Sarasota FL

Art museums are an important community asset. They are full of wonderful exhibits that showcase beautiful works that inspire, motivate, influence and tell a story. Art is such an important tool for learning about the world around us. 

In Sarasota, we're lucky to have the Ringling Museum, a local venue that features relevant art productions throughout the year. This year, they're featuring many modern art exhibits, and our real estate agents are really excited about them. Here is a quick overview of what you can see when you visit:

1. Through Jan 7, 2024: As long as there is sun, as long as there is light." Selections from the Bring Gift and The Ringling Collection of Modern Art.
   This exhibition is the result of a generous gift from Murray Bring and Kay Delaney Bring. Minimalism, monumental, and abstract art styles are all represented in this gallery which promotes themes of nature, spirituality, and perception. This stunning collection is on display through 2024 in the Ringling Museum of Art, which is just minutes from several Sarasota homes for sale.
   
   
2. Through April 2, 2023: The Marvellous Marbling of Matsui Kosei
   Come see five works from renowned artist Matsui Kosei who specializes in delicate marbleized, unglazed vessels. These beautiful objects are created with agateware techniques which were known to be used during China's Tang dynasty. 
   
   
3. Through May 28, 2023: Gods and Lovers: Paintings and Sculptures from India
   This wonderful exhibit showcases Indian paintings and sculptures from private collectors across Florida. The paintings are known as "miniatures", and they were created as leaves of books. They represent stories from Hindu scripture, literature, classical music, and court culture. 
   
   
4. Through March 26, 2023: June Clark: Halem Quilt
   This exhibition was first unveiled at the Studio Museum in New York City in 1997. It's an immersive installation consisting of three hundred pieces of fabric, each consisting of a black and white photo of streets, buildings, and people from Harlem. Now you can see it at the Ringling Museum of Art.
   
   
5. Through April 30, 2023: Community Gallery
   This interactive experience provides a glimpse into the lives of Sarasota artists. It was created to help connect local artists during the uncertainty of the pandemic. In addition to personal interviews, you'll also see some great works from the community.
   
   
6. Through September 4, 2023: Reclaiming Home: Contemporary Seminole Art
   See some breathtaking art from the Native American artist community at this contemporary exhibit featuring works from Florida artists. It aims to grow the framework of Native American art made in Florida.
   
   
7. Through Jan 21, 2024: Guercino's Friar with a Gold Earring
   This exhibition provides a detailed look at the sitter, Fra Bonaventura Bisi, who was a major figure in the artistic culture of seventeenth-century Bologna. See the breadth of his work and artistic ability, which is showcased through his oil paintings, miniatures in tempera on parchment, prints, metalwork, and writings.

When you live near an amazing institute like the Ringling, you can immerse yourself in new cultures and ideas any time you'd like. Contact us today to start your home search.

St. Patrick's Day is coming up on Friday, March 17, 2023. What better reason to go out with your friends, drink some green beer, and maybe even race around the Sarasota area? If you're in the Sarasota area, there are some fun St. Patrick's Day events you may want to attend. Here are a couple of festivals and celebrations our real estate agents recommend.

• Wellen Park St. Patrick's Day Half Marathon & 5K: 19745 Wellen Pk. Blvd., Venice, FL 34293
  If you feel like being active for St. Patrick's Day, consider running the Wellen Park St. Patrick's Day Half Marathon or 5K on March 19. Both races weave through downtown Venice. Proceeds from this race benefit Girls on the Run, an organization that helps guide young girls toward a healthy, active lifestyle. Spend the morning running, then look at some Venice homes for sale. 
  
  
• St. Paddy Shamrock Crawl: 1888 Main St., Sarasota, FL 34236
  If you're in the mood for a bar crawl, the 2nd Annual St. Paddy Shamrock Crawl is a great one to attend. It begins at Raffurty's Bar & Grill on Main Street and winds through downtown Sarasota. Tickets are $17.99 per person.
  
  This event is open to adults ages 21 and up. Show up at Raffurty's between 5:00 and 7:00 pm, buy your ticket, and get ready for a fun night. Stops include The Office, Evie's Tavern, and Pizza & Brew.
  
  
• 22nd Annual Clancy's St. Paddy's Day Bash: 6218 Cortez Rd W, Bradenton, FL 34210
  You can always find a great meal at Clancy's Irish Pub & Grill and if you want a memorable meal along with your St. Patrick's Day celebrations, this is the place to go. For their 22nd St. Paddy's Day Bash on 3/17, multiple performers will take the stage throughout the day and you'll have plenty of Irish dishes to pair with your beer. This includes Irish favorites like Shepherd's Pie and Irish Coffee. 
  
  
• Lucky Leprechaun 5K: 5851 Nathan Benderson Circle, Sarasota, FL 34235
  Looking for another festive run to add to your weekend? Wake up bright and early the Saturday after St. Patrick's Day (3/18) and head to Nathan Benderson Circle for an annual 5K event. Registration starts at $35 for the Lucky Leprechaun 5K.
  
  
• Irish Mexican Celebration: 1213 13th Ave. W, Bradenton, FL 34209
  Birdrock Taco Stand has come up with a fun and unique way to celebrate St. Patrick's Day. They call it their Irish Mexican Celebration. It takes place on Friday, March 17, beginning at 6:30 pm. The Crystal Shawanda and Alex Lopez band will be performing live music. The food will be a unique combination of tacos and Irish favorites.
  
  Admission to the Irish Mexican Celebration is 220 in advance or $25 the day of the event. Grab some friends, and get ready to party.
  
  
• The Venice Symphony: A Celtic Celebration: 1 Indian Ave., Venice, FL 34285
  For a more low-key St. Patrick's Day celebration, attend a performance of A Celtic Celebration by The Venice Symphony. Performers will play Irish folk tunes and music from River Dance.
  
  This show is scheduled for March 17 at 7:30 pm. Tickets range from $33 - $61 per person.

However you choose to celebrate St. Patrick's Day, we hope you have an exciting time. Contact us if you're still looking for Sarasota homes for sale. Our friendly agents will help you find the perfect place where you can relax and unwind. 

It should come as no surprise that one of the best things about life in the Sarasota and Bradenton area is our beautiful coastline. From swimming and surfing to fishing and kayaking, there are endless ways to experience the Gulf Coast, but waterfront dining is one of our favorites. 

At these awesome dockside eateries, you can literally pull right up on your boat, hop out and enjoy a great meal within footsteps of the water. Let our real estate agents be your guide to the best boat-up restaurants near Sarasota!

• O'Leary's Tiki Bar & Grill - 5 Bayfront Dr, Sarasota, FL 34236
  When you picture a waterfront tiki bar in Florida, you're probably picturing something that looks an awful lot like O'Leary's. Located a stone's throw from these Sarasota homes for sale, this popular local watering hole is the perfect dockside stop for lunch, dinner, or drinks. O'Leary's Tiki Bar & Grill serves up some of the best Mahi Mahi tacos around, and they have live music almost every day. 
  
  
• Marina Jack - 2 Marina Plaza, Sarasota, FL 34236
  Located on the waterfront right in the heart of Downtown Sarasota, Marina Jack is a classic spot for waterfront dining. The menu in their elegant dining room is centered around steaks, seafood, and pasta, and they also have an outdoor patio space with a more laid-back atmosphere. As its name might suggest, Marina Jack is also a full-service marina, so if you don't have your own boat, you can rent one here. 
  
  
• Caddy's - 801 Riverside Dr E, Bradenton, FL 34208
  A sandy beach, two tiki huts, boat docks, and an outdoor stage make Caddy's a riverside paradise near the mouth of the Manatee River in Bradenton. You'll find many Bradenton homes for sale near this charming waterfront eatery. Caddy's is also located right next to Nautical Native Fishing Adventures, making it the perfect spot to grab celebratory drinks after a successful day of fishing. 
  
  
• Pier 22 - 1200 1st Ave W, Bradenton, FL 34205 
  With a charming atmosphere that is upscale yet casual, Pier 22 has been one of Bradenton's best dockside eateries since 1976. They serve outstanding seafood entrees and also whip up killer mimosas and bloody Marys, making Pier 22 a beloved brunch spot as well as a great dinner restaurant and happy hour hangout. You can enjoy spectacular views across the water from their patio. 
  
  
• Dry Dock Waterfront Grill - 412 Gulf of Mexico Dr, Longboat Key, FL 34228
  With al fresco dining and a boathouse next door, Dry Dock Waterfront Grill is a perfect place to pull up your boat and enjoy a great meal. Their beautiful location is right at the edge of Sarasota Bay and minutes from these Longboat Key homes for sale. The wide-ranging menu at Dry Dock Waterfront Grill includes everything from salads to burgers, but they're especially well known for their amazing seafood, including locally caught Florida Gulf grouper and red snapper. 
  
  
• Dockside Waterfront Grill - 509 N Tamiami Trail, Venice, FL 34285
  Craft cocktails and fresh fish of the day are always on hand at Dockside Waterfront Grill, a beloved harborside hangout that is as popular among locals as it is among visitors. Just minutes from many Venice homes for sale, this spot has a friendly vibe and lively atmosphere that often includes live music. 

Contact us today to learn more about life on Florida's Gulf Coast. Our real estate agents at Wagner Realty are dedicated to helping you find your dream home in Bradenton, Sarasota, and the surrounding areas. 

February 21 is National Pancake Day, and what better way to celebrate than by digging into a stack of flapjacks at your favorite local breakfast spot? Here in the Sarasota area, we have a wide range of outstanding breakfast restaurants, cafes, and diners, and our real estate agents are excited to share some of our favorites!

• The Breakfast House - 1817 Fruitville Rd, Sarasota, FL 34236
  As you might surmise from the name alone, the folks at the Breakfast House know a thing or two about breakfast. They serve some of the best pancakes in town—light, fluffy, and never too sweet. You can get them with various toppings and fillings, but the Island Cakes, served with coconut, grilled pineapple, and macadamia nuts, are a real favorite here. The atmosphere at the Breakfast House is comfy and homey (it is, quite literally, a house), and it's located within minutes of these Sarasota homes for sale.
  
  
• Station 400 - 400 N Lemon Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236
  Known for serving some of the best breakfast in Sarasota, Station 400 has friendly vibes and a fun location inside a historic train station that was built in 1852. They have some next-level omelets and benedicts, but we're here to talk about the pancakes, which also happen to be excellent. You can choose between buttermilk and buckwheat cakes and order them topped with anything from bacon and salted caramel to lemon curd and fresh blackberries. 
  
  
• Green Zebra Cafe - 1377 Main St, Sarasota, FL 34236
  Offering wholesome twists on breakfast and brunch classics, Green Zebra Cafe is a great option if you're looking for something healthy. Their mouth-watering Famous Raw Pancakes are both vegan and gluten-free, made with dehydrated overnight bananas and served with tempting toppings like cashew whipped cream, strawberry chia coulis, and fresh fruit. If vegan isn't your thing, don't worry; Green Zebra also serves classic buttermilk pancakes with every topping under the sun. 
  
  
• Salt & Pepper Cafe - 608 14th St W, Bradenton, FL 34205
  Salt & Pepper Cafe offers a wide-ranging menu, with breakfast staples as well as unique flavor adventures. Their massive plate-sized pancakes are light and fluffy. Plus, the cafe's convenient location is a stone's throw from many Bradenton homes for sale. Salt & Pepper Cafe has a fun, funky indoor dining room as well as a breezy outdoor patio space. 
  
  
• Sage Biscuit Cafe - 6656 Cortez Rd W, Bradenton, FL 34210
  The pancakes at Sage Biscuit Cafe are airy perfection, and you can order yours with blueberries, bananas, coconut, granola, or chocolate chips if you so desire. They also have a cheerful space with classic diner vibes, which includes counter seating in view of the kitchen. And not for nothing, their French toast and Belgian waffles are also out of this world. 
  
  
• Gulf Drive Cafe - 900 Gulf Dr. N, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217
  Established in 1981, Gulf Drive Cafe has been serving Bradenton breakfast, lunch, dinner, and drinks for more than 40 years now. They make outstanding pancakes, and their Famous Gulf Drive Breakfast (silver dollar pancakes, eggs, toast, choice of meat, and choice of home fries or cheese grits) is a local legend. Gulf Drive Cafe also has an amazing beachfront location where you can step right onto the white sand from their back patio. 

Contact us today to learn more about life in Sarasota and Bradenton. Our real estate agents can't wait to help find your dream home on the Florida Gulf Coast. 

Romance is in the air around Sarasota homes for sale and Bradenton homes for sale. Make it a Valentine's Day to remember with these wonderful nearby restaurants and activities. 

• Vino Vino Restaurant - 2063 Siesta Dr., Sarasota, FL 34239
  Pasta is such a classically romantic food that Lady and the Tramp famously shared a plate of spaghetti on their date night. Vino Vino Restaurant serves authentic Italian food, much as you would find in a charming trattoria. The restaurant focuses on recipes from Puglia, which is the heel of Italy's "boot." Orecchiette, or "little ear" pasta, is the signature pasta of Puglia and featured in several dishes on Vino Vino's menu. Dinner is served Monday through Saturday from 5 p.m. - 10 p.m.
  
  
• Pier 22 - 1200 1st Ave. W., Bradenton, FL 34205
  Enjoy fresh seafood or juicy steaks against the backdrop of the Manatee River at sunset. Pier 22 makes all their award-winning dishes from scratch for top quality. The Valentine's Day menu features upscale favorites, including pork osso bucco, grouper Oscar, and roast duckling. If you prefer, share an assortment of small plates such as escargot, lamb lollipops, and sesame-seared tuna. Save room for tiramisu, crème brulée, or one of the other gourmet desserts. Hours are 11:30 a.m. - 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11:30 a.m. - 10:30 p.m. Friday, 8 a.m. - 10:30 p.m. Saturday, and 8 a.m. - 10 p.m. Sunday.
  
  
• TreeUmph! Adventure Course - 21805 E. State Rd. 70, Bradenton, FL 34202
  Get your heart pumping as you travel far above the ground at TreeUmph! Adventure Course. The wooded grounds span the equivalent of 100 football fields, with five different courses. Make your way across a fun and challenging series of obstacles, including a 600-foot zipline. No experience is necessary. Qualified guides conduct hands-on training at the beginning of your three- to four-hour session. TreeUmph! is open seven days a week. Visit the website for daily start times. Admission is $59 per person. 
  
  
• McCurdy's Comedy Theatre - 1923 Ringling Blvd., Sarasota, FL 34236
  Studies show that a sense of humor is one of the more desirable traits in a romantic partner for both men and women. Strengthen your relationship with some good laughs at McCurdy's Comedy Theatre. Before or after the show, visit the adjoining Green Room East End for drinks and dining. Check the website for the current schedule and pricing.
  
  
• Kayaking SRQ - Ted Sperling Nature Park, 190 Taft Dr., Sarasota, FL 34256
  The couple that paddles together, stays together. Explore the waters around Lido Key and Siesta Key by kayak or paddleboard from Kayaking SRQ. Take one of their guided tours or head out on your own with a two- or three-hour rental. Private tours are also available. Visit the website to make reservations. Prices start at $30 for rentals and $45 per person for tours.
  
  
• Mattison's Forty-One - 7275 S Tamiami Tr., Sarasota, FL 34231
  With Mattison's locations throughout Sarasota and Bradenton, you have multiple options to try Chef Paul Mattison's culinary creations around Flordia's Gulf Coast. For Valentine's Day, enjoy a special menu for their Mattison's Forty-One location. Pair your meal with wine or one of their specialty cocktails. 
  
  
• Marie Selby Botanical Gardens - 1534 Mound St., Sarasota, FL 34236
  Say it with flowers in a big way at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens. Once the home of Marie Selby and her husband William, the 15-acre bayfront property is a festival of flowers, plants, and trees in the heart of downtown Sarasota. Hours are 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily. Admission is $21 for adults and $11 for ages 5-17. 

Feather your own love nest in Bradenton or Sarasota. Contact us at Wagner Realty and let our real estate agents help you find the perfect home.

The arts are alive and well in the Sarasota area! Watch some incredible dancers take the stage at these upcoming ballet performances, just minutes from Bradenton homes for sale and Sarasota homes for sale. 

• In Rep - January 27-30, 2023
  Kick off the new year with a delightful variety of performances In Rep at the FSU Center for the Performing Arts. First up is Frequency Hurtz, a world premiere from Company Dancer Arcadian Broad, who also co-composed the music. The second selection is Shades of Spring, set to the classical music of Joseph Haydn, and choreographed by Jessica Lang. Closing out the program is Façade, featuring whimsical vignettes from noted choreographer Sir Frederick Ashton. 
  
  
• Dance Theatre of Harlem - February 24-27, 2023
  Experience one of the most vibrant and exciting dance companies in the world when the Dance Theatre of Harlem takes the stage at the FSU Center for the Performing Arts. Founded in 1969, the group is known for its blend of dance classics and contemporary, ballet-based routines. The 18-member company carries on their tradition of innovative, forward-thinking dances for the 21st century.
  
  
• La Sylphide - March 24-25, 2023
  La Sylphide, a timeless story of romance, takes on fresh life with this performance by the Sarasota Ballet. The narrative recounts the quandary of a Scottish man who is engaged to a local woman but becomes distracted by a vision of a sylph. Designed by Johan Kobberg, the production is acclaimed for retaining the original Danish feel while rejuvenating the choreography. The program takes place at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall.
  
  
• Tribute to Balanchine - April 28-29, 2023
  Iconic choreographer George Balanchine revolutionized dance with innovations that remain influential to this day. The Sarasota Ballet commemorates the 40th anniversary of his passing with a triple bill of some of his more beloved ballets, held at the Sarasota Opera Hall. First up is Divertimento #15, set to the music of Mozart. Next, The Four Temperaments takes on the ancient Greek theory of "four humours" comprising a healthy body. The program closes with Western Symphony, a charming tribute to the popular "Spaghetti Westerns" and cowboy adventures of the 1950s.
  
  
• Gala Royale - April 30, 2023
  Show your support and appreciation of the Sarasota Ballet by attending this year's Gala Royale. The evening begins with a specially curated performance on the stage of the Sarasota Opera House. Afterward, the party moves to the Circus Arts Conservatory, where guests will dine on a gourmet meal catered by Michael's on East. Desserts and dancing close out this evening to remember. Guests may attend individually or purchase tables for six to 10 attendees. The event starts at 5 p.m.
  
  
• Images of Dance - May 2, 2023
  The aptly-named Images of Dance brilliantly showcases the next generation of talented performers. In a one-time-only performance, members of the Sarasota Ballet join students from the Margaret Barbieri Conservatory for an exciting program of classic and contemporary works. Other local arts organizations participating in this special evening include the Artists Series Concerts, Sarasota Music Conservatory, and Sarasota Youth Opera. Showtime is 7:30 p.m.

Tickets start at $35. Visit the website for specific showtimes.

Our real estate agents will have you dancing for joy with the successful sale or purchase of a home in Bradenton or Sarasota. Contact us at Wagner Realty to get started.

The holidays mark a time of wonder and excitement – not just for kids but Floridians of all ages. If you have been looking at Sarasota homes for sale or Bradenton homes for sale, you'll be minutes from the holiday happenings that locals here anticipate all year. Get ready to make some wonderful memories!

Our real estate agents have been making a list and checking it twice, and now we're ready to share with you some popular ideas for family-friendly fun in the local area. There's always something going on here in Florida's famous sister cities.

Let's take a look at some top picks for holiday fun in Bradenton and Sarasota:

• Holiday Tour of Lights – 3941 Cattlemen Road, Sarasota, FL 34233
  Get excited for an annual tradition with the Holiday Tour of Lights right here in Sarasota. The tours will take off at 6:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m., with boarding fifteen minutes before. The event is planned "rain or shine" and will guide visitors through some of the most beautiful holiday light displays in Sarasota. Be prepared to be enchanted. Tickets are available online right now for just $20 per participant.
  
  
• Mommy & Me Holiday Cookie Decorating Class – 4914 Lena Road #104, Bradenton, FL 34211
  Mommy & Me Holiday Cookie Decorating Class is a chance for kids and parents to get some fun family bonding in time to create something delicious for Santa. Taking place on December 10 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., it will have a reprise on December 17. Sponsored by the local Pineapple Kitchen and Cookie University, five undecorated cookies and icing will be provided, plus professional instruction.
  
  
• 7th Annual Ugly Sweater Bar Crawl – See Website for Location Information in Sarasota, FL
  The 7th Annual Ugly Sweater Bar Crawl will give adults the chance to enjoy some holiday cheer as the group makes its way to some of Sarasota's best bars on the evening of December 10. There will be all kinds of fun, including Christmas movie trivia, a registration party for all guests, DJs playing holiday music, and – of course – an after-party. It's "Bring Your Own Sweater," but commemorative shirts are available.
  
  
• A Christmas Carol – 140 Tampa Avenue West, Venice, FL 34285
  If you are looking for holiday festivities near Venice homes for sale, you surely can't go wrong with A Christmas Carol as performed at the historic Venice Theatre. This venue is at the heart of the community theater scene in the metro area. It will stage Dickens' classic starting December 9. Showings occur Tuesday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2:00 in the afternoon. Be there and experience the magic!

Ready to find a home near all your favorite local events?

Contact us for more insights on the best local real estate opportunities.

Sarasota's historic district offers visitors an incredible opportunity to become better acquainted with the city's past. Spanning over two miles of walkable city space and featuring a variety of cultural, architectural, and culinary attractions, this area is a must-see for anyone traveling near our Sarasota homes for sale. Let's take a closer look at some of the buildings and businesses that make this area so remarkable.

Arts and Culture

One of the downtown historic district's biggest claims to fame is its arts scene. Even though the buildings here are old, the artistic community is very much alive and thriving.

You can visit the Art Centre Sarasota, home of the Sarasota Art Association, every weekday from 10 AM to 5 PM and on Saturdays from 12 PM to 5 PM. This building offers the city's talented artists a place to showcase their best works to the public. On top of the usual exhibitions and juried shows, the center also offers classes and panel discussions to help community members improve their own artistic skills and further their understanding of the field. 

Looking for some live entertainment? You'll find plenty at the Florida Studio Theatre. This venue hosts all kinds of productions, ranging from plays and musicals to improv comedy. It's a fantastic place for a night out, and the historic building that houses these performances is a spectacle in its own right. 

You'll love attending concerts and performances at the gloriously grand Sarasota Opera House. Under its sweeping high ceilings and elaborate balconies, you're sure to feel the majesty of this timeless art form. Our real estate agents are always excited when a new show is announced!

Architecture 

Sarasota's historic district also contains many beautiful old buildings showcasing various architectural styles. Some of these sites have even made their way onto the U.S. National Register of Historic Places.

You can observe the hallmarks of the gorgeous Art Deco style in the ornate fixtures and arches of the Kress Building, an old discount storefront built on Main Street back in 1932.

With a slight detour onto S Orange Avenue, you'll find the imposing marble columns of the Federal Building. This colossal structure is an excellent example of the Neoclassical Revival architecture that was popular in Sarasota during the 1930s.

A little further down Main Street, you'll easily spot the distinctive H-shaped design and Mediterranean influences of the Sarasota County Courthouse. This type of design was another favorite back in the 1920s, but its recent revival has made this building look a lot like many of the trendiest new homes available today.

Shopping and Dining

The historic district is full of small shops and restaurants that are well worth a visit. 

You can experience sumptuous French fine dining at the Bijou Garden Café, a renowned local restaurant housed in a former gas station. This establishment is run by an award-winning local chef and features a menu that changes with the seasons to showcase the freshest and most flavorful ingredients. 

Later in the evening, you can order a few drinks at The Gator Club, the upscale bar and lounge currently occupying the building that was once known as Worth's Block. The building dates all the way back to 1912 and is one of the oldest structures still standing in modern-day Sarasota.

Sarasota's future is sure to be just as exciting and eventful as its past. It's time for you to become part of it. Contact us today to take a closer look at our many homes in Sarasota and find a property where you can begin building your own legacy.

Sarasota has a little bit of everything that makes Florida special, and that includes delicious food. While the area is best known for seafood, there's something for everyone near Sarasota homes for sale. You can try out a new place every week of the year and never run out of things to discover!

Our real estate agents know that having places for a hearty meal, a family outing, or a romantic night out is an important part of enjoying your new community.

Here are some of the local favorites you might like to try:

1. 1592 Wood Fired Kitchen & Cocktails – 1592 Main Street, Sarasota, FL 34236
   1592 Wood Fired Kitchen & Cocktails has a history as one of Sarasota's most beloved Greek restaurants. It still serves up such Mediterranean favorites as gyro kebabs, chicken souvlaki, and spanakopita, plus it has now expanded into neighboring cuisines. The modern menu includes entries from Portugal, Italy, Syria, and Turkey, among others. Its two-course lunch special is one of the most generous in town.
   
   
2. The Bijou Garden Cafe – 1287 First Street, Sarasota, FL 34236
   The Bijou Garden Cafe has been a Sarasota mainstay since 1986. Owner Jean-Pierre Knaggs gives this warm and welcoming eatery a fusion flair that reflects his own French and South African background. The innovative, seasonal lunch and dinner menus mean you will want to stop in after you take in a day at the museum or a night at the theater. The Cafe's desserts are true works of art!
   
   
3. Cafe Epicure – 1298 North Palm Avenue, Sarasota, FL 34236
   Cafe Epicure brings the spirit of the Italian trattoria to Sarasota, offering simple but robust food in an unfussy setting. Pasta, salads, and pizzas anchor the menu, along with small-plate appetizers. The Cafe touts a fine assortment of wines by the glass, providing terrific pairings with mains such as the chicken Milanese and the carbonara. Carpaccio is the most selected starter. Ask about the chef's specials!
   
   
4. Caragiulos – 69 South Palm Avenue, Sarasota, FL 34236
   If you are looking for a neighborhood pizza place to bring the kids or visiting nephews and nieces, then Caragiulos may be the perfect place for you. Kids can craft their own pizzas out of diverse ingredients while adults savor the homemade Foccacia bread and other specialties. These range in complexity from the unassuming spaghetti and meatball platter to the authentic linguine with clam sauce and lasagna.
   
   
5. C'est La Vie – 1553 Main Street, Sarasota, FL 34236
   C'est La Vie is here to bring the joie de vivre to Sarasota through a slate of French classics handmade with an "Old Country" dedication to craft, artistry, and freshness. Crepes, quiches, and croissants are available warm from the oven, filled or topped as you like it. Ideal for a little Parisian-style sit as you nibble your pastries and a small coffee – or a quick jaunt to take those delectable treats home with you.
   
   
6. Drunken Poet – 1572 Main Street, Sarasota, FL 34236
   As the name suggests, Drunken Poet is a Bohemian cafe and has been known to host poetry (slam and otherwise) on occasion. Here, you'll discover an array of Thai, Japanese, and Chinese dishes, all whipped up from a small kitchen while you wait. It has built up quite a following for its versatile list of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free selections, while meat lovers rave about the Thai crispy duck and lamb shank.

Piqued your appetite? Contact us to find out more about Sarasota and neighboring Bradenton.

When moving to a new city, it's important to know what the area has to offer. There are plenty of great Sarasota homes for sale, but where can you go shopping nearby? There are all sorts of wonderful Bradenton homes for sale too, but where can you get a bite to eat around them? You'll want to check out Waterside Place. It has everything you need - with a beautiful lakefront view to boot. Here's a taste of some of the establishments Waterside Place has to offer.

• Crop Juice - 1580 Lakefront Drive, Suite 100, Sarasota, FL, 34240
  If you're looking for breakfast that's healthy, ethical, allergen-free, and delicious, Crop Juice is the place to go. They serve up donuts, croissants, and other menu items, all using the finest quality plant-based, gluten-free ingredients. They also have a wide array of healthy juices to help you get a nutritious start to your day.
  
  
• Monkee's - 1551 Lakefront Drive Ste 104, Sarasota, Florida 34240
  Monkee's provides a great, upscale shopping experience. This fashion boutique sells women's clothes, shoes, and accessories from all different designer brands. They strive to provide a personalized shopping experience that caters to each customer's individual taste.
  
  
• Korê Steakhouse - 1561 Lakefront Drive, Suite 111, Sarasota, FL 34240
  For authentic and delicious Korean barbecue, Korê Steakhouse is the place to go. They use the best ingredients and the finest cuts of meat, from filet mignon to New York strip to short ribs to Wagyu - all made to order. No reservations at this restaurant and no tipping - just delicious food and great service.
  
  
• Tim's Wine Market - 1551 Lakefront Drive Suite 100 Lakewood Ranch, FL 34240
  A family-owned establishment, Tim's Wine Market focuses on smaller production, handcrafted wines that you might not be able to find elsewhere. They have a huge collection available, which means whatever your wine preference is, whether you're just getting started or a seasoned connoisseur, there's something for you.
  
  
• Forked at Waterside - 7600 Island Cove Terrace, Suites 100 & 101 Sarasota, FL 34240
  Forked at Waterside is your perfect Sarasota brunch spot. Serving up all the traditional favorites, from eggs benedict to waffles and French toast to steak and hash browns, and more - plus an array of delicious cocktails, Forked is a great place to gather with friends for a lazy Sunday morning - or any day of the week.
  
  
• Farmers' Market at Lakewood Ranch - 1561 Lakefront Drive Sarasota, FL 34240
  If you're looking for both shopping and dining options, don't forget to check out the Farmers' Market at Lakewood Ranch. Open every Sunday from 10 am to 2 pm, it features over 90 different vendors, selling everything from fresh produce to baked goods to jewelry and more. If you want to support local, independent sellers while also getting food that's fresh and delicious, the farmers' market should be one of your regular stops.

Our real estate agents can help you find your perfect home in a neighborhood that can meet all your needs. Contact us if you're ready to make the Bradenton or Sarasota areas your new home.