Whether it’s an intimate night out dressed in your Sunday best or an evening of adventure that makes you fall in love all over again, the Sarasota, Florida area has something for every couple looking to rekindle some joie de vivre.
CinéBistro Movie Theater
Few pairings are more strongly associated with a romantic night out than dinner and a movie. With CineBistro, you can do both at the same time. The theatre offers couples the opportunity to indulge in a pre-movie cocktail from its elegant, well-stocked bar, while dinner options like Wagyu beef sliders or pan-seared salmon elevate the in-theatre dining experience well beyond the typical bucket of greasy popcorn. And, with nobody under 21 permitted after 6 pm, the ambiance feels more like an upscale restaurant than a children’s playground.
CinéBistro, 3501 S Tamiami Trail Suite 1100, Sarasota, FL 34239.
PLEASE NOTE CINEBISTRO IS NOW CLOSED 6/20.
Beach Bistro
As one of only a few fine-dining establishments situated directly on the beach, Beach Bistro boasts a view that invites diners to celebrate their love as they gaze at each other in the glow of a setting sun. But, unlike other bars or restaurants on the water, Beach Bistro offers something utterly elegant for the discerning foodie. The menu features creatively conceived, expertly plated entrees like Floribbean grouper and a unique take on surf and turf that includes lamb and lobster. The service is impeccable, as is the wine and cocktail list.
Beach Bistro, 6600 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, FL 34217
The Blue Rooster
For an evening of revelry that has just a bit more punch, couples should try one of Sarasota’s premiere music venues and arguably one of the best spots for Southern cuisine, The Blue Rooster. Just about every night of the week, Rooster has live blues music from some of the best acts all over the state, and the music never dominates the room in spite of how rockin’ it is. That means you can enjoy your fried chicken and waffles and a mint julep while maintaining an intimate conversation. Al Fuller’s Famous Blues Jam performs every Wednesday night for a perfect weekday date, while the Sunday Gospel Brunch is the perfect cure for the hangover blues.
The Blue Rooster, 1525 4th Street, Sarasota, FL 34236
Axe and Bull
As axe-throwing continues its upward trajectory in popularity, it has quickly become a fun activity for groups of friends and couples alike. The Axe and Bull is a BYOB establishment that specializes in fun, with 3 pairs of throwing lanes that offer a more dynamic experience than run-of-the-mill bowling. The friendly staff is happy to introduce newcomers to the sport with a crash course in technique and scoring. As a fun alternative to dinner and drinks, the Axe and Bull begs the question: do couples that throw axes together, stay together?
Axe and Bull, 4088 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota, FL 34233
The Haye Loft Lounge at Euphemia Haye
Located on Longboat Key, one of the Sarasota area’s treasured vacation destinations, Euphemia Haye restaurant has been operating since 1975. It has the Old Florida charm many seek when they visit the state, and combined with its secluded spot on the Key, it has the kind of quiet charm that inspires conversation. Upstairs, however, is where couples can expect a truly intimate experience. The Haye Loft, as it is affectionately called, features drinks, desserts and small bites, all in a dimly lit, romantic environment with a revolving door of musicians providing a soundtrack. Arrive early and stay late, because this is a walk-in only experience.
Euphemia Haye, 5540 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, FL 34228
Check out these other Sarasota area nightlife options.
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