Downtown Sarasota’s Best Restaurants

Whether you live near Sarasota or just visiting, at some point you will want to enjoy a great meal.  Therefore, I am sharing a few top-notch downtown restaurants. Let’s dive into a few popular and amazing dining options in Downtown Sarasota.

Boca 

19 S Lemon Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236 | Full Menu

Located in the heart of Downtown Sarasota on Lemon Street, Boca is set apart by its strong farm-to-table focus. As a result, the menu is based on its mission to support a local food movement. Whenever possible, they source ingredients from nearby farmers and specialty food purveyors.  That is to say, they believe that everybody wins with farm-to-table fare, from farmer to chef to diner. 

This is a great spot to take in a weekend brunch with friends. Chose from a selection of fresh mimosas, a variety of benedicts, French toast, freshly-baked muffins, and so much more. In the mood for lunch options? Take your pick from the selection of salads, sandwiches, soups, or flatbreads. If dinner is what you are looking for, try one of their hearty entrée options including meatloaf, gnocchi, or Florida pink shrimp and grits. 

 

Mattison’s City Grille

1 N Lemon Ave Sarasota, FL 34236 | Full Menu

If you are a Sarasota local, you have most likely eaten at Mattison’s City Grille. This downtown Tiki Bar is a staple in Sarasota and definitely a spot to check out. Downtown Sarasota’s diverse neighborhood is reflected in its menu. Furthermore, Mattison’s takes great pride in its mission to provide all-natural, antibiotic, and hormone-free ingredients obtained from sustainable sources.

Mattison’s City Grille serves lunch, dinner, happy hour, and brunch. They offer a variety of cuisines including American, Mediterranean, Asian, Caribbean, and Italian. Above all, guests can expect chef-crafted items with house-made sauces, hand-cut steaks, fresh seafood, and locally grown produce.   

Mattison’s has live music and happy hour daily from 3-7.

 

Marina Jack’s

2 Marina Plaza, Sarasota, FL 34236 | Full Menu

Relax and unwind to the ocean breezes of the Gulf of Mexico. Similarly, enjoy your favorite tropical beverage while dining al fresco in a family-friendly environment at the Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill. In contrast, you could take in the fine dining option on the second floor at The Dining Room. Here you will find an exceptional menu featuring the finest steaks, seafood, and pasta. In addition, The Dining Room boasts an award-winning wine list. Either way, Marina Jacks offers a variety of options for the most incredible, waterfront dining experience. Therefore, relax, enjoy and take in the gorgeous view of Sarasota’s inter-coastal waterway. And above all, no formal dress code is required

Looking for something extra special? In this case, book the sunset Dinner Tour/Cruise. It is a truly memorable way to enjoy the sunset over the Gulf of Mexico.

 

Café Amici

1371 Main Street Sarasota, FL 34236 | Full Menu

This charming, quaint restaurant is located in heart of beautiful, downtown Sarasota. Dining at Café Amici is truly a relaxing, enjoyable experience. Moreover, their knowledgeable, friendly staff are eager to do whatever it takes to make your occasion memorable. 

Start with their outstanding Calamari as an appetizer.  After that, have the Osso Bucco as your entree!  All of their menu items are traditional and delicious. Therefore, you may even need to stick around for dessert or an after-dinner drink. In short, if you’re hoping to experience a delicious Italian feast, look no further than Cafe Amici.

Element

50 Central Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236 | Full Menu

Element is an exquisite dining experience.  Conveniently located in the heart of  Downtown Sarasota, this restaurant is adored by newcomers and regulars alike. The culinary team creates modern interpretations of traditional classics and fuses them with distinctive gastronomic flare. As a result, the dining experience is bold, modern yet still timeless. The atmosphere is welcoming.  And the knowledgeable staff is committed to exceeding your expectations. 

If you are looking for a great steak, chicken, or seafood meal- you will not be disappointed. In addition, Element offers an extensive wine list and a variety of cocktails. Dine alfresco on the beautiful outdoor terrace. Or host a special event or meeting in their private dining room. Without a doubt, the options at Element are endless and excellent.

 

In conclusion, there are a number of other amazing restaurants in Downtown Sarasota and throughout the Sarasota Metro area. For more information on other great local eateries, check out Discover 5 of the Best Restaurants to Dine in Sarasota. Or if you are looking for a great brewery or burger – watch this video:  Sarasota’s Best Breweries, Burgers, and BBQ