SRQ DAILY Sep 1, 2026
Tuesday Dining and Food Edition
"It cuts time, and it cuts the bad things out of your meals."
As families transition into the hectic back-to-school season, weekday dinners often take a back seat. Eleonora Raso, co-owner of Good Food Society, understands that time crunch intimately.
“When I had my daughters, I was always in a rush,” Raso says. “I didn't have time to cook or time to clean up.” She also grew frustrated with typical classroom meal options. “When I looked at my kids' school lunch, I was horrified,” she says. “After how much you pay, they come up with mac-n-cheese and chicken tenders.”
Raso sought meals prepared from scratch using organic, locally sourced ingredients, free of seed oils and preservatives. Finding nothing suitable, she and her husband Luigi created their own delivery service for busy parents. Both Rasos trained as chefs in Italy. Their Sarasota roots stretch back decades: her family owned Bacco's downtown and a hotel on St. Armands Circle. After Hurricane Helene destroyed their two Anna Maria Island restaurants, the couple started the Harvest and Heart food truck last October, followed by Good Food Society this spring.
Every week, Good Food Society publishes a fresh online menu from its commissary kitchen. Portions come sized for two, four or six, offering gluten-free options and competitive pricing against typical supermarket receipts. “It basically costs as much as doing the shopping and cooking,” Raso says. “It cuts time, and it cuts the bad things out of your meals.”
Every dish balances protein and vegetables, designed to fuel a busy day. Recent menus featured a garden bowl of grilled herb salmon with quinoa, peaches and goat cheese. The beef stir-fry tosses strips of locally sourced beef with broccoli and bell peppers over brown rice. The kitchen channels classic Italian comfort into baked ziti, flounder piccata and house-made Sunday meatloaf. Sweet-tooth satisfactions include flourless chocolate cake and mini cookie flights.
Good Food Society, Tues-Fri deliveries 12-3 pm, serving Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch, Venice, Parrish,941-424-6894, goodfoodsocietysrq.com. 
Pictured: Shrimp bowl with romaine, queso fresco, red onion and lemon-lime vinaigrette. Photo courtesy of Good Food Society.
The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall is raising the curtain on an unforgettable 2026–2027 season, bringing an extraordinary lineup of Broadway's biggest national tours, legendary musicians, acclaimed comedians, dazzling theatrical productions and holiday favorites to Sarasota. From Tony Award-winning musicals and iconic recording artists to family-friendly spectacles and one-of-a-kind live concert experiences, the new season celebrates the power of performance for every generation.
The Hermitage Artist Retreat recently announced a new October program on the Hermitage Beach featuring acclaimed poet and Pulitzer Prize finalist Robyn Schiff, alongside celebrated drummer and music producer Sarah Galdes. On Thursday, October 29 at 5:30pm, these two talented Hermitage artists will offer a program of poetry and percussion on the Hermitage Beach with “We Got the Beat: Poetry & Percussion.” Join us for the first beach program of the fall season as these renowned artists share their original work and discuss their respective journeys as the sun sets into the Gulf. For more information about the Hermitage and upcoming programs, visit: HermitageArtistRetreat.org.
Pictured: Hermitage Fellow and Percussionist Sarah Galdes. Provided photo.
Tickets to our popular Halloween-inspired light show are now open to everyone! Don't miss the chance to see our Historic Spanish Point campus transformed into “Spooky Point" where you can follow an eerily lit path and encounter fantastic creations and bootanically-themed decorations along the way. Equal parts campy, creepy, and cute, this walk-through show is fun for all ages. Food and beverages will be available for purchase.
Artist Series Concerts of Sarasota (ASC) has reprogrammed the Sticks and Strings Lunch & Listen concert scheduled for January 14, 2027 at Sarasota Yacht Club. Previously scheduled percussionist Marcelina Suchocka has withdrawn from the concert due to personal family reasons, and ASC is thrilled to announce the concert will now feature founding directors of ensembleNEWSRQ Samantha Bennett and George Nickson. For more information about Artist Series Concerts and to purchase tickets, visit ArtistSeriesConcerts.org or call 941-306-1202.
Michael Saunders & Company is pleased to announce that Sarah Schneider has joined the firm's St. Petersburg office, bringing a client-first philosophy shaped by more than two decades of service-focused professional experience and a deep appreciation for the city's unique neighborhoods and lifestyle. Originally from Midland, Michigan, Schneider's path to St. Petersburg included living in North Carolina, Atlanta, California and Charleston before discovering the city she now proudly calls home. Having experienced multiple relocations herself, she understands both the excitement and challenges that come with moving and strives to help others navigate the process with confidence.
DNL Upholstery's new location in Palmetto is now open. Continuing the Rosier families 57 years of servicing the Palmetto area we are honored to keep their time-honored tradition going with the same location and same level of craftsmanship and integrity. We are a full-service shop with over 100 years' experience in all aspects of upholstery including furniture, marine, residential, commercial, auto and RV. Stop by and see our beautiful shop in action! We are dedicated to keeping the art of fine upholstery alive with our active apprentice program to assure the next generation learns and appreciates our artistry! The coffee is on, stop by and let's make something beautiful together!
Sarasota County Schools is proud to bring back our CEOs in Schools initiative this year! What does it take to lead a school? From supporting students and staff to managing budgets, operations, safety, and community partnerships, school principals balance an extraordinary range of responsibilities every day. Through this initiative, local business and community leaders are invited to experience those responsibilities firsthand. This unique program pairs a business leader with a Sarasota County Schools principal for either a half-day or full-day shadowing experience. Participants will have the opportunity to observe the daily operations of a school, interact with students and staff, attend meetings, and gain an inside look at the challenges and opportunities facing public education today.
Sarasota County Schools is inviting families to participate in its 2026–2027 Virtual Lunch & Learn series, featuring monthly sessions designed to provide practical information and strategies that support student learning and family well-being. Each virtual session will be held from 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM and will include a short presentation followed by time for questions and answers. Families can grab their lunch, log on from any convenient location, and connect with district staff while exploring a new topic each month. The series begins Wednesday, September 9, 2026, with “Preparing for Parent-Teacher Conferences”. This session will help families make the most of conversations with teachers and better understand how they can work together to support student success.For additional information, contact Dr. Deirdre Brady at 941-927-9000, ext. 31616, or deirdre.brady@sarasotacountyschools.net.
The November election will include more than candidates. Voters will also be asked to decide important state constitutional amendments and local ballot initiatives that could have long-term impacts on Sarasota County. Join us for CONA’s September public meeting for an informative look at what will be on your ballot and what these measures mean.
Tuesday, September 8, 6:00–7:30pm, Gulf Gate Library, Meeting Room A, 7112 Curtiss Avenue, Sarasota.
Residents are invited to apply for assistance to purchase a home or make critical repairs to their existing home through the State Housing Initiatives Partnership (SHIP) Program. Sarasota County has $1.7 million available through the Housing Enhancement and Redevelopment Office to support safe and affordable housing for income-eligible residents. Applications open Tuesday, Sept. 1 on HEROSRQ.net. Awards will be issued on a first-come, first-approved basis. Very low- and low-income residents are eligible to apply. Priority will be given to those with special needs. For more information, visit HEROSRQ.net, call 941-861-5336 or email SHIP@scgov.net.
Join us on November 6 at Michael’s On East for the 2026 Women Who Roar Leadership Awards, a celebration of the exceptional women shaping the Sarasota and Bradenton community through business, entrepreneurship, philanthropy, innovation and leadership. This inspiring gathering brings together women in business and community leaders to connect, celebrate and honor the remarkable women whose vision and contributions are making a lasting impact across our region.
November 6, 2026 at Michael's On East
The Annual Giving Coast Luncheon celebrates the independent sector in the Sarasota and Manatee region featuring the Philanthropic Agenda With Community Foundations and the Good Hero Awards Program. Join us on December 9, 2026 at Michael's on East to celebrate our local heros. Tickets and tables are now available!
Michael's on East, 1212 S. East Avenue, Sarasota, FL
Each year, SRQ MEIDA recognizes local leading women who have deeply contributed to our community through their business, philanthropic, health and wellness, entrepreneurial, cultural, science, technology and educational endeavors through the Women Who Roar Initiative. We invite our readers to nominate an individual who best exemplifies the attributes of professional acumen, philanthropic passion, personal integrity and community leadership. Gather with us on November 6, 2026 at Michael's on East. Reserve a spot today!
Michael's on East, 1212 S. East Avenue, Sarasota, FL
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.
Win prizes while you think, drink and enjoy food at Lefty's Oyster and Seafood Bar at trivia nights every Tuesday. Trivia Nation hosts a Game Show Loco Trivia experience inspired by classic game shows like Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy. Test your knowledge across a variety of categories, make strategic choices and try your luck with games of chance. Bring your friends, family and coworkers, or jump in and join a team when you arrive.
Lefty's Oyster and Seafood Bar, 428 N Lemon Ave., Sarasota
Every Saturday and Sunday, Cask and Ale on Main Street lifts a toast and taps a toe to a delicious brunch with a diverse chef-prepared menu. Try the rotating chef's special menu, bottomless mimosas and a wide selection of craft cocktails. On Sundays, hear live jazz music from 12pm-4pm.
Cask and Ale, 1548 Main St., Sarasota
Enjoy a delicious brunch offered every Sunday at Tripletail Seafood and Spirits on the beautiful covered patio or casual dining room. The menu features a variety of dishes created by Chef Cesareo Cardenas, including his decadent creme brulee French toast, steak and eggs, lobster benedict, crab and shrimp omelet and the Tripletail brunch burger. Guests will receive a complimentary Bloody Mary or mimosa with the purchase of any entree.
Tripletail Seafood and Spirits, 4870 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
Celebrate two decades of community leadership and the lasting impact of investing in young people at the 20th Annual IPG Leadership Breakfast. This event will honor the legacy of those who have helped shape great futures while looking ahead to the next generation of leaders who will continue to strengthen Sarasota and DeSoto Counties for years to come.
Lee Wetherington Boys and Girls Club of Sarasota, 3100 Fruitville Rd., Sarasota
Celebrating its 17th year, the Venice Craft Festival showcases vendors throughout Downtown Venice on Labor Day Weekend. Visitors can explore a wide array of handmade items from jewelry and ceramics to coastal decor and candles. You can also bring your pets to this family-friendly event.
Downtown Venice, 200 Miami Ave. W, Venice
SCS College Night brings together colleges, universities, technical programs and military representatives from across the country to help students and families explore postsecondary options. This event is open to all high school students, grades 9-12, and their families. Meet with admissions representatives, learn about financial aid, explore career and technical education pathways, discover careers in the military and ask questions about admissions, housing and campus life.
Suncoast Technical College, 4748 S Beneva Rd., Sarasota
Sketch, sip and socialize at Art Center Sarasota's Evening Figure Drawing, launching this September as part of the new Creative Happy Hour series. Spend a relaxed, inspiring evening sketching from a live, costumed model in a welcoming atmosphere. All experience levels are welcome. Beer, wine and other beverages will be available for purchase.
Art Center Sarasota, 707 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
In its third year, this Wellen Park festival invites family and friends into a traditional Oktoberfest atmosphere with German dancers, a live polka band, a stein-hoisting competition and plenty of beer and brats. Experience the inaugural keg tapping and hear the DeLeon Family Oktoberfest Band with three generations of accordion players. Food and drink options include Banyan House, La Maison, Pop Dawgs and more. Parking lots and street parking are available along Sunglow Boulevard and Springtide Way.
Downtown Wellen Park, 19745 Wellen Park Blvd, Venice
Based on the novel by Bram Stoker and adapted by Ren Pearson, The Players Studio Black Box invites audiences into the shadows with one of the most iconic Gothic tales ever written. Mysterious, thrilling, romantic and terrifying, Dracula will explore fear, obsession and the darkness that lives just beneath the surface.
The Players Studio Black Box, 1400 Blvd. of the Arts, Sarasota
In its 21st season titled Raices y Vuelos, Sarasota Contemporary Dance partners with acclaimed bassist Johnnie Barker and The Barker Project for a high-energy collaboration that fuses live music and contemporary dance into an electrifying shared experience. Known for its signature combination of jazz, funk, blues, rock and gospel, The Barker Project brings a fluid, improvisational sound world that meets SCD's dynamic movement language in real time.
Manatee Performing Arts Center, 502 3rd Ave. W, Bradenton
The popular Halloween-inspired light show returns to Selby Gardens' Historic Spanish Point! The campus is transformed into Spooky Point where you can follow an eerily lit path and encounter fantastic creations and boo-tanically-themed decorations along the way. Equal parts campy, creepy and cute, this walk-through show is fun for all ages. Tickets go on sale August 24.
Historic Spanish Point Campus, 401 N Tamiami Trl, Osprey
This spirited musical ghost trolley tour with an historic bent returns for its 8th year with tour times at 7pm or 8:30pm. Talented cast members Kaylene McCaw and MariAnne Hernandez alternate as Lady Melody, the tour's ghost hostess, and tell stories of haunted buildings as they welcome aboard mystery spirits played by David Springer, Michael De Mocko, Olivia Turpening and Sarah Van Keuren. Prizes are awarded for best costume each night. Tickets include complimentary beer or wine before boarding and free parking.
Discover Sarasota Tours, 1826 4th St., Sarasota
To open Sarasota Ballet's upcoming season, hear a special selection of Sir Frederick Ashton's celebrated Divertissements, offering a suite of excerpts from some of his most renowned works. Meditation from Thais, Friday's Child from Jazz Calendar, Pas de Trois from Les Rendezvous and intricate ensemble patterns of Pas de Cinq from Illuminations will take the stage. Gemma Bond tests the limits of composure with Manner, a Company premiere that explores inherited and performed behaviors through intimate choreography.
FSU Center for the Performing Arts, 5555 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
This Tony-winning stage musical is about a shy high school student with social anxiety who becomes entangled in a lie after a classmate’s suicide. By fabricating a friendship with the deceased, Evan finds the popularity and connection he always craved. He faces a crisis when his deception threatens to unravel his life and ruin his relationships. Dear Evan Hansen reminds us all that–even in our loneliest moments–you will be found.
Manatee Performing Arts Center, 502 3rd Ave. W, Bradenton
This new outdoor music event celebrates the missions of both The Pops Orchestra of Bradenton and Palma Sola Botanical Park through live performances, natural beauty and opportunities to gather with friends. Guests will enjoy the scenic grounds of the Park while listening to live jazz from The Pops Orchestra's Jazz Combo. Valet parking and food add-ons will be available, and guests are encouraged to bring blankets and lawn chairs.
Palma Sola Botanical Park, 9800 17th Ave. NW, Bradenton
Ringling College of Art and Design alum Chie Fueki synthesizes Japanese ukiyo-e atmospheric techniques with Western abstraction, perspectival space and practices of overlay and juxtaposition. Drawing from her own Japanese and Brazilian heritage, Fueki's vibrant and densely layered works dance with an elaborate interplay of painting, drawing and constructed mulberry paper compositions. Spanning 25 years of Fueki's career, these works carve out familiar scenes that fuse figuration and abstraction to create an intricate floating world.
Sarasota Art Museum Ringling College Museum Campus, 1001 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
Explore the collection of photographer and humanitarian Judy Glickman Lauder in this exhibit featuring approximately 100 photographs by over 50 artists. Presence creates an inspiring dialogue through tender portraits, candid photojournalism and spontaneous cityscapes. See works by Diane Arbus, Richard Avedon, Danny Lyon, Gordon Parks and more.
Sarasota Art Museum Ringling College Museum Campus, 1001 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
Hear this award-winning Chicago-based saxophone quartet at the First Presbyterian Church of Sarasota for an evening of lively contemporary music. Synchrony Quartet features Philip Kleutgens on soprano saxophone, Hudson O'Reilly on alto, Matthew Johnson on tenor and Haven Kahn on baritone. The program includes works by Caroline Shaw, Anton Webern, Astor Piazzolla and more. After the concert, join the musicians at a meet and greet with light refreshments.
First Presbyterian Church, 2050 Oak St., Sarasota
Sarasota's swankiest slumber party returns for its second year in support of Teen Court of Sarasota's restorative justice, prevention, counseling and youth development programs. Justice and Jammies will feature dinner, dancing, live auction experiences, mission moments and an official after-party. Funds raised will help Teen Court continue expanding services that guide young people toward accountability, leadership and brighter futures. Tickets go on sale August 1.
The Westin Sarasota, 100 Marina View Dr., Sarasota
To kick off The Ringling's 2026-27 season, experience an unforgettable celebration under the stars in the Museum of Art Courtyard. Enjoy a first look at the upcoming season's world-class exhibitions, live performances and inspiring educational performances. Hear an electrifying performance by GRAMMY-nominated Cuban vocalist Jose Pepito Gomez and his dynamic ensemble, La Royal Orquesta. Food and drinks are available for purchase, and doors open at 7pm.
The Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Rd., Sarasota
The seventh year of the popular Hermitage Sunsets at Selby Gardens will feature six programs between the Selby Gardens Downtown and Historic Spanish Point campuses. See performances and explorations of works-in-progress by Hermitage artists-in-residence and alumni. Dates include October 16, November 20, February 11, Feburary 25, March 18 and May 6. The first event, New Music Under the Old Oak, is at the Downtown Sarasota Campus at 5:30pm.
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, Downtown Sarasota campus and Historic Spanish Point campus, 1534 Mound St., Sarasota
This rock musical adaptation of Stephen King's novel follows Carrie White, a shy, bullied teenage outcast with telekinetic powers. Dominatingly controlled by her religious fanatic mother at home and tormented by peers at school, Carrie unleashes her destructive powers on prom night after a cruel prank. Powerful vocals and raw storytelling will leave you on the edge of your seat.
Manatee Performing Arts Center, 502 3rd Ave. W, Bradenton
Hear Duke Ellington's music as you've never heard it before with this Tony Award-winning theatrical journey. Directed by Jim Weaver, Sophisticated Ladies shares elegant and timeless hits including It Don't Mean A Thing If It Ain't Got That Swing and Don't Get Around Much Anymore. Every song tells its own story of the romance, humor and refined style of the time. Performances are offered at 2:00pm and 7:30pm.
Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe, 1012 N Orange Ave., Sarasota
Join Project Pride SRQ for a joyful day of Pride, community and celebration in Sarasota to bring together LGBTQ+ residents, families, allies, artists, local businesses, nonprofits, sponsors, volunteers and community partners. Explore a lively vendor marketplace, connect with local organizations and resources, enjoy delicious food, experience live performances and celebrate in an inclusive, welcoming atmosphere built around visibility, joy and belonging.
Project Pride SRQ, 1370 Blvd of the Arts, Sarasota
Celebrating 15 years of Strider Cup World Championships, this event will bring together hundreds of toddlers and preschoolers from across the globe to the same track that Olympians will be racing on to qualify for LA28. Register your 2-, 3- or 4-year-olds to race on their Strider Bike; no other balance bike brands are allowed. Non-racers and families are welcome to join in and attend the event. Local vendors, games and giveaways are available, along with a beach party on October 11.
Sarasota BMX, 1590 N Tuttle Ave., Sarasota
This gripping musical journey by Karl Jenkins is widely recognized as the most performed classical work by a living composer. Hear musical traditions and texts from cultures around the world that echo a universal plea for peace. The Armed Man moves audiences from conflict to hope in this unforgettable concert experience presented by Key Chorale, with guest artist Amanda Crider.
First United Methodist Church, 104 S Pineapple Ave., Sarasota
Opening the fall 2026–spring 2027 season at SPAACES, this exhibit showcases artists who work outside the public eye. Curator Yosnier Miranda brings together artists who maintain dedicated, disciplined studio practices while choosing not to exhibit their work publicly. Bedroom Communities offers a rare opportunity to encounter work that has largely remained unseen despite years of thoughtful and passionate creation.
SPAACES, 2051 Princeton St., Sarasota
Directed by Preston Boyd, this bold new drama explores guilt, redemption and the search for light in a world shattered by violence. A haunted young Latino gang member and an aging rabbi form an unlikely bond inside a crumbling East L.A. synagogue, now used as a community center. Blending humor, poetry, rap and prayer, the performance asks whether broken souls can find a way to heal.
The Sarasota Players, 3501 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
Open to ages 5-19, this tournament is an awesome opportunity for young anglers to enjoy some friendly competition. Bring your rod and reel, and arrive by 8am for an 8:30am check-in. The tournament begins at 9am.
Lake Uihlein, 8175 Lakewood Ranch Blvd, Bradenton
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 |
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