A Local’s Guide to “What’s New” for 2022 in Sarasota, Florida

October 4, 2022 | Read Time: 3 minutes

Located in the heart of Florida’s renowned Cultural Coast, residents and visitors alike cherish Downtown Sarasota’s vibrant cosmopolitan lifestyle. This world-class destination located south of Tampa on Florida’s west coast is well known for its waterfront downtown filled with an exceptional array of cultural arts, unique designer boutique shopping, and a wide variety of Zagat-rated dining venues. As Sarasota’s popularity grows, so do the opportunities for entertainment and enjoyment throughout the region. Here is a local’s guide to the newest hotspots waiting to be discovered.

Best New Sarasota Restaurants

Boasting the most restaurants per capita for a city of its size, Sarasota’s five-star dining venues exceed expectations with tantalizing menus. New restaurants are joining the culinary scene daily. Meliora is a favored choice for New American cuisine, with a Chef’s Counter that allows guests to watch the artisans in the kitchen preparing a memorable meal Kojois an elegant and modern space, where a premium sake collection and a menu that encompasses flavors from Japan, China, Korea, and a dash of Italy have attracted the most discerning diners. The newly reinvented Stiks is perfect for a fast-casual dinner, focused on terrific Laotian, Thai, and Vietnamese dishes. At the end of the night, Vampire Penguin’s provides mounds of soft shaved ice, with flavors ranging from traditional chocolate and vanilla to creative specialties like Tajin and Thai Tea, covered in decadent syrups and sweet toppings for a unique alternative to the usual ice cream dessert.

Best New Arts and Culture Venues

Along with the staple favorites of Ringling Museum, Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, and the Sarasota Opera House, Sarasota is also home to smaller, more local galleries that create an extraordinary art scene. Streets of Paradise’s new Love, Art, Repeat Gallery invites all genres and levels of creativity through workshops and exhibitions. Located in the vibrant Rosemary District, it’s also an extension of the nonprofit’s mission to end homelessness. The Crossings at Siesta Mall is also home to two exciting new art venues. Arts Advocates, a long-time collector and exhibitor of works by Sarasota creatives, has found a permanent home here where docent-guided tours enlighten visitors on Sarasota’s dynamic arts scene. The mall is also now a temporary theatrical space for the long-running Players Centre for the Performing Arts, a community-led theatre dedicated to delivering quality productions and keeping the community engaged with the arts.

Best New Sarasota Events

Sarasota has also developed a thriving culture scene, with vibrant outdoor concerts and festivals that bring excitement and entertainment to the downtown region. Taking place on the first Friday of every month, Fresh Fridays travels around Sarasota to feature the very best of the city’s diverse music, food, and cultural venues. Each month’s block party will be held in a different section of town, with a new theme, food tastings from area restaurants, live music, and more. The Bay Park, which recently opened along the shores of Sarasota Bay, will also play host to ample events throughout the year. The 57-acre park is set to become a gathering spot for the entire Sarasota community, with fitness classes, live music entertainment, farmer’s markets, kayaking excursions, and much more.

Content Courtesy of One Park.