Must-See Neighborhood: Burns Court

Amid the new construction and tropical vibes of Sarasota, lies a neighborhood unlike any others found here. Instead of Island-inspired pastels or stark modernity, brick and patina exude an Old World charm. The Burns Court community—spanning only a few blocks down Orange Ave, Pineapple Ave, and Burns Ct—fills a much-needed niche, one that brings visitors to a time and place where charm, pride and friendliness surpass mass production or speed. Small and old, with a bit of spunk, it’s the Sophia Petrillo of neighborhoods.

Located just south of Downtown Sarasota, Historic Burns Court Square represents the history of Sarasota in a triangle-shaped summary. Owen Burns rightfully deserves credit for most things Sarasota, from our boundaries to our paved roads, seawalls to St. Armand’s Circle. As homage to this man, we have this colorful enclave bursting with Sarasota art and culture.

This pride in the area is represented in each aspect of Burns Court. From Mediterranean Revival style architecture on the buildings and bungalows that proudly boast their color and patina to the large, hand-painted murals on the walls, you easily explore it all by foot, car or Veo scooter. And don't be surprised to discover warm friendliness in the names, décor and attitude of the local establishments within. 

Local Shops & Boutiques

Burns Court is not the place for chain restaurants or mass production stores. Small businesses rule in this neighborhood, from artisan florists and tattoo parlors to nail salons and barber shops.

Shopping consists mainly of vintage and antique shops, including The Exchange, Sarasota Trading Company and Pineapple Bay Trading Company, and their treasured merchandise seems perfectly at home in their surroundings. A stroll past the décor outside will inspire a purchase or two inside. 

Women's clothing retailers do not represent the large chain offerings—but rather trendy boutique or couture themes. Motel Therapy, Modern Soul, L Boutique and Brooklyn Boutique offer well-made, curated attire and accessories that the friendly staff is clearly proud of. No angsty sales staff annoyed to be pulled away from their cell phones here. Have a chat, buy a top and support local business—it’s an enjoyable experience rather than a rushed one. 

Other fun retail finds include holistic beauty and wellness shop, Figgy Co; high-end homeware, furniture and decor at Shibui at Home; gemstones and estate jewelry at Fisher & Fine; and retro mugs, books, candles, gifts at vintage-inspired Burns Mercantile general store.

Good Sips & Bites

Dining in Burns Court continues the slow experience theme. But, as a whole, we tend to rush. We rush our meals, we rush our visits, we rush, rush, rush. Burns Square reminds us to slow down and chat with our company and savor our food. If you’re running late and need a quick bite, this isn’t the place for you.

The Fountain Kitchen + Wine Bar, located in the Burns Building, the triangular brick structure located at the tip of the neighborhood. The building was the creation of an architect based in both Sarasota and New York and the combined influences demonstrate something truly unique. This is where you fill find signage explaining the history of Owen Burns and his neighborhood, as well as an inviting pizza joint. Inside and out on the patio, the vibe is European, where live music hums in the background; good, simple food appears with a friendly face; and desserts and wine entice you to never leave. 

Just down the way is a hidden local gem, known as Michelle's Brown Bag. The quaint outdoor patio and coxzy cafe offers breakfast and lunch sandwiches, hearty soup and salads, and the biggest, best homemade chocolate chunk cookies you may ever have. 

Open only for dinner, the wait at Owen’s Fish Camp – undoubtedly one of Sarasota’s most popular restaurants (with both visitors and locals) – can reach hours-long waits. But as you wait for your (totally worth it) table, you get to enjoy your company in their downhome patio area oasis, where live local music plays under massive banyan trees, kids laugh on a suspended tire swing, the backyard bar is open, games are played and an open fire serves up oysters. Suddenly, that wait doesn’t seem too long, it doesn’t seem long enough. 

For a good cup of coffee, matcha latte and vegan baked goods, Project Coffee remains a happening and hip spot in the mornings to early afternoons, attracting everyone from students and remote workers to those who happen to be strolling by and looking for a pick-me-up. Similarly, Summer Tap Juice Bar offers the same loungey, come work and study vibe, but with cold-pressed juices and smoothies. 

Arts & Culture Activities

Nestled even deeper into the neighborhood is one of Sarasota’s greatest secrets – the Burns Court Cinema. The purple theatre features screenings of independent movies and documentaries you didn’t even know you wanted to see. There are no reclining chairs or t-bones brought out during the previews. This is a classic film viewing experience. There is something liberating and nostalgic about watching films made with pride and artistic expression rather than box office profits in mind.

The ‘come one, come all’ attitude of Burns Court extends to its scheduled activities. These aren’t the large, loud block parties of Main Street, but rather intimate gatherings for all generations. Activities seem to encourage togetherness and attract creative souls. For instance, the annual Sarasota's Chalk Festival invites chalk artists from all over to cover the sidewalks up and down Pineapple Ave with something out of their own imagination. So don't be confused if you notice many people strolling with their heads down instead of up through Burns Court. 

Even if you don’t feel hungry or in no need for a new blouse or vase, a walk through the neighborhood soothes the soul. There’s no rushing, and every nook and cranny features some hidden goodie to unearth—whether it be a local character, surprising art or architecture.