Patch Picks: Valentine's Day Dining Options in Sarasota

George Bernard Shaw, the Irish playwright once said “There is no love sincerer than the love of food.”

Since food and love do go together, choosing a dining option for Valentine’s Day is an important decision. Depending upon the couple, many factors come into play when making such a decision. Some will choose a restaurant for Valentine’s Day dining based upon setting alone. Others will choose based upon the quality of the food. And yet others will pick based upon their favorites; food or place. Whatever factors influence your decision on where to dine; Sarasota has many options.

Here are samplings of romantic restaurants for you to consider when making Valentine’s dining plans:

Maison Blanche: Special opening for Valentine’s Day dining, offering a special 5 course prix-fixe menu $85/person; perhaps the finest food in the Sarasota area 
Contact info:  2605 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Long Boat Key, 941-383-8088       

: Holiday specials all weekend with a special 5 course prix-fixe menu for Valentines Day $XX/person
Contact info: 1377 Main Street Sarasota, 941-951-6272      

Pomona Bistro and Wine Bar: Offering their regular menu of small and large sized plates in a warm intimate setting
Contact info:  481 North Orange Avenue, Sarasota. 941-706-1677

: Offering their regular menu of sophisticated Latin fusion in an equally sophisticated setting.
Contact info: 1345 Main Street, Sarasota 941-362-4427

: Classic fine dining and service to match; offering special menu items for Valentine’s Day
Contact info: 1287 First Street, Sarasota, 941-366-8111

Ophelia’s on the Bay: Located on Siesta Key; waterfront and water view dining at it best; offering specials and regular menu; always fills up so book early
Contact info: 9105 Midnight Pass Road, Sarasota, 941-349-2212

: Offering an innovative menu with specials for Valentine’s Day weekend in a casually elegant setting
Contact info: 1917 South Osprey Avenue, Sarasota, 941-487-7300

: Family owned, classic Italian in a romantic and stylish setting
Contact info: 1766 Main Street, Sarasota, 941-330-9393 

Ray’s at the Serving Spoon: Weekends only; 4 course prix-fixe menu; some of the finest food in Sarasota served in a very casual and unique setting, BYOB
Contact info: 1825 South Osprey Avenue, Sarasota, 941-377-2486      

: Casually elegant, small intimate setting, classic European cuisine
Contact info: 1938 Adams Lane, Sarasota 941-366-0070  

Since Valentine’s Day falls on a Monday this year, many restaurants will be celebrating the event starting on Friday and ending on Monday. It should also be noted many restaurants are usually closed on Monday’s but will be open for Valentine’s Day. As always, we suggest calling ahead before finalizing your plans.

Enjoy! Eat! Love!