Where did this place come from?  Indeed, Frugali was a pleasant surprise tucked away as it is in a tiny strip mall near the airport.  It features a creative chef who uses fresh ingredients, cordial waiters, a charming cozy atmosphere ... and bargain prices.

Table service and Food was good,vbut after dinner when we received our checks we decided to order another drink since it was raining outside. We were given our after dinner drinks and within minutes we were told by the owner that we would have to vacate our table for the next reservation. We asked why we were not told to leave before ordering after dinner drinks and got no answer. I guess table turnover is more important than client service .

Finally, an Italian beef and Chicago hot dog in Sarasota that taste like the real thing. Food is awesome--I am going back for more.

Basically a stripped down PF Changs without the ambience or caliber of food.  While PF Changs focused on upscale Chinese, Pei Wei tries to do a little bit of everything and most of it seems mediocre at best.  The good news is that there are some items lifted directly off of the PF Changs menu and these work great.

I disagree with the other reviews, I dined in earlier today and really enjoyed it. The staff was incredibly friendly and very attentive. The food was generous portions and smoked with a great flavor. I really liked the Wild Hog sandwich, it was pulled pork and chicken mixed with their sweet and original sauce on texas toast. Their happy hour from 3-7 was awesome as well, with 2 for drafts and wells. Couldn't be beat. I will be back.

Being a southern born native, I expect alot from a BBQ place. I was not let down at this one. I had the beef brisket (which was so tender it could be cut with a fork) with Baked Beans and Fries. This is what BBQ should be. Dry rub, slow smoked meats, not drowned in sauce. Overall I have to say it was exactly what I was looking for. I will be back to the Wild Hog.

Food is mediocre, chips were soggy and tasted like they fried them in old grease.  They are very cheap with their salsa, squirting out little bits at a time as not to kill their profit.  1st basket of chips, actually a 1/2 basket, is free after that you pay for them.  Most restaurants that I have seen do this very quickly go out of business.  Based on their prices, which we thought was higher than most Mexican restaurants in this area should cover a basket of chips and some salsa.  The salsa is o.k. but as thin as water, not chunky at all.  I give Burrito's about a 5.5 out of 10.  I won't go back.

St. Louis Ribs were over-smoked, too dry and hopelessly stringy, the "Wild Hawg sandwich (minced pork/chicken) was o.k. but not memorable, sides were mushy and ordinary and the fries were slimy & greasy - though fresh-cut, when you ask for them to be double-dropped, extra crispy you shouldn't get that. The wait staff and bartender were sweet and helpful but the bored-looking, apathetic kitchen help could obviously give a rat's *ss and it shows . . . too bad, I drive past it twice a day and SRQ could use a decent BBQ joint. This hog ain't wild, it's mired in the mud.. ...MORE

The smell of smoke was promising crossing the parking lot and entering the restaurant. Unfortunately it seems that the smoke permeated the air more than the meat we were served.
I tried the Brisket and the Pulled Pork and I must say that for smoked meat, there really wasn't any smoke flavor, not to mention hardly a smoke ring on either cut of meat. Either it was cooked over too high of a temp in the smoke with low/no smoke, or it was "smoked" for a few hours and then placed in an oven to finish off..... ...MORE

: We loved this place.  We were visiting friends in Sarasota, who were excited to try something new, and wound up thrilled that Polo Grill had opened -- a new hip place to go.  Lively, with great food (many 'eater friendly' selections) -- nicely presented, pretty delicious actually. The short ribs were fabulous! Nice inviting decor, and happy people -- even the servers... ...MORE

What a great place for steak and more. Chef "Quack" is terrific and knows just what to do to make the dinner SPECIAL!.. ...MORE

I love this restaurant. Food and service are great and prices are great.. ...MORE

Heard about Cafe Gabbiano's, had to try it for myself.  A total first class dining expirience all the way around ... first class service, affordable prices, Italian atmosphere, Inside/outside seating options, great Italian wine list and a pounded out veal parmesnana that was out of this world ... best I have ever had, anywhere (including mom's)!  I would consider flying down from Ohio just to dine at Gabbiano's again. Thanks Peter and Susan!. ...MORE

Dinner was disappointing at best.  On a Wednesday night we arrived with only two other tables full, and waited and waited for mediocre french food.  The guests at the next table wound up singing a song requesting that their dinner be served sometime that evening.  Understanding that Chez Sylvie has limited resources for organic foods, we were still surprised when we did not get even a short wine list when requested, but asked if we liked "...red or white."   ....MORE

This is it...this is why people live here. Great food, fun atmosphere and the best beachside dining we've experienced since moving to Sarasota 3 years ago.Spend a couple extra dollars and go to The Colony Dining Room for a really special night! ....MORE

Excellent night at The Colony last week. The food and wines just get better every time you go. Amazing sunset, best view of the water and service like you're in a classic New York fine dining establishment. A real sophisticated but comfortable spot.  ....MORE

Just went back to Pacific Rim last week after not being there for a while. Still has excellent sushi, well-prepared dishes and a nice selection. Service seems to be hired for their looks and not their skills though! That's my only complaint.  ....MORE

It was OK.  They purport to sell Cajun/Creole food but it is very far from authentic.  They are from Cleveland.  I had the muffuletta.  It wasn't even close.  It was a good sandwich and if it had been marketed as something else I may have enjoyed it more.  I was expecting a muffuletta and was disappointed.   ....MORE

If you want truly good food that is also healthful, give Sylvie a try. Sylvie is very passionate about food quality, and her cooking is deliciously french.  The service is also nice, and you will be quite comfy in her pillowy booths and calm French atmosphere.  More natives and visitors of Sarasota should give this restaurant a try.  It is really rare that any city has an organic, upscale establishment of any kind.  Especially one that is this good!!!   ....MORE

This place is pretty awesome.  You will not have a meal this nice almost anywhere.  The ambience is good too, and I found the food to be very authentic.  It is also organic, which is important to some people.  ....MORE

I know French food very well, as I am a chef in Atlanta.  I am also from a country colonized by the French, so I can tell you that this is real French food.  It is also delicious-quite a treat.  The prices are reasonable if you consider what you get, which is great, healthy food in a very cultured, comfortable environment.  ....MORE

High quality cuisine served in a warm family owned restaurant. Feels like you are in France. Highly recommend this quaint, intimate spot. Fish and Shrimp are our favorite but diverse menu suits any palate.  ... MORE

Amazing!  Always consistent. Very pleasant help and service. Take out is wonderful also. ... MORE

We've got a lot of italian restaurants in town but just few of them are real authentic Italian. I went to Amici's for the first time and I discover the traditional Italian food is there, ambiance, great food, fun. We are so happy to have another place to go out for dine. ... MORE

Greatest sushi and service in town. ... MORE

Fresh, excellently prepared food and lots of it. You will not go away hungry and you will not hurt your pocketbook! Marie and Executive chef Bill Wells make you feel like part of the family when dining here! Great early bird and creativity in the kitchen lead for happy customers who return again and again! ... MORE

I think now this is the best Mexican restaurant in Sarasota, for different reasons. The place is so clean, the decoration is incredible so Mexican, food is delicious, service is friendly, prices are very affordable!! music , as they say on the ad, new, chic and affordable, You need to visit them, I highly recommend it. MORE

Good, but no. Not top 20 material in this amazing dining town. Great sit-down burger place...but come on now, it's just not there. I'll go back...but it's just not top 20.  Wake up Sarasota diners...stop with the jokes! ... MORE

Great food, great service and great prices. Very enjoyable we will be back....MORE

This is the new best kept secret, the food most delicious and authentic. The service is a little bit slow and there is a lack of the English language as well. But the overall experience is pleasant. And if it means anything, this is where the locals dine, which counts very much for the food...MORE

I had never heard of Tapas, so I decided to try out the Seahorse International Tapas Grille while on vacation. It was excellent! The food was so exquisite and tasty. ...MORE

The food and service are excellent. The atmosphere is very friendly and we always have fun here. ...MORE

Shakespeare's is a warm, inviting, friendly English pub with great pub food. The highlight: homemade soups! They are incredible. The burgers are great, too. The only reason I don't eat the tantalizing beer/cheese dip is because it has so many calories. I've tasted it many times, though, and it is late night food nirvana. Shakespeare's has a long bar, perfect for talking to strangers. It's also a nice place to bring family earlier in the night. The atmosphere is great, the owners are wonderful - JUST GO THERE! MORE

The pizzas are often good, although sometimes a little undercooked. The pasta is OK but not al dente as often as you'd like. The atmosphere is nice and the friendly management is a plus. ...MORE

Sooo good. The true Florida beachside experience. Definitely one of the best places to have a fine meal, cocktails and enjoy the best sunset. ...MORE

Best BBQ in Southwest Florida!! You have to try the Mac 'n Cheese and the smoked wings. ...MORE

I would have never believed to find such a Rodeo Drive quality restaurant in a Key West-esque area! The service was very professional and relaxed the food exquisite and authentic. Much of this unique atmosphere can be attributed to the close family of Mama and her sons, who I was surprised to find right in the kitchen hard at work, dishing out some of the best food and best dining experience I ever had on Florida’s west coast!!! ...MORE

This is a new gem for Sarasota tucked away in a shopping area experiencing a rival. Owner and chef, Luca, prepares delicious, ample portions of favorites as well as creative dishes. Luca even visits each table to make certain the food and service is to your liking. ...MORE

What an amazing view! We watched the sun set from the rooftop directly overlooking the Gulf of Mexico! The food was casual, but very good and the servers were friendly and a pleasure to speak with. ...MORE

I've been to Roy's Restaurant in New York City....and I must say it was top-notch. The entrees were beautifully presented, creative and very sumptuous. The atmosphere, exotic and comfortable. ...MORE

Paul Duffy and Bobby Vessey are the best keepers of the Irish song, the food its is great, Guinness stew fantastic! The Guinness is on tap... awesome flavor! They are fantastic hosts make you feel like family! ...MORE

A great casual restaurant in the 50's style. The onion rings are to die for and the chocolate shakes are the perfect beverage. ...MORE

Paul Duffy is the best one man show in the area. His partner, Bob Vesey isn’t bad either. The bottom line is that the food is good, the beer is cold, the staff is friendly and the live show is the best in town. Don’t miss going to this pub. You’ll keep on coming back. ...MORE

The food here was delicious!! The portions were well worth the price and the quality of the food was fantastic. I would recommend this restaurant to anybody who likes good service and a classy environment! ...MORE

The home made chips are worth the price. Very fresh and crisp. The grilled chicken over penne pasta with alfredo sauce was excellent. Light, creamy alfredo and good portions. ...MORE

We were recently on holiday in Sarasota and dined at Nosh-A-Rye. We thought the whole experience was wonderful. The children could run around on the patio outside without bothering anybody. The food was excellent and you could not fault the service. ...MORE

This is one of my favorite restaurants. Although we only make it there once every other month, the staff remembers us; we feel we are treated like long lost family! Service is impeccable and the food has always been excellent. ...MORE

Being an Italian American from New York City and also a former chef, I am very picky on where I eat Italian food. I must say, me and my wife eat at Café Epicure as often as possible after we decided to eat for lunch one day while strolling along Main Street in Sarasota. ...MORE

We love Primo. We go there for all of our family get togethers’ (birthdays, holidays, etc.) It’s very family friendly. Love the fra diavolo, pizzas, prime rib gorgonzola. Huge portions and great food! ...MORE

No complaints about anything. A "must dine" restaurant. Innovative, creative and clever. It's about time Sarasota got a big city restaurant.!...MORE

My wife and I have been to Cafe Gabbiano many times. The food is excellent and the atmosphere is delightful. We have occasionally had a problem with the service, however. Once it was so slow that I thought we would be having breakfast before we got our dinner. On another occasion we got our food before we finished our salad. ...MORE

Derek's is simple elegance. The interior of the restaurant is painted in bold brown and gold tones, with sparse decoration, and simple furnishings. It is a clean palate that takes in the colors of its patrons. The food is presented as simpler dishes, all with unique flares. ...MORE

Excellent!! We went two of our five nights on vacation. I have over ten years in the restaurant business and have not found service like this anywhere. It was attentive without being pretentious. The food was fabulous and fairly priced and the atmosphere was just what we wanted on vacation -- very relaxed. It’s a reason to go back to Siesta Key. ...MORE

Cafe Gabbiano is the closest ticket locally to southern Italy for an authentic dining experience as well as a charming setting. The veal Mamma Lucia is a tasty work of art prepared to perfection. It is sautéed in a marsala wine with wild mushrooms and garnished with a slice of eggplant and home made mozzarella cheese. ...MORE

Priced correctly for Sarasota, very clean, the food is good, very good service, I have been there many times. I recommend the excellent bread. ....MORE

What a hidden gem!!! On our way back to the Cape from Tampa we decided to stop in Sarasota for dinner at a place we had heard about from a friend, Selva Grill. We were seated immediately at the table of our choice which was by the water fountain and looking out on to the street. ....MORE

Fabulous, and what was even better was that it was unexpected fabulous. We were walking around Main Street without a clue where we were going to eat. Cafe Epicure seemed the most active so we decided to give it a shot. Wow, were we glad we did! Our server was a very attentive young Italian gentleman who made wonderful recommendations. ....MORE

Extremely slow, indifferent service (off-peak hours for lunch). We've tried it twice but won't return. Restaurant ambience was nice, food mediocre but acceptable, however service was downright irritating. The waitress (different waitress each time) simply disappeared. The last time we dined, my husband actually had to search her out for our bill. . ....MORE

It was a beautiful surprise find a place like this. My wife and I had such a great time, great service and great food. We were in downtown Sarasota looking for another Italian restaurant, but the ambiance of Cafe Amici kept our attention. . ....MORE

I brought my daughter and her friend, BOTH of whom are very picky eaters at Fleming's last Saturday. I wanted to show them what a 5 STAR restaurant was like. They had our table ready as soon as we got there. The waiter, Rick was right there with the menus. The service was GREAT as it was the other times I've visited. The food was OUTSTANDING. ....MORE

As soon as I entered the restaurant, I found myself forgetting I was in a strip mall in Florida. Organic is the word from top to bottom at Chez Sylvie Et Fils, from the menu, to the fragile but beautiful tablecloths. Sylvie herself is a charming woman that has been at the forefront of the organic food movement, and also a well known force in the dining experience in Sarasota for almost 30 years, and most likely, she will stop by to chat. ....MORE

We discovered this little Italian restaurant in the Siesta Village on Siesta Key just outside of Sarasota sometime in the early part of 2005. It has been our favorite ever since. Each time we return the experience is exactly the same, excellent! ....MORE

Sangria Tapas Bar Restaurant is by far my favorite place to dine in Sarasota. The atmosphere is always upbeat and the food is excellent. I'm happy to see they added outside tables and I noticed they are also open on Sundays. ....MORE

We love the Monkey Room! It's a great night to go out and sit at the patio bar, have some drinks and try the food. I highly recommend any of the salads, burgers or the grouper sandwich. Try to go around sunset - the waterfront view is beautiful! Ahhh...the reasons we left Chicago for Sarasota! ....MORE

I have dined at Miguel's many, many times and have never been disappointed. The service is excellent and the atmosphere is charming. Reservations are accepted. Prices are moderate. I’m never afraid to take guests because there is a large selection of foods and beverages to chose from. ....MORE

For many years, my husband and I owned a condominium on Lido Key. As we now live on the mainland, we like to visit “The Key” several times a year. These visits frequently occur when we have houseguests from up north, and they always include lunch at Cha-Cha Coconuts. We love the ambiance. Sitting at a shaded table, sipping a drink, and watching the shoppers and vacationers can't be beat. ....MORE

We have been to Sam Snead's many times for lunch and for dinner. There has never been a time we have had any complaints regarding the food, service or music. The cheesy nut chicken salad I had yesterday was outstanding. ....MORE

My family and I were vacationing in Southwest Florida...dined here...wonderful experience! Nostalgic and a family-friendly feel...food was great and my son ate the one pounder!. ....MORE

I was so thrilled to find the El Greco menu in my mailbox. I love Greek food, and love to order in. Sadly, after one horrible experience with El Greco, I threw the menu away. When I ordered my meal, they told me it would arrive within a half hour to 45 minutes. ....MORE

Tijuana is an outstanding quick and casual hang out, specializing in Americanized Mexican cuisine. My friends and I frequent the restaurant on weekend nights. ....MORE

This is one of my favorite "chain" restaurants. The food is incredible - and service always very knowledgable and friendly at the Gulf Gate location. ....MORE

This is a great restaurant if you are looking for vegetarian options or something on the lighter side. It is a buffet that consists of a huge selection of salad and toppings, a soup bar which has about 6 or 7 varied soups, a pasta bar that offers two hot pasta dishes and a bread bar offering sweet and savory breads. ....MORE

For such a fine named restaurant we were so surprised the dining room had loud "bar" music. My husband loved the crab cakes. Best ever! My chicken, cheese, nut salad was a total disappointment. ....MORE

My husband and I went to Gecko's last night for dinner and as usual we are always satisfied with this restaurant. This time we had the Veggie Pizza for an appetizer made with mushrooms, spinach, artichoke hearts, black olives, tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese for $8.99. ....MORE

The menu choices were so plentiful, I had a hard time choosing, but everything on the table was terrific! I had a vegetarian dish. It was delicious. Hope to go back when I return to Sarasota. ....MORE

Sangria Restaurant seems to be the talk of the town so I had to see what it was all about. Let’s just say it was the best meal and time I had in awhile. The food was just to die for and the pan perdido bread budding was the best I ever ate. . ....MORE

My husband and I went to this restaurant today, we have been here many many times and we just love it. The water view is just perfect and today was no exception. There were so many boats out there today and it was just beautiful watching them. ....MORE

We visit once a year in October and walk to the village and enjoy the cute restaurant, open air deck, nice for people watching. Relaxing atmosphere, good food and drinks. ....MORE

The Sangria Restaurant was amazing. The Mediterranean atmosphere really set the mood. There wasn't any air conditioning but there were ceiling fans. It made you feel like you were there. The tapas was great, the service was pleasant and quick and the Sangria's to die for!! Definitely hip and trendy. I will enjoy going back again!....MORE

Absolutely Superb! The evening's specialty; a variety of seafood in a creole sauce served over rice, was sinfully delicious. Just spicy enough to allow the various flavors through.
The ambiance was relaxing and cozy. The staff very friendly and attentive. The service was EXCELLENT!
I have definitely added it to my list of "favorites"...MORE

Yoder's has the best bean and ham soup , I went on wednesday. As soon as I get a day off on wednesday again I will go to Yoders and get that delicious bean and ham soup. ..MORE

First time diners at Mediterraneo. Having lived in Italy for several years, I have always been skeptical when it comes to Italian food. However, I must say that Mediterraneo captures much of what traditional Italian cusine is all about.... MORE

The best ribs in town... MORE

I had the most spectacular evening on Little Sarasota Bay, dining at Ophelia's. The view was simply an added enhancement to the exquisite food. Words cannot describe the chef's unbelievable talents, an aspiring chef to say the least..... MORE

My girlfriend and I went to 15 South Ristorante for lunch yesterday and it was just fabulous! We both had a Sterling Cabernet, $9.25 per glass. Almost all of their wines can be purchased by the glass or the bottle which is nice.... MORE

My girlfriend and I went to Sangria's this afternoon for lunch and were we surprised at this restaurant! When we stepped inside the decor grabbed us immediately. Very Spanish colorful dining room. Very inviting! Carlos was our waiter and very pleasant with a nice smile.... MORE

A great place for a lunch in downtown Sarasota. Cie La Vie is one of my favorite casual lunch places. Not only is their food excellent, but their coffee is very very good and their pastries are superb... MORE

As a huge fan of approachable wine lists, creative salads, side dishes and of course our beloved Bone in Rib Eye Steak, cooked a perfect medium rare, I can honestly say that Fleming's Prime Steak House and Wine Bar excels in all areas...MORE