Dining

In Florida, the best table is usually the one by the water, and these waterside views will have you feasting your eyes as you fill your stomachs.

Maybe your ideal beach vacation includes parasailing and jet skis, or maybe you like to relax and unwind with a great book by the water’s edge. Either way, one thing is clear: you are here to maximize your time near the water, and we are here to help.

Sarasota County is no slouch when it comes to this Spanish favorite. These restaurants are serving up some of the top tacos in town.

Several local joints are serving up a unique spin on the sweet treat, while others have taken the classic to a whole new level.

One of life’s greatest indulgences is dessert for breakfast, and few menu items are more fulfilling – or more simple – than the donut. From cake donuts to yeast donuts, bear claws to long Johns, we’ve sampled donuts from all over town and compiled a list of our very favorites.

Pack a five star meal for an unforgettable al fresco experience using these helpful hints from a lifelong Sarasota County resident. 

Sarasota County is a great place to get outdoors. Whether it’s glistening sandy beaches, luscious gardens, picturesque rivers or birding and wildlife areas, you can always find a serene spot. Bundle one of these four themed picnic baskets with items from a few choice eateries and locally owned grocery stores in town.

Special diet? Make your next trip stress free by choosing one of these local restaurants serving up delicious and creative animal-free meals

Where there's a beach, there better be ice cream, and you'll never be far from a frozen treat with these delicious, locally-owned shops around Sarasota County

There’s nothing like a cool treat on a warm day, and some ice cream is the perfect way to finish a little fun in the sun in Sarasota County. When the urge for a scoop (or two) strikes, here are some good places for a sweet treat that the whole family will enjoy.

Orange Octopus

You won't have to wait long for a memorable meal next trip thanks to these local spots near the Sarasota Bradenton International Airport

North Tamiami Trail in Sarasota is loaded with local history and several cultural and educational sites. From The Ringling to the historic New College of Florida campus, the North Sarasota span of Highway 41 (a.k.a. Tamiami Trail) can keep you busy for a while. Here’s the scoop on four great restaurants to enjoy on Sarasota’s North Tamiami Trail when you’re ready to grab a bite (or drink).

Mark your calendars for Sarasota’s Virtual Eat Local Week this March featuring fun & informative tours, trivia, and other activities that highlight the cycle of our food system and our region's local food network.

It's not every day you find an organization highlighting local food, farms, and a community’s efforts to curb food waste, but that’s just what’s happening in the Sarasota County area. 

What’s it all about?

Check out this list of new restaurants around the destination and where to find them, so you can keep shaking up your dining routine

Circo SRQ

This funky new taco & bourbon joint offers artisan tacos ranging from Ahi Poke to Edamame Falafel. Definitely get a house margarita with your choice of salt and end the evening with homemade churros with Mexican chocolate fondue.