Sarasota Waterfront Dining: Your Go-To Guide
Sarasota Waterfront Dining
Imagine dining by sunset, waves bobbing harbored boats along the dock in front of you, all while you sip frozen cocktails and enjoy good conversation. With Sarasota waterfront dining, thanks to an extraordinary dining vibe and oceanfront location, you don’t have to imagine anything. This is real life.
A big component of the art of Sarasota living is full access to the waterfront and the boating lifestyle. The restaurant scene also partakes. On any given evening, enjoy a meal overlooking the perfect Gulf of Mexico from an eatery in Sarasota, Florida.
Whether you’re seeking white tablecloths and romantic elegance, or a no-frills tiki hut with live music and barefoot dancing, these Sarasota waterfront restaurants are at the top of our must-try list.
1. Jack Dusty
Jack Dusty is the Ritz-Carlton Sarasota’s iconic restaurant. During the day, this coastal casual joint serves an assortment of menu items from burgers to lobster rolls. Come evening time, this waterfront restaurant is fully booked with patrons ordering oysters by the dozen and giant Branzinos a la fresh catch of the day. Jack Dusty leans more towards an elevated setting, however casual outdoor seating is the perfect spot to sip on their staple cocktail, the Siren.
While you’re here, be sure to check out the adjacent, brand new Ritz-Carlton Residences.
Jack Dusty, 1111 Ritz Carlton Dr, Sarasota, FL 34236. (941) 309-2266. OpenTable.
2. Shore Longboat Key
Shore Longboat Key has perhaps one of the most expansive Sarasota waterfront dining views in the area. Offering an entrend ambience, Shore is the waterfront sister of the longstanding St. Armands brand establishment. The menu includes fresh seafood dishes and delicious cocktails, all served with a breathtaking view. We recommend arriving early to scope out the attached lifestyle store that offers some of the best casual-chic clothing.
Shore Longboat Key, 800 Broadway St, Longboat Key, FL 34228. (941) 259-4600. Resy.
3. O’Leary’s Tiki Bar & Grill
A local legend, O’Leary’s Tiki Bar & Grill is a no-frills, bayfront bar and grill located on Sarasota’s Bayfront Park. Enjoy ice-cold beverages and light bites from a picnic table with your toes in the sand. Need a refill? Simply head to the tiki bar to hang out with the locals.
O’Leary’s Tiki Bar & Grill, 5 Bayfront Dr, Sarasota, FL 34236. (941)953-7505. No reservations needed.
4. Crow’s Nest Restaurant, Tavern & Marina
When you’re looking for Old Florida charm in South Sarasota, head to Venice for The Crow’s Nest. Here, you’ll find charming eats overlooking the marina at this multi-story eatery. Below is a classic-style tavern, above, is a coastal restaurant serving everything from a decadent seafood tower to a 12 ounce ribeye. This establishment has been serving the local area since 1976, and is accessible by boat.
Crow’s Nest Restaurant, Tavern & Marina, 1968 Tarpon Center Dr, Venice, FL 34285. (941) 484-9551. OpenTable.
5. Casey Key Fish House
Another favorite in south Sarasota is Casey Key Fish House, located in Nokomis on the exclusive gulf-to-bay barrier island, Casey Key. Casey Key Fish House attracts locals on a casual jaunt who return time and time again for iced cocktails and cold beer at the tiki hut. Enjoy live music overlooking the harbor as boats pull up, and then head inside to the restaurant for fresh grouper sandwiches and catches of the day. Casual Sarasota waterfront dining at it’s best.
Casey Key Fish House, 801 Blackburn Point Rd, Osprey, FL 34229. (941) 966-1901. No reservations required.
6. Ophelia’s On the Bay
Looking for white tablecloths and quaint, Old Florida feels? Look no further than Ophelia’s on the Bay, one of Siesta Key’s only fine dining establishments. This local secret is ranked among the top 100 restaurants in Florida and is named Sarasota’s Best Waterfront Restaurant by Sarasota Herald-Tribune. Enjoy traditional style dining overlooking a glowing dock during the evening. During the weekend, stop by for their brunch menu. Following dinner, enjoy a night on the town in the Siesta Key Village.
Ophelia’s On the Bay, 9105 Midnight Pass Rd, Sarasota, FL 34242. (941) 349-2212. OpenTable.
7. The Point
New to Sarasota’s waterfront dining scene, The Point is owned and operated by local restaurateur Mike Evanoff. The newly renovated three-story restaurant neighbors a tiki hut, but surprisingly serves a classic take on coastal Floridian cuisine, pulling some inspiration from New England too. Enjoy dinner and drinks here with an unbelievable view overlooking Little Sarasota Bay in Osprey.
The Point, 131 Bayview Dr, Osprey, FL 34229. (941)786-3890. Call for reservations.
Sarasota Waterfront Dining
When it comes to waterfront dining in Sarasota, this list of go-tos will help you experience the coastal vibes of the area. Enjoy dinner, or just drinks, with a view from any of these local establishments for a true Sarasota experience. Recommendations courtesy of Living Vogue Real Estate.
