• Alternate Text

  • Loading

  • Holiday Gift Guide
  • Health Observed
  • Crossword
  • Contests
  • Newsletters
  • e-Newspaper App
  • Longboat
    • News
    • Cops Corner
    • Real Estate
    • Business
    • Neighbors
    • Opinion
  • East County
    • News
    • Real Estate
    • Business
    • Neighbors
    • Schools
    • Sports
    • Opinion
  • Sarasota
    • News
    • Cops Corner
    • Real Estate
    • Business
    • Neighbors
    • Schools
    • Sports
    • Opinion
    • Siesta Key
  • Arts + Entertainment
    • Eat + Drink
    • Arts + Culture
    • Reviews
    • Things To Do
    • Black Tie
    • Spotlight Partners
  • LWR Life
  • Galleries
  • More
    • Hurricane Season
    • Red Tide Map
    • Health Observed
    • Sand Bucket List
    • Calendar
    • Celebrations
    • Contests
    • Tributes
    • Submit a Celebration
    • Submit a Tribute
    • Public Notices
    • Classifieds
  • Longboat
    • Longboat
    • News
    • Cops Corner
    • Real Estate
    • Business
    • Neighbors
    • Opinion
  • East County
    • East County
    • News
    • Real Estate
    • Business
    • Neighbors
    • Schools
    • Sports
    • Opinion
  • Sarasota
    • Sarasota
    • News
    • Cops Corner
    • Real Estate
    • Business
    • Neighbors
    • Schools
    • Sports
    • Opinion
    • Siesta Key
  • Arts + Entertainment
    • Arts + Entertainment
    • Eat + Drink
    • Arts + Culture
    • Reviews
    • Things To Do
    • Black Tie
    • Spotlight Partners
  • LWR Life
  • Galleries
  • More
    • More
    • Hurricane Season
    • Red Tide Map
    • Health Observed
    • Sand Bucket List
    • Calendar
    • Celebrations
    • Contests
    • Tributes
    • Submit a Celebration
    • Submit a Tribute
    • Public Notices
    • Classifieds
  • Holiday Gift Guide
  • Health Observed
  • Crossword
  • Contests
  • Newsletters
  • e-Newspaper App

Sarasota | Business

Dan Sidler is the Greater Sarasota Chamber’s vice president of CareerEdge and economic development.
    By
  • Observer Staff
  • July 17, 2023
CareerEdge receives $125,000 grant from Gulf Coast Community Foundation

The workforce development program, led by the Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce, will use the funds to support workforce development initiatives.

  • Sarasota
  • News
David Sessions, left, and Anand Pallegar have been elected chair and vice chair of the Gulf Coast Community Foundation.
    By
  • Observer Staff
  • July 16, 2023
Gulf Coast Community Foundation elects leaders for 2024

The GCCF board named David Sessions chair and Anand Pallegar vice chair along with three new board members.

  • Sarasota
  • Business
Tyler Fite pours a red, white and blue daiquiri at the Siesta Key Daiquiri Deck.
    By
  • Observer Staff
  • July 12, 2023
Daiquiri Deck giving away free daiquiris for a year

To celebrate National Daiquiri Day, each of the five restaurant locations will award one lucky winner free daiquiris for the year.

  • Arts + Entertainment
  • Eat + Drink
A rendering of the new welcome center at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens downtown campus.
    By
  • Observer Staff
  • July 11, 2023
Selby Gardens elects new leadership for 2024

The board of trustees also named one new member and reelected seven others to three-year terms.

  • Sarasota
  • Business
Jennifer Arevalo tries out a new dress with assistance from Erika Alarcon.
    By
  • Ian Swaby
  • July 11, 2023
Barbie's Boutique began with a dream, grew into a one-stop shop for all

Founded to serve the local Latino community, the Sarasota boutique has expanded its clientele and recently opened an additional location.

  • Sarasota
  • Business
The renovations at Melting Pot Sarasota included new fabrics, carpet, paint, artwork, lighting and exterior signage.
    By
  • Amanda Postma
  • July 3, 2023
Fondue chain one-third of the way through $30 million renovation

The Melting Pot Sarasota wrapped its renovation around a new focus on the bar area.

  • Sarasota
  • Business
Dan Sidler is the Greater Sarasota Chamber’s vice president of CareerEdge and economic development.
    By
  • Observer Staff
  • July 1, 2023
Nine local companies win CareerEdge grants

The Greater Sarasota Chamber program awarded $205,000 to help advance careers of current employees.

  • Sarasota
  • Business
A rendering of the second-floor outdoor seating area at the planned Ocean Prime in The Quay.
    By
  • Andrew Warfield
  • June 30, 2023
Ocean Prime's upscale dining will be alongside retail, condos at The Quay

High-end seafood and steak restaurant Ocean Prime will feature marina views and two levels of dining at the Sarasota development.

  • Arts + Entertainment
  • Eat + Drink
John O'Keefe, brand ambassador Julianne Gentile, and Debbie O'Keefe
    By
  • Ian Swaby
  • June 28, 2023
Sarasota boaters create watercraft management app

The YachtWave app is intended to be a one-stop shop for all needs related to boat care, maintenance and use.

  • Sarasota
  • Neighbors
Take Care Home Health is run by Sue Wise and two of her daughters Erika Wise Borland and Courtney Wise Snyder.
    By
  • Lauren Tronstad
  • June 27, 2023
Home health care agency continues 28 years of growth, success

Sarasota-based Take Care Home Health started with one office and four employees. It has grown into a multimillion-dollar business with multiple locations and nearly 400 employees.

  • Sarasota
  • Business
Ocean Prime plans to build a two-story, 9,500-square-foot restaurant on Block 10 in The Quay.
    By
  • Andrew Warfield
  • June 27, 2023
Seafood, steak restaurant coming to The Quay

The centerpiece restaurant in The Quay is planned to open in late 2024.

  • Arts + Entertainment
  • Eat + Drink
Workforce Development & Innovation award with PGT Innovation staff Rob Moulds, Debbie LaPinska, Lakewood Ranch Medical Center chief operating officer Diego Perilla, and PGT Innovation staff Jeff Jackson, Don Vichitvongsa, and Stephanie Cz.
    By
  • Ian Swaby
  • June 25, 2023
2023 Small Business Awards reveal a caring community

The Sarasota Chamber of Commerce's awards highlighted area businesses that are positioned for continued success and have provided opportunities for the community.

  • Sarasota
  • Business
Erin Silk was officially named president and CEO on June 15.
    By
  • Andrew Warfield
  • June 15, 2023
EDC of Sarasota County names new president and CEO

Erin Silk has been promoted by the Economic Development Corp. board to replace Lisa Krouse, who is retiring.

  • Sarasota
  • News
Les and Pam McCurdy opened their first Sarasota comedy club in 1988, the year after they got married.
    By
  • Monica Roman Gagnier
  • June 14, 2023
McCurdy's celebrates 35 years of comedy in Sarasota

Les and Pam McCurdy share their secrets for mixing business with pleasure.

  • Arts + Culture
Beso is expected to open June 10.
    By
  • Amanda Postma
  • June 4, 2023
Tapas restaurant to open in downtown Sarasota

The new concept is run by the same people who own State Street Eating House + Cocktails.

  • Arts + Entertainment
  • Eat + Drink
After being selected a nominee for the category, Der Dutchman Restaurant in Sarasota was voted on by USA Today readers.
    By
  • Amanda Postma
  • June 2, 2023
Der Dutchman crowned best buffet in the US

The restaurant has been in the Sarasota area since 1985.

  • Arts + Entertainment
  • Eat + Drink
A 2022 rendering of One Main Plaza, which is within 5 miles of 168,130 people.
    By
  • Louis Llovio
  • May 26, 2023
Sprouts grocery store coming to downtown Sarasota

Sprouts Farmers Market has signed a long-term lease to be part of One Main Plaza, the Main Street development under construction.

  • Sarasota
  • Business
Coach Bailey Brauch teaches a group of students.
    By
  • Ian Swaby
  • May 25, 2023
Lessons at Aqua-Tots Swim Schools promote water safety

Aqua-Tots' "Swim with Your Clothes On" lessons teach young children how to survive falling fully clothed into a pool.

  • Sarasota
  • Neighbors
Chef Sellner’s culinary journey includes a stint as chef de cuisine and executive sous chef at the Mar-a-Lago Club.
    By
  • Marty Fugate
  • May 19, 2023
Pascone’s chef loves taking diners on a culinary journey

From fried spaghetti to French cuisine inspiration, Pascone's Ristorante Executive Chef William Sellner’s culinary journey is anything but boring.

  • Arts + Entertainment
  • Eat + Drink
Bloomin' Brands CEO David Deno says in May 2023 that Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar will grow to 100 locations and incorporate design of new flagship location in Tampa.
    By
  • Louis Llovio
  • May 17, 2023
New flagship Fleming's steakhouse coming to UTC

A restaurateur is building its new 13,000-square-foot flagship restaurant in Tampa and plans to grow the chain to 100 locations, starting with a new location in Manatee County.

  • Arts + Entertainment
  • Eat + Drink
Nikki Pelier Simon, John Simon and their daughter Ashley Sanchez are carrying on the legacy of this popular boutique.
  • By Emily Leinfuss
  • May 17, 2023
Scout & Molly’s new owners share their roots in fashion

When Scout & Molly’s former owner died last year, John Simon, Nikki Pelier Simon and their daughter Ashley Sanchez decided to carry on the legacy of this popular boutique.

  • East County
  • Business
Boo's Ice House & Dog Bar was named after owners Mindy Kaufman and Bobby Boivin rescue dog, Boo.
    By
  • Amanda Postma
  • May 16, 2023
Dog bar announces open date in Rosemary District

After three delays, Boo's Ice House & Dog Bar on 10th Street will officially let the dogs in on May 22.

  • Arts + Entertainment
  • Eat + Drink
Schnitzel, a zebra shark, was brought to Sarasota from an aquarium in Minnesota to be featured at the Science Education Aquarium
    By
  • Jay Heater
  • May 16, 2023
Mote prepares for the animals it will house in its new aquarium

As the infrastructure of Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium's new Science Education Aquarium is being completed, the aquatic creatures who will live there are being prepared to move to their new home.

  • East County
  • Business
Jennifer Currier, Jeff Kahn, and Laritha Burks
    By
  • Ian Swaby
  • May 12, 2023
Consulting service seeks to empower at-home caregivers

Two certified nursing assistants have launched Senior Consulting & Staff Support, whose goal is to offer caregivers the resources they need to keep seniors at home.

  • Sarasota
  • Business
Grant's Gardens will have a wider reach with the merging of the company with Stewart's Landscape Management clientele.
    By
  • Lauren Tronstad
  • May 10, 2023
Sarasota landscaper Grant's Gardens expands reach, clientele with merger

After nearly 44 years of operations, Stewart Landscape Management owner Jeb Stewart's employees and clients will become a part of the Grant's Gardens family.

  • Sarasota
  • Business
Pop’s Sunset Grill is on the Intercoastal Waterway across from Casey Key.
    By
  • Marty Fugate
  • May 5, 2023
Pop’s Sunset Grill honors restaurant’s roots — and its shrimp Rangoon

Great team. Great food. Sensational views and location. The secret of Pop’s success is no secret at all.

  • Arts + Entertainment
  • Eat + Drink
    By
  • Monica Roman Gagnier
  • May 5, 2023
Asolo Repertory Theatre names new managing director

Ross Egan will succeed 50-year Asolo Rep veteran Linda DiGabriele on July 1.

  • Arts + Culture
Rock & Roll Hall of Fame member Neil Giraldo created Three Chord bourbon.
    By
  • Ian Swaby
  • April 27, 2023
Musician Neil Giraldo delivers rockin' bourbon to Sarasota

The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame guitarist's premium Three Chord Bourbon made its debut in Sarasota's market.

  • Arts + Entertainment
  • Eat + Drink
Human Resources Consultant Ron Hamilton and new BPC board of directors members Tony Gamelin, Jeff Jackson and Jennifer Jorgesen
    By
  • Andrew Warfield
  • April 26, 2023
Bay Park Conservancy adds three new board members

The nonprofit overseeing The Bay park continues to expand its range of expertise as it prepares for phase two development.

  • Sarasota
  • Business
Items from Daiquiri Deck are displayed at the expo.
    By
  • Ian Swaby
  • April 8, 2023
Businesses come together at Sarasota Chamber Grand Expo

A chamber executive staff member said the turnout at the event saw a significant increase over previous years.

  • Sarasota
  • Neighbors
The St. Armands Business Improvement District sunsets on Sept. 30, 2023, unless property owners there vote to renew for another 10 years.
    By
  • Andrew Warfield
  • April 8, 2023
St. Armands business district renewal bid stumbles out of the gate

Tensions over the makeup of the business improvement district board cloud the election to extend special tax district extension.

  • Sarasota
  • News
Steve Germaine has been named CFO of the Bay Park Conservancy.
    By
  • Andrew Warfield
  • April 7, 2023
Bay Park Conservancy hires first full-time CFO

The Bay Park Conservancy continues to develop its executive suite by naming Steve Germaine to lead its finances.

  • Sarasota
  • Business
Southeastern Guide Dogs of Palmetto provides service dogs to recipients at no cost.
    By
  • Andrew Warfield
  • April 4, 2023
Daiquiri Deck promotion supports service dog program

Daiquiris for Dogs seeks to raise $10,000 for Southeastern Guide Dogs.

  • Sarasota
  • Business
The new Kilwins location on Siesta Key is now open.
    By
  • Andrew Warfield
  • April 2, 2023
New Kilwins opens in Siesta Key Village

Siesta Key native Lance Cassagnol returns to his childhood roots with the new dessert shop in Davidson Plaza.

  • Arts + Entertainment
  • Eat + Drink
This home was the highest-selling priced property sold in 2022 by Michael Saunders & Company for more than $17 million.
    By
  • Andrew Warfield
  • March 28, 2023
Michael Saunders makes top 500 real estate ranking

Sarasota-based Michael Saunders & Co. is ranked 77th nationally with near-record 2022 sales.

  • Sarasota
  • Business
Stephanie Crockatt is the first full-time president and CEO of the Bay Park Conservancy.
    By
  • Andrew Warfield
  • March 24, 2023
Bay Park Conservancy names first president and CEO

Stephanie Crockatt comes to The Bay after nine years of leading the development of the Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy, an 850-acre park network.

  • Sarasota
  • Business
« 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 »
The best of Your Observer, delivered directly to your inbox

Get the latest in news, sports, schools, arts and things to do in Sarasota, Siesta Key, Longboat Key and East County.

Sign Up

Latest in Sarasota

1
You'd better watch out: Tow-away zones set for Sarasota holiday parade
  • December 4, 2025
You'd better watch out: Tow-away zones set for Sarasota holiday parade
2
The moon shines between a pair of "Florida Reindeer."
  • December 4, 2025
Holiday display at Selby Gardens boasts over 2 million lights
3
A satellite image of Hurricane Irma.
  • December 4, 2025
Hurricane season ends without Florida landfall
4
Shane Rawley poses for a photo on Dec. 2 at Shaner's Pizzeria with his three published books. From left: "A February Thaw: A Peter Cobb Adventure," "January Freeze: A Peter Cobb Adventure" and "Peter Cobb: Three Strikes You're Out."
  • December 4, 2025
Former MLB pitcher and local pizzeria owner is an author
5
Sarasota Police Department personnel monitor Sarasota's network of cameras, license plate readers, gunshot detectors and other devices in the nearly completed Real-Time Operations Center.
  • December 4, 2025
SPD set to grow its city camera system

App

Download the Your Observer app

Stay in the know with the latest local news. Any device, anytime, anywhere.

DOWNLOAD NOW

Contact

  • 1970 Main St.
  • Third Floor
  • Sarasota, FL 34236
  • Phone: 941-366-3468
  • FPN Verified

Extra, Extra!

  • Newsletters
  • App
  • Crossword
  • Contests

more

  • About Us
  • Contact Us
  • Classifieds
  • Advertise
  • Rack Locations
  • Jobs
  • Privacy Policy
  • Accessibility Options

sister sites

  • Business Observer
  • Jax Daily Record
  • Orange Observer
  • Accessibility Options
  • Copyright © 2025 Observer Media Group Inc., All Rights Reserved
Sign Up for Daily Headlines

A daily dose of news from Longboat Key, East County, Sarasota and Siesta Key.

Sign Up for In Case You Missed It

A Saturday dose of the week's top stories from Sarasota, Longboat Key and East County.

The Your Observer App is Here!

Get local news you can trust — now on your phone, tablet or laptop. Fast. Free. Easy to Use.
Stay informed, wherever you are.

Download Now