Why Sarasota is One of Florida's Best Food Cities

Sarasota County's dining scene is a vibrant scene of cultural heritage, diversity and a deep appreciation for fresh, local ingredients. From the sun-kissed village of Siesta Key to the charming downtown streets of Venice, the region offers culinary experiences for both the avid foodie and casual diner.

Home to Award-Winning Chefs

Cafe Gabbiano Chef preparing daily homemade pasta

Sarasota’s culinary scene continues to earn applause on the statewide and national stage, boasting a collection of award-winning restaurants and celebrated chefs. 

From Zagat-rated dining rooms to James Beard Award-winning and nominated culinary talents, the region is no stranger to acclaim. Local chefs frequently make headlines in prestigious food publications—locally, regionally and nationally—earning recognition for their creativity, use of fresh Florida ingredients and commitment to excellence. 

Chefs here come from all over the state, the country and the world—landing here on this special slice of paradise to contribute to our ever-evolving foodie cities.

Culinary Range

Donwhome dining out back at Owen's Fish Camp

Sarasota’s dining scene serves up flavor in every form—whether you’re barefoot and snacking on a lobster roll at a beachside pavilion or dressed to the nines for white-tablecloth fine dining. This Gulf Coast foodie haven is home to an impressive spectrum of cuisines and ambiance, from buzzing hotel bars and award-winning hot spots to beloved Amish eateries serving hearty comfort food and scratch-made pies. 

Globally inspired menus and techniques meet locally sourced ingredients and family-led recipes at trendy cafes, French bakeries, pizza parlors, waterfront restaurants, seafood shacks, upscale steakhouses, farmers markets and everything in between. Whether you’re craving casual fish tacos with Gulf views or a five-course tasting menu in an intimate bistro, Sarasota’s rich culinary landscape has a plate for every palate.

But what about to wash it all down? Take a load off and let a bartender mix you up a craft cocktail at one of our laid-back tiki bars, snazzy speakeasies or at our very own rum distillery. Coffee aficionados will find coffee shops brewing artisan blends, while oenophiles and craft drink lovers can sip their way through cozy wine bars and microbreweries. 
 

Food & Wine Festivals

The Ringling Courtyard, where Forks & Corks takes center stage

• Forks & Corks Food and Wine Festival is a multi-day annual event in January, presented by the Sarasota-Manatee Originals, a community of over 60 locally owned, independent restaurants. The festival includes interactive food and wine seminars at various area venues and a Grand Tasting at The Ringling Museum courtyard. 
• The Originals also hosts an end-of-year event in December at The Bay Park, dubbed Taste of The Bay. The free food festival showcases specialty dishes from local restaurants, with food and drink tickets available to taste your chosen table setups while you enjoy the beautiful bayfront park surroundings. 
• For a weekend of food truck delights and live music, head to Englewood Food Truck Rally & Music Festival, taking place every March at Pioneer Park. This free event features a diverse lineup of food trucks of just about every type of cuisine. Enjoy live performances from talented musicians and explore a marketplace filled with arts and specialty products.
• Eat Local Week, organized by Community Harvest SRQ, features a series of events in October focused on homegrown food and farming. Enjoy farm and garden tours, farm-to-fork dinners, workshops, educational programs, community discussions and hands-on activities. By the end of the week, you'll want to make more conscious food choices and support local agriculture in your day-to-day diet.
• The annual Venice Italian Feast & Carnival invites pizza and pasta lovers to experience the rich traditions of Italian culture at the Venice Airport Festival Grounds every February. Enjoy authentic cuisine, live music, carnival rides and family-friendly activities that'll work up an appetite. 
• Kick off the new year with a flavorful celebration at the Sarasota Seafood & Music Festival. This annual event at the Sarasota Fairgrounds combines coastal bites and freshly prepared seafood—all cooked onsite, plus live music and artistry all weekend long.
• Also at the Fairgrounds, experience the vibrant rhythms and flavors of the islands at the Sarasota Reggae & Food Festival in March. This free, family-friendly event celebrates reggae music and delicious dishes—from jerk chicken and tropical smoothies to seafood and sweet treats.
   

Restaurant Week

Dining family style at Café on St. Armands

Each year, Sarasota County celebrates its famed Savor Sarasota Restaurant Week during the first two weeks of June, where visitors can experience culinary excellence from dozens of participating restaurants without breaking the bank. 

These specially curated menus allow you to sample a variety of dishes and flavors while taking advantage of some great deals. Whether you're craving classic comfort food, international cuisine or contemporary creations, Savor Sarasota has something to satisfy every palate and preference.

And this year marks its 20th anniversary celebration – Get social with #SavorSarasota and don't miss out!