You booked a trip to Sarasota so now where do you eat? Don’t worry hungry travelers, we have done the work for you! We picked some of our absolute favorite restaurants you will want to try on your next visit. This beautiful destination has the perfect mix of culture, outdoor adventure, relaxation and of course great food! This location is also very family-friendly with lots to do, which we will explore further in our next post!
If you haven’t booked your trip yet and are looking for somewhere to stay you will definitely want to check out our Sarasota vacation rentals with hundreds of great options. What are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Sarasota today!
Top Restaurants in Sarasota, Florida
Owen’s Fish Camp
This local favorite is a great place to find fresh seafood and some good old fashioned Southern classics. The restaurant also has a unique rustic atmosphere. It is set in a historic house with a tire swing out back, string lights and everything charming. You will want to try the Oyster Po’ Boys, soft shelled crabs and of course the traditional Southern grits.
Pro tip: On many nights they have live music so we suggest you check the website or call to see what they have going on that week.
Mediterraneo
Mediterraneo is an upscale, yet cozy and welcoming, Northern-style Italian restaurant. So why choose this restaurant? Well, for starters the food is incredible. You will want to try everything from the pasta to the pizza to the seafood. They also have an extensive wine list and impeccable service. If you are craving Italian then this is your spot!
Pro tip: We suggest trying the Veal Chop Milanese. It is perfectly prepared and a definite standout on the menu!
1592 Wood Fired Kitchen & Cocktails
This vibrant restaurant offers modern cuisine often made with fresh local produce. The interior is chic and stylish and the outdoor patio is the perfect place to unwind after a day of sightseeing and activities. You will want to try the spicy falafel, poutine and grilled whole branzino. Yum! They also offer specials like 50% off some wines on Tuesdays and oyster Thursdays and a great happy hour!
Duval’s Fresh. Local. Seafood.
Duval’s hands down has some of the best and freshest seafood in this part of the Sunshine State. The menu is full of daily catch options, most of them locally sourced. They also have excellent service and fantastic craft cocktails and wine. If you have kids with you, no worries! They also have a great kids menu. There is a happy hour offered daily on the patio or at the bar with nice drink offerings and tasty bar bites.
Indigenous
If you are looking for an exceptional dining experience, Indigenous is worth the trip! This restaurant is in a charming converted home and has a menu chock full of seasonal, sustainable and local ingredients. The elevated cuisine is prepared by award-winning Chef Steve Phelps. The beer and wine selection is well thought out and top notch. If you are looking for a true farm-to-table experience, well look no further!
Pro tip: We suggest you order the sturgeon if it is on the menu. It is brought in from the local Mote Marine Aqua Farms. Either way make sure to ask your server about the local specials!
State Street
This trendy restaurant has creative American fare and unique artisanal cocktails. They have a perfect outdoor patio for enjoying some of the Florida sunshine. The menu features some fresh seasonal dishes, so make sure to ask about the local offerings. Whether you are looking for seafood, salad or something more hearty the menu here has something for everyone. They also offer a great brunch and “late night bites.”
Columbia
Columbia restaurant is a historic icon in Sarasota. It is Florida’s oldest restaurant chain and has been around since 1905. Can you believe that? That is a century of cooking traditions and serving delicious authentic Spanish-Cuban cooking. They also have incredible sangria and a great wine list. The atmosphere is lively and vibrant with colorful tiles and amazing architecture.
Pro tip: We suggest coming here in off-peak hours since they get crowded and sightseeing in the area if you have time. The 1905 salad is prepared at the table and a must order along with the sangria!
Selva Grill
Selva offers fantastic and flavorful Latin fusion cuisine. The Peruvian dishes are innovative with exciting flavors. The food presentations are like a work of art. You will be impressed! You will want to try the award-winning ceviche, crab cakes and pork belly chicharron. Everything on the menu is fantastic! They now also offer lunch Monday-Friday. Take a step inside their vision of a perfect meal and get ready for a full sensory experience.
Comments are closed.