JUNE 2, 2019

WELCOME SARASOTA MUSIC FESTIVAL..........

An Univited Guest Condutor

The Annual Music Festival began last night with a Holley Hall concert, and concludes June 22 with a grand finale presentation in the Opera House.  For a complete schedule and to purchase tickets call 941-953-3434 or go to sarasotaorchestra.org.

The Cause of Main/Lemon Closure

If you're planning a visit to popular restaurants HYDE PARK, BOCA, BRICKS or one of  the other restaurants  in that area, a word of caution.  The intersection at Main Street-Lemon Avenue is closed and will remain closed until July 4 the earliest.  All this for as pavers are installed on street and sidewalk in anticipation of Mark opening later this year.

Not to worry if you're a walker, as foot traffic will be maintained throughout the duration of the project.  I'm hopeful with construction finished, we will all be appreciative of the new look of Main-Lemon.



FLORIDA STUDIO THEATRE continues to provide "swinging" entertainment throughout the hot summer nights.  Their recently opened The Marvelous Wonderettes has generated reviews reserved for fall and winter.  This is a main stage musical presentation normally reserved for the cabaret.  Though you're not able to enjoy a table side meal with this one, you will enjoy all the wonderful music from the '50s and 60's.  Funny how the music from that era never grows old, while today's music fades away in weeks.


Tickets remain for most performances.  As always their box office on site is a convenient way to purchase seats.  Or call 941-366-9000.  For a complete schedule you can find it at floridastudiotheatre.org.

The Cabaret begins performances June 11.  More on the first show Come Together next week.  With music from The Beatles, Simon & Garfunkel, Cher and Billy Joel, how can it be anything but entertaining and nostalgic.

The day begins in Sarasota

Sarasota once again is being recognized as one of the Best Places to Retire in Florida; but we already knew that!!!!  This from an online personal finance portal Smart Asset (no, I never heard of them either).

  Their findings were based on tax-friendliness, medical care and social life.  Naples is ranked number 1; while our neighbor to the south Venice is ranked 8.  The complete list is available on their web-site.

This week's TICKET should be necessary reading for those of you taking advantage of SAVOR SARASOTA week 6/1-6/14.  Included is a list of their recommendations of the top 10 places to dine.  There are nearly 90 restaurants participating, but this is a good starting point.  As I've pointed out before, many of these restaurants extend SAVOR beyond the June 14 end date.

Three course meals are offered for lunch and dinner at a  price fixe of $16 and $32.  For a complete list go to SavorSarasota.com. 


My Tuesday ROMEO lunch group returned to Libby's in hope their newly renovated restaurant on Osprey would be an improvement from our last meal a year ago.  Sadly, other than a bright. exciting, open-space modern dining area, nothing else had changed.


The menu is large with several new and unusual additions.  Not too dissimilar to recently opened Lemon Tree.  Lots of salads, burgers, small plates.  Nothing out of the ordinary to set Libby's apart from the ordinary.

Larry was enthusiastic about his steak tartar,  but the rest thought our salads and soup just so-so.  It was our server who made the meal less than satisfying.   Late with some entrees, and not delivering what was ordered; instead of making us feel welcome, his lack of attention did otherwise.

I wish Libby's well, but they will go forward without a return visit from Tuesday ROMEO group.  

An article  in the aforementioned TICKET makes no mention of food quality or service, but serves as a rundown of what Libby's is attempting to accomplish with its brasserie feel and open layout.  However, a recent review by food editor Laura Finaldi was glowing; go figure. 




If you're not worn out from last weekend's St. Armands Circle Seafood Festival, they're inviting you back for still another CRAFT FESTIVAL next weekend.  Go early, as the afternoon heat does not make pleasant shopping.

If you don't mind the heat, our Sarasota  Farmer's Market continues year round.  If you look closely, crafts and other non-food items are available on both Lemon and Second St.

JIM'S RANT...... This week, Governor DeSantis and his cabinet paid a visit to Israel where he held a cabinet meeting and  visited  several historical sites.  For some reason this trade-goodwill mission was criticized by media and others who thought the trip was 'inappropriate."  With a large Jewish population in Florida and several business ties to Israel, DeSantis should be praised, not vilified.  Hats off to our Governor....JIM.....Have a great week, and I'll see you again next Saturday for my last blog before fall..........

MAY 26, 2019

MEMORIAL DAY MAY 27, 2019.........................................
REMEMBERING THOSE WHO SERVED TO PROTECT OUR COUNTRY

This extended holiday weekend of family and picnics, also gives you an extra night out to enjoy one of Sarasota's expanding list of restaurants or catch final performances of  The Wonder Years at FST Cabaret or the critically acclaimed Sweeney Todd at Asolo Repertory Theatre.  Whatever you're up to have a great weekend.

Howard and Steven Colbert Tuesday Night

If you're going to beach or pool and looking for a book, I suggest Howard Stern Comes Again.  A collection of some of his most memorable interviews; especially his 11 with Donald Trump!  When Stern went to satellite radio, with little or no restraints, he became the best interviewer on that medium.  If you are a Stern listener or not, you will enjoy this book.


At my urging, my Tuesday Romeo group had lunch at Wicked Cantina.  Located south on the Trail , it is easy to get to, and will be just as easy to avoid.  The food wasn't bad, but not great either.  For Mexican or lunch salad there are several restaurants I could recommend before this one.  On the plus side,  the service was good, portions ample, low noise volume, and accessible  parking adjacent to restaurant.  Next week we return  to Libbys.

Stephanie and Allen H went to Libbys a few weeks ago and write..."It's a beautiful restaurant and great service.  We love the bar, but get there early 4:30-5, as it was packed.  Ordered the brisket burger which was cooked the way we requested.  Served with fries and coleslaw.  Drinks were very good.."  Hope I agree next week as my ROMEO group make a return visit to Libby's in their totally reconstructed restaurant.

It's not too late to purchase great seats to next month's Sarasota Music Festival.  Running June 1-22, classical musicians from around the world converge on Sarasota for three weeks of master classes and breathtaking performances.  Two locations, Holley Hall and Opera House.  Tickets are reasonably priced and can be purchased by calling 941-953-3434 or SarasotaOrchestra.org/festival, where you will also find a full schedule of concerts and events.

I read this morning that consideration of Payne Park as a home for Sarasota Orchestra is dead.  Too many objections from those living in and near using the Park to overcome, and  so another viable location is gone.  Many years ago, Benderson at UTC offered land for a home along with a substantial  cash donation, only to be turned down.

Hard to envision our wonderful Orchestra continuing to grow at its current Holley Hall location.   Eventually a move will have to come as new construction at the Quay will make a move mandatory.

As Selby Gardens continues along their path of expansion,  homes within the vicinity of Selby have posters posted opposing the plans.  The roof-top restaurant with Michael's On East sounds like it should be a good addition to our dining options.


This weekend marks the beginning of summer movie releases with Aladdin the first of what promises to be an active season.  I am really looking forward to next week when Rocketman opens in several theatres throughout Sarasota.  

A biopic of Sir Elton John, Rocketman earned rave reviews in Cannes at the recent Cannes Film Festival,  and generated enthusiastic reviews after last weekend's sold out preview showings.  Whether it achieves the popularity of last winter's Bohemian Rhapsody remains to be seen.  

Only a few more days until SAVOR SARASOTA begins all across Sarasota County.

Many of your favorite restaurants are participating offering 3 course lunch for $16 and $32 dinner.  Running for 2 weeks, though many restaurants extend way beyond June.  For a list of restaurants go to SavorSarasota.com  or watch for their ad in this weekend's paper.

This week's TICKET (available around Sarasota) feature article lists the best burgers in town; noticeably missing is Hyde Park.  Also, one of their feature articles is about a Southside Village restaurant reviewed here a few weeks ago.  Origin is holding a Craft Beer Festival June 2, and food critic Jimmy Gourts took a well-reviewed visit.   Sounds like a fun neighborhood event.













JIM'S RANT....The nonprofit SANCA which operates Nathan Benderson Park recently received approval of financing for next year.  Money well spent, as the Park and tourism surrounding it continues to grow.  Just this week the Park was chosen as sight of 2020 US Olympic Paralympic Team Trials for rowing.   Just one more example of why this venue needs budget approval for several years, not just one......Have a great holiday and I'll see you next week...JIM

Sarasota st Sunset

MAY 19. 2019

MOM TAKES A BACKSEAT THIS WEEKEND AS SPORTS RULES........

Tiger in Happier Days

We'll have to wait for US OPEN next month for another look at TIGER and the many fans who follow him.  This week they're following Brooks Kopeka who leads by 7 strokes as I write this.

Lots of restaurant news this week.  On Thursday,  after months of renovation, LIBBY's reopened for your pleasure.  Both the Herald and Observer  went to a preview and came away with raves.  I plan to go next week and give you my take.


Not so good news from UTC where two of their original restaurants are in trouble.  Kona Grille recently filed for bankruptcy and faces an uncertain future while remaining open. 

 Burger & Beer Joint, in same area as Kona, has been evicted after failure to pay rent for several months.   A new tenant is due to be announced soon.

 Lots of similar menus from so many restaurants makes it hard to compete unless the product is excellent; see The Grove, Patrick's, Umbrella's, Classico, Burger FI.........

SAVOR SARASOTA is only weeks away, but you can find your favorite restaurant's menu on line.  The dates are 6/1-14, but already The Rosemary and Capital Grille have extended through June and probably further into the summer.  If you want an early sampling, The Rosemary is starting Savor 5/28!

For those of you who are unfamiliar with SAVOR SARASOTA, most of our popular restaurants offer a price fixe menu $16 for lunch and $32 dinner.  Generally there are three courses.  Some more generous than others, but wherever you go, this is as good as it gets around here for dining value.

There's a first for everything, and last week flew ALLEGIANT AIR for the first time. 

Two flights; first St. Pete-Clearwater, then Syracuse.  Will definitely fly this airline again, though if possible out of SRQ.  Nothing wrong with St. Pete; just the travel time back and forth.


Low cost they're not, as base price does not include cost of carry-on or checked baggage.  AND, if you want a "wider" seat, that's an additional cost.  Service was what you'd expect; the planes were clean; the crew, especially on our flight back to St. Pete, took their PA announcements to a level of entertainment.  Bottom line, we all should be happy SRQ is becoming more viable every day.

Roberta, Scott, ADAM, Cathi. Jason, Jim

Syracuse was a treat because we celebrated our grandson Adam's graduation from Syracuse College of Arts and Sciences .  We're spoiled though, as cold and rain do not go well with our thinning blood.  Great meals with family made for a most enjoyable weekend.


The next to last  big production of 2019 is coming to a close.  Playing until 6/1, SWEENEY TODD, has generated the type of reviews every production craves: good word of mouth.  The TV and print reviews from a few weeks ago were very positive, but those coming from friends are even more so.  This Broadway standard farce and slapstick will make you laugh at a time we need laughter in our country.


Tickets are available for most performances; even last minute at box-office 5555 N. Tamiami Trail.  You can call 941-351-8000 or go to asolorep.org.  Tickets anywhere from $15-$50, but this relatively small theatre doesn't have a bad seat in the house.  Some weekend performances even offer discount tickets.

The Crowds at Recent Craft Festival

If you thought end of season marked the end of the Craft Festival season, no way.  This weekend's Downtown Sarasota Craft Festival ends tonight at Five Points Park.  But if you're reading this during the week, you can mark your calender for 5/24-26, as Saint Armands Seafood & Music Festival takes over the Circle next weekend.


On May 25, The Van Wezel hosts a new event SRQ MARGARITA FESTIVAL.  Combining tequila, at least 12 types margaritas, bands and singers, food trucks and 'games" this promises to be a festival not to be missed.  VIP tickets can be purchased that include open bar, reserved parking, shaded public area, air-conditioned lounge areas, and catered food.  No One under 21 admitted!

Tickets on sale at Van Wezel or Srqmargaritafest.com.  Be prepared for a long and tiring day as festivities, along with food and drink, kick off at 2 and last until 10 or the last margarita has been served.  

Of the dozens of restaurant openings these past few years, CONNORS Steak&Seafood,  is definitely in the top tier.  Located on the south end of Westfield Siesta Mall where parking is literally curbside.

Mouth Watering

 Steak and Seafood are their specialties; however their lunch salads are comparable to anyone here.  My group each had their grilled chicken chopped salad.  No one finished and we had enough to take home for a late afternoon snack. 

Prices are reasonable; the noise volume under control; service quick and efficient.  AND, on the way out we stopped at the dessert station, and hesitated long enough to smell, but will wait on one of those until a dinner.
Call 941-260 3232 for reservations.


JIM'S RANT......Sarasota Orchestra is looking for a new home.  Having out-grown Holley Hall years ago, it it time to move on.  Most recently  Director Joe McKenna has floated the idea of a campus in Payne Park.  To me this is the perfect location;  lots of room for construction, parking strolling, and growth.  Sarasota Orchestra needs to remain within the city of its name.........Have a great week.  I'll see you next Sunday.......JIM

MAY 12, 2019

MOTHER'S OF ALL AGES.....THIS IS YOUR DAY TO BE PAMPERED...LOVED...AND...FINALLY......APPRECIATED.....ENJOY

So many restaurants to choose from for this special day.  Tough to get your favorite time to dine at this late date, but if out or at home enjoy the day.  MOTHERS, You Deserve it!!!

Not really for Mother's Day, but most any other day, made a new PIZZA discovery, and wonder why it took me so long.  ORIGIN on Hillview in the same center with Pacific Rim, is small for eat in, but large for carry-out or delivery.  This is one food item that can be found on most street corners, but somehow ORIGIN tastes better.


Among several salad choices, we had the house, which is chopped and includes all sorts of veggies.  At $9, easily shared by two.  In addition, their menu has wings, Stromboli, veggie quinoa enchilada, desserts.  There is also a wide selection of craft beer.

Open daily from 11 am at 1837 Hillside 941-316-9222.  Both Bite Squad and Uber Eats deliver.  Their menu is on-line.

FST was first out of the gate with their Summer season announcement.   Three shows on the Main stage and three in the Cabaret.  Season subscriptions are reasonable and as I've told you time and again, the best value is book either or both series.  Music is the theme for FST, as the Marvelous Wonderettes kicks off their season the end of this month.  Called a "jukebox musical" when it debuted years ago, it features classics from the 50's and 60's.

Entrance to FST

Come Together is the first Cabaret show and features music from the 60's into the 70's.  Artists still popular today provide most of the music..Cher, John Lennon and Neil Diamond among them.

You can purchase a series for as little as $49 by calling 941-366-9000; going on line at floridastudiotheatre.org or stopping by at boxoffice 1241 N. Palm Ave.

You have to feel for the owners of Westfield Siesta Key.  Since the opening of

Westfield Siesta Key

UTC along with several stores and restaurants in that area, their interior businesses have mostly fled, leaving Macy's, Cine Bistro, Bravo, Too Jay's, Connors, Lucky's Market and L.A. Fitness to fill the void. 

But help is on the way as well-known local realtor Ian Black has been anointed to re-create their interior.  With more and more shopping done on-line, it will be interesting to see what Black has up his sleeve to entice people to fill the empty store fronts.  Black sights the mall's prime location, along with the lure of current successful operations as necessary ingredients to begin the process.

Spent an afternoon 

Setimis Has Many Flavors

 shopping and dining on St. Armands Circle last week.  This area continues to attract crowds of shoppers, diners and sight-seers.  It's always fun to watch our visitors, especially those trying to figure out the new parking meters on nearly every corner. Once you get the hang of it, it's pretty simple.  After lunch at Dry Dock, what better place for dessert than Setimis Gelato.   Too many flavors to mention, but before you buy, sample some and make a choice.  


This weekend's Women Rock outdoor concert along with fireworks is being followed next weekend by a totally different style of rhythm and sound.  Nate Jacobs is bringing members of his WESTCOAST BLACK THEATRE TROUPE to Ed Smith Stadium for a '70's SOUL PARTY. 

Lively music with a definite urban beat performed by Nate and members of his ever expanding cast.   All this and fireworks to top off the evening.  Food is also available at the ball park.

Tickets start at $15 and are available at Ed Smith Stadium, 941-893-6300 or orioles.com/WBTT. 

Taking our first trip on ALLEGIANT this weekend.  Unfortunately not out of SRQ, but St. Petersburg Airport. The fares are low, but the add-ons! ridiculous.   However, if you don't want to be bothered at check-in, and want to save a few bucks, those extras are best purchased on line.   Much more next week.

JIM'S RANT.....After opening Wednesday's Sarasota Herald Tribune, I felt something was missing.  Missing was not only content, but the many circulars distributed on a daily basis.  
With season officially over, advertising inserts which make up the bulk of the paper have been cut drastically.  I don't know if that's good or bad, I do know if you want to catch up on local news, ABC7, SNN, or any Observer paper has more than the Herald........JIM....See you next week......