SRQ DAILY Oct 27, 2026
Tuesday Dining and Food Edition
"We will be shucking and grilling and serving just mere hours after they were harvested."
Lefty’s Oyster & Seafood Bar wants to retire some old oyster lore: eat them only in months with an R. “Since that myth started, there’s been a thing called refrigeration,” says Anne Rollings, executive director of communications for Watershed Hospitality Concepts.
Much of the oyster list at the Rosemary District bar relies on Virginia and points north, since many diners trust only cold-water bivalves. “We’re here to open that conversation so we can support our local and regional Florida farmers and shellfish growers,” Rollings says.
On Thursday, Nov. 19, Shell & Tell, The Party introduces four growers. Tim Solano, a second-generation clam farmer with Cedar Key Aquaculture Farms, brings littlenecks. Cedar Key’s shellfish farms took root after Florida voters banned gill nets in 1994, and many applied for grants and state aquaculture leases. “They’ve grown up around salt water all their life,” Rollings says. “And they know the water.”
Chad Minter of S&M Oyster Co. comes from Panacea, Reed Smith of Calusa Oyster Co. from Tampa and Nicolette Mariano of Treasure Coast Shellfish from Sebastian. All four belong to the Florida Shellfish Aquaculture Association and follow strict state rules for chilling every harvest fast.
Expect oysters raw and grilled, with a “Tell” from each grower. “We will be shucking and grilling and serving just mere hours after they were harvested,” Rollings says. Lefty’s serves linguine tossed with clams in garlicky white-wine butter. Alyssa Solano, Tim’s wife, sets out her legendary clam dip: simmered Cedar Key clams folded into cream cheese with green onions, sharpened with Worcestershire, lemon and Tabasco.
Shellfish pairings include King Estate Artisan Pinot Gris from Oregon, Do Ferreiro Albariño from Spain and Jo Landron Muscadet from France. “It’ll be a feast,” Rollings promises.
Spent shells go to Oyster Boys Conservation, a Venice grassroots group joining the party, which strings them into vertical oyster gardens for the bay. Slurp a Florida oyster at Lefty’s, and its shell may one day cradle the next generation.
Shell & Tell, The Party, Thursday, Nov. 19, Lefty’s Oyster & Seafood Bar, 428 N. Lemon Ave., Sarasota, 941-954-8688. Tickets via Eventbrite. leftysoysterseafood.com #LocalPartnershipsfortheGreaterGood 
Pictured: Florida-farmed oysters meet their match at Lefty's. Credit: Courtesy of Watershed Hospitality.
At the 2026 Hospitality Stars of the Industry Gala, the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association (FRLA) named Richard Gonzmart its Restaurateur of the Year, recognizing his longstanding contributions to Florida’s hospitality industry and his commitment to strengthening the communities he serves. As the fourth-generation caretaker of Tampa’s iconic Columbia Restaurant and a respected industry leader known for championing Florida’s culinary traditions and fostering meaningful connections through hospitality, Gonzmart was honored during the ceremony held in Clearwater Beach.
Downtown Sarasota will become a canvas for creativity on Friday, November 6, as Fresh Fridays presents Beyond the Canvas: A Celebration of the Arts. The free, family-friendly event invites the community to experience Sarasota’s vibrant arts scene through local artists, a digital art projection, live music, local vendors, and interactive experiences throughout downtown. Taking place from 7 to 10 p.m. along North Palm Avenue, Beyond the Canvas celebrates local artists and creative talents that help make Sarasota unique. From discovering local artwork to enjoying live entertainment with friends and family, the evening offers an opportunity for residents and visitors to come together and experience downtown in a new way.
Provided photo.
The New College Foundation is excited to announce the 47th Annual Clambake, a longstanding Sarasota fall tradition, taking place on Thursday, November 5, from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. along the scenic bayfront of College Hall. Co-chaired by Elizabeth Moore and Mary Gratehouse, the evening brings together community leaders, alumni, and supporters to celebrate student achievements while raising vital funds for New College of Florida.Guests will enjoy a traditional New England-style clambake catered by Michael’s On East, live entertainment by the New College of Florida Chamber Orchestra, and inspiring presentations from current students and faculty.
Pineapple Kitchen Kids is bringing its newest children’s Cooking Adventure Storybook to life this holiday season with “The Jingle Jam Cookie Mystery,” a whimsical new Holiday Family Mystery Show presented on select dates at Courtyard by Marriott University Town Center. Written by Mike and Jenny Schenk, The Jingle Jam Cookie Mystery is part of the Pineapple Kitchen Kids Cooking Adventure Storybook series, created to inspire children and families to cook, imagine, laugh and spend meaningful time together in the kitchen. Now, the story moves from the page to the stage in a playful interactive experience where families become part of the mystery. The holiday series begins Saturday, November 28, immediately following Thanksgiving, with a special Family Dinner Buffet Show. Additional performances will be offered throughout December, including both brunch and dinner shows, giving families several opportunities to make the experience part of their holiday celebrations.
As AI reshapes how students learn and work, Ringling College of Art and Design faculty member and AI Coordinator Rick Dakan has developed a course for Anthropicthat helps educators teach the judgment, values, and practical skills students need to collaborate thoughtfully with AI. Learn more about the 4D Framework for AI Fluency offered for free by Anthropic through Claude Academy.
He’s made a list and he’s checked it twice. Your dog has been a good dog all year and deserves to be photographed with Santa. Anne Yarbrough, an award-winning and published professional photographer, is donating her time and talents to capture a memorable photo of your dog with Santa. You’ll receive a digital image, suitable for framing or use on a holiday greeting card. Suggested donation is $35. All proceeds will benefit Donte’s Den Animal Sanctuary. Holiday decorations. Light refreshments and holiday treats. Raffle Baskets. Plan to purchase some delicious homemade dog treats for your dogs by Wholesome Dog Treats by Melissa.
Saturday, December 5, 10am-2:30pm, Donte’s Den, 6801 283rd St. E., Myakka City. Sitting times are limited. To reserve your spot call us at 941.219.3730.
Best of SRQ Local 2027 nominations are now open giving Sarasota-area businesses, organizations and community favorites the chance to make the official ballot. Encourage your customers, clients and community to show their support and nominate your brand during the nomination round. Nominations now close on November 18, 2026! Get ready to rally your community!
Deadline Extended | Nominations now close November 18, 2026
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.
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
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
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
Enjoy fresh produce, local art, music and free family activities on Bradenton's Old Main Street every Saturday from October through May. Local farmers, artisans and chefs share their talents, and you'll always be greeted with a smile from the market vendors.
Old Main Street, 400 12th St. W, Bradenton
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 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
Celebrate The Orchid Show 2026 with an exclusive after-hours viewing of the exhibition along with a cocktail reception and live entertainment by the Sarasota Opera in Selby Gardens' Event Center. The evening is sponsored by Mike and Dee Bennett.
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens Downtown Sarasota Campus, 1534 Mound St., Sarasota
Featuring a special performance by Sarasota Ballet's Dance: The Next Generation program, this high-energy concert highlights a delightfully spooky set list that fills the theater with eerie melodies, playful chills and family-friendly fun. Dancing is inspired by iconic hits like Thriller and The Monster Mash. Costumes, choreography and suprises at every turn make this Halloween-eve celebration truly unforgettable.
Riverview Performing Arts Center, 1 Ram Way, Sarasota
Get ready for a fang-tastic afternoon of fun at Wellen Park's Spooktacular Halloween! Bring family and friends for trick-or-treating, music, costumes and spooky good vibes.
Downtown Wellen Park, 19745 Wellen Park Blvd, Venice
Experience a morning of fall fun at the Runaway Pumpkin 5K and free family festival. Food trucks, trick-or-treating, pumpkin painting, a bounce house, costume contest and PAWS therapy dogs are featured. Kids ages 12 and under can participate in the mini monster dash. Consider donating non-perishable food items that will be distributed to local families facing food insecurity through partnering organizations.
The Child Protection Center's Monda Campus, 5600 Peace River Rd., North Port
Across from Marina Jack's in downtown Sarasota, see a variety of original fine art pieces. Peruse and purchase drawings, fiber works, jewelry, photography, paintings, sculptures and other media. Hot Works focuses on visual arts that are juried by art professionals.
J.D. Hamel Park, 199 Bayfront Dr., Sarasota
The only U.S. stop of the 2026 UCI World Cup brings the world's elite BMX Racing riders to Sarasota on the road to the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games. Sarasota BMX was selected by the UCI to host two UCI World Cup final rounds in 2026 and two in 2027. The facility is home to a year-round local racing program with USA BMX-certified coaching for riders at every level.
Sarasota BMX Track, 1590 N Tuttle Ave., Sarasota
Rhythmic intensity and lyric experimentation are at work in pieces by Timo Andres, Curtis Stewart, Vivian Pung and Charles Wuorinen, and the world premiere of Shawn Allison's Vigil for the Disappeared. Examining the expressive power of music in the absence and aftermath of text, this program of works for smaller forces powerfully reshapes our perception of time and sound.
First Congregational Church, 1031 S Euclid Ave., Sarasota
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
A celebration of American passion for freedom, opportunity and expression, this concert features choral and instrumental music by Benjamin Britten, Anton Dvorak and a host of American composers part and present, performed by choir and string orchestra.
First Presbyterian Church, 2050 Oak St., Sarasota
Learn about Sarasota history with guide John McCarthy on this relaxing cruise to learn illuminating facts about the region. This event is a major fundraiser that helps with the restoration and preservation of the Crocker Memorial Church and the Bidwell-Wood House. Enjoy snacks and a cash bar on board the LeBarge. Reserve tickets soon because seating is limited. Meet at Bayfront Park on the lawn in front of LeBarge at 10:30am to receive your name badge, which serves as your entry ticket.
Bayfront Park, 5 Bayfront Dr., Sarasota
Celebrating 20 years, Bowls of Hope attendees select offerings from dozens of the community's finest restaurants and caterers as they serve delicious soups, bread, desserts and more. Guests choose from beautiful, handcrafted bowls–all donated by local potters, artists and students–to keep, while enjoying a modest meal as a reminder of the empty bowls they help to fill. This year's event is chaired by Ruth Hochman. Individual tickets go on sale October 1.
Ed Smith Stadium, 2700 12th St., Sarasota
The annual Living Arts Festival showcases diverse art forms in Sarasota through performances, visual art, family events and live music. Throughout Bradenton, Sarasota and Venice, see the Sarasota Orchestra, Artists on Art: Photography, Rising Stars Talent Show, Creative Liberties Galleries, Perlman Music Program, Jazz Club of Sarasota and more. This is your opportunity to join the community in shared experiences, strengthening the connections that make the Cultural Coast a wonderful place to live, work and visit.
Celebrating its third year, this two-day alfresco event features an exclusive five-course wine dinner on Friday, November 13 and an introductory wine tasting class and the promenade Grand Tasting along Wellen Park Boulevard on Saturday, November 14. Guests can also enjoy live contemporary jazz music, shopping and small bites from Acqua Pazza Coastal Italian, Agave Bandido, The Banyan House, La Maison and more. Aside from admission, a general admission ticket includes a commemorative wine glass, a signature event tote, unlimited wine tastings and four food tasting tickets to redeem at participating restaurant tents.
Solis Hall, 19745 Wellen Pk Blvd, Venice
Since 2010, this four-day event has brought together talented master sand sculptors from around the world to transform Siesta's famous sand into stunning, large-scale works of art. Visitors can enjoy live music, local food and drink, shopping, sand sculpting demonstrations and family-friendly activities–all set against the backdrop of one of America's top-ranked beaches. Whether you're an art lover, beachgoer or local supporter, the Crystal Classic offers a truly unique experience that inspires creativity and brings the community together year after year.
Siesta Key Beach, 948 Beach Rd., Sarasota
Visit the beautiful Phillippi Estate for Friends of the Sarasota County History Center's third annual picnic fundraiser. Enjoy a variety of offerings from food trucks and listen to Paisley Craze Band perform rockadelic 60s hits. Advance reservations open September 14.
Phillippi Estate Park, 5500 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
As part of ASC's Lighter Fare series, the joyful trio Biriba Union performs original compositions that draw on the freestyle theatrics of hip-hop and Go-go music, the effortless beauty of Brazilian forro and choro, the earthiness of American roots music and the improvisational spontaneity of jazz. Hear Mike Block on cello and vocals, Christylez Bacon on beatbox, guitar and rhymes, and Patricia Ligia on electric bass and vocals. This open seating concert will be held outdoors at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, weather permitting. A cash bar by Michael's on East will also be available.
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, Downtown Sarasota Campus, 1534 Mound St., Sarasota
Holiday shoppers can explore a cultivated European holiday-inspired experience featuring unique merchants offering handmade crafts, culinary delights, interactive attractions and a visit from Old Saint Nicholas. This year's market has more than doubled its merchant stalls with more than 80 merchants, both new and returning. Try European-inspired dishes and beverages, Polish pierogies, specialty cocktails and fresh holiday coffee.
Bradenton Area Convention Center, 1 Haben Blvd, Palmetto
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