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...]
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...]
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...]
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...]
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...]
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...]
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...]
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’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...]
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...]
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...]
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/
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...]
Sarasota Food Find | Dutch Valley Restaurant
Sometimes you find food. Sometimes food finds you. What: Cobb Salad Where: Dutch Valley Restaurant (6721 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, 941-924-1770) Cost: Small $8.25, Large $9.99 What can you say about the mighty Cobb Salad that hasnt already been said a thousand times? How … [Read more...]
Sarasota Food Find | The Broken Egg
Sometimes you find food. Sometimes food finds you. What: Cuban Roll Where: The Broken Egg (140 Avenida Messina, Siesta Key, 941-346-2750) Price: $ 8.49 When most people in this town think Cuban Sandwich the reflex response is The Columbia, And, thats natural. They do … [Read more...]
New, New, New…
Its always great to add a few new things to your life. Restaurants come and restaurants go. It just a fact of life in that business. Sometimes, its hard (if not impossible) to keep track of all the action. Even for us. Over the past few weeks we have added some places to … [Read more...]
Sarasota Food Find | Coyne’s Pier 28
Hey, its time to find some great Sarasota food! What: Coynes Famous Crab Cakes Where: Coynes Pier 28 (8200 S. Tamiami Trl., Sarasota 941-921-0028) Price: $24.00 First, does the following sound vaguely familiar? Second, no, this is not a Mad Lib. Ready, here goes. … [Read more...]
Sarasota Food Find | Zante Gyros
Nothing beats discovering a great dish! What: Chicken Gyro Where: Zante Gyros (6500 Superior Ave., Sarasota, 941-404-2099, Gulf Gate) Price: $5.95 There arent many people (at least that Ive run into) who dont love a good gyro every now and then. Obviously, it cant be … [Read more...]
dineSarasota Eat Beat | October 29, 2012
There are great Sarasota food happenings every week! You should know about them.. Its Stone Crab season! There are a bunch of places in town that are serving up this awesome seasonal delicacy. Have a look at what the Siesta Key Oyster Bar (SKOB) has on their plate. Grab … [Read more...]
Taste + Tech = Carmel Cafe
When technology meets food the results can be delicious. I love toys. Especially tech toys. The more light and buttons, the more better. At least in my eyes. The device doesn't even have to be all that useful. I just love to play with stuff. I also love and appreciate great … [Read more...]
Menu Sneak Peek | The Village Cafe
I hope you like jammin', too! Youre in for a treat. Weve got a little menu sneak peek for you. The Village Café on Siesta Key will be rolling out some brand new menu items a little later this year. But, youre about to be an insider. Youre lucky enough to have a first look at … [Read more...]
How To Build The Perfect Sandwich
The pursuit of perfection is a noble cause. Even when its just a sandwich. A quick history lesson. Does the name John Montagu ring a bell? No. Well, how about his more popular moniker, the 4th Earl of Sandwich? Yes. Now youve got it. Since the 18th century when The Earl … [Read more...]
James Beard Dinner | Maison Blanche Style
If you didnt happen to make it to NYC, this is the next best thing. So, you couldnt make it out to New York City this past June for the BIG James Beard Foundation dinner featuring our very own Chef Jose Martinez. Well, here is some news that will get your attention. October … [Read more...]
The Missing SKOBwich? | Sarasota Restaurants Journal
Sometimes great items never make the REAL menu. Have you ever walked into a place, sat down at the bar (or table) and looked over at another persons plate to see what theyre having? Of course you have. We are all naturally curious, especially when it comes to our … [Read more...]
South Philly Comes To The South Trail | Sarasota Restaurants Journal
A dose of brotherly love comes to SRQ. There are a bunch of great sandwich shops here in Sarasota. Each one touts their own specialty. Some feature regional favorites, some offer a more generic cross section of sandwiches. A lot of places offer a Philly cheesesteak. Only … [Read more...]
Sarasota’s Top 5 | Week of August 27, 2012
Summers nearly gone. But, our local dining scene keeps on chugging along. Heres a look at your favorite Sarasota restaurants of the past week. Enjoy! A little summertime bonus, just for you... … [Read more...]
Your Seat At The Table.
Getting a seat at your favorite Sarasota restaurant has never been easier The Sarasota restaurant scene has gotten more and more competitive over the years. Im not talking about restaurants competing against one another. Im talking about hungry diners competing for a limited … [Read more...]
It’s Famous For A Reason
This is not going to be a deep philosophical Sarasota food post. I know youre used to that here. Hope you're not disappointed. This one is quite simple. Actually, it can be condensed into two words. Famous Italian If you havent been to the Main Bar Sandwich Shop in awhile, … [Read more...]
Chicago Beef, The Little Joe’s Way
The hunt is half the fun (at least). Im always on the prowl for a great Chicago beef sandwich. Guess what? Found another one! Little Joes Italian Beef on South Tamiami Trail. Its a recent addition to our restaurant scene and theyre serving up some pretty authentic Chicago … [Read more...]
Adult Education, Island Style
Who said learning cant be fun? Class is now in session. Im going to teach you a new word today. Some of you may know it. But, I feel fairly confident that for most of you (and me) it will be an addition to your already extensive vocabulary. Ready. Here we go. Falernum - … [Read more...]
Forks & Corks: A Food and Wine Spectacular | Sarasota Restaurants Journal
In todays frenetic news driven media world there's a rush to be first. First out with the big scoop, first to hit the web with a breaking news flash, first in a race to be first. I guess the timing of this post doesn't fit with any of that. Since January 29th, I think every … [Read more...]
Savory Is The Perfect Word
I love food that has a history. Even if its not my history. I always marvel at the sheer volume of stories that can be told through food. It might take the form of a frequently re-lived family tale that is rooted in a particular dish. Or, it may be a meal that triggers … [Read more...]
When They Say Eat Here, They Mean It
Another piece is added to downtown Sarasotas culinary landscape. Busy. Big city. Buzz. Those are some words that flashed through my head the minute I first walked in the door of Sean Murphys new Sarasota dining destination, Eat Here. When youre a local culinary legend … [Read more...]
Grilled Cheese Takes Center Stage
The humble grilled cheese gets a necessary elevation. Its supposed to be all about the burgers. And, mostly it is. When you have the word burger prominently featured in your name it had better be. But, what happens when a alternative menu item is as good as the featured … [Read more...]
Sarasota’s Top 100 Restaurants
UPDATED FOR APRIL 2015 We know you want to know where to go. And, we're here to help you out with that. Each and every month we update our top 100. From Seafood to Indian, Peruvian to bar food. Here are the TOP 100 Sarasota restaurants. RANK RESTAURANT 1 Derek's Rustic … [Read more...]
Our Most Popular Posts: November 2011
November was gone in a flash. Its almost hard to believe how quickly 2011 has been flying by. And, we all know whats just around the corner. Yes, the holidays of course, but, also SEASON! The streets will soon be filling up with visitors from all over the world looking to bask … [Read more...]
The Rise of the Rookies
Theres no other way to say it. The new kids on the block are making an impression on Sarasota diners. In this weeks top five there are four restaurants that have opened within the past few months, including two that have open in the last couple weeks. Only Solorzanos is there … [Read more...]
Coming and Going
Things change. That much we know for sure. Image Courtesy: Jennifer Woodard Maderazo There have been lots of changes to the Sarasota restaurant scene in the past few months. Weve been adding and deleting places from our database at a pretty good clip. Just in case you havent … [Read more...]
The Weekly: Solorzano’s, Seven Hills and Duval’s
Old favs and new entries make up this edition of the WEEKLY. When Morocco closed over in the Buccaneer Plaza on South Tamiami Trail, I thought why cant a place make a go of it there?. Its not a bad spot really. They have parking, signage, and an easy in and out from the … [Read more...]
Forks and Corks U: More Than Wine 101 | Sarasota Restaurants Journal
Trying to de-mystify the wine world is a noble pursuit. Image courtesy of the Sarasota-Manatee Originals. © Peter Aker. When I went to college back thirty years ago, course offerings were pretty unimaginative. OK, boring. There was your usual complement of core classes, … [Read more...]
Libby’s Rolls Out Some New Tastes
Can new really compete with some old favorites? Not surprisingly, yes! The menu. The concept seems benign enough. If you walk into any restaurant, in any city, you will at some point be faced with some choices. Your options may be written on a white board mounted on a nearby … [Read more...]
The Weekly: Yoder’s, Munchies and Solorzano’s
Another week down. Its a quick slide to the holiday season and the end of 2011. Its probably a good time to order that fresh Thanksgiving turkey. Weve got a bunch of great places here in Sarasota to do that. I better remember to add that to my to-do list. While Im busy … [Read more...]
Fleming’s Steakhouse: Lump Crab Louis Wrap
I was flipping through a pile of old images from some of our Sarasota restaurants and came across some from a Flemings Steakhouse photo shoot I did a while back. This is their Lump Crab Louis Wrap. I had forgotten what a great appetizer it was. I thought I would dust off a … [Read more...]
Shamrock Pub Brings On The Q
Everybody loves a great summertime BBQ. Summertime is BBQ time. Well, actually in the Sunshine State, almost any time is BBQ time. But, lets not get all hung up on that. To help you get your fill this season, The Shamrock Pub is putting a brand new twist on the same old … [Read more...]
Spyder Broussard and The Polo Grill Boil It Up
You dont have to be a rocket scientist to know an amazing food find when you see one. Four years goes by in the blink of an eye. Thats how long Tommy Klauber of the Polo Grill and his good friend (and relative) Spyder Broussard have been treating East County folks to an … [Read more...]
Celebrate Bastille Day Mattison’s Style
If you cant arrange a trip to Paris for this years Bastille Day celebration, Weve got a nice alternative plan for your celebration. How about a short trip over to Mattisons Forty One for their special Bastille Day menu? Chef Paul Mattison and his culinary staff are planning a … [Read more...]
Can’t Get Enough Prix Fixe? Hillview Grill Has You Covered
Savor Sarasota is over. Now all youre left with is that down in the dumps, no prix fixe menu, empty feeling. Fear not! There are lots of restaurants around town that are continuing the Savor Sarasota spirit. Over in the Southside Village neighborhood, the Hillview Grill can … [Read more...]
Brasserie Belge Offers Burgers To Celebrate Independence Day
Did you ever think you would be chowing down an all American burger at a Belgian restaurant in Sarasota on the 4th of July? Well, truth be told, I hadnt considered the possibility either. Until now. Things have changed in Sarasota. Our restaurant community has exploded with … [Read more...]
Brunch Should Be More Than Just A Meal
Contrary to popular belief, brunch is not just the awkward meal between breakfast and lunch. When I was growing up brunch was a BIG deal. Even today, its place as a meal is still special compared to your standard breakfast, lunch or dinner. But, its not quite the event that … [Read more...]
The May 2011 LIST Explodes With New Entries
The May 2011 list is out and its loaded with surprises. Im not saying the inclusion of any of these great Sarasota restaurants left us dumbfounded, theyre all fantastic places to dine. What caused us to raise an eyebrow (or two) was the shear number of new additions. 8 new … [Read more...]
The Concept of New and a Sarasota Restaurant Tradition
Sometimes always looking for the latest things obscures your view of the best things. Youve seen it. I know you have, because I have. A hand written note. A fancy, digitally produced graphic. Or, just blank butcher paper over a storefront window. All of the above say the same … [Read more...]
Have A Quick Peek At Nancy’s Menu
Whats currently the hottest ticket in town? If youre thinking Sarasota Film Festival, you may want to reconsider. How about a pulled pork sandwich? Thats right, pulled pork (or brisket). Nancys Bar-B-Q has unofficially opened and has lots of locals waiting in lines for a … [Read more...]
When Is A Scallop More Than A Scallop?
A good riddle can be as satisfying as a great dish. They both leave you wanting a little more. When I was young I had the same collection of books that most kids growing up in the early sixties had. Lots of Dr. Seuss and the like. Seuss was great, dont get me wrong. There are … [Read more...]
The Worst Kept Secret In Sarasota
Ill keep this brief (because frankly, its a little embarrassing for me). Do you see that mound of mouthwatering BBQ? Do you know what that means? Nancys Bar-B-Q is officially/unofficially open for business! But, you probably already knew that. Its called a soft opening … [Read more...]
Innovation and Invention Hits The Sarasota Food Scene
Why isn't there an acceptance of creative cuisine the way there is an acceptance of ordinary cuisine? That should be fixed. Those of you who know me personally or who visit dineSarasota.com on a regular or semi-regular basis know one thing. I don't like to write restaurant … [Read more...]
Is This The Best Goat Cheese Salad In Sarasota?
I thought I had seen or eaten just about anything that could contain or be made with a piece of goat cheese. I was wrong. The menu description is so inviting Two warm goat cheese pillows encased in puff pastry on a bed of romaine, apple and nuts. Honey vinaigrette. A house … [Read more...]
Forks and Corks: The Originals Hit It Out Of The Park!
Food and wine events around Sarasota are about as common as dolphin sightings in our clear blue gulf waters. These festivals all vie for our attention, dollars and palates. Not that there's a bad one in the bunch mind you. But, now we have clear winner in the race for our … [Read more...]
The LIST Best of 2010: #14 Braza Brazilian Steakhouse
If you're a meat lover then this type of place is all you. There is enough beef, pork, lamb and chicken here to satisfy even the hungriest carnivore. And, it's not just shear quantity, it's good too! #14 - Braza Brazilian Steakhouse The Churrascaria restaurant concept has … [Read more...]
The LIST Best of 2010: #15 Pegasus Greek Restaurant
OK, I'm not exactly sure what's going on over at our next place. It seems to make our year end top 20 each time. It's not flashy. It's not fine dining. And, you don't hear everyone talking about it as one of the "hot" Sarasota restaurants. So what gives? Why are so many of you … [Read more...]