After months of being closed due to extensive damages from Hurricane Ian, the iconic Ole’ Florida Venice Landmark – Snook Haven restaurant – is projected to reopen in December, pending Sarasota County Commission approval on December 13th. Venice Pier Group, the family owned restaurant business which operates Sharky’s on the Pier, Fins at Sharky’s, Snook Haven, and Siesta Beach Eats, came to an agreement with Sarasota County to reopen Snook Haven restaurant pending commission approval. The agreement allows for Venice Pier Group to begin repairs at Snook Haven immediately. The payment of all repairs will be made by Venice Pier Group with the potential for rent credit upon County approval. The agreement will also allow the County to continue to move forward with the future Snook Haven park updates, scheduled to start no later than April of 2024. Snook Haven, located at 5000 East Venice Ave in Venice, Fla., directly on the banks of the Myakka River, endured extreme flooding due to Hurricane Ian and has been closed since September 27 th . The restaurant was submerged for weeks with 3 – 4 feet of standing water. Venice Pier Group employees have been working to get the restaurant up and running as soon as possible, which is scheduled for Tuesday, December 20 th . The date could be pushed back to mid-January pending some renovations. The restaurant won’t be exactly the same as before, but customers can still expect fan favorites they’ve known to love over the years, such as delicious BBQ smoked in-house, craft beers, and live entertainment including the beloved Gulf Coast Banjo Society. Logan River Tours – a one-hour boat tour of the Wild and Scenic Myakka River – will also return. Snook Haven, “Smack Dab on the River”, offers all the history and natural beauty for anyone seeking authentic riverside dining. Off the beaten path on the banks of Myakka River in a natural cove, Snook Haven provides a true old Florida dining experience, with indoor and outdoor seating. Snook Haven’s Backwoods Smokehouse menu features barbecue meats smoked daily in-house, including chicken, pulled pork, shrimp, fresh and smoked fish, and even vegetarian options. Guests can choose from over 30 different beers, including some of Florida’s local craft beers and other international favorites. Snook’s outdoor stage is also home to a rich history of local live music entertainment. Snook Haven is located at 5000 East Venice Ave. in Venice, Fla., and can be reached at 941-485-7221. Visit the restaurant’s website at www.snookhaven.com for more information.

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