Sarasota’s Main Street is not just a vibrant hub for arts and culture; it’s also a thriving destination for food lovers. From cozy breakfast spots to elegant dinner venues, Main Street Sarasota Restaurants offer a diverse culinary landscape that caters to every palate. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor exploring the Gulf Coast, get ready to discover some of the best dining experiences this charming city has to offer.
1592 Wood Fired Kitchen & Cocktails
1592 Main St., Sarasota, (941) 365-2234, 1592srq.com
Stepping into 1592 Wood Fired Kitchen & Cocktails is like embarking on a Mediterranean culinary journey. This restaurant has thoughtfully taken over the space of the former El Greco, retaining its legacy of excellent Greek cuisine while expanding its horizons to include Turkish, Syrian, Portuguese, and Italian flavors. It’s an ideal spot for a relaxed lunch, especially with their fantastic lunch deal – two generous courses for just $14, making it one of the most appealing lunch values in Sarasota. The ambiance is inviting, perfect for both casual meetups and more intimate dining experiences.
Interior of Bar Hana restaurant in Sarasota with sleek black tiled bar and natural rattan walls.
Bar Hana
1289 N. Palm Ave., Sarasota, (941) 536-9717, barhana.com
For a taste of the tropics right in downtown Sarasota, Bar Hana is your go-to destination. This tiki-inspired bar and restaurant, a sibling to the acclaimed Kojo, elevates the tropical cocktail experience with sophisticated pan-Asian bites. The interior is undeniably hip, featuring a chic, black-tiled bar that serves as the centerpiece, beautifully contrasted by the warm, natural textures of rattan-lined walls. To truly embrace the tropical vibe, try their signature “Scarlett Macaw” cocktail, a delightful blend of cachaça, apertivo, vanilla, and pineapple – an instant escape to island paradise.
Close up of Paella mariscos dish at BESO restaurant, showcasing seafood and rice.
BESO
30 S. Lemon Ave., Sarasota, (941) 279-2999, besosrq.com
From the creators of State Street Eating House comes BESO, a restaurant that’s redefining Spanish tapas in Sarasota. BESO offers a vibrant and modern take on Spanish cuisine, coupled with an energetic nightlife ambiance reminiscent of its sister establishment. The cocktail menu is a standout, with a creative use of amari – herbal amaro liqueurs like Aperol or vermouth – creating unique and complex flavor profiles that are perfect for enjoying throughout the evening. BESO is more than just a meal; it’s an experience.
The Breakfast House
1817 Fruitville Road, Sarasota, (941) 366-6860, sarasotabreakfasthouse.com
While slightly off Main Street on Fruitville Road, The Breakfast House is an essential Sarasota breakfast destination worth noting. They have truly mastered the art of the pancake. Each pancake boasts a beautifully griddled exterior that gives way to a fluffy, airy interior, subtly toasted and dotted with air pockets. Paired with rich butter and authentic maple syrup, these pancakes are a breakfast revelation. For the ultimate experience, indulge in “Uncle Harry’s hearty breakfast,” a generous sampler that showcases the best of what The Breakfast House has to offer, a true feast for breakfast lovers.
The bar area at Cafe Epicure restaurant, displaying bottles and glasses.
Cafe Epicure
1298 N. Palm Ave., Sarasota, (941) 366-5648, cafeepicure.com
Located at the vibrant intersection of Main Street and Palm Avenue, Cafe Epicure is a charming trattoria that offers a taste of Italy in the heart of Sarasota. With a relaxed and inviting atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot for enjoying classic, unfussy Italian dishes. Their menu features a delightful selection of pasta, salads, and pizzas, complemented by an excellent wine list with a variety of wines available by the glass. Don’t miss their exceptional carbonara, the perfectly cooked chicken milanese, or the flavorful oriecchiette with broccoli rabe and sausage. For starters, the bresaola or carpaccio are highly recommended and set the stage for a delightful Italian meal.
Caragiulos
69 S. Palm Ave., Sarasota, (941) 951-0866, caragiulos.com
Caragiulos is the quintessential neighborhood Italian-American restaurant, ideal for families and anyone seeking a comforting and classic dining experience. The interior decor, featuring vintage Italian movie posters, adds a touch of nostalgic charm. It’s a family-friendly place where children are encouraged to get creative and craft their own pizzas, while adults can enjoy house-made focaccia and a menu full of Italian-American favorites. From meatballs and spaghetti to linguine with clam sauce, lasagna, and Sicilian eggplant, Caragiulos offers a wide array of choices. Excitingly, Caragiulos is set to move to a new, larger location on Ringling Boulevard in late 2025, but the original Palm Avenue location will remain open until the move, ensuring you can still enjoy its classic charm.
Exterior of C'est La Vie! French bakery and cafe in Sarasota with outdoor seating and signage.
C’est La Vie!
1553 Main St., Sarasota, (941) 906-9575; 8527 Cooper Creek Blvd., Sarasota, (941) 355-2323; cestlaviesarasota.com
For nearly two decades, C’est La Vie! has been a beloved fixture on Main Street, bringing a taste of French joie de vivre to Sarasota diners. This charming French bakery and café is perfect for those craving crêpes, quiches, croissants, sandwiches, and salads. Just a glance at their pastry display, filled with freshly baked French delights—especially the chocolate and almond croissants—is enough to induce a delightful sugar rush. The downtown location’s popularity led to a second location opening further east, ensuring that more of Sarasota can enjoy their authentic French pastries and café fare.
Cuba 1958
1766 Main St., Sarasota, (941) 280-1958, cuba1958.com
Downtown Sarasota finally has its dedicated Cuban restaurant, and Cuba 1958 has proven to be well worth the wait. Open for both lunch and dinner, this spot highlights all the classic Cuban dishes you could wish for. From croquetas and empanadas to masitas de puerco (delicious fried pork chunks in a garlicky mojo), the menu is extensive—four pages long—guaranteeing something for every Cuban food enthusiast. Whether you’re after an old favorite or looking to try something new, Cuba 1958 provides a comprehensive and authentic Cuban dining experience right on Main Street.
Drunken Poet
1572 Main St., Sarasota, (941) 955-8404, drunkenpoetcafesrq.com
Drunken Poet offers a unique and intimate dining experience on Main Street. This small, bohemian-styled restaurant, adorned with poetry scribbled on the walls, serves expertly prepared Thai and other Asian dishes from its compact kitchen. It’s also an excellent choice for those seeking vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, with a sophisticated menu that includes dishes like Thai crispy duck, lamb shank in tamarind curry, preserved duck eggs, creative stir-fries, and tempura dinners. The Drunken Poet combines a relaxed atmosphere with seriously delicious and diverse Asian cuisine.
Duval’s
1435 Main St., Sarasota, (941) 312-4001, duvalsfreshlocalseafood.com
Duval’s is synonymous with fresh, local seafood in downtown Sarasota. Easily recognizable by their aquamarine shuttle van that offers free rides around the downtown area, Duval’s is committed to bringing diners to one of the city’s premier seafood restaurants. Chef Nils Tarantik’s menu features a rotating selection of fresh fish throughout the year, ensuring a diverse and seasonal dining experience. His expertise extends to shellfish, and the restaurant’s lunchtime po’ boys, filled with fried shrimp or oysters, are particularly noteworthy. For seafood lovers, Duval’s is a must-visit on Main Street.
The Fountain
543 S. Pineapple Ave., Sarasota, (941) 203-8523, thefountainkitchenandwinebar.com
Nestled at the triangular intersection of Pineapple and Orange avenues, The Fountain boasts a prime location in the historic Burns Court neighborhood. Its outdoor seating area is perfect for people-watching while soaking up the Florida sunshine. The menu features a selection of wood-fired pizzas, sandwiches, and salads, ideal for a relaxed meal in a vibrant setting. A local favorite, if the mushroom soup is on special, it’s highly recommended. The Fountain is all about location, atmosphere, and enjoyable casual dining.
A close up shot of a pork belly dish at Indigenous restaurant, beautifully plated.
Indigenous
239 S. Links Ave., Sarasota, (941) 706-4740, indigenoussarasota.com
Located in a charming Towles Court cottage, Indigenous, led by Chef Steve Phelps, continues to impress with its commitment to sustainability and unique culinary creations. The tiny kitchen consistently delivers exceptional, one-of-a-kind plates, with a strong emphasis on sustainable practices. Chef Phelps has a special talent with Gulf fish, and any seafood special on the menu is highly recommended. However, Indigenous isn’t just for special occasions; their rotating fish sandwich specials are considered one of the best dining deals in town, making gourmet sustainable cuisine accessible to everyone.
Jack Dusty
Inside The Ritz-Carlton, 1111 Ritz-Carlton Drive, Sarasota, (941) 309-2266, ritzcarlton.com
Jack Dusty, located within The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota, successfully navigates the challenge of being a top-tier hotel restaurant. It caters to a diverse clientele, from hotel guests to local residents, with a menu that is both accessible and exceptionally delicious. The experience begins with an extensive selection of raw seafood, followed by a curated choice of meat and seafood entrées that change regularly, ensuring freshness and variety. Combined with stunning water views and expertly crafted cocktails, Jack Dusty offers a winning formula for a memorable dining experience in a luxurious setting.
Grilled tofu dish at Lila restaurant, showcasing vibrant colors and fresh ingredients.
Lila
1576 Main St., Sarasota, (941) 296-1042, lilasrq.com
Lila has significantly transformed Sarasota’s dining scene, pioneering the way for vegetable-forward cuisine in the city. While Sarasota had vegetarian and vegan options before, Lila, since its opening in 2016, has truly brought vegetables to the forefront of local menus. Their flavorful Burmese bowl, with its irresistible curry-coconut broth, and the macro bowl, enhanced by a tahini-turmeric dressing, are standout dishes. Lila proved that Sarasota was ready to embrace meat-free dining, offering innovative and delicious plant-based options that appeal to everyone.
Lucile Pizza & Wine Bar
1660 Main St., Sarasota, (941) 330-0101, lucilesrq.com
Lucile Pizza & Wine Bar is a tiny yet impactful restaurant known for its solid pizza and pasta, with a focus on “vegetable forward” dishes. They offer an impressive array of vegan options, like the “angry farmer” pizza made with Calabrian chili sauce, cashew mozzarella, and seasonal vegetables. However, meat lovers are not forgotten; dishes like the lamb shank tagliatelle showcase their culinary versatility. Even if you’re not typically drawn to vegan food, Lucile’s vegan offerings are highly recommended and surprisingly delightful, proving that plant-based cuisine can be both exciting and satisfying.
Outdoor seating area of Mattison's City Grille restaurant, showcasing a lively atmosphere.
Mattison’s City Grille
1 N. Lemon Ave., Sarasota, (941) 330-0440, mattisons.com
Mattison’s City Grille, helmed by Chef Paul Mattison, offers an award-winning menu right on the corner of Main Street and Lemon Avenue. Dine al fresco and enjoy fresh seafood, aged beef, duck, tapas, and creative cocktails, along with a first-rate selection of wines and brews. The vibrant atmosphere is enhanced by live music in the evenings, making it a perfect spot for a lively dinner or drinks. Mattison’s City Grille is a cornerstone of the Sarasota dining scene, offering something for everyone in a prime downtown location.
Mediterraneo
1970 Main St., Sarasota, (941) 365-4122, mediterraneorest.com
Mediterraneo is a well-established and highly regarded restaurant with a loyal following of discerning diners. The menu focuses on contemporary northern Italian cuisine, complemented by an extensive fine wine list and a relaxed, unhurried dining pace. It’s an ideal location to impress clients or enjoy a sophisticated meal with family, offering an elegant ambiance and exceptional food and wine pairings. For a refined Italian dining experience on Main Street, Mediterraneo is an excellent choice.
Exterior of Owen's Fish Camp restaurant, showing a rustic, old Florida style shack with outdoor seating.
Owen’s Fish Camp
516 Burns Court, Sarasota, (941) 951-6936, owensfishcamp.com
Owen’s Fish Camp is a truly delightful and unique dining experience in Sarasota’s Burns Court area, offering some of the area’s best seafood in a fun, Old Florida setting. The atmosphere is lively and boisterous, set in a rustic shack where the conversation is soundtracked by live, twangy folk music from a backyard band. Their “Naked Fish” menu, featuring the freshest catches, is a highlight, especially when dressed with brown butter Hollandaise or lemon-caper butter. Sides like the perfect collard greens and succotash are essential complements to any meal. Don’t forget to capture a fun photo on the tire swing out back, a charming touch to this unique Sarasota gem.
Palm Avenue Deli
1297 N. Palm Ave., Sarasota, (941) 263-3742, palmavenuedeli.com
Another successful venture from the owners of Kojo and Speaks Clam Bar, Palm Avenue Deli combines classic Jewish deli fare with a nostalgic 1950s diner vibe. It’s the perfect spot for breakfast, offering bagels with whitefish salad or a classic schmear. For lunch, the Reuben sandwich, made with house-made, thinly sliced and piled-high corned beef, is a must-try. Palm Avenue Deli brings a comforting and delicious deli experience to Main Street.
Chefs preparing pizza at Il Panificio restaurant, showcasing the pizza making process.
Il Panificio
1703 Main St., Sarasota, (941) 366-5570, panificiousa.com
Il Panificio stands out in Sarasota’s vibrant pizza scene for its exceptional variety and quality. Their specialty is the wide array of pizza slices, allowing diners to create custom lunches with options ranging from breakfast pizza with egg and bacon to traditional pepperoni and sausage. The key to Il Panificio’s success is its crackling crust, which has a unique toasted cereal flavor and a delightful texture, providing the perfect base for their diverse and delicious pizza creations.
Peru 941
1537 Main St., Sarasota, (941) 960-1206, peru941togo.com
Peru 941 is a fantastic choice for a quick and delicious lunch option on Main Street, open from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. The staff is known for their warm and welcoming service, and the menu showcases some of Peru’s finest dishes. A standout favorite is the aji de gallina, a creamy and flavorful chicken stew served over rice – a truly heavenly dish. Peru 941 offers an authentic taste of Peru in a friendly and accessible setting.
Close up of Torched salmon nori tacos dish at Kojo restaurant, highlighting Asian fusion cuisine.
Kojo
1289 N. Palm Ave., Sarasota, (941) 536-9717, eatkojo.com
Kojo, part of Palm Avenue’s Hi Hospitality Group, offers an upscale Asian fusion dining experience in a sleek and stylish setting. The open kitchen adds to the modern ambiance, where chefs expertly prepare dishes like tender bao selections with unique fillings such as katsu rock shrimp and crispy sweet potato. The sushi rolls are also a highlight, and for dessert, the passion fruit panna cotta is highly recommended. Kojo provides a sophisticated and innovative take on Asian cuisine in downtown Sarasota.
Close up of Pho Cali's pho tom dish, a Vietnamese noodle soup with shrimp and herbs.
Pho Cali
1578 Main St., Sarasota, (941) 955-2683, phocalisarasota.com
Pho Cali is renowned in Sarasota for its consistency and quality, perhaps the most consistently excellent restaurant in the city. No matter what you order, you can expect it to be prepared perfectly every time. Their pho is particularly outstanding, with a rich and complex broth infused with a variety of spices. The fresh accompaniments—bean sprouts, basil, lime, and jalapeños—add brightness and herbal notes. Whether you choose the pho with all the trimmings or your preferred proteins, Pho Cali guarantees a reliably delicious Vietnamese dining experience.
Exterior of Project coffee shop in Rosemary District of Sarasota, showcasing outdoor seating and modern design.
Project
538 S. Pineapple Ave., Sarasota; 1419 Fifth St., Sarasota; 5055 Ocean Blvd., Siesta Key, Sarasota; projectcoffee.us
Project is more than just a coffee shop; it’s a local favorite known for its all-vegan menu and vibrant atmosphere. While popular as a coffee date spot, Project offers a robust menu that extends well beyond coffee and oat milk lattes. Each of their locations offers a unique vibe – the Burns Court location is perfect for a hearty vegan breakfast, while the Rosemary District location is ideal for a purposeful and thoughtful lunch. The newest location on Siesta Key focuses on bowls, smoothies, and pastries. Project is a testament to the delicious possibilities of plant-based cuisine in Sarasota.
Close up of Sage's mojo pork chop dish, plated with vibrant garnishes and sauce.
Sage
1216 First St., Sarasota, (941) 445-5660, sagesrq.com
Sage is a fine dining destination on Main Street, perfect for special occasions. While it may be on the pricier side, the exceptional food justifies the cost. Executive chef Christopher Covelli’s menu changes frequently, but standout dishes include the lamb—a double chop marinated in Indian spices—and a Thai bouillabaisse with a rich red curry base. Even the Caesar salad is noteworthy, peppery and assertive in flavor. Reservations are highly recommended, and arriving early for a cocktail on their rooftop bar is a must, offering one of the best sunset views in Sarasota.
Interior of Selva restaurant, showcasing a dimly lit dining room with colorful lighting.
Selva
1345 Main St., Sarasota, (941) 362-4427, selvagrill.com
Selva is a Sarasota dining institution that helped popularize Peruvian cuisine in the area. Known for its extensive ceviche menu and a wide array of small plates perfect for sharing, Selva offers a vibrant and energetic dining experience. The restaurant boasts a cool and stylish environment, with a dimly lit dining room pulsing with colorful lights and a lush lounge area that features one of the best happy hour menus in town. Selva is also unique in offering a late-night menu, making it a great spot for evening bites and drinks.
People splitting a large pretzel at Siegfried's Restaurant beer garden, enjoying outdoor dining.
Siegfried’s Restaurant
1869 Fruitville Road, Sarasota, (941) 330-9330, siegfrieds-restaurant.com
Siegfried’s Restaurant offers a dual dining experience with an indoor sit-down area in a historic cottage and a lively beer garden outside. A must-try are their giant pretzels, as big as a hubcap, served with an addictive spicy mustard, a recipe from the Rhineland hometown of owners René and Kim Zimmermann. The beer garden, with its long picnic tables and food trailer, offers a casual and fun atmosphere, perfect for enjoying German-inspired fare and a relaxed outdoor meal.
Cocktail at State Street Eating House + Cocktails restaurant, showcasing a bramble drink.
State Street Eating House + Cocktails
1533 State St., Sarasota, (941) 951-1533, statestreetsrq.com
State Street Eating House + Cocktails was already a beloved spot, known for having one of the best bars in Sarasota, but the addition of ramen to their menu elevated it even further. Beyond ramen, the restaurant also serves one of the city’s best burgers and a selection of terrific salads. State Street offers a versatile menu and a fantastic bar, making it a great choice for various dining preferences and occasions.
Chana masala dish at Turmeric restaurant, an Indian vegetarian curry with chickpeas and spices.
Turmeric
1001 Cocoanut Ave., Sarasota, (941) 212-2622, turmericsarasota.com
Turmeric, located at the corner of 10th Street and Cocoanut Avenue, is revitalizing the Indian food scene in Sarasota. The dining room is filled with warm, aromatic spices like cinnamon, clove, and cardamom, creating an inviting and sensory-rich atmosphere. Start your meal with a mocktail from their extensive list or opt for something stronger. A dinner favorite is the sham savera, featuring paneer (house-made cheese) dumplings in a flavorful tomato sauce. Turmeric offers a vibrant and authentic Indian culinary experience.
Lamb shashlik dish at Tzeva restaurant, Middle Eastern cuisine with skewered lamb and rice.
Tzeva
Inside Art Ovation Hotel, 1255 N. Palm Ave., Sarasota, (941) 413-7425, tzevasarasota.com
Tzeva, located inside the Art Ovation Hotel, is a testament to the importance of exceptional food in a hotel dining setting. Chef Ken Shiro Lumpkin delivers with dishes inspired by Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines. The lamb shashlik (kebab) is a must-order, featuring tender lamb served over fragrant, sweet, and savory rice. Adding to its appeal, Tzeva offers a daily happy hour from 5 to 7 p.m. with all small plates priced at just $10, making it an accessible and delightful dining option.
Explore Main Street Sarasota Dining Today
Main Street Sarasota’s restaurant scene is a vibrant tapestry of flavors and experiences, waiting to be explored. From international cuisines to local favorites, there’s a restaurant to satisfy every craving. Make sure to visit these culinary hotspots and discover your own favorite Main Street Sarasota restaurant.
