Food & Drink

Here's how to enjoy some of the Sunshine State's best food right here in Sarasota.

Florida is famous for lots of things—including some incredible food. Whether you want key lime pie, citrus fruits, a Cuban sandwich, stone crabs or another Sunshine State specialty, find it all right here in Sarasota.

Here's a rundown of some of Florida's most famous dishes and where you can savor them in the Sarasota area.

Sarasota’s six keys offer the best land-and-lure dining experiences within view or easy stroll of blue waters and white sand 

Sarasota’s keys are strung like a pearl-white necklace flowing down our piece of Gulf Coast shoreline. Each key is accessible by a span of uniquely arched bridges. And each island has its own vibe and culture, so it’s little wonder that dining experiences vary, too.

Sarasota’s speakeasies are more than just hidden haunts—they’re hideaways that invite you to step off the beaten path and into a world of craft cocktails, unique atmospheres and unique experiences.

Sarasota, with its sun-drenched beaches and laid-back vibe, may seem like the perfect place for an afternoon cocktail in a breezy, open-air bar by the beach. But beneath the surface, this Gulf Coast metropolis holds a secret: a collection of hidden, or speakeasy-style, bars that are as elusive as they are enchanting. 

No need to be carb-shy in Sarasota—these French-inspired or French-owned bakeries, cafes and restaurants will transport you to a "European summer" where baguettes over bikinis rule. 

You don't need to travel all the way to Paris to enjoy French cuisine and fresh baked treats. Trade out the Eiffel Tower for the Ca'd'Zan and have your European summer dreams lived out right here on Sarasota's coastline at our many Parisian cafés. Here are some top recommended French restaurants and bakeries in the area—from Siesta Key to Longboat Key and beyond. Bon appétit!

It may be hotter outside, but Sarasota's sweet spots will cool you down and refresh your summer's day.

There are plenty of places to go and indulge in frozen sweet treats to cool down—whether you want ice cream, a frozen daiquiri, a fruit popsicle, or yummy acai bowl. Here are some of the best places to enjoy a frozen sweet treat and retreat from the heat.