“AS seen in The Scout Guide’s national article 8 Warm Weather Getaways, HERE”

Award-winning chefs and inventive cuisine abound in this sunny seaside paradise. In our Sarasota dining guide, you’ll find a wide range of sure-to-be favorites, from delicious bar food to the freshest fish to the ideal spot for a well-balanced cocktail. Enjoy, and don’t forget to tell them The Scout Guide sent you!

1592 Wood Fired Kitchen & Cocktails (1592 Main Street). Fans of wood-fire grill cooking and fresh Mediterranean food cannot go wrong at 1592. We love to dine al fresco here, complete with bistro lighting and ample fans for those hot Florida days! Pro tip: don’t miss their signature cocktails menu.

Sarafresh Juice (1430 Boulevard of the Arts). Healthy, refreshing and delicious— it’s hard to order incorrectly here. Cold pressed juices, smoothies and hearty acai bowls all made in house make this tiny juice bar a staple for locals and tourists alike.

Libby’s Neighborhood Brasserie (8445 Lorraine Road). From weekend brunch to weekday happy hours, this bustling eatery offers an energetic atmosphere paired with a menu of sure-to-be crowd favorites.

Circo Taco and Bourbon Bar (1435 Second Street). After a day on the beach, what sounds better than an artisan taco and an adult beverage? Everything on the menu is delicious but we’re particularly fond of the Thai shrimp tacos and a margarita to sip on!

Sage SRQ (1216 First Street). For those looking for an upscale, romantic experience, Sage is one of our go-tos. This historic Mediterranean-style building has been re-designed into an eclectic dining space while retaining the character and integrity of the original Sarasota Times Newspaper building. The menu is seasonal and globally inspired. And if you can’t sneak away for dinner their Sunday Brunch is phenomenal.

Bijou Garden Cafe (1287 First Street). This upscale cafe located in the heart of the Arts District has been doing fine dining in Sarasota for decades, and it shows. A seasonal menu and some of the freshest fish in town make Bijou consistently sit at the top of locals lists when it comes to date nights and celebratory affairs.

Tsunami Sushi & Hibachi (100 Central Avenue #1022). A downtown sushi spot that never misses the mark. Go for the creative sushi, a lively ambience and friendly staff.

Mattison’s City Grille (1 North Lemon Avenue). Open for brunch, lunch, dinner and late night, this chef-owned and operated restaurant offers local, fresh ingredients in a largely outdoor setting. Nightly live entertainment acts are the cherry on top for this Sarasota stalwart.

Mattison’s Forty One (7275 South Tamiami Trail). Mediterranean and New-American cuisine come alive at the casual but elegant, family-friendly eatery. Dine on one of the two patios or belly up to a bar and enjoy an appetizer and expertly crafted cocktail.

Chateau Anna Maria (5325 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach). As seen on the Food Network TV series, Summer Rush, The Chateau on the Lake’s newest property is The Chateau Anna Maria. This cozy, culinary gem sits waterfront on Anna Maria Island at the Waterline Marina & Resort. Awarded Top 100 Restaurants in America twice, this is a must dine when in the area.

99 Bottles Tap Room & Bottle Shop (1445 2nd Street). Craft beer in a cool, casual setting. With an extensive and impressive draft list, we recommend going for a flight and letting the expert staff help you find your new favorite brew. Looking to start early? Every Friday through Sunday they offer the best NY Bagel Brunch in town.

The Sarasota Manatee Originals. Defining the Florida Suncoast, the Sarasota Manatee Originals are a network of over 60+ locally owned independent restaurants here and across the country and encourage you to always “Eat Like A Local.”

For additional recommendations for what to do, see, and experience in Sarasota, browse or buy a copy of The Scout Guide Sarasota, Anna Maria Island to Boca Grande and follow TSG Sarasota on Instagram.