Whitney's restaurant plans expansion

Whitney’s, a restaurant and bar on the northern tip of Longboat Key, may get an ambitious expansion, according to an application received by the town’s Planning and Zoning Department.

A zoning map amendment application details the restaurant owners’ plans for the space next door, which include demolishing the former office building at 6960 Gulf of Mexico Drive to expand the restaurant’s outdoor seating. A rendering in the application shows an outdoor deck with lush landscaping surrounding the seating area, which is partially covered by a slatted canopy structure.

The application states the expansion will allow the restaurant to accommodate 200 diners.

The plan also includes 1,370 square feet of new construction that will include a commissary kitchen, storage and cooler space and restrooms.

The glass office building purchased by Whitney LBK LLC for $1.2 million last October will be demolished if the plans are approved.

Town approval is needed as rezoning and a comprehensive plan amendment is necessary, said Planning, Zoning and Building Director Allen Parsons. The Planning and Zoning Board will consider the requested comprehensive plan amendment and rezoning request at their Sept. 15 meeting.

The zoning amendment application points to the success the owners had in the restaurant’s original development, which repurposed an old Chevron gas station to create Whitney’s Restaurant.

“The redevelopment of that former gas station transformed a blighted and underutilized parcel into a vibrant hospitality destination that contributes positively to the character and economy of the surrounding community,” the application states. “The success of Whitney’s demonstrates how thoughtful redevelopment can revitalize aging properties while maintaining the relaxed and informal character of the Village area of Longboat Key.”