Best Sarasota Restaurants. Southside Village Edition
We’re heading to a great food-filled neighborhood!
The Best Sarasota Southside Village Restaurants
Updated: 2023
Knick’s Tavern & Grill
You’ve just got to love Knick’s. I think of it as a neighborhood tavern with a gourmet twist. Fantastic burgers! But don’t stop there. The specials board is always crowded with delicious dishes that the Knick’s kitchen put its own unique spin on. If you love soup (like I do), you’re in for a treat. If you happen to see, the elusive Italian wedding soup get it! They also have a pretty great short rib sandwich. Oh, here’s a bonus, they take reservations!
Knick’s Tavern & Grill | 1818 S. Osprey Ave. | 941-955-7761 | Knick’s Website
Libby’s Neighborhood Brasserie
Libby’s is one of the anchors of the Southside Village dining community. This place is always teeming with activity. And with good reason. It delivers! It has a “big city” feel to it. Casual but sophisticated. A lively bar scene really keeps Libby’s humming along. Their menu rotates seasonally, which means there are always new things to sample. The adjacent “L Bar” hosts live music and a variety of events. Looking for a place to celebrate Mother’s Day or Easter? You can’t do better than Libby’s for these special occasions.
Libby’s Neighborhood Brasserie | 1917 S. Osprey Ave. | 941-487-7300 | Libby’s Website
Origin Craft Beer & Pizza
This is the original Origin location. Now there are three! Really good pizza. And, as the name would suggest, a great selection of local craft beer. It’s a family-friendly, super comfortable atmosphere. They also have carry-out and delivery available. Don’t pass on the wings. They’re baked, and they’re delicious!
Origin Craft Beer & Pizza | 1859 Hillview St. | 941-330-0218 | Origin Craft Beer & Pizza Website
Pacific Rim
Do you hear a big boat of colorful and delicious sushi calling your name? If that’s your situation, then you’re in luck. Big time! Pacific Rim has been a Sarasota sushi fav for years. Always serving creative and delicious raw fish creations. They also specialize in “Japanese Thai fusion cuisine”. Great Pad Thai and Pad Woo Sen. A younger crowd make it fun to dine there. They have a martini bar. Plus, you can top off your Pacific Rim experience with some green tea ice cream.
Pacific Rim | 1859 Hillview St. | 941-330-0218 | Pacific Rim Website
Veronica Fish & Oyster
This is the latest/greatest entry into the growing Southside dining universe. A Caragiulo restaurant (Owens, Shore…). You could drop Veronica’s into Seattle’s dining scene, and it would be just fine. Lots of fresh seafood. A great big list of crudos. Also, whole prepared fish. A nice selection of fresh oysters are available daily. Daily specials include duck on Sunday and lamb on Wednesday! Great bar scene with lots of local brews on tap. Plus, a good list of handmade cocktails and a pretty deep wine list.
Veronica Fish & Oyster | 1830 S. Osprey Ave. | 941-366-1343 | Veronica’s Website
There you have it. Those are our TOP Sarasota Southside Village restaurants. FYI – These are in alphabetical order for your convenience. They’re OUR favorites. Mix and match the way that you see fit. Oh, if your favorite Southside Village place didn’t make our list, please add it in the comments section and let the rest of the world know that we left one out. We can’t do all the work, you know.
Fandango is Southside is awesome! I love Chutney’s but Fandango is fantastic. Great service and great owner.
Southside Deli should be on this list.