Sarasota Dining Scene

When living the Sarasota lifestyle, you’ve got access to one of the best food scenes on the Gulf Coast—fresh seafood, creative fine dining, casual gems, and everything in between. The top spots shift a bit year to year with new openings and buzz, but as of early 2026, here’s a solid list of the top restaurants locals and visitors rave about most. I pulled from recent reviews (Tripadvisor, Yelp, OpenTable, local guides like Sarasota Magazine and Herald-Tribune), focusing on consistently high-rated ones across categories like seafood, fine dining, Italian, and more casual vibes.

These are in no strict order, but they’re the ones that keep popping up as must-tries:

• Owen’s Fish Camp (Downtown Sarasota) Classic Old Florida seafood spot with fresh Gulf catches, Southern flair, and a fun, funky vibe under banyan trees. Think grouper, shrimp, and live music—super popular for a reason. Often tops Tripadvisor lists.
  
  
• Indigenous (Towles Court, Downtown) Chef Steve Phelps (James Beard semifinalist) does sustainable, seasonal seafood and American dishes brilliantly. Fresh fish specials change daily, and the focus on local ingredients makes it feel special. A real standout for elevated dining.
  
  
• Antoine’s Restaurant (Sarasota area) Belgian-French fine dining with killer mussels (10 ways!), frites, and cozy vibes. High ratings everywhere—great for a romantic or special night out.
  
  
• Mediterraneo Ristorante Italiano (Sarasota) Authentic Northern Italian that’s been a local favorite forever—pasta, seafood, and consistent excellence. Often called one of the best Italians in town.
  
  
• Fork & Hen (Downtown Sarasota) Southern soul food with a modern twist—think hitman burgers, crab rangoon biscuits, and creative comfort eats. Scratch kitchen in a lively spot; super buzzy right now.
  
  
• Dry Dock Waterfront Grill (Sarasota area) Waterfront views, fresh seafood, and casual vibes—perfect for sunset drinks and dinner. Keeps showing up on Yelp top lists.
  
  
• Michael’s On East (Sarasota) Upscale contemporary American with AAA Four-Diamond status—steaks, seafood, great wine list. Solid for celebrations or business dinners.
  
  
• Ophelia’s on the Bay (Siesta Key) Romantic waterfront fine dining with bay views—seafood-focused, elegant, and often voted most romantic. Great for that special occasion feel.
  
  
• Summer House Steak & Seafood (Sarasota area) High-end steaks and fresh catches in a polished setting—strong contender for best steakhouse vibes.
  
  
• Columbia Restaurant (Sarasota location) Historic Spanish-Cuban spot (family-owned since ’67)—paella, 1905 salad, sangria. Classic and reliable with a cool old-school atmosphere.
  

A few honorable mentions that are heating up: Kojo for fun Japanese-Southern fusion, Florence and the Spice Boys for bold flavors, Ringside (newer circus-inspired spot on Lido Key with great seafood and steaks), and Duval’s Fresh for local seafood.

Sarasota’s scene mixes beachy casual with some seriously talented chefs, so it depends on what you’re craving—seafood dominates, but there’s killer Italian, steaks, and more. If you’re in the mood for something specific (like waterfront, fine dining, or budget-friendly), or want recs near Lido/Siesta Key/Rosemary District, hit me up—I can narrow it down or suggest reservations! What’s your vibe tonight?