The Best Restaurants in Downtown Sarasota | Top Dining Spots You Must Try

Introduction

You’ve been there before—scrolling through endless lists of restaurants, trying to find the perfect place to eat, feeling a mix of excitement and frustration. Maybe you’re planning a special night out, craving something new, or just looking for a cozy spot that feels like home. We get it. Finding that perfect dining experience is more than just picking a place to eat; it’s about creating moments, savoring flavors, and making memories.

Sarasota’s downtown is bursting with incredible restaurants, each offering its own unique experience. Whether you’re in the mood for an elegant fine dining experience, a laid-back brunch, or a vibrant cultural feast, there’s a place waiting for you. And we’re here to guide you through it—just like a friend who knows all the best spots in town.

Mediterranean and European Flavors

1592 Wood Fired Kitchen & Cocktails

Located at 1592 Main St., 1592 offers a fusion of Greek, Turkish, Syrian, Portuguese, and Italian flavors. A top choice for lunch, their two-course menu for just $14 is one of the best deals in town.

Cafe Epicure

A charming Italian trattoria at 1298 N. Palm Ave., Cafe Epicure serves unfussy yet delicious pasta dishes, salads, and pizzas. The carbonara, chicken Milanese, and oriecchiette with broccoli rabe are must-tries.

Caragiulos

This cozy neighborhood Italian-American eatery (69 S. Palm Ave.) is known for its house-made focaccia, traditional linguine with clam sauce, and rich Sicilian eggplant dishes.

C’est La Vie!

A slice of France in Sarasota, C’est La Vie! (1553 Main St.) is famous for its crêpes, quiches, croissants, and French pastries, making it an ideal breakfast or brunch stop.

Mediterraneo

Offering contemporary Northern Italian cuisine, Mediterraneo (1970 Main St.) boasts an impressive wine list and classic dishes like veal chop and fresh handmade pasta.

Asian & Fusion Delights

Bar Hana

A Polynesian-themed bar and eatery (1289 N. Palm Ave.), Bar Hana features Asian-fusion small plates and creative cocktails like the "Scarlett Macaw," a tropical blend of cachaça, vanilla, and pineapple.

Drunken Poet

For authentic Thai flavors, visit Drunken Poet (1572 Main St.). This intimate café serves mouthwatering Thai crispy duck, tamarind lamb shank, and delicious stir-fried dishes.

Kojo

An upscale Asian fusion restaurant (1289 N. Palm Ave.), Kojo is known for its bao buns, torched salmon nori tacos, and expertly crafted sushi rolls.

Pho Cali

If you’re craving Vietnamese cuisine, Pho Cali (1578 Main St.) is the go-to spot for authentic pho, fresh spring rolls, and traditional broths bursting with flavor.

Latin and Cuban Influences

BESO

Spanish tapas take center stage at BESO (30 S. Lemon Ave.), where you’ll find flavorful paella, creative amari-based cocktails, and a lively nightlife atmosphere.

Cuba 1958

A long-awaited Cuban restaurant in downtown Sarasota (1766 Main St.), Cuba 1958 serves traditional favorites like croquetas, empanadas, and masitas de puerco.

Selva

A top spot for Peruvian cuisine (1345 Main St.), Selva is known for its ceviche, vibrant small plates, and an energetic late-night menu.

Seafood & Coastal Dining

Duval’s

One of Sarasota’s best seafood restaurants (1435 Main St.), Duval’s offers fresh, rotating fish selections and mouthwatering po’ boys stuffed with fried shrimp or oysters.

Jack Dusty

Located inside The Ritz-Carlton (1111 Ritz-Carlton Drive), Jack Dusty combines waterfront views with top-tier seafood and raw bar selections.

Owen’s Fish Camp

For an Old Florida seafood experience (516 Burns Court), Owen’s serves "Naked Fish" with lemon-caper butter, alongside collard greens and succotash.

Vegan & Vegetarian-Friendly Spots

Lila

A pioneer in Sarasota’s plant-based movement, Lila (1576 Main St.) specializes in creative vegan dishes like the Burmese bowl and macro bowl with tahini-turmeric dressing.

Project

Known for its vegan-friendly coffee and breakfast options, Project (multiple locations) is a must-visit for oat milk lattes, smoothie bowls, and hearty plant-based meals.

Brunch & Casual Eats

The Breakfast House

Famous for its pancakes, The Breakfast House (1817 Fruitville Road) serves an unforgettable "Uncle Harry’s Hearty Breakfast" that’s a local favorite.

Palm Avenue Deli

Blending Jewish deli classics with a 1950s diner aesthetic (1297 N. Palm Ave.), Palm Avenue Deli offers iconic Reuben sandwiches and fresh bagels.

Il Panificio

This go-to pizza joint (1703 Main St.) is perfect for specialty slices, including breakfast pizza and traditional pepperoni options.

Fine Dining & Unique Experiences

Indigenous

For a refined dining experience, Indigenous (239 S. Links Ave.) focuses on sustainable seafood and innovative dishes crafted by renowned chef Steve Phelps.

Sage

An upscale dining destination (1216 First St.), Sage impresses with its rooftop bar, lamb chops marinated in Indian spices, and Thai-inspired bouillabaisse.

State Street Eating House + Cocktails

A trendy eatery (1533 State St.) with creative cocktails, State Street offers one of Sarasota’s best burgers alongside a flavorful ramen menu.

Unique & Cultural Cuisine

Turmeric

A modern Indian eatery (1001 Cocoanut Ave.), Turmeric infuses dishes with warm aromatic spices and innovative mocktails.

Tzeva

Located inside Art Ovation Hotel (1255 N. Palm Ave.), Tzeva delivers Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors with standouts like lamb shashlik over fragrant rice.

Conclusion

So, where will you go first? Will you dive into a steaming bowl of pho, savor a crispy duck confit, or indulge in a flaky croissant that transports you straight to Paris? The choice is yours—but now, you have a guide to make that decision easier.

Whatever you’re craving, know that Sarasota’s vibrant restaurant scene is here to offer not just meals, but moments. Take your time, explore, and let every bite tell a story. And when you find your favorite spot, share it with someone special—because great food is even better when enjoyed together.

For more Sarasota dining recommendations, visit KirkandStacy.com and explore our top picks!