Even though we don't have freezing temperatures or snow, celebrating Christmas and New Year’s in Sarasota is still festive. The end-of-the-year holidays bring together family and friends, and of course, no celebration is complete without food and drink!
Since each holiday is a “celebration twofer;” Christmas Eve and Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, celebrating these special events requires some time and planning. After all, there is a significant amount of time to fill and many options.
A family walk along the beach, a Christmas Eve stroll down Main Street, a traditional family dinner at home or a holiday open house, Sarasota always celebrates in style. Even though many of us will be entertaining at home, there will certainly be time for dining out, as well. Here are some of the best holiday highlights, special meals and events from restaurants around town.
The Table Creekside: Open Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day, The Table will take you on a holiday culinary adventure with a wonderful waterfront setting. 5253 South Tamiami Trail / 921-9465
Libby’s Café & Bar: Libby’s annual Feast of Fishes returns, along with indulgent prime beef specials to complement its new winter menu of small and large plates, with prices from $3 to $38. 1917 South Osprey Ave. 487-7300
Louie's Modern: Putting a distinctly modern American twist on Christmas classics that honor the Feast of Fishes and other dining traditions, Louie's Modern hosts a Christmas Eve Celebration Dinner Tuesday, Dec. 24. 1289 North Palm Ave. 552-9688
Michael’s on East: The award-winning contemporary fine-dining restaurant is featuring a special holiday menu showcasing signature a-la-carte favorites. Reservations are currently being accepted for Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve. Enjoy Christmas Eve reservations between 5 and 8 p.m., or dine at the restaurant on Christmas Day with special seatings between 2 and 8 p.m. 1212 East Ave. S. 366-0007
Pattiegeorge’s: Coastal cuisine in a great setting. Pattiegeorge’s will be open from 5:30 to 9:00 p.m. on Christmas Eve and from 5 to 9 p.m. on Christmas Day. 4120 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. 383-5111
Ophelia’s on the Bay: One of the best spots for waterfront dining, Ophelia’s will be offering special menus for Christmas Eve 5 to 10 p.m., Christmas Day 4 to 8 p.m., and New Year’s Eve 5 to 11 p.m. 9105 Midnight Pass Road, Siesta Key. 349-2212
Bijou Café: Serving regular menu with special holiday items on Christmas Eve from 5 to 8 p.m. and on New Year’s Eve from 6 to 10 p.m. with complimentary champagne toast and party favors. 1287 First St. 366-811
Taste of Asia: Looking for a place to dine on Christmas Day? Taste of Asia will be open from noon to 9 p.m. 4413 South Tamiami Trail. 941-923-2742
Phillippi Creek Village Oyster Bar: Casual holiday dining, why not try “The Creek!” Open Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. 5253 South Tamiami Trail. 925-4444
Café Gabbiano:Open on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve for fine wines and Italian fare. 5104 Ocean Boulevard, Siesta Key. 349-1423
Yummy House: Open for lunch and dinner on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day Lunch 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Dinner from 5 to 9:30 p.m. 3232 North Tamiami Trail. 351-1688
Antoine’s Restaurant: Refined dining in an interestingly renovated dining space, Antoine’s will be offering holiday specials from Dec. 24 to 31. Open Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve. 5020 Fruitville Road. 377-2020
MéLange: Make your last meal of 2013 a great one. Ring in the new year with MéLange; offering two styles of dining that evening, chose from either a four-course prix fixe or a 10-course tasting menu. 1568 Main St. 953-7111
Dining in or dining out, no matter your choice, we wish you the Merriest Christmas and the very best for 2014!
