While the cuisine in Sarasota is enjoyable, there are other things that usually bring in visitors. Still, you can discover some wonderful spots around the city. You'll find plenty of seafood around town, but there are also international restaurants and quirky local joints.
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Sarasota is around $238 ($238) per person, with previous travelers spending from $238 to $238. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Sarasota are as follows:
- Breakfast: $24 to $71
- Lunch: $36 to $95
- Dinner: $71 to $166
- Coffee: $19
- Fast Food or Street Food: $36
Like any popular vacation destination, Sarasota has plenty of dining options to satisfy all tastes and budgets. There are a number of places serving anything from small bites to indulgent meals, especially in the downtown area. With its location along the gulf coast, Sarasota also has a number of great seafood restaurants to match. From rustic oyster bars and open-air cafes to candlelit restaurants, any eatery in in the city will offer a wide variety of fresh fish and seafood. Though the seafood is sure to please, you can also find familiar chain restaurants and other eateries serving just about anything you could crave - steak, sushi, wood-oven-fired pizzas, authentic Asian cuisine, or a hearty hamburger. Some of the top restaurants as rated on TripAdvisor include Antoine's Restaurant, Sofrito Mama's, Solorzanos Late Night Pizzeria, Dolce Italia, Mozzarella Fella, Duval's, KaCey's Seafood and More, Selva Grill, Clayton's Siesta Grille, Michael's On East, Shore Diner, and Toasted Mango, amongst others. Most dining options can be found in the downtown area or in the vicinity of St. Armand's Circle.
When you're out with kids, seek restaurants that provide a kids' menu. This can help you save a good chunk of change, as these meals are usually priced lower. Remember, some places may not display their kids' options, so be sure to ask the server before ordering.
Many accommodations throw in breakfast at no extra cost, though others might charge you for it. The price and quality can greatly vary by hotel. Knowing this in advance can help you figure out if you need to spend more money. You might find the hotel's buffet is worth it, or you may prefer to grab a cheaper bite at a local bakery or cafe.
Instead of constantly buying drinks, bring along a water bottle. It's also great for the planet.
Before you head out on a tour, be sure to find out which meals are included. You could end up paying for some meals out of pocket, which can impact your budget.
If you're looking to experience the culinary culture in Sarasota, taking a food tour or cooking class is a terrific way to do it. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. Some of the best food-related activities here include:
- Sip & Dine Sarasota- A Walking/Food Tour (adults 21+) for $130 details
- Downtown Sarasota Street Food -Casual Lunchtime Walking/Food Tour for $77 details