Local Event
FULL LIST OF RESTURANTS CAN BE FOUND HERE V-V Welcome to "Tasting the City - Sarasota Food Tasting Event," a culinary extravaganza celebrating Sarasota's vibrant food scene. Join us for a day filled with exploring local resturants through delectable bites, live entertainment, enter live giveaways and more!
️ Discover signature menu items from Sarasota's finest restaurants and hidden gems.
Enjoy live music performances and captivating entertainment throughout the evening by: TBD
Stay tuned for announcements of our featured chefs, culinary experts, and special guests by heading to our community page
Enter live giveaways to explore and support local business
️Portion of the proceeds will help benefit F.E.L.T
Live Auction for a TBD 100% of Proceeds will benefit F.E.L.T
Mark your calendars:
Date: Monday, June 15th 2026
Time: 5:30 to 8:00 PM
Location: BMW of Sarasota - 5151 Clark Rd, Sarasota, FL 34233
Parking: Complimentary valet powered by BMW of Sarasota
Tickets increase in price by $10 every Monday.
Join us in supporting Sarasota's culinary community and uncovering the city's most tantalizing flavors. Get ready to embark on a memorable gastronomic journey at "Tasting the City - Sarasota Food Tasting Event." Reserve your spot now!
Questions or ideas: Call Gianna 941-266-9657
Get ready to meet the STARS of our event. Each of these locally owned restaurants will bring a sampling of their famous bits in hope that you will visit with them and set up a reservation! From Classic Deli Favorites To Fine Italian Dining!
Bella Vita Italian Kitchen - Authentic Italian Comfort with Family Tradition
Rich, comforting, and made with heart. Bella Vita Italian Kitchen brings the warmth of a true Italian family dining experience to Sarasota with dishes inspired by tradition, generous portions, and homemade flavor. At Tasting the City, guests can enjoy featured samples of their creamy Pasta Alla Vodka and handcrafted meatballs classic Italian favorites thoughtfully prepared with fresh ingredients and bold flavor.
From comforting pasta dishes to unforgettable family recipes, every plate at Bella Vita is designed to make guests feel right at home.
By The Bay Bistro -
Chicken Salad Chick - Southern Comfort with a Fresh Twist
Fresh, flavorful, and made with heart. Chicken Salad Chick brings a modern take on Southern comfort food to Sarasota with recipes that feel both nostalgic and refreshing. At Tasting the City, guests can expect a selection of their signature chicken salads and café favorites thoughtfully prepared with quality ingredients and crave-worthy flavor combinations.
Clayton’s Siesta Grille – Coastal American Dining
Clayton’s Siesta Grille is a longtime local favorite known for fresh flavors, welcoming hospitality, and elevated coastal-inspired cuisine just minutes from Siesta Key Beach. At Tasting the City, guests can expect thoughtfully prepared bites that blend comfort, freshness, and the relaxed charm of Florida dining at its best.
Every dish feels like a sunset dinner near the water familiar, flavorful, and made to be enjoyed slowly.
Comida - Elevated Latin American Cuisine
Bold, vibrant, and full of flavor. Comida brings the soul of Latin America to Sarasota with dishes that are both comforting and unexpected. At Tasting the City, guests can expect a selection of their signature Latin-inspired creations thoughtfully crafted with fresh ingredients and a modern twist.
Every bite is layered, intentional, and designed to leave an impression.
Crepetopia – Bold Desserts & Sweet Escapes
Playful, indulgent, and full of flavor. Crepetopia brings a fresh, global twist to dessert with creations that are both nostalgic and unexpected. At Tasting the City, guests can expect a selection of their signature sweets from dreamy, made-to-order crepes to over-the-top milkshakes and Dubai-inspired treats.
Every bite is rich, creative, and designed to leave a lasting impression.
Daiquiri Deck – Tropical Drinks & Gulf Coast FavoritesDaiquiri Deck is a Sarasota staple known for its laid-back beach atmosphere, frozen daiquiris, fresh seafood, and vibrant island energy. At Tasting the City, guests can expect flavorful coastal-inspired bites and the fun, carefree spirit that has made Daiquiri Deck a favorite gathering spot for locals and visitors alike.It’s the kind of experience that instantly feels like vacation where the flavors are bold, the energy is contagious, and every moment feels a little more tropical.
Dog Bar Sarasota - Laid-Back Bites, Cocktails & Community
Fun, flavorful, and full of Sarasota energy. Dog Bar Sarasota blends great food, craft drinks, and a unique social atmosphere into one unforgettable experience. Known as a local favorite gathering spot for both people and pups, Dog Bar brings a relaxed vibe and elevated comfort food to the community.
At Tasting the City, guests can enjoy their featured French Dip a savory, satisfying classic packed with bold flavor and perfectly paired with the welcoming atmosphere Dog Bar is known for. Whether you’re stopping by for the food, the fun, or the community connection, this is one experience you won’t want to miss.
El Toro Bravo | Authentic Mexican Flavor & Bold Fiesta Favorites
Get ready to experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico with El Toro Bravo at Tasting the City. Known for their authentic dishes, festive atmosphere, and crowd-favorite specialties, El Toro Bravo brings bold flavor and fresh ingredients together in every bite.
Guests will get to enjoy their featured sample — delicious mini chimichangas packed with savory flavor and crispy perfection. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Mexican cuisine or simply looking for your next favorite bite, this is one stop guaranteed to bring the flavor and energy of a true fiesta.
French Atelier – French Pastries & Café
French Atelier brings a refined taste of France to Venice with handcrafted pastries, elegant desserts, and café favorites inspired by authentic French tradition. At Tasting the City, guests can expect beautifully prepared bites layered with buttery richness, delicate texture, and the kind of attention to detail that turns dessert into an experience.
Every bite feels like a quiet escape to a Parisian café sophisticated, comforting, and impossible to forget.
Heidi's Schnitzel Kitchen - Authentic German Cuisine
Golden, crispy, and done right. Heidi’s Schnitzel Kitchen brings authentic German comfort food to the spotlight. At Tasting the City, guests can enjoy a taste of their traditional German specialties hearty, flavorful, and rooted in old-world recipes.
One bite, and you’ll understand why this is comfort food at its finest.
Kacey’s Seafood & More - Fresh Coastal Flavor Done Right
Fresh, flavorful, and straight from the coast. Kacey’s Seafood & More brings a true seafood experience to Sarasota with dishes that highlight quality ingredients, bold flavor, and a passion for fresh seafood. At Tasting the City, guests can enjoy featured samples including fresh Ahi Tuna and classic Shrimp Cocktail beautifully prepared and packed with coastal flavor.
From light and refreshing bites to seafood favorites that keep guests coming back, Kacey’s delivers a taste of the ocean with every bite. Whether you’re a lifelong seafood lover or simply looking to discover something fresh and unforgettable, this is one stop you won’t want to miss.
Linger lodge - Old Florida Fare
A true Florida icon, Linger Lodge brings bold character and unforgettable flavor to Tasting the City. Known for its one-of-a-kind atmosphere and adventurous menu, guests can expect a taste of their signature Old Florida fare ... unique, flavorful, and full of local flair.
This is where curiosity meets comfort… and maybe a little wild side.
Michelle’s Brown Bag Café | Homestyle Café Eats
A beloved local staple, Michelle’s Brown Bag Café has been serving up comforting, homestyle favorites for over 25 years. At Tasting the City, guests can enjoy their signature samples like: tarragon chicken salad a timeless classic that’s been winning hearts for decades. Take a bite and experience why this Sarasota favorite keeps people coming back again and again. Visit: https://michellesbrownbagcafe.com
Mila Mocha Café – Coffee, Brunch & Café Favorites
Mila & Mocha Café is a family-owned cafe in Venice, Florida, known for its high-quality, scratch-made breakfast, lunch, and desserts, with a focus on fresh ingredients and European-inspired recipes. They offer specialty coffees, smoothies, sandwiches, salads, and baked goods like tarts, cheesecakes, and pies, serving a modern and inviting space for locals and visitors.
Paris Bistrot – French Bistro Cuisine
Paris Bistrot brings the charm and elegance of a classic French bistro to Lakewood Ranch with rich flavors, elevated dishes, and an atmosphere inspired by the cafés of Paris. At Tasting the City, guests can expect thoughtfully crafted French-inspired bites that balance comfort, sophistication, and authentic culinary tradition.
It’s the kind of experience that feels effortlessly romantic where every flavor invites you to slow down and savor the moment.
Pascone's Ristorante' – Fine Italian Dining
Where tradition meets elevated flavor, Pascone’s Ristorante brings authentic Italian cuisine with a refined twist. At Tasting the City, guests can expect a selection of their signature Italian favorites.. handcrafted, comforting, and full of old-world charm.
Every bite feels like it was made with intention… because it is.
Ronchini Food - Bagels, Donuts & Italian Coffee
From authentic New York–style bagels to handmade donuts and rich Italian espresso, Ronchini Food brings the ultimate café experience to Tasting the City. Guests can expect a selection of their signature favorites fresh, flavorful, and crafted to satisfy every craving.
Whether you’re here for something sweet, savory, or that perfect coffee moment… this is a stop you won’t want to miss. A little taste of New York, right here in Sarasota.
Rosemary & Thyme - Elevated Coastal Cuisine with a Creative Twist
Fresh, vibrant, and beautifully crafted. Rosemary & Thyme brings an elevated dining experience to downtown Sarasota with dishes that blend coastal flavor, culinary creativity, and refined presentation. At Tasting the City, guests can enjoy their featured sample — a flavorful tuna wonton thoughtfully prepared with fresh ingredients and a modern touch.
Stottlemyer's Smokehouse - Southern BBQ
Voted Best BBQ 2025, Stottlemyer’s Smokehouse is serving up bold, smoky flavors that have earned a serious local following. At Tasting the City, guests can expect a selection of their signature BBQ favorites slow-smoked, sauced just right, and packed with Southern comfort.
This is the kind of flavor you smell before you even see it… and remember long after the last bite.
The Original Wolfie’s – Chicago Street Food Classics
The Original Wolfie’s brings authentic Chicago-style flavor to the Gulf Coast with iconic street food favorites packed with bold taste and hometown nostalgia. At Tasting the City, guests can expect classic comfort foods done right from loaded dogs to savory bites that deliver the unmistakable energy of a true Chicago eatery. It’s the kind of food that’s messy in the best way, unforgettable after the first bite, and guaranteed to keep people coming back for more.
The Dough Forge - Artisan Pizza Fired with Flavor
Bold, handcrafted, and built from the perfect dough up. The Dough Forge brings artisan-style pizza to Sarasota with fresh ingredients, creative flavor combinations, and a passion for authentic pizza-making. At Tasting the City, guests can enjoy their featured sample — pizza topped with savory sausage, peppers, and onions, baked to perfection and packed with flavor in every bite.
From the crispy crust to the perfectly balanced toppings, every slice is thoughtfully crafted to deliver a true pizza experience that’s comforting, flavorful, and unforgettable.
Tuscany Plaza – Italian Cuisine & Market Experience
Tuscany Plaza brings the warmth of Italy to Nokomis with authentic flavors, imported specialties, and a dining experience rooted in tradition and hospitality. At Tasting the City, guests can expect rich Italian-inspired bites crafted with comforting flavors, fresh ingredients, and the kind of passion that turns a meal into a gathering. It’s the taste of old-world tradition served with warmth, conversation, and a little bit of Italian soul.
Raining Berries
AND MORE!
Would you like to showcase your brand during Tasting The City. Set up an experience or showcase exhibit. Note that cost will increase in price by $25 Bi-weekly on Monday or untill sell out.
Meet the Makers, Movers & Shakers - COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT:
We’re proud to feature an amazing lineup of local businesses across a wide variety of industries from finance to fashion, wellness to home design. Come connect, support, and shop local while enjoying an unforgettable night of food and fun!
LG Kramer Flooring | Flooring & Design
From high-end custom projects to small repairs projects, LG Kramer Flooring offers full services experiences. Providing our cusotmers with conviences and trusted flooring products, design services and certified installations across Sarasota and Manatee counties. Whether you’re planning a full renovation or just need expert advice, Make an appointments to chat with our team.
Frosted Pink | Gourmet Cupcakes & Sweet Treats
Frosted Pink is known for creating beautifully crafted desserts that are as eye-catching as they are delicious. At Tasting the City, guests can expect indulgent sweet treats layered with rich flavor, playful creativity, and the kind of handcrafted detail that instantly brings out your inner child.
Every bite feels celebratory, nostalgic, and just a little bit magical.
The Women’s Center | Women’s Health & Wellness
The Women’s Center is dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care for women at every stage of life. From gynecology and wellness services to aesthetic treatments and advanced care, their expert team offers personalized support in a welcoming, nurturing environment. Empowering women to feel their best...inside and out. ️ Visit: thewomenscentercts.com
SRQTERIE | Artisan Charcuterie Experiences
SRQTERIE transforms charcuterie into an art form with beautifully curated boards designed to bring people together through flavor, presentation, and experience. At Tasting the City, guests can enjoy a sample of her artisan charcuterie creations featuring premium meats, cheeses, and thoughtfully paired accompaniments and if they fall in love with the experience, guests will also have the opportunity to purchase curated boxes to take home.
Every board feels elevated, social, and crafted for the kind of moments people gather around and remember.
Kranenburg Painting | Residential & Commercial Painting
Known for quality craftsmanship and attention to detail, Kranenburg Painting has been transforming homes and businesses across Sarasota and surrounding areas with precision and care. At Tasting the City, they’re bringing a an experience for you to explore how elevate your space with expert-level finishes. From interior refreshes to full exterior makeovers, this is the team that turns vision into reality.
Jamila Confections | Luxury Artisan Desserts
Elegant, handcrafted, and impossible to forget. Jamila Confections creates elevated desserts that blend artistry with indulgence. At Tasting the City, guests can experience beautifully crafted sweet creations designed to delight every sense with rich flavors, refined presentation, and thoughtful detail. From decadent treats to luxurious bites, every creation is made to feel like a special occasion.
Revive Wellness & Aesthetics – Wellness, Hydration & Recovery
Revive Wellness & Aesthetics is dedicated to helping people look and feel their best through modern wellness, hydration, and recovery experiences designed to support both beauty and overall well-being. At Tasting the City, guests can learn more about revitalizing services focused on energy, recovery, hydration, and self-care while connecting with a team passionate about helping the community thrive from the inside out.
It’s wellness designed for real life helping you recharge, refresh, and show up as your best self.
All American Gutter Protection – Gutter Protection & Home Solutions
All American Gutter Protection helps homeowners protect their investment with gutter solutions designed to reduce maintenance, improve drainage, and defend homes from costly water damage. At Tasting the City, guests can learn more about innovative gutter protection systems built to keep homes cleaner, safer, and functioning properly through every season.
It’s the kind of upgrade homeowners don’t realize they need until they experience the peace of mind that comes with it.
Sirard’s Chocolate | Sarasota Seafoam & Handcrafted Chocolate Treats
Indulge your sweet tooth with Sirard’s Chocolate — bringing handcrafted chocolate creations and their signature Sarasota Seafoam to Tasting the City. Guests can enjoy a decadent selection of chocolate-dipped favorites including pretzels, Oreos, and rich chocolate truffles, all beautifully crafted to satisfy every dessert lover.
From salty-sweet bites to melt-in-your-mouth chocolate creations, this is the perfect stop for anyone craving something indulgent, nostalgic, and unforgettable. One taste, and you’ll understand why these handcrafted treats keep people coming back for more.
Quantum Wellness Center Sarasota | Advanced Wellness & Regenerative Therapies
Step into the future of wellness with The Quantum Wellness Center Sarasota where cutting-edge technology, neuroscience, and luxury wellness experiences come together under physician-led care. From Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy and IV Vitamin Therapy to the innovative Theta Chamber and RAIN Therapy, every experience is designed to help guests restore balance, optimize recovery, and elevate mind-body performance.
Located in the heart of Sarasota and led by board-certified neurosurgeon Dr. Darlene A. Lobel, Quantum Wellness Center offers a personalized, high-end approach to healing, recovery, detoxification, stress reduction, and cognitive wellness. Whether you’re focused on longevity, energy, mental clarity, or total-body restoration, this is wellness reimagined.
Holly Dennis Interiors | Luxury Interior Design & Hospitality Spaces
From elevated residential interiors to sophisticated hospitality environments, Holly Dennis Interiors brings timeless design, thoughtful detail, and luxury living to life throughout Sarasota and beyond. Known for creating spaces that feel both refined and deeply personal, Holly Dennis blends functionality, comfort, and high-end aesthetics into every project.
Scout & Molly’s Lakewood Ranch - Curated Fashion with a Personal Touch
Get ready to shop Chic, stylish, and effortlessly elevated style. Scout & Molly’s Lakewood Ranch brings a luxury boutique experience to the Sarasota area with hand-selected fashion, statement accessories, and personalized styling designed to help every woman define her own style. At Tasting the City, guests can connect with a brand known for blending on-trend fashion with a welcoming, community-centered shopping experience.
From standout pieces to everyday essentials, Scout & Molly’s offers a thoughtfully curated collection that makes fashion feel fun, approachable, and confidence-boosting. Whether you’re refreshing your wardrobe or searching for that perfect statement look, this is a boutique experience you’ll want to discover.
RMI Med Spa - Advanced Aesthetics, Wellness & Rejuvenation
Modern, luxurious, and focused on helping you feel your absolute best. RMI Med Spa brings advanced aesthetic treatments, wellness therapies, and personalized care to Sarasota in a relaxing, high-end environment. From rejuvenating facials and injectables to IV therapy and wellness-focused treatments, every service is thoughtfully designed to refresh, restore, and elevate confidence.
At Tasting the City, guests will have the opportunity to connect with a brand known for combining beauty, wellness, and self-care through state-of-the-art treatments and individualized experiences. Whether your focus is glowing skin, anti-aging, wellness, or total rejuvenation, RMI Med Spa offers a modern approach to looking and feeling your best.
BEVERAGE SPOTLIGHT:
Catch A Buzz Events | Mobile Bartending & Beverage Service
Catch A Buzz Events brings the party to you with full-service mobile bartending and event staffing. At this event, they’ll be shaking up three signature cocktails including the fan-favorites Loaded Cannon and Metagave, plus a surprise drink to be revealed! Get ready for bold flavors, creative twists, and a sip-worthy experience you won’t forget. Visit: www.catchabuzzevents.com
NOM Catering - Mobile Coffee Bar
Bringing the energy to Tasting the City, NOM Catering serves up a mobile coffee experience you won’t want to miss. Guests can enjoy samples of their viral-crafted espresso drinks, lattes, and cold brews. Smooth, bold, and made to impress.
Love what you taste? Full-size favorites will be available to keep the experience going.
Loaded Cannon Distillery – Craft Spirits & Cocktails
Proudly local and award-winning, Loaded Cannon Distillery brings bold, small-batch spirits to the spotlight. At Tasting the City, guests can experience a taste of their handcrafted favorites. Rich, smooth, and full of character.
Siesta Key Wine Bar – Wine Bar & Tastings
Siesta Key Wine Bar offers a relaxed yet elevated experience where curated wines, flavorful small plates, and coastal charm come together effortlessly. At Tasting the City, guests can expect thoughtfully paired bites and sip-worthy selections designed to spark conversation, connection, and a true taste of the Gulf Coast lifestyle. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to linger a little longer one glass, one bite, and one unforgettable moment at a time.
Flobucha | Premium Raw Kombucha Fermented to Perfection
Experience one of Sarasota’s most unique wellness-inspired beverage brands at Tasting the City. Flobucha crafts premium raw kombucha using traditional brewing methods, organic ingredients, and extended fermentation to create bold, refreshing flavors packed with natural probiotics and vibrant taste.
Guests can expect a refreshing lineup of handcrafted kombucha flavors that are crisp, flavorful, and unlike anything store-bought. From fruity blends like Passionfruit Orange Guava to herb-infused favorites like Blueberry Basil, every pour is brewed locally in Sarasota with wellness, community, and quality at the center.
Whether you’re a kombucha lover or trying it for the first time, this is the perfect stop to sip something fresh, functional, and unforgettable.
Beneficiary Spotlight: Feeding Empty Little Tummies (F.E.L.T.)
Feeding Empty Little Tummies (F.E.L.T.) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to supporting Manatee County’s most vulnerable children providing nutritious meals to homeless and food-insecure students, one backpack at a time.
What started in 2010 with just three schools has grown into a powerful community effort. Today, F.E.L.T. serves 58 schools and over 1,600 children, ensuring that students facing unimaginable challenges still have access to food when they need it most.
Behind every backpack is a child who may be living in a motel, a car, a shelter or simply without consistent access to meals. F.E.L.T. steps in quietly, consistently, and compassionately to make sure they’re not forgotten.
This is more than food. It’s dignity, stability, and care during some of life’s hardest moments.
When you attend Tasting the City, you’re not just indulging in incredible food. You’re part of something meaningful. A portion of every ticket is donated directly to F.E.L.T., supporting children in our community. Stay tuned to our Facebook page as we reveal more ways to make an impact.
Tasting the City is Brought To You By Your Hosts:
Out & About Sarasota With Tyler Butler - Sarasota's Premier Show on everything Sarasota and Beyond! From your favorite local spots to exploring restaurants. Tyler gives you the scoop on Sarasota!
Marketing on Main - a quartley event that brings professionals and business owners togethers to not just talk business but to touch, taste, and experience it first hand! Check out up coming events by clicking HERE! ALL are welcome that are creating a positive difference!
BMW of Sarasota - Tampa Bay’s Premier BMW Destination
Experience automotive excellence at its finest. BMW of Sarasota is proud to host this year’s Tasting the City event, where luxury meets community. As Tampa’s top destination for performance, innovation, and timeless design, we invite you to discover why drivers across Florida choose the Ultimate Driving Machine—and why our venue is the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable evening.
Photographer - TBD & applications open
Suggestions & Questions: Call Gianna at 941-266-9657
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