Moving on up: Rumor has it Michael’s On East (1212 East Ave. S., 366-0007) is going to take over the space formally occupied by Sassy’s Hair Salon and plans to transform it into an additional Michael’s Wine Cellar/Michael’s On East private dining room that will accommodate about 100 people.

Bang for your buck: If you love grabbing a fresh lunch from Morton’s Gourmet Market (1924 S. Osprey Ave., 955-9856), you are not alone, because the crowds tend to take over about noon. However, on a recent trip for lunch, we skipped the line at the salad bar and were beckoned by the piping-hot pizza bar. A large slice of pizza, paired with a bottle of water, proved to be affordable (under $5!) and a hearty lunch option.

Fixating on the fixtures: While dining at neighborhood restaurant The Lazy Lobster (7602 N. Lockwood Ridge Road, 351-5515), the conversation centered on the bar. But this is no ordinary bar — it’s an aquarium bar. That’s right, you eat on top of swimming fish, which is quite amusing — even for the adults. So, next time you have to wait for a table (because this place is always packed), just have a seat at the bar and you’ll have front-row seats for all the action. And business is so busy at Lazy Lobster’s Longboat Key location (5350 Gulf of Mexico Drive, 383-0440), reservations are recommended at least five days in advance.

dish of the week … goes to Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse’s (2001 Siesta Drive, 358-9463) lobster dynamite bites ($13.95). Wow, these little bites are fantastic — sweet and spicy in every bite. Chef Charles Flint created this dish, which offers plenty to share and is only featured at the Sarasota location. It’s also a great dish to be “in the know” about, because it is not on the menu, but is a nightly special — “special” is right.

Contact Stephanie Hannum at shannum@yourobserver.com.

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