FEBRUARY 4, 2018

SUPER BOWL SUNDAY...........

We can only hope for as exciting a game as last year's New England/Atlanta thriller.  My prediction is at bottom of blog.  ENJOY the game and party!!!


Playing now at ASOLO is SHAKESPEARE IN LOVE.  Winner of Academy Award for Best Picture several years ago, it is drawing big crowds in this theatre adaptation.

Critics raved.... " an absolute joy from beginning to end," it tells the story of playwright William Shakespeare as he begins his career in England.  While going through writers block (I know something about that) he meets the love of his life.  The rest you'll have to see on your own.  Now through March 28, Click here for performance schedule and to purchase tickets. You can also visit or call box office at 941-351-8000. 

With all the new restaurants open or about to open, it's easy to forget about the ones that got us here.  PATRICK'S has been a Main St. fixture long before many of their neighbors; in fact over 29 years!  Mark Freed went with family for their Monday $5 hamburger, and was not disappointed.

Mark writes, "...needless to say they were quite crowded, but seated without too much of a wait.  There were 5 of us and all ordered the burger.  Each one came out as ordered and stood the test of time.  The sides of cole slaw, potato salad and fries were equally as good.  Along with a full bar serving generous drinks reasonably priced;  definitely would go back."


Mark also commented on their extensive menu offering entrees, salads and specialty sandwiches.  Open daily with lunch, dinner and weekend brunch.  For those of you who have forgotten about Patrick's take another taste!!  Reservations for parties of 5.

URBANITE THEATRE continues to prosper with their unusual theatrical presentations.  The first of this season, Northside Hollow is set deep in a mine.  For several minutes there is no light as an explosion rocks the place and everything goes dark.  Jay Handelman calls it a"fully immersing experience."

For those of you who have never been to or heard of Urbanite, they are located close to Whole Foods at 1487 Second Street.  Seating is limited so my advice is to plan well ahead.  Northisde Hollow is playing through March 11. For tickets call 941-321-1397 or click here to purchase tickets.

The success of one of our favorite restaurants, THE ROSEMARY, has prompted

owner George Armstrong to expand not only to a new version  coming soon, but to a  deli a few doors down at 433 Orange.  CHARLIE'S Deli named for George and Jessica's son, is a welcome addition to the Rosemary district.

Open 10am-6pm with limited seating, you will be able to order sandwiches from a wide variety of Boar's Head product, feast on  lox and bagels and much more.

Also for take out will be whitefish spread, potato pancakes, matzo ball soup, lasagna and Rosemary meatloaf.  Chef Scott calls this"a work in progress", with more items added weekly. 



In my continuing effort to bring you unusual area events,

Quicksilver

I call your attention to next week's Gospel Music Convention.  Beginning Monday for  6 days at the Bradenton Convention Center at One Haben Blvd, just off US Hwy 301-41.

Many of the artists featured last year are back i.e., Booth Brothers, David Phelps, Quicksilver, Greater Vision, and Karen Peck.  More information is available at 941-756-6942 or click here for the complete lineup and various ticket purchase locations.

Opening Wednesday and running until Feb 18, Jan Wallace brings her acclaimed Shirley Valentine to Backstage at the Players.  More on this next week, but you can order tickets at 941-365-2494 or click here for Shirley performance schedule. Additional Players information as well.

JIM'S RANT....This week's opening of the first Amazon/Whole Foods continues a run of specialty grocery chains putting a foot down in our community.  Trader Joe's was followed by Fresh Market, Sprouts, Lucky's and Earth Fare.  What once was a small tourist stop in the winter has become a big-time community.  Sarasota is no longer a best kept secret!!!!...........Thanks for reading.  Until next week....JIM



EAGLES IN UPSET!!!!

JANUARY 28, 2017

THE WAIT IS ALMOST OVER.......

 

If  you are reading this early Sunday, you still have time to see the seasons best craft show.  The next scheduled St. Armands Circle show is not until June.  We were at the show yesterday, and OUTSTANDING describes it best.

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Next Sunday is devoted to parties and football.  BUT if you're into running, walking or just plain partying, the annual SARASOTA MUSIC HALF MILE MARATHON is for you.  The fun begins at The Van Wezel and concludes there with hot breakfast courtesy of this year's corporate sponsor, METRO DINER.  With a second location under construction, and a third on the way, Metro is gaining traction in our market.

Friend Randy Silagi writes..."In addition to raising money for local charities, the race promotes everything we find great about our city; healthy living , fun in the sun, family togetherness, musical diversity, and our wonderful neighborhoods.  Runners and walkers along the route will encounter everything from a Girl Scout Cookie aid to FREE beer, and oh yes, there will be 22 bands.  For those not up to the full 13.1miles, there is a shorter 10k event of 6.2 miles."  There is still time to register by clicking here. I am told there are very few participant tickets available.

Unlike other running events, this one draws a big crowd of viewers.  So head downtown next Sunday morning and enjoy a Super event for the big one later in the day.

People are raving about the new PLAYERS stage version of one of our classic all-time movies, Singin' In The Rain.  Drove by on Wednesday night and their parking lot was full.  Deservedly so, as Jay Handelman wrote in his Herald review....."Dancing is the star as choreographer Brian Finnerty has created some energetic, fast-paced  tap routines.  

Couldn't resist the original!!1

 Musical support comes from a pre-recorded orchestral sound track, which does detract from the performance. "  However, Jay goes on..."still there's no denying the joyous affection that has been put into every movement and step of this lively production.  Playing through next weekend call 941-365-2494 or click here to purchase tickets and see remaining schedule.


A recently opened restaurant,  7219 South on the trail is getting lots of good vibes lately.  Good friend, Marlene Meyer went to NAPULE, and writes.."word is out.  Very crowded for an excellent addition to our growing list of restaurants.  Everyone loved their meal.  We shared a pizza with creative crust fresh from their wood burning oven.  Adding to atmosphere, an ancient black/white Italian movie plays on huge screen.  Service was exceptional.  Call 941-566-9639 for necessary reservation."

Many of you have been CLAMORING for a SOL update.  Unfortunately it is not a happy one.  After a few unsuccessful attempts at a deli, Sol took up residence in Gulf Gate and produced a delicious cheesecake.  Many restaurants, including The ROSEMARY,  added it to their dessert menu to rave reviews.  Mark Freed advises, the cheesecake is no longer.  If any of you know of Sol's whereabouts please advise.

On a happier note, FST  debuted its second show of the season, Heisenberg.  Critics have been enthusiastic calling this a 'must see", "well directed", and touching.  Written by Simon Stephens who brought us Tony winning "The Curious Incident..", it takes place in a London train station, bringing two strangers together in an unusual way.  Tickets this show, as well as Cabaret can be purchased by clicking here.


JIM'S RANT......I may be in the minority on this one, but I feel the Sarasota Herald Tribune has become a much better read in the past few months.  Better local reporting, improved sports coverage, and more information on local attractions.  Maybe they knew about last week's WSJ extremely psoitive article on Sarasota,  and decided to upgrade.  Whatever, it still takes less than a cup of coffee to read the four sections........

Until next week, make this week a great one........JIM
 

JANUARY 21, 2018

THE BOYS OF SUMMER WILL BE BACK NEXT MONTH

In less than a month, baseball returns to Sarasota as the BALTIMORE ORIOLES report for spring training.  Games begin February 23 and run through march.

Tickets are on sale now at Ed Smith box office located at 2700 12th Street.    For a complete rundown go to For a complete schedule and other spring training items click here.

Some prime dates are Tampa 2/23, St Louis 2/8, Boston 3/4/22, Philadelphia 3/11 and NYY 3/14.
For additional information call 877-222-2802.

In anticipation of new WHOLE FOODS opening later this month at the corner of Honore and University, I've been spending time at their downtown location.  I don't know if you have the same opinion, but I was not impressed.   Sure the salad bar has been enhanced, prepared foods have been expanded and baked goods are all over the place, but in my estimation, the baked goods, especially my favorite rugelach were far better.  And the prices seem higher. I'm waiting to see if the new WHOLE FOODS lures me away from FRESH MARKET.
 

While driving around UTC this past week I witnessed the raising of a Circus Tent in the parking lot across from Dillard's.  It doesn't seem a year has passed, but CIRCUS SARASOTA is only a few weeks from opening performance Friday February 9.  Though lacking the box-office draw of Nik Wallenda, the impressive roster of international artists will thoroughly entertain you.

Titled OVATION, the show is dedicated to circus performers worldwide.   Some performers will be familiar while others are new;  Ukrainian quick change masters the Smirnovs,  French juggling master Kris Kremo and something called the Juju tight wire act are all new to this year's show.

Opening weekend tickets come with  20% off  courtesy of ABC 7.  Call 941-355-9805 or click here to order tickets on-line. I'll have information next week on box-office hours.

It's not often I get excited about a so-called fast food restaurant opening, but SHAKE SHACK is different.  Alerted by Mark Freed to their recent commitment to UTC, I refreshed my memory on this company. 

Founder and owner Danny Meyer is well known to those of us who visit New York on a regular basis.  His over 30 restaurants include Union Square Cafe, Blue Smokes and Cafes at MOMA.  Steak Shack began with a cart at Madison Square Garden and has grown to over 34 locations in NY,  Pennsylvania, Florida, and several other states.  Their Central Park location has lines on a regular basis.

Central Park Location

It will be awhile before Shake Shack is even under construction.  Their location will in the same area as a California Pizza Kitchen. But once open their gourmet burger, crinkle fries, shakes, hot dogs and specialty items will draw lines here as well.  However if you're looking for chain burger prices; forget it.  A double burger is just under $10.  But food never tasted as good as this.  I've had their burger and fries and can attest to their fine taste and quality.  Let's call this the rich man's Steak N Shake.


For those of you living in the eastern area of Sarasota, and are looking for an alternative to the very popular down town Saturday Farmer's Market, you now have another option.  Open Wednesdays through April, The Market at Lakewood ranch offers seasonal vegetables, meats, baked goods, dairy, poultry and more.  The ever-growing Sarasota Polo Club is their location 3-7pm.  Along with live music there are cooking demonstrations, wellness activities, and fun for kids of all ages.  Click here for more information and directions. Or call 941-556-8300.




Looking for a terrific movie this weekend?  Don't miss THE POST.   Directed by Steven Spielberg and starring Tom Hanks and Meryl Streep,  this one had me riveted from start to finish.  Taking place in 1971,  it tells of a fight for freedom of the press as well as the difficulty a woman had in those times to lead without being second-guessed or undermined.

The Post is a definite nominee for best picture.  Other nominations could include best actress, actor, director, costume as well.  Lots of competition this year, so I will not anoint this yet, but urge you to see it.  Spielberg was at the top of his game here.





JIM'S RANT.....For as long as can remember, The Epicure has been one of my favorite Main St.  restaurants for casual dining. After my lunch experience of last week, I am having serious doubts.  True it was only the second day open after months of renovation and I should forgive some sins but not having service for several minutes in a nearly empty dining room?  Little concern on part of management for the slow service?  The lack of Bloody Mary mix for several in my party.  If Epicure were a new restaurant I could easily forgive them, but not one with their tradition and reputation....****

****....Good friend Merrill Wynne went to Epicure last week and had a totally different experience.  He writes, "Six of us went to dinner.  Service outstanding.  Good food.   Place packed and served us in 10 minutes.  Just wanted you to know."

Thanks for reading this week....Hope to see you again next week.....JIM

JANUARY 14, 2018

JIM KNOWS SARASOTA RETURNS THIS WEEK WITH BREAKING SRQ NEWS.........




 

What had been rumored for months came true Tuesday as up and coming carrier, Allegiant Air announced its move to Sarasota.  With over 50 destinations, SRQ is now a bigger player in the region.

Unfortunately with good news comes bad...Elite Air which was to begin non-stop to Pittsburgh in February abruptly cancelled their plans.  No reason was given, but one can assume they were priced out of our market.

Monday marks what  would have been the 89th birthday of Martin Luther King.  This is one of the rare times the celebration of King falls on his actual birthday and  is being commemorated with several events in Sarasota.

Sponsored by Temple Emanu-El and the Newtown MLK committee, a 7:30 breakfast at Robert Taylor Community Center kicks off the day.  Following the breakfast will be a Unity Walk emblematic of the freedom marches of the 1960's.  In the evening Westcoast Black Theatre is presenting a program of music  with Nate Jacobs and several cast members performing along with what should be, a stirring speech from Reverend Charles Mackenzie.  

Tickets for the breakfast event will be available for $20 the Robert Taylor Community Center.  The evening performance still has limited seating available. .  Call 941-366-1505 for additional information.

If you are unable to participate in these and other celebrations around Sarasota, then at least take a few minutes to reflect on King's contributions to our country.  There has never been anyone like him in our lifetime.

Let the performances begin!!!  We are well into our annual social and entertainment season, and if you want to attend theatre or a gala, you can do so almost every night.

Only a few more days to see ONCE, but now playing is  well reviewed drama HEISENBERG.  Taking place in  a London train station, two strangers connect in the oddest way, and form a relationship that is both funny and touching.  A young woman plants a kiss on an older mans neck and with that the evening becomes a comical sparring match between the two.

Playing in the Keating Theatre this show runs through March 4, but will surely be extended.  But don't wait for that since most performances sell out this time of year.  For an easy way to order tickets click here or call 941-366-9000.

There was a time our Performing Arts Hall was somewhat of a white elephant, but no more!!  VAN WEZEL has a packed schedule of performers along with familiar Broadway musicals beginning now and culminating early May. 

Tomorrow  night brings back the legendary 5th Dimension and the

month concludes with Tony winner Cabaret.  Jackson Browne  will be here as will Michael Feinstein, Paul Anka and Renee Fleming.  For a complete listing of events click here. You can call the box office at 941-953-3368.
Or you can purchase tickets at Van Wezel and while there pick up a copy of their brochure.





With so many new and unusual restaurants now open, or about to open,  it is easy to forget Captain Brian's Seafood and Market....DON'T!!!!  Located 8421 North on the Trail,  Brian's is home to some of the best seafood in town, and at reasonable prices.   Where else in town can you get fresh catch seafood, an eye popping salad bar along with a side for under $25? And you can get a comparable meal at lunch for under $16.  No wonder there's a line this time of year.

I have no idea how long Brian's has been open,  throughout the years,  but very little has changed other than location from one end of strip mall to the other end.   While you're there take a look at their open market.  Though stone crabs are not plentiful this year, on most days you will find them at Captain Brian's.

One final note,  Brian is oneof a handful of restaurants offering round tables for large groups.  If party is HUGE, Brian can accommodate you.  Click here to view both menus as well as daily specials

A word of caution to those who have been to this restaurant; they do not take reservations.  So be prepared to wait or go early when less crowded.



Many of you will be reading this well after Monday's MLK events, but you still have time to honor and learn more about Dr. King.

  THE MOUNTAINTOP is running now  at Westcoast Black Theatre.  After giving his now famous Memphis speech, Dr, King returns to his hotel room to reflect on the speech and his time in Memphis. Ordering room service, a maid appears with coffee and a pack of cigarettes.  Together they share visions of what life is really about.  To order tickets click here or call 941-366-1505.





JIM'S RANT.....Several years ago Southwest's purchase of Air-Tran eliminated non-stop Baltimore flights from SRQ.  The Orioles draw considerably more fans for spring training games than the Pirates, yet now  non-stop service to that city, and none to Baltimore. Don't you think its time to correct this imbalance???

JIM KNOWS SARASOTA has been on hiatus for a few weeks due to computer issues.  I missed the opportunity of wishing all my readers

See you next week.....JIM.....