SRQ DAILY Jan 28, 2025
Tuesday Dining and Food Edition
"We just want to have a great brand of hospitality going forward, fun and light and value-oriented."
“Oysters are a hobby of mine,” says Mike Quillen. “I’ve traveled all over the world trying oysters and was never able to actually do this concept that I wanted to do for a long time. So we’re very excited.”
Quillen is the president of Watershed Hospitality Concepts, a locally-owned restaurant group in Sarasota specializing in quality, locally-inspired fare. The group’s latest venture, Lefty’s Oyster & Seafood Bar, officially opened last night on Monday, January 27th. Located in the historic Rosemary District, the eatery is located in a renovated auto body shop, sharing space with Mandeville Beer Garden.
“Lefty’s is a tribute to old Sarasota. It’s a metal building, it’s rustic. We have three big garage doors that open up into a beautiful outside trellis that almost covers the whole outside,” Quillen says. “We’re really excited about the landscaping and the curb appeal.”
What’s even more appealing than the decor is the menu itself. The seafood-forward menu is hyperlocal - Quillen grew up in the area and has used his almost fifty years of connections to source as many ingredients as he can locally, including Cedar Key clams, Gulf grouper and even the herbs used in Lefty’s signature craft cocktails.
And of course there will be oysters, served steamed, grilled, New Orleans-style and Rockefeller-style, not to mention oyster shooters. Lefty’s will source the best oysters from all over—Apalachicola, Virginia, South Carolina, Chesapeake, Massachusetts and more.
“We just want to have a great brand of hospitality going forward, fun and light and value-oriented,” Quillen says. “We’re here to be your neighborhood oyster bar.”
Lefty’s is open from 11am to 10pm Sundays through Thursdays and 11am to 12pm Fridays and Saturdays.
Lefty’s Oyster & Seafood Bar, 428 North Lemon Avenue, Sarasota, 941-954-8688, leftysoysterseafood.com 
Pictured: The Watershed Oyster Shooter at Lefty's has a fresh oyster paired with a shot of Tito's Vodka and a splash of bloody mary mix with a Tajin rim.
This February, The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota is leaning into the season of love with festive sips and bites at Jack Dusty and Rufa, the resort’s new al fresco dining and lounge experience.
Join us on Main Street for the Best Seat outside of New Orleans at Pie On Main. We'll have food & bar specials, specialty shots & our hand-tossed Pie's, Calzones, Sub's and Salads. Every quarter we'll have some SUPER GIVEAWAYS! Reserve your seat today with any of our friendly tap masters or servers and bring your Big Game party here! We'll help you celebrate the last game of the season at your favorite game-watching spot on Main Street.
A bourbon dinner? Call us old fashioned. Savor a five-course meal at Jack Dusty Coastal Cuisine and Crafted Cocktails curated by Specialty Chef Joe Bennett. Experience interactive cocktail pairings crafted by The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota's award-winning lead bartender Heidi Finley and specialized Angel's Envy tastings from bourbon expert Jenna Athey. At the end of the evening, each attendee will be sent home with a DIY ‘Bubble Bee’ cocktail kit complete with an exclusive engraved mini Angel’s Envy bottle. Reservations can be made by contacting maria.adarmes@ritzcalton.com.
Kick off your weekend with the perfect blend of fresh flavors, fantastic tunes, and family fun at the 6th Annual Englewood Seafood & Music Festival, happening January 31 – February 2, 2025, at Dearborn Street Plaza (348 W. Green Street). Admission is FREE, so bring your appetite for fun!
January 31 – February 2, Dearborn Street Plaza, 348 W. Green Street, Englewood, Admission: Free. For updates and more information, visit Paragon Festivals.
The Perlman Music Program Suncoast (PMP Suncoast) presents the Abeo Quartet, Tuesday, February 11, 7:30 p.m., at First Presbyterian Church, 2050 Oak Street, Sarasota; and Thursday, February 13, 7 p.m., at Gold Coast Eagle, 7051 Wireless Ct, Lakewood Ranch. The program features a carefully curated selection of works by renowned composers, including W.A. Mozart, Reena Esmail, and Franz Schubert, with highlights such as Esmail's evocative quartet, “Ragamala,” a stunning fusion of Hindustani classical traditions and intricate ensemble interplay. Tickets for the February 11th performance at First Presbyterian are $25 (general admission) and $35 (VIP; front rows). Tickets for the February 13th concert at Gold Coast Eagle are $30 and include adult beverages and desserts. Tickets can be purchased at PMPSuncoast.org.
CreArte Latino Cultural Center announces the return of “Voices of Immigration,” a powerful dramatized reading performed in Spanish with English subtitles. The performance shares heartfelt testimonies of immigrants living in the region, offering an intimate glimpse into their experiences of leaving their homeland, navigating challenges, and building a new life. Premiered in November 2024, this deeply moving piece invites audiences to reflect on a poignant question: Does the American Dream truly exist, and is the sacrifice worth it? The event is Saturday, February 1, 8 p.m., at CreArte Latino Cultural Center’s new venue, 1913 Northgate Blvd., Sarasota. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased at CreArteLatino.org.
Join us in celebrating our members with the launch of our first Online Exhibition, showcasing an extra 100 incredible works of art. In addition, a special People’s Choice Award will be presented to one artist featured in the online gallery. Visit www.artsarasota.org starting January 30, 2025, to explore the exhibition and cast your vote!
Kick off your weekend with the perfect blend of fresh flavors, fantastic tunes, and family fun at the 6th Annual Englewood Seafood & Music Festival, happening January 31 – February 2, 2025, atDearborn Street Plaza (348 W. Green Street). Admission is FREE, so bring your appetite for fun!
January 31 – February 2, 2025, Dearborn Street Plaza, 348 W. Green Street, Englewood, Admission: Free. For updates and more information, visit Paragon Festivals.
Following the success of last year’s “Downtown Sarasota: Hindsight, Insight, and Foresight” series, Architecture Sarasota announces its 2025 program: “Downtown Sarasota: Beyond Our Borders.” Building on the momentum of last year’s discussions, which played a pivotal role in the City of Sarasota’s decision to move forward with a new downtown master plan, this year’s series will continue to explore fresh perspectives on Sarasota’s future. Shifting its focus internationally, the series features renowned urbanists from outside the United States, offering global insights into Sarasota’s prospects. The lineup includes Gil Penalosa (February 11), Brent Toderain (February 25), and Paul Kalbfleish (March 11).
The presentations are 6-7:30 p.m. at Church of the Redeemer, 222 S. Palm Ave., Sarasota. Tickets are $50 for the three-part series or $20 per lecture and can be purchased at ArchitectureSarasota.org. For more information, call 352-219-4122.
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.
Teachers + Tuesdays = 1⁄2 OFF Pie’s at Pie On Main! Every Tuesday Teachers with School ID enjoy 1/2 off Pizzas when you Dine-in with us! Convenient parking in our lot behind the restaurant. 1/2 off Pizzas with purchase of any beverage, excluding personal pizzas.
Pie on Main, 1507 Main St Sarasota, FL 34236
Longtime friends Chef Charles Amherst of Chaz 51 Steakhouse in Venice and Barbara Gerdeman, co-founder of Creative Liberties Artist Studios in Sarasota, have joined forces to create a series of interactive “live art dinner showcases.” Join us every Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday evenings from 5-8:30 pm.
Chaz 51 Steakhouse, 549 US-41 BYP, Venice, FL 34285
The Sarasota Farmers Market Vendors Incorporated (“SFMV”) has been established as a not for-profit organization under laws of the State of Florida, continuing the 40+ year tradition of enhancing and improving the quality of life in Sarasota. Our charitable mission is to create a social opportunity for residents and visitors to gather and interact, to bring foot traffic to downtown Sarasota sustaining the economic viability of the entire downtown area, and to provide a venue for other not-for-profit organizations benefiting Sarasota.
Sarasota Farmer's Market, N Lemon Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236
Welcome to the Bradenton Public Market, a place where the community meets each week to enjoy fresh produce, local art, music, and free family activities on Old Main Street.
Old Main Street Downtown Bradenton, Old Main ST. Bradenton, 34205
Think while you drink! Gather your friends, co-workers or family and join us for a fun-filled evening. Prizes, specials and FUN!
Gecko's Grill & Pub, Multiple Locations
Discover a vibrant community gathering at the Phillippi Farmhouse Market, nestled within the scenic Phillippi Estate Park. This seasonal market, open every Wednesday from October through April from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., invites you to experience the best of fresh produce, prepared foods, artisanal products and live music. Beyond shopping, visitors can explore the park’s beautiful grounds, including the historic Edson Keith Mansion, through a free, docent-led tour beginning promptly at 10 a.m. each Wednesday.
Phillippi Estate Park, 5500 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, FL 34231
Be the first to experience our elevated new menu offerings in our stunning, one-of-a-kind restaurant. The festivities will also include cocktails and live entertainment for an unforgettable evening in celebration of our new Sarasota UTC location. RSVP by Friday, January 20th.
Fleming's Sarasota UTC, 8306 Tourist Center Dr. Bradenton FL 34201
Join us on Main Street for the Best Seat outside of New Orleans at Pie On Main. We'll have food & bar specials, specialty shots & our hand-tossed Pie's, Calzones, Sub's and Salads. Every quarter we'll have some SUPER GIVEAWAYS! Reserve your seat today with any of our friendly tap masters or servers and bring your Big Game party here! We'll help you celebrate the last game of the season at your favorite game-watching spot on Main Street.
Pie on Main, 1507 Main St, Sarasota, FL 34236
Experience a bit of Indian culture right here in Sarasota. This intimate event will include a fashion show with lenghas, shalwars, saris, and Indian jewelry. Learn how to wrap a sari and enjoy culturally traditional finger foods, desserts, and music. Door prizes and changes to win special clothing items.
Private Home in Bent Tree , (34241)
Join us for an unforgettable evening with food served a La Parisienne family style by French Chef Arnaud Wallet who has 20 + years of cooking expereince and live music by Chuck. Our Valentine's Day Dinner is available at all of our locations: UTC & AMI & Main Street Sarasota
Various Locations, Various Location
The Southside School Foundation for the Arts (SSFA) is thrilled to announce its third annual Cooking for the Arts event, co-chaired by Molly and Ethan Biter and Sepi and Ryan Ackerman. This extraordinary evening will welcome nearly 250 guests for a one-of-a-kind, hands-on culinary experience. Under the expert guidance of renowned local celebrity chefs Phil Mancini and Jamil Pineda, attendees will collaborate to prepare a delectable four-course meal, making for an unforgettable night of camaraderie and creativity.
Michael's On East , 1212 S East Ave, Sarasota, FL 34239
Your evening begins by meeting your fellow South American oligarchs over a specialty cocktail (or beer or wine) at Rae's Cabaret in MPAC's grand lobby. Next, you will be conducted upstairs to the Ballroom, for a brief participatory tango demonstration, followed by a two-course dinner accompanied by Argentine wines. Finally, you will be given premium main stage seatin g for MPAC's production of the award-winning Broadway musical "Evita."
Manatee Performing Arts Center , 502 3rd Avenue West Bradenton FL 34205
Visit Fresh Harvest, the newly launched weekly farmers market in Downtown Wellen. Fresh Harvest offers a selection of local goods from nearly 40 local vendors. Fresh Harvest takes place every Sunday in Downtown Wellen from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Attendees can peruse different vendor booths and stock up on a variety of goods. Vendors will offer a wide variety of locally grown and produced food, including herbs, spices, cut flowers, teas, canned and preserved fruits and vegetables, syrups, baked goods, pickled foods, fresh seafood, meats, poultry, eggs, milk and prepared food and beverages. A limited selection of craft vendors also participate in the farmers market. For a listing of participating vendors and more information on Fresh Harvest Farmers Market, visit wellenpark.com/events/fresh-harvest-farmers-market. Downtown Wellen, 19745 Wellen Park Blvd., Venice.
Celebrate the Lunar New Year with KORÊ! Indulge in exquisite Japanese A5 Wagyu, challenge yourself with Korean games, be mesmerized by a spectacular Dragon Dance, and dance the night away with a live DJ! Don't miss out on this unforgettable experience!
Kore Steakhouse, 1561 Lakefront Drive, Sarasota, FL, 34240
Join us for Valentines Day! Explore what self care Sunday really means. Spread the love while treating yourself with special wellness activities and goodies from our local vendors.
The Meadows, 5041 Ringwood Meadow Sarasota, FL 34235
The 27th Annual Thunder By The Bay Music & Motorcycle Festival is a three-day event held Feb. 14-16, 2025 at the Sarasota Fairgrounds that benefits Suncoast Charities for Children. National Headline Acts include Blue Öyster Cult (Friday – Feb. 14), Grand Funk Railroad (Saturday – Feb. 15), and Creed Fisher (Sunday – Feb. 16). The Festival features continuous live music, vendors, daredevil acts, a charity motorcycle ride, bike show, a motorcycle “sound off” competition, biker games, and much more! On-site camping is also available. Admission is $15 in advance and $20 at the gate (12 and under free). Limited VIP tickets are also available. Over the past 26 years, the Festival has raised over $2.8 Million for charity.
Sarasota Fairgrounds
Tenor Hak Soo Kim is renowned for his performances at Sarasota Opera and other stages. In addition, he is certified sommelier and has worked at some of New York City's finest restaurants includin the last three years as head sommelier at James Beard Award winner Thomas Keller's restaurants Per Se. This extraordinary wine dinner feature wines selected by Mr. Kim paired with a sumptuous four-course dinner prepared by Michael's on East under the direction of Exective Chef Jamil Pineda.
Michael's Wine Cellar, 1283 S Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, Fl 34239
Come taste your way around our Kitchen (the Pineapple Kitchen) in Lakewood Ranch, Florida on Saturday, February 1, 2025. Our free annual Open House will be held 10:30AM to 2:30PM. Fun for the whole family. There will be raffles drawn hourly.
Pineapple Kitchen, 4914 Lena Road, Unit 104 Bradenton, Florida 34211
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