SAVOR THE FLAVORS
LONGBOAT KEY
Blue Dolphin Café
Andrew’s favorite breakfast spot. Jill and Rob along with their terrific staff serve a fast and friendly breakfast and lunch. The menu includes terrific omelets, sandwiches, wraps, waffles, griddlecakes and health-conscious dishes – at reasonable prices. 7:00am-3:00pm daily in season – 8:00am – 3:00pm off season (May-November). Dinner on Fridays in season (December to April) with reservations. 5370 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. 941-383-3787.
Chart House
In an area brimming with fantastic restaurants, you wouldn’t think one with more than 25 locations across the U.S. could compete for recognition, but this one does. Relaxed and casual, it has stunning views of New Pass and the Gulf of Mexico. The décor features fine exotic woods and original artworks. The spinach salad and crab-avocado-mango appetizer are great, but for the extraordinary, try the rich chocolate lava cake, cooked to order and served warm. Sunday-Thursday 5:00pm-9:00pm, Friday & Saturday 5:00pm-10:00pm. 201 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. 941-383-5593. www.chart-house.com
Dry Dock Waterfront Grill
Featuring a full bar, indoor, outdoor and waterfront dining, this favorite of the locals specializes in fresh seafood from the Gulf of Mexico, particularly grouper. It also serves a mean chargrilled burger as well as center-cut steaks. Don’t miss the crab cakes or grilled shrimp. Monday-Saturday 11:30am-9:00pm. Dinner Sunday 4:30-9:00pm from November to April. 941-383-0102.
Euphemia Haye
Providing fine dining since 1980, this romantic world-class restaurant on Longboat Key offers a variety of classical and eclectic dishes, including some for vegetarians. Try the signature Crisp Roast Duckling with bread stuffing and berry sauce. Then retire to The Haye Loft for a fine selection of coffees, spirits and the best desserts in town accompanied by nightly live music. Andrew likes to eat at the bar and share stories with locals upstairs or down. Sunday-Thursday 6:00pm-10:00pm, Friday & Saturday 5:00-10:00pm. The Haye Loft is open 6:00pm-11:00pm. 5540 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. 941-383-3633. www.euphemiahaye.com
Harry’s Continental Kitchens
Three gems has this crown: fine dining, gourmet deli and premier catering. With an award-winning menu and wine list, Harry’s also has beers from around the world. If you enjoy Continental classics or inventive seafood, try this cozy Florida style restaurant. Harry’s Brownies are to die for. Another fun bar to eat at. Andrew says not to miss the prepared dinners to go from the deli. A great alternative to eating out. Lunch 11:00am-2:30pm, Dinner 5:00pm-9:30pm, Sunday Brunch 10:00am-2:30pm. 525 St. Judes Drive, Longboat Key. Reservations are suggested for the Dining Room. 941-383-0777. www.harryskitchen.com
Mar Vista
Established in 1911, this Florida classic on Sarasota Bay overlooks Sister Keys. Whether dining indoors or out, enjoy fresh seafood or steaks in the charm of its warm hospitality. Andrew loves to take the boat here and dine on the patio. One of the most beautiful views on Longboat or anywhere. 11:30am-10:00pm daily. 760 Broadway, Longboat Key or by sea to Marker 39. 941-383-2391. www.marvista-restaurant.com
Moore’s Stone Crab
Three guesses what they serve here. By land or sea, you couldn’t find better Florida fresh seafood anywhere. Family owned and operated since 1967, Moore’s is casual, kid-friendly and overlooks the Sarasota Bay. During stone crab season (mid-October to mid-May) is best. They’ll even deliver fresh stone crabs to your door. With a spectacular Bay view, this is one of Andrew’s favorite boating destinations. 11:30am-9:30pm daily. 800 Broadway, Longboat Key. 941-383-1748. www.stonecrab.net
Nosh-A Rye
Upscale and kosher-style, this New York style deli-restaurant is nestled in the Avenue of the Flowers Shopping Center. Known for sandwiches named after old movie stars, it specializes in corn beef sandwiches, homemade rye bread and bagels. The décor is Hollywood memorabilia with an art deco flair. 8:00am-8:00pm daily. 23 Avenue of the Flowers, Longboat Key. 941-387-9300.
Pattigeorge’s
Drawing its culinary inspiration from coastlines around the world, this stylish waterfront restaurant brings together Latin American, Caribbean, Asian and Italian nuances to local seafood in a way that pleases the modern palate. Along with the grilled and barbecued meats, stir fry, crisp greens and house-baked desserts, there is a dedication to quality and freshness in all their dishes. Enjoy the bay views with one of their very fine wines. This is another of Andrew’s top boating destinations. 5:30pm-9:30pm daily. 4120 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. 941-383-5111. www.pattigeorges.com
Sunset Bar & Grill at the Hilton
Just steps from the white-sand beach and the sparkling waters of the Gulf of Mexico, this gem of the Hilton Longboat Key offers great island-style dining with a breathtaking view. Breakfast and lunch are served on the deck. The Grill excels in seafood and steaks. 7:00am-10:00pm. 4711 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. 941-383-2451. www.longboatkey.hilton.com
ST. ARMANDS CIRCLE
Blue Dolphin Café
Jill and Rob’s original and extremely popular breakfast and lunch spot. The menu includes omelets, sandwiches, wraps, waffles, griddlecakes and health-conscious dishes – at reasonably prices. 7:30am-3:00pm daily. Open for dinner in season (December to April) with reservations. 470 John Ringling Blvd., St Armands Circle. 941-388-3566
Café L’Europe
Striking a perfect balance between tradition and innovation, this grande dame of area restaurants has long been relied upon for gracious and attentive service by generations. Featuring creative menu choices that endure the test of time, it can also by relied on for award-winning classical and New European cuisine, as well as world-class wines and spirits. Lunch Monday-Saturday 11:30 pm -3:30 pm, Sunday noon-3:00pm. Dinner 5:30pm -10:00pm. Reservations necessary. 431 St. Armands Circle. 941-388-4415. www.neweuropeancuisine.com
Crab & Fin
A landmark for more than 20 years, this premier seafood destination offers pristine quality finfish, shellfish and caviar from around the world. Though the wine list is largely domestic with some European nuances, it will satisfy the tastes of novice and connoisseur alike. Along with the house-made pastas, handmade bread, sandwiches and the finest cuts of steaks and chops, the comfortably elegant service makes this an experience like no other. Dine inside or out. Monday-Thursday 11:30am-10:00pm, Friday & Saturday 11:30am-10:30pm, Sunday noon-10:00pm. Reservations recommended for dinner. 420 St. Armands Circle, 941-388-3964. www.crabfin.com.
Columbia
Since 1905, the Hernandez/Gonzmart family has earned international acclaim for consistently outstanding Spanish cuisine. Old World charm, century-old family recipes and fresh stone crabs contribute to an unequalled dining experience. The 1905 Salad is wonderful, but be warned – it has plenty of garlic! Saturday & Sunday noon-11:00pm. 411 St. Armands Circle, 941-388-3987. www.columbiarestaurant.com
Kilwin’s Chocolates
Kilwin’s on St. Armands Circle is one in a family of nationwide confectionery shoppes that also offers online shopping, specializing in chocolates and ice creams and original recipes. It’s well worth the visit when your sweet tooth needs satisfying. Andrew’s pick for after dinner-sweets on the Circle – get in line. 10:00am-11:00pm, Friday & Saturday until 11:30pm. 312 John Ringling Blvd., St. Armands Circle. 941-388-3200. www.kilwins.com
Tommy Bahama’s Tropical Café
The food is always rated as excellent and the staff, polite and friendly. From Saba steak salad to Jamaican ribs to good old-fashioned beef and mashed potatoes, to the freshest seafood, the food just melts in your mouth. Fun place, great entertainment. Andrew says not to miss the sensational clothes store downstairs. Perfect to get you looking and feeling in that island state of mind. Sunday-Thursday 11:00am-11:00pm, Friday & Saturday 11:00am-midnight. 300 John Ringling Blvd., St. Armands 941-388-2888. www.tommybahama.com
New Pass Grill & Bait Shop
They’ve got bait. They’ve got burgers. In fact, its famous for its New Pass Burger and was voted “Best Place for Bait and a Burger” by the Weekly Planet. Nostalgic murals reflect its past. Built originally in 1929 as a camp for Gulf fishermen, it overlooks the clear, shimmering waters and sandy knolls of New Pass. Bring your fishing pole or rent one there. Monday-Thursday 7:00am-4:30pm, Friday & Saturday 7:00am-7:00pm. 1498 Ken Thompson Parkway, City Island. 941-388-3050. www.newpassgrill-baitshop.com
ANNA MARIA ISLAND
Beach Bistro
Excellent high-end dining with a wonderful location on the Anna Maria Island beach, the Bistro has won the Gold Spoon five times and the Award of Excellence from Wine and Spectator six times. Andrew’s choice for the one Island restaurant to go to if you’ve got one night in town. ‘Nuff said. 5:30pm-10:00pm daily. Reservations. 6600 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. 941-778-6444. www.beachbistro.com
Beach House
Located on Bradenton Beach on the Gulf of Mexico, this is a great family restaurant. Dine inside or under the stars while enjoying the night’s live entertainment. Let the kids play on the beach while you enjoy a refreshing tropical drink. Enjoy seafood, steaks and salads. Andrew says not to miss the sunsets and maybe you’ll see the “green flash.” Does life get any better? Sunday-Thursday 11:30am-9:00pm, Friday & Saturday 11:30am-10:00pm. Entertainment nightly. 200 Gulf Drive, Bradenton Beach. 941-779-2222. www.beachhouse-restaurant.com
Bridge Tender Inn
Found on historic Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach, this is a great place for Portobello mushrooms and the best New York Strip steaks. The air is enjoyable and relaxing, though the piano can sometimes be loud. It specializes in seafood, steaks and ribs. 11:00am-10:00pm daily with a late night menu in the bar until midnight. Live entertainment every evening and weekend afternoons. Andrew likes to come by boat, eat and stroll the stores. 135 Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach or by sea to Marker 49 (3 docks available). 941-778-4849. www.bridgetenderinn.com
Rod and Reel Pier Restaurant
You’ve really got to try Rod And Reel’s Fresh Seafood Omelet, cooked with shrimp, scallops and crab, with a choice of cheese, home fries or grits’n’toast. It also serves traditional breakfasts, as well as its famous Fresh Belgian Style waffles with fresh fruit and whipped cream. An all-around excellent spot for seafood at reasonable prices, it also serves a mean Two Fisted Burger. Breakfast 8:00am-11:00am. Lunch and Dinner 11:30am-9:00pm. 875 North Shore Drive, Anna Maria. 941-778-1885. www.rodandreelpier.com
Sandbar Restaurant
A nice place to impress out-of-town guests, this local favorite is also a great place to kick back and enjoy a sunset. Guess the exact sunset time and get a bottle of bubbly. Under sun or stars, there’s a great view of the Gulf. Enjoy seafood, steaks and salads on the deck to nightly music. Sunday-Thursday 11:30am-9:00pm, Friday & Saturday 11:30am-10:00pm. Live entertainment nightly on the deck. 100 Spring Avenue, Anna Maria. 941-778-0444. www.sandbar-restaurant.com
Sign of the Mermaid
I couldn’t find this sign in the horoscopes, but it stands for excellent food and service by Zagat’s standards. Its 1913 cottage on Anna Maria Island has been described as funky, but I’ll go with quaint. Either way, it features award-winning Florida-style Continental Cuisine in an intimate romantic setting. Tuesday-Saturday 5:00pm-10:00pm. Closed Sunday & Monday. 9707 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. Reservations suggested. 941-778-9399
The Sun House Restaurant and Bar
Located next to Bridge Walk Resort at Bridge Street and Gulf Drive, the Sun House features great views of the Gulf of Mexico and the Intercoastal Waterway. Sunsets are a big deal and celebrated with complimentary green flash shooters. The cuisine is Floribbean, handled with creativity and style. Try the Grassy Key Grouper, chargrilled over sauteed spinach with baby shrimp, or the Filet Mignon Island Style, chargrilled with roasted shallot demiglace, grilled oranges and boniato mashed potatoes. Reservations suggested. Monday-Saturday 11:00am-10:00pm. Sunday 11:00am-9:00pm. 111 Gulf Drive South, Bradenton Beach. 941-782-1122.
SIESTA KEY
Broken Egg Restaurant
A local favorite consistently voted one of the best spots for breakfast in Sarasota, the Broken Egg also serves a fantastic lunch menu. With freshly baked in-house desserts, interesting catering service and an art gallery, it’s truly Sarasotan. Monday-Sunday 7:30am-3:00pm. 210 Avenida Madera, Siesta Key. 941-346-2750, www.thebrokenegg.com
Javier's Restaurant and Wine Bar
If you’ve traveled the Americas, you’ll know the food can be varied, interesting and highly eclectic. Peru’s cuisine is no exception. Mary and Javier Arana have achieved something unique in the northern hemisphere: a fun, festive restaurant with the feel a village café nestled in the Andes. Pacific seafoods, chiles, New World wines and Peruvian beers all combine with Hispanic and Native American and even Japanese and Chinese nuances to create a one-of-a-kind culinary experience. You’ll love the incredible mural in the lush, plant-filled dining room. Tuesday-Saturday 5:00pm to closing. 20% off if seated by 5:45pm. Reservations appreciated. 6621 Midnight Pass Road, Siesta Key. 941-349-1792. www.javiersrestaurant.com
Ophelia’s On the Bay
Whether it’s cedar-roasted salmon with ancho chile glaze, Caribbean grouper, medallions of duck or juicy lamb chops, Ophelia’s is a great place for American cuisine. Its Old Florida charm and outdoor patio overlooking the bay combine for an enchanting evening. Andrew says, come by boat for one of the most romantic dinners on the Bay. 5:00pm-10:00pm daily. 9015 Midnight Pass Road, Siesta Key. Reservations suggested. 941-349-2212 www.opheliasonthebay.com
SARASOTA
Barnacle Bill’s
Situated in the heard of Sarasota, Barnacle Bill’s has taken “Best Seafood Restaurant” 12 years in a row. Fresh, delicious seafood and premium beef make this unassuming location one of the best little gems in Sarasota. Free valet parking available. Monday – Thursday 11:30am – 9:00pm. Friday & Saturday 11:30am – 10:0pm. Sunday 4:00pm – 9:00pm. 1526 Main Street, Sarasota. 941.365.6800. www.barnaclebillsseafood.com
Bonefish Grill
From innovative recipes to contemporary renditions of the classis, Bonefish Grill’s chef-driven menu and bar-fresh cocktails are designed to indulge your senses, regardless of the occasion. The Big City Bat is perfect for relaxing with old friends or meeting new ones, and the dining room feels comfortable, intimate and inviting. Try the Bang Bang Shrimp – you’ll order it every time you visit! Monday – Thursday 4:00pm – 10:30pm. Friday & Saturday 4:00pm – 11:30pm. Sunday 4:00pm – 10:0pm. 3971 South Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. 941.924.9090. www.bonefishgrill.com
Brasserie Belge
The dining experience at Brasserie Belge is enticing, with superb food in generous portions served in an upscale “European casual” ambiance. Belgian waffles, chocolate and beer solidify the brasserie’s authentic roots, with a menu ranging from croquettes au fromage to steak tartare and finally, mussels in over a dozen different sauces. Happy hour from 4:00pm – 6:00pm daily, with beers and wines two-for-one. Monday – Thursday 11:00am – 11:0pm. Friday & Saturday 11:00am – 1:00am. Sunday 5:00pm – 11:00pm. 1990 Main Street, Sarasota. 941.706.1944. www.brasseriebelge.com
Ceviche Tapas Bar and Restaurant
This unique Spanish Tapas restaurant features a menu comprised of over 100 different hot and cold tapas, as well as paellas and cazuelas. An exclusive Spanish wine list has been carefully designed by the owners and the Sangria has been voted “Best in Tampa Bay.” Located in the historic Times building, the 4-floor restaurant includes an incredible roof-top bar with views of the water and unforgettable happy hour sunsets. Dining Room: Tuesday – Thursday 5:00pm – 12:00am. Friday & Saturday 5:00pm – 1:00am. Sunday 5:00pm – 11:00pm. Flamenco Room: Friday & Saturday 7:00pm – 2:00am. Loca Luna Rooftop Bar: Tuesday – Thursday 4:00pm – 11:00pm. Friday & Saturday 4:00pm – 12:00am. Sunday 5:00pm – 10:00pm. 1216 1st Street, Sarasota. 941.952.1036. www.ceviche.com
First Watch
Known for bringing the “Fresh Idea” of Brunch to Sarasota, First Watch starts your morning off with a pot of coffee and complimentary newspapers. Freshness is never compromised in their fruits and vegetables. Try the French Toast! Open year-round from 7:00am – 2:30pm, excluding Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. 1395 Main Street, Sarasota. 941.954.1395. www.firstwatch.com
Fleming's Prime Steakhouse and Wine Bar
When it comes to world-class food and fine wine, Fleming’s Steakhouse is a paradise. Enjoy and extensive menu featuring the finest aged prime beef, fresh chops, market-fresh seafood, or any of Chef Charlie Flint’s innovative selections of the day. Be sure to sample a wine flight from their award-winning wine list of “100 wines by the glass” with any meal or decadent dessert. Monday – Thursday 5:00pm – 10:0pm. Friday & Saturday 5:00pm – 11:00pm. Sunday 5:00pm – 9:00pm. 2001 Siesta Drive, Sarasota. 941.358.9463(WINE). www.flemingssteakhouse.com
Gecko’s Grill & Pub
Locally owned and operated since 992, Gecko’s has been nicknamed the “Cheers” of Sarasota. Serving lunch, dinner and a complete late-night menu, American pub food is given a gourmet twist with nightly chef specials, sports trivia and a full bar with daily happy hours. Sunday – Wednesday 11:00am – 12:00am. Thursday – Saturday 11:00am – 1:00am. 1900 Hillview Street, Sarasota. 941.953.2929. www.geckosgrill.com
Marina Jack’s
The newly remodeled Dining Room is located on the second floor, offering an award winning wine list and spectacular views of Sarasota Bay. An exceptional menu features such items as Pan Seared Diver Scallops, Chargrilled Wild Certified Salmon and New Zealand Rack of Lamb. On Sundays from 11:30am - 2:00pm, a plated brunch is offered in addition to the lunch menu.
For a more casual encounter, join Marina Jack on the Main Level at the Deep Six Lounge and Piano Bar. Open for Lunch and Dinner daily. Featured in the evenings are the area’s finest flatbreads, including the Cheeseburger Flatbread, Raspberries and Brie, Beef Tenderloin and Blackened Chicken. Live music is featured seven nights per week!
Relax and unwind to the ocean breezes from the Gulf of Mexico at The Portside Patio, the perfect place to enjoy your favorite tropical beverages and your favorite appetizers, salads and sandwiches! Live entertainment begins at 6:00pm nightly on the piano Tuesdays through Sundays.
For an extra-special evening, board the Marina Jack II, Sarasota’s newest and most luxurious dinner boat. A relaxing cruise through the inter-coastal waters and the Gulf of Mexico, enjoy delicious dining, outstanding views, and world class service. Air-conditioned salons and open air outside deck provide you with best way to enjoy the waters of the Gulf of Mexico, playful dolphins, warm sunshine and relaxing Gulf of Mexico breezes. What better way to enjoy water front dining than to be on the water? Open daily from 11:30am – 10:00pm, excluding holidays. 2 Marina Plaza, Sarasota. 941.365.4232. www.marinajacks.com
Mattison’s City Grille
Located in the heart of downtown Sarasota, Mattison's City Grille is perfect for Market Day Saturday breakfast, à la carte Sunday Brunch, lunch, dinner, late-night dining, and enjoying drinks at the covered outdoor bar with live music. Chef Paul Mattison has created an award-winning, exciting al fresco menu with an Italian edge offering sandwiches, brick-oven pizzas, mouth watering lamb, filet, fresh seafood, salads, appetizers and more. “You’ll come for the atmosphere and stay for the food!” Sunday & Monday 11:00am – 10:00pm. Tuesday – Thursday 11:00am – 11:00pm. Friday 11:00am – 12:00am. Saturday 9:30am – 12:00am. 1 North Lemon Avenue, Sarasota. 941.330.0440. www.mattisons.com
Mediterraneo
With it's modern but classic Italian cuisine and emphasis on artisanal Northern Italian style, Mediterraneo has consistently been rated one of the top restaurants by the Florida Zagat. Mediterraneo's warm and friendly atmosphere is distinguished by unmistakably genuine Italian hospitality. Offering an extensive menu with an array of dishes which are sure to satisfy the most sophisticated palate to the simplest of taste, Mediterraneo specializes in fresh seafood, veal, pasta dishes and thin crust, wood fired pizza. A dedicated bakery located directly above the restaurant creates all the fresh ciabatta, focaccia, desserts, pastries and pastas. Lunch: Monday – Friday 11:30am – 2:30pm. Dinner: Sunday –Thursday 5:30pm – 10:30pm. Friday & Saturday 5:30pm – 11:00pm. 1970 Main Street, Sarasota. 941.365.4122. www.mediteranneorest.com
Michael’s on East
Michael’s on East takes fine dining to another level with its cutting edge cuisine and extraordinary atmosphere. Upon entering the dining room, you are immediately dazzled by the plush design and inspired décor. The restaurant’s intimate aura, along with its contemporary fare and incomparable service, will create an unparalleled dining experience and give you every reason to keep coming back. Monday – Friday 11:30am - 11:00pm. Saturday 5:30pm – 12:00am. 1212 East Avenue South, Sarsota. 941.366.0007. www.michaelsoneast.com
Pacific Rim
Specializing in a Japanese-Thai Fusion Cuisine, Pacific Rim is well-known for a creative and delicious selection of Sushi. Every aspect of the restaurant has been fine-tuned over the past seven years to provide excellent food in a relaxing environment. Monday – Thursday 11:30am – 9:30pm. Friday 11:30am – 10:30pm. Saturday 5:00pm – 10:30pm. Sunday 5:00pm – 9:00pm. 1859 Hillview Street, Sarasota. 941.330.8071. www.pacificrimsarasota.com
Patrick’s 1481
Located just up the street from the original “Patrick’s” location, Patrick’s 1481 is a visually stunning experience with big city flair. Great comfort food and libations are their specialty, with an award-winning menu that has claimed “Best Burger” 25 years in a row. Happy Hour is from 4:00pm – 7:00pm, seven days a week, and offers some of the best deals in town with $5 Specialty Martinis and $5 appetizers. Sunday – Thursday 11:00am – 11:00pm. Friday & Saturday 11:00am – 12:00am. Breakfast on the patio served Saturday & Sunday 8:30am – 11:00am. 1481 Main Street, Sarasota. 941.955.1481. www.patricks1481.com
Roy’s Hawaiian Fusion
Nowhere else will you find a culinary experience quite like the flavors, textures and colours found in Roy’s Cuisine. Combining the freshest local ingredients with European sauces and bold Asian spice, the menu features the fines seafood with a focus on delicacies from the oceans surrounding Hawaii. An award-winning wine list complements sushi, fresh shellfish, hand-cut meats, and specialties like Ono, Opakapaka and Onaga. Many signature dishes have become international favourites, enhanced by local Chefs trained under the tutelage of Roy Yumaguchi, himself. Aloha Hour every night from 4:30pm – 6:30pm. Sunday – Thursday 5:30pm – 9:00pm. Friday & Saturday 5:30pm – 10:00pm. 2001 Siesta Drive, Sarasota. 941.952.0109. www.roysrestaurant.com
Sam Snead’s Oak Grill & Tavern
“Where the locals come to eat!” If you live and breathe the game of golf, you’re bound to hunger for more than a few birdies. At Sam Snead’s Tavern, you can feast on your passion for the game, as well as great food. Experience the hand-picked, authentic memorabilia as your roam the richly decorated rooms, then choose from a wide selection of foods grilled exclusively with locally-cured oak. Monday – Sunday 11:30am – 10:00pm. 1830 South Osprey, Sarasota. 941.906.7771. www.samsneadssarasota.com
Selva Grill
Selva’s Nuevo Latino cuisine represents the marriage of exotic flavors from Latin America and the United States. A special emphasis on Peruvian dishes showcases fresh and innovative creations. Dine inside or out on several different “ceviches de la casa” that feature individual, distinct flavours. A rich selection of appetizers extend over into the South Beach style Selva Lounge. Try a signature cocktail or choose a glass off the extensive wine list while you enjoy the upbeat selection of local DJs on weekends in the lounge. Sunday – Thursday 5:00pm – 11:00pm. Friday & Saturday 5:00pm – 1:00am. 1345 Main Street, Sarasota. 941.362.4427. www.selvagrill.com
Station 400
Rich with old character and traditional charm, this completely restored 1852 railroad depot recalls a time when a slower speed of life was appreciated. Husband and wife owners, Chef Eric and Ellie May, surpass normal “café” expectancies with forward-thinking recipes that lend a fresh approach to breakfast and lunch classics. Using only the finest of local ingredients, Station 400 offers a uniquely simple, tasty breakfast experience in an unforgettably charming and comfortable atmosphere that will quickly become a weekly favourite. Open daily from 8:00am – 3:00pm, excluding Thanksgiving. 400 North Lemon Avenue, Sarasota. 941.906.1400. www.station400.com
The Serving Spoon
A well-known local eatery, The Serving Spoon serves breakfast all day, along with a casual lunch menu. Friday and Saturday evenings also feature dinner with Ray’s, when the restaurant is transformed into an elegant, evening dining environment featuring gourmet cuisine (reservations required for dinner). Enjoy good home-cooking in form of over-the-top omelets, whole-wheat pancakes, fruit and yogurt parfaits and mouthwatering muffins. Sit at the bar with it’s swivel chairs – you’ll feel like you’re back in the Ole’ 5 and Dime soda shop! Monday – Saturday 7:00am – 2:30pm. Sunday 8:00am – 1:30pm. 1825 South Osprey Avenue, Sarasota. 941.388.7235. www.theservingspoononline.com
