10 Best New Sarasota Restaurants to Visit in 2025

Whether you’re a local foodie or planning an upcoming visit, this insider’s guide reveals the most anticipated restaurants to open in Sarasota, Florida in 2025, including Opal’s own Ringside restaurant at Cirque St. Armands Beachside.

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With four Opal Collection resorts in the Sarasota area with their own established and esteemed on-site restaurants, you could spend an entire year treating yourself to mouthwatering item after item on the menus at such places like Latitudes at The Resort at Longboat Key Club or Drift at the Lido Beach Resort. But then you might miss some of the best Sarasota restaurants that have just – or are preparing – to open their doors in 2025, including Opal’s own Ringside restaurant at Cirque St. Armands Beachside.

From sophisticated steakhouses and artisanal donut shops to Greek cuisine and fresh-off-the-boat seafood, these additions promise to join the ranks of the best new restaurants in Sarasota.

NEW RESTAURANTS IN SARASOTA OPEN NOW

1. Lefty’s Oyster & Seafood Bar

Adding to the seafood-focused restaurants Sarasota is known for, this new Rosemary District venture is reviving coastal traditions with a modern twist. Set in a renovated auto body shop that shares space with Mandeville Beer Garden, the rustic yet comfortable atmosphere features three big garage doors that open to a beautiful outside dining area. As for the menu, expect made-to-order dishes that showcase the best of local seafood – including Cedar Key clams and Gulf grouper – whereas oysters are sourced from all over as far north as Massachusetts.

428 N Lemon Ave
Sarasota, FL

2. Florence and the Spice Boys

Elevating the diverse landscape of Sarasota restaurants, this success story evolved from a beloved food truck to a brand-new brick-and-mortar establishment. Bringing Middle Eastern fusion street food to south Sarasota, the 2,500-square-foot restaurant delivers bold flavors and creative combinations in a visually stunning setting. The expanded menu features favorites from their food truck days – like turmeric fried chicken sandwich, chicken shawarma taco and vegan falafel pita taco – alongside new creations exclusive to the restaurant.

N Cattlemen Rd, Unit 90
Sarasota, FL

3. Duck Donuts

This beloved chain has brought their made-to-order donut experience to the area. Each donut is made fresh to order and customized to personal preferences, with favorites including their signature maple-iced donut topped with chopped bacon and salted caramel. The menu also features seasonal specialties and creative coffee drinks perfect for any time of day.

1580 Lakefront Dr, UNIT 102
Sarasota, FL

SARASOTA RESTAURANTS OPENING SPRING 2025

4. Ringside at Cirque St. Armands Beachside

Soon to be considered one of the most unique and exciting places to dine in Sarasota, this eye-catching dining experience debuts March 2025. As the premiere restaurant in the new Cirque St. Armands hotel – set on Lido Key – Ringside draws inspiration from Sarasota’s rich circus heritage, including billboard-size murals showcasing trapeze artists and five private dining booths that peek out from behind sumptuous velvet drapery. The setting meets its perfect match in the menu, serving up a delicate balancing act of bold flavors and Gulf seafood favorites – think char-grilled octopus, pan-seared Scottish salmon served over a bed of sweet potato and hazelnut hash, and dry-aged rib eye served with parmesan potato gratin and garlic-wild mushroom ragout. 

233 Benjamin Franklin Dr
Sarasota, FL

5. Allswell

Adding to the diverse collection of restaurants Sarasota, Florida boasts, this modern gastropub represents a fresh take on comfort food classics. The innovative menu features standout dishes like duck shepherd’s pie, bone-in beef rib with black garlic barbecue, and Dungeness crab queso. Opening in spring, Allswell aims to create a welcoming atmosphere where upscale comfort food meets craft beverages in a sophisticated yet approachable setting.

7500 Island Cove Terrace, Suite 102
Lakewood Ranch, FL

6. Sugar Champagne Bar

Among the most anticipated new Sarasota restaurants of 2025, this sophisticated champagne and piano lounge set to open in March represents a $4 million investment in downtown’s nightlife scene. Housed in a beautifully renovated pink building that honors Sarasota’s architectural heritage, Sugar pairs world-class caviar with artisanal desserts in an atmosphere of refined elegance. The carefully curated champagne list features prestigious vineyards, while masterfully crafted cocktails and top-shelf spirits round out the beverage program.

127 S Pineapple Ave
Sarasota, FL

7. 131 Main

This acclaimed establishment will be making its Lakewood Ranch debut in March, bringing its “all fresh, no freezers” philosophy to the area. In fact, 131 Main has built its reputation on wood-fire grilling, Premium Angus Beef, and daily fresh fish deliveries. The restaurant’s commitment to quality extends to its carefully curated wine list and craft cocktail program, promising a complete dining experience.

6608 University Pkwy
Lakewood Ranch, FL

BEST NEW RESTAURANTS IN SARASOTA OPENING SUMMER 2025

8. Warren

Poised to become one of the best restaurants in Sarasota in when it opens in late summer, Warren is an elevated dining experience focusing on Modern American cuisine. This high-end restaurant and whiskey bar will occupy two stunning floors overlooking Selby Five Points Park. With premium steaks butchered in-house and carefully curated seafood selections, Warren aims to redefine luxury dining in the heart of the city. The restaurant’s extensive whiskey collection and sophisticated atmosphere make it a perfect addition to downtown’s growing fine dining scene.

1400 Main St
Sarasota, FL

9. Blu Kouzina

Expanding its presence among top Sarasota restaurants, this beloved St. Armands Circle institution is now bringing its acclaimed Greek cuisine to the heart of the city. Known for authentic Mediterranean flavors and fresh ingredients, Blu Kouzina has earned its reputation as one of the region’s finest Greek restaurants. The new location will feature the same commitment to quality while offering an expanded menu and enhanced dining space in the beautiful blue hues of the Greek isles.

N Cattlemen Rd
Sarasota, FL

10. Carved Craft Sandwiches

Contributing to the casual dining scene, this chef-inspired gourmet shop elevates the humble sandwich to an art form. Using fresh, local ingredients and artisanal bread, Carved at Waterside Place at Lakewood Ranch creates memorable combinations that go beyond traditional sandwich offerings. The menu extends to house-made soups, creative salads, and seasonal bowls that showcase the chef’s innovative approach to casual dining.

1551 Lakefront Drive, Suite 100
Sarasota, FL