SRQ DAILY Nov 1, 2022
Tuesday Dining and Food Edition
"Each of their wines are very unique, and it has been exciting to create a food pairing that celebrates the true flavors of Italy."
When friends reach out for Sarasota restaurant recommendations for a special occasion, I usually give them a list of five of my favorites. State Street Eating House + Cocktails is always on that list, and I was reminded why last week.
Of the countless ways that someone could prepare chicken, I found out during this experience that there is, in fact, a perfect approach: chef Michelle Wolforth’s harissa chicken. It’s butter basted and harissa glazed, with a side of incredibly light and creamy Nora Mill grits, surprisingly flavor-packed glazed heirloom carrots and shishito peppers.
The harissa glaze coats the large, round plate that houses the free range half chicken and its geniously crafted companions. The outside of the chicken is crispy and flavorful. Inside, it’s tender, juicy. Every bite blends so well with the smoky, spicy harissa. There’s a kick to this glaze, but not the type of kick that overwhelms and eventually overpowers the flavor of the meat.
Also worth a bushel of heaping praise is Wolforth’s cioppino. Phenomenally fresh mussels, shrimp, and a catch of the day join with toasted fregola, coriander butter and charred ciabatta. The star of this dish is the spicy tomato fennel broth. I intend no hyperbole when I say that I did not know tomatoes could do this. It’s been five days and I keep thinking about it.
In addition to the delightful elevated American cuisine, no State Street trip is complete without experiencing their craft cocktails, which served as a bookend for us. They were the perfect start to our evening, and punctuated with a nightcap cocktail at the bar next door. In between, a truly memorable meal. A taste of perfection.
State Street Eating House + Cocktails, 1533 State Street, Sarasota, statestreetsrq.com, 941-951-1533.
Pictured: The free-range half chicken at State Street features a harissa glaze that achieves an ideal balance of spice and smoke. Photo by Kevin Allen.
Drink your beer and eat it too! Ford’s Garage, your neighborhood burger and beer joint inspired by the heritage of the Ford Motor Company, invites guests to enjoy a limited-edition Celebration of Craft menu, featuring unique seasonal comfort dishes with a special ingredient – beer. The beer-inspired menu spotlights specialties like: Double Cheese Pub Burger – Half-pound of Grilled Black Angus, Ford’s Beer Cheese, Sauteed Mushrooms, Chopped Romaine, Crispy Onion Straws and Garlic Aioli on a Pretzel Bun. Served with a side of Beer Cheese and Ford’s Fries, Crispy Bacon & Beer Cheese Dip – Ford’s Beer Cheese topped with Crispy Bacon Tomatoes and Green Onions. Served with Pretzel Crostini Dippers, Ultimate Steakhouse Mac ‘N Cheese – Tender, juicy Steak atop Cavatappi Pasta, tossed in Ford’s Beer Cheese and topped with Muenster Cheese Blend, Tomatoes and Green Onions. For the perfect pairing, guests can choose their own adventure with a Ford’s Garage Flight, a classic beer flight, customizable with guests’ selection of their four favorite taps.
Offering a prix-fixe, four-course turkey meal, as well as a limited à la carte menu, Cafe L’Europe will be open on Thanksgiving Day (Thursday, November 24, 2022) from 12pm until 8pm. Festive signature cocktails and wine features will also be available for the occasion. A 100% vegan menu item will be offered as a plant-based alternative (plant-based sausage ravioli). Reservations for parties of up to 8 guests may be made via OpenTable or over the phone. More than 8 people are requested to call. All reservations must be secured with a credit card on file. Cancellations after November 10, 2022 will be subject to a $50 per person cancellation fee. Can’t make Thanksgiving but interested in Holiday Dining at Cafe L’Europe? Reservations for Christmas will be available in early November.
Sage Restaurant is pleased to announce its first wine dinner of the season scheduled for Monday, Nov. 7 from 6:30 - 9 p.m. Presented by executive chef Christopher Covelli, the evening will consist of a five-course dining experience, expertly paired with wines from the Italian based Banfi winery. Cristina Mariani-May, third generation family proprietor of Banfi wines, will be in attendance and guests will have the opportunity to meet and mingle with her. “We are fortunate that we’re able to step up and host this wine dinner with Banfi,” said Covelli. “Each of their wines are very unique, and it’s been exciting to create a food pairing that celebrates the true flavors of Italy. ” This event was originally scheduled to be held at a restaurant in Boca Grande, Florida. When the venue suffered damage from Hurricane Ian, the team at Sage volunteered to host the dinner. Limited to only 100 guests, the five-course meal will be comprised of cannellini and truffle crostini with lobster arancini; seafood raviolo with white wine-saffron cream sauce; bison short rib with eggplant caponata and mushroom demi-glace, and sliced New York strip with arugula, lemon citronette & parmesan shavings. Guests will conclude their meal with a hazelnut and chocolate cake with raspberry coulis. Throughout the evening, each course will be expertly paired with wines from the Banfi collection, including Fontanelle Chardonnay and Magna Cum Laude Super Tuscan. The all-inclusive wine dinner is $195 per person, which includes tax and gratuity. For reservations, call Sage Restaurant at 941-445-5660 or email admin@realmrestaurants.com.
Architect Mark Smith has dealt with county issues on Siesta Key for decades. Now he wants to represent the region and much of Sarasota on the County Commission and advocate from the dais. And he feels a change in how members of the board get elected will empower him to do just that.
“A single-member district has got the undivided attention of one commissioner,” Smith said.
Smith won the Republican nomination in August in Sarasota County Commission District 2. But while that in past years has often been viewed as a coronation, the change to single-member districts also means he has an uphill road in terms of demographics. District 2 as of the latest voter registration report on Oct. 7 serves as home to 25,013 registered Democrats and 23,542 registered Republicans, as well as 17,083 voters with no party affiliation and 1,411 minor party voters.
But he holds a substantial financial advantage. He raised $181,325 to run for the seat compared to Democrat Fredd Atkins’ $87,349.
He also has attended neighborhood meetings, some of which never saw countywide candidates for Sarasota County Commission ever in attendance. He hopes even in Democratic areas, people appreciate his understanding of many issues that transcend political party.
“They have issues like stormwater drainage issues, and we have that on Siesta Key,” he said. “It’s getting the county to respond, and those are the kinds of things we need to tackle. We have air pollution being caused by cement recycling plants, and that needs to be addressed. That’s a serious health issue for families and kids, so that needs to be addressed. It’s a county responsibility, and it’s an issue that before I ran, I wasn’t even aware of.”
But Smith believes as a commissioner, he will be able to address the matter and others effectively, the way he has pushed for positive changes on Siesta Key. He notes a majority of sitting County Commissioners, who are all Republicans, endorsed his campaign.
But he also has a history of success that dates back all the way to 2000, when he advocated for a beautification effort in Siesta Key. New architectural standards helped turn the island into a legitimate world class destination and a paradise for residents. That has helped the entire region by boosting a tourism economy.
He also has pushed for quality of life improvements including better parking management on the island. The same ability to work with county government and elected leaders should make his an effective advocate when it comes to improving sewer service and infrastructure in North Sarasota County.
“These aren’t partisan issues— water quality air pollution, making sure the sewage systems are working so they aren’t dumping sewage into the Bay,” he said. “Talking to neighborhood leadership, they want something done. I’ve told them with my background, I’m confident I can get the two other votes necessary to get what you need.”
The Bazaar on Apricot & Lime is honored to be recognized for not one, but two awards during the SarasotaOut Award Ceremony. They won Favorite Non-LGBTQ+ Owned Business and Favorite Boutique. The Bazaar is home to more than 40 local creators and curators selling unique one-of-a-kind items, clothing, art, gifts, plants, jewelry, vintage, and so much more. Hamlet’s Eatery is located in the courtyard and musicians play live in the afternoons. Open Thursday - Saturday 10-3pm at 821 Apricot Ave in Sarasota. SarasotaOut.com mission is to enrich, promote, and unite Sarasota LGBTQ+ community though supporting and promoting local businesses and hosting LGBTQ+ friendly events.
I AM AN ENTREPRENEUR WHO OWNS multiple business- es and properties in Sarasota. I co-created The Realm Restaurant Group with my partner, Chef Christopher Covelli, and together we own and operate Sage Restaurant and Bijou Garden Café. I am known for saving old buildings and turning them into fine dining establishments. I’ve renovated and redesigned the Sage and Bijou buildings, and I am currently working on restoring two other locations to bring more restaurants and venues to Sarasota. I am an outspoken ally to the LGBTQ+ community, and a founding member of Project Pride SRQ, as well as a board member of Equality Florida and a recipient of the 2021 Voice for Equality award.
I love improving things. When I see something wrong or neglected I want to make it right. When I bought Sage and Bijou my goal was to preserve the buildings, but once I got inside I realized that with a little work I could make them so much nicer. I do a lot with the LGBTQ+ community because I feel like this is another area where I can help to make a difference and maybe make the world a little better. I've witnessed a lot of injustice and inequality. As a child, I was raised around prejudice and misogyny which not only led me to become a voice for equality but also motivated me to create a world where I could freely express myself. MY SECRET SAUCE Follow my passion. If I don't love what I'm doing then I'm not on the right path. Every day I am thankful for my beautiful children, supportive friends, and this incredible life I'm living. YOUR OUTLOOK IN SIX WORDS. Be kind; have fun; be grateful.
In recognition of Veteran's Day, the Manatee County Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller is honoring military veterans and active-duty personnel by providing complimentary passport photos, notary services, and copies throughout November. Complimentary copies include, but are not limited to, marriage licenses, deeds, court records, and more. Also, this includes certified copies. The Manatee Clerk's office implemented this small token of appreciation to say thank you. Applicants must provide a valid form of identification, including a DD214 or military ID, for the waived fees. For more information on accessing the complimentary services, please call our office at (941) 749-1800.
The Nancy and David Bilheimer Capitol Theatre presents The Righteous Brothers Bill Medley and Bucky Heard on Monday, March 13 at 7:30 pm. Tickets go on sale Friday, November 4 at 10 am. Blue-eyed soul pioneers The Righteous Brothers are back! With a string of #1 classics, including the most played song in radio history, You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin’, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame duo of Bill Medley and Bobby Hatfield topped the charts in four decades. After Bobby’s death in 2003, Bill Medley continued to perform to sold-out crowds around the world, but fans and friends pleaded with him to keep The Righteous Brothers alive. Says Medley … "No one could ever take Bobby’s place, but when I caught Bucky Heard’s show it all came together – I found the right guy to help me recreate the magic. The concert experience features their biggest hits – Lovin’ Feelin’, Soul & Inspiration, Unchained Melody, Rock and Roll Heaven, Medley’s GRAMMY® Award-winning Dirty Dancing theme The Time of My Life and much, much more!
Pets! November 2 – 20, 2022. This critically-acclaimed musical revue consists of 22 musical scenes dealing with the very special relationship between people and their pets. It’s clever, user-friendly and suits audiences of all ages. Cats, dogs, mice, turtles, iguanas, parakeets and other species are having the times of their lives. The scenes range from a dog hungrily eyeing his owner’s bagel in “There’s a Bagel on the Piano'' to the hilarious, harried Rumanian dog walker in “I Walk Ze Dogs.” For more information visit www.manateeperformingartscenter.com, Ticket Office 941-748-5875
Manatee Performing Arts Center , 502 Third Avenue West Bradenton, FL 34205
Sarasota Orchestra Presents Acclaimed Guest Artists in November Concerts. Masterworks 1: Symphonie Fantastique runs November 4th-6th at the Van Wezel. Sarasota Orchestra’s first Masterworks program of the 2022-2023 season features works written by three composers at the beginning of their careers. Prizewinning composer Quinn Mason describes A Joyous Trilogy, written in 2019, as “the very embodiment of happiness and cheerfulness.” Grammy-nominated pianist Joyce Yang shines in Grieg’s Piano Concerto, completed when the composer was just 24. The program concludes with Berlioz’s evocative Symphonie fantastique. Tickets from $37, available at www.SarasotaOrchestra.org or (941) 953-3434
Hermitage at Booker: Reggie Harris and the Power of Music, Friday, November 4 at 5:30 pm: Returning Hermitage Fellow Reggie Harris believes that music has the power to unite, the power to uplift, and the power to heal. An international leader in the folk and acoustic music scene for more than 40 years, Harris brings all his skill and charm to Booker High School and invites the community along for the joyful ride. Join this incredible musician and storyteller to rediscover the essential power of music to move us all. Presented outdoors and socially distanced in the Booker High School courtyard in partnership with Booker High School VPA. Registration is required at HermitageArtistRetreat.org ($5/person registration fee). Booker High School Courtyard, 3201 N. Orange Ave., Sarasota, FL 34234.
Booker High School Courtyard, 3201 N. Orange Ave., Sarasota, FL 34234
Sarasota Youth Opera will perform the operatic adaptation of the well-known children’s book by Canadian icon Pierre Berton. Discover the classic story of a group of siblings who venture into the dark subterranean world of the Ogs to rescue their baby brother and cat. This story has been a favorite with Canadian children since its publication in the 1960s. For tickets visit sarasotaopera.org or call +1 941 328 1300 61 N Pineapple Ave Sarasota, FL 34236. For tickets visit www.sarasotaopera.org/tickets-events or call +1 941 328 1300 61 N Pineapple Ave.Sarasota.
NuJazz is a contemporary jazz band from the Sarasota/Bradenton area. They play hits from many artists in the genre such as The Rippingtons, Richard Elliot, Peter White, Spyro Gyra, Boney James and many more. NuJazz is led by Dr. Melvin Price, a local Foot & Ankle Surgeon with MCR Health. Along with accomplished musicians Eric Enfield, Ron Ross, Corey Ross, Gregg Jordan, Keith Allenand Veola Drain. NuJazz brings your favorite R&B tunes to a new level with a jazz twist. For more information visit www.manateeperformingartscenter.com, Ticket Office 941-748-5875
Manatee Performing Arts Center , 502 Third Avenue West Bradenton, FL 34205
Save the date for Friendsgiving, a Dessert and Wine Auction to benefit local shelter animals on November 5th from 6:30 to 9:30 at the Elks Lodge #1511, 2511 75th St. West Bradenton. Delectable desserts made by professional bakeries and gift baskets will be available by live and silent auction. There will be a wine raffle, lite bites and a cash bar. Free to attend. Proceeds benefit: Grace and Friends Medical Fund, Heal My Heart treating heartworm positive dogs, Slumber Fund for dog beds, Traveling Paws transporting dogs to northern forever homes, Enrichment and Food for Ferals.
Elks Lodge
SARASOTA MEDIEVAL FAIR Every Saturday and Sunday running November 5th-27th, 2022 at Woods of Mallaranny (29847 FL-70 E.Myakka City, FL 34251). Welcome one and all to four weekends of exciting tournaments, scrumptious feasts, & pure family fun at the 18th Annual Sarasota Medieval Fair! Live the majesty and madness of knights, jesters, minstrels, acrobatics, wenches, and sword swingers! Watch jousts and human combat chess tournaments! Listen to musical displays of powerful bagpipes and the heart pounding drums. Feast on turkey legs and hearty ales. A full day of entertainment. You will not miss your favorite show as you stroll through the village as the shows repeat several times a day to adjust to your schedule. Get into the fun by wearing your favorite medieval or renaissance garb to feel part of the clan! For tickets visit www.sarasotamedievalfair.com Phone 1-888-303-FAIR (3247)
Woods of Mallaranny, 29847 FL-70 E. Myakka City, FL 34251
The Bradentucky Bombers are excited to announce our next home game on Saturday, November 5th against Swan City Roller Derby, a team out of Lakeland, Florida. Saturday, November 5th at Ellenton Ice & Sports Complex (5309 29th St E., Ellenton, Florida 34222) at 5:00 p.m, doors open at 4:30pm. Tickets are available! Presale—$10 online; Adults at the door—$15; Kids 6-12––$10 at the door; Kids 5 and under FREE! For more information visit www.bradentuckybombers.com or our Eventbrite to purchase tickets (https://www.eventbrite.com/e/bradentucky-bombers-vs-swan-city-roller-derby-tickets-435757411147). Plenty of bleacher seating is available, but for close-up action and trackside seating, bring a chair. Make sure to shake the Florida sand out of your beach chairs before coming in, friends!
Ellenton Ice and Sports Complex , 5309 29th Street East Ellenton, FL 34222
A Tony Award winner for Best Musical, Guys and Dolls tells the story of New York City gambler Nathan Detroit, who dreams of setting up a big dice game while avoiding the authorities—and marriage to his longtime fianceĢe. Meanwhile, fellow gambler Sky Masterson ends up wooing a strait-laced missionary in a scheme to fund the game. WBTT will add its own special twist to this crowd-pleasing show! Performances run October 5th-November 20th, 2022. For more information visit westcoastblacktheatre.org, Ph. 941-366-1505, Box Office questions email boxoffice@westcoastblacktheatre.org
The Donelly Theatre , 1012 N. Orange Ave Sarasota, FL 34236
Amore Restaurant has decided to extend Savor Sarasota Menu through December 18th (not combined with any other offer and, not available on special occasions). Savor Sarasota is a 3 course menu dinner for $35.00 per person. The restaurant offers a Portuguese and an Italian menu. They are open Wednesday through Sunday from 5 to 9PM. Fridays and Sundays 5 to 9:30pm. With indoor and outdoor seating available. Easy and free parking. Menu can be viewed here:https://www.amorelbk.com/savor-sarasota/
Phillippi Creek is the perfect waterfront destination for gathering with family and friends. The award-winning Phillippi Creek restaurant will feature the regular menu with additional specials like fresh Stone Crabs, baked stuffed seafood,, fresh steamed oysters, and oysters on the half shell and Seafood boats for two along with a traditional Turkey Dinner for those craving the flavors of the holiday. For over 37 years, the “Creek” as locals like to call it, has been a favorite to gather for the freshest seafood, cocktails and daily specials for lunch and dinner. Large parties without reservations are welcome for al fresco dining or can enjoy one of the larger tables indoors. Whether early lunch, late afternoon family meal, or a cozy dinner for two, Phillippi Creek is your destination to enjoy the holiday. Thursday, November 24, 2022 Opening at 11a.m.-8:00 p.m. 5353 Tamiami Trail South Sarasota, FL 34231 (941) 925-4444 www.creekseafood.com
Phillippi Creek Oyster Bar, 5353 Tamiami Trail South Sarasota, FL 34231
Book by John Michael Tebelak. Music and Lyrics by Stephen Schwartz. Godspell touches on the parables and wisdom that grapple with maybe the most important mystery of all. It was the first major musical theatre offering from three-time Grammy and Academy Award winner, Stephen Schwartz (Wicked, Pippin, Children of Eden), and took the world by storm led by the international hit, “Day by Day.” Godspell features a parade of beloved songs, including “Prepare Ye the Way of the Lord,” “Learn Your Lessons Well,” “All for the Best,” “All Good Gifts,” “Turn Back, O Man” and “By My Side.” March 9-19, 2023. For tickets visit theplayers.org, Ph. 941-365-2494, email BoxOffice@ThePlayers.org
The Players Centre For Performing Arts, Performance Venue & Box Office The Crossings at Siesta Key 3501 South Tamiami Trail, Suite 1130 Sarasota, FL 34239
The Sarasota Ballet is excited to announce the Company’s 2022 – 2023 Season. Over seven programs, The Sarasota Ballet will perform 15 works by some of the most celebrated and prestigious choreographers and composers of the ballet world. Program 5 - Dance Theatre of Harlem. February 24-27, 2023 at FSU Center for the Performing Arts. The Sarasota Ballet Presents: Dance Theatre of Harlem. For more information visit www.sarasotaballet.org, Box office 941.359.0099
The 25th Annual Thunder By The Bay Music & Motorcycle Festival. The iconic three-day Festival, organized by and benefitting Suncoast Charities for Children, is scheduled for February 17-19 at the Sarasota Fairgrounds. Continuous live music will be featured throughout the weekend, and attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets for outdoor seating in front of the stage. The Festival plans to feature over 100 vendors, a 17-class bike show, a motorcycle stereo sound off competition, motorcycle freestyle demonstrations, a tented full bar area with seating, a “little riders” kid zone, a food court, “Thunder Alley” inside Robarts Arena and so much more! For tickets, vendor information, sponsorship opportunities, and a complete listing of all Festival events visit: THUNDERBYTHEBAY.ORG | (941) 487-7904.
Sarasota Fairgrounds
THAT MUST BE THE ENTRANCE TO HEAVEN by Franky D. Gonzalez. A World Premiere. June 9 - July 9, 2023. Urbanite Theatre. Glory. Survival. Legacy. Citizenship. Four Latino boxers all chase a world title to achieve their personal versions of heaven. But to get there, they must battle each other, their own battered bodies, and the universe itself. All four men walk the line between life and death in this poignant, poetic collision of combat and cosmos. For tickets and info contact - phone (941) 321-1397, email info@urbanitetheatre.com, website www.urbanitetheatre.com.
Urbanite Theatre , 1487 2nd Street Sarasota FL, 34236
The hilarious new play CHICKEN & BISCUITS introduces us to the Jenkins family, as they gather to celebrate the life of their beloved and recently deceased father and grandfather, the Revered Bernard Jenkins. When an unexpected guest reveals a secret, they all discover that nothing brings a family together like a big side of drama. This side-splitting new Broadway comedy explores the tenderness of family, the joy of reconciliation, and the nourishing power of love. Written by Broadway newcomer Douglas Lyons and directed by the talented Bianca LaVerne Jones, who was associate director of the 2021 Broadway production, CHICKEN & BISCUITS proves that while family may drive us crazy, we’re lucky to have each other.
Asolo Repertory Theatre
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