- June 12, 2025
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Growing up, my house had a killer soundtrack. Thanks to my parents, The Rolling Stones, Fleetwood Mac and Elton John were basically honorary family members. While other kids were glued to their televisions, I was busy perfecting the art of the solo dance party. No TV in my room? No problem. I had a boom box, a stack of CDs and a deep-rooted belief that music was way cooler than movies — and honestly, I still stand by it.
Even during my "I'm too cool for family time" era, you’d find me holed up in my room, cranking up whatever teen pop album had just dropped (at a noise level that definitely pissed off my parents), totally immersed in lyrics, beats and daydreams as I danced in the mirror with my brush as my microphone.
By the time I hit college, my parents were convinced I was born a few decades too late. I came home at 18 rocking vintage band and Bob Marley tees, swapping Top 40 for The Doors deep cuts and falling harder for The Beatles than ever before. Let’s just say my playlists have always had more soul than any streaming show could ever deliver.
My obsession grew grand: gathering Beatles artwork from around the world, burning a hole in my "Across the Universe" DVD and when my parents told me they were in New York City when John Lennon died on Dec. 8, 1980 — I knew I had to go to the holy ground: Strawberry Fields.
This was a roundabout way of introducing you to National Strawberry Day, but alas, we're here and it's strawberry fields forever, foodies.
2480 Stickney Point Road, Sarasota; 941-923-8640; 8211 Tourist Center Drive, Bradenton; 941-358-8182; CROPJuice.com
Berry Much in Love: CROP has special donuts weekly, and two that have popped up recently are sweet with strawberries. The Pink Velvet ($8) is a coconut-vanilla based donut dream, loaded with fresh organic strawberries and bananas, dipped in vibrant pitaya glaze and drizzled with creamy cashew butter. You'll see that the lemon was worth the squeeze with the lemon strawberry ($7) donut, compiled of a lemon donut dumped in fresh organic strawberry glaze topped with dye-free sprinkles.
Let Me Take You Down Cause I'm Going To: Start your morning with a juicy burst of sunshine:The strawberry blonde ($13) blends organic strawberry, green apple, pineapple and lemon into one sweet-tart, sip-worthy sensation.
4832 S. Tamiami Trail, 941-706-4225; 7246 55th Ave. E., Bradenton; 941-201-6002; 8491 Cooper Creek Blvd., Bradenton, 941-210-4760; 411 N. Orange Ave., Sarasota; 941-364-8767; TheBreakfastCompanyFL.com
Berry Much in Love: Calling all brunch lovers — this one’s toast-ally irresistible. For $14.95, dive into thick, fluffy French toast topped with a mountain of fresh strawberries and a rich Nutella drizzle that hits all the right notes. It’s sweet, satisfying and 100% worth every calorie. I warn you now that this dish causes a happy foodie dance once one bite has been had.
Let Me Take You Down Cause I'm Going To: Sip on the strawberry lemon sangria ($9.95) with sweet strawberries, zesty lemon and a splash of wine that comes together for the ultimate spring-turned-summer sipper. One glass in and you’ll feel like you're cruising in a little yellow submarine full of good vibes only.
1359 Main St., Sarasota; 941-330-2220; OfKorsBakery.com
Berry Much in Love: The pavlova ($5.99) and mini pavlova ($3.49) are standout treats that blend delicate texture with natural sweetness. This classic dessert features a crisp meringue shell with a soft, marshmallow-like center, topped with fresh strawberries and light cream. Baked fresh daily using organic, locally sourced ingredients, these airy confections reflect the bakery’s European roots and dedication to quality.
Let Me Take You Down Cause I'm Going To: Fruit tarte ($5.49) lane, full of vibrant celebration of fresh flavor that could fool any foodie into thinking that we're not in Sarasota — we're in Paris. Featuring a buttery, crisp pastry shell filled with smooth pastry cream and topped with ripe, juicy strawberries and other fruits, this European-style dessert is as beautiful as it is delicious.
1924 S. Osprey Ave., Sarasota; 941-955-9856; MortonsMarket.com
Berry Much in Love: Dive into flavor town with the strawberry balsamic walnut baked brie — the ultimate crowd-pleaser for summer soirées and sunny-day gatherings ($85). This 2-lb. wheel of brie is adorned with luscious Plant City strawberries, tart raspberries and a drizzle of rich balsamic glaze. Caramelized walnuts add a delightful crunch, while a hint of fresh basil elevates the dish to gourmet heights.
Let Me Take You Down Cause I'm Going To: Strawberry (fields) salad is a vibrant blend of fresh, seasonal flavor with a gourmet edge. Juicy strawberries and crisp field greens are elevated by a bold crumble of blue cheese (controversial to some, essential to others especially when it comes to a martini). Perfect for brunch spreads, al fresco picnics or even an elevated desk lunch. Catering available: $55 for a small, $105 for a large, because great flavor deserves to be shared.
3303 Bahia Vista St., Sarasota; 941-225-3994; ScoopsandSprinkles.com
Berry Much in Love: The strawberries and cream ice cream is a delightful treat that captures the essence of summer as a kid — no matter what your age is. Crafted with real strawberries blended into creamy strawberry ice cream, this flavor offers a refreshing and indulgent experience. Served from their charming ice cream trailer, this treat is the perfect way to savor the season's flavors. Whether you're enjoying it in a freshly made waffle cone or a classic bowl, this berry break is sure to bring a smile to your face.
Let Me Take You Down Cause I'm Going To: Dairy-free darlings, don't fret! Scoops & Sprinkles is serving up their Strawberry (dairy-free) creation, and it’s every bit as dreamy as the original. This plant-based scoop is light, luscious and totally lactose-free. It’s a celebration of summer fruit without the dairy fuss, perfect for those who want all the flavor and none of the compromise.
