Blog Articles Archives

What’s It Like To be A Tastemaker? Let Ruth’s Chris Show You.

Ruth's Chris Tastemaker Dinner is a wine dinner done right. I get invited to wine events or wine/dinners a lot. Usually, I politely (and respectfully) decline. I mean, really, how much great food and wine can you reasonably be expected to consume during your lifetime? I … [Read more...]

Forks and Corks 2017. The Food & Wine Still Shine!

A few sprinkles and a little cloud cover can't dampen the spirits of 1500+ Sarasota food enthusiasts. Quite they contrary. The lucky eaters (and drinkers) who gathered at the John & Mable Ringling Museum on Sunday were more than ready to go. Usually, this annual food and … [Read more...]

Best Sarasota Restaurants. Southside Village Edition

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 … [Read more...]

Smashed! Burger Cooking 101

It's all in the technique. I'm not going to dance around this or mince words. I LOVE burgers. But, and here's the BIG but, my long term, low carb lifestyle thankfully says "no way" to most of my burger cravings. There is no doubt that burgers are a big business. Burger … [Read more...]

It’s Cocktail Chemistry At Jack Dusty

If you love a good science experiment, then pull up a chair. It seems like there's a fine line sometimes between the science and culinary worlds. Recipes using molecular gastronomy techniques were all the rage a couple of years back. I mean, there wasn't a restaurant worth … [Read more...]

Sarasota Cooking Class Is Now In Session

Sarasota Chefs Share Their Secrets It's the tools. Really it is. Oh, and of course the expertise. That goes without saying. But, it's really all about the tools. That was part of what I discovered this past week. The other part I'm still trying to process. I love to cook. I'm … [Read more...]

Sushi With A Different Twist, Yo! Sushi.

Sushi comes in all shapes, sizes and styles. That much is for sure. This is not Sarasota. Walk into the entrance of Yo! Sushi in the University Town Center and you'll probably have the same feeling sweep over you. You're transported. But, you're not really sure where. … [Read more...]

Peruvian Cuisine Redefined, Brasa & Pisco

You thought you knew Peruvian food? At least I did. Yep, I've been to a lot of Peruvian restaurants. And, for some unknown and inexplicable reason Sarasota is a hotspot for them. Sure, I'm like everyone (or most everyone) else. I like ceviche. There's not a lot that … [Read more...]

Best Sarasota Restaurants. Seafood Edition

Best Sarasota Restaurants. Seafood Edition We've got some great seafood spots to tell you about! 🐟 This is one of the hardest cuisine categories to narrow. I mean, this was tough. There are SO MANY fantastic places in Sarasota to eat super fresh and delicious … [Read more...]

Cinebistro, More Than Dinner and a Movie

Cinebistro, More Than Dinner and a Movie This is a complete entertainment experience that will keep you coming back for more. Their tagline is "Movies With Taste". But, in reality, the brand new Cinebistro is SO much more than that. Set to open Friday, February 12th, this … [Read more...]

The Best of Forks & Corks 2016 | Sarasota Restaurants Journal

It's Always A Fun & Filling Day At The Ringling No, your eyes do not deceive you. That my friends is a massive line. Blocks long in fact. I guess it only stands to reason that any event that could sell out 1500 tickets in some absurd amount of time like 3.375 minutes … [Read more...]

Best Sarasota Restaurants. Downtown Edition

Best Sarasota Restaurants. Downtown Edition We've got some great downtown dining spots just for you! Updated: 2023 The Best Sarasota Restaurants | Downtown Sarasota Downtown Restaurant | Bijou Garden Cafe Bijou is more than a restaurant. It's … [Read more...]

Stottlemyer’s Does BBQ The Old Florida Way | Sarasota Restaurants Journal

There's not much better than BBQ done right. Anybody that loves BBQ has made at least one attempt. One attempt at their very own pit of deliciousness. I know, I make attempts all the time. Some turn out better than others. One thing they all have in common, no … [Read more...]

An Eater’s Guide to Gulf Gate – Sarasota

An Eater's Guide to Gulf Gate - Sarasota We've got a list of some great Gulf Gate dining for you! The Best Sarasota Restaurants | Gulf Gate Sarasota Gulf Gate Restaurant | Dolce Italia This small eatery is a little bit of an "off the grid" place. It’s … [Read more...]

Best Sarasota Restaurants. We’re Rolling Out Our Lists

We're going to show you the Best Sarasota Restaurants! 2016 is going to be a BIG year for dineSarasota. Not only did we just roll out our 2016 Sarasota Dining Book. But, We're going to debut some really fantastic "Best Of" lists. This series of posts will feature the best … [Read more...]

Tasting Notes: NYE, Openings & Dining Book| Sarasota Restaurants Journal

THANKS, SORRY AND LET'S GO!... If you've been keeping score at home (which you've probably have been way to busy to do). you will notice that it's been almost exactly one year since we posted one of these Tasting Notes updates. That's bad. I'll be the first to admit … [Read more...]

Our 2016 Sarasota Dining Book is Here | Sarasota Restaurants Journal

It's here! Our 2016 Sarasota dining book is now available for you or someone you know and love. The 2016 edition is jammed packed with up to date Sarasota restaurant information. You'll want to keep your copy with you at all times. The latest edition has got some fantastic … [Read more...]

The Anatomy Of A Sarasota Food Frenzy | Sarasota Restaurants Journal

The Anatomy Of A Sarasota Food Frenzy What does it take to start a full-on food freakout? I've been doing this Sarasota restaurant/food thing for a while now. Almost fourteen years non-stop, to be exact. So, I have a bit of perspective on this. I'm by no means an expert. … [Read more...]

We’ve Got A Brand New Look | Sarasota Restaurants Journal

After a dozen years we thought we would freshen things up a little. Every once in a while a new coat of paint is exactly what's needed. In this case, we needed more than a little touch-up. Not exactly a tear down. But, pretty damn close. For the past twelve years we've … [Read more...]

Darwin’s on 4th – Savor Sarasota 2015 | Sarasota Restaurants Journal

Alas, we come to the end of a long, but very filling journey... This is it. At least for my Savor Sarasota journey. Please feel free to continue on your own. I think they call that independent study. I can't really think of a better way to bring this home than with … [Read more...]

Sardinia – Savor Sarasota 2015 | Sarasota Restaurants Journal

If you look, you can usually find delicious things hidden in the strangest places. Just drive down Tamiami Trail and try and count them. On second thought you had better keep your eyes on the trail. What you're counting (I mean, not counting) is the number of … [Read more...]

Apollonia Grill – Savor Sarasota 2015 | Sarasota Restaurants Journal

Present day collides with childhood memories in a culinary explosion! Greek food is fun! There I said it. And, it is. It's food that a lot of times is celebrated with music, dancing and lots of laughing. It's just fun, trust me. I've got a soft spot when it comes to … [Read more...]

Cafe L’Europe – Savor Sarasota 2015 | Sarasota Restaurants Journal

Classique French fare takes it's turn in the Savor Sarasota spotlight. Who doesn't love the experience of sitting outdoors and enjoying a perfect French meal street-side? The answer is, No one. At least everybody I know loves this style of dining. We're lucky here in … [Read more...]

The Crow’s Nest – Savor Sarasota 2015 | Sarasota Restaurants Journal

Monday, Monday... Here we go. Savor Sarasota week two is officially underway. I trust you got a little rest yesterday. If you've made it this far and are still eating along with us, I applaud you! If you're just getting on board with this, you've got some … [Read more...]

It’s Halftime – Savor Sarasota 2015 | Sarasota Restaurants Journal

We're at the halfway mark. Time to let that belt out a notch. You guys are doing great! I mean that. It's not easy to tackle this list of Sarasota restaurants and still look forward to another whole week. I'm really proud of you. Since it's the weekend, why … [Read more...]

Siesta Key Oyster Bar (SKOB) – Savor Sarasota | Sarasota Restaurants Journal

Siesta Key gets into the Savor Sarasota mix. I think we can all agree that Sarasota is home to a pretty diverse set of culinary styles. I know it's not NY, Chicago, Portland or Seattle. But, it still has pretty good food options. **The term "For a city of it's size" shall … [Read more...]

Libby’s Cafe + Bar | Savor Sarasota 2015 | Sarasota Restaurants Journal

So many menus, so little time... Why Libby's? Good question. Lots of Sarasota food types write about Libby's Cafe + Bar. And with good reason. It's unbelievably easy to write about because they do so many things right. That's the short version. Including them in … [Read more...]

Duval’s Fresh, Local, Seafood – Savor Sarasota 2015 | Sarasota Restaurants Journal

Let's take things downtown... Ah, Savor Sarasota day 3. Glad you're still keeping up. Today we're heading downtown. Fresh and local. Those two words have been trending restaurant themes for the past couple of years. Don't get me wrong. I love both fresh and … [Read more...]

MADE – Savor Sarasota 2015 | Sarasota Restaurants Journal

Onward and upward! It's Tuesday. Savor Sarasota, day two. I hope you're saving room, because we're just getting rolling. That said, let's get on with our pick for today. MADE. As, you can see from the logo, Modern, American, Delicious and Eats. All words that … [Read more...]

Amore by Andrea – Savor Sarasota 2015 | Sarasota Restaurants Journal

Here we go! Savor Sarasota Restaurant Week is here. And, I'm just assuming we're all ready to EAT! There's been a lot of promo leading up to these two weeks. Now the fun starts. Getting a fantastic value at some our best Sarasota restaurants is a pretty great thing. To … [Read more...]

Savor Sarasota Restaurant Week 2015 | Sarasota Restaurant journal

On your mark, get set, EAT! If you’re considering a little early summer diet you may want to re-think that plan. At the very least a short postponement is in order. The 2015 version of Savor Sarasota Restaurant Week is just around the corner and I’m certain you’ll want to … [Read more...]

Forks & Corks 2015 | Sun Drenched Deliciousness | Sarasota Restaurants Journal

It’s hard to beat a day of sun filled food and fun. The Sarasota-Manatee Originals know how to throw a party. That much is for sure. They’ve been at this Forks & Corks thing for a while now. It’s pretty safe to say that they’ve got it down pat. When the doors swing … [Read more...]

Brand New To Our Database | Sarasota Restaurants Journal

For your dining pleasure… We've just posted info on a bunch of new (at least to our database) Sarasota restaurants. We just knew that you would want to know. Here’s are some new things for you to check out! SHANER'S PIZZA - The return of a Sarasota fav! FANDANGO … [Read more...]

Last Minute Christmas Gifts For Your Sarasota Foodie | Sarasota Restaurant Journal

We all have that very special, but, hard to buy for person on our holiday shopping list. Well, I’m about to solve your present buying problems. Here's a short list of Sarasota, food-centric gift ideas. Oh, you're welcome! Siesta Key Oysters Bar (SKOB) gift … [Read more...]

Tasting Notes | Xmas, Free Shuttle & Food Trucks | Sarasota Restaurants Journal

CHRISTMAS IN SARASOTA... The majority of us will be spending the holiday gathered around our dining room tables with friends and family. That's a tradition. But, some of you want to get out of the house and let someone else do all of the cooking and cleanup. I get that. So, in … [Read more...]

Eat Here Sponsoring Staff Meal | Sarasota Restaurants Journal

Who says there's no such thing as a free lunch? Question. Do you work in the hospitality service industry on Siesta Key? Question. Wouldn't you just love some free food (and drinks)? If you answered yes to both of those questions then you'll want to read … [Read more...]

Dessert For A Great Cause | Sarasota Restaurants Journal

Hungry for dessert? Who doesn't LOVE a delicious dessert? Good question. Wouldn't it just be ideal if you could have that dessert and make a needed donation too? That was a trick question, you know you can get that done. And, SKOB makes it easy! Chef Douglas Jennings … [Read more...]

Walt’s To Host Reef Fund Benefit | Sarasota Restaurants Journal

Looks like this should be a fun day! Looking for something a little different to do this Sunday? Sure you are. I think this might be just what you're looking for. Walt's Fish Market is hosting an all day Reef Fund Benefit in the name Walt's founder Claus Wallin's … [Read more...]

Could This Be The Best Fried Chicken In America? | Sarasota Restaurants Journal

Could This Be The Best Fried Chicken In America? Why is this man smiling? It's not like it's a competition or anything. Or is it? Everybody wants to be number one. On top, the best. I mean, if you're going to do anything meaningful, would you really strive for the … [Read more...]

The Little Sarasota DINING Book is Back! | Sarasota Restaurants Journal

Sometimes It's hard to stay away. Well, we meet once again. When we published our last Sarasota dining guide back in 2010 I thought, "That was a nice run. But, it's time to move on. Print is dead". Truth be told, I wasn't ready to move on (AND, I don't think print is … [Read more...]

The Shamrock Is Ready To Jam On | Sarasota Restaurants Journal

Talk about a great backyard summer party! Summer is here! The calendar might not say June 21st yet. But, summer is most definitely here. Along with the heat, humidity and frequent downpours comes a recent Sarasota summer tradition. The Shamrock's Summer Chef Jam. For … [Read more...]

Savor Sarasota Rolls On! | Sarasota Restaurants Journal

Part two should be just as delicious as the opening act. Hope you have been smart and saved some room for week two. I would completely understand if you haven't. Being disciplined in the face of extreme temptation is difficult at best and impossible at worst. Sometimes its … [Read more...]

Your Unofficial Guide to Savor Sarasota Restaurant Week | Sarasota Restaurants Journal

Ready, Set, Eat... UPDATED FOR 2019 - It's here. The two weeks that Sarasota residents and visitors alike drool over. Savor Sarasota Restaurant week is upon us once again. To be fair, "restaurant weeks" is a more accurate description. This local food lovers dream stretches … [Read more...]

Jalea to Close, Yume Sushi to Expand | Sarasota Restaurants Journal

Dining musical chairs on Main Street. The wheel turns for the restaurant community on Main Street in downtown Sarasota. In what is an ever changing dining scene, another chapter is about to be penned as Jalea will close it's doors to make room for a larger Yume … [Read more...]

These Are Some Tasty Tots | Sarasota Restaurants Journal

"Napoleon, give me some of your tots"... I'm sure the good folks at Ore-Ida aren't quite quaking in the tater tot making boots. But, maybe they should be. No, I'm not suggesting that the tots you see pictured below will be in your local supermarket frozen food section … [Read more...]

I Think I Have A New Favorite Cookbook | Sarasota Restaurants Journal

It's not surprising that the good things naturally rise to the top. I like to eat out. But, I like cooking for myself just about as much. Another thing. I've got a pretty giant cookbook collection. Maybe, not by library standards. But, certainly by any reasonable … [Read more...]

Sarasota Serves Up New Indian Restaurant Options | Sarasota Restaurants Journal

Options are good. Especially, when they make your world a little more tasty. One thing you have to say about Sarasota. If you want dining choices, you certainly won't be disappointed. There is a lot to pick from. The selection just got even bigger with the addition of two … [Read more...]

10 Killer Corned Beef And Cabbage Recipes | Sarasota Restaurants Journal

Want to enjoy a nice quite St. Patrick's Day but still want the same delicious food? OK, Let's just say that you LOVE traditional St. Patrick's Day dishes, but, don't want to hassle with the beer swigging crowds. What to do? How about making that delicious Corned Beef and … [Read more...]

Here’s Your Sarasota St. Patrick’s Day Dining Guide | Sarasota Restaurants Journal

Here's Your Sarasota St. Patrick's Day Dining Guide Once a year it's perfectly acceptable to gorge on corned beef, cabbage, and green beer! One more time! Another Sarasota St. Patrick's Day food-a-thon is about to begin. We're not going to bore you as we wax on about the … [Read more...]

Forks & Corks 2014 | Best In Show | Sarasota Restaurants Journal

Its not a simple choice. Nothing as easy as steak or fish. Choices can be hard. Its great to have them, but No Im not whining or complaining, Im just stating a fact that becomes painfully obvious the moment you walk through the entryway and enter the spacious and … [Read more...]

Menu Monday | Jack Dusty | Sarasota Restaurants Journal

Somebody is having a birthday! Hey, you only turn one once. At least thats the accepted thinking. So, why shouldnt we feature the birthday boy on our Menu Monday post? Jack Dusty, the Sarasota Ritz-Carlton eatery, turns the big ONE this month. A lot can happen in a year. … [Read more...]

It’s Amazing and Awesome, Really? | Sarasota Restaurants Journal

It's Amazing and Awesome, Really? Old habits die hard in the lexicon of fashionable words. Please look closely at the image above. Here's another. Look closely. One more... All three have something in common. Do you know what it is? It may be hard to see the … [Read more...]

Tasting Notes | Rooftop Party, Major Awards & Bubbly | Sarasota Restaurants Journal

NEW YEARS PREVIEW The annual Things To Do On New Years Eve press releases are starting to fill up my inbox. Here we go If youre looking for The essence of chic and a modern vibe then you might want to add the Carmel Café (8433 Cooper Creek Blvd.) to your list of year end … [Read more...]

Menu Monday | Lolita Tartine | Sarasota Restaurants Journal

Euro style, Rosemary location. Take your time. Slow down, Enjoy the day. These are all feelings that spring to mind when sitting at newly open Lolita Tartine and enjoying one of their name bearing signature open faced sandwiches. Lot of sandwiches can qualify as open … [Read more...]

Tasting Notes | James Beard, Pizza & Black Friday

POP, POP, POP November 21st ushered in the latest vintage of Beaujolais Nouveau. You could almost hear the corks popping all over town! Seriously, if you would like to enjoy this years quick fermented crop you can pick up a bottle at any of our fine Sarasota wine retailers. | … [Read more...]

Thanksgiving In Sarasota

Thanksgiving In Sarasota There are lots of ways to enjoy the best holiday meal of the year. Here it is. Once again, the big eat-a-ton, more commonly known as Thanksgiving, is almost upon us. And, as usual, the options to satisfy your tryptophan-laced cravings are … [Read more...]

Tasting Notes: Birthdays, Breakfast, Brunch

CELEBRATE Believe it or not the Siesta Key Oyster Bar (SKOB 5238 Ocean Blvd.) is 10 years old. And in that time they have amassed quite the collection of one dollar bills. Ever wonder how much it all adds up to? Find out on Tuesday (NOV 19th, 7pm) as part of their BIG birthday … [Read more...]

What’s In A Name?

Most people hate moving. Im one of them. Moving is the worst! Thats just me. You may enjoy packing up all of your crap, loading it into a truck, van or car and hauling it all to a new spot. I don't like it. I cant imagine moving an entire restaurant is that much fun … [Read more...]

Menu Monday | Louies Modern |Sarasota Restaurants Journal

Turning the lunch menu upside down isnt easy. Its lunch. Just lunch. The middle meal of the day is probably, no, definitely, the most overlooked and under appreciated. Face it, breakfast gets more than its fair share of hype as the most important meal of the day … [Read more...]

Tasting Notes: Lunch, Safari Sarasota, Re-Launch

LUNCH DATE Ah, a sure sign that season will soon be in full swing. Your usual dinner only spot is now open for lunch. If you happen to be lunching downtown youre in luck. Eat Here (1888 Main St.), Louies Modern (1289 Palm Ave.) and Clasico Cafe (1341 Main St.) are throwing … [Read more...]

Sarasota Food Find | S’Macks Burgers & Shakes | Sarasota Restaurants Journal

In a world of burgers its the sides that make all difference. It seems the world has gone burger crazy. At a time when lots of folks are talking veganism and the like, the burger has taken off. Its like an insane parallel universe. The constant drone of how great plant … [Read more...]

Menu Monday | The Savory Street Cafe

Breakfast, lunch and dinner with an international flair Its not like Sarasota has a shortage of culinary diversity. Quite the opposite. Were lucky enough to have food choices that span the globe. Whether youre in the mood for Italian, Indian, Greek, Mexican and yes, even … [Read more...]

Tasting Notes: Tenders, Sharkey’s, Openings

WINE EM AND DINE EM War of the Wines II, Duvalss New World Cafe,. Oct 23rd, 6:30pm. A battle royale. Sonoma vs. Napa. May the best wines win! 444-5971 | Chateau Ste Michelle Wine-Pairing Dinner. Mattisons 41, Oct. 24th 6:30pm, five course wine paring menu will be served. … [Read more...]

What’s Happening Here?

Could a Siesta Key landmark be staging a south trail comeback? If youve been close to the intersection of Tamiami Trail and Stickney Point Road you may have noticed this small, modest sign. Heres the question Is this anything? Im just asking. … [Read more...]

The Stone Crab Countdown Rolls On

The anticipation of something delicious. We love to break out that image above once a year. Perfect stone crab claws. Just waiting to be opened and slathered with their creamy, mustardy condiment and enjoyed. The countdown clock is now at 6. October 15th is the day (as … [Read more...]

Menu Monday. It’s All About The Burger

Menu Monday. It's All About The Burger It's burger time! The burger has made a comeback. Not that it really ever went anywhere. But it's back! And, boy, are there great versions of an American classic floating around the Sarasota restaurant scene. Theres a prime example of a … [Read more...]

Menu Monday | Nancy’s Bar-B-Q

Menu Monday. Nancy's Bar-B-Q Anyway you spell it, it means the same thing, delicious. Bar-Be-Que, BBQ, Bar-B-Que or Bar-B-Q. There are so many ways you can spell it. But the meaning, at least here in this country, is pretty universal. Cooking styles, sauces, and presentations … [Read more...]

Menu Monday | Tony’s Chicago Beef

A little taste of the Windy City on the Suncoast. Every city that has transplants, has restaurants opened specifically to fill a gastronomic wish. That wish, food from home of course. Sarasota is no different. If fact, were lucky to have a better selection than most … [Read more...]

Fall, Football, Crock Pot

Some things just naturally go together You get the idea. I dont have to magically conjure up remembrances of autumns past. Or, do I? Fall is a little different in the Sunshine State then in other parts of our great country. But, many of us who relocated here from points … [Read more...]

Same Delicious Salad, New Location |Sarasota Restaurants Journal

A change of scenery is like a new beginning Does that salad look familiar? Well if youre any kind of Sarasota salad aficionado it should. That is the Goat Cheese Salad that was a standout on the menu of the former Brasserie Belge on Main Street. When they closed their … [Read more...]

Sarasota Food Find | Clasico Cafe and Bar

East meets west in the most delicious way possible. Its a long distance romance to be sure. Ingredients that you normally would not think of together. But, when combined in just the right way Yes, magic. That leads us to todays Sarasota Food Find. Obviously, this dish … [Read more...]

State by State, Burger by Burger

You just cant get enough of a good thing. I love a good burger as much as the next guy. Sometimes, I think even more than the next guy. And, yes I know I just wrote about the great burgers served up over at Knicks Tavern & Grill. But, I thought, Hey, what if youre out … [Read more...]

June Winners | Enjoy A Great Burger

Why do burgers taste better in the summer? This is not a trick question. Lets raise a bun to our June winners. Sorry for the delay in announcing. Technical difficulties beyond our control. All is good now. Especially for Skip and Dave. They correctly identified Junes … [Read more...]

Meatloaf and Much Much More

Another chance at some great free food awaits OK. Last month we gave away a couple of free meals at The Village Café on Siesta Key. This month were going to feed you again. June features a specials board from a great neighborhood gathering spot. Theyve been serving up … [Read more...]

Sarasota’s Best Chef’s 2013 | Sarasota Restaurants Journal

Who says you have to be a big city to have big time chefs? I have been banging on this drum for over ten years. Sarasota has some great restaurants. And now we have the proof. Fantastic service and unbelievable ambiance can get you pretty far. But, to climb that last … [Read more...]

Savor The Tastes Of Sarasota Restaurant Week | Sarasota Restaurants Journal

A full two weeks of wining and dining UPDATED FOR 2019 - It clearly says "RESTAURANT WEEK". You can see it as plainly as I can. But, for lucky Sarasota diners, it is happily not the case. The Sarasota restaurant taste-a-thon that is annually sponsored by Visit Sarasota … [Read more...]

A Look At The Latest and Greatest | Sarasota Restaurants journal

When the light is the brightest, the best shines through. Each May, just like clockwork, the National Restaurant Association puts on a show. Not just any show, but, THE SHOW. The big one. A gathering so big that it takes one of the largest show spaces in the country to … [Read more...]

Yes, We Have Winners

Our summer giveaways are off to a BIG start. What a fantastic way to start off the summer. Thanks for the great response to our first specials board contest. We had lots of entries. Ok, I know, its results you want. There were a wide range of guesses. Here are some of the … [Read more...]

We’ve Got A Contest Your Taste Buds Will Love!

Lets just see how well youve been paying attention. Were going have a little fun this summer, AND you are too! Weve got some free food to give away from some of our great Sarasota restaurants. Sounds like a good time already, right? Heres the deal. Were going to post a … [Read more...]

The LIST | April 2013

A brand new Sarasota restaurant leaps to the top We have been publishing dineSarasota.com online for just over eleven years now. For the past eight and a half of them we have been posting our LIST of our most searched for Sarasota restaurants. Thats 101 monthly editions if … [Read more...]

Cinco de Mayo, A Celebration of…

Who really needs a reason for a party anyway? Who would have thought that the hard fought victory that the Mexican army achieved over the French one hundred and fifty years ago would morph into an all out margarita chugging party? Certainly not Mexican General Ignacio … [Read more...]

Sarasota Food Find | Half Shell Oyster House

Its true. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day! What: Lobster Scrambled Eggs Where: Half Shell Oyster House (1991 Main Street, 941-952-9400) Cost: $11.00 There isnt a whole lot thats more luxurious (food wise) than lobster for breakfast. Lets face it, lobster … [Read more...]

And Along Comes Senor Siesta… | Sarasota Restaurants Journal

Just when you think the dining space on Siesta Key was about as full as it could possible be Exit Taste of Asia, enter Senor Siesta. It sounds like stage directions from some obscure B flick. But, its not. Its culinary reality. It is part of the ever evolving (and … [Read more...]

Louies Modern, A Sneak Peek | Sarasota Restaurants Journal

Classic retro feel gives way to modern American cuisine. First off, this is not a restaurant review. This is more of a coming attraction. You remember those from the movies theater. They were the precursor to the over produced trailers that you see now. This coming … [Read more...]

St. Patty’s Day Sarasota Style

There is more to the 17th just than green beer. Who doesnt love a good St. Patricks Day celebration? Trick question. The correct answer is everybody loves a good St. Patricks Day celebration. Or, more accurately, everyone I know. In my previous Chicago life, March 17th was … [Read more...]

Sarasota Food Find | Libby’s Cafe + Bar

Good things come in small packages What: Cedar Wrapped Sustainable Salmon Where: Libbys Café + Bar (1917 Osprey Ave., 941-487-7300) Cost: $22.00 Dont you just love a little mystery with your meal? If its the right kind of intrigue it can add a whole new element to your … [Read more...]

Gumbo and Mardi Gras, The Perfect Combination | Sarasota Restaurants Journal

People who come back from heaven all say the same thing... Try the gumbo. Gumbo. Just say the word and watch me start to drool. Everybody has his or her favorite. And, I'm sure there are as many variations as you would care to count. But, there's only one that could get … [Read more...]

Its that time of year once again. Time to reveal our top 100 restaurants for the year just past. What a fantastic year for Sarasota dining. WOW! A lot of great new restaurants have burst onto the scene offering a wide array of taste tempting dishes. There were some closings of … [Read more...]

https://www.dinesarasota.com/sarasotas-top-100-restaurants-2012-edition/

Forks & Corks 2013 | Best in Show | Sarasota Restaurants Journal

What more can be said about Sarasotas premier food and wine event? What more can you say about the best food and wine event in Sarasota that hasn't already been printed or spoken? Yes, there is fantastic food. And, yes there are countless cases of silky smooth … [Read more...]

Coming Your Way | Pub 32

What whiskey will not cure, there is no cure for. ~ Irish Proverb Do you like Irish whiskey? How about an expertly poured Guinness served at the correct temperature? Then 2013 may indeed be your lucky year. At the end of January, Pub 32 opens their doors on south Tamiami … [Read more...]

Sarasota Food Find- Mozzarella Fella

Sarasota Food Find- Mozzarella Fella The Special What: The SpecialWhere: Mozzarella Fella (1668 Main St., Downtown. 941-366-7600)Cost: Varies There is something about the word itself, Special. It just sounds out of the ordinary. It rolls off the tongue in just that, … [Read more...]

It’s Open. Eat Here, Siesta Key | Sarasota Restaurants Journal

The number three works for me. Maybe you already know this, maybe you dont. The third of acclaimed restaurateur Sean Murphys Eat Here restaurants has opened its doors on Siesta Key. That may be news to some of you, but, probably not many. This new addition to the … [Read more...]

The LIST | January 2013 | Sarasota Restaurants Journal

Finding a great Sarasota restaurant is just a click away. The new year has arrived. And, with it our first LIST of 2013. There were some great new places that opened last year. The upcoming year already looks promising. The brand, spanking new Eat Here on Siesta Key has just … [Read more...]

What Exactly is Jack Dusty? | Sarasota Restaurants Journal

Its not easy to create a restaurant that both locals and visitors will love. Theres something about new. The new car smell. New, never worn clothes. The feeling of new. Its knowing that youve never experienced this EXACT thing before. Thats what new is all about. … [Read more...]

Sarasota Food Find | Sun Garden Cafe

When this hearty soup calls, its hard not to answer. What: Curried Chicken Soup Where: Sun Garden Cafe (210 Avenida Madera, Siesta Key, 941-346-7170) Cost: Cup $2.50 There is soup. And, then there is SOUP. Real soup. Soup that has a soul. Soup that really grabs your taste … [Read more...]

Burger Time | The Village Cafe

Finding a great burger selection in an unexpected location. Were lucky, burger-wise. Sarasota has some pretty amazing places to grab a delicious burger. Heres a short list, see if you agree. The Hob Nob Square 1 Burgers & Bar Knicks Tavern & … [Read more...]

A Sarasota Diners Manifesto

A Sarasota Diners Manifesto Expectations, reality, and some thoughts on food. Food (and dining) has become a passion. That’s not a statement of my personal view, it’s more an observation of the world as it appears. Sarasota fits nicely into that world. It has a … [Read more...]