Sarasota FL - Highly Rated Restaurants

Welcome to Sarasota, Florida! Whether you're a local or a visitor, you're in for a treat when it comes to dining in this area. From fresh seafood to international cuisine, there are plenty of options to satisfy your appetite. Here's a guidebook to some of the best restaurants near Siesta Key and Sarasota.

1. Ophelia's on the Bay: This fine-dining restaurant is located on Little Sarasota Bay and offers breathtaking views of the water. Ophelia's specializes in fresh seafood, including oysters, lobster, and crab cakes. They also offer a variety of meat dishes, such as filet mignon and lamb chops.
2. Shore: Located on St. Armands Circle, Shore offers a contemporary atmosphere and a menu filled with fresh seafood and local ingredients. Try their famous seafood tower, which includes lobster, shrimp, crab, and oysters.
3. Michael's On East: A Sarasota staple for over 30 years, Michael's On East is a classic steakhouse that also offers a variety of seafood dishes. They also have an extensive wine list, making it a great spot for a special occasion.
4. The Cottage: This charming restaurant is located in Siesta Key Village and offers indoor and outdoor dining options. The Cottage serves up American cuisine with a Southern twist, such as shrimp and grits and fried chicken.
5. Indigenous: A farm-to-table restaurant located in downtown Sarasota, Indigenous offers a unique dining experience with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients. The menu changes frequently to reflect what's in season, but some favorites include the grass-fed beef burger and the roasted cauliflower steak.
6. Veronica Fish and Oyster: Located in the Rosemary District of Sarasota, Veronica Fish and Oyster offers a coastal-inspired menu with fresh seafood and craft cocktails. Don't miss their raw bar, which features oysters, clams, and shrimp.
7. Clayton's Siesta Grille: A casual spot located in Siesta Key Village, Clayton's Siesta Grille offers classic American dishes with a focus on fresh ingredients. Try their famous blackened grouper sandwich or their coconut shrimp.
8. Libby's Neighborhood Brasserie: Located in the Southside Village neighborhood of Sarasota, Libby's offers a casual yet sophisticated atmosphere and a menu filled with classic American dishes with a modern twist. Try the short rib grilled cheese or the duck confit salad.
9. Dry Dock Waterfront Grill: This laid-back spot is located on Longboat Key and offers waterfront dining with a menu focused on fresh seafood. Try the fish tacos or the seafood paella.
10. Duval's Fresh Local Seafood: Located in downtown Sarasota, Duval's offers a seafood-focused menu with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. Don't miss their crab cakes or their blackened mahi-mahi sandwich.

Whether you're in the mood for fine dining or casual fare, Sarasota has something to offer everyone. Enjoy your dining experience in this beautiful area of Florida!