« Back To SRQ Daily Archive

SRQ DAILY Dec 3, 2024

Tuesday Dining and Food Edition

Tuesday Dining and Food Edition

"Anytime I do any cocktail like this, it makes me feel a connection to my roots and my ancestors."

- Ana Maria Romero Mena, Tequila Expert.
 

[Giving Tuesday]  Happy Giving from the SRQ Team

As we emerge from the Thanksgiving holiday and the comforts of our festive meals, Giving Tuesday inspires us to carry forward the spirit of generosity and support nonprofit organizations. Every year, on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving, we are encouraged to make a positive impact—whether through volunteering, donating or spreading awareness about the important work of these organizations.

In our To-Do section today, you'll find a list of local organizations participating in Giving Tuesday. Click on each organization to access their donation platforms. If you don’t see a specific organization you're passionate about, we encourage you to reach out to them directly to learn how you can contribute. 

[The Dish]  Renowned Tequila Expert Brings Her Knowledge to Sage
Kate Wight, kate.wight@srqme.com

“Ana María Romero Mena is a badass woman in the tequila industry,” says Clio Padilla-Flores, the bar manager at Sage Restaurant in Sarasota.

Mena is a highly-regarded expert and innovator in the tequila industry. Originally a wine sommelier, Mena created an aroma wheel that is used by tequila makers around the world and published a book called The Aromas of Tequila: The Art of Tasting. Now a maestra tequilera (or master distiller) with premium tequila brand Mijenta, Mena is bringing her deep well of knowledge to Sage Restaurant for an exclusive Mijenta Tequila Dinner on Thursday, December 5th, at 7pm.

Padilla-Flores attended a tasting class for Mijenta at an industry event a few years ago and became a fan of the brand and of Mena herself. When her distributor mentioned Mena would be in Florida, Padilla-Flores jumped at the chance to create a unique event that is akin to a wine tasting, but revolving around Mijenta tequila.

“It’s all super sustainable. There are no additives, no additional syrups or extracts,” she says. “It’s just true to the heart of what tequila should be.”

Executive Chef Christopher Covelli and Co-Executive Chef Vinnie Savadel created an inspired menu blending modern fine dining with authentic Mexican cuisine in a playful and inventive way. Five courses will be served, including corn soup with a huitlacoche empanada, caviar and crème fraîche, each paired with a tequila. Padilla-Flores has designed tequila cocktails incorporating indigenous Mexican ingredients to accompany the meal--the cocktail for this course will incorporate tequila that has been fat-washed with butter that has been used to saute huitlacoche and herbs.

“I like to represent my culture. I moved to the states in 1994 and haven’t been able to visit Mexico since then,” says Padilla-Flores. “Anytime I do any cocktail like this, it makes me feel a connection to my roots and my ancestors.”

This all-inclusive dinner is $245 per person, including tax and gratuity. For reservations, call Sage at 941-445-5660 or email admin@realmrestaurants.com.

Sage, 1216 1st Street, Sarasota, 941-445-5660, www.sagesrq.com. 

Pictured: Lead bartender Clio Padilla-Flores designed custom craft cocktails for Thursday's Mijenta Tequila Dinner at Sage. Photo courtesy of Sage.

[The Dish]  Pineapple Kitchen Murder Mystery Dinner Theater

Save on any of our Pineapple Kitchen Mysteries through February 2025. Use online coupon code & save $25 /weat. Coupon good till the Monday - December 2, 2024! Code: blackfriday25. We Love Team Building Events, Birthday Celebrations, Friends Night Out and Anniversaries! 

[Shopping]  Saks Fifth Avenue Partners With The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota to Bring The Fifth Avenue Club Experience to Sarasota

Saks Fifth Avenue, the leading name in luxury shopping, has partnered with The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota to expand the retailer’s luxury personal shopping and styling service, The Fifth Avenue Club, in the Sarasota area. In addition to Saks Fifth Avenue Sarasota at the Mall at University Town Center, The Fifth Avenue Club Sarasota at The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota is an extension of the luxury retailer’s existing Fifth Avenue Clubs, which have historically been housed within Saks Fifth Avenue stores and provide customers with highly personalized service. 

[Hurricane ]  Marie Selby Botanical Gardens Downtown Sarasota Campus Now Fully Open

As of Monday, December 2, the entire Downtown Sarasota campus of Selby Gardens is open for its regular hours of 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily! In addition, the campus will be fully open and aglow with more than two million lights, festive photo opps, activities & entertainment for the whole family to enjoy! Lights in Bloom has proudly been ranked in USA Today 10Best Readers' Choice contest for Best Botanical Garden Holiday Lights in the country! Food and beverage will be available for purchase. In addition to our festive vendors, food trucks, and the Michael's On East Food Tent, The Green Orchid by Michael's On East will be open from 5 to 9 p.m. for full dinner service during Lights in Bloom®! No reservations, walk-ins only.  

[Arts & Entertainment]  December Events at Creative Liberties

Limited tickets left! Explore Sarasota’s vibrant arts scene while savoring a progressive dinner during Gaze & Graze. Guests will visit six gallery locations via trolley and the event features art, small-plate courses from local restaurants, and narration about the local arts community. Stops include Creative Liberties Artist Studios, Define Gallery, SPAACES, Art Ovation Hotel, and more. With space limited to 30 guests, tickets must be purchased in advance. Check-in begins at 4:45 p.m. at Creative Liberties, 901 Apricot Ave., Sarasota. Don’t miss this unique evening of art, cuisine, and connection! To register, visit www.creativeliberties.net. 

[Arts & Entertainment]  The Venice Symphony's Home for the Holidays Concert with Liz Callaway

The Venice Symphony invites you to kick off the holiday season with the annual Home for the Holidays concert, a heartwarming celebration of music, joy, and togetherness. On December 20, 21, and 22, the Venice Performing Arts Center will come alive with festive melodies perfect for the entire family.
This unforgettable evening will feature a collection of cherished Christmas carols and holiday tunes, including The First Noel, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, Sleigh Ride, and We Wish You A Merry Christmas. The concert will be a true feast for the ears as The Venice Symphony, Key Chorale, special guest vocalist Liz Callaway, and Venice Symphony Concertmaster Marcus Ratzenboeck on electric violin, join forces to bring the holiday spirit to life. 

Photo courtesy of The Venice Symphony.

[Arts & Entertainment]  Funny Girl is Coming to the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall January 14-19

After an extremely active hurricane season that canceled multiple Van Wezel shows, the Hall is ready to say, “Don’t Rain On My Parade” and welcome Broadway back to Sarasota! FUNNY GIRL, the sensational musical comedy revival, is coming to Sarasota for a limited one-week engagement from January 14 to January 19. Tickets are currently on sale at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall Box Office located at 777 N. Tamiami Trl., by visiting VanWezel.org or by calling 941-263-6799. 

[Donations]  One Warm Coat Giveaway

Turning Points is excited to announce its One Warm Coat Giveaway event, taking place on Saturday, December 7, 2024, from 9:00 am - 11:00 am at Turning Points located at 701 17th Ave West, Bradenton, FL 34205. Everyone is invited to this special event. This family-friendly event promises to bring warmth, joy, and community togetherness this holiday season with: free coats: over 2,000 coats for men, women, and children, generously donated by Goodwill Manasota, free books & toys: every child will receive books and a toy to take home, free snacks & activities: face painting, games, and fun activities for kids, community resources: connect with local partners offering valuable information and services.  

For more information about Turning Points click here.



[SB2]  Giving Coast Luncheon

Reminder - SB2 Giving Coast Luncheon has been moved to Tuesday, January 28th, 2025 at Michael's On East.  

Buy Your Tickets Here

[Forage]  One World Ambrosia
Andrew Fabian, andrew.fabian@srqme.com

Stella's Greek Cuisine brings big flavors to a humble space on Swift, December 2024. 

Read Here!

[SOON]  GRAB BAG: The Ringling Giving Tuesday , December 3

The back-to-back hurricanes last month were hard on many arts organizations in the Sarasota community, including The Ringling. Yet, our story is one of resiliency and rebirth. Many of you have asked how you can help us. You can support us during Giving Tuesday, a global generosity movement, unleashing the power of people and organizations to transform their communities and the world.

The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota, FL 34243

[SOON]  GRAB BAG: Child Protection Center Giving Tuesday , December 3

Join us on Dec 3rd for Giving Tuesday, a global day of generosity. Giving Tuesday is the kick-start to our End of Year $118,000 goal, and we’re hoping to start off strong by raising $10,000! Be sure to save the date OR make an early gift today to bring healing to abused children.

Child Protection Center, 720 S Orange Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236

[SOON]  GRAB BAG: Education Foundation Giving Tuesday , December 3

This fall, our community experienced devastating damage from three hurricanes, and this included our local schools, classrooms, teachers, students, and families. Now more than ever, school communities can use a helping hand. How we respond in moments like these shows us our humanity and resilience. Please take a moment this holiday season to support our community on Giving Tuesday. A gift of money or time will make a difference to tomorrow’s leaders.

Education Foundation, 1960 Landings Blvd #120 Sarasota, FL 34231

[SOON]  GRAB BAG: ALSO Youth Giving Tuesday , December 3

This Giving Tuesday, your support can help us rebuild—not just in a physical sense, but by fortifying our capacity to provide the critical resources our youth depend on, now more than ever.

ALSO Youth, 1470 Boulevard of the Arts, Sarasota, FL 34236

[SOON]  GRAB BAG: Art Center Sarasota Giving Tuesday , December 3

During challenging times, art and community provide comfort, creativity and camaraderie. That's why Art Center Sarasota is so important. For nearly 100 years, artists and art lovers have gathered here to enjoy the magic and healing power of art. The Art Center has been a constant presence in Sarasota and we need your support to continue to be a home to artists and art lovers. 

Art Center Sarasota, 707 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, FL 34236

[SOON]  GRAB BAG: Sarasolo Giving Tuesday , December 3

As arts funding is being cut in Florida we are depending more and more on the generosity of individual gifts. As a SaraSolo supporter you have helped our students, adult participants, and professionals to thrive. We know that you have many organizations to remember during this time of giving and we are eternally grateful when SaraSolo is included.

[SOON]  : Sarasota Cuban Ballet School Giving Tuesday , December 3

Giving Tuesday is a global day of giving - an opportunity to showcase the power of people and organizaions to transfrom their communities. Now more than ever, we couldn't do what we love to do - share your passion for ballet - without your support. Stay tuned!

Sarasota Cuban Ballet School, 4740 Cattlemen Road Sarasota, FL 34233

[SOON]  GRAB BAG: The Perlman Music Program Suncoast Giving Tuesday , December 3

You make the difference in these young musician's lives.You make it possible to bring this exceptional music, from the PMP Winter Residency to the PMP alumni performances, to our community. Thank you!

The Perlman Music Program Suncoast , Sarasota, FL 34230

[SOON]  GRAB BAG: Climate Adaption Center Giving Tuesday , December 3

Giving Tuesday is a vital opportunity to support nonprofits like the Climate Adaptation Center, which works to protect communities from the impacts of climate warming. This year, your donation goes twice as far with a generous $10,000 matching challenge—every dollar makes a difference!

Climate Adaption Center

[SOON]  GRAB BAG: Sarasota Contempory Dance Giving Tuesday , December 3

We are committed to giving back to the community by making dance accessible and enjoyable for all! SCD is thankful for our community classes, Main Stage performances, In-Studio Performances, SCD Ensemble Company, and to YOU who make it all happen!

Sarasota Contempory Dance Giving Tuesday, 1400 Blvd of the Arts Ste 300, Sarasota FL 34236

[SOON]  GRAB BAG: Ear Research Foundation Giving Tuesday , December 3

The Ear Research Foundation, Inc. serves individuals of all ages with hearing loss, hearing impairments, and balance disorders. Our community outreach Your donation allows us to support the hard of hearing community, and people with hearing impairments experience their life to its full potential.

Ear Research Foundation, 1901 Floyd Street, Sarasota, FL 34239

[SOON]  GRAB BAG: New College Giving Tuesday , December 3

Donors like you have the ability to make a great impact at New College of Florida. Thanks to your generous support, we have achieved 16 Successes in 16 months that have been critical to pursuing our mission of becoming the #1 liberal arts college in the nation. Make a donation this #GivingTuesday to keep these great accomplishments going! We are making great strides toward becoming the exemplary model for liberal arts education.

New College of Florida, 5800 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota, FL 34243

[SOON]  FOOD: Cask & Ale's Sunday Jazz Brunch , September 15 – December 29, 11:00 am - 3:00 pm

Cask & Ale on Main Street lifts a toast to our fabulous Jazz Brunch every Sunday from 11:00-3:00.  We offer a diverse chef-prepared menu with a full spread of Brunch delectables + our rotating Chef's Special menu, Bottomless Mimosas and a wide selection of craft cocktails.  And of course, sharing the good vibes of live Jazz with you from Noon-4:00!

Cask & Ale, 1548 Main St, Sarasota, FL 34236

[SOON]  FOOD: Game Watching at Pie on Main , September 10 – December 31, 11:00 am - 12:00 am

Since we opened in January, SRQ is getting to know us for our hand-tossed & crafted Pie's, Calzones, Sammies & Salads + our tasty beverages. Now you can join your buddies for what some call 'the most wonderful time of the year' - FOOTBALL SEASON! Drop in when you're strolling on Main to catch your team or join your buddies for Pie On Main's Game Watching parties, featuring Happy Hours from 4-7:00 Daily, plus our Special Sub of the Day and extensive selection of Domestic and craft taps. Ask your friendly barkeep about our Tuesday Karaoke or our sister restaurant, 3.14 Pi in Siesta Village. Convenient parking in our lot on First Street.

Pie on Main, 1507 Main St, Sarasota, FL 34236

[SOON]  FOOD: Farmers Market at Lakewood Ranch , September 3 – September 30, 10am-2pm

Experience some of the best food and flavors of the region with more than 100, and still growing, curated vendors. The Farmers Market at Lakewood Ranch has fast become a favorite weekly tradition for people from all over the region seeking farm-fresh produce, delicious prepared foods, and specialty items and gifts. Aside from all the goodies you can shop at the Farmers Market, find your flow in a free yoga class or have the kiddos get creative during weekly-hosted workshops. 1561 Lakefront Dr., Lakewood Ranch.

[SOON]  FESTIVAL: Wellen Wonderland , December 5 – December 12, Various Times

Wellen Park expanded its annual holiday celebration to eight days this year, bringing the sights and sounds of the holidays to Downtown Wellen. Festivities include the traditional tree lighting ceremony, photo ops with Santa, live music and performances by local school and community choirs, and even a snow party. Guests can also explore the Cottages for Kids Holiday Village, benefiting the Salvation Army. 

Various Locations

[SOON]  : New Years Eve at Waterside Place , December 31 – January 1, 6:00 pm

Ring in the New Year with us at Waterside Place Plaza for a breathtaking live Sky Elements Drone Light Show presented by Waterside Place and Capstan Financial Consulting Group. Dance the night away with live music by DJ Truth, indulge in tasty food trucks, including delicious desserts and drinks, and enjoy games and activities for all ages!

Waterside Place at Lakewood Ranch, 1510 Lakefront Dr, Sarasota, FL 34240

[SOON]  GALA: NocheUnidos , January 31, 7:30pm

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage month with UnidosNow and The Ringling at the third annual NocheUnidos, a collaboration between The Ringling and UnidosNow. This elegant evening, held in the magical Museum of Art Courtyard, features dining, dancing, music, and fellowship that honor the rich and dynamic cultures that have influenced our Gulf Coast community, including the African diaspora, Indigenous America, and Europe. The event kicks off with festive Puerto Rican rhythms from Bomba Yemayá and parades into the night with an upbeat Mardi Gras spirit captured by the New Orleans-based 79rs Gang. Dress in white to call in the season with elegancia as we come together to honor unity and the riches of our region.

The Ringling, 5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota, FL 34243

[SOON]  BUSINESS: Lets Connect at Oscura in Old Manatee , August 31 – December 26, 8:30-10am

Connect with local business owners at every Thursday at Oscura. Lets Connect is a community of collaborative business professionals from the Manatee and Sarasota County areas. RSVP on Eventbrite to attend, admission is free.

[SOON]  FOOD: Watershed Hospitality Concepts Launches our Annual Holiday Gift Card Sale Extravaganza! , November 2 – January 2

Whether they're Naughty or Nice, the Watershed Hospitality family of restaurants has the gift sure to please everyone on your Holiday list!  From Nov. 21 - Jan. 2, when you purchase $50, get a $10 Bonus or a $20 Bonus when you purchase $100.  Our GC's are good at all of our restaurants, Cask & Ale, Pie On Main, 3.14 Pi/Blase Martini Bar ...and SOON, when we cut the ribbon to welcome you to Lefty's Oyster & Seafood Bar.

Multiple Location

SRQ Media Group

SRQ DAILY is produced by SRQ | The Magazine. Note: The views and opinions expressed in the Saturday Perspectives Edition and in the Letters department of SRQ DAILY are those of the author(s) and do not imply endorsement by SRQ Media. Senior Editor Jacob Ogles edits the Saturday Perspective Edition, Letters and Guest Contributor columns.In the CocoTele department, SRQ DAILY is providing excerpts from news releases as a public service. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by SRQ DAILY. The views expressed by individuals are their own and their appearance in this section does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. For rates on SRQ DAILY banner advertising and sponsored content opportunities, please contact Ashley Ryan Cannon at 941-365-7702 x211 or via email

Copyright © 2024 by SRQ Media Group, 331 South Pineapple Avenue, Sarasota, FL 34236.
Powered by Sarasota Web Design | Unsubscribe

Read More

Making His Mark

Making His Mark

Kate Wight | Dec 1, 2024

Comic Corner

Comic Corner

Barbie Heit | Dec 1, 2024

Manatees on Main

Manatees on Main

Eliana Burns | Dec 1, 2024

Well-Crafted

Well-Crafted

Kate Wight | Dec 1, 2024