DECEMBER 30, 2018

Best wishes for a safe and healthy New Year

Christmas eve and Christmas day are not the best day/night to eat out, but two very good restaurants were open to feed our stomachs.

COLUMBIA on the circle was wall to wall and then some Christmas Eve.  Even with a reservation, we had a 15 minute wait, which was well worth it.  Starting with hot bread and table made sangria, we ate our way through Cuban bean and rice soup, 1905 salad,  Chopped tomato, and stuffed mushroom.  No room for dessert, and nothing left to take home.  Server was Derian, who made best 1905 salad ever.  

COLUMBIA will be busy throughout the winter months, so I recommend a reservation.  Call 941-388-3987, go to Open Table or www.columbiarestaurant.com or drop in and prepare to wait 30 minutes.  You can also drive to Tampa.



YUMMY HOUSE is thriving in its new location; especially Christmas day, when a reservation is hard to come by.  Fortunately, friend Joe Marsh had one and we joined him and Martha for a Christmas feast of fabulous Chinese food with wine and YUMMY'S famous mixed drinks i.e., a Marsh Manhattan and Fox Martini.  Along with egg roll, won-ton soup and house fried rice we were stuffed and ready to go home.  Reservations are a must this time of year at 941-351-1688.

Sarasota Modern Hotel/ Rudolph's

As we head to new adventures in eating in 2019, I am currently watching a recently opened restaurant and two motr under construction restaurants in the downtown corridor.  RUDOLPH'S in the recently opened Sarasota Modern Hotel 1290 Boulevard of the Arts, is modern, intimate, with great looking lounge, and totally empty at most times.  I am reluctant to be one of the first, so please, if any of you have been let me know; good or bad!

SAGE is ready outside.  Inside not yet

SAGE , in the former home of Ceviche Tapas Bar and Restaurant, was due to open late 2018, but for whatever reason is still undergoing internal renovation.   No word yet on menu, though I'm told it will be offering American traditional and continental on their menu.  They should be a success, if only for their rooftop bar and dining options.

Umbrellas..coming soon

UMBRELLAS is the name of newest eatery in former home of First Street Chop House.  Located across the street from BIJOU, and around corner from Opera House, I have no further information other than name.  From looks of activity in recent days, they are months away from opening.  For those of you unfamiliar with the location, it has been home of several failures.



Time is running out on one of the season's outstanding attractions.  The 15th annual SELBY LIGHTS IN BLOOM ends before next week's blog on January 6.  Featuring over 2 million lights throughout the Botanical Gardens, you can also drive by for a quick view from US 41.

Small sample of Light Show

 It is suggested to order tickets in advance, as long lines begin forming at 4:30 opening.  Parking is available, but a downtown trolley or Uber is suggested.  Admission is $25 adults; $7 children 5-12.  For more information go to www.selby.org.



Always looking for a good bagel, and found one under my nose a few weeks ago.   Our walking group made a big discovery when,  rather  than wait at Starbucks for coffee,  we opted for WHOLE FOODS.  AND, much to our pleasant surprise, WHOLE FOODS has one of the best bagels in Sarasota.  

 After toasting and armed with butter and cream cheese, we devoured our sesame, everything, poppy seed and plain.  Reasonably priced, baked fresh daily, and lots closer than Lox n Egg Bread Company,  WHOLE FOODS is as good as it gets for bagels in Sarasota.

JIM'S RANT.....So, Sarasota County is considering paid parking at Siesta Key beaches.  This move is being made, after MANY years of heavy congestion on the island, and complaints from those who live on Siesta Key.  Residents would be able to apply for stickers to avoid the parking fee.  Paid or free, on a sunny 70plus degree day, it is impossible to move by auto on the Key.  I feel your pain Siesta, I don't agree with charging for it.....Another year gone by....hope the new one is a healthy one for all of us......... JIM

DECEMBER 23, 2018

AND TO ALL A GOOD NIGHT

There's lots  of anger and frustration in our country right now, and for at least the week of Christmas and New Year we should put our angst away and celebrate our friends, family, neighbors and THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR.

If music is your choice, Music Mondays,  SILL  presents 12 unique interviews with local and national artists.  From singers, pianists and composers you not only will learn about the artist and their instrument, but watch them perform as well.

Global Issues will give you an insider's view of today's world.  Lectures featuring well-known and recognizable experts in the fields of diplomacy, academia and public affairs are scheduled for Sarasota, Venice and Lakewood Ranch.

Tickets are $10 at the door or subscription of $85.  For a complete schedule go on-line to www.sillsarasota.org, or look for their ad in this week's Observer.

Also available in this week's Observer is their quarterly SEASONS magazine insert for Winter 2019 with months of December through March.  From lectures, to theatre, to sports and culture, SEASONS will help you plan  for the events well in advance of their announcements.


It's been several months since dining at Mediterraneo , but this past week's dinner was as good as remembered, if not better.  Starting with their tomato on toast to bread to salad to pasta.  And ending with their famous Profiteroles, no one went home hungry.  Service was excellent as well. 

In their same Main St. location since 1996, with ample street and garage parking, Mediterraneo, continues doing Classic Italian better than most of its competitors.  And equally important, they have kept pricing fair and reasonable.

  Reservations are available on Open Table or calling 941-365-4122.  We were there on a busy Tuesday and sat away from the noise in their back room. 

Anu Tali

Hard to believe we are almost into 2019, but in a little over a week we will be there.  Early January 4-6, Sarasota Orchestra brings its 3rd Masterworks presentation to Van Wezel Saturday evening or Sunday matinee.  Conductor Anu Tali, a few months from her grand finale, conducts a concert "Summer to Winter",  featuring Grammy nominee  and world-renowned violinist, James Ehnes.

Tickets are ridiculously priced starting at $34.  Order yours now before this becomes a sell-out at 941-953-3434 or www.SarasotaOrchestra.org.

The one and only MARVIN GAYE

Westcoast Theatre  Troupe's current presentation has been here before; but never this good!  Now try getting a ticket.  Sheldon Rhoden returns for a third time as Marvin Gaye:  Prince of Soul was sold out well in advance, but stand-by tickets are available for all performances. 

 For this production, Nate Jacobs has the benefit of Gaye's entire catalogue and with his cast of 15 makes use of most of them.  Unless extended, the closing is Jan 13.  LOL, but call 941-366-1505 or visit their boxoffice at 1012 N. Orange.



While George Armstrong waits for permits to complete his Rosemary and Thyme , The Rosemary continues to provide great meals for special occasions like the coming holidays.  Open for dinner Christmas Eve and Day with special menus as well as New Year's Eve for breakfast, lunch and SPECIAL New Year's Eve dinner menu until 9:pm.  Closed January 1st.  Call 941-955-7600.  To view Holiday Menus go to www.RosemarySarasota.





JIM'S RANT....With the miserable weather this past week, I've been watching ABC7 news for Bob Harrigan's weather forecast.   It's not Bob's fault to be preceded and followed by more 30 second spots than I could count.  How does an advertiser expect a consumer to remember as many as 8!!! back to back.  Oh for the days of product separation,  and number of spots permitted by FCC during program breaks. No wonder Netflix is so popular these days.....Have a wonderful holiday and I'll see you for the last blog of 2018....JIM

FYI....Direct flights now to Atlanta, Cleveland, Philadelphia NOW!!

DECEMBER 16, 2018

ONE WEEK LEFT UNTIL THE BIG DAY........

SANTA SEEMS A BIT HARRIED.  DON'T LET THIS HAPPEN TO YOU

"It's the most wonderful time of the year...."  Andy Williams sings this on most radio stations these days as everyone prepares for Christmas/New Year.  What better place to get ready than Sarasota, where the weather is great (most of the year) and activities abound at several venues.


But before giving you a sample of what's playing, it's always fun to learn of new restaurants from Debbie and Mark.  A few days ago they went to the newest GROVE, on Main Street Lakewood Ranch.  They write..."sad to see Polo Grill close, but GROVE did not disappoint.  In fact, it far exceeded our expectations.  Food was excellent as was the well-trained and knowledgeable wait staff.

Most offerings are meant to be shared and come with two sides.  Sandwiches come with choice of slaw, fries and home-made chips.  Go with the chips, paper thin, crispy and warm.  Best we've ever had.  Burger was yummy, and pork osso bucco  rivals more established competition.

We topped off our dinner with coffee served  with complimentary cookies.  We can't wait to go back.  Open for lunch, happy hour and dinner,  GROVE is destined to be the east side of town go-to place for those meals and more.

Happy Hour runs until 7 and features Tito vodka for $5.00."  I am taking their advice and made an Open Table reservation for next week.   GROVE is located at the foot of Main Street Lakewood Ranch.  I spoke to Debbie and Mark as they were leaving the restaurant,  and they made my mouth water.  Debbie enthusiastically told me, " GROVE will be one of our go-to eating destinations in 2019".

FLORIDA STUDIO THEATRE has three of the best productions around.  You're problem is finding tickets, as most performances are sold-out.  However, there is always stand-by, and wherever possible performances are added.  Either call at 941-366-9000; visit them at www.floridastudiotheatre.org, or visit in person at 1241 N. Palm Ave.



Held over is Tony winner A Gentleman's Guide to Love & Murder.  I wrote about this one a few weeks back.  Though a bit long, FST'S production mirrors the show I saw on Broadway several years ago. 


Unchained Melodies continues in the John C. Court Cabaret until February when it moves to the Keating.  Tickets for this exceptional performance are at a premium.

Continuing is recently opened Guitar Girls.  Have not seen this yet, but friends tell me "entertaining", "fast-moving", "memorable song book", "not as good as Melodies", but what is???  When you purchase tickets, as always, my advice is a subscription.

Added to the mix is Straight White Men which opened Thursday and runs through March 1, 2019.  Early reviews were positive.  I'll have more next week.

Original Music Man

ASOLO REP is nearing the end of its opening musical The Music Man.  I chose not to see this as show seems dated to me; however others have enjoyed the performance, and claim it has been updated and is on par with most opening attractions at this theatre. I've checked availability, and am happy to report YES.  Call 941-351-8000 or www.asolorep.org.

Lights are magical at Selby Gardens

One attraction that never grows old is LIGHTS in BLOOM throughout the holiday at Selby Gardens.   This 11-acre botanical garden comes alive at night with thousands of lights illuminating the many plants and orchids.  Open every evening until Christmas Eve.,  but if you are in for a party, the night of December 22 is for you.  Your ticket for the evening includes reserved parking, early admission, music and entertainment,open bar, buffet, and a selection of desserts.

  

One of the many highlights of this year's Van Wezel Broadway series is crowd favorite On Your Feet.  Dubbed a "jukebox musical" by NY Times, Feet tells the story in music of 26-time Grammy Award-winning husband and wife team Gloria and Emilio Estafan.  For those who don't know or remember, the beat is Cuban-fusion and includes hits Conga, 1-2-3, and Rhythm is Gonna Get You.  No longer on Broadway, Sarasota is one of the first cities to host Feet's national tour.

The dates are December 26-30 and includes matinee and evening performances.  For tickets the box-office is open daily from 10 or call 941-953-3368.  You can also purchase tickets on line at www.vanwezel.org.

Out of town guests and locals should enjoy what UTC is offering through early January.  Right in front of the Mall and on Cattleman is Holiday On The Green.  Along with the daily and nightly ice-skating, depending on the night there are movies on the lawn.  Either pack a lunch/dinner or take advantage of the several restaurants open to serve.  Among them, JPAN, Cassariano, Acropolis Greek Taverna and BurgerFi to mention a few.



One week left to see a return engagement of always popular, ALL SHOOK UP, at Players.  Featuring the songs of Elvis Presley; and who doesn't remember his music; this energetic cast of local performers gives you an entertaining and worry free two hours of music and corn!!  I have to warn you that along with noise from a motorcycle, there is an addition of Shakespearean theme as well.  Highly unusual, but it works.

Running through 12/23 with affordable $14--$32 tickets.  For yours call 941-365-2494 or www.theplayers.org.

JIM'S RANT.......The headline in Wednesday's Herald said it all..Goodbye G. WIZ.  Once the home of Selby Library , and then until recently a center for science and technology is being torn down to make way for the years away bayfront redevelopment project.  What a pity that not only will the building go, but so what use to be a main Sarasota tourist attraction.  Sarasota is to blame for letting G.WIZ deteriorate without ever updating  the exhibits.  For a city that prides itself for being a haven for the arts, this one is shameful..........Good to be back....see you next week...JIM

DECEMBER 2, 2018

SEE YOU IN A FEW WEEKS..................

JIM

To view past issues click date to right of BLOG......

NOVEMBER 25, 2018

THE CIRCUS IS COMING...........

Not the Walenda Family, but Just as Exciting

The Big Top is up at UTC.....Rehearsals are on going...BOX OFFICE is open...so what are you waiting for?  Performances begin December 27 and run through the 30th.  The performers are young, energetic, enthusiastic and put on one heck of a show.  For more information call 941-355-9805 or visit CircusArts.org.





Don't know about you, but I LOVE Christmas Music.  If you feel the same, or just want to get into the spirit, 98.7 on the FM band is wall to wall.  And, if you keep listening they have non-commercial 98 minutes several times daily.  Of course, there is always a satellite station devoted to Christmas year round.

Conductor Andrew Lane

 The ultimate Christmas performance comes next month during the annual HOLIDAY GREAT ESCAPES.  Once again Andrew Lane  leads the Pops Orchestra through a parade of classics along with vocals, sing along, and video.  A Sunday matinee performance has been added this year to satisfy demand, as the opening night ESCAPES is sold out.  Dates are 12/7-9.  For tickets and more call 941-953-3434 or visit on line sarasotaorchestra.org.


A few weeks ago, VAN WEZEL, in appreciation for their subscribers had a party to say thank you.  And what a party it was!!  A wine pairing at Michael's Wine Cellar featuring Michael's International wine along with their wonderful food.  Met some very interesting Sarasota-Bradenton residents.  Hats off to Natasha Herrera and her staff for a wonderful evening.

I am sworn to secrecy, but the first show to be announced soon for 2019/2020 season is a whopper.  Stay tuned.

Inside SRQ

Heard from several of you last week who got the news here first about Allegiant Air adding several non-stop flights from SRQ.  Now comes word of additional United Airlines non-stop service to Denver.  Though only during spring break next March, it shows the continuing growth of airport and Sarasota.  The need to travel to Tampa for a flight is becoming less and less.



NETFLIX added a show this week that I wholeheartedly recommend.  From creator Chuck Lorre comes The Kominskey Method.  Starring Michael Douglas, Alan Arkin, Nancy Travis and too many cameos for this blog.  Lorre is best known for his CBS comedies i.e., Big Bang Theory and Two and a Half Men among others.  Kominsky  is far removed from those comedies. Consisting of 8  30 minute programs;  it was easy to watch in one sitting.  Can't wait to laugh out loud again!!!




This week's dining adventures took us to Saint Armand's Circle to an oldie but still goodie, THE SHORE.  Not much has changed since 2012 opening except co-owner Mark Cargiulo is no longer involved.  The menu has an eclectic mix of seafood, pasta, fried chicken along with my favorite, The Shore Burger to which I added truffle fries and slaw.

The Main dining room is airy though noisy on nights when the bar is busy.  There is ample seating in a rear dining room along with quiet  outdoor dining.   Open for lunch as well as weekend brunch call 941-296-2307 for reservations.  There will be a second location on Longboat, which has been delayed due to a recent fire.


To all my Jewish friends a HAPPY HANUKAH.  Obsereved and celebrated December 2-10

This week's issue of OBSERVER Group includes their annual GIFT GUIDE.  You will find creative gifts for every member of the family.  You can pick up the GUIDE wherever the OBSERVER is distributed.  If you are looking for an usual gift to give this CHRISTMAS, the GUIDE will give ideas for ALL members of your family!!!  They will be available through the month of December.






JIM'S RANT........I'm happy to report we all survived the horror of BLACK FRIDAY.  My guess is most of us took advantage of all those BLACK discounts before the big day.  What I'm having difficulty surviving, is the incessant email barrage from all my on-line activity these past months.  As soon as I delete them, they're back with even more offers.  Oh for those days of the real BLACK FRIDAY.....On that note, I am taking leave for a few weeks of travel...hopefully you'll be back December 16 as I count down to 2019......Until then......JIM

NOVEMBER 18, 2018

GIVE THANKS ON THURSDAY......And don't eat too much!!

When you finish the left-overs and the early shopping you should consider a trip to FST.  Kicking off their 45th season is the Tony Award winning 

musical A Gentleman's Guide to Love and Murder.  Unlike most FST productions, Murder is relatively new, opening on Broadway in 2013 and winning the Tony for best musical in 2014.  Jay Handelman's review was mixed, but I found the performance entertaining from the get-go; and so did the audience. 

A subscription package gives best value, and along with flexibility, you can change at the last minute and not lose out on seeing all of FST's  season.  Call 441-366-9000 or visit www.floridastudiotheatre.org.  This show has been extended through January 5, 2019 when it must close.

Several of you were recently spotted at newly opened CASSARIANO .  Located on Cattleman across from UTC, this Italian restaurant is drawing rave reviews from everyone!! Joan B. writes.."it is a wonderful dining experience.  Michael had veal chop on bone Caprice style while I ordered Pappardell pasta (home made) with veal meat sauce...best ever..can't wait to go back.

Mark F.  concurs and states.."restaurant was very nice inside and had really good help who were pleasant and informative.  Our party of 4 had excellent salmon, fairly priced and large portion;  also chicken Milanese, pasta Bolognese, eggplant parmigiana appetizer and Caeser salad.  Every dish was delicious and large enough for sharing.  Overall I would rate it a 9 and can't wait to go back!"

Both are happy to have an upscale restaurant so close to home in the University/Lakewood Ranch corridor.   Whatever the location, this NEW Italian Eatery is sure to be busy for years to come.



Mark your calendar for the best craft show of 2018 as SARASOTA ART & HANDMADE HOME SHOW returns to Robarts Arena.  Three days only: Nov.30-Dec.1&2.  100 of the nation's top artists displaying not only jewelry, paintings, sculpture, leather, glass and more.  This 10th year edition promises to be biggest yet.  Hours are 10-5 with general admission starting at $12.  For more information go to www.sahhs.com.


At long last there will now be non-stop flights from SRQ to BWI.   Fast growing Allegiant Air not only committed to Baltimore, but eight other destinations as well.  When making your travel plans to major US destinations chances are you will find a non-stop from SRQ. Quite a change form the 80's when a drive to Tampa was necessary for long distance travel.  Hats off to Allegiant for making SRQ significant on the West Coast of Florida.




As a fan of the movies, I look forward to this time of year when many of the better features are released.  This year has been blessed by not one, but two driven by pop music.  I wrote recently about Star is Born with terrific performances by Lady GaGa and Bradley Cooper. 

 Now comes Bohemian Rhapsody, which easily tops it with an "over-the-top" performance by television star Rami Malek.  Known for his role as Elliot Anderson in Mr. Robot, Malek nails it as Queen's Freddie Mercury in this docu-drama which had the sold-out theatre sitting and watching closing credits.

Rami Malik as Freedie Mercury

My recommendation is to see it now before December releases forces Bohemian Rhapsody to performances at Parkway Cinema, home of $2 movies with fuzzy screen, poor sound system and tired seating.   When  this year's Academy Awards nominations are announced Malik, Cooper and GaGa will be the ones to watch.  Glen Close will be there as well for THE
WIFE.

Randy and Pam Silagi are nearing an end to their African adventure, returning home the end of this month.

Sunset sail in Stone Harbour

  They wrote recently...."Zanzibar is a magical island with pristine beaches and crystal clear water.    Next stop Zimbawe."

I-Ride African Style

Randy also took time to compare his adventure to home while visiting  Zanzibar City " not unlike Sarasota with its own version of an I-Ride...."

Looking for some free entertainment? The lights are up again on Univeristy and UTC, and what a display they are.  Starting on Honore and moving to I75, the area is lit up beyond description.  Drive Cattleman and arrive at Holiday Village with its OUTDOOR ice-skating rink and pretend you're in some cold east-coast city and not Sarasota, Florida.  Go beyond UTC and you're at Nathan Benderson Park, where for the first time THE FENCE exhibit is playing Sarasota.  Featuring more than 200 large-format photos exhibited on an 800-foot fence,  similar to our annual Embracing our Differences; only bigger.  Happy Holiday Season!!

JIM'S RANT.... The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are a disaster.  With a roster of high-paid players, they have under-performed on both sides of the ball.  The blame goes not only to fired offensive and defensive coordinators, but head coach Dirk Koetter who is responsible for this mess of a professional football team.  And what about the kicker????  Since cutting Matt Bryant in 2008 there have been 7 lousy replacements.  What gives???.....UNTIL NEXT WEEK.....JIM

Black Friday in all its horror!