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Sarasota Is Re-Opened For Business!

Resilient and Vibrant Sarasota is getting Ready For The Holiday Season

Sarasota, Florida, renowned for its vibrant culinary scene, has recently welcomed several new restaurants, even as the community navigates the challenges posed by a particularly active hurricane season. While some establishments faced closures due to storm damage, others have demonstrated remarkable resilience, reopening their doors to eager patrons.

New Culinary Ventures in Sarasota

  1. Rufa at The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota
    Opening on October 3, 2024, Rufa offers an alfresco dining experience inspired by Baja California cuisine. Guests can enjoy shareable dishes complemented by an extensive selection of wines, tequilas, and mezcals. The restaurant’s design features a ground-floor seating area adjacent to the resort’s lawn and an elevated bar accessible via a winding staircase.

     

  2. Deep Lagoon Seafood and Oyster House at Waterside Place
    Recently opened in August 2024, Deep Lagoon Seafood and Oyster House enhances Waterside Place’s dining options with its focus on fresh seafood and a relaxed atmosphere. The restaurant’s lakeside location provides a serene backdrop for diners.

     

  3. Agave Bandido
    Opened in March 2024, Agave Bandido will bring Mexican-inspired cuisine and a tequileria to Waterside Place. The establishment is a lively spot for both locals and visitors. Visitors are raving about their Margaritas and unique cocktails. Also, it’s ideally located on the water at the waterside to catch some of our gorgeous sunsets.

     

Impact of the Hurricane Season

The 2024 hurricane season, marked by Hurricanes Helene and Milton, significantly affected Sarasota’s restaurant industry. Many waterfront and barrier island establishments faced closures due to storm damage.

  • Columbia Restaurant on St. Armands Circle 

    Established in 1959, Columbia is Sarasota’s oldest full-service restaurant. After sustaining damage from the hurricanes, it closed temporarily but announced a reopening date of October 26, 2024. After recently visiting the location, we’re happy to say their re-opened and their bringing back visitors to St. Armand’s Circle, the area has a long way to recover but we’re lucky to have this establishment and support St. Armand’s Circle’s full recovery.

     

  • Caddy’s Bradenton Riverwalk
    Unfortunately, Caddy’s Bradenton Riverwalk location suffered extensive damage from Hurricane Milton, including a collapsed tiki hut. As a result, the establishment has been permanently closed.

     

  • Tide Tables Restaurant and Marina
    Located in the Cortez fishing village, Tide Tables is renowned for its fresh seafood. After a temporary closure due to hurricane damage, it successfully reopened on October 16, 2024, much to the delight of its patrons.

     

Resilience and Recovery

The swift reopening of several establishments underscores the resilience of Sarasota’s restaurant community. For instance, Shore, a popular spot on St. Armands Circle, reopened shortly after the hurricanes, welcoming back diners eager to enjoy its offerings.

Suggested Image: The bustling interior of Shore with diners and staff engaging in lively conversation.

Looking Ahead

Despite the challenges posed by the hurricane season, Sarasota’s culinary scene continues to thrive. The introduction of new dining venues and the reopening of beloved establishments highlight the community’s strength and commitment to providing exceptional culinary experiences. As the city moves forward, both residents and visitors can look forward to exploring a diverse array of dining options that reflect Sarasota’s enduring spirit and passion for gastronomy.

Sarasota’s restaurant industry exemplifies resilience and innovation, ensuring that the city’s culinary landscape remains dynamic and inviting.

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