chops with mango chutney
Grilled salmon with basil cirrus sauce
Herb roasted chicken
3501 S. Tamiami Trail, Suite 201, Saragota (941) 363-0211 (U.S. 41 and Bee Ridge Road, inside Southgate Plaza)
DaRuMa
Enter the exciting, fascinating and delicious world of DaRuMa, where expertly trained chefs perform feats of classic Teppan-style cooking at your table. Along with traditional favorites, delight in innovative combinations featuring sauteed shrimp, teriyaki steak, seafood, tempura, sushi and much more. Enjoy sunset specials with a breathtaking view of the bay.
Menu Highlights
Appetizers
Tuna
Yakatori
Quay roll
Entrees
Filet mignon and lobster
Sesame chicken
DaRuMa obento-sashimi, gyoza, filet mignon teriyaki and shrimp tempura
Proprietors
Hsin-Ting Chang
Tony Chang
US 41 and Fruitville Road, Sarasota (941) 951-2440 (Sarasota Quay)
Fred's
Sarasota's place to seal the deal. Voted by Florida Trend as one of Florida's top 20 newcomers. Fred's is a unique gathering place. Discover an eclectic mix of signature American and international delights in a casually elegant setting. Enhance your dining experience with wines carefully selected by in-house advanced sommelier Graham Thomson--recognized with the Wine Spectator 2003 "Best of" Award of Excellence. Proudly offering lunch, brunch and dinner daily.
Menu Highlights
Appetizers
Avocado crab Napoleon
Espresso-crusted tuna tataki
Entrees
Pan-roasted sea bass with saffron and exotic mushroom risotto
Pan-fried crab cake with coconut rice
Apple cider bacon
1917 S. Osprey Ave., Sarasota (941) 364-5811 (Southside Village)
Hemingway's Retreat
A window into the romantic past--cozy, classy and fun. Celebrating 15 years of success as one of Florida's most popular restaurants, Hemingway's is St. Armands' destination for the upscale casual experience, attracting a worldwide following. Enjoy the freshest seafood, prime steaks and light tropical fare with a friendly and efficient staff in a warm, relaxing atmosphere.
Menu Highlights
Appetizers
Cabana tuna sashimi
Hemingway's appetizer trio
Entrees
Grouper Oscar
Key West pepper steak
Islamorada chicken
325 John Ringling Blvd., St. Armands Circle (941) 388-3948
Lido Grille
An American bistro with a unique, eclectic blend of new American and classic cuisine. Have lunch or dinner in a casual, kid-friendly, island atmosphere, featuring fresh Florida seafood and Black Angus steaks.
Menu Highlights
Appetizers
Bruschetta with olive and goat cheese tapanade
Asiago crab dip with pita bread
Entrees
Ginch's lump crab cake with voodoo remoulade
Pan-seared ahi tuna with seaweed salad
Fresh grouper topped with passion cirrus coulis
326 John Ringling Blvd., St. Armands (941) 388-0155
Maureen's Palm Grille
One of Longboat Key's luxuries, just 15 minutes from downtown Sarasota. Steve Horn, chef/owner, creates seafood and meat specialties that have been consistently popular and nationally recognized for 26 years. Al fresco dining provides a beautiful backdrop to the contemporary dining room. Hospitality, wines, signature martinis mid professional service.
Menu Highlights
Appetizers
Tuna Napoleon
Blueberry/goat cheese salad
Garlic and crab soup
Entrees
Osso buco
Bisticca Tuscany
Bouillabaisse
Lobster and crab Caribbean
5350 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, (941) 383-7774 (Longboat Key Centre Shops) www.restaurantmaureen.com
Mediterraneo
Amid Sarasota's tropical charms, Mediterraneo transports you to the elegance of Milan, Florence and Rome. This chic Northern Italian trattoria, nestled within the heart of downtowns bustling arts district, blends casual sophistication with the masterful use of fresh ingredients to create the flavors and aromas of great Italian cuisine. Attentive service and attractive prices for lunch, brunch or dinner.
Menu Highlights
Appetizers
Sauteed shrimp with white beans and onions
Air dried beef with grilled eggplant and goat cheese
Entrees
Breaded veal chop with arugula and diced tomato
Linguine with mixed seafood
Proprietors
Giovanni Migliorini and Daniele Baroni
1970 Main St., Sarasota (941) 365-4122
Saltwater Cafe
Chef Roll presents his New Florida Kitchen with a European flair! Offering the area's largest variety of fresh seafood, pasta, steak and pizzas in a casual atmosphere. Open daily for lunch and dinner (and Sunday brunch). Raw bar and full bar, happy hour daily, weekend live entertainment; banquet room and reservations available.
Menu Highlights
Appetizers
Baked brie in puff pastry
Oysters romanoff
She-crab soup
Entrees
Six fresh fish, 19 preparation styles
Certified Angus beef[R]
Lobster pizza
Executive Chef/Owner
Roll Zahnd
Owner
Katharina Zahnd
1071 N. Tamiami Trail (U.S. 41 & Laurel), Nokomis (941) 488-3775 www.saltwatercafe.com
Silver Cricket
Eclectic, bold Euro-Asian fusion cuisine, a touch of French with the flair of the Orient. Fiery passion for heavenly food and impeccable service with a warm human touch make Silver Cricket special. Come and experience what everyone is talking about.
Menu Highlights
Appetizers
Rare bronzed ahi tuna
Crabmeat sushi with blanched asparagus
Entrees
Garlic Sichuan peppercorn rack of lamb
Lobster and filer mignon
Shanghai shrimp
Oriental paella
Proprietors
Hsin-Ting Chang
Tony Chang
1923 Ringling Blvd. (Links Plaza), Downtown Sarasota (941) 955-9179
Two Senoritas
Two Senoritas is a family restaurant dedicated to serving the finest foods of the Southwest. With locations in the heart of downtown and in northern Sarasota, you can sample homemade Tex-Mex for lunch or dinner seven days a week. Enjoy the casual atmosphere and popular prices for your next meal. Two great locations
Menu Highlights
Appetizers
Guacamole salad
Nachos
Ceviche
Entrees
Chicken, beef or shrimp fajitas
Chipotle enchilada dinner
Tacos al pastor
Proprietor
Cheryl Woodruff
1355 Main St., Downtown Sarasota (941) 366-1618 6290 N. Lockwood Ridge, Sarasota (941) 351-5533 Fax: (941) 365-7272
15 South Ristorante Enoteca
St. Armands' most charming dining room and the hottest spot for live music. Enjoy an extensive menu of Italian specialties and wines. Upstairs, enjoy the martini bar and dance until 2 a.m. with live Latino, jazz and rhythm and blues nightly.
15 S. Boulevard of the Presidents, St. Armands (941) 388-1555
Big Kitchen Restaurant & Deli
Featuring authentic Jewish dishes like corned beef, beef brisket and short ribs, rib steaks, skirt steaks, homemade matzo ball soup and sourdough rye bread. Big Kitchen offers an extensive, award-winning menu, fresh bakery and deli items, a full bar, take-out and catering
3900 Clark Road, Sarasota (941) 925-3675
The Broken Egg
A local favorite, Siesta Key's Broken Egg has consistently been voted one of Sarasota's best breakfast spots. You'll also delight in its fabulous luncheon menu, freshly baked-in-house desserts, creative catering services and art gallery. Open daily from 7:30 a.m.
210 Avenida Madera, Siesta Key (941) 346-2750
www.thebrokenegg.com
Bangkok Restaurant
Sarasota's most popular Thai cuisine ... Voted "Best of the Best" by SARASOTA Magazine, "Reader's Choice" by the Herald-Tribune and "Excellent" by Zagat for 10 years in a row. All major credit cards accepted.
4791 Swift Road, Sarasota (941) 922-0703 (Corner of Swift and Proctor Roads)
Boathouse at the Hyatt Marina
Sarasota's landmark waterfront restaurant for 27 years. Casual dining and sparkling bay views complement selections of fresh seafood and regional American cuisine.
C'est la Vie!
Voted "Best French Restaurant," this authentic French bakery and cafe is open for breakfast and lunch. Offering French specialties, quiches, crepes, omelets, salads and sandwiches. The best croissants in town, baked daily] Dinner served November-March.
1553 Main St., Sarasota (941) 906-9575
Cafe Amici
The definitive festive trattoria, loved by locals and friends alike. This treasure offers classic regional Italian specialties served in a casual family atmosphere. Acclaimed by the Bradenton Herald, SARASOTA Magazine and the Sarasota Herald-Tribune.
1371 Main St., Sarasota (941) 951-6896
www.cafeamicirestaurant.com
Captain Brian's
Now celebrating its 20th anniversary! Daily selections of Florida's freshest seafood have earned this local favorite Florida Trend's Golden Spoon Award, an excellent rating by Zagat, and a spot in "Best of the Best." Also voted one of the state's top 250 restaurants.
8441 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota (941) 351-4492
Chutney's, Etc.
Award-winning Middle Eastern, Greek and Indian cuisine. Chutney's offers delectable dishes such as hummus, spanakopita, falafel, Greek salad, moussaka, Indian curries and vegetarian specialties. Chutney's--where spice is the variety of life.
1944 Hillview St., Sarasota (941) 954-4444
Cafe of the Arts
Sarasota's award-winning brasserie introduces Jean-Luc Taulere, joining his father Alain as the eighth-generation restaurateur in this auspicious culinary family. Experience the sophisticated lounge, inventive continental cuisine and classic French favorites. Savor the difference!
5230 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota (941) 351-4304
Caragiulos
For more than 15 years the Caragiulo family has hosted Sarasota's favorite Italian trattoria. Savor Sarasota's best gourmet pizzas and pastas amid Palm Avenue's historic arts district. Discover why Zagat Guide calls this a "charming, cozy gem."
69 S. Palm Ave., Sarasota (941) 951-0866
www.carigiulosrestaurant.com
Cuoco Matto
Everything from handmade pizza baked in an authentic woodburning oven to world-class, new-style Tuscan cuisine is prepared daily by Cuoco Matto's award-winning chef in this exuberant, lighthearted dining atmosphere. Open lunch and dinner.
1603 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota (941) 365-0000
Demetrio's Restaurant & Pizza
For 29 years, family-owned Demerrio's has offered traditional, homemade Greek and Italian specialties in this family-style restaurant. Also named one of Sarasota's "Best of the Best" for affordable, classic pizza.
4410 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota (941) 922-1585
II Panifico
Pizza, focaccia, stromboli, calzones ... made with the freshest ingredients, baked in brick ovens. Visit their full-service dell and Italian market featuring authentic wines, beers, oils and vinegars, and delicious homemade breads. Catering available.
1703 Main St., Sarasota (941) 366-5570
Le Parigot
Come and enjoy the casual elegance of this bistro-style restaurant with traditional French cuisine. Its Parisian decor and music will make you feel like you are in Paris for the evening, without the inconvenience of traveling that far!
6551 Gateway Ave., Sarasota (941) 922-9115
Fish Tales
Come and sample some of the area's finest selection offish, along with some of the best crab cakes in Florida, at this flesh seafood restaurant and market. Voted one of Sarasota's best restaurants for seafood.
6331 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota (941) 925-1135
Island's End
The Beach Bistro's banquet house, at the north end of Anna Maria Island, just steps from the beach. Perfect for weddings and special parties. SARASOTA Magazine's "magical" location for a Beach Bistro "perfect food" party.
10101 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria (941) 779-2444
www.bistroatislandsend.com
The Lobster Pot
A taste of Cape Cod in Siesta Key Village, offering authentic New England seafood for lunch and dinner, including lobster rolls, steamers, award-winning lobster bisque and lobster duchess. Dine inside or on the patio. Catering and take-out available.
5157 Ocean Blvd., Sarasota (941) 349-2323
www.sarasota-lobsterport.com
Lynches Pub & Grub
After 17 years on Longboat Key, sisters Ethna and Chris Lynch decided to bring the real spirit of Ireland to St. Armands by serving great food in a friendly neighborhood pub atmosphere. Famous for their Cork cottage pie, grouper sandwich, fish and chips, Belfast burger, Irish smoked salmon and homemade desserts. Stop in for a bite, a beer and a chat. Open daily 11 a.m. to midnight.
19 B.N. Boulevard of Presidents, St. Armands (941) 388-5550
Margarita Mateo's
Authentic Mexican cuisine has arrived on "The Circle" with this festive St. Armands rooftop cantina. Sip tangy, margaritas and feast on sizzling grilled sirloin fajitas or other traditional Mexican favorites.
320 John Ringling Blvd., St. Armands Circle
(941) 388-0325
Mattison's City Grille
Where downtown al fresco dining meets distinctive European flair. Critics are raving about chef Paul Martison's tapas style menu, extensive wine list, beer selection and fresh brick oven pizzas. Cigar menu and live music nightly.
One N. Lemon Ave., Sarasota (941) 330-0440
(At Main Street) www.mattisons.com
Main Street Bistro
Enjoy relaxed dining in the cosmopolitan bistro style, amidst unique lighting and creative interior design. Enjoy a wide selection of creative dishes from their lunch and dinner menus. A full bar, martinis and extensive wine list are available. Valet parking. Piano bar.
1345 Main St., Sarasota, FL (941) 362-4427
www.mainstreetbistor.net
Located on Sarasota's downtown bayfront, the second-level restaurant features an extensive selection of fresh seafood, pasta and steaks. Downstairs, enjoy live entertainment and libations nightly in the Deep Six piano bar, or dine from the water in the new dinner boat.
2 Marina Plaza, Sarasota, FL 34236 (941) 365-4232
The Monkey Room and Bar
The Colony's fun and casual indoor/outdoor restaurant and bar, featuring creative dishes with island influences and amazing views of the Gulf of Mexico. Live entertainment nightly. Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
1620 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key (941) 383-5558
Morel
Award-winning chef/owner Fredy Mayer brings his experience in the world's finest restaurants and hotels to Sarasota, with sophisticated and tantalizing cuisine. The service and atmosphere are warm and friendly in this smoke-flee environment. Reservations suggested.
3809 S. Tuttle Ave., Sarasota (941) 927-8716
Ophelia's Pasta House
Casual, classic Italian cuisine in a warm, family atmosphere. Specializing in veal, chicken and seafood, plentiful pastas and homemade desserts. Full bar. Happy hour 4-7 p.m. daily. Private dining room for parties and special events. Priority call-ahead seating and carry out available.
1097A N. Tamiami Trail, Nokomis (941) 486-4131 (Nokomis Village Shopping Plaza)
Pacific Rim
Voted "Best of the Best" by SARASOTA Magazine, "Best Japanese Restaurant," "Best Sushi" by the Herald-Tribune 2002 and a Zagat winner for 2001. Specializing in authentic Thai and Japanese cuisine. Featuring sushi, tempura, woks and grilled entrees.
1859 Hillview St., Sarasota (941) 330-8071, (941) 330-0218
Nelli's Deli, Market and Catering
"Simple or elegant, simply the best." Nellie's serves up overstuffed sandwiches, party trays and dinners to go at great prices. Plus, award-winning full-service catering, "Box lunch to black tie."
3688 Webber St., Sarasota (941) 924-2705
Oriental Buffet
Sarasota's biggest, newest and best Oriental buffet, with more than 200 items to choose from at their all-you-can-eat 80-foot buffet counter. Crab legs featured nightly, and children 4-9 years eat at reduced prices. Watch Mongolian and sushi chefs prepare your food!
4458 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota (941) 377-6699
Panera Bread
Fresh-baked bread and pastries. Award-winning salads, soups and gourmet sandwiches. Specialty drinks. Catering menu.
Sarasota Pavilion, Sarasota (941) 924-0800 (Formerly Gulf Gate Mall)
University Parkway at Tuttle, Sarasota (941) 351-9300 (University Walk Shopping Center)
Patrick's
Come see why Sarasota's favorite downtown gathering spot, with its casual dining and New York flair, was voted "Best Bar," "Best Burger" and "Best Restaurant to Seal the Deal" for 2003. Full menu served daily from 11 a.m.-midnight. Valet parking available.
1400 Main St., Sarasota (941) 952-1170
Pino's Primi Piatti
This cozy New York-style Italian bistro bristles with energy as patrons jostle for views of the bayfront marina and an authentic selection of pasta, seafood, veal, chicken and bed; plus wines by the glass or bottle. Open Monday-Saturday, and Sunday for private parries. Reservations recommended.
1301 Main St., Sarasota (941) 955-3739
Saga Japanese Steakhouse
Saga ... authentic Japanese cuisine prepared exactly the way they love it in Japan. Enjoy the entertaining art of Teppan-style cooking at your hibachi table. Exciting and delicious entrees, sushi and 20 appetizers.
8383 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota (941) 924-2800 (Square South, one block south of Sarasota Square Mall)
Phillippi Creek Village Oyster Bar
This Sarasota tradition is "The Place to Go" for casual, waterfront dining, both indoors and out. Come experience its tropical setting, family atmosphere, and the freshest in Northern seafood and local, daily catch specials.
5353 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota (941) 925-4444
www.creekseafood.com
Primo!
Homemade Italian cuisine ar Primo!, where the spirit of Italy lives. Savor pizza from a wood-burning oven, prime veal cuts, steaks, fresh seafood and spectacular desserts. Exceptional wine list and private banquet facilities. Catering available. Established 1986.
8076 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota (941) 359-3690
www.primo-ristorante.com
SunDance Catering
From corporate office lunches to elegant weddings, Sundance Catering can assist with delicious food and stress-free arrangements. Offering uncompromising quality and visually appealing fare. For all occasion buffets, box lunches, and gift baskets.
243 Field End St., Sarasota (941) 341-0803
Thai Garden Restaurant
A "Best Thai Restaurant" winner for 2002--Reader's Choice, Sarasota Herald-Tribune. Serving authentic Thai specialties like roast duckling, lava shrimp and Siam chicken, all prepared to delectable perfection. Open for lunch and dinner.
4804 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota (941) 922-0032
www.3clix.com/cities/sarasota.nsf
Tropical Thai Restaurant
Enjoy authentic Thai cuisine, complete with tantalizing aromas and dramatic flavors prepared mild, medium or spicy hot as you specify. A total dining experience of Thai specialties, soups, vegetarian, and macrobiotic selections.
1420 Main St., Sarasota (941) 364-5775
Yoder's
A Sarasota tradition since 1975 for made-from-scratch Amish home cooking. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, this cozy restaurant is best known for its comfort food and award-winning homemade pies. Voted "Best Meal Under $10" and "Best Dessert."
3434 Bahia Vista St., Sarasota (941) 955-7771
TooJay's Gourmet Deli Restaurant & Bakery
Winner of numerous "best of" awards, TooJay's is reminiscent of your favorite New York delicatessen. Specialties range from signature overstuffed sandwiches and chicken noodle soup to Nova salmon, Reuben sandwiches, potato pancakes and cheese blintzes. Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
3501 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota (941) 362-3692 (Westfield Shoppingtown-Southgate)
Troyer's Dutch Heritage
"An old tradition in a new setting." Since 1969, Troyer's Dutch Heritage has served traditional Amish family- and buffet-style meals, scrumptious bakery pastries and more than 20 pies. Gift shop on second floor. Monday-Saturday 6 a.m.-8 p.m.
3713 Bahia Vista St., Sarasota (941) 955-8007
Zak's Steakhouse
Now you can enjoy some of the best steaks in Sarasota in the cozy, comfortable and intimate setting of an elegant Palm Avenue address. Zak's offers a sumptuous menu of beef, lamb, poultry and seafood, complemented by an impressive wine selection and nightly desserts. Outdoor dining at its best.
1213 N. Palm Ave., Sarasota (941) 906-7300
A directory of fine dining
AMERICAN
68 Big Kitchen 925-3675 A E
45 Boathouse at the Hyatt Marina 363-BOAT (2628) A B D
63 The Broken Egg 346-2750 A E
4 Care on the Bay 383-0440 A D E
10 Hemingway's Retreat 388-3948 A E
41 Marina Jack 365-4232 A B C D E
31 Mattison City Grille 330-0440 A B C E
66 Panera Bread (Sarasota Pavilion) 924-0800 A E
21 Panera Bread (University Parkway) 351-9300 A E
34 Patrick's 952-1170 A B C E
50 TooJay's Gourmet Deft Restaurant & Bakery 362-3692
25 Troyer's Dutch Heritage 955-8007
26 Yoder's Restaurant 955-7771 A E
CATERING
24 Sundance Catering 341-0803
CONTINENTAL
1 Beach Bistro 778-6444 A B C D E
43 Bijou Care 366-8111 A B C E
39 Care Epicure 366-5648 A E
9 Cafe L'Europe 388-4415 A B C E
5 The Colony Dining Room 383-5558 A B C D E
2 Island's End 779-2444 C D
38 Main Street Bistro 362-4427
3 Maureen's Palm Grill 383-7774 E
6 The Monkey Room and Bar 383-5558 A B C D E
52 Morel 927-8716 A E
DELI/MARKET
54 Nellie's Deli, Market & Catering 924-2705 A E
ECLECTIC
15 Christopher's 380-5608 C D
49 Fred's 364-5811 A C
11 Lido Grille 388-0155 A C E
FRENCH
30 C'est La Vie! 906-9575 A D E
17 Cafe of the Arts 351-4304 C E
67 Le Parigot 922-9115
FUSION
28 Silver Cricket 955-9179 A B C E
GREEK
48 Chutney's, Etc. 954-4444 A E
59 Demetrio's Restaurant & Pizza 922-1585 E
IRISH
13 Lynches Pub & Grub 388-5550 A E
ITALIAN
14 15 South 388-1555 A E
35 Bacco's Ristorante Italiano 365-7380 B C E
62 Bella Roma Ristorante Italiano 349-0995 A E
36 Cafe Amici 951-6896 A E
58 Cafe Baci 921-4048 A C E
42 Caragiulos 951-0866 A C E
51 Cosimo's Brick 0ven 363-0211 A
16 Guano Matte 365-0000 A C E
29 Il Panificio 366-5570 E
27 Mediterraneo 365-4122 B C E
70 Ophelia's Pasta House 486-4131 C
40 Pino's Primi Piatti 955-3739
20 Primo! 359-3690 A C E
JAPANESE / ORIENTAL
46 DaRuMa 951-2440 A B D E
55 Oriental Buffet 377-6699 C E
69 Saga Japanese Steakhouse 924-2800 A E
MEXICAN
12 Margarita Mateo's 388-0325 A C
37 Two Senoritas (Main Street) 366-1618 A E
22 Two Senoritas (University Parkway) 351-5533 A E
MISCELLANEOUS
A Jet Share 358-5533
B Mullet's Appliances 921-5531
SEAFOOD
53 Barnacle Bill's Seafood (Webber Street) 923-5800 A C
32 Barnacle Bill's Seafood (Main Street) 365-6800 A C
16 Barnacle Bill's Seafood (North Trail) 365-7700 A C
57 Bonefish Grill (South Trail) 924-9090 A C
23 Bonefish Grill (University Center) 360-3171 A D
10 Captain Brian's 351-4492 A E
7 Chart House 383-5593 A C D E
65 Fish Tales 925-1135 A B E
61 The Lobster Pot 349-2323 C
64 Phillippi Creek Village Oyster Bar 925-4444 A D E
SPANISH
8 Columbia Restaurant 388-3987 A C E
STEAKHOUSE
44 Zak's Steakhouse 906-7300 B C
STEAK/SEAFOOD
71 Saltwater Cafe 488-3775 A C E
THAI
56 Bangkok Restaurant 922-0703 A E
47 Pacific Rim 330-8017, 330-0218 A E
60 Thai Garden 922-0032 A E
33 Tropical Thai 364-5775 A E
Legend
Private Rooms A
Heart Healthy B
Waterfront Dining C
Valet Parking D
Handicapped Accessible E
Every effort is made to provide up-to-date information; please check your telephone directory for any numbers or information not listed here.
Primary photographers for this section: Greg Wilson, Jim Enos, Matt McCourtney and Alex Stafford.
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| Publication: | Sarasota Magazine |
|---|---|
| Date: | Nov 1, 2003 |
| Words: | 4987 |
| Previous Article: | Q & A with JoAnn Urofsky. |
| Next Article: | Cafe society: why Longboat insiders love Cafe on the Bay, plus two new casual Italian eateries, and more. |