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Diners' Choice: Lively restaurants in Sarasota / Bradenton

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OpenTable
Updated January 05, 2025

Looking for restaurants that have the most vibrant bar scenes in Sarasota / Bradenton? You’re in the right place. Each month, OpenTable analyzes nearly 2 million global diner reviews from the past four months. We sort the results by location and category to help you discover new favorite restaurants. It's a great partnership: you reserve, eat, and review. We listen...and deliver the results for all to benefit. Enjoy!

A photo of Big Top Brewery restaurant
4.8
4.8 (84)
$30 and under
Gastro Pub
Fruitville, Florida
About the restaurant
When we started Big Top Brewing Company, there were no craft breweries in the Sarasota area and we set out to fix that. We wanted to compliment Sarasota’s historical associations with The Ringling Circus, performing arts, great architecture, the best art and design schools and world renown tourism.

The best way we could do that was to craft beer that our home town can be proud of. We plan to continue the tradition of the arts and help Sarasota add beer town to its identity. Come step under our big top and see for yourself. Big Top Brewing Company artistically crafts world class beers, inspired by our passion, integrity, and the history of our home town.

Top review
Beth
Dined 6 days ago
First time to eat there. It was wonderful! We’re already making plans to go back.
A photo of Ruth's Chris Steak House - Lakewood Ranch restaurant
4.7
4.7 (788)
$31 to $50
Steakhouse
Lakewood Ranch
About the restaurant
Ruth's Chris Steak House in Lakewood Ranch serves the finest USDA Prime beef available, broiled at 1,800° and served on 500° plates, so your steak stays hot, juicy and delicious from first bite to last. Enjoy our New Orleans-inspired appetizers, USDA Prime steaks, fresh seafood, signature side dishes and homemade desserts. All this while you enjoy our warm, inviting atmosphere and Ruth’s Chris’ genuine hospitality. So, whether you’re a regular or have just been wondering what all the buzz is about, Ruth's Chris is the perfect excuse to enjoy the perfect night out. Dinner is served nightly, reservations are suggested, and private dining and offsite catering may be arranged.
Top review
HenryVIP
Dined 2 days ago
Awesome and they were fantastic They split 2 meals and salad three ways Service was great Very noisy though
A photo of Rose & Ivy restaurant
4.6
4.6 (427)
$31 to $50
Sushi
Sarasota
About the restaurant
Rose & Ivy, located in the beautiful two-story, vine-covered historic I.R Burns and H.H. Bell Building right next to the Sarasota Opera House in the heart of Downtown Sarasota. Featuring eclectic Pan-Asian cuisine, with a focus on sushi, sizzling steak, exotic dim sum, a superb beverage program, plus a curated atmosphere like nothing in Sarasota.

The space is a multi-faceted property with large front and courtyard patios with lots of fans for Florida weather, interior dining room and upstairs piano bar. Explore with us from 3PM-12AM, Tuesday through Sunday!

Top review
Judy
Dined 7 days ago
It’s a nice neighborhood place to meet for an enjoyable dinner in a nice atmosphere
A photo of CUBA 1958 - Sarasota restaurant
4.5
4.5 (108)
$31 to $50
Cuban
Sarasota
About the restaurant
Infused with the legacy of a prestigious Cuban restaurant in New Jersey, a part of this family's culinary lineage, the new Cuban restaurant in Sarasota, Florida, promises to be a beacon of excellence and authenticity. Building on the reputation and expertise garnered from their successful establishment up north, this new venture aims to elevate the dining experience in Sarasota by offering a refined yet soulful menu that reflects the family's dedication to quality and tradition. From classic dishes that have graced the tables of their renowned Jersey restaurant to innovative creations that push the boundaries of Cuban cuisine, every bite tells a story of passion, expertise, and a commitment to culinary excellence that spans generations. This new restaurant is not just a place to eat; it's a destination where food becomes art and tradition meets innovation in a celebration of the vibrant flavors of Cuba.
Top review
ErinVIP
Dined 1 day ago
Service was friendly and fun, but unobtrusive. Our meals were all over the top delicious- from shrimp to traditional roasted pork to chicken. The congris (black beans and rice combined) was perfect, as were the sweet plantains. We will be back…can’t wait to try it for lunch.
A photo of Taverna Toscana restaurant
4.4
4.4 (46)
$30 and under
Italian
Bradenton
About the restaurant
In downtown Bradenton, Florida, Taverna Toscana is led by the renowned Chef Fabio Viviani, offering an unparalleled Tuscan Italian dining experience. Our steakhouse blends Tuscan charm with modern sophistication, presenting an exquisite menu that transports you to the heart of Italy. The warm ambiance and handcrafted decor complement the authentic Italian flavors and the finest steaks, curated by Chef Viviani, a celebrated figure known for his culinary prowess and appearances on Bravo's "Top Chef." This venture, in partnership with Bradenton's entrepreneur Steve Herrig, symbolizes a commitment to culinary excellence and the revitalization of downtown Bradenton. At Taverna Toscana, we celebrate the shared essence of Tuscany and Florida: warm sun, wonderful people, and a passion for fresh, sublime food. Our indoor/outdoor dining welcomes everyone-from families and foodies to CEOs and couples-with aged steaks, homemade pasta, and crafted drinks in an inviting atmosphere that draws inspiration from Italy itself. Taverna Toscana isn't just a dining destination; it's a bold statement of culinary delight, offering a slice of Italy in Florida's friendliest city. Join us to experience the joy of Italian dining, where every visit promises an indulgent journey of taste and authenticity.
Top review
Karen
Dined on Dec 26, 2024
short rib bolognese was the best ever, anywhere! filet w risotto also a winner. french onion soup was five star as well. overall a great experience.
A photo of element: steak. seafood. pasta. restaurant
4.3
4.3 (1981)
$31 to $50
Steak
Sarasota
About the restaurant
We encapsulate the best and most unique elements of world class dining. We feature pasture raised, hand-cut steaks grilled or seared to perfection, delicate, local seafood, house made pasta dishes with elegant hand crafted sauces and more.
Top review
DeborahVIP
Dined on Jan 12, 2025
Elements is one of my favorite restaurants. The food is always good, and the service is excellent. I always request to sit in the main dining room because it is quieter and a little more cozy than the other dining area.
A photo of Riviera Dunes Dockside restaurant
4.2
4.2 (947)
$30 and under
Contemporary American
Palmetto
About the restaurant
Beautiful award-winning waterfront restaurant at the Riviera Dunes Marina in Palmetto next to the convention center. Featuring fresh seafood and other creative dishes in a casual setting, often with live music. Varied menu, affordable and with something for everyone.

Indoor and outdoor seating available. Our large patio is on the water at the marina and offers views of beautiful boats and sunsets. In addition to our reservable area is our large outdoor bar space with 1st come, 1st serve seating.

Inside are two dining rooms, including our newly remodeled main dining room, another bar and a reservable "Captains Room" that seats 20 (Call for reservations on this)

We can accommodate groups of most sizes but please call for groups of 8 or more.

Top review
Michael
Dined 3 days ago
Jack was amazing and gave us top notch suggestions on the food choices and everyone had an awesome time. It was our first time here and we will definitely be back. Checking the reviews everyone was talking about Gigi but for us it will always be “Just Jack”! Seriously though a great place with live music and casual and fun vibe!
A photo of Rocco's Tacos - Sarasota restaurant
4.2
4.2 (458)
$30 and under
Mexican
Lakewood Ranch
About the restaurant
Rocco's Tacos & Tequila Bar Sarasota serves a diverse menu of authentic Mexican food in a vibrant, casual atmosphere, for locals and tourists alike. Rocco's passion for bringing the best of Mexico's flavor AND fun to life is felt as soon as you walk in the door. Our attention to authentic, fresh Mexican flavors and ingredients can be tasted in all our dishes - enjoy fresh guacamole prepared table side, house made margaritas, and Rocco's uniquely inspired signature tacos. From lunch to late night, for dinner or take out, there is something special waiting for you every day of the week. Be sure to stop in for our daily Happy Hour specials and our famous weekend Bottomless Brunch.
Top review
jean
Dined 3 days ago
Very accommodating. Great service. The mushroom tacos were delicious
A photo of Kona Grill - Sarasota restaurant
3.8
3.8 (1404)
$30 and under
Contemporary American
Sarasota
About the restaurant
Welcome to Kona Grill Sarasota at the Mall at University Town Center. Kona Grill is a classic American Grill with great steak and seafood - complemented by the best choice of sushi and margaritas at any grill in America. Kona Grill features a global menu of contemporary American favorites, award-winning sushi, and specialty craft cocktails in a polished, casual atmosphere. From brunch & lunch to dinner & happy hour, the restaurant offers a range of freshly prepared dishes from the grill, seasonal menu items and fan-favorite dishes across all dayparts. Kona Grill offers both indoor and outdoor patio dining at all its locations, $3, $6, $9 happy hour offered weekdays & NEW weekend brunch, guided by a passion for quality food and exceptional service.



Top review
KimberlieVIP
Dined 6 days ago
The chopped salad and Asian salad were both great!
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