Wagner Realty
June
9
9
Sarasota's Best Seafood Spots: From Casual to Fine Dining
With nearly 8,500 miles of coastline, it's no surprise that Florida proudly holds the title of the "Fishing Capital of the World." From the Gulf waters to the Atlantic, seafood is woven into the fabric of daily life, especially here in Sarasota and Bradenton. Whether you're craving a casual dockside meal with your toes in the sand or a fine dining experience complete with fresh-caught delicacies and waterfront views, this region offers no shortage of culinary gems around Sarasota homes for sale and Bradenton homes for sale. Here are some of the spots favored by our real estate agents.
- Big Water Fish Market - 6639 Midnight Pass Rd., Siesta Key, FL 34242
Not to say that owner Scott Dolan is superstitious, but Big Water Fish Market opened for business at 11 a.m. on 11/11/11. The extensive selection of fresh seafood and casual, family-friendly vibe draws a steady stream of customers from both locals and visitors near Siesta Key homes for sale. SRQ Magazine recently recognized the restaurant's ceviche and po' boy in their "Best of 2025" issue, which also gave props to the onsite boutique-style seafood market. Hours are 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. daily except Friday and Saturday, when doors are open until 10 p.m. - The Old Salty Dog - 1601B Ken Thompson Pkwy., Sarasota, FL 34236
The Old Salty Dog is named after a classic term for sailors, but man's best friend also plays a significant role. Fido is welcome to join you on the deck to enjoy water and doggie treats while you dine on lobster rolls, salmon BLTs, and pub-style fish 'n' chips. The star of the show is the restaurant's signature creation, the Fully Loaded Salty Dog. Adam Richman of Man vs. Food devoured this crispy fried hot dog layered with sauerkraut, bacon, grilled onions, mushrooms, and four types of cheese. The Old Salty Dog is open seven days a week from 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. - Crab & Fin - 420 St. Armands Cir., Sarasota, FL 34236
You can't keep a good restaurant down, as Crab & Fin demonstrated with their triumphant post-hurricane return. In December 2024, Crab & Fin emerged bigger and better than ever after a full remodel. One thing that hasn't changed is their four-star cuisine, showcasing the freshest seafood from local, regional, and international waters. Choose from tasty dishes such as local mangrove snapper, Dutch Harbor Alaska snow and red crab, North Atlantic lobster tail, and European Dover sole. Several items have lower pricing during early-dining hours. Crab & Fin is open 11:30 a.m. - 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11:30 a.m. - 9:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday. - Owen's Fish Camp - 516 Burns Ct., Sarasota, FL 34236
Visit Owen's Fish Camp and head back in time to "old Florida living." Located in a historic downtown cottage, the restaurant is named for Owen Burns, a local entrepreneur and land developer who was largely responsible for the development of Sarasota. The majestic Banyan tree out front was a gift to Burns from Thomas Edison, and there's a nostalgic tree swing in the back. Start out with some of Murph's famous Bloody Mary oyster shooters before digging into some shrimp & grits, cornmeal-crusted catfish, or a Low Country boil for two. Dinner is served daily beginning at 4 p.m. - Ocean Prime - The Quay Sarasota, 501 Quay Commons, Sarasota, FL 34236
Planning a date night or celebrating a special occasion? The elegant ambiance and first-class service at Ocean Prime will make it truly an event to remember. Ocean Prime combines upscale seafood dishes, including sushi rolls and gold-dusted nigiri topped with caviar, with a classic steakhouse menu featuring filet mignon, New York strip, ribeye, and Wagyu beef. Ocean Prime is open from 4 p.m. - 9 p.m. daily, with extended hours until 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.
Life in Sarasota and Bradenton has something for everyone. Contact us to handle all your real estate needs.