Sarasota’s dynamic community can celebrate the upcoming opening of Jack Dusty – Coastal Cuisine & Crafted Cocktails, an innovative modern seafood restaurant, lounge and marketplace set to open to the public in January 2013.

Who is Jack Dusty?  The restaurant’s name harkens back to nautical lore and was an 18^th century short-hand term for the naval store clerk.  “Jack” referred to the additional national flags flown at the bow of a ship and later became a general term for sailor (Cracker Jack).  “Dusty” comes from “Jack of the Dust” who was once the Purser’s steward working in the bread room, handling the flour.  The Jack Dusty, under the “Purser” was responsible for doling out the daily lot of rum, or “grog” to sailors on board ship.  In later years, the Jack Dusty was assigned the task of meticulously maintaining the inventory of the ship’s rum and food stores.  Today, Jack Dusty is a symbol of camaraderie and community; festively gathering together to enjoy a good meal and drink.

Destined to become a local’s gathering place with a buzzy dining room, bustling bar scene and convivial atmosphere, Jack Dusty will blend Sarasota’s vibrant cultural lifestyle with an inspiring ambiance reflective of sand and sky.  The new restaurant will embody the best of what the Sarasota community offers – the immense creativity and energy of the area, merged with the natural features and distinctive history of the city’s artistic diversity.

From design to menu, everything at Jack Dusty will appeal to the senses.  Sweeping views of the bay through panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows and an expansive terrace perfect for al fresco dining create a bright, open atmosphere with a welcoming feel reminiscent of a Sarasota beach house.  From the moment of entry, the visually stunning space draws guests in.  Reclaimed oak floors, varied levels of tabletops and striking creative elements such as a mural patterned after shifting sands and the sculptural installation of brass mesh, will add to the artistic vibe.

Patrons can seamlessly flow from the lounge to the marketplace to the dining room to satisfy their culinary desires.  Whether it be cocktails at the bar, gourmet goodies-to-go by day, wine flights by night, or a glorious sit-down dinner, the dynamic dining options abound, with style and substance, not pomp or formality.

The palate teasing menu at Jack Dusty will focus on a bounty of seafood classics, modern composed plates, sumptuous sides and a top-notch mixology program. Menu and cuisine to come.

Jack Dusty is located at The Ritz-Carlton Sarasota, on the beautiful and cultural Gulf-coast of Florida, 1111 Ritz-Carlton Drive. Telephone: (941) 309-2000; Jack Dusty is building a community conversation on Facebook at www.facebook.com/JackDustySarasota