In a stretch of Sarasota that is home to more chain restaurants than perhaps any other, Madfish Grill stands out. And for more than one reason. The colorful logo and signage on Cattlemen Road seem to nod to the bold flavors on the menu, carefully considered by head chef Ben Gough. A firm believer in doing things the right way, Gough exudes a sense of pride when he speaks about the restaurant not unlike the mixture of care and pride you’d expect when hearing someone talk about an old friend. At Madfish Grill, the customer is at the very heartbeat of every decision they make, from preparing a weekly brunch menu (known for its almond encrusted French toast and crab cake benedict and $1.99 Bloody Marys and mimosas) to special events like a Wine Dinner this weekend. Featuring a selection of wines from a Sonoma County winery, the menu will combine flavor profiles that enhance and compliment each pairing. Reservations are recommended. Daily, Madfish Grill offers a menu that “follows the fish”, sourcing local seafood that is bought whole for a fresh selection of fine ingredients. A Massachusetts native, Gough takes pride in serving whole belly clams, which are brought in fresh from the east coast of the northern state and quickly sell out. “We serve them golden and fried,” says Gough with a smile, “the way they’re supposed to be.” 

Madfish Grill is a member of Nosh, the SRQ Magazine content marketing program for local restaurants. 

Madfish Grill | 4059 Cattlemen Road | 941-377-3474 | MadfishGrill.com