13 Must-Try Outdoor Restaurants In Sarasota, Florida
Sarasota’s sunshine and gentle Gulf breezes create the perfect recipe for outdoor dining adventures that’ll make your taste buds dance with joy.
Picture yourself savoring fresh seafood while palm trees sway overhead and the warm Florida air wraps around you like a cozy blanket.
Whether you’re craving waterfront views, garden settings, or lively patio scenes, this coastal gem serves up unforgettable alfresco experiences at every turn.
Get ready to explore the most amazing spots where delicious food meets gorgeous weather in one of America’s happiest seaside towns!
1. Mattison’s City Grille – Sarasota
Right in the heart of downtown Sarasota beats the culinary soul of Mattison’s City Grille, where outdoor dining reaches new heights of sophistication and fun.
The spacious patio welcomes guests with comfortable seating arrangements that make you feel like royalty without the stuffy atmosphere.
String lights twinkle overhead as evening approaches, transforming the space into a magical dining wonderland that’ll have you snapping photos faster than you can say “cheese!”
Fresh ingredients dance together in every dish, creating flavor combinations that’ll make your mouth water just thinking about them later.
The menu celebrates both land and sea with creative twists on classic favorites that never disappoint.
Families love the welcoming vibe, while friends gather for celebrations that turn ordinary evenings into extraordinary memories.
Located at 1 N Lemon Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236, this downtown treasure proves that great food tastes even better under Florida’s endless blue skies.
2. Owen’s Fish Camp – Sarasota
Step back in time to Old Florida’s glory days when you settle into Owen’s Fish Camp, where rustic charm meets seriously scrumptious seafood sensations.
Weathered wood and vintage fishing gear create an atmosphere so authentic you’ll swear you’ve traveled through a time machine to simpler, slower days.
The outdoor seating area captures that laid-back fishing village vibe perfectly, making every meal feel like a mini-vacation from reality.
Southern hospitality shines bright here, with servers who treat guests like long-lost friends returning home after years away.
Comfort food gets a coastal makeover with dishes that honor tradition while adding creative flair that keeps taste buds guessing.
Kids go crazy for the relaxed atmosphere where they can be themselves without worrying about fancy manners or hushed voices.
Find this hidden gem at 516 Burns Ct, Sarasota, FL 34236, tucked away like a secret treasure waiting to be discovered by hungry adventurers.
3. O’Leary’s Tiki Bar & Grill – Sarasota
Paradise found its address at 5 Bayfront Dr, Sarasota, FL 34236, where O’Leary’s Tiki Bar & Grill serves up island vibes with every single bite and sip.
Thatched roofs and tropical decorations transport diners straight to a Caribbean vacation without the expensive plane ticket or passport hassles.
The waterfront location offers stunning bay views that make sunset dining feel like winning the lottery of life experiences.
Casual doesn’t mean boring here, the menu bursts with flavors that’ll make your tongue do a happy dance while your eyes feast on boats bobbing gently in the marina.
Live entertainment often fills the air with music that gets toes tapping and spirits soaring higher than the seagulls overhead.
Flip-flops and shorts are perfectly acceptable attire, making this the ultimate spot for keeping things breezy and comfortable.
Families flock here for the laid-back atmosphere where everyone can relax and enjoy quality time together without any pretense or pressure.
4. Marina Jack Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill – Sarasota
Sunshine literally lives in the name of this spectacular waterfront wonder located at 2 Marina Plaza, Sarasota, FL 34236, where every meal comes with a side of stunning scenery.
Yachts and sailboats glide past your table like a constantly changing art gallery that never charges admission fees.
The spacious patio provides plenty of room for groups to spread out and enjoy conversations without shouting over neighbors or competing for elbow space.
Fresh catches arrive daily, transforming from ocean to plate faster than you can finish saying “deliciously prepared seafood spectacular.”
Blue umbrellas provide shade when the sun gets too enthusiastic, while cool breezes off the water keep temperatures comfortable throughout your dining experience.
Sunset views here are the stuff of legends, painting the sky in colors that no artist could ever truly capture on canvas.
Whether celebrating special occasions or just treating yourself to Tuesday, Marina Jack delivers experiences that stick in your memory long after the plates are cleared.
5. Duval’s Fresh. Local. Seafood. – Sarasota
Honesty in advertising reaches new levels at Duval’s, where the name tells you exactly what you’re getting: fresh, local, and absolutely fantastic seafood creations.
Located at 1435 Main St, Sarasota, FL 34236, this Main Street marvel champions local fishermen and farmers with every dish that leaves the kitchen.
The outdoor seating area blends seamlessly with the downtown streetscape, creating a people-watching paradise for curious diners who love observing city life.
Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword here—it’s a way of life that ensures future generations can enjoy Florida’s incredible ocean bounty too.
Menu items change with the seasons and daily catches, meaning repeat visits always bring new surprises and flavor adventures.
Contemporary design meets coastal comfort in a space that feels both sophisticated and approachable at the same time.
Servers know their stuff, happily explaining where ingredients come from and how dishes are prepared with genuine enthusiasm that’s absolutely contagious.
6. Tzeva – Sarasota
Mediterranean magic happens nightly at Tzeva, where international flavors meet Florida sunshine in the most delightful culinary marriage imaginable.
Sophistication whispers rather than shouts at this elegant establishment located at 1255 N Palm Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236, where every detail receives careful attention.
The outdoor patio feels like a secret European garden transported across the Atlantic Ocean and planted firmly in Sarasota soil.
Bold spices and fresh herbs create flavor profiles that’ll make your taste buds feel like they’ve boarded a plane to distant lands.
Small plates encourage sharing and exploring, turning dinner into an interactive adventure rather than a solitary eating experience.
Lush greenery surrounds diners, providing natural privacy screens that make intimate conversations feel even more special and memorable.
Romantic dates flourish here, though groups of friends also appreciate the refined atmosphere that elevates any gathering into something extraordinary and Instagram-worthy.
7. Sage SRQ – Sarasota
Farm-to-table philosophy blooms beautifully at Sage SRQ, where locally sourced ingredients star in dishes that celebrate Florida’s incredible agricultural abundance.
Nestled at 1216 1st St, Sarasota, FL 34236, this downtown darling transforms simple ingredients into extraordinary culinary experiences that’ll spoil you for chain restaurants forever.
Sage’s standout outdoor experience comes from its stylish rooftop space, offering elevated open-air dining that feels worlds away from the streets below.
Creative presentations turn every plate into edible artwork that almost seems too beautiful to eat—but trust us, you’ll want to devour every single bite.
Seasonal menus keep things fresh and exciting, giving regulars good reasons to return again and again throughout the year.
String lights add enchantment as daylight fades, casting a warm glow that makes everyone look like they’re starring in their own romantic movie.
Health-conscious diners appreciate the thoughtful approach to ingredients without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction in any way whatsoever.
8. The Roof Bar & Eats (The Westin Sarasota) – Sarasota
Sky-high dining reaches literal new heights at The Roof Bar & Eats, where panoramic views stretch as far as your eyes can see across beautiful Sarasota.
Perched atop The Westin at 100 Marina View Dr, Sarasota, FL 34236, this rooftop retreat offers perspectives that ground-level restaurants simply cannot compete with.
Sunset chasers consider this prime real estate for capturing those perfect golden-hour moments when the sky explodes in brilliant colors.
Contemporary comfort meets upscale casual in a space designed for lingering long after your plates are empty and cleared away.
The menu features shareable bites and satisfying entrees that fuel conversations and celebrations without weighing you down with heavy, overstuffed feelings.
Cool breezes at this elevation provide natural air conditioning even on warmer days, making outdoor dining comfortable year-round in paradise.
Whether impressing out-of-town visitors or treating yourself to something special, The Roof delivers experiences that soar above ordinary expectations every single time.
9. The Green Orchid by Michael’s On East (Selby Gardens) – Sarasota
Nature and fine dining join forces at The Green Orchid, where botanical beauty surrounds every table in a setting that feels almost too gorgeous to be real.
Located within the stunning Selby Gardens at 1534 Mound St, Sarasota, FL 34236, this restaurant transforms lunch or brunch into a garden party extraordinaire.
Tropical plants and exotic flowers create a living backdrop that changes with the seasons, ensuring no two visits look exactly alike.
Culinary excellence meets environmental consciousness in dishes that honor both flavor and the natural world surrounding the dining space.
Butterflies and hummingbirds often make guest appearances, adding unexpected entertainment that delights diners of all ages without charging extra admission.
Garden tours before or after meals make the experience even more special, turning simple dining outings into full afternoon adventures.
Bridal showers and special celebrations feel extra magical here, where Mother Nature provides decorations that no party planner could ever hope to replicate or improve upon.
10. Boca Sarasota – Sarasota
Urban energy pulses through Boca Sarasota, where downtown dining gets a stylish upgrade that appeals to trendsetters and food enthusiasts alike.
Situated at 19 S Lemon Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236, this hot spot serves up globally inspired cuisine that takes your taste buds on worldwide adventures without requiring passports.
The outdoor patio buzzes with conversation and laughter, creating an energetic atmosphere that makes solo diners feel welcome and groups feel celebrated.
Modern design elements blend seamlessly with comfortable seating that encourages guests to settle in and stay awhile longer than originally planned.
Innovative flavor combinations surprise and delight, proving that familiar ingredients can taste completely new when prepared with creativity and skill.
Edison bulbs and contemporary decor create an Instagram-worthy backdrop that’ll make your foodie friends seriously jealous of your dining choices.
Date nights gain extra spark here, where the vibrant scene adds excitement to romantic evenings without overwhelming intimate conversations or special moments together.
11. Indigenous – Sarasota
Culinary artistry reaches impressive peaks at Indigenous, where local ingredients transform into sophisticated dishes that honor Florida’s natural bounty and heritage.
Found at 239 S Links Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236, this refined establishment celebrates regional flavors with techniques that elevate simple ingredients into extraordinary experiences.
The outdoor seating area incorporates native plants and natural landscaping that creates harmony between the restaurant and its surrounding environment.
Award-winning chefs work their magic in the kitchen, crafting plates that look like edible paintings while tasting even better than they appear.
Attention to detail shows in every aspect, from perfectly folded napkins to precisely timed courses that flow seamlessly throughout your meal.
Diners enjoy a peaceful courtyard-style atmosphere within the historic Towles Court district, surrounded by charming architecture and lush greenery.
Special occasion celebrations deserve venues this special, where memories are made alongside meals that’ll be remembered and discussed for years to come afterward.
12. The Old Salty Dog – Sarasota
Legendary status belongs to The Old Salty Dog, where generations of families have gathered for waterfront meals that never go out of style or lose their appeal.
Planted at 1601B Ken Thompson Pkwy, Sarasota, FL 34236, this beloved institution serves up no-frills seafood with views that make fancy restaurants jealous.
The covered outdoor deck protects diners from sudden rain showers while still providing fresh air and water views that make every meal feel special.
Simplicity reigns supreme here, proving that you don’t need complicated preparations when ingredients are this fresh and flavors are this authentic.
Pelicans and dolphins often provide free entertainment, performing better than any hired act could ever hope to match or imitate.
Local knowledge runs deep in this establishment, where staff can recommend hidden beaches and secret spots that tourist guidebooks never mention.
Affordable prices mean families can dine out without breaking the bank, making quality waterfront experiences accessible to everyone regardless of budget constraints.
13. Spearfish Grille – Sarasota / Siesta Key
Siesta Key vibes extend inland to Spearfish Grille, where beach-inspired dining meets neighborhood charm in the most delightful combination imaginable.
Located at 1265 Old Stickney Point Rd, Sarasota, FL 34242, this local favorite draws crowds who appreciate quality food without tourist-trap prices or attitudes.
The outdoor patio captures that easy-breezy coastal lifestyle perfectly, making guests feel like they’re dining at a friend’s backyard barbecue rather than a restaurant.
Fresh seafood stars on the menu alongside land-based options that ensure everyone finds something to love and devour with enthusiasm.
Generous portions mean nobody leaves hungry, and leftover containers often make appearances for those who can’t quite finish their delicious meals.
Friendly service makes newcomers feel like regulars from the moment they sit down and open their menus for the first time.
Perfect for post-beach dinners when you’re sandy, salty, and starving after a long day of playing in the Gulf’s warm waters and white sand beaches nearby.