16 Best Mediterranean Restaurants in Sarasota

“Absolutely delicious! Very authentic food. Clean, casual, friendly, busy (make a reservation!) Menu is concise. Not overwhelming. Everything on the menu we had was outstanding. Prices very reasonable. Large portion sizes. Beer and wine menu. MUST TRY ?“

“Been coming here for years. Usually sit at the bar, tended most nights by Kelly. She’s always smiling, knows her drinks & will take good care of you. Mondays from 5:30 to 8:30 you’ll hear the whiskey-voiced singer-pianist Joe Thayer, who plays jazz standards, soft & classic rock, and a few pop tunes. Food’s excellent…lots of choices & a few daily specials—which sometimes go fast. Can get busy during the season…best to reserve in advance. Great place for holidays if you don’t want to cook!“

“Delicious gyro and fries lunch. Awesome owner too!“

“I had the pleasure of working with Kourtney, she was the first vendor I connected with when planning for my wedding. I found her to be very kind, professional, detail-oriented, and extremely helpful. Her recommendations were excellent, and her honesty was appreciated. The fact that she understood my needs, offered feedback, and always had a get-it-done attitude, was greatly appreciated. Mattison's is extremely lucky to have her. Not only was Kourtney a joy to work with, but Mattison's food was amazing, too! During our tasting, we were blown away by how good the food was (appetizers, salad, entrees, sides, you name it). We couldn't stop talking about how excited we were to eat such a wonderful meal. At the wedding, it was no different, everything was just as great as we remembered! The wait staff and bartenders were extremely kind and willing to make sure my husband and I, as well as our families and guests, were taken care of. We highly recommend them! To relive our wonderful memories, my husband and I look forward to visiting Mattison's again soon. If you want great customer service, amazing food, and a wonderful overall service experience, look no further!“

“In the past there were tables for 2, 4 and groups according to your reservation. This time all tables were for 6 and you were seated with strangers. We didn't really like this. But the buffet itself, as in the past, was excellent with great variety and first rate quality. Come hungry.“

“Amazing food and staff!! Outdoor dining and inside.“

“Good food, good wait staff, nice facilities.“

“The absolute best food and staff in Sarasota on St. Armand’s! A must try and go back often.“

“Best meal in a few years along with great atmosphere! We started with corn ribs, sweet potatoes, sautéed mushrooms and hummus for appetizers. Drinks were great, old fashioned, midnight, Cassandra and the Normans! Then we had steak kabobs, steamed octopus, the burger, shrimp and lemon potatoes. Deserts were manna split, soft serve with sea salt and olive oil, custard pie, sticky croissant with pistachio. Everything was absolutely perfect, and spectacular! If you come to Sarasota be sure you go the Florence and the Spice Boys! At UTC mall area.“

“This was our first time there but we will be back . The ambience, food and service was top notch! I would give it more than 5 stars if I could. Our server, I think his name is Pedro. He made suggestions that were right on. The food was amazing. Overall I would give it 5+ stars !“

“I It’s so unexpected to eat at a restaurant that truly blows you away but tonight we experienced just that. We ate at Djonisi’s Restaurant and let me tell you, it was one of the best meals we’ve ever had. The server gave us his name - Djonisi of course, it’s his family restaurant! And his mother was cooking tonight - we suspected we were in for a treat. Everything, and I mean everything, we had was delicious and cooked with love. The grilled octopus, may be the best we’ve ever had. PeiThe eggplant, feta red pepper, and taramosalata dips, and dolmades, the lamb chops were incredible. And the grill for two! They brought a mini chaffer to the table to keep it warm, perfect. Baklava and custard pie for dessert. We took home almost half the food the portions were so big. The lemon potatos and the tomato rice served with each meal - just proves they know exactly what they are doing. Amazing Greek food, such a nice Greek family, super clean and priced well. We will be back. Once we make some room in our bellies from this feast! And I’m Greek… I’ve been eating this food my whole life so you can trust me, I’m a professional 😂“

“I really enjoy Cava’s food and drinks, but this review is more to give thanks to a lovely staff member. Marietta was so pleasant when I stopped in. Not only was she professional, she brightened up my day with her kindness. Cava’s lucky to have her.“

“Lived here for 12 years and just discovered this place. Definitely the BEST Italian restaurant around. Everything tasted like my mother and noni had prepared it. Caesar salad was the real thing. Gnocchi truly melted in my mouth. Sauce was exceptional.“

“Pleasant local family run Greek restaurant. Food was very good and prices were very reasonable. Service was a bit erratic since the restaurant was packed. Reservations are essential. Parking can be a serious issue and be careful not to park in the convenience stores spots.“

“My party and I visited for dinner on St Patrick’s Day. The food was great, service was impeccable, and the owner was so kind. Definitely recommend!“

“We had an incredible dining experience at this Lebanese restaurant! The food was absolutely amazing. The falafel was hands down the best I’ve ever had—crispy on the outside and perfectly seasoned inside. The babaganoush was smooth, smoky, and full of flavor. I also tried the chicken/beef mix shawarma, kafta, and fattoush, and every dish was just as delicious. What made the experience even better was the warmth and friendliness of the staff. They made me feel right at home, and their passion for the food really shines through. This place is an absolute gem. If you're looking for authentic Lebanese flavors with a welcoming atmosphere, this is the spot. Highly recommend!“