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 Darwin’s on 4th. Chef Darwin Santa Maria has had a big hand in helping put Sarasota on the culinary map. And, now he’s looking to stand the craft beer world on it’s head too. I’m a fan of that.
So, I’m probably not going to tell you anything here that hasn’t already been shouted a thousand and one times. If you’ve ever read, Sarasota Magazine, the Sarasota Herald-Tribune, SRQ Magazine or The Observer then you’ve seen the accolades in print. I won’t pile on.
Yes, we have a lot of Peruvian restaurants in Sarasota. Not sure why, but, I’m not complaining. And, yes, Darwin’s is a damn good one. He could probably open in any BIG city in America and be super successful. Selfishly, I’m happy he decided to open here. Can Darwin brew beer? Yes, again. You see a trend developing, right?
Given all of that, you would just expect that Darwin wouldĀ put together a knockoutĀ Savor Sarasota menu. And, of course, he has.
Just like yesterday’s trip to Sardinia, Darwin’s is a dinner only affair. That’s not a problem with me. I love dinner. OK, here we go last one (for this year).
Dinner First Course (Choice of one)
“Lima” Chopped Salad
Lettuce, tomato, onion, avocado, choclo, black beans, Queso fresco, orange chipotle vinaigrette.
“Maya” Shrimp Ceviche
Red bell peppers, avocado, cancha, plantain chips, orange juice.
Mango Gazpacho
Dinner Second Course (Choice of one)
Short Ribs
Malbec braised short ribs, truffle chive risotto, crispy yucca.
BBQ Guava Glazed Salmon
Aji Amarillo potato puree, tangerine beer braised collard greens.
Arroz Con Pato
Grilled duck breast, green pea and beer risotto, criolla roasted red pepper.
Dinner Third Course (Choice of one)
“Tumbao” Pot of Mousse
Bitter sweet dark and white chocolate mousses, chocolate “Pot”, cappuccino ice cream, mango and raspberry sauces.
Tres Leches
Extra moist cake soaked in three milks, strawberries and meringue, served with strawberry gelato.
Banana Flan
Banana Chutney, Banana ice cream, caramelized bananas, Brazilian nut praline.
I thought this would be easy. But, like all of the other menus we’ve featured in the past two weeks, choices are hard. I sound like I’m whining a bit. I should stop now. Alright, I’m ready. Dinner here I come!
First course,Ā “Maya” Shrimp Ceviche. No brainer. Darwin’s has some of the best ceviche in town. Too tough to pass on. Second,Ā Short Ribs. Who’s says NO to Darwin’s Malbec braised short ribs? Hands please.. Third, or as I like to say, home stretch,Ā Tres Leches.
Now, here’s a little bonus for all of you. Since they brew great beer at Darwin’s, I’m going to recommend my own beer paring. Oh, forget that, they’ve already taken the time to pair them perfectly! Here you go. First course, Sirwisa, “Authentic German Pilsner Beer brewed with the best combination of noble hops from Bavaria“. Second course,Ā Ayawasca, “Belgian Strong Ale ā Ruby color, caramel, malty, Belgian yeast“. And, third (my pairing), Marron Ale, “Medium body, bready and toasty, biscuit, toffee“.
YES, now I’m satisfied! It’s been fun the past two weeks discovering some delicious Savor Sarasota food finds. You’ll be on your own through the weekend. I’m sure you’ll do just fine.
NOTE – We’re hoping to post a list of the Savor Sarasota restaurants that are continuing their prix fixe specials into the summer. Please check back for a list of those places.
ANOTHER NOTE – Great job Visit Sarasota on this years Savor Sarasota Restaurant Week. It takes a lot of hard work to pull off a culinary event that’s so great. Can’t wait until 2016. Cheers! to a job well done!
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