Sarasota

I grew up in Sarasota. It was unanimously agreed among my friends that we lived in Heaven on Earth. Everything is beautiful, the arts are a focus of the town, and there is incredible food (even for a vegan!)

Great Restaurants:

Simon’s Coffee House (amazing for breakfast, lunch, and dinner with vegan options for each, just north of Clark Road on 41, across from the cemetery)

Chutney’s (Middle Eastern cuisine on Hillview)

Cafe Epicure (Italian on Main Street)

Selva Grill (Ceviche and Peruvian cuisine on Main Street)

Taste of Asia (mostly Thai food, has a full vegan menu on Main)

Da Ru Ma (Hibachi restaurant, great sushi on Fruitville road)

Kampai (Amazing sushi at a good price on Clark Road)

Well this place is special to me because I went there alone a few times and I spent time there with my family.

First of all, driving alone was therapeutic. Drove there and around a bit and went back to Bradenton…

Went to Sangria, this great tapas restaurant, with my family. Good food, great sangria.

Also, I love the name of the road “Tamiami Trail.”

I lived here during the middle 1970’s. I loved it. I couldn’t get over all the older folks. lol! What am I saying I’m a older folk now! Hwy 41 was a killer then. But I just loved Sarasota especially st arman’s key and lido beach. I spent many a happy time there. Is Big Daddy’s still there? lol! I went to Ringling and it was so laid back. Now its just a commercial enterprize. The hideway bar is gone and probably some other hangouts. I was from the deep south and Sarasota was a culture shock to me back then, lol! The Ringling museum, home and the asolo theatre. I use to sneek into the new college pool when it was locked up at night. I want to go back and see the changes. Is the oberlins diner on 301 still open? Best fish in town!

There is so much to do here, St Armand’s Circle, Ringling Art Museum, John Ringling’s Home, Mote Marine, sailing, fishing, or just hangin out on a beach.

I grew up here. While I thought it was the worst place in the world when I was younger, the second I moved away I missed it. Gorgeous beaches, wonderful cultural events and a sense of community. Don’t miss out on St. Armand’s Cirlce or Siesta Key. You have to go to Kilwin’s to get ice cream and watch them make fudge and it would be a crime to miss a sunset at City Island Park. Check out the Van Wezle and the Aslo to see what shows they have playing because most likely someone has something great showing. Mote Marine is always fun and educational if you have kids and if you are single, Sarasota is close enough to Tampa and Clearwater to really experience the night life of Florida. Sarasota is a must see. Don’t miss it.