Best Southern American Restaurants in Sarasota

Price

$$
$$$
$$$$

Regions

Kansas City, KSSarasota / Bradenton

Neighborhoods

BradentonDowntownFruitville, FloridaGulf Gate EstatesLakewood RanchLongboat Key

Top Rated

CharmingFancyGood for business mealsGood for groupsGood for special occasionsGreat for brunch

Dining Options

All dining options

Delivery only

Takeout only

Seating Options

BarCounterStandardHigh TopOutdoor

Accessibility

Wheelchair access

52 restaurants available nearby

How are Featured results ranked

1. Indigenous

4.8

Exceptional(1064)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Sarasota

Booked 20 times today

Indigenous in Sarasota is a culinary gem renowned for its exceptional Contemporary American cuisine. With a focus on sustainable seafood and local sourcing, Chef Steve Phelps crafts dishes that not only delight the palate but also honor the planet. Praised in reviews as a "culinary masterpiece," this restaurant consistently exceeds expectations with its "creative, sustainable cuisine" and "innovative flavors." The ever-evolving menu keeps diners returning for more, each visit promising "exquisite meals" like the signature mushroom bisque. As a James Beard Foundation Semi-Finalist, Chef Phelps' dedication to quality and authenticity makes Indigenous a must-visit for those seeking an unforgettable dining experience.

2. Fork and Hen

new

4.5

Awesome(27)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Downtown

Booked 11 times today

Fork & Hen is a Sarasota gem where Southern soul food meets modern flair. This scratch kitchen features a vibrant atmosphere and expertly crafted dishes that will delight your palate. Savor favorites like The Hitman Burger, a juicy creation with American cheese and fancy sauce, or the Drop Biscuits Crab Rangoon, a tasty blend of creamy crab and crispy dough. For classic comfort, try their Chicken & Waffles, served with fluffy buttermilk waffles and maple lavender butter. Explore unique options like Mama's Shrimp Fried Rice, a savory twist on a Mexican classic, or the Deep Deep South Falafel for a delightful vegetarian treat. Fork & Hen's new location at the corner of Washington and Main in lively downtown Sarasota is the perfect spot to enjoy a meal with friends and family. With generous portions, friendly service, and a 4.8-star Yelp rating, it’s a must-try for anyone seeking an elevated Southern dining experience. Come experience the magic at Fork & Hen!

A photo of The Melting Pot - Sarasota restaurant

3. The Melting Pot - Sarasota

4.5

Awesome(1329)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Sarasota

Booked 27 times today

The Melting Pot in Sarasota elevates American cuisine to an art form with its unique fondue dining experience. Known for its "magnificent" four-course meals, the restaurant offers a delightful journey through classic American flavors, with a twist. Guests rave about the "delicious" Mac & Cheese fondue and the "amazing" Lavender/Blueberry White Chocolate fondue, highlighting the innovative yet comforting nature of its offerings. The restaurant's commitment to high-quality ingredients and exceptional service shines through in every dish, making it a perfect spot for creating "memorable moments" with family and friends. The atmosphere is lively yet intimate, ensuring a truly unforgettable dining experience.

A photo of The Rosemary & Thyme restaurant

4. The Rosemary & Thyme

4.8

Exceptional(4735)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Sarasota

Booked 40 times today

Welcome to Rosemary & Thyme! Downtown Sarasota American Bistro serving traditional and contemporary dishes with an emphasis on healthy options. Savor made-from-scratch selections for breakfast, lunch and dinner prepared with fresh ingredients from regional farms.

A photo of Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse - Sarasota restaurant

5. Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse - Sarasota

4.7

Exceptional(3001)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Sarasota

Booked 51 times today

Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse in Sarasota is a beacon of authentic American cuisine, celebrated for its exceptional aged USDA prime steaks. Nestled downtown, this award-winning restaurant offers a dining experience that’s both sophisticated and welcoming, making it the "top pick for intimate dinners and special occasions." Guests rave about the "superb food" and "impeccable service," ensuring each visit is memorable. The chef-inspired menu showcases the finest American flavors, with standout dishes like the "Tomahawk steak that melts in your mouth like butter." Whether enjoying the extensive wine list or the delightful seafood options, Hyde Park promises an unforgettable American dining adventure.

6. Arts & Central

4.7

Exceptional(608)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Sarasota

Booked 27 times today

In the heart of the Rosemary District, come discover a dining experience that’s at the crossroads where laid-back vibes meet gourmet delights.

A photo of Libby's - Sarasota restaurant

7. Libby's - Sarasota

4.6

Exceptional(4148)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Sarasota

Booked 45 times today

Open in Sarasota since May of 2019, the Libby's space is open, modern & minimalist. Delicious menu items, sophisticated wine and daily specials are at the core of all that we do! Cozy bar area, weekday happy hour specials, and a private dining room are some of the unique features at our Sarasota location.

A photo of Dry Dock Waterfront Grill restaurant

8. Dry Dock Waterfront Grill

4.8

Exceptional(9843)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Longboat Key

Booked 99 times today

Dry Dock Waterfront Grill is a shining beacon of authentic American cuisine on Longboat Key, offering a delightful dining experience with its "consistently good" food and "excellent service." Overlooking the stunning Sarasota Bay, this restaurant is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, praised for its "wonderful seafood" and "great menu selections." The ambiance is as captivating as the view, with many diners noting the "beautiful view while dining." Whether you're savoring their famous grouper or indulging in a lobster roll, the freshness and quality of each dish promise a true taste of American culinary excellence. "Hard to beat this restaurant," indeed!

9. Boca - Sarasota

4.3

Awesome(1686)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Sarasota

Booked 39 times today

With a cozy vibe, food you crave, and heartfelt hospitality, Boca is your kind of place - an everyday upscale restaurant where you can be yourself and enjoy great fresh seasonal creations while we work thoughtfully to make even the most simple moments extraordinary. With a fresh and seasonal approach to the classics, Boca is the food you love handcrafted with the freshest ingredients into dishes you will crave. Like the food, our Market Fresh cocktails are thoughtful, luscious, and handcrafted featuring house-infused spirits and fresh ingredients. Join us for Weekend Brunch and Bottomless Mimosas, Lunch on the Avenue or Dinner with friends that feel like family.

10. Marina Jack

4.4

Awesome(1692)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Sarasota

Booked 43 times today

Marina Jack in Sarasota offers an unparalleled American dining experience that captures the essence of quality and authenticity. With a menu that showcases the finest steaks, seafood, and pasta, each dish is crafted with attention to detail, making it a standout choice for American cuisine enthusiasts. The restaurant's breathtaking waterfront views complement the "outstanding" food and "impeccable" service, as diners consistently rave about their memorable visits. One guest described it as "the premier dining experience on Sarasota Bay," highlighting the harmonious blend of delicious flavors and stunning ambiance. Whether enjoying a casual meal or indulging in fine dining, Marina Jack promises a "superb experience" that keeps guests coming back.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

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