Sarasota's culinary scene is as diverse and sophisticated as the city itself. Florida's "Cultural Coast" attracts serious chefs and discerning diners, resulting in a restaurant landscape that punches well above what you'd expect from a mid-sized Florida city. From TripAdvisor award-winning Amish comfort food to waterfront oyster bars and authentic Spanish cuisine dating back to 1967, Sarasota delivers unforgettable dining experiences across every price point.
The city offers distinct dining districts: upscale St. Armands Circle for special occasions, the artsy Burns Court neighborhood for unique atmosphere, and a revitalized downtown Main Street corridor with something for everyone.
Whether you're celebrating on St. Armands Circle, discovering a hidden gem under a Banyan tree in Burns Court, or grabbing lunch after a day on Siesta Key Beach, these ten locally-vetted restaurants showcase the best Sarasota dining.
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Quick Navigation: Comfort Food | Seafood | BBQ | Spanish | Tips
1. Yoder's Restaurant & Amish Village
Yoder's award-winning Amish comfort food has drawn crowds to Bahia Vista since 1975
Travelers' Choice 2023 award winner, Yoder's is famous for fried chicken that's crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. But the real stars are the homemade pies and desserts that keep locals and visitors coming back year after year. The pie case alone is worth the trip — expect two dozen varieties on any given day, from peanut butter cream to shoofly pie made from a traditional Pennsylvania Dutch recipe.
The dining room is no-frills and the service is fast, which is a good thing because the line often stretches out the door during peak season. Regulars know to arrive before 11:30 a.m. to beat the lunch rush. Beyond the fried chicken, the meatloaf, pot roast, and chicken pot pie are all made-from-scratch comfort food staples. The attached Amish Village gift shop sells jams, butters, and baked goods if you want to bring a taste of Yoder's home with you.
- Address: 3434 Bahia Vista St, Sarasota, FL 34239
- Phone: (941) 955-7771
- Cuisine: Amish Comfort Food
- Price range: $$
- Best for: Families, comfort food lovers
- Don't miss: Fried chicken, homemade pies
- Dietary options: Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free available
- Website: yodersrestaurant.com
2. Walt's Fish Market Restaurant
Walt's family-owned fish market serves the freshest catch on the Tamiami Trail
Family-owned and committed to fresh, locally-sourced seafood. The hand-breaded panko fried shrimp and fish & chips are local legends. Outdoor seating and live music make this more than just a meal — it's where Sarasota locals go when they want honest seafood without the tourist markup.
What sets Walt's apart is the attached fish market, where you can see exactly what came off the boats that morning. The kitchen works with the same inventory, so freshness is never in question. The New England clam chowder wins over even die-hard Northerners, and the grouper sandwich — blackened or fried — is one of the best on the Gulf Coast. Grab a seat on the patio on a Friday or Saturday night when live music adds to the laid-back vibe.
- Address: 4144 S Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34231
- Phone: (941) 921-4605
- Cuisine: Seafood
- Price range: $$
- Best for: Seafood lovers, casual dining
- Don't miss: Panko fried shrimp, fish & chips
- Features: Full bar, live music, outdoor seating
- Website: waltsfishmarketrestaurant.com
3. Phillippi Creek Village Restaurant & Oyster Bar
Phillippi Creek serves fresh oysters with waterfront views
Waterfront dining meets fresh oysters at this Sarasota institution. The stuffed flounder paired with parsley potatoes and hush puppies is a must-try combination that locals swear by.
- Address: 5353 S Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34231
- Phone: (941) 925-4444
- Cuisine: Seafood, Oyster Bar
- Price range: $$$
- Best for: Waterfront dining, oyster lovers
- Don't miss: Stuffed flounder, fresh oysters
- Setting: Waterfront deck with creek views
- Website: creekseafood.com
4. The Old Salty Dog
The Old Salty Dog offers waterfront views and was featured on Man vs Food
Home of the "Fully Loaded Salty Dog" hot dog featured on Man vs Food. The open-air seating offers views of New Pass and Longboat Key Bridge, and yes, it's pet-friendly.
- Address: 5023 Ocean Blvd, Sarasota, FL 34242
- Phone: (941) 349-0158
- Cuisine: American, Hot Dogs
- Price range: $$
- Best for: Casual dining, dog owners, tourists
- Don't miss: Fully Loaded Salty Dog, fish tacos
- Features: Live music, waterfront views, pet-friendly
- Website: theoldsaltydog.com
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5. Owen's Fish Camp
Owen's Fish Camp is nestled under a historic Banyan tree in Burns Court
Nestled under a historic Banyan tree in Burns Court, Owen's brings Southern seafood traditions to downtown Sarasota. Fresh daily catches, craft beer, and bluegrass music create an atmosphere unlike anywhere else.
Don't miss the tire swing.
- Address: 516 Burns Ct, Sarasota, FL 34236
- Phone: (941) 951-6936
- Cuisine: Southern Seafood
- Price range: $$$
- Best for: Date nights, unique atmosphere
- Don't miss: Daily catch specials, shrimp and grits
- Setting: Under historic Banyan tree with tire swing
- Website: owensfishcamp.com
6. Columbia Restaurant
Columbia Restaurant has served Spanish cuisine on St. Armands since 1967
The oldest operating restaurant in the area, Columbia has been serving Spanish and Cuban cuisine since 1967. The tableside-prepared "1905" Salad is legendary, while the Pollo Riojana and Paella "a la Valenciana" transport you to the Mediterranean.
- Address: 411 St Armands Cir, Sarasota, FL 34236
- Phone: (941) 388-3987
- Cuisine: Spanish, Cuban
- Price range: $$$
- Best for: Special occasions, St. Armands shopping
- Don't miss: 1905 Salad (prepared tableside), Paella
- Setting: Mediterranean interior with elegant patio
- Website: columbiarestaurant.com
7. Circo
Circo's creative Mexican menu features Mongolian Beef tacos and rare mezcals
Creative Mexican cuisine with a twist. Mongolian Beef tacos and Thai Shrimp tacos share the menu with rare bourbons and mezcals. End with S'mores Churros for the perfect finish.
The space itself matches the playful energy of the menu — colorful murals, an open kitchen, and a bar program that goes well beyond the standard margarita. Circo's mezcal collection is one of the most extensive in Southwest Florida, and the bartenders know how to pair a smoky pour with whatever you're eating. Taco Tuesdays pack the house with half-price tacos, so arrive early or expect a wait. Free parking in the lot behind the restaurant is a rare downtown perk that regulars appreciate.
- Address: 1435 2nd St, Sarasota, FL 34236
- Phone: (941) 365-2222
- Cuisine: Creative Mexican
- Price range: $$
- Best for: Taco lovers, craft cocktail fans
- Don't miss: Mongolian Beef tacos, S'mores Churros
- Special: Taco Tuesday deals, free parking
- Website: circosrq.com
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8. Connor's Steak & Seafood
Connor's Espresso Ribeye is a signature that draws steak lovers from across the Gulf Coast
Premium aged steaks including Espresso Ribeye and Prime Rib share the spotlight with fresh seafood like Grouper and Sea Bass. The refined casual ambiance suits business dinners and special occasions alike.
The Espresso Ribeye is the dish that put Connor's on the map — a thick-cut, coffee-crusted steak with a savory bark that steak purists travel across the Gulf Coast to try. The wine list is thoughtfully curated to complement the menu without overwhelming you with choices, and the staff is trained to guide pairings. The dining room is upscale without being stuffy: think dark wood, warm lighting, and tables spaced far enough apart for actual conversation. Make a reservation, especially on Friday and Saturday nights during season.
- Address: 3501 S Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34239
- Phone: (941) 260-3232
- Cuisine: Steakhouse, Seafood
- Price range: $$$$
- Best for: Business dinners, special occasions
- Don't miss: Espresso Ribeye, Chilean Sea Bass
- Reservations: Recommended
- Website: connorsrestaurant.com
9. Brick's Smoked Meats
Brick's fire-engine red smoker turns out Texas-style barbecue in downtown Sarasota
Texas-style barbecue anchored by a visible fire-engine red smoker. The bacon burnt ends are melt-in-your-mouth perfection with a sweet barbecue glaze. The ribs and bacon-cooked collard greens don't disappoint either.
Owner Brick Brickner learned his craft in Texas before bringing real low-and-slow barbecue to Sarasota's State Street. Everything is smoked on-site daily, and when it's gone, it's gone — so don't show up at 7 p.m. expecting a full menu. The brisket develops a deep smoke ring after 14 hours over post oak, and the house-made sauces range from a tangy Carolina vinegar to a thick Kansas City-style sweet glaze. Sides are equally serious: the mac and cheese has a smoked gouda base, and the collard greens are cooked with house-smoked bacon. It's counter service and casual, so come as you are.
- Address: 1528 State St, Sarasota, FL 34236
- Phone: (941) 993-1435
- Cuisine: Texas BBQ
- Price range: $$
- Best for: BBQ lovers, meat enthusiasts
- Don't miss: Bacon burnt ends, ribs, collard greens
- Setting: Casual with visible smoker
- Website: brickssmokedmeats.com
10. Duval's Fresh. Local. Seafood.
Duval's recently renovated Main Street location showcases fresh Gulf seafood with global influences
Recently renovated with a fresh aesthetic, Duval's specializes in seafood with global influences. The Smoked Fish Dip and Grilled Chilean Sea Bass showcase what fresh and local really means.
The renovation brought a brighter, more modern look to the Main Street space, but the kitchen kept its focus on sourcing from Gulf fishermen and local farms. The menu rotates with the season — expect stone crab claws in winter and soft-shell crab in spring. The curated wine list leans toward crisp whites and light reds that pair well with seafood, and the craft cocktail menu includes a solid smoked old fashioned. Regulars grab seats at the bar to watch the kitchen work, and the patio tables along Main Street are prime real estate on a warm Sarasota evening.
- Address: 1435 Main St, Sarasota, FL 34236
- Phone: (941) 312-4001
- Cuisine: Seafood
- Price range: $$$
- Best for: Seafood lovers, wine enthusiasts
- Don't miss: Smoked Fish Dip, Chilean Sea Bass
- Features: Full bar, curated wine selection
- Website: duvalsfreshlocalseafood.com
Tips for Dining in Sarasota
Best Dining Districts
St. Armands Circle: The iconic circular shopping and dining district with upscale options. Columbia Restaurant anchors this area. Ideal for combining dinner with shopping at boutiques. Reservations recommended at most spots.
Downtown Main Street: The revitalized downtown corridor with diverse options from casual to upscale. Brick's Smoked Meats, Duval's, and several other quality spots are walkable from parking.
Burns Court: Sarasota's artsy neighborhood home to Owen's Fish Camp under the famous Banyan tree. Unique atmosphere with galleries and small shops. Worth the detour for the experience alone.
Siesta Key Village: Beach-casual spots with island vibes. Good for post-beach dining, though quality varies—stick to local recommendations.
Reservation Strategy
- Always reserve: Columbia Restaurant, Connor's, Owen's Fish Camp
- Call ahead: Phillippi Creek for waterfront seating
- Walk-in friendly: Yoder's, Brick's, Walt's Fish Market
Parking in Sarasota
St. Armands: Plentiful free parking throughout the circle. Easy.
Downtown: Street parking and garages available but can be tight during events and evening hours. Arrive early or use paid garages.
Burns Court: Street parking in neighborhood—usually available.
When to Visit
Peak season runs December through April with longer waits and higher prices. Summer brings better availability and locals-focused service. Weekday dining is noticeably easier than weekends during any season.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best restaurant for a special occasion in Sarasota?
Columbia Restaurant on St. Armands Circle offers an elegant setting with tableside-prepared salads and authentic Spanish cuisine since 1967. Connor's delivers upscale steakhouse dining. For a memorable unique atmosphere, Owen's Fish Camp under the historic Banyan tree in Burns Court creates an experience unlike anywhere else.
Where can I find the best seafood in Sarasota?
Phillippi Creek for waterfront oysters and classic preparations. Walt's Fish Market for casual excellence with live music. Owen's Fish Camp for Southern seafood traditions. Duval's for refined, globally-influenced preparations.
Which restaurants have the best views in Sarasota?
The Old Salty Dog overlooks New Pass with open-air seating. Phillippi Creek sits directly on the water with deck dining. St. Armands Circle restaurants offer people-watching over cocktails—a different kind of view, but equally entertaining.
Are there good vegetarian options in Sarasota?
Yoder's explicitly offers vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options—unusual for an Amish restaurant. Most upscale spots like Connor's and Duval's accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice. Circo's creative Mexican menu has several vegetarian options.
What's unique about Sarasota's food scene?
Sarasota's cultural sophistication—home to the Ringling Museum, Sarasota Opera, and thriving arts scene—extends to its restaurants. You'll find Amish comfort food, authentic Spanish tapas, Texas-style BBQ, Southern seafood traditions, and fresh Gulf catches all within a few miles. The quality rivals much larger cities.
What's the best restaurant for brunch in Sarasota?
Yoder's legendary breakfast items and homemade pies make it a brunch favorite. The Old Salty Dog offers casual waterfront brunch. Circo has creative brunch options downtown. For a complete guide, see our best brunch spots in Sarasota.
Is St. Armands Circle worth visiting for dinner?
Yes. The circular shopping district offers upscale dining (Columbia Restaurant being the anchor), boutique shopping, and a pleasant walking atmosphere. It's ideal for combining dinner with an evening stroll through the shops. Parking is easy.
How does Sarasota compare to Naples for dining?
Both offer excellent dining scenes. Naples trends more upscale and expensive overall. Sarasota has more variety across price points and a stronger arts/cultural influence on its food scene. Both are worth exploring for serious foodies.
More Sarasota & SWFL Guides
Looking for more dining and activities in the area? Check out these guides:
- Best Brunch in Sarasota — Weekend brunch spots and bottomless mimosas
- Best Beaches in Sarasota — Siesta Key, Lido, and more
- Retiring to Sarasota Guide — Everything about living in Sarasota
- 10 Best Waterfront Restaurants in SWFL — Stunning water views
- Best Restaurants in Venice — More dining options south of Sarasota
Have a favorite Sarasota restaurant we missed? Let us know and we'll check it out!
