Derek's Culinary CasualVery good cooking with a originalVery good cooking with a original menu
There were many choices that we would have loved to try. This speaks to a chef who is creative with wonderful combination of flavors.
The restaurant is attractive with an fabrics to absorb noise. They reportedly are changing locations but the owner/chef we would think will continue to be excellent.4/10/2013 12:00:00 AMOur experience was delightful.Our experience was delightful. We are sorry to hear that you will be leaving Sarasota.4/4/2013 12:00:00 AMWonderful Dining Experience!We have been wanting to visit Derek's for almost a year and just couldn't find the 'right' time. We had family in from VA. and decided to take them on Thursday evening before they headed home. It was one of the best meals we have had in a long time. The service was spot on and we tried a range of menu items. The soups were fantastic and the calamari was simply amazing. The dinner items we selected did not disappoint either. The only small complaint was the first wine we selected they didn't have..and then the one we did decide on...they only had one bottle. So we had to 'test' another...but everything we had was great! Will definitely make this restaurant our "go to" for special occasions and when family is in town!4/4/2013 12:00:00 AMGreat placeThe food and service were exceptional. The recommendations of the friendly server were spot on. I would definitely retur, however, I was tools that this restaurant is closing and moving to Bradenton in a couple of weeks. I will definitely try it there when business takes me thee.4/3/2013 12:00:00 AMWonderful last dinner with DerekDerek's is a culinary favorite of ours. We are so sad to see them close and relocate further away from us. The creativity is out of this world. We wish Derek much success in his next venture.3/30/2013 12:00:00 AMDerek'sDerek's has long been a favorite of mine. This visit was in response to learning the restaurant is closing soon.3/28/2013 12:00:00 AMAmazing..Derek's Culinary & Casual is one of those places that foodies love. Derek is a master at deconstructing classic dishes and rebalancing them with the new interest and highest levels of quality and respect for his impeccable selection of ingredients. Sadly, he's closing the doors and moving another 40 minutes up the road... do yourself a favor and get in to see him before he leaves in a couple weeks.3/28/2013 12:00:00 AMWe came in very late at aWe came in very late at a time when most restaurants would want to lock the doors and/or convey their dismay by providing very poor service with a negative attitude. We had an outstanding experience and great food, as usual.3/27/2013 12:00:00 AMGreat food, ask for the big roomOur meals were really outstanding--I had the soft-shell crab special and others had scallops simple grill and the free range chicken. Presentation was lovely. My only criticism is the divide between the small outer room by the door and the larger convivial room. It was a crowded evening, and our reservation was made only two days before, which was probably why we were seated in the smaller room. A plus is that if you're facing the right direction (I wasn't) you can see the chefs in the kitchen. But otherwise, if in that room, you have a feeling of being out of the mainstream. So book in advance and ask for the big room!3/23/2013 12:00:00 AMThis restaurant impressesThis restaurant impresses from the moment one enters. The young women maitre d' welcomes guests with a sincere and friendly manner. The decor is distinctive. i would call it "old Florida," though I suspect that there is a better description for it as it is not kitschy and combines more modern elements. The food was outstanding- maybe the best in Sarasota. the wine was reasonable as was the complete tab.3/22/2013 12:00:00 AMDinner at Derek'sThree excellent outstanding meals however one meal was not good this time. In the past, the crispy duck had been excellent, but this time the duck was not half a duck but two leg and thigh pieces that were dry and just not up to par. Had a bottle of wine that was an excellent value and was great with our dinners. Service by our wait staff, Bryon, was exceptional. Don't forget to get a reservation as this is the season that it seems everyone is in town from "up north".3/20/2013 12:00:00 AMMy husband and I ate thereMy husband and I ate there on Saturday night. With reservation we were taken right away.From start to finish our experience was unbelievable. Our waiter (I think his name is Dan) was wondeful, full of life, knew about all the foods and you could tell he loved his job. From Short Ribs to Scallops, from Banana Pudding to Carrot Cake you won't be disappointed. We come to Sarasota once a year for a month. I have written this one in my "Notes" to be sure we return next year. Don't miss this one!!!3/16/2013 12:00:00 AMWe enjoyed good service, hadWe enjoyed good service, had wonderful and delectable meals, and two of our desserts were gratis for the two birthday men. So, the overall experience turned out to be very good. The food was terrific and memorable. It's a lovely restaurant for a special occasion.
Lynne3/16/2013 12:00:00 AMGreat food and service, feelGreat food and service, feel that prices are a little high3/14/2013 12:00:00 AMFood and parking too!You can try any menu item - they are all great! And, parking is easy and free!3/13/2013 12:00:00 AMThis restaurant was superbThis restaurant was superb and the service was truly professional. We were very impressed and will definitely be back again when we return to Sarasota. Their customer service is excellent; I received a prompt reply to the email I sent through their website.3/6/2013 12:00:00 AMDerek is the best on the westDerek is the best on the west coast of Florida. Best food in Florida. A can't miss.12/28/2012 12:00:00 AM