Korean Ssam Bar
Daiquiri Deck
What Exactly is Jack Dusty? | Sarasota Restaurants Journal
Its not easy to create a restaurant that both locals and visitors will love. Theres something about new. The new car smell. New, never worn clothes. The feeling of new. Its knowing that youve never experienced this EXACT thing before. Thats what new is all about. … [Read more...]
Libby’s Rolls Out Some New Tastes
Can new really compete with some old favorites? Not surprisingly, yes! The menu. The concept seems benign enough. If you walk into any restaurant, in any city, you will at some point be faced with some choices. Your options may be written on a white board mounted on a nearby … [Read more...]
Fleming’s Steakhouse: Lump Crab Louis Wrap
I was flipping through a pile of old images from some of our Sarasota restaurants and came across some from a Flemings Steakhouse photo shoot I did a while back. This is their Lump Crab Louis Wrap. I had forgotten what a great appetizer it was. I thought I would dust off a … [Read more...]
Libby’s Cafe + Bar Rolls Out Special Craft Beer
Summer and beer. They go together like (insert your own song lyrics here). But, its true. Summer and beer do go pretty great together. Its either the step up in outdoor temperature or our increased activity level. Im not sure exactly, but, I do know that a cold beer is pretty … [Read more...]
Spyder Broussard and The Polo Grill Boil It Up
You dont have to be a rocket scientist to know an amazing food find when you see one. Four years goes by in the blink of an eye. Thats how long Tommy Klauber of the Polo Grill and his good friend (and relative) Spyder Broussard have been treating East County folks to an … [Read more...]
Celebrate Bastille Day Mattison’s Style
If you cant arrange a trip to Paris for this years Bastille Day celebration, Weve got a nice alternative plan for your celebration. How about a short trip over to Mattisons Forty One for their special Bastille Day menu? Chef Paul Mattison and his culinary staff are planning a … [Read more...]
Can’t Get Enough Prix Fixe? Hillview Grill Has You Covered
Savor Sarasota is over. Now all youre left with is that down in the dumps, no prix fixe menu, empty feeling. Fear not! There are lots of restaurants around town that are continuing the Savor Sarasota spirit. Over in the Southside Village neighborhood, the Hillview Grill can … [Read more...]
Have A Quick Peek At Nancy’s Menu
Whats currently the hottest ticket in town? If youre thinking Sarasota Film Festival, you may want to reconsider. How about a pulled pork sandwich? Thats right, pulled pork (or brisket). Nancys Bar-B-Q has unofficially opened and has lots of locals waiting in lines for a … [Read more...]
Libby’s Hits It Out Of The Park
When I think baseball, I think egg rolls. Don't you? OK, it's a stretch, I'll give you that. Back about four years ago, I had the opportunity to take a baseball trip with my son. Philadelphia was one of our stops. Obviously, The City of Brotherly Love, has a lot of things to do … [Read more...]
The Spice of Life
In Chicago, back in the mid-1990's, New York toy seller, FAO Schwarz tried a new concept. A candy store that was stocked to the gills with every type of confection known (and even unknown) to man. It was called FAO Schweetz. If you were under the age of ten, your eyes would … [Read more...]
SKOB: A Look Around The New Menu
Usually I reserve this space for some kind of snappy, somewhat food related banter. Not so today. Today's edition of the dSDISH is going to be a little different and something Im thinking about doing from time to time. Its not quite a photo essay, but, its not a … [Read more...]
The Monterey Grill: Wahoo!!
Say it, Fish-Burger. Go ahead, one more time, Fish-Burger. Now youre getting the idea. It might be a little unnatural when you first utter it, but, youll get the hang of it. Any place you walk into these days that serves casual fare seems to have a fish taco on the menu. So … [Read more...]
Fleming’s Adds Some “New Classics” To Their Old Favorites
Food is funny. Sometimes we scour our city in search of the latest in new and fresh cuisine. Other times we long for our culinary comfort zone. Can a steakhouse fit in to both categories? Its a question that has plagued mankind for centuries (OK, maybe not), but, it still … [Read more...]
The Hillview Grill: The Half Sandwich Combo
Gulf Gate, Downtown, St. Armands, Siesta Key and of course Southside Village. There are so many great restaurant hot spots here in Sarasota. We're pretty lucky that way. Lots of cities our size can't make that claim. A good amount of places have all of their best restaurants … [Read more...]
Trader Vic’s: Island-Tizer Platter
What to do on a rainy Sunday afternoon? Here are some choices. I could (A) just sit around the house, watch a little college basketball, do lots of nothing or I could (B) shop for bathroom fixtures. Hhhmm... That could be a tough choice. I know that every guy is just dying to … [Read more...]
Knick’s Tavern and Grill: Pulled Pork Sliders
Sliders are all the rage on restaurant menus these days. Not only here in Sarasota, but, pretty much everywhere you turn. And, it's not limited to the humble hamburger. No, they seem to make sliders out of everything from fish to hot dogs. Some of these "slider" interpretations … [Read more...]
Go Green With Fleming’s This St. Patrick’s Season
How about something a little less traditional this St. Patrick's Day season? I know you're probably thinking, "what no green beer?". Instead of the usual Black & Tan, how about a Fleming's Go Green wine dinner! From March 5th through March 14th Fleming's Prime Steakhouse and … [Read more...]
The Oasis Cafe: Blackened Basa Reuben
The versatile Reuben. You normally don't think of sandwiches in those terms, but, that's what the famous Reuben has become. You see it on almost every deli menu. Lately I've been seeing some interesting and delicious variations on the traditional version. Depending on which story … [Read more...]
The Corkscrew Deli: NY Style Corned Beef
Sarasota is not a hotbed of "real" deli food. I think we all know that. But, being from Chicago, I love a good corned beef sandwich. I was out in search of one today. Now, this is a very subjective area we're getting into here. Lots of discussion, lots of disagreement. Let's just … [Read more...]
It’s Your Wake Up Call, SKOB Style
The new year always brings us some great new Sarasota dining options. And, this year is no exception. Every Saturday and Sunday, from 9am to Noon, the Siesta Key Oyster Bar (SKOB). Will be offering local diners a fantastic breakfast menu. This special collection of items is sure … [Read more...]
dineSarasota Menu Monday: Caragiulos
A longtime downtown favorite. Fantastic casual Italian cuisine served in an atmosphere that is so relaxing it feels like home. No matter what you order from their menu it is sure to be a winner. Click on the image below to view the full menu. Caragiulos 69 S. Palm … [Read more...]
dineSarasota Menu Monday: Jimski’s
We just added Jimski's into our dineSarasota restaurant database last week. We thought you might want a peek at the menu. All Chicago, all the time! If you're from the Windy City you'll really appreciate this touch of home. Chicago Dogs, beefs, Jay's Potato Chips, combos, you … [Read more...]
dineSarasota Menu Monday: The Village Cafe
Let's say you're walking around Siesta Village and you're dying for a great breakfast or lunch. What to do? I've got a great idea for you. How about the Village Cafe. They have a fantastic breakfast and lunch menu and great service to match. Lots of locals (and visitors) make … [Read more...]
dineSarasota Menu Monday: Station 400
Looking for a great place to grab a relaxed and casual breakfast or lunch? I know Sarasota offers lots of options fitting that description. One of the newest entries is Station 400. Located in the old Sierra Station space on Lemon, Station 400 is reinventing the breakfast and … [Read more...]
Happy Thanksgiving!
Happy Thanksgiving from dineSarasota! Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday. Lots of food, football, family and friends. There's not a better combination. Most folks I know have some kind of at home Thanksgiving celebration. It might be their house or a friends house or most times … [Read more...]
Tiramisu: The Bella Roma Way
What finishes off a fine Italian meal better than a big slice a delicious Tiramisu? That's a tough call. It seems that this rich coffee and cocoa dessert wasn't created until the early 1970's or early 1980's. How did we end the perfect Italian meal before that? The … [Read more...]
dineSarasota Menu Monday: Tommy Bahama’s Tropical Cafe
How about a nice relaxing vacation style meal? With its St. Armands Circle location, Tommy Bahama's Tropical Cafe gives you that "I'm on Vacation" feel even if your a local. Known for their island style casual cuisine, Tommy Bahama's always delivers a great meal in a setting that … [Read more...]
It’s Slider Time at Selmon’s
I doubt that back in 1921 when White Castle founder Walter Anderson opened his first restaurant, that he could have foreseen how popular his tiny burger creation would be. Fast forward 89 years to 2010 and check out what the "slider" has become! There have been so many variations … [Read more...]
dineSarasota Menu Monday: Anna Maria Oyster Bar
There are three Sarasota/Bradenton area, Anna Maria Oyster Bar locations to choose from. Their Landside restaurant is located just north of the SRQ airport on North Tamiami Trail. They offer a great menu of local seafood to tempt your taste buds. It's also a comfortable family … [Read more...]
dineSarasota Menu Monday: Cha Cha Coconuts
Here's a long time Sarasota favorite. Cha Cha Coconuts, located on St. Armands Circle, has been serving up great casual food and drinks to hungry Sarasota diners for years. Looking for a place to grab a burger? Cha Cha's has a great one. Oh, and while you dine, you can also catch … [Read more...]
Chef Paul Mattison Shows Off His Wine Pairing Skills
There are a few chefs here in Sarasota who can make pairing great wine and great food seem effortless. Chef Paul Mattison is one of them. On Friday, September 25th Mattison's Forty-One will be showcasing Chef Paul's pairing skills at their Premium Wine Pairing Dinner. Guests will … [Read more...]
dineSarasota Menu Monday: Word of Mouth
Three great locations for breakfast and lunch. Word of Mouth also serves dinner at their downtown restaurant, the former Metro Coffee on Osprey. There are lots of fantastic traditional entree choices for you to choose from. Easy on the wallet pricing and prompt, attentive service … [Read more...]
dineSarasota Menu Monday (or Tuesday): Gecko’s Grill & Pub
Our regular Menu Monday feature comes to you a day late this week. With all of the BBQs, get togethers and relaxing over the Labor Day holiday weekend, you probably didn't notice anyway. I know I didn't. All that being said, here's our Menu Monday restaurant. Gecko's Grill & … [Read more...]
dineSarasota Menu Monday: MacAllisters Grill & Tavern
This week our Menu Monday feature takes us out to Lakewood Ranch. One of the anchors on Lakewood Ranch Main Street from the beginning has been MacAllisters Grill & Tavern. Their great take on casual American, mixed with some authentic Scottish fare, make it a fantastic place … [Read more...]
dineSarasota Menu Monday: Mozaic
For our Menu Monday feature this week we have picked a relatively new addition to the downtown dining scene, Mozaic. Located in the space which was formerly Cru Bistro, Chef Dylan Elhajoui has created a new culinary jewel for Sarasota. Click on the image below for the full … [Read more...]
dineSarasota Menu Monday: Roy’s Chef Partner Dinner
Put five of Sarasota's best Chefs in the same kitchen, on the same night and what do you get? A truly special culinary evening. Every Monday in this space we highlight a menu from one of our local restaurants. This week is no different, but, with a twist... On Wednesday August … [Read more...]
Lee Roy Selmon Rolls Out His “Hall of Farm” Salads
With our Sarasota summer in full swing, I think everyone would like a cool refreshing break from the temperature outside. I'm talking about beating the heat with a cool, refreshing summer salad. And, I know a place you can do just that. Lee Roy Selmon's is featuring four new … [Read more...]
dineSarasota Menu Monday: The Hillview Grill
It's Happening, That's the slogan of the Hillview Grill. The Southside Village eatery has been under new ownership for over a year now. The new management team has really made an effort put their stamp on the place and it shows. Whether it's $5 martini Wednesdays or 1/2 price … [Read more...]
Derek’s American Table Menu: Southwest
For the past couple of years acclaimed Chef Derek Barnes of Derek's Culinary Casual has been featuring his American Table menu. This thematic culinary journey highlights a different portion of the country each week. Derek then creates delicious and inspired menu selections … [Read more...]
dineSarasota Menu Monday: Knick’s Tavern & Grill
This is one of Sarasota's gems! Located in the Southside Village neighborhood, Knick's Tavern & Grill is more than what it's name suggests. They offer an amazing menu of home style-gourmet dishes. That's my term, not theirs. I use that because the food feels comfortable, but … [Read more...]
dineSarasota Menu Monday: Mi Pueblo
No matter where you live in the Sarasota area, there is a Mi Pueblo that's pretty close to you. With locations in Sarasota, University Park and Venice you'll never be far from great Mexican fare. Pop in and try one of their affordable lunch specials. Click on the image below to … [Read more...]
dineSarasota Menu Monday: 9th Street Bistro
Want to have a great meal AND do something to help your community. Well, now you can with a stop for lunch at the 9th Street Bistro. They offer a full menu of sandwiches, salads and wraps that you will love. Plus, your purchase helps support our local Meals on Wheels program. … [Read more...]
dineSarasota Menu Monday: Tropical Thai
A Main Street mainstay. Tropical Thai has been serving fantastic Thai and Asian style cuisine for as long as some people can remember (like me!). They also serve a nice array of sushi. A great menu of freshly prepared dishes greets diners for lunch and dinner. Click on the menu … [Read more...]
Summer Size It At Mattisons
With the hot summer weather here, lots of folks are turning to a little lighter fare for mealtime. With that in mind, Chef Paul Mattison has rolled out his Summer-Sized Menus. Enjoy a fantastic three course dinner menu for $25 or a two course lunch menu for $15. Each of these … [Read more...]
dineSarasota Menu Monday: Deli Lane
Our Menu Monday feature this week takes us over to the Southgate neighborhood. Deli Lane, located on Siesta Drive just across from the Westfield Southgate Mall, features a menu that has great breakfast and lunch fare. Along with traditional favorites, your sure to find some new … [Read more...]
How To Do Cafe L’Europe in 15 Minutes
It's lunchtime, you're walking (or driving) around St. Armands Circle. You want to stop for a bite to eat, but do you really have the time? With everyone's hectic pace these days, I think we all have probably had that experience. Now, circle standout, Cafe L'Europe is making it … [Read more...]
dineSarasota Menu Monday: Siesta Key Oyster Bar
Is there a better place than SKOB to kick back, relax with a cold drink, eat some island style food and listen to great LIVE music all at the same time? I'm not sure if there is, but I'll keep looking. In the meantime, why not stop by the Siesta Key Oyster Bar for all of the … [Read more...]
Caragiulo’s Makes This Summer Special
It's been 20 years since the Caragiulo Brothers first opened their Sarasota restaurant. It's amazing how quickly time files. In those twenty years, the Palm Avenue eatery has been feeding locals and visitors fantastic Italian fare that keeps them coming back for more. They've … [Read more...]
dineSarasota Menu Monday: Treviso
Whether your taking in a play at the historic Asolo Theater or just strolling though the John and Mable Ringling Museum, Treviso Restaurant is a great way to start or end your excursion. Here's a look at what Treviso has on their lunch menu. CLICK ON THE MENU FRONT FOR A FULL … [Read more...]
dineSarasota Menu Monday: Sarasota Vineyard
Right on Main Street in downtown Sarasota, the Sarasota Vineyard is a fantastic place to enjoy a bottle of wine or casual meal. Try an appetizer, salad or bistro plate. Pair that up with one their great wines and you've got the makings for a relaxing and fun evening. Want to … [Read more...]
dineSarasota Menu Monday: Javier’s Restaurant and Wine Bar
Looking for a great four course tapas meal? Javier's Restaurant and Wine Bar on Siesta Key can take care of that for you. For the price of $22.95, you can choose from lots of great Peruvian dishes to create your own signature tapas style meal. If you go, write a comment and … [Read more...]
dineSarasota Menu Monday: Madfish Grill
Do you have a craving for some great fresh seafood? Well, it's Florida, so who doesn't. If that describes your mood then a trip to Madfish Grill is in order. Just south of the corner of Bee Ridge and Cattlemen, Madfish is serving up fantastic seafood dishes daily. Here's a peek … [Read more...]
dineSarasota Menu Monday: Bamboo Bistro
A new edition to Siesta Village (located across the street from Davidson's Plaza), Bamboo Bistro is serving up wraps, sandwiches and salads to hungry key diners. They also feature a full breakfast menu. Need a refresher on a hot Sarasota day? Bamboo Bistro carries Sweet Tart … [Read more...]
dineSarasota Menu Monday: El Greco Cafe
Located on the corner of Main and Orange, the El Greco Mediterranean Cafe has been a Sarasota dining staple for years. They have just completed some great exterior renovations. They have added a new awning to the front of the building to accommodate sidewalk bistro style dining. … [Read more...]
dineSarasota Menu Monday: Monterey Grill
The Monterey Grill located in the Paradise Plaza (behind Publix) has a menu loaded with great dining options. Check out their specialty salads, extraordinary sandwiches, burgers and rice bowls. You can fax in your order for a pickup or they will deliver your order straight to the … [Read more...]
Yoder’s Hosting Man vs. Food On Saturday
On Saturday May 2nd, Sarasota's very own Yoder's Restaurant will play host to the Travel Channel's, Man vs. Food. That's right, Adam Richman will be at the restaurant filming a segment for the popular food show to be aired later this year. They will be shooting a few kitchen … [Read more...]
dineSarasota Menu Monday: The Serving Spoon
A Sarasota favorite. The Serving Spoon has been dishing out great breakfast and lunches for years here in town. With three locations to choose from you can find one that's convenient for you. A casual, relaxed atmosphere with reasonable prices and good service. What more can you … [Read more...]
dineSarasota Menu Monday: Rick’s, The French Bistro
It seems like for a city its size, Sarasota has a pretty good amount of French restaurants. Not that I'm complaining mind you, it's more of an observation. Rick's, located in the Southgate area is one that doesn't get mentioned as frequently as the others. It could be because of … [Read more...]
dineSarasota Menu Monday: Roadside Rib Shack
Have you ever found yourself just driving around and around Sarasota looking for great BBQ? I know I have (and on more than one occasion). Well, stop the car! Roadside Rib Shack has what you're looking for, REAL southern style BBQ. You can eat in, carryout or even have them cater … [Read more...]
Stingray’s Grill Rises To The Top In April
The LIST for April 2009 is out and Stingray's Grill sits at the top. Making a big jump from number 5 to the top spot in one month. The former Shell's Seafood Restaurant is getting lots of attention. Cafe Gabbiano, The Sandollar Rooftop Restaurant, Shakespeare's English Pub and … [Read more...]
dineSarasota Menu Monday: Piccolo Italian Market and Deli
An out of the way Sarasota treat. Piccolo Italian Market and Deli has amazing (and GIANT) Italian specialty sandwiches. The restaurant is located in the Gulf Gate area. Piccolo's has about 6 tables to eat in or do what a lot of people do and carry out their great Italian … [Read more...]
dineSarasota Menu Monday: Pincher’s Crab Shack
Pincher's Crab Shack located off of Clark and Honore has a menu filled with fresh seafood choices. It looks like there's something here for everyone. CLICK ON THE MENU FOR A LARGER VIEW … [Read more...]
dineSarasota Menu View: New York, New York
New York, New York has just opened up on Hillview Street. They have taken over the space formerly occupied by The Table. It looks like they have a great selection of American cuisine. Here's what you can expect to find. Click on the menu for a PDF file that you can print out. … [Read more...]