Exciting New Eateries and Fun Spots Opening Across Sarasota!

Ormond Beach, Florida, United States - The culinary scene in Sarasota and surrounding areas is booming, with an array of new eateries popping up and some beloved establishments undergoing exciting transformations. Gastronomes have reason to celebrate as fresh dining options emerge throughout the region.

In a recent turn of events, Five-O Donut Co. has decided to close its original location at 2241 Ringling Blvd. in the Shops at Siesta Row, opting not to renew its lease. However, the popular donut chain continues to sweeten the community through its other locations at University Town Center, 81 N. Cattlemen Road in Sarasota, 5942 34th Street W. in Bradenton, and 2211 60th Ave. E. in Ellenton. Notably, the Ellenton spot opened its doors in December 2023, adding to the excitement of the local food scene, especially with the upcoming grand opening of Dog Bar Sarasota.Patch reports that the Dog Bar will officially open on July 19, featuring an indoor, air-conditioned off-leash park and a host of playful activities for pets, including a Doggy Foam Party.

New Beginnings for Old Favorites

The Bradenton Boiler Room, which had been closed since 2020, has also made a comeback as the Boiler Room Bar and Grill. Under new ownership led by Staci Wilkinson, it aims to honor the venue’s legacy while introducing new menu items that promise to delight diners.

Another fresh venture to note is Ballerz Pinball Cafe, which recently opened its doors at 412 Old Main Street in downtown Bradenton. With 13 pinball machines and arcade video games, this cafe offers a $10 day pass for unlimited play, making it a fun destination for those looking to unwind with friends.

Meanwhile, Maryland’s beloved Ledo Pizza is serving up its famous rectangular pies at 1091 Toledo Blade Blvd. in North Port. The chain is known for its unique smoke provolone cheese and sweet tomato sauce, and it now joins the ranks of other Ledo Pizza locations in Florida, including Tampa and Ormond Beach.

A Taste of What’s New

As if that wasn’t enough for food lovers, the restaurant landscape has exploded with 35 new additions in Sarasota and Manatee counties over the past year. These new establishments cover a diverse range of cuisines and dining experiences. According to the Herald-Tribune, notable inclusions among the best new restaurants are:

• Acqua Pazza Coastal Italian in Wellen Park, Venice (Opened December 2023)
• Arts & Central in Sarasota’s Rosemary District (Opened February 2024)
• Taverna Toscana in Bradenton by celebrity chef Fabio Viviani (Opened April 2024)
• The Fat Rabbit in downtown Sarasota (Opened May 2024)
• Cuba 1958, serving traditional Cuban dishes (Opened June 2024)

From indulging in Neapolitan pizza at 15 South by Napulé to savoring creative cocktails at Rufa, there’s no shortage of delectable experiences to be had. With summer well underway, food enthusiasts and families alike have plenty to explore in this festival of flavors.

It’s clear that Sarasota is on the map as a culinary hotspot with new venues like Dog Bar, Ballerz Pinball Cafe, and the revitalized Boiler Room Bar and Grill stepping up to the plate. So, grab your friends, unleash your appetite, and dive into the scrumptious offerings that await!