Sarasota FloridaRESTAURANTS & PLACES TO EAT
Listed below are some of the best restaurants and places to eat near Sarasota, Florida.
1. Drift Kitchen & Bar
COASTAL CUISINE WITH VIEWS
Drift Kitchen & Bar offers a chic, contemporary setting within the Lido Beach Resort, featuring panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico. The menu focuses on elevated coastal cuisine, with fresh seafood, prime steaks, and inventive small plates, complemented by handcrafted cocktails. Guests enjoy a sophisticated ambiance perfect for romantic dinners or celebratory gatherings by the water.
2. Duval's Fresh Local Seafood
AWARD-WINNING SEAFOOD SPOT
Duval's Fresh Local Seafood is renowned for its commitment to sourcing the freshest seafood from local waters, ensuring a true taste of Sarasota's coastal bounty. The restaurant's menu highlights signature dishes such as blackened grouper, crab cakes, and shrimp and grits, all served in a lively, inviting downtown atmosphere. Diners experience attentive service and a vibrant setting ideal for seafood lovers seeking both classic and creative fare.
3. Bavaro's Pizza Napoletana & Pastaria
AUTHENTIC NEAPOLITAN PIZZA
Bavaro's Pizza Napoletana & Pastaria specializes in traditional wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas and fresh house-made pastas. Guests are treated to a genuine Italian experience, complete with an open kitchen where pizzaiolos craft each pizza to order. The warm, rustic ambiance makes it an inviting spot for casual family outings and group gatherings.
4. Indigenous
FARM-TO-TABLE EXCELLENCE
Indigenous is celebrated for its farm-to-table approach, spotlighting regionally sourced, seasonal ingredients in inventive American cuisine. The restaurant offers a cozy, eco-friendly setting within a restored historic cottage, making each meal feel special and intimate. Menu standouts include locally caught fish, creative vegetable dishes, and thoughtfully crafted desserts.
5. The Melting Pot
INTERACTIVE FONDUE DINING
The Melting Pot provides an interactive fondue experience perfect for groups and special occasions, featuring a four-course menu of cheese fondues, fresh salads, entrée fondues, and chocolate desserts. Guests enjoy a relaxed, intimate ambiance with private booth seating and tableside cooking. It is an ideal destination for a leisurely evening of sharing and conversation.
6. Ocean Prime
UPSCALE SURF AND TURF
Ocean Prime delivers an upscale dining experience featuring premium seafood, prime steaks, and an extensive wine and cocktail list in an elegant, contemporary atmosphere. Signature menu items include oysters, lobster bisque, filet mignon, and Chilean sea bass. The sophisticated setting, enhanced by attentive service and stylish decor, makes it a popular choice for both business and celebration.
7. Marcello Ristorante
CHEF-DRIVEN ITALIAN FARE
Marcello Ristorante offers an engaging culinary experience with a frequently changing Italian menu prepared by Chef Marcello Aquino in an open kitchen. Signature dishes such as shrimp and lobster pappardelle highlight the chef's creativity, complemented by an exceptional wine selection. The lively, intimate atmosphere makes each visit unique and memorable.
8. The Rosemary & Thyme
CLASSIC AMERICAN BISTRO
The Rosemary & Thyme presents elevated American comfort food in a charming, welcoming setting with both indoor and outdoor seating. The menu features seasonal ingredients highlighted in dishes such as roasted chicken, seafood pasta, and decadent desserts. Its relaxed yet refined ambiance attracts families, couples, and groups seeking approachable, well-crafted cuisine.
9. Dry Dock Waterfront Grill
CASUAL WATERFRONT DINING
Dry Dock Waterfront Grill boasts stunning views of Sarasota Bay and specializes in fresh seafood and classic American favorites served in a laid-back, nautical-themed setting. Highlights include grouper sandwiches, crab cakes, and tropical cocktails enjoyed on the outdoor deck. The easygoing atmosphere and picturesque location create a quintessential Florida dining experience.
10. Veronica Fish & Oyster
SEAFOOD AND RAW BAR
Veronica Fish & Oyster features a creative menu centered on fresh oysters, seafood towers, and globally inspired coastal dishes. The stylish, modern interior, paired with a vibrant bar scene, makes it a favorite for both casual lunches and lively dinners. Guests enjoy expertly prepared seafood in a setting that combines sophistication with a relaxed beach-town vibe.