Absolutely breathtaking! The beach is a true paradise warm, crystal-clear waters that are so inviting, and perfectly shallow for wading or just relaxing. The scenery is stunning, and the peaceful atmosphere makes it the ideal spot to unwind and soak up the sun.”

— Siesta Key Beach Florida Review — I’ve been here 5 weeks ago. It is the best beaches I have ever been to. I definitely recommend going to this exact beach in Florida if you want Jacuzzi style relaxation. The water is really hot! When it’s sunny and humid, you will have to handle it going into the water will make it worse since it’s really hot. 5 star beach and definitely the best beaches I ever went to. Highly recommend!

5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️!! Siesta Beach is ranked among the top 10 best beaches in the U.S. every year — and of course, our family wanted to see if it really deserves the title. It absolutely does! All the photos online are real — not exaggerated at all. Parking: there are plenty of spots, though I imagine it might be tricky to find one during the busy season. There are also designated spaces for people with disabilities. Before reaching the main beach area, there’s a large shaded zone with a playground, picnic shelters, and showers. It takes about 5–7 minutes to walk from the parking lot to the beach. The sandy area is divided by a small service road where you can easily set up a tent or have a picnic. The sand is truly amazing — pure white, very fine, soft, and cool even on hot days. The ocean is a paradise for the eyes! The water color is stunning, even when there are waves. The entry into the water is smooth and safe, perfect for kids. There are lifeguards on duty and sheriff patrols, which makes you feel even safer. Highly recommend this beach for everyone — families, groups of friends, or couples looking for a beautiful and relaxing spot to enjoy the day. 💙

The sand is truly unique — pure white, incredibly soft, and as fine as powder. The best part is that it never gets too hot, so you can walk barefoot along the entire shoreline without a problem. The water is stunningly clear, with a gorgeous turquoise color and a perfect temperature of around 30°C, making it ideal for swimming or simply relaxing in the shallows. The beach is also very well equipped. At the entrance, you’ll find places to buy drinks, snacks, and light meals, which is super convenient if you want to spend the whole day there. There are free parking areas — although when I visited on a Wednesday, they were almost full, so I can imagine weekends get quite busy. Another big plus is the excellent facilities: there are showers and restrooms available, all very well maintained and clean, adding to the comfort of your visit. On top of that, a pleasant breeze keeps the heat from feeling overwhelming, making the whole experience even more enjoyable. The atmosphere is lively yet relaxed, with families, couples, and friends all enjoying the sun, the sand, and the beautiful surroundings without it feeling too crowded. It’s the perfect blend of natural beauty, comfort, and good vibes — a place you’ll want to return to again and again.

Best beaches in the Sarasota area. Get there early if you want to find a parking spot. It is a very popular beach and people flock here. Food is available and there are ample public bathrooms and foot washing station. The beach is a bit of a hike from the parking lot but well worth the walk. Great place to take your family. Plenty of space for grilling, a playground for the kids, and a few covered areas for large parties and to stay out of the sun.

The sand at Siesta Key is unbelievably soft — it literally feels like walking on flour. The beach is spotless, the water is clear, and the sunsets are unbeatable.

Visiting Siesta Beach was one of the best beach experiences I’ve ever had. The moment I stepped onto the sand, I understood why it’s consistently ranked one of the best beaches in the country—and even the world. The sand is unbelievably soft and cool to the touch, even on a hot day. It’s not your typical beach sand either—this is pure white quartz that feels like walking on velvet. It made just being there feel relaxing and refreshing, before I even reached the water. The beach itself is massive, so even when there are a lot of people, it doesn’t feel crowded. I liked how easy it was to find a spot to settle in without being too close to anyone. The water was calm, crystal clear, and perfect for swimming or just floating around. You could really tell the area is well-maintained, from the clean restrooms and outdoor showers to the lifeguards stationed throughout, giving you a real sense of safety and care. But what really made it special for me was the atmosphere. It’s peaceful, family-friendly, and full of people enjoying themselves without the chaos or noise of more commercial beaches. I even got to stay long enough to catch the drum circle at sunset, which was an incredible experience. Watching the sun dip into the Gulf while listening to live drumming and seeing people dance freely in the sand—it just had this beautiful energy that stays with you. Siesta Beach isn’t just another beach—it’s a destination that feels like a perfect mix of nature, relaxation, and good vibes. Whether you want to play, unwind, take a long walk, or just sit and watch the waves, this place has it all. I would absolutely come back again and again. It’s a true gem of Sarasota and easily one of my favorite spots in all of Florida.

If you're looking for the tiki bar experience you won't go away lacking. Plenty of seating, indoors or outdoors, shady or full sun tucked into all kinds of spots. There's some corn hole or other games for free. Get a cold pitcher of beer for $10 or a well drink for $3 during the 11-6 Happy Hour. Our server Drew happily took our drink and food orders. Our food came out hot and ready to eat. The fries were cooked perfectly. I got the fried "Jumbo" shrimp. They were extra large at best and a little overcooked, but seasoned well. My wife got the beans and rice bowl with a huge piece of grouper on it. She couldn't finish it. Everyone else loved there meals. Drew helped make it an amazing experience.

Atmosphere was very tropical and plenty of live music in this restaurant as well as surrounding restaurants. We sat on the porch outside and I had the fried shrimp with cocktail sauce and my wife had a salad and salsa and fresh made chips. Raider was attentive and friendly. We use public parking which is $8 an hour apparently throughout the city there. Very enjoyable meal. Easy to recommend.

Great food. Big portions! Fun & friendly staff. Thanks to Chris M & Marie. We have been twice so far in 1 wk! The grilled & blackened shrimp salads are amazing. Their mai tai's, pina coladas & mudslides are sooo good!!

We almost didn’t try this place out due to some of the other reviews. But after not being happy at another place we decided to just do it. And we are happy we did. This place was nothing like the bad reviews we read. Outside of the weather being hot with possible thunderstorms, and having no fan on our table. The food was great! It was piping hot and fresh. The chicken quesadilla was the best. The fish a chips were good as well. The staff was friendly and our waitress was very attentive. We only wished the general manager had visited our table. We were visiting, but this place is an additional to why we will return. Look passed any bad reviews and give this place a try. We found it was worth it!

Very fun dinner out for my hubby’s BD! Drew was our waiter and took excellent care of us! He was super friendly and attentive. We had the nachos - WOW! Huge and delicious. The tacos and grilled chicken sandwich were great entrees. I had the pineapple lemon martini and the mango colada! Yummy - great music and really fun atmosphere! Plus you’re in Siesta Key - everything is better here!

Hostess kept us informed on our wait. Shannon was our waitress and she was AMAZING. Very tentative to our requests (party of 6). She kept everyone's glasses full and was very sweet. The food was amazing as well. They had live music which was also good. The whole place was a VIBE and we look forward to our next trip here.

Beachy Vibes and Big Flavor in Siesta Key 🌴🐟🍹We always forget to take photos because we’re too busy enjoying our conversations. Gilligan’s is a must-visit every time we’re in Siesta Key. The beachy, laid-back vibe paired with drink specials (served in fun souvenir cups!) keeps us coming back. The fish tacos were loaded with crispy white fish, check out the size of that portion! They were topped with coconut rum slaw and full of flavor. The beef burgers are just as massive and satisfying for non-seafood lovers. This time we also tried the Drunken Chicken Sandwich, which wasn’t bad at all, especially paired with sweet potato fries and an extra side of their tropical rum sauce for dipping. It really hit the spot. Solid drinks, generous portions, and island vibes make this place a go-to for casual dining and good times. 🌺🍔🍤

We arrived right at 3:00 to begin the happy hour. They didn't seem to have very many servers so it took a while to get served. Our server was very knowledgeable of the drinks that were available and the flavors. Our drinks were delivered cold and ready to drink. Although you might want to mix it a little bit.

This bar & restaurant is SO CLEAN. The staff are friendly, the service is quick and the food is what you’d expect from a beach bar. So many choices. It’s not often you find such a clean and well run beach establishment. The bartender is always cleaning and helping bus tables for wait staff. Can’t recommend enough !

Always go here. Food was great and our waitress Brook was wonderful. Always smiling and was super friendly she checked in on us frequently making sure we were having a good time and everything was to par. Very attentive. I had the coconut shrimp was delicious and the nachos. Best I’ve had on the Island. Be back soon.

Ray is an amazing bartender. Love the atmosphere, grouper fingers were on point, we'll be back for sure!! 😁

We came for lunch during our honeymoon, the daiquiris are great as they should be with the name of the restaurant being what it is. But where this place shined was the service and presentation. The food was great, beating expectations. And the server, Ryan was awesome and extremely accommodating. He provided quality service that is hard to find these days. (Atmosphere has a potential for 5 but being lunch on a Sunday it was calm.)

I had Shawn as a my waiter and he is the best waiter I have ever experienced on top of are orders with the best customer service and positive you guys are truly blessed to have such an amazing employee I will be coming back frequently for his wonderful service hopefully I get him as my waiter every time

This is a very typical, beachy, touristy place. It's right in the heart of the restaurant / bar / shopping district. Open air, a lot of different types of seatings, large menu (but very typical fried bar food). Loved their daiquiris and when I go again I'll try different ones. I do believe you can combine different flavors together. Come as you are. It is a very loud busy place so if you want something more low key this probably isn't the place for you.

This used to be the go to place on a weekend night. The martini selection is so limited now. Not sure what happened, but that is what made it unique. Now it's just an average bar with basics. But they do have great live music and 3.14 pizza is still great. Please upgrade your menu to be awesome again. Nobody like middle of the road. Be extra. You were so good at it.

Came here for drinks and stayed for dinner too!! Awesome service and attention to detail!! A big shout out to Madison the bartender for making excellent rum runners!! Another gentleman made my Tiramisu martini and it was divine!! Cheesesteak and Brussels were delicious. The live band kept the party going with some great hits!

Best chocolate Martin ever!! Great live music! It was fun watching everyone dance.

Great atmosphere, great service from Liz ! Great food and live music.

Saw the Al Denaldi Band, great classic and southern rock here. We all had a great time. Really happy and friendly place. I will definitely go back!! 🤩

For a martini bar in Siesta Key they make the worst martinis in the world and they say that they offer blue cheese olives where do they get their tofu tasting disappointment tasting olives . The experience was to say terrible. I say shame on you for charging $16. 50 got one drink . Totally unfriendly and unhappy staff not do not recommend this place at all .

The food & outdoor area is phenomenal!! We had garlic knots and cocktails while enjoying the live music outside. Our server Alida went above and beyond for us :)

If you are looking for authentic Italian food with a great atmosphere this is the place! We stumbled upon Flavio’s after the sunset in siesta key and were so glad we did. Scratch made dishes, indoor or outdoor dinning, authentic charm.

My sister and I wanted italian our first night in Siesta Key, and Flavio's did not disappoint! Alessandro was very attentive, knowledgeable, and so very kind. The food was absolutely delicious, the atmosphere was perfect, and it was the perfect start to our vacation. We hope to make it back again soon!

The staff was very personable and the food was amazing. Great place to celebrate my husband’s 60th!! Must try is the Pina colada cheese cake.

Stopped in for a late night bite. Felt a bit like we were an inconvenience with the host, but our server was great. Ordered a wood fired pizza & black camel martini. Both were very good and came out pretty quickly. Pizza tasted fresh and well balanced. Also got the tiramisu- not the best I've had, but still decent.

We love coming to Siesta Key! Sadly, we had not tried Flavio’s until tonight. Seven of us went and they were great about accommodating a large party! We all ordered something different and then tried to figure out who had the best meal, which was hard to decide. Our favorites included the Carbinara, Margarita pizza and beef braciole! Don’t skip dessert though, the lemonchello was our favorite and the tiramisu was a close second. Drinks were strong and good! Staff was friendly and knowledgeable… our server was Andy who was really personable and knowledgeable… he helped guide the experience and we were appreciated that! A local suggested we come here and we’re so glad they did! Cheers and Chefs Kiss!!!

We stopped in for dinner last evening. The service was great. Being from Connecticut, we love pizza and will occasionally order it when we are out of state. Usually it’s disappointing, but not last evening. Flavio’s pizza was good! I’d go as far as saying it’s the best pizza we’ve had outside of being home. We will be back, for sure.

The atmosphere is very cool but the service was terrible and the food was mediocre for the cost. Took 30 min to get drinks and we were never asked if we wanted any more. Waters went unfilled and it took almost 2 hours to get our food. We were never asked for coffee or dessert, just if we were ready for the Check. 20% gratuity was added automatically and it wasn’t worth 2!!

Great place to have a dinner or just ice cream/gelato. Many small shops with high prices. Very clean and pretty views. Good amount of restaurants to choose from affordable to $$$. I personally saw at least 6 ice cream places. I do not, why so many. I liked Turkish store with lots of baklava and sweets options. Turkish coffee was amazing. In the circle paid parking, but plenty of free parking just a block or 2 away.

My wife and I live on Fruitville so to go to Saint Armands is a straight shot down the road less than 10 minutes. They offer so many food options and they host various festivals as well like food and arts. It’s right by lido Beach. There are a ton of different world, food options, such as Italian, Colombian, Greek and American. There is also a ton of dessert options like fudge baklava, coffee, and candy all around the circle. It’s a great tourist attraction.

Such a great place to check out if in the area! Lots of shopping, restaurants and also local events. They do a huge Halloween trick or treating that was so fun for the kids and adults! Anything from pumpkin carving, candy and decor to Turkish coffee! Highly recommend checking out and supporting the local!

One of my favorite areas! Such an easy walk to the beach. Amazing shops and restaurant. Fun art festival we stumbled across one weekend. So much character,

Lots of posh boutiques, restaurants and a nice feel throughout the area. However, don’t be surprised by the panhandling and a couple of homeless who do ask for money. Some beach type souvenir shops were also present as well.

Really nice to walk around and very vibrant atmosphere especially in the evening. The town comes alive and people having good time. We love to come here every year for a couple of weeks. Lots of choices for Shopping around and restaurants. Coming from Chicago, the atmosphere is great here, we also love the beach and many other places in Sarasota! We are even considering to get a place here in the future if the opportunity presents itself. Come here to visit at least one time and you'll not be disappointed.

Beautiful area. Plenty of shops and places to grab a bite to eat. Definitely something there for everyone

Very nice aquarium! Loved the renovation. The food court had an excellent range of food options. The manatee, penguins and otters were my kid's favorite.

I had a really great time at this aquarium, and I definitely would come again. There are two main buildings, the building with fish and other attractions like a preserved giant squid and a virtual reality experience, and a building with mammals like manatees and turtles. Once you pay for a ticket, you can enter both of these buildings. I suggest starting at the main building, and when you finish, follow the path marked with paintings of fish, and you can find your way to the mammal building. There's also a bird sanctuary, which is free entry. You can spend a decent amount of time there, so if you don't want to spend any money, it's a great option. This place is great for anyone of any age, and the elevators for accessibility make it a very open experience for anyone of any demographic. I highly recommend this place if you want to learn about marine life or just enjoy your day viewing interesting sea creatures.

Super cute little aquarium, I heard they're expanding recently as well? (I went a few years ago). Have a focus on sea turtles and rescue/rehabilitation of them. Can also see dolphins, manatees, a variety of fish and marine life, and a VERY NICE otter exhibit, the otters have a nice waterfall, clear clean water and lots of toys!

I’m very happy to know they are moving to newer and nicer / larger building soon! This will be amazing for them since you always have to walk to the building across the street. People are so friendly and so nice, we Love the people working and volunteering here! There was an older gentleman who took the time to explain to us how their giant squid ( found dead and now being preserved ) came to the facility. He was an amazing story telling and so knowledgeable about these creatures! We can’t wait to come back but now to the new facilities!

Was hoping to see the new aquarium. However, this one open til July 6th. It is inside and out and allows us to see some amazing sea life. Worth a visit. However, the new place should be awesome. This takes a good 2 1/2 to 3 hours. Does have a café.

Aquarium and marine animal rescue were great. Not crowded on a June afternoon, and docents were terrific. We used our hometown zoo membership to help get a discounted ticket price. We arrived around 3, but wish we had had more time to read about everything and check out the bird rescue, which closed at 4:30, too.

We took our grandchildren here during a vacation. We enjoyed the educational experience. It is kid friendly and a great place for them to explore the wonders of the sea. Staff are knowledgeable and approachable. They enjoy educating the visitors, especially the children. There are hands-on activities for the littles. It is not overwhelming big, the perfect size for the children. The bird sanctuary and manatees are a short walk and worth it.

Loved this clean, beautiful beach! Amenities like food, drinks, and ice cream make it easy to relax, plus restrooms, showers, and changing rooms. Super easy trip from downtown Sarasota on the free trolley.

This beach is beautiful, white sand, not crowded, clean. I did not see a lot of parking available. The town is pretty close, there’s local trolleys and such to help you get around. The sunsets are my favorite.

Lido Key Beach is one of the best beaches in Sarasota, Florida! The soft white sand, clear turquoise water, and relaxed atmosphere make it a perfect spot for a beach day. It’s less crowded than Siesta Key but just as beautiful—ideal for swimming, sunbathing, or taking long walks along the shore. There’s convenient beach access, clean restrooms, and free parking, which is a huge plus. Lido Beach is also close to St. Armands Circle, so grabbing lunch or shopping after the beach is super easy. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly beaches near Sarasota, a romantic sunset spot, or just a peaceful place to unwind, Lido Key Beach checks all the boxes. Highly recommend!

Lido beach is super peaceful and less crowded than the other beaches in the area! We enjoyed the white sand and blue water, the shops that were nearby and the parking was easy to find and free! Very kid friendly, family friendly and a nice place to unwind.

Nice beach, sometimes it's hard to find parking, but lots are free, paid parking on the street, there is a grill and bathrooms

Beautiful beach I feel like a lot of people will compare the beach to siesta key the good thing about this beach is that it is not always overcrowded like siesta key, it is easier to find parking and there’s multiple entrances. Some entrances are closer to the food court, others It will be a further walk, The food area is called lido grill with good quality food and a nice bathroom area. The water is clear/ light green color, sand is white a little shelly but beautiful, clean beach not usually too overpacked. I even came here during the Christmas and holiday time, and it was not too bad. Nothing compared to how crammed siesta key beach is, also holiday parking is free here and they have parking along the street as well as a parking area that can sometimes be free or low cost. Also, for those who might need wheelchair accessibility, there is not a flat pad to get one to the beach on a regular wheelchair, but there is a flat area by the water that I saw individuals with motorized wheelchairs for the beach that they were using on the flat area by the water.

Beautiful Beach, not way too busy; lots of parking but better come in early. Bathrooms available, food and beverages are available for purchase.

My go-to place for my special occasions. The view from the dining room on the second floor is spectacular! And while the food is not, the service and the atmosphere are always top notch. Our waitperson, Robert, added a special dimension to our most recent experience : joyful, enthusiastic and always helpful and considerate. As pescatarians/vegetarians, we three have several dietary limitations, and Robert was on top of that, careful to inform us of any ingredients that might be a problem for any of us. The food is okay, not nearly as spectacular as the view, however. Marina Jack makes you feel welcome and valued as a customer. I appreciated the email after we got home, but I would have appreciated it more, if it contained a link to this feedback page. Just a little thing.

Stopped by for a 1st visit. Our waiter Matt was spot on with good suggestions, service and a friendly personality. We ordered the grouper sandwich and Thai chx sliders. Both delicious. We sat inside by the windows but there are two outside dining areas. This looks like a fun place to come with family or friends. They have banquet facilities upstairs. Great marina views. Would come again for sure!

The food was very delicious and fresh. The staff was very attentive and I really enjoyed being surrounded by yachts. There are some seagulls around, but they are easily distracted and you can shoo them away. It is a little pricey, but is worth with the atmosphere.

Fantastic place! Oysters Rockefeller was to die for! Caesar salad with mahi-mahi was perfect, hubs had a Caesar with grouper and loved it also. Such a beautiful setting, gorgeous view of the water and yachts. We took a stroll around on the docks and enjoyed the beautiful sights. We got there just before it opened - that's why it's empty in all my photos. The place was busy by 11:15

Cute restaurant, nice view, good service. We got a coconut margarita that was the BEST marg I’ve ever had in my entire life! Caesar salad was good and key lime pie. Sliders were OK.

We just spent 4 nights at the new Transient Docks, what a fantastic stay!!! Due to a front, we had to delay our planned arrival by several days, the staff was very accommodating and moved our reservation to our new requested dates. Upon approach to the marina we were quickly given our slip assignment and met at the slip by one of the dock hands, Drew. He was extremely helpful with the lines and even hooked up our shore power! The icing on the cake was when Savannah Biggert, Assistant General Manager, showed up with a bouquet of flowers and a Happy Anniversary card. I had mentioned to Savannah that we were coming down to celebrate our anniversary when we had made reservations a couple weeks before. She truly sets the bar high!! We absolutely recommend Marina Jack and will certainly be back!!! Scott and Mary Wheeler MV Salt Wife

Came for lunch, unfortunately we had to eat inside due to unexpected torrential rainfall. Atmosphere was OK - not sure we would have enjoyed it if it was much more crowded though. Food was good - all of our meals were prepared well.

So much fun at this club. They had a live band who were really good. And a dj later who was just as equally good. Service was quick and friendly and mixed drinks tasted good. Atmosphere was nice too and most were on the dance floor. I would definitely go back for sure.

This is hands down one of the best seafood restaurants I’ve ever been to! The food was fresh, flavorful, and cooked perfectly — you can really taste the quality in every bite. The atmosphere was welcoming and relaxing, and the staff was friendly, attentive, and made sure we had a great dining experience. From the appetizers to the main dishes, everything was delicious. I will definitely be coming back and highly recommend this spot to any seafood lover!”

My husband and I were in town for a procedure this week. I was CRAVING a seafood boil so I researched and kept going back to the beach club! When we got there we were blown away with the atmosphere and the generous smiles!! Sean (i think that is how you spell it) was great and super attentive to our needs along with our waitress! She never let a drink go empty and always checked on us! The boil was one of the best I have ever had!!

Such an attentive manager, Sean gave genuine hospitality. You hardly come across that nowadays. Great service by our waitress being on top of it all with so much grace and dedication. Be back soon!

Great spot located centrally near plenty of other bars, restaurants and shops. Just a block off the beach. Friendly staff and great service

Went to their sister store across the street and the host Cindy was very bothered when we said that this location turned us away since the kitchen closed soon and so she went over to vouch for us and explained they simply didn’t have the staff to accommodate our large party. We came back the next day for dinner with an even larger party and the same host Cindy and the manager Cody got us right in and the whole establishment took amazing care of us on top of having great drinks and food. Highly recommend this spot the staff go out of their way to take care of you.

Walking by the Beach club around 4pm it just so happened that a bird pooped in my hair on the walk by. I stopped in to clean up and upon exit, Sean handed me a tequila shot and said “you know bird poop is good luck”. It was an unexpected start to an awesome night. He did not have to entertain me nor did his employees need to let him know. This is a place that is looking to build its customer base genuinely. Definitely recommend! :) thank you!!

This was my first time trying this. We saw this place walking around the village and wanted to give it a try after viewing the menu. They have a great variety of tacos. We got mahi, shrimp, and tuna tacos. We also had an order of the smashed burger and fries… both were great! The tacos were enjoyed with the complementary rice and beans but I have had better at other Mexican places. The place is well located and the service was fine. Prices were good. Overall, it’s a nice place to go if you’re looking for a tasty spot in the village!

Our server was Kameron and he was fantastic! I am a vegetarian and he got the kitchen to make a special meat-free version of the nachos. Apparently the restaurant has two different types of tortilla chips. I didn't even know that, but Kameron brought them both out for me to try before he put in the order. The nachos were really good, the service was phenomenal, and they had a good selection of beers too (I got a hazy IPA). On top of that, the live band was great. We had a wonderful night.

Decent food for a busy strip restaurant but not authentic. The drinks were great though. We were surprised to see they charge for chips & salsa. They live music was a good touch.

Great casual spot for tacos and local eats right on the main strip and not too far from the beach. Started with the house margarita and got a half Tajin and half salt rim. tasty for sure but too much orange juice for my liking so it was almost like a different drink entirely. All three tacos we got were tasty but the tone poke was the standout. Rice and beans were ample and super tasty. Blackened grouper sandwich was delicious but didn’t care for the sweet potato fries as they were tossed in some sort of sugar. Way too sweet as a side. Server very attentive and friendly. Fun spot for sure.

Short walk from Siesta Key Beach. Indoor/outdoor with live music. Good food. Came here after looking over the menu and reviews. Service may have been a 1 off, but we were seated and left there for a good 10 min watching others get seated and eventually served. It seemed like they either had the bus boy take care of us, or he was from the other side of the restaurant. Drinks weren't refilled, slow all around, drink orders weren't put in. Will not return.

Came here after checking out a few options in the area. This is a popular spot that provides fun music while you dine. We ordered drinks that included a margarita, which I was told was "great!" We also ordered nachos, which were not as hot as I preferred and they were okay. However, when our main courses came out to the table we were very happy. My partner got the Chicken Bowl and she loved it. When I took a bite of it - I thought the flavors were good and I recommend it too. The biggest thing is that my main meal hit my side of the table. FYI - I have a habit of seeking out things on menu6 that I have never tried before and on this night it was a great success. The Birria Burger is positively AMAZING! The first bite I took was just as the burger was presented on the plate; respectfully, I was not entirely sure what to think of it at first but that's not to suggest that it was bad or disappointing. Then I dipped it in the accompanying sauce where it felt like the heavens opened up and the angels revealed a culinary party in my mouth! Try to imagine a next level chilli cheese burger and that somewhat comes close to this fantastic sandwich. Honestly, my only complaint about this burger was that I was too full and couldn't make way to order a second one. Finally, my partner finished the meal with a strawberry and jalapeno margarita, which she also loved the combination of sweet, sour, and spicy all at once. I definitely recommend giving this place a try.

Nice out door seating and with a band playing island music. Service was quick and was not typical cheap beach food. Not the best food ever but certainly better beach food that I have had. Mostly Mexican and sandwiches here. Reasonable price for food and drinks for a tourist area. Margarita was tasty except they put OJ on all of their margs so ask without it.

QUALITY! This place is amazing. So many things done table side. We had the moho pork and the pasta with seafood in it. We also got table sides sangria. All the staff are very well trained. I can't wait to go back.

The atmosphere was great, the food was amazing, and the service was top-notch. It was not as expensive as I would have thought. The portions are generous, and we were all full and got leftovers for the next day. It was my first time and I was celebrating my birthday. It was worth it! 🥳🎂 Food, Service, Birthday, Celebration, Leftovers, Atmosphere. #Restaurant #BirthdayDinner #Foodie

Always love the Columbia Restaurant. This was my first time to this particular one. Being on St. Armands Circle was a bonus but nothing compares to the ambience of the original in Ybor City. Always begin with the fresh, warm, homemade crusty Cuban bread! Then onto the absolutely delicious 1905 salad. This is a MUST! From there you can't go wrong with almost any entree. I had my favorite, the Lechon Asado "1905". My date had the Palomilla. Everything was yummy! They offer scrumptious desserts as well. We were way too full. Be sure and stop in for lunch or dinner next time you are strolling the Circle.

Wife chose this spot while we were in Sarasota for one of my VA appointments. Server recommended the Half and Half. Half Cuban sandwich and half 1905 salad. So wife and I got that, came with a side of Cuban bread with butter for both of us. Food: Great. Cuban was great. Salad made at table side (Nice touch), and was great as well. Bread is not too heavy, perfect. Service: Excellent. We were checked up on more than once. Drinks refilled. Local recommendations. Atmosphere/ambiance: Great, vibrant, love the blue. Inside and outside seatings. Price: Really decent considering the location and surrounding restaurants. Would recommend.

I am a traveler who has visited many places and loves to explore different cuisines around the world. I’ve been to Spain and Mexico and tried a variety of dishes, but I have never had such an unfortunate dining experience until now. I first learned about the historic 1905 restaurant while in Tampa. There, I only managed to step inside, admire the interiors, and feel the atmosphere. It was grand and beautiful inside, almost like a museum, and extremely popular. That gave me the impression that dining there would be something truly special. Yesterday, my husband and I had dinner at their Sarasota location. The outdoor seating was cozy, surrounded by flowers, and the mood was excellent. I was ready for a gastronomic experience, especially since the menu is presented like an old book with references to the restaurant’s history and its dishes. However, I missed having colored photos to see and appreciate the aesthetic appeal of the food before ordering. The Spanish bean soup was decent, though too salty for my taste. Then came the long-awaited Grouper Alicante. Its appearance immediately disappointed me—had I seen a photo beforehand, I would never have chosen such an unappealing, shapeless mass. The taste was even worse: the sauce was so salty I had to keep drinking water, and it left a heavy aftertaste. Neither the almonds nor the breaded eggplant, which I usually adore, could save the poor fish fillet buried under this dark lava of sauce. I was very hungry and tried to pick at the fish, but I couldn’t find the praised flavor or any enjoyment. I was terribly upset and thought perhaps another dish might have been better for me. My husband ordered the original 1905 salad. It was fascinating to watch it being prepared and seasoned in a large bowl as part of a gastro-show. Yet again, the dressing was too heavy for my taste, and the shrimp were very salty. I appreciated the impressive presentation and serving style, but the flavor did not appeal to me. Since the place is considered authentic and iconic, I didn’t want to leave with only disappointment. I gave the traditional flan a chance—and what a miracle! It was magnificent. I thought to myself, I would have gladly eaten five flans for the price of that one unpleasant grouper dish buried under the dark lava of history. Overall, my mood stayed positive because, despite the failed culinary experience, I enjoyed the company of my husband and the charming, attentive waiter Max, who tried his best to make our evening special. That saved us from complete disappointment. At home, I looked at the menu again but felt uncertain—I fear that whatever I choose next time may not please me. For this reason, I will not recommend this cuisine to my friends, so they can avoid the same disappointment.

My family and I ate here for lunch and we loved it. The food is delicious & fresh with a friendly yet busy atmosphere. Make sure to bring your appetite because they have hearty portions. They have a really delicious strawberry daiquiri that is worth trying! It's in the heart of St Armonds circle, you can enjoy a stroll after eating & check out the other shops. I would definitely go back again.

I have been to this location three times in the last 6 months. The service standards are very high and I say this because it is an area where a majority of the guests are in town on vacation or holiday visiting the restaurant and shops in the circle. The staff has clean neat and very well kept uniforms. The restaurant, bathrooms and patio are very clean. Space between tables makes the room very comfortable. The food is excellent. Try the salad. Save room for dessert. If you like a cocktail or two try something you never thought you would try. I promise you will enjoy it.

This was one of the best restaurants we ate at. Everything was great. The food was above average!! The Service was fantastic!! Several of the workers stopped and talked to us. We set on the deck overlooking the water. This is a must if you are near the area. The sunset on the water is a must see.

What an incredible meal! The Old Salty Dog is always a must-visit whenever we're in Florida, and this trip was no exception. We finally tried the loaded Old Salty Dog, and I deeply regret not ordering it sooner. It absolutely lives up to the hype and is a game-changer. ​The atmosphere was perfect. We sat right by the water, which made for a beautiful and relaxing experience. The kids had a blast too, enjoying their meals along with a delicious strawberry smoothie. They also loved the freebie that came with their food and were so excited to take it home. ​On top of that, the peel and eat shrimp were out of this world—fresh, flavorful, and cooked perfectly. The staff was also incredibly friendly and attentive, which made the experience even better. We'll be back again and again!

We had a stunning lunch here. Everything was super fresh and crisp. Neat lobster roll I’ve had in a long time and their sweet potato fries were delicious. Service was friendly and super attentive. Robbie was so sweet and great at serving us. We saw a manatee swimming right by us and lots of fish, jelly fish and dolphins in the distance. Amazing location for the perfect relaxing lunch on the water.

We absolutely love this Old Salty Dog location near St. Armands Circle in Sarasota. The restaurant is waterfront and right next to a marina/boat yard and marine center. There are always boats being launched, refueling, or just cruising by. On a sunny day, it is a perfect waterfront spot in Sarasota to boat watch. The Pelicans are always swooping for fish and putting on a show for restaurant guests. You can also occasionally see jelly fish, we just saw a couple hundred swimming by on our last visit. Rain or shine, Old Salty Dog is always worth a visit. The patio gets the perfect amount of sun on a sunny day with light sun shades, a gulf breeze, and the perfect sunset back drop. On rainy days, you might have to wait a minute for an inside table or seat at the bar because they stay busy, but it is worth the wait. As the name implies, they are known for their deep fried hot dogs and dog bites which are always a favorite. The burgers also hit the spot for a change up and the seafood doesn’t disappoint. If you’re looking for a frozen drink on a hot day, a delicious rum runner, or just a beer they have something for everyone. The parking lot gets full pretty quick with limited spaces while they are working on the building next door, but additional lots are across the street and a short 2 minute walk. We’d highly recommend Old Salty Dog for a casual waterfront restaurant in Sarasota with good food, good drinks, and the ability to come in your swim suit by boat or car.

You cannot beat food right by the water. We both enjoyed a grouper sandwich, mine was blackened. My wife's was fried in a tempura like beer batter. Both were absolutely delicious, shared some regular fries and some sweet potato fries. The service was quick, there were a couple of local beers on tap. And whatever you do, do not skip the key lime pie!

If you want the beach vibe while eating dinner this is the place for it. If you imagine having a drink with the weather breeze blowing on you then look no further. Sitting there while a boat floats by, a pelican lands 10 ft from you, and seeing a rainbow was amazing. The food wasn't amazing, but the atmosphere makes up for it. I got a hamburger and an order of the Salty dog nuggets. I had a wonderful time eating here.

After a day of apartment hunting we were hungry and The Old Salty Dog was right on our route and super convenient. We got some mozzarella sticks, burger with fries and the hotdog bites. Not super excited about the hog dog bites Sadly but we were so hungry it served a purpose. The staff was super friendly and the atmosphere was perfect to end the day. I would love to stop back when I come back to the area.

We hit Owens Fish Camp during our recent vacation and it did not disappoint. While not on the water, the ambience, covered by trees and nature while tucked away near downtown, was great. We sat outside on a warm summer night. The service was really good. We had everything we needed and yet the servers weren’t intrusive. It was our first time to Owens and they gave great recommendations on what to try. We started with the Gumbo and Crab Cake appetizers. Both were flavorful and the crab cake was over stuffed with breading. For entrees we went with Shrimp Baskets & the Fresh Catch plates with Scamp and Grouper with Butter sauces. The fresh was cooked perfectly (meaning not over) and you could taste the freshness. We ended up splitting a Key Lime Pie for dessert. Everything went well and we will certainly be back on our next trip. There’s also a mercantile shop connected to the restaurant to kill time while waiting for a table. We were there mid week and there wasn’t live music but next time we’ll try on a weekend to hear some tunes. All in all, highly recommend Owens Fish Camp for a great all-around dining experience.

Sooo Owen’s Fish Camp was on my list to try when visiting Sarasota and I’m glad we made it! My mom loves seafood, so whenever she visits me, we make it a point to check out a seafood spot. Walking up, you definitely get those fish camp, local vibes. We arrived “early” and it was already packed, but luckily found some seating. Our waitress was patient and helped guide us through the menu. The decor matched the theme perfectly, and outside they had a big backyard area with live music and another bar. There’s also a store connected to the restaurant with different items to browse. We truly enjoyed our food, left stuffed and sleepy! My only feedback is that the dishes were a little heavy on the sodium. The seasoning was good, but at times the salt was noticeable. It didn’t ruin anything, just something that stood out. If you’re in the area, this is definitely a spot not to miss! What was ordered: Oysters Rockefeller w/ Crab, Spinach & Hollandaise = delicious Hot Crab Dip = very good & loved the Ritz crackers pairing Naked Fish w/ Beans & Collards = flavorful, but a bit too salty Cornmeal Crusted Catfish w/ Spicy Collards, Grits & Brown Butter = fish fried perfectly, collards salty, but grits were spot on

Owens Burns Court will not take reservations and they only seat full parties - I knew that going in. We had a large group that I was happy to seat at different tables. Outdoors has larger tables but it was darn hot when we went. 6 of us showed up - got a table right away at 5pm on a Monday. Little bit later 5 more showed up and luckily got a table right next to the other one! Then our last 2 stragglers arrived as they were driving from further away and they got seated right near us in the bar high tops area. Service was wonderful - Brandi was awesome, front of house were ingenious in suggesting the high tops at the bar so we could all be close by. Food came out super fast and hot. Everyone was served at each table together. We were trying to make a 6:30pm movie at Burns Cinema next door and had plenty of time to move our cars and get tickets. Everyone enjoyed their food - Corvina, Scamp, Trout, Crab Cake, Shrimp Salad, Jambalaya, so much more - all was perfect - and always fun. Music starts at 5:30pm and the outdoors area is super cute, when it's a wee bit cooler.

My mother & I came and sat at the bar. It was wonderful service. Both bartenders were so amazing and sweet. The fish special which was scamp, was the best grouper I have ever had. My mom even said it tasted like lobster. She loved the succotash. My salad was incredible! The atmosphere is amazing & they had live music & food out back while you wait for your table!

The hype is real. No reservations and no wait list as stated on google maps. Went on Sat night about 615p and waited about 40 min. Was directed to the backyard which served some small bites. Had grilled oysters which were great. had some house cocktails whiskey lemonade and bourbon tea which were not bad. Plenty of seats with a live performer. Met 'Beaver' who said he was the OG. He had taken our orders at the grill/drinks area and came around when it got less busy there asking if we needed anything. He gave us some tips on what to order and he was spot on. The best thing was the chicken fried lobster tails. Should have ordered 2 orders. The garlic snails were also good. Nice sauce served over mashed potatoes, all coming in a bowl. Had peel n eat shrimp. tasty but didn't realize it was cold. Would have been great warm. Should not have gotten the hot crab dip. Kinda fishy tasting and wasn't that good. I did like the ritz crackers. I ordered the low country boil for 2. Was quite good. Gave you a good amount of shrimp. Most of the clamshells were empty and only could find a few lying around. Mussels just ok. potatoes were very good. I should have gotten the order of crab legs by itself and also something else. Gumbo was good. No okra tho. clam chowda was great. My son had jambalaya, good but not as good as New Orleans. His fiancee had pasta that was great. Wife had Scamp grouper that was excellent. Server Claudia was very nice. Kind of quiet. And Beaver came around again! Asked how the food was. I told him everything was great except the Crab dip. He said, "I never told you to get that" He was great and added to our wonderful evening. I will definitely tell my friends and come back next time i'm in town.

Owen's was recommended by a friend who travels to Sarasota often. The fish was great along with the sides...perfection. I sat at the bar. Made quick friends from other Midwestern parts! Margarita tasted like key like pie. I had the Wahoo-blackened with green tomato salsa, cheesy grits and collard greens. Every bite...yumm!!

Super cool little spot, was referred to us by Joe at Tommy Bahamma. Great recommendation, service, drinks and food are good! I'm a non seafood guy and the burger and fries were 🔥 For anyone wondering (non seafood people looking to go with seafood people 😆 ) the joint didn't smell fishy and the fries didn't have a fishy taste either (seems like they have separate fryers (as any establishment should) )✌🏽

Great time..even just as a rider. They included me in the pics with my friends as well! Cap Max and Yanni are amazing. Will definitely bring my kids with next time. Thank you!

We had a party of 6, 4 generations from 6-72, we all flew and all enjoyed it! Yanni was awesome, very friendly and talkative, explained everything well and was thorough with what to expect even in the event of a emergency which thankfully wasn't needed, answered questions, we seen several dolphins and a sea turtle on our flight/boat ride and will definitely come back for another ride with the rest of the family.

Great experience, very easy to go up and come back down. Crew was incredibly nice and professional. Highly recommend!!

Such a peaceful and unique experience! I was nervous to try, but so glad my husband convinced me to go parasailing. Our group had all ages: 5 to 55+. Omar & Yanni are a hoot and a half! Excellent guides; we had a lot of fun while feeling very safe. 10/10 would recommend. If you’re on the fence, do it!!

Yanni and Max are so fun! This trip was the best. My husband and I brought the kids and the kids got 2 trips up while my husband and I switched out. Highly recommended!

The absolute most fun experience! I took my 11 year old son and we laughed and smiled and thoroughly enjoyed ourselves the entire time. The crew was amazing and it set them apart from other companies. We had a little hiccup with our picture package we had purchased with our booking and rather than simply refund the money of the package they sent us back up to get those perfect in-air pics with the clouds behind us high in the sky so that we can have the memories forever. I am so incredibly thankful that they went above and beyond to help with this. It is so much more than what they would have “had” to do to make it right and really made a world of difference to me. If I could give them 10 stars, I would!

We had a great time on Air Force One! Thank you to captain mark and Yanni for making it a fun ride! Saw dolphins and a sea turtle. Will ride again.

An absolutely outstanding experience! Captain Chad was wonderful. Our group was small (5 of us) so we boarded a small pontoon and it really felt like a private charter. We opted for the VIP tickets & boy did we feel special. Plenty of drinks flowed as we hung out on the sandbar & watched dolphins play all around us. Captain Chad was very knowledgable about the area homes, the wildlife, the waterways & even recommended some great Resturant’s. We had a truly relaxing and picture perfect day! Highly recommend SK Watersports. We plan to book again & again when we return to Siesta Key.

We had an amazing time on the dolphin sunset cruise with Lieutenant Dan and Kyle! They were very friendly, knowledgeable and made our trip so fun! We upgraded to the drinks on board, beer and wine for the adults, soda, juice and chips for the kids. We saw lots of dolphins and they took us to the perfect spot to enjoy the amazing sunset! We live locally and have done several boat trips, we would definitely do this one again. They really prioritize safety, fun and great customer service!

Had an incredible time! Got to see a pod of dolphins and a beautiful sunset. Captain Chad was knowledgeable and welcoming. It was our first time in Siesta Key and it was such a great way to see the area and the wildlife.

The experience was great. Chad and Cory were amazing. They took great care of all the guests. They were knowledgeable and friendly. I would give more stars if I could. We went back to go para-sailing. Bryan and Ty did a great job. They took great pictures and made the experience memorable.

Today was the amazing! We saw dolphins and a manatee! Chad and Corey were awesome! What a great way to spend the afternoon! I highly recommend!

Both Chad & Corie were amazing during our sunset dolphin tour. I would highly recommend this to anyone especially if these two are your hosts!! We had an amazing time & will come back again when we are back in town.

I got to join on the 10am trip on September 21st, and enjoyed the experience so much! I was fortunate to get to see dolphins as we were leaving the cove and a sea turtle while in the air! Being so high up was definitely intimidating, but after understanding the safety procedures I felt very comfortable and confident when going into the air. I unfortunately do not recall the gentlemen who helped during the expedition, but they were both extremely knowledgable and skilled with the who process. As I was sitting in the air, I felt very secure, (think a safety harness swing). And although you are extremely high up, you don't feel like you are moving particularly fast. I highly recommend the experience if you can stomach the height! (I still don't think I will ever sky dive though haha). I also added the photo package to my experience, so I was able to get some great pics from the boats view! Their check-in office had some waterproof phone pouches available if you want to take your phone up with you. They also offer a Go-Pro option if you would rather, (I opted to do so and strapped it to my lifejacket, so I was able to get some pics from my phone).

Delicious grouper tacos. The best way to get grouper without overlaying for sides. Excellent service. I sat at the bar and Megan took top notch service for me. Ambience is fantastic too. You can sit either inside or outside. I sat outside at first to soak up some sun, and then moved inside to soak up some AC and live music. I’ll be back for HH oysters.

I always love coming back to this place, it's really nice, and every time I go, even if I'm not hungry, I order the calamari. I don't know if I do it out of habit, but I love them. I also tried the oysters, and even some cooked oysters (I don't remember the name because I didn't order them myself, I think they had cheese on them) and, man, those were good too! They often have live music, which makes everything more magical.

Such a fun spot. Right off main stretch with live music. Didnt have drinks as we came in after a beach day but food was delicious. Blue cheese and bacon oysters... best oysters I've had yet. You can tell its been around for decades as the inside is covered in dollar bills and memorabilia. We will come back when we are in the areas for sure.

Lunch was good, nothing to write home about or suggest to others. The cocktails ($12-$15) were good, no cheap sugary mixes. The oysters Rockefeller were meh, just spinache, barely any crispy bread crumps, almost no cheese and very little sauce. The grouper bites were really good. The tuna and avocado BLT was also very good. Cajun Shrimp po'boy had no Cajun seasoning. Service started out good but then she would forget what we asked for and just stood up at the host stand. Wouldn't complain of we went back but would try a different restaurant next time I'm on the area.

Great local bar. Good food, a little pricey though. Great staff. Gets crowded because it's small. Always has a great band playing! Drink selection was limited on seltzers though which I prefer

For an oyster bar, we found it disappointing. The service was great, the food was ok. Grouper bites were good, the oysters not so much. The crab cakes were so so. Quesada’s were good. They were filled with cheese and veggies and didn’t dry out.

Definitely worth the wait! You gotta go for their oyster happy hour! There’s something for everyone on the menu! Highly recommend, oh and a bring a dollar bill when you go!

Lobster bisque is dah bomb! Had steamed clams, mussels - the garlic butter sauce is wonderful! Corn bread is outstanding. Not a full bar, but wine and beer selection fine. Micheal was our server - very attentive and personable. We’d eat here again.

We love this beach culture sea shanty of a restaurant. It has tons of atmosphere without a hint of tackiness. The beach food, particularly the hot or cold lobster roll, is a delight. The sides are also delicious. Parking can be a bit of a challenge.

Great food and fresh flavors. The only thing was it’s hard to have a conversation because it’s a bit loud. But hey .. people being loud because they have a great time enjoying the food and being passionate. So I definitely going back there.

Had the Fiery Pasta Dish with Shrimp. The shrimp was large and perfectly cooked. The sauce had a sweet spice to it. I’ve never had a sauce like it but would gladly pick it again.

We had a very small intimate wedding on the beach in siesta key and have eaten at The Lobster Pot three different times already! One of them was right after our wedding and they were able to accommodate 11 of us. The owners Tony and Fran went above and beyond to make sure we had an amazing experience! On that day,our server was Allison and she did such a great job attending to our group and making sure everyone was taken care of! Great job Allison!! The other two servers we had during our other two visits were Bryce and Dominick. Both outstanding and attentive servers with great personalities. Thank you gentleman! This little restaurant is packed with big flavor and great servers. If you haven’t been there, I strongly recommend!! It won’t disappoint!

We enjoyed an incredible dinner here! The Lobster Bisque is WOW good and authentic. Our server, family, was super nice and helpful. We will definitely go back before our visit to the key ends. Congratulations on your upcoming anniversary! We could see why you have been around so long.

I’ve grown up going here since my grandparents lived on the key. It always has the coziest atmosphere that’s inviting and the food is incredible. Service is always top tier too. The lobster bisque (with extra chunks!!) is to die for. The sangria was incredible and I had to have a second glass. I even enjoyed the cornbread at the beginning which was the perfect texture and sweetness. I’ll always be a regular here and would encourage you to make it one of your regular spots too!!

Hospitality goes such a long way here!!! Food was also delicious, not even 10 minutes after ordering, the food was already on our table. What I love best about this place is the patio outside. Sitting between the plants and flowers provides such a tranquil scene. Lots of options on the menus and the sourdough is especially good here.

Cute spot, solid food! It was a good spot to catch up with friends - lively but not too loud for conversation. The food was good and portions perfect. We came on a Sunday at brunch so it seemed very busy but we only had to wait about 15 minutes for a table for 4 luckily.

What a great place to enjoy a casual breakfast in a tropical, garden setting! The sweet potato pancakes were absolutely delicious and satisfying! The El Mariachi omelette with chorizo was savory with vibrant with the pops acidity from the tomatoes and onions. The coffee was hot and bold while the Bloody Mary was spicy and scrumptious.

We decided to stop by for breakfast on a weekday morning. The food is fantastic! We went for Eggs Benedict and an Omelette - we would definitely consider them again. The service was great! We loved sitting outside and taking in the fresh air while savoring the meal. We would certainly consider coming here again.

Came here two days in a row it was so good! Everything was super fresh and delicious - had a Benedict one day and omelette the next and would definitely recommend. Had great service and fun beach vibes :)

I rarely give an "all out" review but I can see why this place is top of the list for breakfast here in Siesta Key. The menu isn't too big, and the food comes out quickly. The ingredients in/on my "Bikini Bagel" were fresh and well-balanced. Which I greatly appreciated. The avocado on my dish was cut fresh —for my dish. The fig was for sure my favorite —thickly sliced and placed atop the avocado. I was all for it. We're on a quick pass through on our way to Fort Myers, so we needed something quick. What a treat! Totally unexpected to find such good eats. The price is fair for the portions and the vibe outside is a must.

Such a hidden gem! Do not miss this spot in the village! Amazing food, great coffee, & super quick service! Indoor seating (with AC) or outdoor seating. The staff were all so friendly. We went multiple times during our trip & loved it each time. From breakfast sandwiches, chicken & waffles, oatmeal, biscuits & gravy, shrimp po’ boy wrap. Breakfast or lunch — it’s all amazing!

We were greeted and seated immediately. We ordered the Plantains off the Tapas menu. They were served with crispy cancha (corn nuts), chimichurri, and huancaina sauces. I had the Black Mussels for my entrée and my husband had the Diver Sea Scallops. I also ordered a side of Truffle Fries because why not?! Every single dish was delicious!! Our waitress, Monica, was attentive, knowledgeable, warm, and friendly! We will definitely request her again if we ever come back this way. 10/10 recommend!!

This place is amazing!!! They’ve got an awesome selection! Also love the indoor and outdoor seating. The food is flavorful, and I loved every dish we picked. The servers were kind, patient and attentive. I’d come back here! Definitely recommend! Love!

I recently visited The Cottage and had a pleasant experience overall. The staff was friendly and attentive. As for the food, it was good. The plating was nice, but the garnishes on several plates looked a bit tired and not as fresh as I would have hoped. That slightly took away from the visual appeal of the meal. It was an okay dining experience. Worth a try if you’re nearby and want a casual bite in a nice setting.

We had eaten here during g our last visit to Siesta Key and really enjoyed it so it was an easy decision to go back again for lunch today. It’s normally too hot to eat outside in Florida restaurants in August but due to the large canopy we were able to do so without getting g too hot - the many fans helped! The staff were so friendly and helpful and we were soon sitting down with drinks trying to decide what to eat from the large menu. It was lunch time so we’re looking at sandwiches, burgers etc - we decided on the grouper sandwich and the seared tuna club sandwich with both of us upgrading to the truffle and Parmesan fries. The food was absolutely great - so tasty and the fries were a revelation! Just about the right quantity for lunch so didn’t have a dessert. Happy to come back

We had an amazing time, food was delicious. Amosphere was super cool and great location, very close to the beach. Will definitely come back. Strongly recommend it!

new fav siesta key restaurant. packed but got immediate seat at the bar. DIVINE lemon lavender martini, created by great bartender joe. mind blowing good flavor in the short rib bites that came out looking like sushi in the best way. truffle fries are a must. husband enjoyed the poke bowl. pricy but soo worth it. will be back.

​My friend and I visited The Cottage multiple times during our week in Siesta Key, and every single time it felt a bit like walking into Cheers. Everyone was genuinely excited to see us. The entire staff was, without a doubt, the friendliest and most personable team we encountered on the Key. A massive shout-out needs to go to Kyle, who was a true standout for "adopting" us and taking such good care of us throughout our visits. ​The curated menu is fantastic. I highly recommend the tuna tacoshimi, the mussels, and the rich, delicious lobster bisque. They were all instant favorites. And for drinks, their mai tai is a must-try. The quality of the food combined with the welcoming atmosphere created by the staff makes this place unforgettable. If you’re looking for great dining and even better hospitality in Siesta Key, you have to stop by The Cottage. We can’t wait to return!

Great stop on our last day at the beach. Happy hour frozen daquiris are a must and a great buy. Try the deck diesel. We just had a few sides this trip, but their onion rings and fries are really good.

View was nice. Drinks were small. Food ok. Hush puppies were under cooked. Our waitress was very good.

We were pleasantly surprised by the food and delicious frozen drinks at this location. You get a view of the sunset if you’re on the upper deck. I got the fish sandwich. It was delicious. He got A chicken sandwich both were very good. But the fries are the star of the show. They’re excellent! Like perfect french fries… Hot crispy and perfectly seasoned yet tender inside. The frozen daiquiris were really yummy. We especially liked the banana. and coffee mixed and the banana and strawberry mixed. Casey was a sweetheart. Good music from the 90s playing.

Decent food, friendly servers, nice to eat out on the deck...famous for a big variety of daiquiris!

I didn't try any food during my visit, however I decided to come here after my visit to Crescent Beach and kill time before my dolphin sunset cruise. I went to the location in Siesta Key Village and wanted to see how different this location is. I loved how there's a upstairs deck and you have a wonderful view of the area, since there were kids upstairs I decided to stay downstairs. Where I met a wonderful staff member (I forgot her name but it was her first day and she was very welcoming). This spot was actually a lot more fun, they have a huge back area, a spinning wheel (I won a free drink) yay!, a nice huge selection of daiquiris. I absolutely loved the giant chair to sit on, it's so much fun for a photo. They also have this cool feature of a machine to make you own magnets and I loved it! I hope to come back, this is one of my favorite spots!

I had the best experience at Daiquiri Deck South Siesta Key, thanks to Gwen! She was so friendly, attentive, and made the whole visit so much fun. You can tell she truly cares about her guests, always smiling, checking in, and making great recommendations. The drinks were amazing and the vibe was perfect. If you stop by, definitely ask for Gwen — she’ll make your visit 10x better!

I came in last week and was so astonished with the service I was given. My server Pricilla was such a ray of sunshine. She was so attentive and super helpful with helping me figure out the happy hour menu. I recommend asking to have her serve you next time you come in!!!

Overall, I had a very good experience. The hostesses and my server, Julie were friendly and attentive. A gentleman, I assume a manager, checked on me once my entree was served. The bread, lobster bisque and grouper were outstanding. The only miss was the bone marrow. It was oily and lacked flavor. I would highly recommend SH to anyone looking for a higher end dining experience in Siesta Key. Cheers!.

Three of us enjoyed our dinner in here , we ordered the seafood platter and 40 ounces steak, seafood is fresh, steak we asked for medium well , prefect! Smile service around our table, Valet parking also helps us save a lot of time in this area. Appreciated!

Outstanding place!!! First timer, actually went two nights!!! The staff are amazing, the food is amazing!! I had fillet mignon one night cooked to perfection. The Top sirloin wagyu was unbelievably good on our second visit. Not big on sirloin, this is a must. The management worked with our party of six to get us in on a last minute decision on a Friday. I have eaten steaks at some of the top rated in the country, hands down one of the best!!!

Amazing! Perfect for an upscale dinner or celebration. The atomsphere is elegant but casual. Very comfortable Everything we had was incredible. Our server Derek was great- efficient, personable and made excellent recommendations. Pictured : the seafoam margarita (I don’t know how to describe this other than the name being perfect for the drink.. )topped with lime/ eggwhite foam and siesta key harvested sea salt 10/10 Wagyu tartare with bone marrow grenota 40 oz Porterhouse with Gorgonzola crust - INCREDIBLE! And of course, when in Rome… key lime pie. So yummy Will return on my next trip to siesta key :)

To start with, Derek was our server who delivered with flair and the utmost professionalism I haven’t witnessed in a long time. Derek asked for our names and engaged in conversation that was pleasant and legitimate. A thorough explanation of menu items and the background to the Chefs vision. We started with colossal shrimp and crab cake as appetizers to which both were fantastic. We then entered into our main course of wet aged NY strip steaks that were both tender and delicious. A complimentary dessert was provided as Derek admitted me dropped a small, bite size morsel of steak. The ambience, food and service was IMHO, stellar. The manager, Thai, even came by our table and engaged with us which sealed the deal. We will definitely by coming back for more food adventures.

Absolutely fantastic experience! The waiter was awesome & the manager stopped by our table to say happy birthday. We would definitely recommend this place for your special occasion date night!

Top notch service every time my husband and I come here. The bleu cheese crust is unlike any other, and the cocktails are delicious! We make sure to reserve a table weeks in advance before our annual trip and it’s always worth it.

I visited this place a while ago, and overall, it was a great experience. The service was fantastic—staff were attentive, friendly, and quick to accommodate our needs. The atmosphere was pleasant, with a relaxed vibe that made the meal even more enjoyable. As for the food, everything we tried was delicious. The sushi was fresh and beautifully presented, but the rice could have been a bit more flavorful. That said, it didn’t detract too much from the meal as the rest of the ingredients were spot on. If you’re looking for solid sushi and excellent service, I’d definitely recommend this place!

Had a dinner there yesterday and was very happy with food and service. Golf was our server and he was extremely nice making this experience even more enjoyable! Best Thai food I had so far!🥲❤️💫 (Green curry is a must try)

GO HERE!!! When booking our reservation, one of our friends told the restaurant that we were all celebrating our engagement and they made the night sooo special for us! Special shoutout to Golf. He was wonderful and brought so much joy and laughter to our evening! The food and drinks were all incredible as well! Will definitely be back!!! 🥰

I normally don’t leave negative reviews, and I want to start by saying the staff we interacted with were pretty kind. We came to this restaurant specifically for the DJ event we saw online, but unfortunately, our experience was extremely disappointing. As soon as we walked in, the restaurant reeked of marijuana - it was so strong they had to prop the front door open. Initially, we thought it was one staff member, but we were later told it was coming from the kitchen. Despite contemplating leaving, we stayed because we were hungry and wanted to see the DJ. The food ended up being mediocre, and in hindsight, we should have left immediately. Additionally, the restrooms were shocking - almost every ceiling tile was moldy, and there were spider webs throughout along the ceiling, which raises serious concerns about cleanliness and what’s happening in the kitchen. To top it off, a visibly drunk man came in with his dog off-leash, and the staff allowed the dog to remain inside. Even though the dog was well-behaved, it felt completely inappropriate and unprofessional. Overall, I found the environment unsanitary and unwelcoming. I hope this review is useful to others, and I will not be returning.

The taco and tataki were good. The rolls were alright. Enjoyed the taco and tataki. Will be back to try the thai food.

Absolutely loved this place! The service was fantastic — the staff was so friendly and welcoming, and the food was top-notch. Everything was fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented. Highly recommend if you’re looking for great sushi and great vibes!

Rainbow roll was good. I totally agree with other reviews that the prices don’t really match the quality. The crab Rangoon was the most disappointing dish. It tasted solid but was tiny and probably better to pass on since it was nothing special. Overall it will satisfy a sushi craving but be prepared for a hefty price.

Ophelia’s offers beautiful waterfront dining views in the area. It’s definitely a perfect spot for a sunset dinner or a special occasion. The service was outstanding—attentive, professional, and welcoming from the moment we walked in. Our server made great recommendations and checked in at all the right times. As for the food, it was a little too salty for my taste. I’d still recommend Ophelia’s for the view and the fantastic service. It’s a beautiful spot to unwind with a glass of wine and soak in the atmosphere.

Oh, oh, Ophelia's on the Bay!!! Please darken her door! What a great meal in a beautiful Bayside setting! Outdoor dining at it's finest! Located on beautiful Seista Key, Ophelia's menu has something for everyone! The food is artfully crafted and served with pride by the attentive staff. A big shout-out to our server, Zoli for attending to our every need! Thank you, Zoli! Oysters Rockefeller, lobster bisque... off the chart good! Blue fin tuna was perfectly braised and the scallops were succulent. You'll drop some coin at Ophelia's but it will be worth every dollar! Go there now!

First time and all the food was delicious. from the crab cake to entree. We kinda splurged since it was a special date night. Put a request in for table preference and acommadated us so well. our server was amazing. Professional and not intrusive at all. We will be back

EXTRAORDINARY – An unforgettable experience We visited Ophelia’s on the Bay to celebrate my boyfriend’s birthday and it was truly an amazing experience. From the moment we arrived, the service was outstanding and very attentive. We brought a birthday cake and they welcomed it with no problem, presenting it beautifully at the end of the night. Our waiter even sang Happy Birthday, which made the moment even more special and personal. The food was delicious, high quality, and full of flavor. The atmosphere by the bay is stunning — elegant, romantic, and perfect for a celebration. I especially want to highlight the host, who was fantastic. He made sure we had a wonderful experience and took care of every detail with genuine kindness and professionalism. We will definitely be coming back! Perfect place for a romantic dinner or any special occasion.

We went to Ophelias for our anniversary. It was lovely. I have several food allergies. They were very helpful and I had an amazing fear free meal. Our waiter Bryce was fantastic. We were treated to a complimentary glass of champagne with our delicious gluten free dessert.

My girlfriend chose Ophelia on the Bay for my birthday dinner, and it couldn’t have been more perfect. From the valet greeting to the flawless service, every moment reflected care and precision. The host personally oversaw every detail of the evening, making sure my birthday felt truly special — the kind of attention you only find at Michelin-level restaurants. The Australian Wagyu filet was cooked with mastery — perfectly done yet juicy and tender. The black truffle poivre sauce was divine, rich and balanced, while the creamed spinach was executed with such precision it showed the chef’s commitment to every detail. At Ophelia on the Bay, the service and cuisine align effortlessly, creating an experience worthy of the world’s finest tables. Refined, composed, and memorable — a restaurant that truly understands what fine dining should be.

A great place for a fancy quiet dinner on the water. No loud music, highly trained staff, awesome chef and pastry chef. Don’t forget dessert. They are super delicious and something to see. We had our 43rd wedding anniversary dinner there and it was perfect.

Beautiful place to be. The parking is easy to navigate and there is a small gift shop below the garage. I explored the gardens and there were many butterflies out. There was a little cafe on the property and the women working the counter was very kind. There is a beautiful banyan tree with bridges and things for children to play with like musical instruments. There is a lovely gazebo where it looks as though wedding as held inside with stained glass above which was very pretty. A peaceful place to walk 🌺.

We went to see the orchids and were duly impressed. The display was very nicely done. When my wife and I went to the intriguing exhibit by Rebecca Louise Law unfortunately, being sensitive to fragrances, I could not enjoy the display. We toured the rest of the grounds at a leisurely pace and enjoyed the shade and cool ocean breezes. Absolutely amazing place. The flora is exceptional.

Beautiful way to spend the afternoon! Guided tour was very interesting. Gift shop and Orchids for sale were stunning. We were offered a reduced admission fee due to the museum was closed. Parking garage

So the grounds were beautiful, not up exactly to par with the Naples botanical garden. But a lot of great photo opportunities! The staff, I’m not sure if they are paid or volunteer but they were definitely not very friendly, not rude, but short which I felt was odd given the midday, early afternoon crowd was non existent.

What an amazing experience!!! The orchids were gorgeous and the at show was breathtaking. The ground are well kept and the staff is friendly and willing to answer questions. I had a wonderful time. There was ample benches to rest when I got tired. I'm so impressed!!

Absolutely beautiful gardens! The orchids and bromeliads were outstanding—some of the most stunning displays I’ve ever seen. The entire property is peaceful, well-kept, and perfect for a relaxing stroll. A must-visit!

Absolutely beautiful! I ended up getting an annual pass because I know I will go back. There are beautiful areas to walk around and sit quietly and enjoy the scenery!

Bayfront Park is a charming, scenic, and above all, practical spot. Whether you're here to admire the sunset, enjoy a relaxed picnic, spend time with children, or simply be in the moment, the park offers something for everyone. There’s space for yoga, casual walks, or just sitting quietly and taking in the view. Nearby, you'll find local restaurants, public restrooms, and access to sunset cruises and boat rentals. The city center and main street are also just a short walk away, making it a convenient and enjoyable place to visit. A well-rounded, peaceful location worth stopping by.

Very nice park in town. Great views of the water and of Sarasota. There’s a restaurant/bar as well. Nice paved trails. Definitely a popular location. Dog friendly from what I could see.

I love this place. Is my second time comming. Family friendly, pet friendly. Very clean and welcoming. Loved the restaurant. Gorgeous sunset here! And people here are kind and friendly.. will keep comming is a little far from home. But so worth it.

Amazing Pirate-Themed Playground & Bay Views! (Bayfront Park, Sarasota) ​We had such a fantastic day at Bayfront Park today, especially the incredible playground! I brought my 10-year-old daughter, and she absolutely loved the pirate and sea adventure theme—it's so creative and much more engaging than a standard park. ​Highlights for us: ​Unique Pirate Ship Playground: The shipwreck structure (like the one with the green sea serpent tail!) and the high lookout crow's nest were a huge hit. It really sparks imaginative play. ​Fantastic Shade: The large, sail-like shade structures cover the play area really well, which is essential for a sunny Florida day. ​Beautiful Scenery: The playground is right on Sarasota Bay, and the views are gorgeous! We even got to watch a pelican making a dive (just like in the video!) out on the water. ​Fun Details: I loved the little touches, like the alligator and bobcat statues near the entrance—they add a great local Florida flavor to the design. ​Great for Parents: Plenty of benches for seating, and the overall area felt very clean and well-maintained. ​This park is a must-visit if you're in Sarasota with kids. It offers great play, stunning views, and a unique theme. We can't wait to come back and try the splash pad when the weather is warmer!

Small but lovely waterfront Park in downtown Sarasota. Clean, safe, and great for a short walk after a beach day. There’s a nice playground for kids, yachts at the marina, and O’Leary’s Tiki Bar & Grill nearby for snacks or drinks. The famous dolphin fountain sculpture - “Dolphin Fountain” wasn’t working in October 2025, but sunset views here are beautiful!

This place is really cool. My daughter and I had a great time. The park is clean, the veins are great and if it was warmer out the smash pad would have been a great place to cool off for the kiddo

This park is a hidden gem with a scenic trail that winds around the area, perfect for a relaxing walk. The beautiful banyan trees are truly a highlight, and the park has clean, convenient restrooms. There's even a bar with live music where you can grab a drink and unwind. We caught an unforgettable sunset there—just a short walk from our hotel—and even hopped on a sunset cruise right from the bay. Watching people walk their dogs added a cheerful vibe to the whole experience. I can't wait to come back next time I'm in Sarasota!

For me, I wasn't thrilled with The Barber of Seville but mainly because I don't speak Italian and even though they had the words on a screen they didn't really say all the words when the actors were singing so half the time I had to ask my husband or read between the lines. Just wasn't an enjoyable experience. The venue was beautiful and orchestra was great and even the actors. Had it been in English it would have been so much better.

It was great. The seats were nice and sized so normal Americans can fit in them - so roomy for smaller folks. The building was WELL attended, so you knew exactly where your seat was with all the help around. You also learned very quickly that they did not like you setting your water bottle on the mezzanine rail and there was no place but the floor for it to go (nothing in the seat handles). While it is an opera house, they do sell to many different types of shows and they have drinks available in the lobby to take in with you, just no place to set them easily. Oh well. Other than that, it was perfect. The show ("The Piano Men" - Elton John and Billy Joel impersonators both on stage in a dueling piano type setup) was great and had some energy and excitement going. A nice night out.

The Sarasota Opera House is a stunning venue that combines history, beauty, and world-class performances. The building itself is elegant and well-preserved, giving you the feeling of stepping back in time while still enjoying modern comfort. The acoustics are excellent, making every performance clear and powerful, whether it’s a full opera production, a concert, or a special event. The staff and volunteers are welcoming and knowledgeable, which adds to the overall experience. Seating is comfortable, and there really isn’t a bad view in the house. Located right in the heart of downtown Sarasota, it’s also convenient to pair a show with dinner nearby. For anyone who loves live music, culture, and theater, the Sarasota Opera House is a true gem.

Spectacular, first time at this venue and did not disappointed. Looking forward to next year new calendar of performance.

Here for the Sarasota Opera Food and Wine Festival. Beautiful! Great food, great wine, fabulous people and met THE Jake Stamatis. Looking forward to the upcoming season.

My first Opera at 53 years old. Loved it, loved the venue, loved the people. Would highly recommend!!

We saw a rock show there. Great hall with fine acoustics. The crowd was appropriately lowd and singing along. I asked some.of the staff if the crowd acted similarly for a Puccini opera- they said nope.

The food was great! They serve both Thai food and sushi, and everything we had was delicious. I came here after hitting some balls at the Ritz-Carlton Members Club, and it was the perfect post-golf meal. Our server Melanie was super friendly and made sure we had everything we needed. The food came out pretty quickly too. I highly recommend trying the Valentine Roll — it was amazing. Overall, had a great time and would definitely come back.

Really enjoyed it! Fresh sashimi, polite and attentive staff, clean, cozy, and fast service. A perfect spot for lunch — I’ll definitely be back.

This restaurant was a revelation. We have been in Sarasota for 16 months and have had a difficult time finding quality Thai food. Not only did we find quality we found fantastic, elegant and deeply flavorful food. We had Thai food almost weekly in CA. Hands down this is the best we’ve come across in years! The Pad Ti image has the deepest flavor profile we have ever had. The seafood dish was magical. Not to mention the various “dim sum” style apps. We will be back, we will get takeout, we will spread the word.

Great food! But was so busy and under staffed. Took over an hour to take our order once seated and another hour to get food. Will I return?…absolutely no doubt

Had an amazing birthday dinner at Spice Station last night. Tucked in the vibrant Rosemary District, the atmosphere was lively and welcoming. Service was quick and friendly, and the food was absolutely delicious—flavorful, well-portioned, and beautifully done. Highly recommend!

Relaxed atmosphere, attentive service, and phenomenal food. We enjoyed a couple sushi rolls and split an entree. Everything is reasonably priced and our curried chicken fried rice was a HUGE plate of food. Looking forward to having it again tomorrow 😅 Gotta recommend their Thai iced tea + sushi rolls with fried grouper (Tampa and Florida roll). Worth a visit!!

2 experiences here. First was great but I didn’t write a review. Recently we ordered via Uber eats and it was STELLAR! You know it’s a great restaurant when they treat carry out orders with as much care as if you’re dining in person! Everything was fresh and yummy. We ordered basil duck, shrimp 🦐 pad Thai, spring rolls, crab rangoon (you know the cream cheese wontons)… all great. Spring rolls which can often be a rip off were packed with veggies, perfect. Also my basil duck was so delish and came with mixed veggies and it was clear the veggies were not an after thought or token, but an intentional part of the dish which I love. They were quality too so I had my dose of broccoli, carrots, cabbage, etc. All great.

UPDATE: This place is a joke! Threatened by owner, demanded I take my opinion down. Walked in only to find workers rough housing off to the side. Tables were extremely dirty. Got charged $5/ per slice. Pizza was super thin, no taste Mopeds hanging, not a very welcoming decor.

This pizza place called IL Panificio Pizzeria in Downtown is highly praised. For me it was wholesome , Food ,service and atmosphere combined . Ordered 4 different slices of pizza and the most honored one was the Buffalo chicken pizza. And to close with a cheesecake slice couldnt ask for more. Thank you

Heard good things about this place but it’s just Another Florida NY STYLE PIZZA BUST! Soooooo very very thin and flimsy, $4.00 per slice and probably 4oz of pizza 🍕 definitely not worth your time. It’s a mess inside as well- looks cluttered. Sorry IL Panificio just is what it is. ***** I encourage people to try it out and make their own review…. This is only my own opinion. Thanks for the response

Without a doubt this is my favorite pizza 🍕 in Sarasota! The thin crust is so amazing. If you only try one new place this month COME HERE! You won’t be disappointed. Fast friendly service with amazing consistent quality 💯

Il Panificio Pizzeria is a gem in our downtown. I have been coming here for twenty years. The food is amazing and the atmosphere is like a step back in time to a warm, welcoming place. Having pizza and a bottle of Chianti under a Vespa is so romantic. The customer service is absolutely top notch. Paco opens the wine and brings it to our table. The staff is friendly and always provides great service. Thank you.

Loved the pizza! We love thin and the slices are large. The display is full of several different kinds, you choose yours and they put it in the oven so it's hot and toasty! Family run and super friendly. My only complaint was tables were a bit of a mess. We still stayed and met some great people while there. Will definitely go back next time we're there!

Might not be the best pizza I've ever had- but it is definitely one of the better ones. Truly adhering to the New York style pizza making tradition, this is a very thin pie, but one that manages to be both crunchy and chewy, as opposed to just cracker like. I ordered takeout and got the 3 cheese, with the addition of lump ricotta taking the flavor of the pizza to another creamy level. The sauce was good,and it's the kind of pizza where the crust is possibly the best part, as opposed to an afterthought. Definitely deserves the fanfare it has gotten on review sites and notably from Dave Portnoy.

Great mall with a wide variety of stores and restaurants. Clean, spacious, and easy to navigate. Perfect place for both shopping and relaxing.

First of all, this mall is immaculately clean with tons of natural light flowing through its glass roof. It is a nice space to stroll through both visually and aurally. They have some great art hanging on the walls and there is plenty of parking. I am not sure why malls do not seem to work anymore, with the exception of UTC, this mall and Sarasota Square further south are more than half empty. I was there on a Saturday afternoon two weeks before Christmas and only saw a handful of people. Given how hot and humid it can be in Sarasota for six months every year, one would think a beautifully appointed, clean, air-conditioned mall would be a popular spot, but sadly that's not the case. It would be great to see more local artists using the space. The Players Center Theater moving here is a great idea to start with, even on a temporary basis. Perhaps some thought could even be given to the Sarasota Symphony taking up residence here. It is such a great and convenient location, I hope the owners continue to find creative ways to use the available space.

Mall is sadly all but dead. Few small stores remain. As seems to happen with places like this, homeless are taking over. There is this same creepy guy sits down by Cinebistro every day, "stealing" electricity and wifi playing games on his laptop all day. Actual purchase making customers can not sit to take a break because of this.

I really like the direction Sarasota square mall is heading. They are doing a great job in providing space for local artists and restaurants to display their Goods. If you are out and about take time to stroll and enjoy the art work , do some shopping.Catch a movie and a cocktail, check out the new player’s location, grab friends and enjoy a concert , a painting class or challenge someone to a chess match try out the new plant based restaurant Palmer .. So support the locals but spending an afternoon here ..

Nice outdoor mall. Bright and clean looking. Lots of brand stores. It's fairly large, easy to get turned around if you aren't used to it. The food court was meh. Not horrible but definitely room for improvement. The 'gator warning sign was a nice touch lol

Beautiful mall in the heart of Sarasota! Wonder why so many empty spaces? Why they don't split huge spaces into smaller and local fashion and other businesses will rush into the mall!

I only had a chance to hustle through in my first experience there, enjoying the air conditioned, posh track-shapped mall while making my way to a SCAT bus. However, I hope to return either to enjoy dinner and a movie with one stop or simply people watch in the extraordinarily elegant environs.

This park would get a 5/5 but unfortunately we did get locked in so I had to take one star off. The gates shut and lock at 10 PM so be careful and make sure to get out of the parking lot by then. The wait is not short if you do get locked in. The parks operator was super kind but the process and timing was unclear. It is a great spot for family fun and fishing and the shelling is good some days too. Sunset is beautiful to watch from anywhere on Lido too.

It’s the best spot for parking convenience and relatively easy access to restrooms.

South Lido Beach has become my family's favorite beach in the Sarasota area. It's improved drastically from when I was a youth. Lots of white sand, plenty of parking, and a newer restroom tower make it easily accessible. Also, there are a good number of shells that wash up on the beach so it's fun for the kids to go beachcombing while we're there. There are multiple picnic tables and space for gatherings.

Good shelling g and not crowded. Be careful of the rip current if you enter the water.

Beaches combed regularly. Nice clean restrooms open at 7 and concessions start at 11.

South Lido County Park is a good little park, but WOW! with all the shrubs, trees, and greenery, those pesky mosquitoes are plentiful! Bring your bug spray ‐ they're everywhere!! We were fighting them off nonstop until we finally ended up leaving.. It was miserable! I'm not sure if it was just bad timing or if its always like that, but we definitely caught the brunt of it!

Great spot for people with families with jetsky or boat a lots of parking spots shade and clean bathrooms. I little bit crowded sometimes

When you get their subscription, you can see a bunch of shows for a very reasonable price. It’s super easy (and free) to switch shows if something comes up and your plans change. The shows are geared toward the retired community so younger adults may not enjoy the clientele as much as. Personal, I enjoy the shows and easy two block walk to get there.

This is an incredible theater complex with a wide selection of scripted and improvised theater. I am always amazed at how much they can do and how smoothly it all runs behind the scenes. As an audience member and performer on their stages I have seen both sides and I am always impressed. You must see a show at FST while you're in town!

FST IS A wonderful organization that features several different venues. Our daughter, Carole J. Bufford, has been fortunate to have been booked for several different residencies for different Cabaret shows over the last several years. We love attending here not only to see her, but other attractions as well. Also, it's definitely an easier trek for us than NYC, where she normally originates and performs her shows! We are so looking forward to our upcoming visit during the last week of this month!

Lucky Stiff, a musical farce now playing until December 28,2025. Based on the book “The Man Who Broke the Bank in Monte Carlo”, was off Broadway in 1988. Also played in London’s West End in 1997. Very funny with a great cast. If you like farces, you’ll like this play at the Gompertz Theater at FST. Don’t Dress for Diner is a very funning farce by Marc Campletti who also wrote Boeing Boeing. Well acted with good costumes, scenic design. This play is in the Gompertz Theater and runs through August 24. Highly recommend this very funny production about a romantic weekend that goes wrong and turns chaotic and confusing. Dorothy’s Dictionary by E M Lewis at the Gompertz theater through August 10. A troubled high school student is assigned community service reading to a blind librarian in a nursing home develop an unlikely friendship. The two create a bond through the power of words and literature. I recommend this heartwarming story lasting 60 minutes. Dames at Sea running through July 6, 2025. A story about an aspiring young dancer from Utah who gets off a bus with only her tap shoes. Ruby is hopeful for a part on Broadway and lands a small role in a Broadway musical with help from a songwriting sailor. The deva Mona starring in the musical is unable to play her part and gives up her starring role. However , the theater suddenly closes and there is no place to put on their show. But it all works out in the end. Very good acting, singing and tap dancing. A fun play at the Gompertz theater. Bowne’s Lab is currently featuring a thoughtful and amusing play by Brent Askari, a PersianAmerican actor and playwright. The play is about a self help book friend/author who shows up at a couple’s apartment. As they critique the book, everything goes terribly wrong. The play is amusing and thoughtful. The performances by the 3 actors are excellent. Amanda Kristin Nichols is outstanding. Most performances are well done here at FST. Their current offering is the 2015 play “The Outsider” by Paul Slade Smith. This play is relevant to today’s political environment. A satirical look at unqualified candidates for political office who only answer questions with vague platitudes. If you like plays like Moliere’s “Tartuffe”, you may enjoy this very amusing farce. The production and actors are excellent. Continues through August 25th. Florida Studio Theater is now featuring the very funny and outlandish play about a “person eating plant” gone berserk and a sadistic dentist and his girlfriend. Little Shop of Horrors cast does an excellent job on this 2003 Broadway play based on several films starting in 1960. This is a must see running through January 14, 2024.

This is a beautiful space to see live theatre in the Sarasota area.

We purchased our 4 tickets online to reserve our spot. The location was within walking distance from my hotel. Our server Danny was wonderful. He was able to bring our cocktails without interrupting the show. Many people were eating entrée and dessert. I was not aware of the menu, but I did arrive minutes before the show started. My friend was a judge, and I was part of the show. It was such a blast. Ms. Jasmine was my character, and I loved every minute on the stage. The show was amazing, fun, and unpredictable. Kyle, Sarah, and Kevin had me laughing all night. It was the best date night!

SURFER BOYS! this was the August 6 performance . This might have been my favorite show. we just love FST and honestly have enjoyed every performance, Service is wonderful, food is surprisingly VERY good. i recommend the Southwestern salad. they put a few fried avocado balls on the top. yummy. but getting back to this performance, the singers were unbelievable, their wonderful performance has stuck with me. each voice was as good as the other. their harmony and energy and talent was just as good as it gets. i love the beach Boys and every song they sang. what especially struck us was their encore songs which included a Les miserable song and a very lovely tribute to our servicemen and country. I was truly moved. thank you.

After many years of m visiting Siesta village, I stopped by and had the classic donuts. Donuts are fresh and come in various flavors such as cannoli, French toast and key lime. They were warm and a little too greasy for me. But they were good and went well with my afternoon coffee.

We had a turtle cheese cake mini donuts and the french toast mini donuts. They were both good and not overly sweet. The french toast was better than the cheese cake. I honestly think plain or glazed would be best, but I still need to try them. The french toast is not pictured because my fiance ate them before I could take a picture.

Well, since I got here, I kept hearing about the donuts have to have donuts. Well I’ve had donuts three times since I’ve been here. Donuts and coffee or a must do excellent. I’ve done cinnamon and powdered sugar hot delicious coffee is great.. I’m not big on donuts, but this place won me over.

The donuts were really great! We got a mix of the powdered and cinnamon sugar. 19 for $6 which is nice considering the quality and taste. We tried the iced coffee for $4 but it wasn’t that satisfying. It’s a pretty cute place overall!

Meaney's is a cool little donut shack in Siesta Keys Florida we ended up getting the cinnamon and the glazed. They were freshly made and so soft I thought they were really good. The girl at the window was sweet and nice she helped me decide what to get cause they do have a good variety of different donuts. 100% recommend!

I love these donuts! They’re so good! But this year (2025) July 8-12 week we have tried to get them from their stickney point location to no avail every time we walk up to the window regardless of how long we wait there is a be back soon sign. Been there four times only to find the sign. So owner of that location, your employee is likely taking advantage. Drove all the way down to the Village location, where I saw the sign for a sec but then was finally able to get some donuts! The manager (pictured) was so polite and kind. Thank you!

This place catches your attention anytime you are close. The shoppe is popular and ready to serve. The donuts are amazing and super yummy. Early morning is a popular time for people to place orders for donuts and coffee.

If you’re looking for an unforgettable gelato experience in Florida, this place is an absolute gem. Every scoop is made with organic ingredients, and you can truly taste the difference — rich, fresh, and bursting with real flavor. Their variety is incredible, from classic Italian staples to creative seasonal specials, so there’s always something new to fall in love with. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, and the staff couldn’t be friendlier. They’re always happy to offer recommendations and let you sample flavors until you find the perfect one. One scoop here and you’re instantly transported straight to Italy — it’s that authentic. Highly recommend stopping by if you’re in the area. This is gelato done right! 🍨🇮🇹

Stopped here while visiting on vacation. Was intrigued by it being all organic, everything made from scratch and no artificial flavors. I got the teachers coffee, wife got dulce de leche, both sons got vanilla. We all absolutely loved it. This was the best treat/dessert we had in our week long stay here. Business is clean and the staff was very nice. I am going to miss this place. This is truly worth going to and checking out. You will not be disappointed.

Loved it! Authentic flavors with adorable atmosphere. Great gelato with amazing customer service. We really appreciate them! Small inside, so be prepared to sit outside on the covered patio.

Best Gelato in Siesta Key. Let me start by saying that this is by far, and I mean it, the best gelato in all of the Florida area. I tried the Dulce de leche gelato and the pistachio, and I have to say that it melted in my mouth like butter. Wow. Such a tasty gelato, all made with natural ingredients from Italy itself. You can tell that the products are of the highest quality. I know there are other ice cream places around, but I can guarantee, that NONE are like this one. Worth every penny and worth the drive. I went straight there and don’t regret the amazing experience. I highly recommend.

Best gelato I have ever had! The owner was the nicest person, and she gave us a lot of history about how the gelato is made and where she gets her products from (all imported from Italy), so you get a taste of Italy in the US! My family and I could not stay away and got gelato every day while we were down in Florida for vacation! 100000/10 recommend!

Ice cream is good. But not sure if you guys realize that putting skeletons, bats, making a hell is not really friendly. Not to adults or children. When are you guys offering a place to rest, and enjoy, why can’t you offer a restroom. Usually hands are dirty after or when ice cream drop, especially with kids. Prices went up at least double in the last few years, but service not. Hope you see this and a change comes soon. Ice cream and no restrooms, that’s is a joke. No coming in October.

Went twice in one week, the first time we went the gelato was absolutely delicious, creamy and tasted just like gelato in Europe. The second time we went there was a notable difference, less creamy and more icey. I am giving 5 stars because the first day was delicious but they need to work on consistency.

Ambiance is okay and server was nice. Unfortunately the food and overall service is meh. We were sat inside, near a kitchen entrance and restrooms. During our meal, at least 3 employees hit my chair on their path to and from the kitchen. For my meal, I ordered a burger, well done, with a side of fries. The meal came out with a side of chips and a burger that was near raw. Informed our server of both issues. I was brought a plate of fries - which is all I was able to eat. This was not our first time dining at MVP, but it was probably the worst to date. Maybe it was just a one-off. But there are several other options in the village and across the bridge that are better, in my opinion.

The food was really good and the atmosphere was very fun, the waitress wasn't really involved with our table she was OK with the 18% automatic tip. We know people have bad days so she won't detour us from coming back in

We called for a to go order, and they were efficient and great! We got the chicken Caesar salad which needed dressing, and the southwest bowl with grilled shrimp. They were both delicious! The food was ready in 15 minutes and I just went in and picked it up at the bar. Service was good and I could eat this bowl every night it was that good! We’ll do this again.

We absolutely love this place! The atmosphere is amazing, the food and drinks are always top-notch, and the staff make every visit feel special. Huge shoutout to Sam, Nikky, and Sabrina — they’re the absolute best! Friendly, attentive, and always go above and beyond to make sure everyone’s having a great time. You can really tell they care about their guests. If you’re looking for a place with great vibes, delicious cocktails, and a team that treats you like family, this is it. We can’t wait to come back!

We have eaten at MVP many times since it opened. Had good experiences up until tonight. We were a group of 11 and as expected we had a 45 minute wait as there are only a couple of places to seat that many people. That wasn’t the issue. Once we were seated it took a bit to get our initial waters. Our waitress was pleasant. We went ahead and placed our appetizer orders and entrees all at once. We waited probably 30 minutes for our appetizers to come out. We had to ask for appetizer plates. The pretzel and the avocado eggrolls were very good. Within 10 minutes of getting our appetizers we got our entrees. Not enough room on the table to place everything since we were still eating appetizers. Burgers and shrimp tacos were good other than one burger came without cheese even though cheese was ordered. Had to frequently ask for water refills. We will be taking a break from MVP as we feel that this was not worth the time or money. Do not recommend.

What wonderful service and caring! My husband’s sugar was dropping so I went to the bar and asked for a regular coke. The bartender also gave me a glass of orange juice. I told our waiter, Daniel to add those drinks to our check. He came out and told me the manager said not to charge us for those drinks. The food was excellent, best margarita flat bed ever! Daniel was polite and caring! I would def go back.

We had a wonderful meal at mvp with a very good server. We left a very large tip and found out today that the tip was not given to the server. It seemed to disappear when the owner cashed out for her. I wonder how many other tips are being misplaced by management. I will never return there.

This place was really nice. The workers were quick and nice. We sat outside. The ice cream was really good. There's lots of options for flavors and a couple for the cone. Recommend coming here. 💕🙃 And it's right on the road with the shops where you can get souvenirs. So it wasn't out of the way, at least for us.

I’m quite picky about ice cream, but this place was excellent! I had Rum Raisin and my son tried the seasonal Pumpkin Swirl - both were delicious. Great texture, lots of flavors, and a perfect treat after the beach or in the evening 😋🍦

Visited 27Apr25:: My girlfriend and I love ice cream we chose this place because she loves Cookie Monster ice cream and I love mint chocolate chip. Hand scooped ice cream is the best! Got them in fresh waffle cone and bowl. Not stale or soft at all, def the best ones we've had. Lots of flavors to choose from. We also picked out two pieces of fudge, peanut butter chocolate and Twix. Service was fast, they def have it down to a science. We loved the seating options, inside or outside. Outside provided either benches or you could sit on their ledge and look out at the road or face the people sitting on the bench. We will def be back!

Lucca took our order and was very friendly, which I appreciate. We both ordered sundaes in the chocolate covered bowls and everything was excellent. Highly recommend! :-)

Excellent location on main street of Siesta Key Village with easy access via the Free Trolley. Indoor and outdoor seating options available. So many flavors to choose from. My favorite is one scoop of Toasted Coconut and one scoop of Rum Raisin...tastes like vacation!! Don't be detered by a long line, it moves quick and their ice cream is well worth the short wait! Enjoy!!

Glad we found this place, so many flavors, centrally located in the village, and the ice cream is delicious! It definitely hit the spot. There is an area in the front to sit and enjoy your ice cream, and they also have some indoor seating. There is paid parking nearby, and it can get quite busy at times because the area is full of eateries and shops.

Best ice cream vibe on Siesta Key Beach 🫶🏼 🏖️☀️🍦🍨