Dear Readers,
As summer settles over Sarasota the air becomes a palpable entity, thick with warmth and humidity. The sun blazes down with an intensity that seems to stretch the days into a languid haze, where time flows slowly like the tides of the Gulf.
This endless heat calls for a celebration of summer’s liquid delights—none more refreshing than the iconic Porch Pounder cocktail. Featured on the cover, this drink embodies the spirit of the season, offering a perfect antidote to the sun-soaked days.
Beth Fox shares three crisp and just-boozy-enough pounders to take the edge off the summer the heat. Cheers to that!
In this special restaurant issue of Edible Sarasota, we delve into the heart of our vibrant culinary scene, where the fusion of local flavors and innovative dishes tells the story of our coastal community. From a charming wine-and-cheese café in Venice to laid-back beach vibes in Anna Maria, each stop in this issue offers something special.
We also have you covered from Fork to Flight. The new local restaurants at Sarasota Bradenton International Airport are transforming the travel experience. As travelers pass through the terminal, they are tempted by an impressive array of dining options that reflect Sarasota and Bradenton’s unique culinary scene. PRO TIP: You can now get local oysters at the airport.
Speaking of oysters, we share an important follow-up story on Oyster Boys Conservation (OBC) as seen in our Fall 2022 issue. We dive deeper into the remarkable journey of these aquaculturists who are redefining the oyster-farming landscape along Florida’s Gulf Coast. OBC is in its third year of assembling and installing vertical oyster gardens (VOGs) around Sarasota and Venice. When we first shared their story, they had 100 VOGs in the water; today, thanks to various grants, there are more than 700. OBC also coordinates an oyster shell recycling program with local restaurants.
Instead of pitching those oyster shells, the restaurants sort the shells into 55-gallon drums donated by Geier’s Sausage Kitchen. I just can’t wait for the next follow-up story on these boys.
Here’s to a summer filled with delicious adventures, cherished memories, and the simple joy of sharing good food with good company. And yes, that was probably me and my daughter you saw eating pizza strips from Paisano’s at the red light on Clark. Paisano’s is more than a bakery—just go see for yourself.
Tracy Freeman
Editor, Edible Sarasota
