SRQ DAILY Nov 10, 2026
Tuesday Dining and Food Edition
"Whatever you think somebody might like, I think that we'vee got it."
Samantha Spontak knows what a beach day needs. Stop by Market on Whitney, on Longboat Key, and she’ll guide you toward a small-format cheese and “some really great crackers to go with it.” Add a cold bottle of sparkling non-alcoholic white tea, she says, “so you are picnic-ready.”
Spontak opened the shop mere weeks after Artisan Cheese Company closed in Sarasota's Rosemary District, ending her seven years there. “I cried a little bit,” she says, “then talked to my family and just pulled myself together.” A friend in the plaza connected her to the landlord, so “it all happened in 24, 48 hours.” Fellow alum Jessica Hirschauer followed her. “To have her by my side through all of this is really special,” Spontak says.
A classically trained pastry chef, Spontak turns out cookies, brownies, jammy biscuits and tea cakes. On Fridays and Saturdays, she bakes what she calls “big giant cool cinnamon rolls,” a new flavor each week.
Holiday hosts can pre-order pies, such as her gluten-free, “not-so-classic” key lime with passion fruit whip in a coconut macadamia crust. For pumpkin, she spikes the filling with chai spice. Feeding a crowd? Spontak draws on her Artisan years for cheeseboards, from a three-cheese spread to five, with walnuts and dried apricots, plus soppressata or prosciutto.
A browse here might turn up Hudson Valley maple syrup or plant-based fig salami from Greece. Anna’s Stroopwafels sit beside Big Spoon nut butters. Dick Taylor’s “incredible” chocolate-covered cherries make a great hostess gift, Spontak says, as do the cookbooks. “Whatever you think somebody might like, I think that we’ve got it.”
Closer to home, she was down to her last jar of Pa’s Peanuts, while Sunshine Canning supplies pickles, and Homestead Hydroponic Farm sends greens, along with fall bouquets. “A lot of people don’t leave the island,” Spontak says. “So if they don’t have to cross the bridge to get those things that they love, I’m glad to have them on my shelves.”
Market on Whitney, Tues-Fri 10 am-6 pm, Sat 8 am-4 pm, 6842 Gulf of Mexico Dr, Longboat Key, 941-444-7227, @marketonwhitney. Thanksgiving pickup: Nov. 25. Cheeseboards with 48 hrs’ notice. 
Pictured: House-baked treats at Market on Whitney. Photo by Alex Alfaro.
Celebrate the season with the brilliant sounds of brass at the inaugural Holiday Brass Sarasota concert on Saturday, December 5, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. at Pine Shores Presbyterian Church, presented by The Pops Orchestra of Bradenton & Sarasota in collaboration with the International Women's Brass Conference (IWBC). For the first time, this beloved concert tradition is coming to Florida's Gulf Coast, bringing together outstanding brass musicians from across Florida and beyond and featuring Dr. Robyn Bell, the dynamic director of The Pops Orchestra of Bradenton and Sarasota.
What happens when Olympic figure skating meets the thrills of the circus? Sarasota is about to find out! November 21-28, Circus Arts Conservatory is transforming the Sailor Circus Arena into an ice rink for AIR & ICE, a new production featuring world-class figure skaters and internationally acclaimed circus performers. AIR & ICE represents an exciting new chapter in Sarasota's nearly century-long circus story. This production is a bold departure from traditional circus productions and an opportunity for CAC to introduce audiences to something completely fresh. Leading the skating cast is Kurt Browning, three-time Olympian and four-time Canadian and World Champion, alongside U.S. National Champion Alissa Czisny and more than two dozen skaters and circus artists. Expect breathtaking jumps, spins, aerial artistry, acrobatics, juggling and gravity-defying performances—all in one extraordinary show.
The Watershed Hospitality Concepts family is pleased to announce the addition of the 8 Ball Lounge to the siblings in their portfolio. Chip White and Mike Quillen took the reins of the neighborhood bar this Fall and will continue the 8 Ball’s tradition of good times, karaoke, well-made cocktails, pool tables and dart boards, all in a smoke-free local tavern. With a reputation as Sarasota's Premier Pool and Dart Haven and with the friendly vibes neighborhood bars aspire to, 8 Ball Lounge has been delivering its unique brand of hospitality for over twenty years. Additionally, WHC has elected to conclude operations at one of its downtown restaurants, Pie On Main, as it looks ahead and focuses on the growth of their other properties. The independent restaurant family includes the venerable Red Barn Bar and WHC’s three restaurants, Blasé Martini Bar on Siesta Key and Cask & Ale and Lefty’s Oyster & Seafood Bar in Downtown Sarasota. Look for more to come on 8 Ball Lounge in December.
Café on St. Armands is setting the table for Thanksgiving with a holiday menu that gives guests the comfort of tradition alongside the Mediterranean-inspired flavors that have become part of the Café experience. Thanksgiving Day begins with brunch offerings before transitioning into an afternoon and evening of holiday dining. Guests looking for the classics can enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving turkey plate with seasonal sides, while the menu also offers options including prime rib, pistachio-crusted lamb, Moroccan crispy duck, feta-crusted grouper, and Youvetsi. Brunch brings its own holiday twist with selections including Benedicts and Country Fried Prime Rib, while seasonal starters, sides, and desserts round out the celebration. Whether guests are gathering for turkey and all the fixings or looking for something a little different this Thanksgiving, Café offers a way to celebrate on St. Armands Circle without spending the holiday in the kitchen.
Reservations are strongly recommended, with the last seating at 6:30 PM.
Thursday, November 26, 2026, Last seating: 6:30 pm , Café on St. Armands , 431 St. Armands Circle, Sarasota.
Anna Maria Oyster Bar is showing its gratitude to those who have served with a Veterans Day offer available at all six locations on November 11. Veterans and active-duty military members will receive 50% off their meal when dining in throughout the day. The offer is Anna Maria Oyster Bar’s way of saying thank you to the men and women who have served our country and recognizing the sacrifices made by veterans, active-duty service members, and their families.
Wednesday, November 11, 2026 , All day , All Anna Maria Oyster Bar locations.
Eat, Drink, Enjoy & Learn at Lefty's Oyster and Seafood Bar's Shell & Tell, The Party! Join us Nov. 19 for our 'All You Can Enjoy' feast; hear from the Florida growers who harvested hours before you enjoy the freshest shellfish our Florida waters offer, paired with curated wines.
If you're hosting Thanksgiving, Taste of Spain has a selection of homemade appetizers, croquetas, empanadas and Spanish cheese and charcuterie platters to make entertaining a little easier. And for something sweet, they also offer homemade desserts, all made from scratch. Please place your orders ahead of time.
One of Sarasota's most anticipated holiday traditions returns Thanksgiving weekend as Key Chorale and The Sarasota Ballet Studio Company join forces for Nowell, Nowell, an extraordinary celebration of music, dance, and the spirit of the season. The performance takes place Sunday, November 29, at 4 p.m. at the Sarasota Opera House. Now in its eighth annual collaboration with The Sarasota Ballet Studio Company, Nowell, Nowell brings together the 100 voices of Key Chorale, the Key Chorale Orchestra, acclaimed soprano Katherine Henly, bass-baritone Jesse Martin, and 31 dancers from The Sarasota Ballet Studio Company for an afternoon of festive music and captivating choreography.
The Glenridge Performing Arts Center (GPAC) continues its 2026–2027 season with an eclectic lineup of music, dance and storytelling, from holiday rock and roll and big band jazz to soulful vocals and dazzling tap dancing. Among the upcoming highlights is a little-known chapter of American entertainment history that takes center stage November 22, when Sharon Preston-Folta, daughter of jazz legend Louis Armstrong and performer Lucille “Sweets” Preston, joins forces with Sarasota Contemporary Dance to celebrate her mother's legacy. The production, Lucille ‘Sweets’ Preston: Flash Acts in Black Vaudeville, combines storytelling and dance to illuminate the lives and artistry of Black performers who helped shape American popular entertainment during the 1930s and 1940s. Directed by Leymis Bolaños Wilmott with choreography by Monessa Salley, the program explores a vibrant chapter of cultural history that has often been overlooked.
Pictured: Sharon Preston-Folta shares her mother's story in Lucille Sweets Preston: Flash Acts in Black Vaudeville on November 22 at the Glenridge Performing Arts Center. Provided photo.
Yellow Bird Cleaning, a commercial cleaning company based in Sarasota, has launched a client reporting portal that gives its commercial accounts a verified record of every cleaning visit. Commercial cleaning usually happens after hours, when no one from the client's team is in the building. Yellow Bird's portal is built to close that gap. Crews work from a property-specific checklist on their phones and mark each task as it is completed during the visit. Property managers, association boards, and facility contacts receive a private link where they can review the visit log and service record for their property at any time.
Best of SRQ Local 2027 is here! This competition celebrates the locally owned restaurants, shops, organizations, people, experiences, and cant-miss spots that make our community one of a kind. Encourage your customers, clients, and community to vote for a chance to get on the ballot! Nominations close November 18, 2026. Only two weeks left to nominate!
Nominations close November 18,2026
Shop local and support talented artists, independent businesses and the heart of the Sarasota community this holiday season at this art and gift showcase. Explore one-of-a-kind gifts, meet the artists, enjoy special signings and sip and savor while discovering something truly unique. Featured artists include Michelle Romine with Coastal Magpie Studios, Tia Kilduff with Stitch and Gather, Carolyn Nielubowicz with Created by Care and more. A portion of proceeds will be donated to the Payton Wright Foundation.
Morton's Market, 1924 S Osprey 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
Set sail with the smooth sounds of the '70s and '80s in this feel-good celebration of Yacht Rock and beyond. Featuring favorites like Sailing, Margaritaville, Brandy, Escape (The Piña Colada Song), Arthur's Theme and more, this breezy musical revue charts a course through the songs that became the soundtrack to romance, adventure, heartbreak and endless summer nights. Written by Richard Hopkins and Rebecca Hopkins; directed by Catherine Randazzo; music arrangements by Jim Prosser.
Court Cabaret, 1265 1st St., Sarasota
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
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
Delight in thrilling tournaments, delicious feasts and exciting games at the 22nd Annual Sarasota Medieval Fair. On Saturdays and Sundays, travel back in time to The Siege of Paris in 845 A.D. through plays and shows about the people who shaped this time period. Kids can participate in crafts, storytime and dress-up while adults embark on a pub crawl or attend the Masquerade of Mordred Pendragon. An artisan marketplace will showcase over 140 vendors. Act fast, because ticket sales end on June 24.
Mallaranny Farms, 29847 FL-70, Myakka City
Kick off the holidays with a merry celebration along N. Cattlemen Rd. that features giant balloons, fantastical floats, marching bands, dance troupes and a special appearance by the one-and-only Santa Claus. The excitement continues with thrilling FMX stunts by Nik Wallenda's Wonderland Circus, the lighting of UTC's 50-foot holiday tree, dazzling fireworks and an after-party concert. Visit the kids zone for games and crafts from 3-5pm, and pre-party entertainment begins at 4:15pm.
UTC District, N. Cattlemen Rd., Sarasota
This family-friendly event features local music, dance, theatre and arts groups performing all day. Kids can jump into hands-on art and theatre workshops for budding creatives of all ages, while food trucks keep everyone fueled. Bring the whole family and let your little ones discover what they love.
Civic Green, adjacent to the Sarasota Municipal Auditorium, 801 N Tamiami Trl, 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
In collaboration with local women-owned wellness business, Avida Luna Wellness invites guests to try something new, on their own or with a friend. Imagine three hours surrounded by nature, with intentional experiences to care for your body from the inside out. Tickets include IV hydration, yin yoga, a soothing sound bath, a take-home floral activity, light bites and a wellness beverage. The exact address of this event will be shared with registered attendees upon ticket purchase.
Visit Lefty's on November 19 to enjoy the freshest offerings from Florida's farmed shellfish. They will be shucking & grilling farmed clams and oysters harvested only hours before you enjoy! Taste specially curated wines to complement the feast and meet four local Florida shellfish growers who will teach you about their work and the future of sustainable Florida shellfish. Meet the local Oyster Boys Conservation, make a VOG (Vertical Oyster Garden) and learn how their work in our Bay is helping sustain the health of our precious coastal waters. And, enjoy a little live music, too! Visit the Eventbrite link to purchase tickets.
Lefty's Oyster and Seafood Bar, 428 N Lemon Ave., Sarasota
The Boys and Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties will host their annual Champions for Children Gala, beginning with a reception at 6pm, followed by a delicious 3-course gourmet dinner catered by Michael's on East. There will be live auctions and raffles, along with inspiring performances by Boys and Girls Club members. Black tie is optional. Proceeds will benefit Boys and Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties' award-winning slate of teen programs and provide transformational services to thousands of young individuals across Sarasota and DeSoto Counties.
The Ora, 578 McIntosh Rd., Sarasota
This walkathon and community celebration benefits the Sarasota community through grant funding, leadership development and volunteer projects. After the 4pm walk, a community celebration will kick off at 5:30pm with a DJ, food trucks, local businesses and wellness vendors. Continue the fun with an after par-tee at PopStroke UTC from 8-10pm.
Nathan Benderson Park, 5851 Nathan Benderson Cir, Sarasota
Celebrate creativity at the Wellen Park Fine Art Festival and explore an outdoor gallery featuring original work by artisans from Florida and across the county. View paintings, sculptures, jewelry, photography, glass, ceramics, fiber art, mixed media, woodworking and more. Meet the artisans, learn about their techniques and find one-of-a-kind pieces for your home, office or personal collection.
Downtown Wellen Great Lawn, 19745 Wellen Park Blvd, Venice
This family-friendly event benefits the Englewood Area Cancer Foundation and brings neighbors together on Thanksgiving morning for a meaningful start to the holiday. The Turkey Trot is a celebration of community and an opportunity to make a difference for our neighbors facing cancer. Check-in and registration begin at 6:30am.
Ann and Chuck Dever Regional Park, 6791 San Casa Dr., Englewood
This year's City of Venice Holiday Parade celebrates three milestones: the 50th anniversary of the parade, the City's 100th birthday and America's 250th birthday. Activities begin as early as 2pm in the downtown area. Enjoy a block party, Elf Dash Fun Run and many family activities. This year's holiday parade grand marshal is Old Betsy, who is also celebrating her 100th birthday.
West Venice Avenue and Park Boulevard, 401 W Venice Ave., Venice
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
Experience an unforgettable evening celebrating the limitless potential that emerges when children are surrounded by hope, expertise and unwavering support. The annual Wonder Gala shines a light on journeys of hope, turning generosity into possibility and helping every child discover their own moment of wonder. Enjoy a celebratory cocktail and an exceptional dining experience catered by Michael's on East, along with a silent and live auction. Allison Nash delivers heartfelt narratives and powerful vocals, and the evening culminates with dancing to music by The Soul Sensations.
The Ora, 578 McIntosh Rd., Sarasota
Gather the whole family for this unforgettable holiday celebration in downtown Wellen Park. Friday evening kicks off the festivities with a magical Christmas tree-lighting ceremony, a charming Christmas Market, ornament decorating, dazzling ice dancers, and live musical performances. Saturday brings even more holiday cheer with festive Dueling Pianos, a Glow Bike Ride, visits with Santa, and plenty of jolly fun.
Solis Hall, 19745 Wellen Park Blvd, Venice
A visit to Winter Wonderland in Downtown Bradenton is a magical experience that transforms historic Old Main Street into a festive destination filled with seasonal cheer and family-friendly fun. Guests can enjoy live holiday performances, shop for unique gifts from local vendors and savor a variety of food and seasonal treats. As snow falls from the sky, children can experience the magic of winter in Florida by racing down the snow slide and playing in a winter-inspired wonderland.
Historic Old Main Street, 12th St. W, Bradenton
Join Chabad of Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch for a Chanukah Celebration featuring world-renowned Israeli singer and entertainer Yoel Sharabi. Delight in live music, raffles, face painting, a latke bar, doughnut decorating, a dreidel moon bounce, falafel with Yoav, Kosher BBQ, Chanukah art and more.
Lakewood Ranch Main Street, 8100 Lakewood Main St., Lakewood Ranch
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
Experience unique holiday shopping for people who like one-of-a-kind arts and crafts. Atomic tote bags will be passed out by the local roller derby league, the Bradentucky Bombers, and will feature artwork created specifically for the show. Tickets to the main auditorium are only available for purchase at the Robarts Arena box office during show hours. Food trucks include Big Blue Grilled Cheese Company, Tra Di Noi Pizzeria and the Robarts Arena Cantina.
Robarts Arena, 3000 Ringling Blvd, Sarasota
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