Diners' Choice: Lively restaurants in Sarasota / Bradenton

OpenTable

Updated January 05, 2025

Looking for restaurants that have the most vibrant bar scenes in Sarasota / Bradenton? You’re in the right place. Each month, OpenTable analyzes nearly 2 million global diner reviews from the past four months. We sort the results by location and category to help you discover new favorite restaurants. It's a great partnership: you reserve, eat, and review. We listen...and deliver the results for all to benefit. Enjoy!

Big Top Brewery

4.8

4.8 (82)

$30 and under

Gastro Pub

Fruitville, Florida

About the restaurant

When we started Big Top Brewing Company, there were no craft breweries in the Sarasota area and we set out to fix that. We wanted to compliment Sarasota’s historical associations with The Ringling Circus, performing arts, great architecture, the best art and design schools and world renown tourism.

The best way we could do that was to craft beer that our home town can be proud of. We plan to continue the tradition of the arts and help Sarasota add beer town to its identity. Come step under our big top and see for yourself. Big Top Brewing Company artistically crafts world class beers, inspired by our passion, integrity, and the history of our home town.

Top review

JillVIP

Dined 3 days ago

Fun evening with friends. Friendly and knowledgeable server. We had a great evening. Very fun atmosphere!

Motorworks Brewing

4.7

4.7 (234)

$30 and under

Brewery

Bradenton

About the restaurant

Built in 1923 as an automobile dealership, our 27,000 sq. ft. facility houses Motorworks Brewing’s full-production brewery and taproom, adjacent to a 22,000 sq. ft. beer garden - Florida’s largest. Our majestic 250-year-old living oak trees offer the canopy, enjoy fantastic eats, the top live music venue, 30 Award-Winning Beers brewed on-site/on-tap. Full Liquor and Wine Bar, and Cigar Humidor. Play cornhole outside, enjoy weekly Monday/ Wednesday Bingo $$ nights, Thursday Trivia night, Latin dancing on the last Friday monthly and monthly Yappy Hour Pet Extravaganza for our furry friends. Just blocks away from downtown Bradenton and the Riverwalk, Motorworks Brewing is dog-friendly and family-friendly. We host hundreds of events each year including weddings, rehearsal dinners, company functions, bridal showers, and any holiday party you can imagine. Events: 941-209-5913
For any event or those reserving a group larger than 20, kindly call our office at (941) 209-5913.

Top review

Tina

Dined on Nov 9, 2024

Motorworks is always a good place to go to listen to great live music. Who could ask for anything more? Sitting outside under the stars/trees and twinkle lights. The staff is always the highlight of my time at Motorworks.

Ruth's Chris Steak House - Lakewood Ranch

4.7

4.7 (778)

$31 to $50

Steakhouse

Lakewood Ranch

About the restaurant

Ruth's Chris Steak House in Lakewood Ranch serves the finest USDA Prime beef available, broiled at 1,800° and served on 500° plates, so your steak stays hot, juicy and delicious from first bite to last. Enjoy our New Orleans-inspired appetizers, USDA Prime steaks, fresh seafood, signature side dishes and homemade desserts. All this while you enjoy our warm, inviting atmosphere and Ruth’s Chris’ genuine hospitality. So, whether you’re a regular or have just been wondering what all the buzz is about, Ruth's Chris is the perfect excuse to enjoy the perfect night out. Dinner is served nightly, reservations are suggested, and private dining and offsite catering may be arranged.

Top review

GregoryVIP

Dined 1 day ago

Great food, great service, great ambience. A wonderful dining experience. Highly recommend.

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Experience

Valentine's Dinner

Rose & Ivy

4.6

4.6 (423)

$31 to $50

Sushi

Sarasota

About the restaurant

Rose & Ivy, located in the beautiful two-story, vine-covered historic I.R Burns and H.H. Bell Building right next to the Sarasota Opera House in the heart of Downtown Sarasota. Featuring eclectic Pan-Asian cuisine, with a focus on sushi, sizzling steak, exotic dim sum, a superb beverage program, plus a curated atmosphere like nothing in Sarasota.

The space is a multi-faceted property with large front and courtyard patios with lots of fans for Florida weather, interior dining room and upstairs piano bar. Explore with us from 3PM-12AM, Tuesday through Sunday!

Top review

Judy

Dined 1 day ago

It’s a nice neighborhood place to meet for an enjoyable dinner in a nice atmosphere

CUBA 1958 - Sarasota

4.6

4.6 (100)

$31 to $50

Cuban

Sarasota

About the restaurant

Infused with the legacy of a prestigious Cuban restaurant in New Jersey, a part of this family's culinary lineage, the new Cuban restaurant in Sarasota, Florida, promises to be a beacon of excellence and authenticity. Building on the reputation and expertise garnered from their successful establishment up north, this new venture aims to elevate the dining experience in Sarasota by offering a refined yet soulful menu that reflects the family's dedication to quality and tradition. From classic dishes that have graced the tables of their renowned Jersey restaurant to innovative creations that push the boundaries of Cuban cuisine, every bite tells a story of passion, expertise, and a commitment to culinary excellence that spans generations. This new restaurant is not just a place to eat; it's a destination where food becomes art and tradition meets innovation in a celebration of the vibrant flavors of Cuba.

Top review

Lynne

Dined 2 days ago

First time dining at Cuba, 1958. Ambience, food and service was great. Jose our server was very knowledgeable and attentive . Meals came out together. We were not rushed, and portions are generous.

Taverna Toscana

4.4

4.4 (46)

$30 and under

Italian

Bradenton

About the restaurant

In downtown Bradenton, Florida, Taverna Toscana is led by the renowned Chef Fabio Viviani, offering an unparalleled Tuscan Italian dining experience. Our steakhouse blends Tuscan charm with modern sophistication, presenting an exquisite menu that transports you to the heart of Italy. The warm ambiance and handcrafted decor complement the authentic Italian flavors and the finest steaks, curated by Chef Viviani, a celebrated figure known for his culinary prowess and appearances on Bravo's "Top Chef." This venture, in partnership with Bradenton's entrepreneur Steve Herrig, symbolizes a commitment to culinary excellence and the revitalization of downtown Bradenton. At Taverna Toscana, we celebrate the shared essence of Tuscany and Florida: warm sun, wonderful people, and a passion for fresh, sublime food. Our indoor/outdoor dining welcomes everyone-from families and foodies to CEOs and couples-with aged steaks, homemade pasta, and crafted drinks in an inviting atmosphere that draws inspiration from Italy itself. Taverna Toscana isn't just a dining destination; it's a bold statement of culinary delight, offering a slice of Italy in Florida's friendliest city. Join us to experience the joy of Italian dining, where every visit promises an indulgent journey of taste and authenticity.

Top review

Karen

Dined on Dec 26, 2024

short rib bolognese was the best ever, anywhere! filet w risotto also a winner. french onion soup was five star as well. overall a great experience.

element: steak. seafood. pasta.

4.3

4.3 (1980)

$31 to $50

Steak

Sarasota

About the restaurant

We encapsulate the best and most unique elements of world class dining. We feature pasture raised, hand-cut steaks grilled or seared to perfection, delicate, local seafood, house made pasta dishes with elegant hand crafted sauces and more.

Top review

DeborahVIP

Dined 3 days ago

Elements is one of my favorite restaurants. The food is always good, and the service is excellent. I always request to sit in the main dining room because it is quieter and a little more cozy than the other dining area.

Rocco's Tacos - Sarasota

4.3

4.3 (451)

$30 and under

Mexican

Lakewood Ranch

About the restaurant

Rocco's Tacos & Tequila Bar Sarasota serves a diverse menu of authentic Mexican food in a vibrant, casual atmosphere, for locals and tourists alike. Rocco's passion for bringing the best of Mexico's flavor AND fun to life is felt as soon as you walk in the door. Our attention to authentic, fresh Mexican flavors and ingredients can be tasted in all our dishes - enjoy fresh guacamole prepared table side, house made margaritas, and Rocco's uniquely inspired signature tacos. From lunch to late night, for dinner or take out, there is something special waiting for you every day of the week. Be sure to stop in for our daily Happy Hour specials and our famous weekend Bottomless Brunch.

Top review

Tracy

Dined on Jan 7, 2025

Our server Priscilla was lovely. She was patient and helpful and very knowledgeable of the menu. That always makes a dining experience so much better. We were celebrating My Sons 30th birthday and had a really nice time. The food was delicious, and very fresh, service was quick, but not rushed. Margaritas were great. Every entrée and appetizer was delicious. Presentation was nice. The only thing I would change was the Birria tacos served on that wood tray, the wood was really rough and splintered and the bathroom was a hot mess and sinks were clogged. Honestly, we had a great time. We ordered extra entrées to bring home. We will definitely be back very soon. 100% recommend

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Riviera Dunes Dockside

4.2

4.2 (945)

$30 and under

Contemporary American

Palmetto

About the restaurant

Beautiful award-winning waterfront restaurant at the Riviera Dunes Marina in Palmetto next to the convention center. Featuring fresh seafood and other creative dishes in a casual setting, often with live music. Varied menu, affordable and with something for everyone.

Indoor and outdoor seating available. Our large patio is on the water at the marina and offers views of beautiful boats and sunsets. In addition to our reservable area is our large outdoor bar space with 1st come, 1st serve seating.

Inside are two dining rooms, including our newly remodeled main dining room, another bar and a reservable "Captains Room" that seats 20 (Call for reservations on this)

We can accommodate groups of most sizes but please call for groups of 8 or more.

Top review

BonnieVIP

Dined 5 days ago

Great drinks and dinner. Our waitress, GG, was very friendly and spot on with our order. Food was served hot and exactly as we ordered.

Kona Grill - Sarasota

3.8

3.8 (1403)

$30 and under

Contemporary American

Sarasota

About the restaurant

Welcome to Kona Grill Sarasota at the Mall at University Town Center. Kona Grill is a classic American Grill with great steak and seafood - complemented by the best choice of sushi and margaritas at any grill in America. Kona Grill features a global menu of contemporary American favorites, award-winning sushi, and specialty craft cocktails in a polished, casual atmosphere. From brunch & lunch to dinner & happy hour, the restaurant offers a range of freshly prepared dishes from the grill, seasonal menu items and fan-favorite dishes across all dayparts. Kona Grill offers both indoor and outdoor patio dining at all its locations, $3, $6, $9 happy hour offered weekdays & NEW weekend brunch, guided by a passion for quality food and exceptional service.

Top review

PamVIP

Dined on Dec 23, 2024

Sushi was great with some unique rolls. Server was friendly and helpful. Drinks were good but a little slow coming from bar. 3 rolls and 2 drinks was $110 so a little bit pricey value wise but I guess expected in a mall setting. We would go back.

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Taste of Kona: 3-Course Prix Fixe Menu

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