DOWNTOWN. An innovative menu offers a variety of continental-American cuisine. The lunch menu includes such dishes as shrimp and crab bisque, panned grouper sandwiches, and handmade ravioli. The dinner menu is equally impressive and includes escargots bourguignon, roast duckling, grouper scaloppini royale, or filet mignon Parisienne. A wine list is available with a large selection of South African wines.

Patrons come from miles around to enjoy specialties such as Italian and Cajun frittatas and Florentine crepes with shrimp. Traditional favorites are also available. Reservations not accepted.

Thousands of palates have been pleased with the creative new European cuisine this dining establishment has been producing for over 25 years. From the New Zealand rack of lamb to the chicken and orecchiette pasta, all is satisfying. The dessert menu features both light and fruity selections and decadent chocolatey creations. Live music is provided during weeknights, and valet parking is available as well. Reservations recommended.

The flavors of Caribbean and New England classic entrées fill the air at this Sarasota seafood favorite. Coasters Seafood Company, located in the Sarasota Boat Yard Shopping Village, offers savory seafood cuisine in a casual brasserie-style setting. The menu features Maryland crab cakes, Caribbean lobster, and shrimp étouffée.

This restaurant offers Old World Spanish charm, and its patio seating is a great place to enjoy a cup of coffee. Located in St. Armbands Circle, the Columbia Restaurant has exceptional cuisine and delightful desserts. The menu offers sweets like flan and guava cheesecake as well as Café con Leche pie, a Cuban treat. Complement dessert with a drink favorite such as Spanish coffee, a concoction that mixes Spanish brandy, Kahlua, and whipped cream. Yum! Casual to dressy attire. Reservations recommended.