Don’t Make Dinner, Make a Reservation -- Savor Sarasota!

[Amy Warren, LMHC / WQ Mag Columnist]

The beginning of June may mean summer vacations to some people. For me, it means the beginning of a two-week celebration of some of the wonderful restaurants at our fingertips. From June 1^st to June 14^th, it’s Savor Sarasota! And once you know about it, I’m sure you’ll want to join the celebration because over thirty restaurants will be offering three-course dinners for only $25 and two and three-course lunches for only $15. The list of participating restaurants includes some of Sarasota’s finest like Michael’s on East, Mozaic, Euphemia Haye, Bijou Cafe and Ophelia’s-- just to name a few. At the culinary preview, offerings like Fleming’s Lemon Glazed Gulf Shrimp with Orzo Salad and Libby’s Citizen Park Cheesesteak Eggroll left me counting the days until I could savor the tastes again.

Did you know that there are more Zagat top-scoring restaurants within a 20-mile radius of downtown Sarasota than anywhere else in Florida, most of which are independently owned? Well, it’s time to savor the fruits of these restaurants for a price you won’t normally find. In this economy, it’s a grand opportunity to dine on a budget and still devour some of the best food around town.

This week, I sadly mourn the closing of Main Street Oyster Bar (formerly Zoria) and Urban Reef. Both restaurants offered good food and service, yet failed to survive this economy. My love affair with Zoria which became Main Street Oyster Bar lasted their lifetimes. I’m not sure going to the Hollywood 20 will ever be the same without being welcomed by the smiling faces of Arthur and Thomas as I popped in their restaurant on the way home to dine. The loss to our community is truly a great one.

Make sure you get out and support our local restaurants so that other losses don’t follow. These next two weeks are the perfect opportunity to begin with the great deals being offered. Visit www.savorsarasota.com to check out the participating restaurants and to learn how you can win a week-end getaway at the Colony Beach and Tennis Club by writing a restaurant review. Some participating restaurants are also listing their menus for Savor Sarasota on the website. Just don’t forget, ‘tis truly the season to dine!