SRQ DAILY Jun 23, 2026
Tuesday Dining and Food Edition
"It makes it fun, and gives people some flavors they wouldn't expect."
On June 26, GROVE brings the Malbec of Mendoza's snow-capped mountains to Lakewood Ranch. A Taste of Mendoza: Catena Zapata Wine Dinner pairs five courses with the wines of Argentina's most defining producer.
Founded in 1902 and now led by fourth-generation Laura Catena, Catena Zapata exported the country's first Malbec to the United States. The family "got Malbec on the map," says Courtney Cooper of Winebow, the evening’s guest speaker. Without them, she adds, we wouldn’t be drinking it at all.
Cooper describes Catena’s vineyards as “this perfect little place for growing grapes,” crediting the sun, soil and altitude for its distinct flavor. That character inspired Executive Chef Greg Campbell’s special menu. His cooking finds its own coordinates: southern France, northern Spain and the southern U.S. for “a little touch of my real roots."
The tasting opens with a Patagonian shrimp crudo of compressed melon, avocado, citrus, espelette and mint, designed to complement the floral notes and bright acidity of the Catena Rosé. For the third course, he reworks the empanada, plated with a blackberry-Malbec gastrique and smoked onion crema. ”I took an empanada, which is Argentine, then I threw in a duck confit, which is incredibly French," he says. “It makes it fun, and gives people some flavors they wouldn't expect.”
The centerpiece leans southern French, which Campbell calls “more hearty and intense”: bison short rib, Malbec demi-glace, pomme purée and charred broccolini. The braise stands up to its pairing. Catena Zapata Malbec Argentino 2022, estate-grown fruit from two single vineyards, is 100 percent Malbec, says Cooper, “showing exactly what Malbec is, how powerful she is in all of her glory.”
A Taste of Mendoza: Catena Zapata Wine Dinner, Friday, June 26, 2026, at 7:00 pm, Ballroom, GROVE Restaurant, 10670 Boardwalk Loop, Lakewood Ranch, 941-893-4321, grovelwr.com 
Pictured: Succulent short rib at GROVE. Photo courtesy of GROVE Restaurant.
Supervisor of Elections Ron Turner announced that approximately 48,000 Sarasota County voters will begin receiving new voter information cards in the mail this week. The mailing of the voter information cards follows recent congressional redistricting by the Florida Legislature. In Sarasota County, the redistricting split the county between congressional districts 16 and 17, where previously the county was entirely in district 17. The cards are official notification to affected voters that they will be voting in congressional district 16 going forward.
Saturday, June 27 is a sizzling day at The Bazaar on Apricot & Lime and Hamlet’s Eatery as they throw the ultimate National Hot Dog Day bash! From 11 AM to 3 PM, they are turning up the heat with all-beef and vegan hot dogs, where YOU get to customize your creation with an incredible array of toppings. Whether you’re a fan of zesty sport pickles, savory chili, or anything in between, your hot dog dreams are about to come true! The talented George Parmalee playing live music ensures the atmosphere is as lively as the flavors! Quench your thirst with $4 beer specials, and don’t miss out on free samples of Surfside Vodka to keep you refreshed throughout the day.
The Bazaar on Apricot and Lime and Hamlet's Eatery, 821 Apricot Ave, Sarasota. Saturday, June 27, 11am-3pm.
Ocean Prime Sarasota is enhancing its popular Happy Hour offering, with guests now able to enjoy half off all lounge menu items, along with signature cocktails and select wines by the glass. Happy Hour is available Monday through Friday from 4 to 6 p.m. in the bar and lounge. With beautiful bayfront views, handcrafted cocktails, and now even greater savings, it's a great opportunity for locals and visitors alike to experience Ocean Prime during the summer season.
Pictured: Sonoma Goat Cheese Ravioli. Provided photo.
Join us for our July 2 Originals Culinary Tour and kick off the holiday weekend early with an evening of local restaurants, delicious bites, wine pairings, and trolley fun. It’s the perfect way to gather your people, skip the dinner planning, and toast to a long weekend before it officially begins. Spots are limited, so grab your seat before we roll. Seats are extremely limited, and this tour is expected to sell out. Can't make it the 2nd? Tickets for our August & September trolley tours are on sale now as well.
Think you’ve got a cocktail worthy of the spotlight? Or, do you enjoy spectating the competitive alchemy of a true Mixologist? Join us for our Penelope Pour Off competition on Wednesday, July 1 from 6–9 pm, where local bartenders will go head-to-head in a multi-round cocktail competition. Alexis & Ryan from Penelope, and Bryan from Luxco will be our guest judges. All competitors arrive at 5:00 pm. Penelope Bourbon training starts at 5:30, and competition starts at 6:0 pm. Competitors will receive mystery ingredients and create original cocktails to advance through rounds until a Champ is crowned! Competitors may bring one homemade simple syrup, one Bitters, and any unique garnishes. Penelope will provide prize baskets for 1st 2nd and 3rd place. The Field is limited to 12 so if you’d like to compete, give us a call or stop by to add your name to the bartender sign-up sheet.
This summer, Selby Gardens is excited to present an indoor and outdoor exhibition featuring the work of legendary American photographer Lynn Goldsmith, who is renowned for both her celebrity portraits and fine art images. Goldsmith’s exhibition at the Downtown Sarasota campus will combine stunning images of flowers with intimate portraits of Selby Gardens’ artist in residence, Patti Smith.
The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall is thrilled to welcome Rumours of Fleetwood Mac to Sarasota on Saturday October 17, at 7pm bringing the ultimate tribute to one of rock and roll’s most memorable groups. Tickets for this performance go on sale Friday, June 26 at 10:00am.
Nathan Benderson Park and The Pops Orchestra of Bradenton and Sarasota are proud to announce the return of one of the Suncoast's most beloved patriotic traditions: Fireworks on the Lake - America 250, a spectacular celebration taking place on July 3, 2026, at Nathan Benderson Park. For tickets, sponsorship opportunities, and event details, visit FireworksOnTheLake.com, call 941-358-7275, email info@nathanbendersonpark.org, or message Nathan Benderson Park on social media.
Tripletail Seafood & Spirits delicious Sunday Brunch is from 11am-3pm. Guests are invited to indulge in a delightful brunch experience on the beautiful covered patio or casual dining room with nautical touches. The 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. Guests will receive a complimentary Bloody Mary or Mimosa with the purchase of any entrée. Prices range from $13 to $26. Reservations can be made through Open Table or by calling 941-529-0555.
Tripletail Seafood & Spirits, 4870 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota
Think while you drink! 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.
Join 83 Tavern on Tuesday, June 23, for an exclusive Basil Hayden Bourbon Dinner featuring an evening of fine bourbon and expertly prepared cuisine. Guests will begin with a welcome cocktail before enjoying three Basil Hayden tastings paired with a four-course chef-crafted dinner. The experience concludes with a special bonus tasting, giving attendees the opportunity to further explore the distinctive flavors of this celebrated bourbon. This unique event is ideal for bourbon enthusiasts and food lovers alike. Seating is limited, and reservations are strongly encouraged to secure a spot.
83 Tavern , 8383 S Tamiami Trl #108, Sarasota
Explore the growing evidence that supports different behaviors which optimize creative thinking for innovation processes: high-focus work and restorative activities. Learn how space design can cultivate the creativity necessary to spark innovation.
Architecture Sarasota, 265 S Orange Ave, Sarasota
Discover Sarasota Tours offers first Bradenton Trolley Tour running twice this summer called Bar Bites Trolley. This fun three-hour happy-hour themed tour is perfect for beating the summer heat and features stops at two restaurants: enRich Bistro and Oak & Stone for savory appetizers, summer-soaked cocktails, and beautiful water views. Along the route, singer Michelle Pruyn and owner Tammy Hauser will entertain guests with sing-along songs, trivia, and Bradenton history. Drinks can be purchased separately and are not part of the ticket price of $89.99. This savory Bradenton tour runs on Thursdays from 4-6:30PM on June 25 and July 23.
Curious about the Mediterranean Way of Eating? Join us for Cooking Up Health: The Mediterranean Way, an engaging, educational series that will transform your approach to food! Discover seven simple steps to healthier meals, learn easy recipes, and pick up practical tips that fit right into your everyday life. Registration includes a recipe book. 6-Week Program, Mondays: 7/27, 8/3, 8/10, 8/17, 8/24, and 8/31 from 6:00pm to 7:00pm. This class will be virtual and will have a cost of $10 per person. Zoom link for the class will be emailed to participants before the start of class.
Virtual, Virtual
Enjoy an evening packed with family-friendly fun, including games and activities on the Great Lawn, the mesmerizing Spheres Bubble Show by Blaise Rhynds, and a spectacular fireworks finale lighting up Sarasota Bay. Come hungry and ready to celebrate! Feast on smoky barbecue favorites, cool off with refreshing frozen treats, and indulge in festive summer sweets available for purchase throughout the evening from a variety of local vendors. This event is rain or shine. General Admission and all-inclusive tickets available. General admission guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and bug spray for maximum comfort. All-Inclusive tickets (no member price) include on-site parking, a delicious buffet dinner by Michael’s On East, an open bar inside our air-conditioned Event Center, and prime viewing of the fireworks! Visit selby.org for tickets.
Downtown Sarasota Campus, 1534 Mound St, Sarasota
Sarasota and Manatee County residents are invited to trade their everyday routine for a day full of Caribbean culture, craft cocktails, and live music when Pina Colada Fest 2026 takes over The Palmetto Marriott Resort and Spa on Saturday, July 25, 2026, from 10am-6pm. With a day pass, you will enjoy for a whole day a lineup of live Caribbean entertainment, including a Steel Drum Band, Sarasota's beloved Latin American fusion group Combo Fusion, Fleming, and high-energy sets from our Host, DJ Platinum.
The Palmetto Marriott Resort and Spa , The Palmetto Marriott Resort and Spa, Palmetto, Florida
Art immersion class for children ages 6-18. Small classes with fine arts materials. Visit linarinconart.com for more information and to register.
Creative Liberties Artist Studios, Gallery & Creative Academy, 927 N Lime Ave., Sarasota, FL 34237
The summer 2026 exhibition at Selby Gardens will celebrate the creative collaboration between two legendary figures and longtime friends, photographer Lynn Goldsmith and singer-songwriter Patti Smith, who is Selby Gardens’ artist in residence. The exhibition will feature Goldsmith’s photographs of Smith, past and present, in the Museum of Botany & the Arts. The images will offer an intimate portrait of an iconic artist over the course of her remarkable career.
Selby Gardens, 1534 Mound St, Sarasota, FL 34236
Mayer explores the impact of technology on the human body through this interactive sculpture series. Slumpies invites viewers to sit and slump on these sculptures, much like furniture, and find a place of comfort while using their technological devices.
Sarasota Art Museum, 1001 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, FL 34236
Delightfully Funky Since 1997, Blase Martini Bar in Siesta Key Village has been Sarasota’s cozy, funky go-to for inventive food, handcrafted martinis, and a one-of-a-kind atmosphere. It’s perfect for date nights or casual hangouts—offering bold flavors, expertly mixed drinks, and a setting that feels both relaxed and refreshingly unique. Join us for the launch of our Summer Pizza & Martini Menu, featuring hand-tossed specialty Pizzas, Pineapple Upside Down Vodka Martini for June, Siesta Suns Orange Vodka in July & Just Peachy Vodka Martini in August.
Blase Martini Bar in Siesta Key Village, 5263 Ocean Blvd, Siesta Key
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 |
Powered by Sarasota Web Design | Unsubscribe
