One of the many benefits of staying in a luxury property with Florida Vacation Connection is the flexibility to enjoy home-cooked meals whenever you choose. But with an impressive variety of restaurants throughout the surrounding area—ranging from laid-back coastal cafés to elevated gourmet dining—you’ll also love discovering new favorites. No matter your palate, you’ll find flavors inspired by every corner of the world. While you’re sure to create your own list of must-visit spots, here are some of our iconic recommendations.
A century-old family restaurant known for timeless Spanish-Cuban cuisine, beautifully crafted dishes, and signature recipes like the tableside 1905 Salad. Enjoy Mediterranean-style indoor dining or a charming outdoor patio perfect for people-watching.
A lively island-style eatery serving Caribbean-inspired fare, tropical cocktails, and outdoor seating. Great for casual dining, live music, and an upbeat coastal vibe.
A refined Continental restaurant offering elegant dishes, exceptional service, and classic European charm — an excellent choice for special occasions.
A modern café offering Mediterranean-American cuisine, fresh flavors, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
A casual waterfront favorite with panoramic views and a menu full of beach-friendly classics. Convenient after a visit to Mote Aquarium.
A beloved fine-dining institution tucked into a charming cottage. Expect intimate ambiance, exceptional entrées, and an upstairs loft with cocktails, lighter bites, and a famous dessert room.
A Longboat staple offering gourmet coastal cuisine with international influences. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
A historic waterfront gem with string-lit outdoor dining, fresh seafood, cocktails, and beautiful bay views.
One of the area’s most popular waterfront restaurants, serving fresh seafood and classic coastal dishes with unbeatable views of Sarasota Bay.
Warm and welcoming, with creative lobster entrées, seafood specialties, and a relaxed, coastal feel.
Authentic Italian dining featuring handmade pastas, wood-fired pizza, and beautifully prepared classics.
A stylish coastal restaurant with modern mid-century design, fresh seafood, shareable plates, and exceptional waterfront views — perfect for sunset dining.
An upscale bayfront restaurant offering premium seafood, steaks, and a refined dining experience ideal for special occasions.
A polished yet relaxed restaurant offering coastal cuisine, fresh seafood, and open-air dining with beautiful bay views.
A beachfront icon known for toes-in-the-sand dining, fresh seafood, and unforgettable sunset views.
A versatile neighborhood favorite serving seafood, steaks, pasta, and gourmet pizzas in a warm, welcoming environment.
Casual island dining with hearty portions, fresh seafood, burgers, and a friendly, laid-back atmosphere.
A lively waterfront spot with fresh seafood, great cocktails, and live music, all overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway. Perfect for a relaxed lunch or vibrant island evening.
A charming coastal restaurant known for locally caught seafood sourced from Cortez fishing boats. Enjoy intimate dining indoors or gather in the outdoor “Trap Yard” for live music and a fun, casual atmosphere.
A waterfront restaurant overlooking the Manatee River, offering sushi, seafood, steaks, and craft cocktails with both indoor and outdoor seating.
Known for its craft pizza, rooftop bar, and self-serve beer wall — perfect for a relaxed evening with scenic views.
A lively downtown destination with elevated pub fare, creative cocktails, and open-air seating.
A chef-driven restaurant offering Mediterranean-American dishes, live music, and a large outdoor patio.
A vibrant waterfront restaurant offering fresh seafood, tropical cocktails, and live entertainment. Located in the historic Cortez Fishing Village, it blends island energy with Old-Florida charm — perfect for a laid-back meal with a view.
A rustic Old-Florida favorite serving fresh seafood, cold drinks, and live music — a great place to enjoy the local fishing community’s authentic character.
A true local classic offering fresh-off-the-boat seafood served picnic-style on the dock. A must for an authentic, no-frills coastal experience.
