Derek's Culinary & Casual 514 Central Avenue Sarasota, FL 34236 Phone: 941-366-6565 Fax: 941-366-5353

9.3	Food Presentation Decor Service Value 10 9.5 9.5 9 8

Culinary sophistication in a casual setting. Derek’s Culinary Casual, the name says it all.

Located in the up and coming but not quiet gentrified historic Rosemary District, Derek’s stands out. The simple storefront marked by a red sign provides an interesting contrast to the hip open kitchen, high ceilings, paneled wall coverings, and sophisticated menu offerings.

A New American styled restaurant focused on fresh local food offering a varied, yet consistent menu. The unique and creative mix of spices, herbs, and ingredients provide a culinary treat for all diners. The menu offers 4 distinct selection options.

1) Small Plates and Bowls (appetizers and salads)
2) Principal Dishes (entrees: seafood, lamb, beef, pork, and poultry)
3) Simple Grills (bone in rib eye, salmon, chicken, or pork chop)
4) Weekly Specials (showcased foods and preparations from around the world)

We chose the following for our dinner:

Sea Scallops Tartine: Pan seared sea scallops, sweet pea puree, croustade, shaved shallots, aged sherry vinegar aioli $11
Country Spinach: Baby spinach, kiln dried cherries, shaved fennel, candied pecans, blue cheese dressing $9
Duck Two Ways: Seared duck breast, pecan crusted leg confit, creamed spaetzle, bacon braised greens, burnt honey jus $27
Beef Short Ribs: Beef Short Ribs, cauliflower & fingerling potato gratin, wild mushrooms, baby green bean, cracked Malabar pepper reduction $26
Yellow Fin Tuna: Oyster mushrooms, caramelized parsnips, garlicky broccoli, bacon preserves, roasted pear jus $29

To say the food was great would be an understatement. We are talking about food for the serious “Foodie.” The creative combination of foods, textures and tastes result in a meal where you want to lick your plate! The accompanying wine list, the friendly, knowledgeable wait staff, and the warm ambience of the dining room make Derek’s one of the most enjoyable dining experiences in Sarasota.

SRQ Reviews, the restaurant guide you need to find the best dining in Sarasota, Florida.

Categories: American, Eclectic, New American
Styles: Bistro, Fine Dining, Lunch, Zone - Rosemary District

URL: http://www.dereks-sarasota.com/

Back to Review Listings