Best Casual Restaurants in Sarasota

We love Bavaro's. This is our 2nd visit in the span of a year, and it didn't disappoint. The upstairs space is very original- in the best way. Our server Steven, who we also had the pleasure of meeting last year, was again, excellent. Very personable and hard-working. And we are still amazed that he can carry a full-to-the-top cocktail up a flight of 20 stairs (taking them 2 steps at a time, very quickly!) without spilling a single drop. Speaking of cocktails, we enjoyed a Manhattan and an Espresso Martini- both were great. The meatball appetizer was so good - I could have made a meal of it. We also enjoyed Penne in Vodka Sauce and a pasta Bolognese. The portions were quite large so we brought some home so we could leave room for dessert. Husband ordered 3 cannoli which ended up being full-size - had to bring 2 of them home as well. All in all, great experience and food and we'll be back again.

GREAT lunch for 5 men inside, which we almost had to ourselves. Quality and quantities were wonderful as were the options. Delicious burgers came with fantastic fries - could not have been better. Greek salad was perfect. Server was very attentive, friendly, and helpful. Have been many times for dinner, but this was the first for lunch. Same menu, but had not ordered lunch-type foods before.

Excellent food and wonderful ambiance Fun and innovative specials every day and regular menu is awesome too. Julie is a terrific waitress - responsive and always smiling!

We all ordered off the prix fixed menu, which was wonderful and reasonable given the food and presentation

The menu here includes a lot of variety and changes with some frequency. Food is interesting and tasty. Service is usually very good.