Fresh Gulf breezes and plates brimming with flavor—Sarasota isn’t just about sugar-soft beaches. Seafood is its real love language. During a recent stroll along Main Street, the scent of grilled snapper convinced me to swap my afternoon coffee for a plate straight from the docks. That decision ended up leading me on an accidental seafood tour, and now, I can’t walk along the bayfront without picturing towers of oysters and fork-tender grouper. Sarasota’s seafood scene is that persuasive.
Finding the best seafood in Sarasota isn’t about luck. With talent from local chefs and catches hauled in daily, the city’s restaurants make it tempting to plan every meal around the day’s catch. Whether you’re a lifelong local or a curious traveler, this guide will help you explore the can’t-miss spots, hidden gems, and crowd-pleasers—places that respect the craft and let their seafood speak for itself. Let’s dive in.
Where to find the best seafood in Sarasota, FL
Here are some of the top spots to find the best seafood in Sarasota, FL:
- Duval’s Fresh. Local. Seafood.
- Veronica Fish and Oyster
- Kacey’s Seafood
- Speaks Clam Bar St Armands
- Clayton’s Siesta Grille
- Owen’s Fish Camp Downtown Sarasota
- Spearfish Grille
- Walt’s Fish Market
- Connors Steak & Seafood
- The Siesta Key Oyster Bar
1. Duval’s Fresh. Local. Seafood.
Duval’s Fresh. Local. Seafood. pulls you in with a lively downtown vibe and delivers on its promise of the freshest seafood around. The first time I dined here, a friend insisted I try their catch-of-the-day. One bite of perfectly cooked grouper, and I was hooked—pun only slightly intended.
Everything on the plate feels personal, from the fish filleted in-house to the careful pairing of seasonal produce. Duval’s attention to detail is on show with dishes like their signature Po’ Boy, a local legend for a reason. Start with oysters and don’t miss their seared scallops; these dishes truly capture what Sarasota’s waters have to offer.
With attentive service and a menu brimming with local pride, Duval’s is an essential stop for anyone chasing authentic flavor in Sarasota.
2. Veronica Fish and Oyster
Veronica Fish and Oyster brings a taste of classic oyster bars to Sarasota, but with its own local twist. Stepping inside, you’ll notice a cool, inviting vibe that has you setting aside seafood clichés. My first night here, I went for the oyster sampler—it was a tour of the coast on a single plate.
The menu is creative without being fussy, centered around freshness and unforgettable flavor. Their wood-grilled fish changes by the day, putting the spotlight on whatever is best from local waters. If you’re an oyster lover, Veronica’s raw bar always delivers—order the East Coast and Gulf varieties to compare briny nuances.
Between attentive service and a menu with depth, Veronica Fish and Oyster has become a favorite for anyone serious about seafood in Sarasota.
3. Kacey’s Seafood
Kacey’s Seafood makes you feel like you’ve discovered one of Sarasota’s best-kept secrets. On my first visit, I was lured by the simple promise of great seafood without any pretense. The casual, welcoming space puts the focus right where it belongs: on the food.
Their fried grouper sandwich is legendary—crispy outside, tender inside, and always piled high. If you’re in the mood for something light, order the grilled shrimp salad; you’ll find freshness in every bite. Kacey’s menu is designed for seafood fans who like their plates generous and flavors honest.
The friendly service wraps the experience together, making Kacey’s a go-to spot for unfussy, high-quality seafood in Sarasota.
4. Speaks Clam Bar St Armands
Speaks Clam Bar St Armands sparkles with vintage charm and a dose of New York nostalgia. My first time here, the energy felt fresh, yet there’s history in every tile and recipe. You get the sense people come here for the food but stay for the vibe.
The standout is the linguine with fresh clams—classic, briny, and tossed in a sauce that doesn’t hide the seafood. Order a dozen clams casino to start, and let the flavors transport you. Speaks Clam Bar nails that balance between Italian comfort and Sarasota freshness, making it a unique spot on the Circle.
This is one place where you don’t mind lingering over your meal, savoring every bite and every moment.
5. Clayton’s Siesta Grille
Clayton’s Siesta Grille feels like a local favorite that just happens to cook incredible seafood. The dining room is warm, the crowd relaxed, and you get the sense that you’re part of a Siesta Key tradition.
Try their citrus-glazed grouper—a true nod to Gulf flavors, cooked until tender and bright. The fish tacos are another highlight: wrapped in a soft tortilla, each bite is packed with freshness. Clayton’s menu balances classics with creative twists, all rooted in the day’s best catch.
Generous portions, friendly service, and a welcoming setting make Clayton’s Siesta Grille a must for anyone who wants their seafood with a side of beach-town charm.
6. Owen’s Fish Camp Downtown Sarasota
Owen’s Fish Camp Downtown Sarasota has soaked up every drop of old Florida charm. The atmosphere is a playful nod to a slower, simpler era: there’s a tire swing outside and stories built into the walls. My visit began under the iconic Banyan tree and ended with a craving to come back.
The local fish is expertly cooked, served with sides that taste like tradition. Order the blackened fish, which comes out with flawless seasoning, and their house-made hush puppies. Every dish feels genuine, turning classic Southern seafood into something you want to linger over.
If you’re after the spirit of Florida on a plate, Owen’s Fish Camp is the place where comfort and quality meet under the live oaks.
7. Spearfish Grille
Spearfish Grille is as close as you’ll get to dining dockside without hopping a boat. Steps from the marina, this spot offers open-air comfort and an easygoing island atmosphere. My first visit was after a morning walk on Siesta Key Beach; even sand in my shoes couldn’t distract from the meal.
The grilled mahi-mahi is always fresh, simply seasoned to let the flavor shine. Try the fish tacos—a fan favorite—filled with locally caught fish and zesty slaw. Spearfish Grille’s laid-back approach puts the seafood front and center, with portions that satisfy and flavors that linger.
If you want beach-town dining without the usual fuss, this is the place to tie up and tuck in.
8. Walt’s Fish Market
Walt’s Fish Market delivers the feel of an old-school seafood shack, but with local flavor you won’t forget. On my first visit, I watched regulars greet each other by name—a sure sign you’re in the right place for genuine Sarasota seafood.
The grouper sandwich is always a standout: lightly fried, piled high, and full of bright Gulf taste. If you’re feeling adventurous, sample the smoked fish dip—rich and smoky, it’s a market signature. Every dish proves Walt’s knows their way around the freshest local catches.
With a bustling fish market out front and relaxed picnic tables in back, Walt’s is an essential stop for anyone chasing real-deal seafood in Sarasota.
9. Connors Steak & Seafood
Connors Steak & Seafood brings an upscale touch to Sarasota’s surf-and-turf scene. The restaurant is inviting, and the staff strikes the right balance between attentive and easygoing. My first dinner here was a group celebration, and everyone left debating their favorite dish.
Their seafood is as strong as their steaks—order the cedar plank salmon for a main that’s juicy and full of smoky flavor. The seared ahi tuna appetizer lives up to its reputation, arriving perfectly ruby in the center. For a lighter bite, try the shrimp and crab salad, which highlights the kitchen’s commitment to freshness.
Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty celebration or a refined meal, Connors delivers reliable quality to every plate.
10. The Siesta Key Oyster Bar
The Siesta Key Oyster Bar, known as SKOB, pulses with island spirit and good energy. Walking in, you’ll spot a ceiling covered in dollar bills and a crowd that feels more like a gathering of old friends. My first visit was on a Friday, when live music set the pace for a relaxed, laughter-filled evening.
The raw oysters here are the star—super fresh and shucked right at the bar. Order a platter and enjoy them while watching the world drift by. Their grilled grouper sandwich is another must-try, perfectly flaky and packed with local flavor.
If you want beach-town comfort with your seafood, SKOB is where the Siesta Key vibe comes to life on your plate.
More Things to Try in Sarasota, FL
Frequently Asked Questions
What seafood is Sarasota famous for?
Sarasota is known for its variety of fresh Gulf seafood, especially grouper, snapper, stone crab (seasonal), shrimp, and local oysters.
Are there any waterfront seafood restaurants in Sarasota?
Absolutely. Many local favorites, such as Walt’s Fish Market and Spearfish Grille, offer memorable dockside or marina views along with their seafood specialties.
Can I find halal or vegetarian seafood options in Sarasota?
Yes, several restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly menus. For halal-specific options, it’s best to call ahead to confirm, as most seafood itself is permissible but preparation methods may vary.
What’s the best time to enjoy fresh oysters in Sarasota?
Oysters are freshest in cooler months, particularly from November through April. Many spots have year-round raw bars serving oysters daily.
Is Sarasota seafood caught locally?
Much of Sarasota’s seafood is sourced directly from local fishermen and the Gulf. Many top restaurants update their menus daily to showcase the freshest local catch.