New pizza restaurant coming to South Tamiami Trail

Sarasota is getting a slice of the Mellow Mushroom pie in 2018.

Set to open in February or March of 2018, franchise owner Karen Atwood is in the process of renovating a space at 6727 S. Tamiami Trail. The former Beckham’s restaurant is getting “a complete gut and extension” and will be about 5,000 square feet after construction.

Atwood chose the South Tamiami area for its proximity to high-traffic spots like Siesta Key and Stickney Point Road, and she liked that it’s a free-standing building. Though she looked at a few locations closer to the downtown area, this one stood out.

She describes the Atlanta-based restaurant as “craft pizza and craft beer,” which Atwood said provides a unique offering to Sarasota’s market. The brand boasts “hand tossed, stone-baked classic southern pizza,” fresh ingredients and craft beer and cocktails. Atwood promises the restaurant will also bring "great specials and some local tastes."

Mellow Mushroom is known for its family-friendly, art-filled spaces. Atwood said she's eager to put a Sarasota spin on her franchise.

“Each franchise owner is able to drive the design intent,” she said. “We chose to go with a nod to 1960s Sarasota — we’re bringing in a lot of architecture, going with the mid-century modern theme. A little less tie-dyed and a little more minimal.”

She and her husband recently moved from the Atlanta area, where they were introduced to Mellow Mushroom during their time in college.

“We just really enjoy the brand, enjoy the food and the overall concept,” Atwood said. “We’re just really excited to be a part of the Sarasota restaurant community and the growth of the area.”

This will be the first Mellow Mushroom on Florida’s west coast south of Tampa.