Top 10 Best Restaurants In Sarasota

Looking for a great meal in Sarasota, Florida? Look no further than these top 10 restaurants, which have been rated highly by diners from all over.

Welcome to Sarasota, an enchanting enclave perched on the shimmering shores of Florida’s Suncoast. This city is not just a haven for beachgoers and art aficionados; it’s also a burgeoning hotspot for gastronomes. Embark with us on a gastronomic tour of the Top 10 Best Restaurants in Sarasota, where a medley of culinary establishments awaits to tantalize your taste buds. From the freshest catches of the sea to innovative global cuisine, and time-honored American fare, Sarasota's dining scene is a mosaic of flavors waiting to be savored.

Each spot on our list is a culinary star in its own right, offering not only a feast for the palate but also an ambiance that encapsulates the essence of Sarasota's laid-back luxury. Prepare for a series of unforgettable meals that epitomize the artistry and flair of the city's best chefs.

Now, let's set off on this delicious journey and uncover the restaurants that are the cornerstone of Sarasota's delectable dining landscape, presented to you in no particular order.

Yoder’s Restaurant & Amish Village

Yoder's Restaurant & Amish Village is a cornerstone of comfort food in Sarasota, echoing the simplicity and richness of Amish culinary tradition. This establishment stands as a tribute to the hearty, homestyle cooking that has made Amish cuisine beloved across America. From their renowned breakfast spread that kicks off at dawn to a dinner menu that features the staples of American and Dutch fare, Yoder's is a culinary anchor for those seeking the nostalgia of a home-cooked meal​.

Stepping into Yoder's is like a warm embrace from a beloved relative, with an atmosphere that's as comforting as its food. Famous for their pies and homemade desserts, Yoder's ensures that every meal is capped off with a touch of sweetness, offering a variety of pies that cater to seasonal tastes and preferences. It's not just about dining here; it's about experiencing a slice of the Amish way of life, from their deli market with grab-and-go meals to their inviting gift shop, all encapsulating the charm of Sarasota's local culture​.

Situated at 3434 Bahia Vista St., Yoder's isn't just a stop; it's a destination in itself, a place where every visit feels like a festive gathering, and the service reflects the community's values. Honored with the Travelers' Choice 2023 accolade, this eatery doesn't just serve food; it offers an experience steeped in the generosity and spirit of the Amish community, complemented by a menu that caters to a variety of dietary needs including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options​.

Walt’s Fish Market Restaurant

Walt's Fish Market Restaurant in Sarasota is a local landmark that epitomizes the essence of coastal dining in Florida. As a family-owned establishment, Walt's carries the legacy of fresh, locally-sourced seafood that's served amidst a lively bar scene, perfect for both special occasions and casual gatherings. The menu at Walt's, featuring American seafood classics, caters to a variety of preferences with vegetarian and gluten-free options available, ensuring that everyone leaves satisfied​.

With its prime location at 4144 S Tamiami Trl, Walt's Fish Market boasts a robust selection of dishes, including the highly praised hand-breaded panko fried shrimp and fish and chips, a testament to their dedication to quality and flavor​1​. Open for lunch, dinner, and late-night drinks, the restaurant also offers amenities such as outdoor seating, live music, and a full bar, encapsulating the vibrant spirit of Sarasota's dining scene​.

At Walt's, every meal is an experience, with a bustling atmosphere and offerings that reflect the bounty of the sea. It's a true culinary destination where the traditions of American seafood are served with a modern flair, making it an indispensable stop in Sarasota's culinary tour​.

Phillippi Creek Village Restaurant & Oyster Bar

Phillippi Creek Village Restaurant & Oyster Bar is a quintessential Sarasota gem that offers a true taste of Florida. With a diverse menu that emphasizes American seafood classics, this waterside eatery is renowned for its fresh oysters and a variety of seafood platters that promise a palate-pleasing experience. The restaurant, located at 5353 Tamiami Trl, welcomes diners with an array of options that cater to different dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices​.

The laid-back yet vibrant atmosphere of Phillippi Creek sets the stage for a relaxed dining experience, whether you're there for lunch, dinner, or a late-night feast. The waterfront view adds to the restaurant's allure, offering a scenic backdrop to a meal consisting of favorites like parsley potatoes, hush puppies, and the stuffed flounder that locals rave about.

This spot is more than just an oyster bar; it's a slice of Sarasota's culinary culture, a place where the freshness of the sea meets the warmth of Southern hospitality. It's an inviting retreat for those seeking both the simplicity of a seafood shack and the full-flavored richness of a Sarasota dining landmark​.

The Old Salty Dog

Perched along the serene waters of City Island, Sarasota, The Old Salty Dog is a beloved local haunt that captures the essence of coastal Florida. It's a place where the views are as splendid as the food, offering sweeping vistas of New Pass and Longboat Key Bridge. The open-air seating beckons diners to relax in the sunshine while enjoying a varied menu that includes the famed Fully Loaded Salty Dog hot dog, a gastronomic delight that has earned its fame on "Man vs Food."

The Old Salty Dog's menu is a testament to the region's rich seafood tradition, with fresh catches like grouper and mahi-mahi featured prominently. The casual yet satisfying fare is complemented by a friendly, attentive staff and a selection of refreshing drinks to enhance the laid-back dining experience.

This spot isn't just about savoring a meal; it's about savoring the moment. Whether it's the live music, the pet-friendly policy, or simply the joy of dining by the water's edge, The Old Salty Dog ensures every visit is a memorable one.

Fun Fact: Embracing its festive spirit, The Old Salty Dog often hosts events that showcase the best of Sarasota's vibrant local scene, making every visit uniquely enjoyable.

Owen’s Fish Camp

Nestled in the heart of Burns Court in Downtown Sarasota, Owen's Fish Camp is a delightful nod to the rustic charm of old Florida. With the bay's freshest catch delivered daily, the menu at Owen's Fish Camp is a testament to Southern seafood excellence. The ambiance, set beneath a sprawling Banyan tree gifted by Thomas Edison, is as rich in history as it is in Southern hospitality.

The experience of dining here is steeped in tradition, with dishes that blend local seafood favorites with classic Southern cuisine. Complemented by a thoughtful selection of craft beers and wines, each meal is an invitation to indulge in the best of Florida's coastal offerings. The friendly staff echoes the restaurant's commitment to exceptional service, ensuring every visit is memorable.

From the tire swing in the back to the live bluegrass music that often fills the air, Owen's Fish Camp offers an atmosphere that is both casual and captivating. It's a place where the warmth of the service matches the Southern sun and where the seafood is as authentic as the Southern classics that accompany it​.

Fun Fact: The lore of Owen's Fish Camp is as savory as its meals. The towering Banyan out front stands as a historical landmark, while the live music and tire swing add a playful touch, reflecting the relaxed and joyous spirit of Sarasota.

Columbia Restaurant

A visit to the Columbia Restaurant in St. Armands Circle is a foray into the rich tapestry of Spanish and Cuban culinary excellence, right in the heart of Sarasota. As the oldest operating restaurant in the area, Columbia has been heralded as one of Florida's top restaurants since 1967, a testament to its enduring charm and gastronomic prowess.

Just a short stroll from the sandy shores of Lido Beach, the Columbia Restaurant offers a dining experience that is both luxurious and intimate. Whether you opt to dine in the sun-kissed patio or within the Mediterranean-style interiors, the ambiance transports you to a world where each meal is a celebration of history and heritage.

The restaurant's award-winning cuisine is crafted with the freshest local ingredients, paying homage to the timeless flavors of Spain and Cuba. A meal here might begin with a selection of tapas, followed by the signature '1905' Salad, prepared tableside with an air of theatrical flair. The entrées continue to delight with options like the succulent Pollo Riojana, the robust flavors of Paella "a la Valenciana," and the delicate sweetness of Flan for dessert.

The Columbia Restaurant is not just a meal; it's an experience that encapsulates the soul of Sarasota's culinary scene, offering a slice of history with every bite. It's a place where each visit feels like a tribute to times past and a celebration of the moments we cherish.

Fun Fact: The Columbia Restaurant has been a family-owned gem since its inception, providing not just meals, but a venue where generations of patrons have made lasting memories.

Circo

Circo brings a burst of culinary vivacity to Sarasota's dining scene, a lively restaurant that fuses Mexican zest with American flair. It's a place where the culture of taco slinging meets the artistry of cocktail crafting, offering a menu that's as playful as it is refined. With a selection of rare bourbons and mezcals, alongside fun cocktails and classic margaritas, Circo turns every meal into a fiesta.

The atmosphere at Circo is described as both lively and comfortable, making it an excellent spot for both indoor and outdoor dining. The fresh, high-quality meals are matched by exceptional service, with knowledgeable servers like Meghan making sure every part of your meal is enjoyable.

The menu's stars are the inventive tacos, with Mongolian Beef and Thai Shrimp tacos being praised by patrons. Taco Tuesday offers a great deal to taste the variety, with favorites like the Birria Beef tacos creating returning customers. And for a sweet end to your meal, the S’mores Churros come highly recommended.

Located conveniently with ample free parking, Circo is a testament to the city's vibrant food culture. It's a circus of flavors where the food is fresh, the service is awesome, and the experience is anything but ordinary​.

Fun Fact: Circo's charm goes beyond its menu; it's a place where the community comes together to enjoy great tunes, cold cervezas, and the best queso in Sarasota.

Connor’s Steak & Seafood

Connors Steak & Seafood stands as a testament to timeless American dining in Sarasota, boasting a menu that celebrates both fresh seafood and premium aged steaks. This esteemed eatery, highly ranked among local restaurants, offers an ambiance of refined comfort, perfect for a sumptuous evening out or a high-powered business lunch.

Diners can expect to indulge in well-prepared favorites like the Espresso Ribeye or the succulent Connors Prime Rib. Seafood lovers are treated to the freshest selections, with the Grouper and Sea Bass being particular highlights, all cooked to perfection. With a dedication to service that matches their culinary excellence, Connors promises a dining experience that beckons you back time and again.

Whether you're seated in the well-appointed dining room or enjoying the bar's vibrant atmosphere, the restaurant ensures every meal is accompanied by a dash of Sarasota's signature sophistication.

Fun Fact: Connors Steak & Seafood has carved out a niche in Sarasota's competitive dining scene, not just for their steaks, but for their commitment to quality across the menu—from gourmet salads to their handcrafted pastas​.

Brick’s Smoked meats

Nestled in downtown Sarasota, Brick's Smoked Meats presents a culinary haven where Texas 'cue meets Florida flair. The impressive fire-engine red smoker, visible from their ground-level location, is a beacon for barbecue aficionados seeking a smoky feast. Their expansive dining room and bar, with a capacity to comfortably host large gatherings, set the stage for a communal and lively dining experience.

Their bacon burnt ends are a standout, with their melt-in-your-mouth texture and sweet barbecue glaze creating a symphony of savory notes. While the wings may not boast the smokiness some desire, they are still a solid beginning to the smorgasbord of flavors that follow. The brisket may play a second fiddle to other meats, with some noting it as average, but the tender, well-flavored ribs and the mouth-watering collard greens cooked with bacon more than compensate.

Even sides like the roasted brussels sprouts become stars in their own right, roasted to perfection, and providing a refreshing contrast to the rich meats. Brick's Smoked Meats proves to be a delightful surprise, showcasing the depth of their menu and the quality of barbecue that one might not expect in Sarasota​.

Fun Fact: Brick's Smoked Meats not only excels in their barbecue offerings but also presents a selection of beers perfectly paired with their smoked delicacies, ensuring that each bite is complemented by a sip of curated brews.

Duval’s Fresh. Local. Seafood.

Duval's in Sarasota weaves a narrative of transformation and culinary finesse, where the local catch meets global flavors in a dance of gastronomic delight. The recent makeover of this establishment has not only enhanced its aesthetic appeal but has also fine-tuned its menu to spotlight the bounty of the sea, while still catering to those who favor turf over surf.

The eclectic menu tempts with items like the Smoked Fish Dip and the Signature Salad, a colorful mélange that promises freshness in every bite. For those seeking comfort food with a twist, the Grilled Cheese and Candied Pepper Bacon Sliders are a revelation, especially when paired with the rich, creamy tomato bleu cheese soup.

Duval's not only prides itself on its cuisine but also on an ambiance that reflects the new Sarasota—a blend of casual sophistication and vibrant culinary artistry. Attentive service, a full bar, and a smart wine list round out the experience, making Duval's not just a meal but a destination.

Fun Fact: With its strategic downtown location and revamped look, Duval's is quickly becoming a contender for Sarasota's 'Comeback Restaurant of the Year', turning heads and tantalizing taste buds with its innovative approach to fresh, local seafood​.

As we conclude our culinary tour of Sarasota, each restaurant we've explored offers a unique glimpse into the city's diverse dining landscape. From the sun-kissed decks of The Old Salty Dog to the historic charm of Columbia Restaurant, the flavors of Sarasota are as varied as its beautiful coastline. Whether you seek the smoky goodness of Brick's Smoked Meats or the southern hospitality at Owen's Fish Camp, there is a dish and a memory waiting to be savored. These top 10 restaurants are not just places to eat; they are destinations that tell the story of Sarasota, one plate at a time. So, here's to delicious discoveries and dining experiences that linger long after the last bite. Bon appétit!

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