
Eight of the best restaurants in Sarasota, Florida—covering location, specialties, ambiance, and why each one stands out.
Ocean Prime – 501 Quay Commons, The Quay Sarasota
Located in the sophisticated Quay development, Ocean Prime is Sarasota’s latest gem. Inaugurated in 2025, it claimed “Best New Restaurant” in Sarasota Magazine’s Best of Sarasota awards.
Nestled on the waterfront, this upscale steak-and-seafood concept blends coastal elegance with refined comfort. Guests rave about premium cuts like USDA prime steaks, freshly shucked oysters, and indulgent seafood towers—all expertly paired with signature cocktails and an award-winning wine list. With sweeping marina views from its spacious patio, it’s a perfect venue for date nights, celebrations, or simply indulging.
Selva Grill – 1345 Main Street (Downtown)
A vibrant downtown hotspot, Selva Grill offers innovative Peruvian-Latin cuisine and was honored as “Best Date Night Restaurant” in SRQ Magazine’s 2025 issue.
Known for its artful plating and lively atmosphere, Selva excels with dishes like ceviche, anticuchos (skewers), and creative mains featuring chimichurri or mango-butter sauces. OpenTable notes that “everything on the menu is worth trying,” crediting its reputation for bold flavors and refined presentation.
Its ambiance—a mix of energetic décor and live Latin beats—makes it as memorable as the food.
Fork & Hen – Corner of Washington and Main (Downtown)
Fork & Hen serves Southern comfort food with style. This scratch-kitchen gem has become a local favorite, boasting a 4.8-star Yelp rating and high OpenTable recommendations.
Menu highlights include The Hitman Burger, Crab Rangoon Drop Biscuits, Chicken & Waffles smothered in maple-lavender butter, and Mama’s Shrimp Fried Rice. They even include a vegetarian surprise: Deep Deep South Falafel. Casual yet bold, its vibrant atmosphere and communal seating provide a perfect spot for family meals or casual lunches downtown.
Indigenous – Downtown Sarasota
Helmed by James Beard semifinalist Steve Phelps, Indigenous is applauded for its dedication to seasonal, locally sourced ingredients and sustainable practices.
Diners appreciate dishes like Green Curry Fish Dip and playful seafood plates that celebrate regional flavors. OpenTable consistently rates it among the city’s top American eateries.
With a focus on peak-season produce and eco-conscious sourcing, this restaurant is a standout for those who prioritize mindful dining.
Bicyclette Cookshop – Downtown Sarasota
Bicyclette is a modern New-American eatery earning “Restaurant of the Year” honors from USA Today in 2025.
Its chef-driven menu features inventive small plates like zucchini blossoms stuffed with ricotta and nduja, chicken schnitzel, and ceviche, complemented by an indulgent olive-oil soft-serve dessert.
Sleek wood-toned interiors and relaxed yet upscale vibe make it ideal for pre- or post-theater dining. Sustainability-conscious, the restaurant focuses on fresh, local produce and seasonal composition.
Owen’s Fish Camp – Downtown Sarasota
A longtime favorite, Owen’s Fish Camp embodies rustic, Southern‑inspired seafood charm. Recognized for “Best Outdoor/Patio Dining” by Sarasota Magazine 2025, this laid-back spot offers pimento-chive drop biscuits and classic coastal fare like fried shrimp and grits. Tucked under live oaks with twinkling lights overhead, it feels like a coastal backyard retreat—perfect for relaxed dinners and family gatherings.
Cuba 1958 – Downtown Sarasota
Located in the former Flavio’s on Main space, Cuba 1958 has quickly won hearts as a downtown Cuban haven. Drawing on authentic family recipes, the menu features classics like ropa vieja, lechón asado, and Cuban sandwiches served on pressed, buttery bread. The atmosphere is warm and nostalgic—a nod to mid‑century Havana. Whether dining inside or savoring sidewalk eats, it’s a flavorful, cultural gem in the heart of the city.
Shore – 800 Broadway Street, Longboat Key
Though technically just north of Sarasota on Longboat Key, Shore is firmly part of the region’s dining allure. It claimed “Best Waterfront Dining” in Sarasota Magazine’s 2025 awards.
The restaurant combines California‑style mid‑century décor with Gulf views, creating an airy coastal feel. Signature dishes include the lobster, crab & shrimp Cobb salad—a favorite for its generous size and fresh flavors. Shore is the go-to for laid-back waterside elegance.
Honorable Mentions
- Pho 101 Noodle House: Lauded as the best local Vietnamese pho by Southern chefs and SRQ Magazine.
- Don’t miss the tender brisket and tendon in a rich, house-made broth.
- Ocean Prime’s sister concept Dry Dock Waterfront Grill on Longboat Key, prized for casual seafood and lively.
Why These Eight Rise to the Top
- Culinary Excellence: Ocean Prime and Indigenous both stand out for their commitment to quality and seasonality.
- Flavor Diversity: From Peruvian‑Latin spices (Selva) to warm Cuban nostalgia (Cuba 1958) to Southern soul (Fork & Hen), the offerings span global palettes.
- Ambiance & Location: Waterfront views (Ocean Prime, Shore), cozy patios (Owen’s), and downtown vibe (Selva, Fork & Hen) each provide unique sit‑down experiences.
- Industry Recognition: These establishments have earned awards and acclaim—from local press to chef endorsements and national listings.
Final Bite
Whether you’re seeking romantic waterfront dinners, vibrant downtown options, or taste-of-home comfort dishes, Sarasota delivers. These eight restaurants are more than just places to eat—they represent the soul of the region: elegant yet approachable, bold yet familiar, diverse yet distinctly Floridian. Dig in and savor everything this dynamic coastal city has to offer.
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