Sarasota is a city south of Tampa on Florida’s Gulf Coast that was once the winter home of the Ringling Brothers Circus.
Today, it hosts a number of cultural institutes, notably the Ringling Museum of Art, which showcases old masters and modern art. It’s also the gateway to miles of beaches with fine sand and shallow waters, such as Lido Beach and Siesta Key Beach.
Food, Fun, Shopping in Sarasota
I know that finding a great restaurant can be a challenge, especially when there are so many options out there.
Whether you're in the mood for a romantic dinner for two, a family-friendly meal, or a quick bite on the go, I've got you covered! This selection includes a range of cuisines, from classic American fare to exotic international dishes.
I believe that dining out should be an experience, not just a meal. That's why I've selected restaurants that not only offer delicious food, but also provide a welcoming atmosphere, excellent service, and a unique ambiance that will make your dining experience memorable.
So, take a look around and discover some of my favorite restaurants. I'm confident that you'll find something that will satisfy your taste buds and leave you feeling satisfied. If you see the Ace of Space, out and about, don't hesitate to say Hi!
Shore Restaurant is a popular dining destination located in Sarasota, Florida, near the waterfront. The restaurant offers a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere, with indoor and outdoor seating options. The outdoor seating area overlooks the water and provides a scenic view of Sarasota Bay.
The menu at Shore Restaurant features an array of seafood dishes, including fresh catches of the day, sushi, and oysters. In addition to seafood, the restaurant also offers a variety of other dishes, including salads, sandwiches, and steaks. The restaurant sources its ingredients locally and aims to provide high-quality, sustainable food. The restaurant also boasts a full bar with a diverse selection of wines, craft beers, and cocktails.
Overall, Shore Restaurant is a highly regarded dining destination in Sarasota, known for its fresh seafood, stunning views, and upscale ambiance.
The restaurant features a vintage industrial ambiance, with a menu that includes gourmet burgers, comfort food, craft beers, and signature cocktails.
The decor of the restaurant typically includes classic car memorabilia, such as vintage gas pumps, license plates, and black-and-white photographs of Ford's early automobile designs. The staff members wear attire reminiscent of the 1920s, when Ford's Model T revolutionized the auto industry.
The menu at Ford's Garage features a variety of burgers, including the "Model A" burger, which comes with cheddar cheese, applewood-smoked bacon, lettuce, tomato, and onion. Other popular menu items include the "Detroit Muscle" mac and cheese, the "Horsepower" chili, and the "Fuel Injector" chicken sandwich. Additionally, there are vegetarian options, salads, and appetizers like "Loaded Tater Tots" and "Garage Wings."
Overall, Ford's Garage aims to provide an immersive dining experience that celebrates the American car culture and Henry Ford's legacy while serving up delicious comfort food and drinks.
Owen's Fish Camp is a restaurant that serves seafood, particularly fish, and is likely to be decorated with nautical or beach-themed decor. The menu may feature a variety of seafood dishes, including grilled or fried fish, shrimp, and other shellfish, as well as sides like hush puppies, coleslaw, and french fries.
Florida. Founded in 1905, the Columbia Restaurant is one of the oldest and most famous restaurants in Florida, and it has a rich history and tradition that dates back over a century.
The Columbia Restaurant in St. Armands Circle features a beautiful and elegant Mediterranean-style building that boasts a charming and inviting atmosphere. The restaurant's interior is adorned with hand-painted tiles, ornate chandeliers, and vintage artwork that give it a warm and cozy ambiance.
The menu at the Columbia Restaurant in St. Armands Circle features an extensive selection of Spanish and Cuban dishes that are prepared with the freshest and highest quality ingredients. Some of the signature dishes on the menu include the 1905 Salad, which is a mix of lettuce, julienne ham, Swiss cheese, tomato, olives, and garlic dressing, and the Paella a la Valenciana, which is a classic Spanish rice dish with shrimp, scallops, mussels, and chicken.
In addition to the delicious food, the Columbia Restaurant in St. Armands Circle also offers a wide variety of drinks, including specialty cocktails, sangria, and an extensive wine list. The restaurant also features live music and flamenco shows on select nights, which adds to the festive and lively atmosphere.
A Lifestyle Worth Living
Sarasota beaches are generally considered to be beautiful, with powdery white sand and clear turquoise waters. Each beach offers unique features and amenities such as beach volleyball, picnic areas, playgrounds, and various water sports.
They are known for their cleanliness, wide shorelines, and accessibility, making them popular among tourists and locals alike.
Those in Sarasota are often praised for their stunning sunsets and natural beauty, with many offering opportunities for wildlife viewing and beachcombing.
- Siesta Beach: While most beaches are composed of pulverized coral, Siesta Beach is 99% pure quartz.
- Venice Beach: Venice Beach is also home to the Venice Fishing Pier, where visitors can fish, watch dolphins and sea birds, or simply enjoy the view of the ocean. Additionally, the beach offers easy access to the Venice Boardwalk, a scenic path that runs alongside the beach and offers stunning views of the Gulf.
- Caspersen Beach: One of the most unique beaches in Sarasota County is Caspersen Beach, due to the impressive number of shark teeth.
- Lido Beach: Lido Beach offers a variety of amenities, including beach volleyball courts, picnic areas, and playgrounds, making it popular among families and beachgoers of all ages. It's also conveniently located near St. Armands Circle, a shopping and dining destination with a variety of options.
- Turtle Beach Park: Turtle Beach Park is a scenic beach located on the southern end of Siesta Key in Sarasota. This beach is known for its beautiful views, calm waters, and a variety of activities, including fishing, kayaking, and snorkeling. It is also home to the largest public boat ramp in Sarasota County, making it a popular destination for boaters.
- Manasota Key: Manasota Key is a barrier island located south of Sarasota in Englewood, Florida. This secluded beach is known for its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere, making it a popular destination for those looking to escape the crowds.
St. Armands Circle offers a variety of options for shoppers. There are high-end luxury brands such as Tommy Bahama, Lilly Pulitzer, and Michael Kors, as well as more affordable options such as Chico's, J. Jill, and White House Black Market.
Visitors to St. Armands Circle can also find specialty fashion stores that offer unique and one-of-a-kind pieces. For example, The Met Fashion House offers a carefully curated collection of designer clothing, shoes, and accessories, while L. Boutique features chic and contemporary clothing from designers like Alice + Olivia, Diane von Furstenberg, and Tory Burch.
Overall, St. Armands Circle is a must-visit destination for fashion lovers in Sarasota, offering a diverse selection of shops and styles.
Sarasota, Florida is known for its vibrant arts scene, and there are many different types of entertaining arts to enjoy in the area. Here are a few examples:
Theater: Sarasota is home to several theater companies that produce a wide variety of plays and musicals throughout the year. The Asolo Repertory Theatre is a Tony Award-winning regional theater that presents contemporary plays, classics, and new works. The Florida Studio Theatre is another popular venue that features a range of productions, including comedies, dramas, and musicals.
Music: Sarasota has a thriving music scene, with several venues that host concerts and performances throughout the year. The Sarasota Orchestra is a professional symphony orchestra that presents classical concerts, pops concerts, and chamber music. The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall is another popular venue that hosts a variety of musical performances, from rock and pop concerts to Broadway shows and operas.
Dance: Dance is another popular art form in Sarasota, with several dance companies and schools in the area. The Sarasota Ballet is a world-class ballet company that performs both classical and contemporary works. The Sarasota Cuban Ballet School is another popular institution that offers training in classical ballet and Cuban dance styles.
Visual Arts: Sarasota is home to several museums and galleries that showcase visual arts. The Ringling Museum of Art is one of the most well-known institutions in the area, featuring a large collection of European art, as well as contemporary works. The Art Center Sarasota is another popular venue that hosts rotating exhibitions of local and national artists.
Siesta Key Village
Siesta Key Village is a charming beachside community located on the barrier island of Siesta Key, Florida. It is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, known for its beautiful beaches, eclectic shops, and lively nightlife.
The village is located just a short walk from Siesta Key's award-winning beaches, which are known for their soft, white sand and crystal-clear waters. These beaches attract visitors from all over the world and are a popular spot for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.
In addition to the beaches, Siesta Key Village is home to a wide range of shops and boutiques, selling everything from handmade jewelry to beachwear and souvenirs. There are also several art galleries and studios showcasing the work of local artists.
Get to Know the Area
When it comes to dining and entertainment, Siesta Key Village has something for everyone. The village is home to a variety of restaurants and cafes, offering everything from fresh seafood to international cuisine. At night, the village comes alive with live music, bars, and clubs, making it a popular spot for partygoers.
Despite its popularity, Siesta Key Village has managed to maintain a laid-back and relaxed atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a beachside escape. With its beautiful beaches, lively atmosphere, and friendly locals, Siesta Key Village is a must-visit destination in Florida.
Palmer Ranch
Palmer Ranch is a large master-planned community located in Sarasota, Florida. It covers an area of approximately 10,000 acres and features a variety of residential neighborhoods, shopping centers, recreational facilities, and nature preserves.
The community is situated in the southern part of Sarasota and is known for its beautiful landscape, which includes numerous lakes, ponds, and lush green spaces. There are over 20 different neighborhoods within Palmer Ranch, each with its own distinct character and architectural style.Your Way Home
Palmer Ranch is also home to several world-class golf courses, including the TPC Prestancia, which hosts professional golf tournaments. Other recreational facilities in the area include tennis courts, fitness centers, and bike trails.
In terms of shopping and dining, Palmer Ranch has several options, including the Sarasota Square Mall, which features a variety of popular stores and restaurants. The community also has a number of parks and nature preserves, such as the Legacy Trail, which offers miles of scenic trails for hiking and biking.Overall, Palmer Ranch is a vibrant and active community that offers residents a high quality of life and access to a wide range of amenities and activities.
Live well. Laugh often. Love your Lifestyle!
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