Pictured: The signature smoking shellfish tower at Ocean Prime is as spectacular to look at as it is to eat. Photo courtesy of Ocean Prime.

“Our team is dedicated to ensuring every bite tells a story,” says Ethen Delk.

Delk is the general manager of Ocean Prime Sarasota, an upscale seafood restaurant and steakhouse that opened in The Quay Sarasota earlier this month. The highly-acclaimed eatery from chef Cameron Mitchell has locations all over the country, but the sophisticated seafood-forward menu is particularly well-suited for Sarasota.

There is an old saying that goes, ‘We eat first with our eyes.’ At Ocean Prime, the food is fresh and flavorful but it's the presentation that takes it to the next level. Everything is plated beautifully, from the delicate hamachi crudo to the juicy pan-seared scallops to the luscious lobster tail to the perfectly-grilled New York strip steak. The restaurant’s signature smoking shellfish tower is a visual feast all on its own. This customizable seafood tower features a selection of fresh shellfish including oysters, shrimp and whole Maine lobster arranged over cascading dry ice. Not only does this create a captivating spectacle, it also keeps the seafood chilled throughout the meal. The dramatic dry ice effect dazzles diners and is the perfect plate to celebrate a special occasion.

That presentational flair isn’t limited to the entrees. Ocean Prime has an impressive craft cocktail program featuring drinks like the Berries & Bubbles, which pairs marinated blackberries, sparkling wine and organic vodka infused with lemon and basil which is also presented with a dry ice component. Even the desserts have some drama. The towering ten-layer carrot cake with cream cheese icing and pineapple syrup is tall, yet still delicate.

Ocean Prime Sarasota is open Sunday through Thursday from 4pm to 9pm and Friday and Saturday from 4pm to 10pm.

Ocean Prime Sarasota, 501 Quay Commons, Sarasota, 941-404-1024, www.ocean-prime.com.

Pictured: The signature smoking shellfish tower at Ocean Prime is as spectacular to look at as it is to eat. Photo courtesy of Ocean Prime.