Dining

Part laidback beach paradise, and part eclectic arts and culture destination: Sarasota is a fun and welcoming destination for LGBTQ travelers, couples, and families. Explore our guide to our diverse community—and be our guest!

Sarasota and Venice have some great waterfront dining restaurants! Check out a list of our favorite places to eat on the water.

When the sunbathing hours draw to a sunset close, Sarasota County diners head to the bevy of beachfront or bayfront restaurants nearby for a sip and some sustenance. From the quiet shores of Longboat Key and the popular Lido Key Beach to the picturesque Sarasota Bayfront and Venice Beach Pier overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, there is no shortage of places to cheers to the sights of Sarasota County.

With a variety of local cafes and craft roasteries, it's up to you to pick your favorite caffeine fix in Sarasota!

Although the aroma of freshly brewed coffee speaks a universal language that is recognizable to most people, true coffee connoisseurs know that the difference between a good cup of coffee and a great cup of coffee is a vast one. Luckily for java fiends, Sarasota has a variety of independent establishments—from cozy, casual coffee shops and local cafes to sophisticated espresso bars.

Introduce yourself to the freshest and healthiest dining options in Sarasota County.

In Sarasota, a locale geographically blessed with year-round sunshine that nurtures farm food, healthy eating seems to simply make sense. As the city of Sarasota has the highest concentration of Zagat-rated restaurants in Florida, you'll have no problem finding a variety of healthy places to eat dinner, dessert, and breakfast – in whatever order you so choose.

South Sarasota County is rich with hidden treasures and an Old Florida feel, and here we share the top 45 things to do.

You know all about the No. 1 beach in the country, Siesta Key Beach, and the art and culture found in downtown Sarasota, but what about the lesser-known southern part of Sarasota County?

The city of Sarasota may be smaller than other metropolitan destinations, but there is plenty to do in this city.

Enjoy the bustle of Main Street, the quaint bungalows of the historic downtown area, and the antique stores of Burns Court.

Venice, Florida, has beautiful beaches, lots of parks and green space, a full calendar of annual events, and a healthy arts and restaurant scene. Learn more about things to do in the Gulf Coast town.

Venice has beautiful beaches, lots of parks and green space, a full calendar of annual events, and a healthy arts and restaurant scene. 

The greater Sarasota area attracts visitors from all over the world who come to enjoy the white beaches, cultural amenities, and great restaurants. Within the city limits of Sarasota is Pinecraft, a small working neighborhood that draws some of the area's most unique and special snowbirds – members of Amish and Mennonite orders who flock to our winter haven, escaping the harsh weather of Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania and other northern states.

Fine dining, farmers markets, breweries and much more. Dining in Sarasota County isn’t just another meal, it’s an adventure of culinary tastes.

Sarasota County is home to award-winning chefs and 21 Zagat-rated restaurants. Beyond fine dining, however, is a treasure trove of culinary experiences. Enjoy fresh produce from a Farmers Market, or pick right off the vine at a hydroponic farm.