In France, visiting a cafe is one of the simple pleasures in life. The pace is often unhurried, with locals lingering over a morning latte or afternoon espresso while reading a book or enjoying a conversation with a friend. Sandrine Maquet and her husband Arnaud Foucher have brought the authentic French cafe experience to Sarasota with Merci Cafe.

“After running successful businesses in different sectors, we turned to making our dream a reality: opening a restaurant that celebrates the French art of living.” says Maquet.

Maquet spent the last twelve years managing a company in the construction industry, where customer satisfaction was an integral part of her role. She brings her excellent customer service skills to the coffee area at Merci Cafe. Maquet selected Cafe Richard coffee, a renowned French brand, and Monin syrups to use in their coffee drinks.

“My connection to Monin is particularly special,” Maquet says. “My mother worked for Monin which was founded in Bourges, my hometown.”

Foucher managed a renovation company for 25 years, but cooking has always been his passion. He inherited his love of gastronomy from his father, who was a restaurateur. Foucher takes pride in introducing guests to authentic French dishes that he has perfected over the years while also offering his own unique culinary creations.

At Merci Cafe, you can find the dishes you’d expect from a classic French cafe. In the mood for something sweet? You can get a golden buttery croissant, plain or with a filling like rich chocolate or pastry cream and fresh strawberries. If you’re looking for something on the savory side, you can opt for a rustic tartine or decadent croque monsieur. Finish your meal with a perfectly foamy cappuccino.

Merci Cafe is open daily from 8:00am to 2:30pm (except in September, when they close on Wednesdays and Thursdays to prepare for the busy season).

“At Merci Cafe, each visit feels like a brief trip to France, even if just for a moment,” Maquet promises.

Merci Cafe, 6112 South Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, 941-217-4851, www.merci-cafe.com. 

Pictured: The Special French Croissant at Merci Cafe comes with luscious pastry cream and fresh, sliced strawberries. Photo courtesy of Merci Cafe.

To learn more, visit.

As our community recovers after Hurricane Helene, we’ve put together a list of ways to help locally and we will continue to keep this list updated with information as we receive it. If you want to help, reach out to all or some of the following organizations.

Florida Disaster Fund: The state of Florida's official private fund to assist residents. Visit volunteerflorida.org to offer cash donations.

American Red Cross: In addition to offering assistance, the American Red Cross takes cash gifts that will be used to help those impacted by the storm. You can give by visiting redcross.org/donate/donation.

Salvation Army accepts cash donations, along with clothing, furniture, and other items. Call 1-800-SA-TRUCK (1-800-728-7825) to arrange a pick-up, or visit give.helpsalvationarmy.org/.

United Way Suncoast has set up a page with resources for receiving assistance, along with ways you can volunteer your time as well as donate. Details are here: unitedwaysuncoast.org/disaster-recovery/

OneBlood has an urgent need for blood following Helene. Visit oneblood.org/donate-now.html for information on how to donate.

Volunteer Florida partner resources: Disaster Legal Hotline is open to assist and refer callers: 833-514-2940; Samaritan’s Purse hotline: 1-833-747-1234 free assistance for homeowners affected by the disaster. Volunteers may be able to assist with removal of personal property and furniture, flood cleanup, sanitizing with shockwave treatment, chainsaw work and Debris Clean-up, temporary roof tarping.

Florida Disaster Legal Aid Helpline: Survivors of any natural disaster seeking free civil legal assistance may apply from anywhere in the state. The number, 833-514-2940, is live during business hours and switches to a message-based system outside of business hours — 24/7 availability.

FEMA Disaster Assistance: Florida homeowners and renters in counties who had uninsured damage or losses caused by Hurricane Helene may be eligible for FEMA disaster assistance. Call 1-800-621-3362 or visit DisasterAssistance.gov.

The FEMA Disaster Recovery Center is open from 1-7 p.m. Monday, Sept. 30 and from 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 1, at the Lakewood Ranch Library.

U-Haul Co. of Western Florida: Offering one month of free self-storage or U-Box portable container usage to those needed space to secure belongings during cleanup. Call 941-359-2413.

Bank of America: Personalized financial assistance for clients affected by Hurricane Helene. Call 855-729-1764.

Florida Rotary: Sign up on RotaryFL.org to submit a needs form.

United Way 211: Calling 211 can connect you with help and referrals to local services.

American Red Cross: The Red Cross website Includes a registry of a variety of disaster response materials.

Community Foundation of Sarasota County Season of Sharing provides one-time financial assistance for essential living expenses. Those who would like to make an impact can donate to Season of Sharing or Suncoast Disaster Recovery Fund at www.cfsarasota.org/donors/support-our-community, or by sending a check (payable to Community Foundation of Sarasota County) to Attn: Suncoast Disaster Recovery Fund or Season of Sharing, 2635 Fruitville Road, Sarasota, FL 34237. All donations are tax-deductible.

Pet supplies available: The Humane Soociety of Sarasota County's Pet Pantry is providing food and supplies for pets in need after Helene, including leashes, collars and food bowls. The Pet Pantry, at 2331 15th St, Sarasota, is open Tuesday-Thursday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Friday from noon to 7 p.m., and Saturday form 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. All supplies are subject to availability. Walk-ins are welcome.

Donations sought: Robert Toale and Sons Celebration of Life Center at Siesta Key is accepting donations of linens and clothing for all ages to be distributed to those affected by Hurricane Helene. Volunteers are also needed. Those in need may drive through to receive donations, or enter the building to find what they need, free of charge.

Drop off items at Robert Toale and Sons Celebration of Life Center, 7454 S Tamiami Trail, between 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. through Sunday, Oct. 6. For more information, call 941-921-5755.

Suncoast Relief Night Fundraiser and Donation Drive (facebook.com/events/1006502418153701/?ref=newsfeed) Help raise money for those in need and enjoy light bites, drink specials, a silent auction, a 50/50 raffle and more at CMX CinéBistro Siesta Key on Thursday, Oct. 3 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. There will also be a donation drive to collect essentials. Saks Fifth Avenue, 3501 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota.

Manatee County Residents: The most urgent needs are cleaning supplies and food for both residents and essential workers. Items needed: Non-perishable unused, unopen food items, bottled water, bleach, mold remover, shovels, wheelbarrows, trash bags, plastic storage bins, toilet paper, paper towels, gloves. Donation drop off locations: Meals on Wheels Plus (Manatee Food Bank) , 811 23rdAvenue East, Bradenton (just off US 301) AND 10920 State Road 70, Lakewood Ranch, Donation Hours: 8:30 am and 4:00 pm. Contact: www.MealsOnWheelsPLUS.org; O'Bricks (Downtown Bradenton), 427 12th St W, Bradenton, Monday to Thursday: 8:00am - 10:00pm, Friday and Saturday: 8:00am - 12:00pm, Contact: 941-896-8860 for specific inquiries. Well Cycle Studio (Northwest Bradenton), 7109 15th Ave NW, Bradenton, Donation Hours: Beginning Monday 9/30, Monday to Thursday: 9:00am - 4:00pm, Contact: 941-737-2923 for specific inquiries. Mean Deans Local Kitchen, 6059 26th St W, Bradenton, Donation Hours: Beginning Monday 9/30, Sunday to Thursday: 11:00AM - 9:00PM, Friday and Saturday: 11:00am- 10:00pm, Contact: 941-251-5435 for specific inquiries.

Additional resources: Crisis Clean-Up Hotline (All Parties): 1-844-965-1386; Samaritan's Purse Hotline (Individuals): 1-833-747-1234; FL Baptist Disaster Relief Hotline (Individuals): 904-253-0502; Private Sector Hotline (Businesses): 850-815-4925 | ESF18@em.myflorida.com; Manatee County Disaster Relief Efforts: Home - Manatee County (mymanatee.org) 

Forestar Group Inc. ("Forestar"), one of the largest residential community developers in the nation, announces the groundbreaking of The Palm Bar, a new restaurant nestled in the resort campus of Star Farms at Lakewood Ranch. With multiple entertainment spaces, including a relaxing outdoor atmosphere with alfresco dining, this dining experience offers the best of Florida-style living. Menu items include tasty foods served hot off the grill and freshly prepared salads paired with frozen and fruity beverages. Groundbreaking ceremony attendees included Forestar team members: Tony Squitieri, West Florida Region Vice President; Ted Gadoury, Land Development Amenity Manager; John Barnott, Investments and Development Director; and Christian Cotter, Region Director of Resort Hospitality. Scheduled to open in late spring 2025, The Palm Bar will be located in The Resort Club, the social hub of Star Farms at Lakewood Ranch. The Resort Club is an innovative, amenity-rich campus, including a hospitality-staffed facility, where members explore interests, stay active and connect with friends. The initial phase showcases a resort-style pool and spa, poolside cabanas and beach areas, a pet park, Trade Route Coffee Shop, Star Fit Wellness Complex - Fitness and Performance Centers, community lawn, courtyard and golf cart parking, The Palm Bar, and outdoor activities. The Terrace – Chef’s Patio, events center, and a mail kiosk are planned for future phases. Upon completion, Star Farms will offer four resort campuses: The Resort Club, Junction Place, Adventure Retreat and Cabana Corner, in addition to greenways and trails. Surrounded by the natural beauty of Southwest Florida, Star Farms at Lakewood Ranch is a multigenerational lifestyle community that offers a unique experience tailored to residents. The thoughtfully designed, 700-acre, gated village is a resort ranch hometown featuring 1,500 single-family homes, paired villa retreats and townhomes with a variety of amenities, clubs and hospitality services. Positioned within the award-winning master-planned community of Lakewood Ranch, Star Farms is minutes from dining, shopping and cultural activities as well as top-rated beaches. Whether exploring new adventures, discovering new passions, meeting new neighbors or finding new ways to connect with nature, Star Farms is an extraordinary place to call home. Visit www.starfarmslwr.com and join the VIP Club for the latest information. 

The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota, a distinguished luxury resort and iconic landmark on Florida’s Gulf Coast, is pleased to announce the opening of Rufa, an al fresco dining and lounge experience. Located adjacent to the hotel’s signature restaurant Jack Dusty Coastal Cuisine and Crafted Cocktails and helmed by their acclaimed culinary team, the resort’s new venue promises to elevate the senses with imaginative cocktails, shareables prepared tapas style, and breathtaking sunset views. Rufa takes its name from the Rufa Red Knot, a shorebird that winters in the Sarasota region, notable for traveling incredibly long distances from the Canadian Arctic to South America and back again. Much like the bird, Rufa presents a coast-to-coast experience with an ambiance that embodies The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota’s promise of providing guests a life “where the land meets the sea.” Situated steps away from the resort’s lush lawn space, Rufa’s thoughtful design grants every seat a grand view of Florida’s Gulf Coast waters. The main seating area on the ground floor is relaxed and spacious, and winding steps take guests to an elevated bar boasting the best views on property. The Johnson Studio at Cooper Carry, a renowned hospitality design firm, thoughtfully imagined the restaurant's ambiance by drawing inspiration from the warm, golden hues of the sun setting over the ocean, creating a welcoming and serene atmosphere. Natural materials used in furnishings and accents of rough forged bronze metals bring in colors from the land, including an acacia wood bar front and quartzite countertops at the forefront of a tumbled marble mosaic back splash. The colors of the sea are accentuated with a palette featuring floral motifs, alongside hints of poppy oranges and pinks all with a rosy hue. Nestled in an exclusive setting, diners can choose from a selection of delectable shareables that take full advantage of the Gulf Coast region’s local bounty. Rufa joins the diverse and vibrant dining scene at The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota, complementing popular venues such as Jack Dusty, Ridley’s Porch at the exclusive Ritz-Carlton Members Beach Club, and the iconic Lido Key Tiki Bar, a Sarasota landmark known for its tropical drinks and beachfront ambiance. Rufa’s opening is part of The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota’s continuous revitalization, which has already seen a floor-to-ceiling renovation of the award-winning The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Sarasota, and a stylish refresh of its signature restaurant, Jack Dusty, featuring new artwork, tableware, and enhanced coastal cuisine offerings.

Beginning October 3, Rufa will open from Tuesday – Saturday, 4pm – 10pm. 

For more information and reservations, visit

BookStore1 Bookseller Roxanne Baker will be moderating a post film talk back at Burns Court Theater this Friday October 4th for the film The Outrun, based on the memoir of the same name by Amy Liptrot.  The movie, starring Oscar Nominee Saoirse Ronan (Lady Bird, Brooklyn), deals with Amy's college drinking problem that spirals out of control after leaving her remote home island in Northern Scotland to attend college in London.  The film starts at 6:30 with the talk following at Burns Court Theater 506 Burns Lane Sarasota, FL 34236.  The book is also available for purchase at BookStore1 Sarasota 117 S. Pineapple Ave. 

To mark the 20th anniversary of the Betty J. Johnson North Sarasota Library, Sarasota County Libraries and Historical Resources is hosting a free event for the community on Saturday, Oct. 12, from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., at 2801 Newtown Blvd. The celebration will feature a variety of activities for all ages, including a keynote address, ribbon-cutting ceremony, live entertainment, children’s activities and community exhibits. The library has been a pillar of the community since its establishment in 2003, evolving from a mobile library initiative led by Betty J. Johnson.  Johnson, who served the Sarasota County community for nearly 40 years at the Selby Library, is passionate about youth literacy and was instrumental in creating a permanent library in Newtown. With the support of the Friends of the Library, Johnson secured a $10,000 grant in 1979 to start a mobile library service, which ultimately grew into the North Sarasota Library. In recognition of her invaluable contributions, the Sarasota County Commission renamed the library as the Betty J. Johnson North Sarasota Library in 2019. The library also honors the legacy of Dr. Edward James II, a beloved community leader who was a strong advocate for North Sarasota. In 2018, the library’s meeting room was named in his memory, recognizing his voice and support for the community. For more information, please visit SarasotaCountyLibraries.org or call 311 or 941-861-1110. 

Sarasota Orchestra kicks off its new season with a special, full orchestra concert for families entitled FREE Family Concert: Orchestra Games. Sarasota Orchestra invites families to come out for an evening of symphonic music in a narrated concert specially designed for elementary and middle school aged audiences. The live orchestra will entertain listeners of all ages with high-energy classical music and favorite popular tunes. Conductor Rei Hotoda, Music Director of the Fresno Philharmonic, leads the concert. Hotoda is the proud recipient of several prestigious awards, including the 2006 Taki-Alsop Conducting Fellowship, created by Marin Alsop to mentor women conductors. Gregory Smith, narrator and architect of The Orchestra Games, is a prolific composer of family and educational symphonic works. A long association with the Walt Disney Company has yielded original themes, songs, and arrangements for their animated features, movies, and all of their worldwide theme parks. His works have enjoyed over 1,000 performances by more than 200 orchestras.

October 11, 7:00 pm, Van Wezel, Tickets free at the door. Visit SarasotaOrchestra.org for more information. 

Sarasota Orchestra kicks off its new season with a special, full orchestra concert for families entitled FREE Family Concert: Orchestra Games. Sarasota Orchestra invites families to come out for an evening of symphonic music in a narrated concert specially designed for elementary and middle school aged audiences. The live orchestra will entertain listeners of all ages with high-energy classical music and favorite popular tunes. Conductor Rei Hotoda, Music Director of the Fresno Philharmonic, leads the concert. Hotoda is the proud recipient of several prestigious awards, including the 2006 Taki-Alsop Conducting Fellowship, created by Marin Alsop to mentor women conductors. Gregory Smith, narrator and architect of The Orchestra Games, is a prolific composer of family and educational symphonic works. A long association with the Walt Disney Company has yielded original themes, songs, and arrangements for their animated features, movies, and all of their worldwide theme parks. His works have enjoyed over 1,000 performances by more than 200 orchestras.

October 11, 7:00 pm, Van Wezel, Tickets free at the door. Visit SarasotaOrchestra.org for more information. 

Creative Liberties continues through October 27 with an exhibition of work by Beck Lane, the new artist-in-residence at Creative Liberties at Arcos Apartments location, 340 Central Avenue. 

Wellen Park is introducing the second phase of Downtown Wellen, which is already more than 65% pre-leased. Due to the success of Downtown Wellen’s first phase, the time is right to introduce additional businesses that will complement existing merchants and restaurant operators. Future tenants include a clothing boutique, a Pilates studio, a hair salon, optometrist, pet boutique, various professional offices and additional restaurants. The new phase will introduce two, two-story mixed-use buildings, adding 44,000 square feet. The first floors will feature restaurants and retail, and the second floors will consist of professional offices. Featuring a signature tower and canopied patios for outdoor dining, the buildings were designed by New Orleans-based Trapolin-Peer Architects, which designed Downtown Wellen’s existing two-story office building located along Wellen Park Boulevard. The second phase also includes a boutique hotel and additional parking. Construction is underway with a tentative opening expected during the first quarter of 2026. The new phase is located on Wellen Park Boulevard, adjacent to Villani & Co. and Foxtail Coffee and close to Tropia luxury apartments. To accommodate any parking impacted by construction, Wellen Park has accelerated the construction of a paved surface parking lot adjacent to the future hotel. The parking lot is scheduled to open October 1. An overflow parking lot was also incorporated into the site several months ago. Phase II downtown tenant specifics will be announced in the coming months, including use types, square footage and locations. For leasing information, contact Justin Boudreau, principal and director of brokerage services at Hybridge, at justin@hybridgecre.com or 813-413-6704. Envisioned as the region’s vibrant new gathering hub for dining, entertainment, shopping and outdoor recreation, Downtown Wellen’s inaugural phase was completed in early 2023 with businesses opening through fall 2023. The 80-acre Grand Lake provides a scenic backdrop, a three-mile trail, The Landing fishing pier as well as paddleboarding, kayaking and fishing. Downtown Wellen emphasizes social and natural connections with unique outdoor gathering areas, including a one-of-a-kind playground, a lakefront fountain and splashpad and the Great Lawn for community festivals, markets, celebrations and events overlooking the stage at Solis Hall. The Yard features retrofitted shipping containers serving casual food and offers outdoor dining and an activity area with yard games. 

Pictured: The new phase is located on Wellen Park Boulevard, adjacent to Villani & Co. and Foxtail Coffee and close to Tropia luxury apartments.