It’s On the Beach This Month
By Ned Steele
ebruary brings the warmth of Valentine’s Day, school vacations, and a break from the cold for northern snowbirds, making Siesta Key and Siesta Beach a bustling hub of activity. With a lineup of exciting events, visitors are sure to find something
“Say I Do Again” leads the charge as the annual nondenominational vow renewal ceremony on the beach on Feb. 14. (Check out the full story elsewhere in this issue.)
Another signature event, Sunrise Beach Walks, kicks off on Feb. 5 and continues every Wednesday through March 27. This fitness-focused morning walk is organized by Sarasota County and offers a great way to start the day with a bit of
Iexercise. Registration is available by the main pavilion from 8 to 9:30 a.m. for a one-time fee of $5. Participants receive a punch card and can earn a beautiful T-shirt after completing four walks. Most walkers head south toward the open beach, covering at least a mile. Whether walking solo, in pairs, or in groups, it’s the steps that count. Health-related information will also be available, covering topics like healthy aging, balance, smoking cessation, and proper hydration.
For those who might miss a few walks, fear not. You can still earn your T-shirt by joining the same program at Nokomis Beach on Thursday mornings throughout February and March.
In March, engage your mind with Beach University, a coastal
environmental education series held each Thursday from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Experts will present on vital environmental issues affecting the area. While the final schedule is pending, past topics have included manatee protection, sea turtle conservation, land management, and the role of sharks in the ecosystem.
For those looking to indulge, the Sun Deck refreshment stand is back in full swing, with its dumbwaiter replaced and a menu that extends beyond typical beach fare.
Additionally, Turtle Beach on the south end of Siesta Key is open after recovering from storm damage. It offers a more relaxed atmosphere compared to Siesta
Fishing With CB’s: It’s All About the Fun
f you’ve hung up the “Gone Fishing” sign up north and headed down to Siesta Key for a vacation, why not try actual fishing on a boat? The folks at CB’s Saltwater Outfitters make it easy for anyone—even complete newbies— to charter a captained boat for a morning or afternoon of one of humankind’s oldest pursuits.
While they can’t legally guarantee a catch, it’s pretty hard not to land a few fish under the guidance of one of CB’s nine experienced fishing guides. Just as visitors are flocking to the key this month, it’s prime fishing season: pompano, sea trout, sheepshead, and more are plentiful.
For seasoned anglers, the guides will take you to the best spots, leveraging years of local knowledge. If you’re new
to fishing, you’re in luck. Your captain will teach you the basics and lead you to the same spots the pros frequent. “In four hours, they’ll teach you how to do it the right way,” says CB’s Manager, Doug Forde.
CBs specializes in bay fishing, which means you’ll be in calm, shallow waters, avoiding the livelier surf of the Gulf. The routes change constantly with the tides, wind, and fish habits. Typically, charters head north past the north bridge, showcasing stunning waterside homes along the key and beyond, some belonging to celebrities. Captains often provide a running commentary, and you might even spot a manatee or two.
On a recent sunny day, Captain Brandon Naeve, a 27-year veteran of the waters, took vacationing
By Ned Steele
Ron Rockovich from Pittsburgh, his son Aidan, and family friend Matt Gianetta out on his boat. Aidan, reminiscing about childhood fishing trips with his dad, persuaded Matt to join, despite Matt’s initial skepticism about boating. It didn’t take long for Matt to land several catches, including sea trout and ladyfish.
Aidan reeled in a pompano and a 16-inch sea trout, which he proudly declared would grow to 20 inches by the end of the day.
Captain Naeve filleted the catch, readying it for a delicious dinner at a nearby restaurant. The trio left with happy memories, which, as Naeve emphasizes, is the real catch: “It’s not all about how many fish you catch. It’s about having fun.”
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Matt Gianetta and Aidan Rockovitch show off the evening’s dinner at CB’s Saltwater Outfitters.
Fans at Munchie’s 420 Cafe live for the big football game days, when they can share the joy of winning and the agony of defeat.
H A P P Y H O U R M O N D A Y - T H U R S D A Y 3 : 0 0 P M T O 5 L I V E M U S L O C A T E D A T : S I E S T A K E Y B E A C H R E S O R T A N D S U I T E S 5 3 1 1 O C E A N B L V D . S A R A S O T A , F L 3 4 2 4 2
Arts on the Horizon By
Rodger Skidmore
Keeping warm
This has been a harsh winter: no snow but lots of arctic air. Sitting in an easy chair with our feet up in front of a fire sounds enchanting but not many fireplaces are in Sarasota, and huddling around a fire pit in the back yard is (to mix a metaphor rather than a cocktail) not my cup of tea.
A nice old-time cozy way of keeping warm is to wrap yourself in a quilt. So, the place to wrap your eyes around some (get this) Mid-Century Modern Astro-Futuristic quilts is at the Ringling Museum’s Community Gallery. This exhibition, on display through April 3, is presented by the South Sarasota Modern Quilt Guild. And besides “quilt”, “modern” is the operative word this year for what the guild has on display.
For centuries quilts were just squares and triangles of different colored fabrics stitched together. And for good reason: if a dress, shirt, and pair of pants were worn in many places, that was not a good enough reason for someone to throw them out. They just cut the good parts of the garment into little pieces, did a bit of mix and match and, voila, they had a new bed covering to keep themselves and a loved one toasty warm.
Question! What are you going to do during the next pandemic? Why not start cutting the good parts out of all your clothes that have gone out of fashion this week and save them for the next time you’re confined to your home. Home crafting–our new future.
“Catch of the day” is a catch phrase that does not apply to flying fish as they travel at up to 35 miles per hour and are extremely hard
to catch. Especially for fishermen in 1930’s Japan where, for some reason, they became a staple of decorative arts. These winged creatures started appearing on glass and metalwork objects, textiles, lacquerware and paper. Catch of the Day: Flying Fish from Japan will be exhibited in the Ringling’s Ting Tsung and Wei Fong Chao Gallery until April 6.
Clay. Clay is what people have been making into pots for thousands of years. You take a lump of soft clay and squeeze it around with your fingers or spin it and make the sides thinner and thinner until you have a pot, or a cup (small pot) or a plate (flattened pot). Not too thrilling. But when artists, instead of ordinary people take that lump of clay, instead of a pot there is a work of art. Those non-pots are what can be seen in Radical Clay: Contemporary Women Artists from Japan through May 11–also at the Ting Tsung and Wei Fong Chao Gallery.
Lively live music can also get the blood flowing through semi-frigid veins, and there is plenty of lively music between the 13th and 22nd of the month at the Historic Asolo Theatre.
There are certainly African influences in the music of Spanish speaking South America, but there are also Spanish influences in the music of the Spanish (along with French and Portuguese) speaking African country of Guinea. Nélida Karr plays guitar and sings in her version of Afro-Fusion which contains elements of jazz, blues, Spanish and Latin music with Guinean rhythms (Katya, Kotto, bonka, mokom and antonobe) on the 13th and 14th. While still at the Historic Asolo, the music moves into a more jazz tinged Middle Eastern mode with Amir Elsaffar and the 2 Rivers Ensemble on the 15th and 16th. This group had a standing ovation at the Newport Jazz Festival when they played their first song at that venue. Composer/vocalist Elsaffar plays the trumpet (with middle eastern microtones) and santur (a hammered dulcimer). Later, on the 21st and 22nd, the jazz gets hotter with the Alain Perez Quintet. Perez recorded with the original Chucho Valdéz Quartet on Blue Note records, back in the day. Lately he is a Grammy winner and nominee in multiple categories. More info on all the above at ringling.org.
How far does one have to travel to find oneself?
Edgar Rice Burroughs, author of the Tarzan jungle stories, also wrote a series about John Carter of Mars. The Mars of spaceman Carter was populated by luscious women wearing ripped bodices, and multifanged creatures that were apt to do the ripping. Fun for teenagers to read but, as we now know, not too realistic.
We’ve found that Mars is barren, cold, without a breathable atmosphere, and not enough gravity to keep any oxygen that is produced unless it is kept in a sealed container, like a bottle or a building. Most scientists believe that better explorative results can be achieved by sending robots to Mars than by sending humans. So, why go? For the same reason that people climb Mt. Everest (which is also barren, cold, and without a breathable atmosphere - but no one has seriously thought of colonizing the top of that mountain just because it is there).
In Leegrit Stevens’ play, Spaceman, the first person to try to reach Mars alive has failed (like, died) and his wife, who also trained as a spaceman, is on the second mission–alone. She will not be the first woman to reach Mars, but the first human, an achievement of a higher sort. And what does one do on such a long and pretty boring journey, which is totally controlled by robots and command central in Texas? Read a book? Nap? Hard to apply nail polish while in a spacesuit. How about, ask oneself questions about oneself, God, the future of humanity, and whether the Phillies will win the World Series? The answer to question number four is “no”, but the others are open ended and worth asking. Care to listen to the questions and answers? Yes? Then go see Spaceman, playing at the Urbanite Theatre until February 16. More info at urbanitetheatre.com.
The Orange Octopus, a beloved ice cream shop, has reopened after sustaining significant damage from Hurricanes Helene and Milton. Now operating from a new location next door to its original spot in Captain Curt’s Village, the shop is once again serving its popular array of ice cream flavors.
Known for its wide variety of flavors, Orange Octopus offers everything from classic options like Strawberry, Vanilla, Coffee, and Chocolate to unique choices such as Birthday Cake, Cotton Candy, Ooey Gooey
The Octopus Gets New Digs
By Jane Bartnett
Brownie, Mint Chocolate Chip, Gator Tracks, Mango Sorbet, and Toasted Coconut.
Customers can enjoy their ice cream in waffle cones, sugar cones (available in
ACCOMMODATIONS
Palms
Siesta Key Beach Resort & Spa Map-A #38A
/ BANKS
ATM
Sun Trust Bank & ATM
BARS & NIGHTCLUBS
Blase Café
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Gilligan’s
#38
My Village Pub Map-C #53/54
Siesta Key Oyster Bar Map-B #45
The Beach Club Map-D #22
The Cottage Map-C #58
The Hub-Baja Grill Map-D #59
COFFEE SHOPS
Bean Coffeehouse Map-D #62
Mojo Risin’ Coffee Company Map-B #31
Project Coffee.....................................Map-D #9
FASHION & ACCESSORIES
Beach Bazaar’s & Swin Shack Map-C #28
Blvd. Beachwear Map-B #30
Casa Smeralda Fashion’Style D #12-11
Comfort Shoes-Birki & More Map-D #64
Foxy Lady Fashions Map-A #40
Gidget’s Coastal Provisions Map-B #44
Island Boutique Map-B #50
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Lilly Pulitzer Map-D #66
Sandbar Swimwear............................Map-B #50
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Southern Tide.....................................Map-D #60
The Sandal Factory Map-B #46
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Indep. Lifestyle Solutions Map-D
small, medium, and or cups, with a variety toppings to customize treat. For those seeking something beyond the Orange Octopus also sundaes, milkshakes, nostalgic root beer floats. cream lovers can take favorite flavors home, pints and quarts available purchase.
During a recent visit, server at the newly reopened shop shared that business has been bustling, with both loyal regulars and customers excited to shop back in action. wonderful to see so familiar faces returning
Orange Octopus is back serving its popular ice cream. The store moved one door down from its original location in Captain Curt’s Village.
large), variety of customize their seeking the cone, also serves milkshakes, and floats. Ice take their home, with available for visit, a reopened business with and new to see the “It’s many returning and
new ones discovering us,” the server said.
With a five-star rating on TripAdvisor, Orange Octopus is a must-visit destination for anyone on Siesta Key.
The shop’s reputation for delicious, high-quality ice cream continues to draw crowds, making it a highlight of the local culinary scene.
The Orange Octopus Ice Cream shop is located at 1220 Old Stickney Point Road within Captain Curt’s Village and is open daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or a first-time visitor, the shop promises a delightful experience for all.
The Sarasota Physical 50 is a fitness challenge designed to push participants to their limits, testing strength, balance, endurance, agility, willpower, and athletic skill. Fifty of Sarasota’s top athletes will compete in a series of intense individual and team events.
The inaugural Physical 50 Challenge, hosted by The KôR, will take place on Feb. 22. Competitors will face off in a tournament-style format, with the goal of being crowned “Fittest in Sarasota.” The
MARKETS/FOOD STORES Circle K Store
Morton’s Siesta Market
of Light Massage
Spa at Calle Minorga
... the Little Day
MEDICAL - DENTAL
Siesta Village Dentistry Map-D #63
Siesta Dental
Siesta Key Physical Therapy
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Chamber of Commerce
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Siesta
Capt. Rick Grassett’s Fishing Report
CB’s Saltwater Outfitters (941) 923-7799
Trout and redfish should be excellent shallow-water options this month. You may also encounter trout along with blues, Spanish mackerel, pompano, and flounder on deep grass flats. Sheepshead, flounder, reds, and more can be found around docks. For those interested in catch-and-release snook fishing, lighted docks in the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) may provide good opportunities, if temperatures aren’t too cold. Since snook are temperature sensitive, I avoid targeting them after strong cold fronts when water temperatures drop below 60 degrees. However, I’ve enjoyed successful night trips catching and releasing snook on flies in the ICW during this time of year. With larger baitfish being scarce, snook feed heavily on glass minnows and shrimp. Small white flies, such as my Grassett Snook Minnow, along with DOA Shrimp (3” or 2-3/4”), DOA Tiny TerrorEyz, or CAL Jigs with shad tails and jerk worms, are effective choices. This month, snook can also be found in rivers, creeks, or canals. These areas are great alternatives on blustery days. In these spots, I prefer wider-profile flies and lures that match the available baitfish. Fly anglers should use wide-profile baitfish patterns, like Lefty’s Deceiver, on sink tip fly lines. Spin anglers can have success with CAL jigs, 4” swim baits, jerk worms, DOA Baitbusters, or suspending plugs. Target deeper spots, usually on outside bends, for the best action. Redfish are often found in potholes or along the edges of bars and shallow flats during low tide. As the tide rises, they move to feed on higher flats, especially on sunny afternoons. For reds in shallow water, I recommend 1/16-ounce CAL jigs with shad tails or jerk worms. If the area is too shallow or grassy, weedless hooks, such as Mustad or
Owner, can help you fish plastic baits effectively. Fly anglers should use lightly weighted flies like Clousers or my Grassett Flats Minnow with weed guards on floating lines with 10’-12’ leaders.
Big trout can also be found in shallow waters where reds are present. The same lures, flies, and techniques for reds work well for big trout. Note that spotted seatrout regulations in southwest Florida have changed to a 3 fish per person bag limit, with a 6 fish boat limit. Trout must measure 15”-19”, with one over 19” allowed per vessel. I release all over-slot trout, as they are usually females and important to the trout fishery’s health. Full regulations are available at https://myfwc.com/.
Trout are also common on deep grass flats. I prefer flats with a mix of grass and sand and good tidal flow. Flats near passes are often warmer and productive after fronts. Silted water can affect fishing in these areas. Other productive flats may be around points or bars. Drifting and casting ahead with CAL jigs, various plastic tails, DOA Deadly Combos, or weighted flies on sink tip lines can help locate trout. Once found, you can shorten your drift or anchor.
In addition to trout, blues, Spanish mackerel, flounder, or pompano may be found on deep grass flats depending on water temperature. The same techniques for trout apply, though pompano may reveal their presence by “skipping” on the surface. Set up a drift upwind when you spot them. Blues and Spanish mackerel may chase bait to the surface, and you may need heavier fluorocarbon or wire leaders when they mix with trout.
Fishing docks is another good option during low tide. Reds, sheepshead, or flounder can be found under docks, especially those in deeper water with good tidal flow. Focus on the end of long piers or docks with large boats, as these indicate deeper water. Older docks with barnacle and oyster growth attract more baitfish and predators. Use CAL jigs with shad tails, grubs, jerk worms, or weighted flies on sink
tip fly lines, ensuring your lure or fly reaches the bottom.
By the end of the month, the coastal gulf may see action from Spanish mackerel and cobia as they migrate north when water temperatures reach the high 60s to low 70s. Spanish mackerel can be found on the surface or in passes, while cobia may be near buoys, channel markers, crab trap floats, or over structures. Tripletail may also appear during warmer spells.
February can be a challenging month for fishing due to frequent fronts and cooler waters. Targeting favorable tides and weather conditions increases the chances of success. If the weather isn’t ideal, consider fishing later in the day when it’s warmer. Remember, our natural resources face ongoing pressure from red tides, pollution, and habitat loss. Please limit your kill and don’t kill your limit.
FEBRUARY 2025 TIDE CHART
When planning an event, whether it’s a wedding, corporate gathering, or an intimate dinner party, the food and drinks can leave a lasting impression. While large chains are an option, turning to local catering companies brings a distinctive touch and benefits the community in meaningful ways. Businesses like C+M Cocktail Co. and Big Water Fish Market showcase the creativity, quality, and personal service that local providers offer.
Why Choose Local?
1. Freshness and Quality: Local caterers often use ingredients from nearby producers, ensuring fresh, high-quality offerings. Big Water Fish Market in Siesta Key, known for its fresh, locally sourced seafood, delivers dishes like wild-caught grouper or shrimp from the Gulf, offering an unparalleled taste and quality.
Island Fishmonger
2. Customization and Personalization: Local caterers tailor their services to fit your needs. C+M Cocktail Co. curates every aspect of the bar experience, from handcrafted cocktails to personalized drink menus, adding a creative and sophisticated element to your event.
3. Community Support: Hiring local caterers reinvests in the community by creating jobs and sourcing local ingredients. Businesses like Big Water Fish Market and C+M Cocktail Co. also contribute to local initiatives, helping to strengthen the local economy.
4. Authenticity: Local businesses bring authenticity to your event. Big Water Fish Market offers a taste of coastal Florida with its fresh seafood, while C+M Cocktail Co. elevates the experience with innovative, expertly
crafted cocktails.
Planning Your Event with Local Caterers
• Start Early: Popular local caterers book quickly, so contact them as soon as your date is set.
• Discuss Your Vision: Share your theme, preferences, and budget. Local caterers excel at customizing their services to match your goals.
• Leverage Their Expertise: Local providers can recommend seasonal ingredients and pairings to enhance your event.
• Taste Before You Commit: Many offer tastings to ensure their offerings meet your expectations.
A Winning Combination Pairing the culinary expertise of Big Water Fish Market with the cocktail artistry of C+M Cocktail
Co. can create a memorable event. Whether it’s fresh Gulf oysters paired with a crisp gin cocktail or seafood paella with a bold bourbon drink, these local gems bring flavor, craftsmanship, and community spirit to your celebration. Choosing local caterers means not only enjoying delicious food and drinks but also supporting small businesses and celebrating the unique offerings of your community.
Keith McClintock, from IL,
trout on CAL jigs with grubs and shad tails while fishing Gasparilla Sound with Capt. Rick Grassett in a previous February.
Chelsea Malcolm showing off her mixologist skills. (Photo provided)
Arts
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Travel the world
On February 3 visit Spain, and on March 9, visit the world of Violin. You can visit both without leaving Sarasota, by going to the La Musica Festival presentations at the Riverview Performing Arts Center.
Many that listen to Latin music today are familiar with the artist Bad Bunny. That is music of the Americas, of today, while the music presented in the February concert series is timeless. Not old, not musty, but full of flavor (and desire). Obradors’ the Canciones Clásicas Españolas are not just classical, but are classic, and Arbós’ Tres piezas originales en estilo español are lyrical and, especially the Habanera, danceable.
The La Musica web page listing the works being performed for this concert has a link to a trio that is playing the closing number of this program, Turina’s Piano Concert No. 2 in B minor. Listen to the first few measures, they drip with sensuality. And the variety of the pieces by the other composers, Albéniz, de Falla, Sarasate, and Rodrigo, will take you from the opera house in Saville to the cafés of Madrid.
The March concert starts with Fauré’s Violin Sonata No. 1 in A major (lyrically French), and then crosses the ocean to America for a rendition of Hebraique Elegie for Two Violins, a composition by Amy Barlowe. Point your ears in any direction during this concert and you will hear dynamic and pleasing music from Spain, Norway, Germany, Poland, and Belgium. More info at lamusica.org.
If you talk to yourself, should you listen?
In 2023 there was a staged reading of Brent Askari’s current new play, Advice, at Florida Studio Theatre. This play, workshopped at both FST and Sacramento’s B St Theatre, is now open for business at FST’s Bowne’s Lab as part of their Stage III productions.
A nice couple, at home on their anniversary, have an uninvited guest, Gary, one of their friends. A bit clueless (a bit?) he doesn’t take the hint to leave, scram or disappear. Instead, he shares his good news. A self-help book that he’s written has been picked up for publication. Taken with himself and his apparent success, Gary wants to quit his job and become a life coach. To prove how good his advice is, Gary convinces Ron and Joy to try some of his “couple exercises”. For Ron and Joy, this is not good advice, as they soon find out. To find out what they found out, check it out from Feb. 5-28. When everything is going right, you know something will go wrong. The question is, how wrong can it go? In the world of cancel culture, pretty low. As in, The Cancellation of Lauren Fein.
This play which runs through March 9 at FST’s Gompertz theatre, by Christopher Demos-Brown, explores one of the current hot buttons of American life–Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. The play, and the characters in it, also raises a couple of questions. Is what we demand of others, what we want for ourselves, and Is what we permit for ourselves, what we are willing to grant to others? One-way streets have signs, but two-way streets often don’t. More info on both at floridastudiotheatre.org.
It’s February, so where is Shostakovich?
His body may be long gone, but his spirit lingers on. Specifically, for now, in his Piano Concerto No. 1 in C Minor for Piano, Trumpet, and Strings which is being performed on February 13 by the Chamber Orchestra of Sarasota at 1st Presbyterian Church on Oak Street in their Sparkling Virtuosity program under the direction of Music Director and Conductor Robert Vodnoy.
Dmitri’s spirit will be flowing through the fingers of Inna Faliks as she performs this demanding piece. Shosti will be joined by Rossini, Bach and Johann Strauss, Jr.
Perhaps Ms. Faliks has a split personality, as she will also be channeling Bach through his Concerto in G Minor for Piano and Strings. Ms. Faliks, professor and head of Piano Studies at UCLA, plays at music festivals, with orchestras, and presides over piano masterclasses, around the world. More info at chamberorchestrasarasota.org.
If it ain’t baroque, they’ll fix it No fixing necessary as it is a twoday (3 concert) Baroquefest being presented and performed by the Key Chorale Chamber Singers and their guest artists at the Church of the Redeemer’s Gillespie Hall. On February 7, it’s all Vivaldi, all Handel: Two Titans of Baroque. The Sarasota Orchestra’s concert master, Daniel Jordan, will be performing 25% (Autumn) of Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons, with Grammy-nominated soprano Yulia Van Doren. Vivaldi’s Concerto for 2 trumpets in C Major and his Gloria in D Major will also be performed. The concert begins with Handel’s Zadok the Priest, his The Arrival of the Queen of Sheba,
and his Dettingen Ta Deum. A side note: A Ta Deum is a hymn sung in praise of something, in this case, a battle in Southern Germany. Holy Roman Emperor Charles VI had died and left his Habsburg dominions to his daughter Marie Theresa. The French, stating that they did not want a woman to become head of the Habsburg lands, amassed an army of 60,000 to stop her. King George II, leading the British army and those of his Austrian and Habsburg allies, won the day by defeating the French at Dettingen, and Marie Theresa then ruled for 40 years.
In the afternoon of the 8th, following a gourmet Bach’s Lunch (not a box lunch) there will be a Psychedelic Bach organ recital (Passacaglia and Fugue in C Minor, Concerto Grosso in D Minor and a Gigue Fugue in G Major) performed by Sam Nelson.
That evening, following an included pre-concert reception, there will be the French Baroque of Couperin, Lully, Jean-Philippe Rameu, and others, with a host of
guest artists. On the 15th, Joseph Caulkins will be leading the Key Choral in Verdi’s Requiem, at Church of the Palms. This, one of Verdi’s most powerful works, a combination of opera and symphony with full chorus and four soloists, will be spellbinding with over 150 musicians on stage. Info for all concerts at keychorale.org.
DaRuMa: Dual dining destination
Imagine a restaurant that offers customers two distinct dining experiences under one roof. Located at 4910 S. Tamiami Trail, DaRuMa features two separate dining rooms, each with its own unique menu.
One side offers a Teppanyaki experience, where chefs prepare meals on a hibachi grill right at the table. “On the Teppanyaki side, everything comes with soup, salad, shrimp Pompeii, stir-fried vegetables, steamed rice, and green tea,” General Manager Ron Butine explained. “Customers choose their protein, and the price is based on that selection. Everyone gets the same sides.”
The other side is a traditional dining room, where dishes are prepared in the kitchen and brought to the table. This menu features authentic Japanese options like tempura, teriyaki, and sushi. “Most of our entrees on the traditional menu are petite-sized, but we also offer full sizes,” Butine said. “This allows customers to enjoy an entree and still have room for sushi.”
Butine has been with DaRuMa for 33 years.
Originally planning to stay just a few months, he became enamored with the restaurant, inspired by the vision of its founder, Hsin Ting Chang. “I fell in love with his vision, the quality of the product, and what DaRuMa represents,” Butine said. He worked closely with Chang, helping to open new locations and manage
Beach
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Beach. However, the adjacent county-run campground remains closed for renovations with no set reopening date. So, whether you’re counting steps for a T-shirt, stretching your brain with environmental lectures, or simply enjoying the beach, grab your flip-flops and make the most of what Siesta Key has to offer.
By Mackenzie Palmer
interior designs. “Chang wanted to bring high-quality Japanese food to America. I learned a lot from him before he passed.” DaRuMa operates from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and until 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. One of Chang’s lasting influences is the emphasis on maintaining a small, loyal staff, which Butine believes ensures happier, wellpaid employees. “Not having
CBs
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CB’s offers four-hour bay fishing charters for one to three anglers at $500, or six-hour trips for $700. Adding a fourth person costs an additional $100. Occasionally, they also run Gulf and reef charters, night snook fishing, and tarpon fishing during the season. Reservations can be made by calling (941) 3494400. The bay boats, designed for shallow waters, range from 19 to
double shifts means our staff isn’t overworked, and it shows in the service,” Butine said. “I get many compliments on my team, and I work to keep improving.”
This DaRuMa location has been serving guests for six years and is one of three locations. Customers consistently praise the service and quality, the same elements that turned Butine’s brief stint into a 33-year career, one he continues to cherish.
24 feet in length. It’s advisable to book a week or two in advance, especially during peak season. No fishing licenses are required, making it a perfect family outing. The salts at CB’s still talk about the eight-yearold who caught a 30-inch snook. However, these are not party boats. Guests are welcome to bring food or alcohol but remember, you’re there to fish.
DaRuMa is a unique restaurant that offers diners a dual dining option: either a Teppanyaki experience where chefs prepare meals on a hibachi grill at the table (shown above) or a traditional dining experience. (Photo provided)
DISCOVER GULF GATE’S SHOPPING VILLAGE
With our map on the next page you’ll be able to navigate your way to our featured shops with ease.
The Shop SRQ (G-2) offers flat-tops, fades, tapers, blowouts, razor cuts, and straight razor shaves. Owners, Erick and Dawn use a back to basics approach to grooming with a precise attention to personal detail.
Their commitment to excellence has provided them with many loyal customers. They welcome the opportunity to earn your trust. Hours: Tues. thru Fri. 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sat., 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Gulf Gate Barber Shop (G-7) has been an institution in the community for years, owned by Kyle Flannery. The super-clean barbershop’s clientele is comprised of primarily men, but the shop services children as well. Scott Reich, formerly of the Siesta Key Village Barber Shop has relocated to this location.
Tony’s Chicago Beef Company (S-16) is owned and operated by true Chicagoans. Dedicated to deliver Chicago’s best food, Chicago style Hot Dogs wit’ the works ... dragged through the garden on poppy seed buns with fresh cut fries, Italian Beef Sandwiches anyway you like, dipped or dry, sweet or hot.
Solórzano’s Late Night Pizzeria (S-34): At every Solórzano’s, they offer an experience familiar to those who understand the importance of family and dedication. Their
recipes and techniques have been perfected through three long generations based on the traditional simplicity of the methods used by their Italian ancestors. Dine inside, outside, pick up, or DELIVERY anywhere on Siesta Key, or in Sarasota until 3:30 a.m. 6574 Superior Ave., 941-924-5800.
Gulf Gate Food + Beer (S-51): Sarasota’s late-night hot spot for the service industry, night owls, and midnight snackers. It’s not your typical sports bar, offering unique menu selections for carnivores and vegetarians.
Be sure to check out their menu online at: eatfooddrinkbeer.com. Hours: 11 a.m. – 1 a.m. (Sun. - Thurs.) open until 2 a.m. (Fri & Sat.).
Roberts Realty, Inc. (M-5) John Garner, Broker Assoc. & Diane Shane, Broker Assoc. have a combined 40 years’ experience in Sarasota of making dreams come true for our clients. For buyers, we have had great success in finding the right property for our clients because we listen closely to their wants and needs and matching that as close as possible. For sellers, over the years we have successfully listed and sold many, many properties throughout Sarasota County. Our philosophy is to have fun, enjoy the experience, achieve great results, make friends and receive referrals. We’re with you every step of the way! Call 941-924-2330 or drop by our office.
Only Eyes Optical (S-24) brings a new, exotic, eclectic, eccentric, unique collection of vintage, hipster, contemporary eyeglasses
and sunglasses to the community. Licensed and experienced optician available to fill your prescriptions. Only Eyes Optical has a large assortment of free frames with the purchase of new lenses. Call 941-444-7984 to set up an appointment with their licensed optician.
Seascape Aquarium & Pet Center (GG39) Serving the area since 1975, this lively critter emporium features 10,000 feet of showroom, 25,000 gallons of freshwater, saltwater and coral, and adventures galore. Hours are Monday-thru Friday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday 10 am. 5 p.m., Sunday noon to 4 p.m.
Scandinavian Gifts Baked Goods and Grocery (GG-37) A fixture in Sarasota for 32 years, Scandinavian Gifts offers an assortment of linens, glassware, cookbooks, jewelry, candles, food items, and Christmas collectibles. Located at 2166 Gulf Gate Drive, the store is open Monday-Saturday from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Apothecary Shoppe (GG-28) Eric and Laurie’s knowledge of pharmaceuticals and natural/holistic remedies enables the safe integration of traditional and natural therapies. Their organic skincare line is compounded on site by Laurie who started her career as a make-up artist for the Today Show, Saturday Night Live, and so many more. Eric is a pharmacist and also certified in naturopathy, wanting the best natural options for his clients. Open M-F 10-5 pm, Sat 10-3 pm.
