« Back To SRQ Daily Archive

SRQ DAILY May 6, 2025

Tuesday Dining and Food Edition

Tuesday Dining and Food Edition

"Our frites are cut in-house. They're cooked twice and then they're finished on the rooftop the third time in a mini fryer, then tossed with a little bit of white truffle and sea salt and sprinkled with parmesan."

- Chris Covelli, Executive Chef, Sage Restaurant.
 

[The Dish]  At Sage Restaurant, an Elevated New Rooftop Menu Awaits
Kate Wight, kate.wight@srqme.com

The rooftop at Sage Restaurant has long been a destination for people who like to enjoy creative craft cocktails, live music and a skyline view. Now, that experience is even more elevated as Sage debuts its new rooftop food menu.

While the dining room at Sage offers a full-service dining experience, the rooftop menu is focused more on small plates and shareable bites. But though the rooftop dining experience may be more playful and casual, the quality is what you would expect from Sage. Look at their frites, which are miles beyond what you would expect from a simple French fry.

“In France, frites are cooked three times in order to get the tenderness out of the potato and the crispiness on the edges in order to have that perfect treat,” says Executive Chef Chris Covelli. “Our frites are cut in-house. They’re cooked twice and then they’re finished on the rooftop the third time in a mini fryer, then tossed with a little bit of white truffle and sea salt and sprinkled with parmesan.”

That philosophy can be found throughout the menu. Everything is made in-house, from the buffalo and sweet Thai chili sauces on the wings to the salsa and guacamole that accompany the freshly-fried corn tortilla chips. The charcuterie board is a popular choice for diners who like to graze while they sip their cocktails. The classic hummus (also made in-house) is a tasty option for vegetarians, while carnivores will be delighted by the smash burger, which is made with a combination of ground chuck and short rib.

Sage is open Tuesday through Thursday from 5pm to 10pm and Friday through Saturday from 5pm to 11pm. The rooftop menu is available Thursday through Saturday evenings with open seating and no reservations required.

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

Pictured: Topped with lettuce, tomato and caramelized onions, the smashburger is one of the elevated options on Sage Restaurant's new rooftop menu. Provided photo.

[The Dish]  An Unforgettable Brunch for Mom at The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota

Celebrate Mother’s Day in The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota’s sparkling grand ballroom in honor of the just-as-bright mother figure in your life. Treat the family to a luxurious meal for all ages, including breakfast classics, an unforgettable charcuterie display and raw bar, multiple chef-attended action stations, a dessert display that will leave you speechless, and much more. Let our Ladies and Gentlemen treat your entire family - especially mom. 10:30am – 2:30pm. $170++ per Adult, $60++ per Child (12 & Under). 

For reservations click here.

[The Dish]  Mother's Day Events at The Westin and Embassy Suites Sarasota

On May 11th, EVOQ Sarasota will host a Mother's Day Brunch, offering elevated take on classic homecooked dishes from 11:30 AM - 3 PM. The brunch will also include omelet and waffle stations, evoking memories of Sunday breakfasts filled with love and laughter. Tickets are priced at $75 per adult and $37 per child. Reservations can be made here: https://evoqsarasota.com/mothers-day-brunch-2025/ To give mothers the gift of an unforgettable weekend with the family, The Embassy Suites will be offering a special Mother's Day weekend beginning with a Paint & Sip With Mom on Saturday, May 10th from 4:30 - 7:30 PM. Priced at $55 per ticket, guests will able to enjoy wine as they create their own masterpiece with their mothers. The VIP experience, priced at $125 per ticket, will allow two guests will be able access our mimosa bar and enjoy a complimentary charcuterie board while they paint. The fun will continue on Sunday, May 11th with an all-day brunch at Bridges, The Embassy Suites' on-site restaurant. Any guest partaking in Paint & Sip will be offered a reservation and a 15% discount off their total bill for the brunch. Sign up for Paint & Sip can be found here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/paint-sip-with-mom-tickets-1338751354339?aff=ebdssbdestsearch 

[The Dish]  Ocean Prime Sarasota Launches Elevated Happy Hour

Ocean Prime Sarasota invites guests to indulge in a new Happy Hour experience, available Monday through Friday from 4–6PM in our bar & lounge. Enjoy $5 off: our lounge menu, signature cocktails, select wines. Whether you’re winding down after work or meeting friends for an early evening out, Ocean Prime Sarasota offers the perfect blend of sophistication and comfort right on the water. Come sip, savor, and elevate your happy hour. 

[Summer Activities]  Youth Summer Camp Aims to Boost Nature Connections, Knowledge

Limited spots remain open for a unique summer day camp that offers children and young teens a chance to learn more about nature and science while taking field trips to Sarasota County parks, preserves, beaches and more. Combining hiking, fishing, wildlife watching, exploration and other outdoor adventures with an array of indoor, hands-on, science-themed activities, the “4-H Exploring Your Environment” camp from UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County aims to help youth connect with and better understand the outdoor world. Camp spots are limited, and advance registration is required. The five-day camp costs $200 per participant (limited scholarships available), and includes activities, travel to and from field locations, and snacks during camp hours. For an additional fee, after- and/or before-camp care also is available. Learn more and register no later than May 15 via tiny.cc/ufsaraext_4hexplorecamp, or get more information by emailing 4h@scgov.net. 

[Parenting]  Parent University: Digital Parenting–May 22

Parent University: Digital Parenting – May 22 (Two Sessions) This spring, the SCS Department of Strategic Engagement is excited to host Ms. Katie Greer — a national expert on internet and technology safety — at our district-wide Parent University covering digital parenting. North County: Thursday, May 22, 11:30am — 12:30pm, Booker High School (3201 N. Orange Ave., Sarasota), South County: Thursday, May 22, 6:00pm — 7:00pm, Venice High School (1 Indian Ave., Venice). Parents Will Learn How To: Stay informed about the latest technology trends and apps popular among children: Engage in meaningful conversations with their children about online safety and responsible digital behavior: Conduct digital health checks to help children maintain a safe and balanced online presence. *In-person and virtual options are available! 

To learn more, visit.

[Recognition ]  Stolen Spring Artist from Ukraine Wins People's Choice Award at 2025 Embracing Our Differences Exhibitions

“This is my reality now,” says Alena Grom of Bucha, Ukraine, whose work “Stolen Spring” won the People’s Choice award at Embracing Our Differences’ 2025 outdoor exhibitions, which celebrate kindness, respect, and inclusion at Sarasota’s Bayfront Park and St. Petersburg’s Poynter Park. “I live in Bucha and work in Irpin. After the Russian occupation, these cities were destroyed. The military landscape has become my reality and routine. Every day I see people who are restoring their cities, their personal lives from the ruins and looking into the future. This photograph is about that survival.” Grom received a $2,000 cash award for her work. 

Photo courtesy of Embracing Our Differences.

[Arts & Entertainment]  Wheel of Fortune Live! Returns to Van Wezel

Sony Pictures Television and Right Angle Entertainment have announced that Wheel of Fortune LIVE!® will be stopping at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall on December 17 as part of its 60-city national tour. At Wheel of Fortune LIVE!, audience members will be randomly selected to come up on stage to spin the famous Wheel and show their skill by calling consonants, buying vowels and solving puzzles for an opportunity to win fantastic prizes, including vacations to destinations like Paris and Hawaii, or cash prizes up to $10,000. New this year, fans of Wheel of Fortune® will also be able to audition on-site for the chance to appear as a contestant on a future episode of the TV show alongside hosts Ryan Seacrest and Vanna White! For more information, please visit www.wheeloffortunelive.com/. 

[Economic Development Corporation]  Economic Outlook: Last Week to Get Your Ticket

Time is running out—ticket sales for the 22nd Annual Economic Outlook close this Friday, May 9. Don’t miss this premier regional event on May 15 at the Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota, where business and community leaders come together to explore what’s next for our economy. Hear expert insights from: Michelle Dennard, Vice President & Regional Executive of the Jacksonville Branch, Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta; Bemetra Simmons, President & CEO, Tampa Bay Partnership. They’ll share expert analysis on key economic trends and community indicators—and what they mean for Sarasota County and your business. Secure your ticket today—before it’s too late! We look forward to seeing you there. 

For ticket information click here.



[SOON]  FOOD: Mothers Day Brunch , May 11, Various Times

Enjoy Mother’s Day Brunch at Selby Gardens! Ticket price includes a hot and cold brunch buffet catered by Michael’s on East featuring an omelet and pancake station, carvings station, dessert bar, plus coffee, tea, and water. All other beverages will be available for purchase. Your brunch ticket also grants you full access to our Downtown Sarasota Campus to view the gardens and Spring Exhibition, George Harrison: A Gardener’s Life, before or after your seating time. 

Downtown Sarasota Campus, 1534 Mound Street, Sarasota, FL 34236

[SOON]  GRAB BAG: Bourbons & Barks , May 8, 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm

This year, we’re turning up the fun with Bourbons & Barks - Raising Spirits for Rescues! Join us on May 8th for a fantastic evening dedicated to supporting our furry friends in need. The event will include spirit tastings and raffles on the patio and a VIP dinner in the M&M lounge (limited availability). Join us for a night of tastings and cuddling with rescue pups, all for a good cause!

Gecko's Grill & Pub, 351 North Cattlemen Road Sarasota, FL 34232

[SOON]  FOOD: Bistro Pop-Up Night , May 7, 6:30 pm

Join us for a Bistro Pop-Up Night! Enjoy an after-hours gallery tour and a 4-course dinner curated by Executive Chef Peyton Leffingwell. The Bistro fare is inspired by Florida’s regional fruit stands and farmer’s markets, and emphasizes local produce, healthy proteins and artisanal specialty items.

Sarasota Art Museum, 1001 South Tamiami Trail Sarasota, FL 34236

[SOON]  FOOD: Lefty's Oyster & Seafood Bar Launches Daily & Late Night Happy Hours , April 23 – April 22

If you are oyster curious or just craving the fresh coastal seafood & hand-crafted cocktails from your new Rosemary District favorite, join us at Lefty's for our daily Happy Hours Monday - Friday from 4 pm - 6 pm and our Late Night Happy Hours on Friday and Saturday from 10 pm - Midnight. With seafood offerings from the Steamer and Buck-A-Shucks on oysters plus our extensive wine, specialty and seasonal cocktails and draft beers, Lefty's has your recipe to get happier and explore our menus.  Join us every day for Lunch, Happy Hours or Dinner and for our downtown neighbors and Hospitality industry colleagues, we'll have live music and keep the light on for you on the weekends!

Lefty's Oyster and Seafood Bar

[SOON]  FOOD: Cask & Ale's Sunday Brunch , April 13 – December 28, 11:00 pm - 3:00 pm

Cask & Ale on Main Street lifts a toast & taps a toe to our fabulous Brunch every Saturday & Sunday from 11:00 - 3:00 with live Jazz for Sunday Brunch from Noon - 4:00. 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. Liquor Locker owners can make your reservations for Mother's Day Jazz Brunch. Continue the good vibes to make the most of your weekend!  Voted Best Cocktails by SRQ Magazine!

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

[SOON]  FOOD: Tripletail Seafood & Spirits Sunday Brunch , February 9 – May 25, 10:00 am - 3:00 pm

Tripletail Seafood & Spirits is thrilled to announce the launch of its much-anticipated Sunday Brunch. Guests are invited to indulge in a delightful brunch experience on our beautiful covered patio or casual dining room with nautical touches. Our new brunch menu features a variety of mouth-watering dishes created by Chef Cesareo Cardenas, including his decadent Crème Brûlée French Toast, savory Steak & Eggs, succulent Lobster Benedict, the flavorful Tripletail Brunch Burger, and Crab & Shrimp Omelet. To complement your meal, guests will receive a complimentary Bloody Mary or Mimosa with the purchase of any entrée.

Tripletail Seafood & Spirits , 4870 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, FL 34231

[SOON]  GRAB BAG: Night Market at TMOD , January 31 – May 30, 3:00pm - 7:00 pm

Join The Market on Dearborn every Friday evening from October 2024 - May 2025 from 3pm-7pm on Historic Dearborn Street in Englewood, Florida as we launch an evening market to expand opportunities for local entrepreneurs and provide an additional family-friendly event for local residents and guests of Englewood

The Market on Dearborn, 232 W Dearborn St., Englewood, FL, United States, Florida 34223

[SOON]  GRAB BAG: Gecko's Trivia Nights , January 20 – September 27, Various Times

Think while you drinks! Gather your friends, co-workers or family and join us for a fun-filled evening. Prizes and specials each night. Monday – Wednesday at 7:30pm. Gecko’s on Clark – Monday ; Gecko’s on SR64 & Stickney Point – Tuesday ; Gecko’s on Hillview – Wednesday.

 

Gecko's Grill & Pub, Multiple Locations

[SOON]  FESTIVAL: Bradenton Public Market , January 18 – May 31, 9:00 am - 2:00 pm

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

[SOON]  GRAB BAG: Sarasota County Fire Department Fire Station Open Houses , January 18 – December 13, Various Times

SCFD is proud to welcome the community into the fire stations, continuing the tradition of open houses. These open houses are a wonderful opportunity for residents to engage directly with neighborhood firefighters. Visit our website to view the open house schedule. 

Multiple Location, Multiple Locations

[SOON]  SPORTS: Casual Cornhole , January 16 – December 25, 10:00 am - 11:00 am

Toss some fun into your Thursday! Join us at Waterside Place for a fun morning of Casual Cornhole! Whether you’re a cornhole pro or a newbie, don’t miss this chance to show off your tossing skills and have a blast with friends! Grab a partner or go solo, we’ve got enough beanbags and boards to keep everyone entertained!

Waterside Place at Lakewood Ranch, 7500 Island Cove Terrace Lakewood Ranch , FL 34240

[SOON]  MUSEUM: Ringling by the Bay , December 9 – May 25, Various Times

Join us on the Bolger Campiello for live music and dancing. Food and beverage will be available for purchase on the bayfront. One chair per person will be available. No outside food, drink, coolers, chairs or pets are permitted. Members please note: $20 tickets are limited to one for Individual Memberships and two for all other Membership levels.

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

[SOON]  GRAB BAG: Downtown Wellen Park Night Market , August 8 – May 8, 6-9pm

The Wellen Park Night Market returns the second Thursday of each month from 6-9pm offering an evening of shopping, live music and dining under the twinkling lights of Downtown Wellen. The Night Market features independent artists and makers specializing in art, jewelry, boutique fashion, home decor, bottle art, wood designs and specialty food items set up along Wellen Park Boulevard with 50 rotating vendors. Food items included rum cakes, desserts, lemonade, barbecue and vegan fare.

Wellen Park, 19745 Wellen Pk Blvd

[SOON]  PERFORMANCE: Divas Time After Time , February 12 – June 22, Various Times

Celebrate the women who have captivated the world with their dynamic personalities and fierce vocals. Starting in the 1960’s, female artists such as Cher, Barbra Streisand, Whitney Houston, and Celine Dion have been pushing boundaries and shattering records with hits such as, “Turn Back Time,” “I Wanna Dance with Somebody” and “My Heart Will Go On.”

John C. Court Cabaret, 1265 1st St, Sarasota, FL 34236

[SOON]  SPORTS: Downtown SRQ Sunday Morning Walk , March 16 – December 28, 9:00 am - 10:00 a,

Join us every Sunday morning at 9am for a walk to the Bayfront and back on a route that is just under 2 miles. Meet at 99 Bottles Downtown Sarasota and end at the same location in approximately 30-40 minutes, depending on pace. This weekly walking social club is an opportunity to connect with other locals. 

99 Bottles, 1445 2nd St Sarasota, FL 34236

[SOON]  SPORTS: 99 Bottles Run Club , March 19 – December 31, 6:00pm - 8:00pm

Every Wednesdat at 6 pm a 5k Fun Run starts and ends at 99 Bottles. Course runs through Downtown Sarasota and along the Bayfront, all skill levels, all fun. Each time you finish a run, you must get yout card punched to get an attendance credit and receive 99 bottles prizes. All runners are expected to obey all traffic laws, be courteous to other runners, pedestrians, cyclists, animals, etc.on the route and to know your limits - running and/or drinking!

99 Bottles, 1445 2nd St Sarasota, FL 34236

SRQ Media Group

SRQ DAILY is a daily e-newsletter produced by SRQ MEDIA. Note: The views and opinions expressed in the Saturday Perspectives Edition and the Letters department of SRQ DAILY are those of the author(s) and do not imply endorsement by SRQ Media. 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. SRQ DAILY includes content excerpted from news releases as a public service. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by SRQ DAILY.  For rates on SRQ DAILY banner advertising and sponsored content opportunities, please contact Robinson Valverde at 941-365-7702 x703 or via email

Copyright © 2025 by SRQ MEDIA, 331 South Pineapple Avenue, Sarasota, FL 34236.
Powered by Sarasota Web Design | Unsubscribe

Read More

The Catch of the Day

Lefty’s Oyster and Seafood Bar is the Rosemary District’s newest seafood destination

Dylan Campbell | May 1, 2025

Forged in Fire

Radical Clay: a history of Japanese contemporary ceramists is on full view

Dylan Campbell | May 1, 2025

Currents of Resistance

Exploring the intersection of culture and nature with Sandy Rodriguez’s exhibition at The Ringling

Barbie Heit | May 1, 2025

Endedans’ Encore

Tania Vergara Perez revives a dream with Endedans' Contemporary Ballet

Phil Lederer | May 1, 2025