Fine Dining
Sarasota’s finest finds in fine dining
Those relocating from big cities accustomed to upscale dining and sophisticated steakhouse might anticipate that Sarasota is full of nothing but casual outdoor cafés and tiki bars, but Sarasota boasts an impressive fine dining scene full of international and local cuisine.
Shore Longboat Key
Situated on the beautiful Longboat Key, Shore Restaurant is an upscale oceanside eatery offering creative recipes in an al-fresco setting. Wind down after a long day spent indulging in sun and sand with a signature Shore cocktail and a decadent meal of the establishment's delicious Scallop Risotto or Key West shrimp.
Summer House Steak & Seafood Restaurant
Synonymous with the trendy Siesta Key, Summer House is a stylish local staple known for procuring fine-cut, sustainable steaks, seafood, and cocktails. Elegant yet relaxed, this steakhouse is home to the breathtaking Siesta Key Summer House fish tank. Museum-quality, the tank is more than 14 feet long and weighs over 10,000 pounds. It took more than 1,100 hours to design and build.
Marcello Ristorante Italiano
Owned by a native New Yorker who doubles as the chef, Marcello Ristorante is one of the best spots in town for delicious Italian fare. The vibe is similar to Rao's in New York City. Marcello Ristorante is a romantic, cozy, family-run eatery providing a menu stocked with authentic Italian dishes.
Sage SRQ
Located in downtown Sarasota, Sage SRQ is an eclectic restaurant with a seasonal and globally inspired menu that combines cooking styles from across the globe with fresh ingredients. Healthy and upscale, the goal of Sage SRQ is to create a unique dining experience for guests with bold flavors and innovative recipes helmed by award-winning chef Christopher Covelli.
Cafe Gabbiano
Conveniently located near Sarasota's most popular beach, Café Gabbiano brings a taste of classic Italy to Siesta Key. Sip one of the many wines from their lengthy list while catching up with friends for lunch. Steak, fish, fresh pasta, and other seasonal ingredients comprise this rustic eatery's sublime menu.
Boca
Another downtown staple, Boca focuses on farm-to-table cuisine paired with a robust list of wines. Trendy and chic, Boca puts taste and excellent service at the forefront to set it apart from other local restaurants. Meals are locally sourced to give back to the community and promote sustainable living.
Duval’s
Voted the best all-around restaurant in Sarasota, Duval's is the perfect lunch or dinner spot. Open 7 days a week, Duval's menu is filled with tasty local seafood dishes and excellent appetizers. With happy hour offered every day of the week, Duval's is the perfect place to visit after a long day at work to chat with friends and drink creative cocktails.
Selva Grill
Sarasota gives residents and visitors alike the chance to sample local and international specialties. Selva Grill is a creative Peruvian eatery with excellent cocktails and artistic ceviches, housed inside a trendy room decorated elegantly. An award-winning hotspot, everything on the menu is worth trying at this Latin American restaurant.
Jack Dusty
Housed inside the Ritz Carlton, Jack Dusty is a sophisticated and vibrant restaurant and lounge offering breathtaking waterfront views to those who choose to dine there. Inside this nautical-themed space, patrons can sample a variety of coastal cuisine. Make sure you try the calamari, gulf shrimp, and bay scallops!
Veronica Fish & Oyster
Want to eat succulent oysters and dine at the raw bar? Veronica Fish & Oyster Bar in Southside Village is a chic and funky restaurant that feels a little like a supper club. Visitors and locals alike love visiting here whenever they want a taste of New England fish and oyster bars.
Libby’s Neighborhood Brasserie
Open since 2008, Libby's Neighborhood Brasserie is a New American restaurant that showcases a wide array of seasonal recipes and ingredients. Inside a copper bar with stylish decor, Libby's offers outdoor dining and a mixture of full-dinner options and smaller plates.
Indigenous Restaurant
Indigenous Restaurant is a cozy dining establishment tucked away off the beaten path. Proudly serving American cuisine in warm, pastoral confines, you'll find a mix of offerings on the menu ranging from seafood to more casual fare.