Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to our beautiful Sarasota, exploring the city’s dining landscape is an absolute must. I’ve had the pleasure of discovering some truly delightful restaurants in the area. Here are a few of my favorite dining spots in Sarasota that I believe you should try. Let me know how you like them!
Mediterraneo
1970 Main Street
Sarasota, FL 34236
Where authentic Italian cuisine meets contemporary elegance. When it comes to experiencing the finest of contemporary Italian cuisine in Sarasota, Mediterraneo has set the standard since its opening in 1996. Under the same ownership since its inception, Mediterraneo has consistently garnered accolades and prestigious awards, solidifying its reputation as a culinary gem. Dining at Mediterraneo is not just a meal, it’s an immersive experience. The restaurant’s warm and friendly atmosphere is steeped in unmistakably genuine Italian hospitality. The recent complete remodel has transformed the interior into a chic and comfortable space, adorned with framed pictures of Italy and its captivating landscapes. The extensive menu at Mediterraneo caters to a diverse range of palates, from the most sophisticated to the simplest. Specializing in fresh seafood, succulent veal, a variety of pasta dishes, and tantalizing thin-crust, wood-fired pizza. To complement the dining experience, Mediterraneo boasts a wine list renowned throughout Sarasota for its depth and uniqueness in Italian wine offerings.
Must Try: COSTOLETTA DI VITELLO ALLA MILANESE CON RUCOLA E POMODORI (Pounded and breaded Veal chop topped with arugula and tomatoes)
1592 Wood Fired Kitchen & Cocktails
1592 Main Street
Sarasota, FL 34236
Located in the heart of downtown Sarasota, 1592 is a vibrant hub where individuals gather to socialize, savor delectable cuisine, and partake in an exceptional dining experience. The narrative of 1592 commenced 16 years ago in Montreal, Canada, where the destinies of Edward Zaki and Alexandre Gosselin converged. The duo forged an extraordinary bond and evolved into exceptional partners in their culinary endeavors, driven by a shared aspiration: to deliver contemporary culinary marvels through their curated restaurants. The prevailing ethos at 1592 is synonymous with fire, with the elemental feature being the wood-fired grill where every creation takes shape.
Must Try: Fried Zucchini Beignets (tzatziki, feta, capers, lemon) and Moussaka (prime ground beef, eggplant, potatoes, tomatoes béchamel, herb oil, mixed greens, paprika oil)
Pho 101 Noodle House
6125 S Tamiami Trail
Sarasota, FL 34231
Nestled just north of the Siesta Key South bridge, this hidden hem is a must-stop destination for those seeking genuine and delicious Vietnamese flavors. A clean and welcoming ambiance and an inviting aroma of simmering broth and fresh herbs the moment you step in the door. The star of the menu, the traditional pho noodle soup, a flavorful dish prepared with a harmonious blend of rice, noodles, tender meat and aromatic herbs. Beyond the signature Pho, they offer a diverse selection of authentic Vietnamese dishes.
Must Try: Tom Yum Noodle Soup and Build Your Own Pho Bowl
Brine Seafood & Raw Bar
2250 Gulf Gate Dr
Sarasota, FL 34231
Located in the Gulf Gate neighborhood of Sarasota, Brine Seafood and Raw Bar is a culinary gem that caters to seafood enthusiast. With a carefully curated menu that highlights seafood classics from the Atlantic coast, this upscale casual eatery offers an exceptional dining experience that is sure to delight. The restaurant takes great pride in sourcing its products from the most reputable watermen in the United States, ensuring that every dish is a testament to freshness, flavor, and sustainability. Whether it’s the delicate sweetness of East coast oysters or the briny richness of West coast oysters, the a la carte raw bar at Brine Seafood and Raw Bar is a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to offering the best of the sea. In addition to its impressive selection of oysters, Brine Seafood and Raw Bar has made a name for itself with its renowned crab cakes. These delectable delicacies are a testament to the chef’s culinary prowess, expertly crafted to showcase the sweet and succulent flavors of premium crab meat.
Must Try: Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes and Lobster Roll
Florence and the Spice Boys
4990 S Tamiami Trail
Sarasota, FL 34231
From their humble beginnings as a vibrant green, jungle-themed food truck serving modern Middle Eastern fusion street food in 2019, they have now evolved into a full-service Mediterranean restaurant with a full bar. But what kind of food can you expect from this culinary gem? The answer is quite simple – the kind of food that is born out of sheer passion and creativity. Their mission is clear – to create a dining experience that is unique and leaves a lasting impression on your palate. The journey from a food truck to a brick-and-mortar establishment in The Landings in late 2022, they are now scheduled to open doors to a second location in late 2024 or early 2025.
Must Try: Chicken Shawarma Pita (chicken thigh, pickled slaw, mild banana peppers, egg, tahini, zhug, amba
