It's Your Party, Baby

t’s that time of year again. The cooler fall weather has finally arrived. Doors are flung open letting the fresh air in along with a new season of parties and catered affairs. How fortunate we are to have such a plethora of fine caterers and locations to choose from for any special event planned throughout the year. We hope you will enjoy this selection of caterers and banquet facilities from which to choose from. Let the festivities begin!

Beach Bistro &
Island’s End
6600 Gulf Drive , Holmes Beach, 778-6444 and
10101 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria, 779-2444

       The Beach Bistro boasts the highest Zagat rating for food in the state of Florida and is lauded by the guide for “the best food on the Gulf Coast.” The Bistro is also a recipient of the “Golden Spoon Award” bestowed on the Top 20 restaurants in Florida and The Wine Spectator “Award of Excellence.”

       Their wine room is a fabulous space for a small group up to 25 and i f you know the Beach Bistro, you will be well looked after.

       Island’s End is the Beach Bistro’s more casual cousin. It has been selected as one of Florida’s Top 200 restaurants by Florida Trend and voted “Best New Restaurant” by the local residents. Island’s End focuses on excellence in “Gulf Coast Cookery” with an emphasis on fresh seafood. Their restaurant is ideal for large groups for any event

       Bistro Catering takes the best that the two restaurants have to offer, in food and service, and replicates it off premises with astounding success.

Barnacle Bill’s
1526 Main Street, Sarasota, 365-6800
5050 North Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, 355-7700
Webber&Beneva, Sarasota, 923-5800

       Having rapidly established themselves as one of the best seafood restaurants in the area, Barnacle Bill’s (AKA brothers Bill and Ken Davis), now offer a smashing new private banquet room in their North Trail location. The new room seats 90 for any private function you might have in mind. Wedding dinners, business meetings, church functions - you name it and they can prepare a wonderful event for you and your guests.

       In addition to the banquet room, Barnacle Bill’s also offers full service catering for 50 to 500 people. Although they specialize in fresh seafood, all types of cuisine can be yours to enjoy. Functions can be casual to elegant and will more than meet your expectations for your next affair.

Michael’s On East Catering
1212 East Avenue South, Sarasota, 366-0007

       For twelve consecutive years, Michael’s on East Catering has been voted “Best Caterer” in Sarasota Magazine’s and WWSB-Channel 40 “Best of the Best” awards. And for good reason.

       Michael’s on East Catering sets the standard for luncheons, banquets, meetings, conferences, parties, weddings, Bar/Bat mitzvahs and galas. From intimate gatherings at your home to elaborate outdoor events, Michael’s attentive staff handles even the smallest details of your special occasions. Everything from selecting a location and theme , to colors, menus, flowers, staffing, rentals and more.

       Michael’s on East Ballroom and glass-covered tropical atrium is an idyllic location for any event. Large enough to accommodate a sit-down dinner/dance for 400-plus people, the ballroom may also be partitioned off for more intimate parties; one room seating 50 to 100; the other seating 100 to 225.

       A new addition is Michael’s Wine Cellar, where guests can have a fabulous event amongst the beautiful setting of the stylish new wine shop. Great for special wine dinners - let your imagination go!

       Michael’s is renowned for its creative cuisine, thoughtful and attentive service and meticulous attention to even the smallest of details. No catered event is outside the realm of Phil Mancini and his incomparable staff. Just ask anyone in town.

Christopher’s &
The Radisson Lido Beach Resort
700 Ben Franklin Drive, Sarasota, 388-5608

       Dinner and a sunset now have a new meaning in Sarasota.” This is the catchy phrase that so aptly describes the area’s newest dining experience, Christopher’s. Located eight stories atop the Radisson Lido Beach Resort on lovely Lido Beach (388-5608), Christopher’s is under the direction of Proprietor Christopher Brown. Joining him are Chef Darrell Mizell, and Manager DJ (both previously from DJ’s Fine Dining and Sous Chef Clinton Combs.

       Chef Mizell is classically trained from the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York and specializes in cuisine with a West Indies/Asian fusion flair. Items to enjoy include a Sushi Trio, Coral Reef Crab Cake or Tequila Lime Duckling for starters. The traditional Caesar Salad for two is prepared tableside as is the delicious Dover Sole. Other entrees include a Rack of Lamb, Pan-Seared Veal Chop, Sunset Duckling, which is a semi-boneless half duckling rubbed with Floribbean seasonings and roasted to a crisp golden brown and presented over a “sunset” of papaya, mango and raspberry sauce..

       The room itself is gorgeous. It offers a panoramic view of the Gulf on one side and a vista of downtown Sarasota on the other.

       Diners can enjoy the smart lounge/bar area for a cocktail or lite bite as well. A 1,000 gallon saltwater tank (weighing 6 tons!) and an eel tank will get your attention at Christopher’s as well.Local artist Virginia Hoffman’s etched glass is a wonderful complement to the 142-seat dining room.

       Catering and banquets at the Radisson are available for parties up to 350, so plan your wedding, Bar/Bat Mitzvah or any special event with them. Their banquet spaces are on the top floors and offer a great view of the area. Off premise catering is also available for up to 2,000. Contact Kim Lemke at 388-5653 for more information on planning these events.

Anthony’s Deli &Catering
1812 Osprey Avenue South, Sarasota, 365-2998

The family at Anthony's can create some extraordinary Italian foods for any catering affair and have been doing so since 1974. Although they specialize in Italian cuisine, do not think of Anthony's as just Italian.

They have catered luau, breakfast meetings, brunches and have served Prime Rib, Chateaubriand, Seafood and Barbecue items at many banquets, weddings and other functions around town. Anthony's offers a complete buffet or full-service selections for most catering events.

Awards keep coming in for the “familia” at Anthony’s. They were recently presented with the “Reader’s Choice Award” for best Caterer Finalist by the readers of the Sarasota Herald Tribune. Stop in and enjoy their new look in the deli. Bellisimo!

Big Kitchen Restaurant
3900 Clark Road, Sarasota, 925-3675

       Owner Jerry Gips enjoys a well-deserved reputation for excellent New York style deli food in his latest successful enterprise in the Sarasota area. The previous, long-time owner of Nellie’s Deli has taken his extensive deli knowledge and added to it. Big Kitchens menu features an extensive seafood selection, including Pecan Crusted Snapper, voted best entrée in Taste of Sarasota’s Chefs competition, 2001. Many other ethnic favorites such as Beef Brisket, Skirt Steaks, Stuffed Cabbage, Short Ribs, and Cheese Blintzes are available daily, along with side options of ginger rice, bouquets of colorful vegetables, real mashed potatoes, kasha varneshka's and potato-pancakes.

       On site, Big Kitchen staff prepares their own Corned Beef (touted by guests as the best in Florida, and better than many a New York deli can boast), and all Turkey sandwiches are created from real Turkey Breast, for a fresh change. And can they bake? Yes, all their own bread, including rye from an old family recipe, whole wheat, rolls, challah, and in the near future bagels. Baked also on the premises is every delectable dessert they serve; Chocolate lovers must try the Chocolate Tureen. Also, if dining at the Big Kitchen, don’t overlook the offerings from the elegantly stocked, moderately priced full bar.

       Take-Out and Catered options include a variety of cold salads, meat platters, and combinations of shrimp, salmon, and smoked fish, as well as hot buffets or complete packaged dinners for Thanksgiving, Chanukah, and Christmas. Delivery is available for Office Parties and Holiday Fêtes, whether it is cheese and fruit trays or simply fresh baked cookies. Big Kitchen’s Catering Guide offers many suggestions, but your guest’s preferences allow for imaginative additions. The Big Kitchen is happy to provide either formal or casual events with a knowledgeable and genial staff of servers and bartenders, as well as the libations of your choice. Stop shopping, stop fussing, and enjoy your own party for a change.

Cafe Amici
1371 Main Street, Sarasota, 951-6896

       Having recently celebrated their second year anniversary in downtown Sarasota, Cafe Amici is now doing full service catering for off premises parties. Brothers Achille and Massimo can help you plan for any event up to 200 guests. And although they do a fabulous job with their Italian cuisine, your affair can be a variety of food choices, just ask.

       The very smart dining room can also be yours for any special event you might have planned. Private parties are very popular here and their Main Street location makes it very convenient for you and your guests. Make Cafe Amici your next call for any outside catering affair or one in their restaurant.

First Choice Catering
4430 Ashton Road, Sarasota, 922-9865

       From the experience of owner Henry (Hank) Schnathmann to the classically trained Executive Chef Crawford Jim Smyth, through their excellent Sous Chef Angie Gibney, First Choice Catering offers a wide variety of quality food services.

       While they are proud to be one of Sarasota County’s major school lunch providers, First Choice Catering also offers catering for all occasion to offices, events and just about any other group.

       Chef Smyth is British-trained with a banquet background, while Ms. Gibney is well-known for her saucy flair and eye-popping presentation.

       First Choice Catering can work with every budget and is able to plan your next affair with ease. Call them first and you will see why First Choice Catering is first class!

Monochrome Gourmet Catering
Bradenton, 539-3632

       Monochrome Gourmet Catering is a high end gourmet catering business servicing the Sarasota and Bradenton area. Monochrome will provide gourmet foods ranging from fine French cuisine to Asian-Fusion cuisine. They have started by selectively targeting the Longboat Key area with gourmet dinner parties and will provide the highest standard of quality gourmet catering to all its clients.

       Owner Scott Watanabe brings over 18 years experience with food and dining. He also brings more than seven years of experience with marketing and advertising to the business, as well as more than six years experience in the food service industry.

       Monochrome will provide high end gourmet food, with a focus on French, Asian-Fusion and Nouvelle cuisine. They use the best possible products  with their business and it shows. Event planning and coordinating will be another addition to their growing repertoire.

       Monochrome’s target customers are lovers of  fine gourmet dining who are within the upper to middle class economically. These customers are willing to pay a little more for high quality food, and are more interested in the superior quality of the product than necessarily finding a bargain. Customers are those wanting to entertain in their homes, and provide the best food to their guests without the headaches and hassles of preparing, serving and cleaning up after such an event. Give them a call.

The Resort at Longboat Key Club
301 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, 387-1621

       The area’s only AAA Four-Diamond, beachfront resort is conveniently located on a barrier island just off the coast of Sarasota. The Longboat Key Club features elegantly appointed accommodations, most with full kitchens and private balconies.

       Guests enjoy the wide range of recreational activities including 45 holes of championship golf, 38 tennis courts, a fitness center with massage therapy, bicycles, water sports, Kid’s Klub for children ages 5-12 and miles of white sand beach.

       Four unique restaurants offer dining options from poolside to sophisticated. The meeting space and outdoor venues are perfect for groups and incentive programs for 10 to 160.

       The Longboat Key Club is the perfect setting for your next celebration, from a beachside gathering to an elegant gala. Their custom catering and culinary capabilities set the stage for any event. Contact Bobbi Richman, Director of Catering at 387-1621 for more information on your special event.

Robin’s Catering
548 Old Main Street, Bradenton, 747-1277

       Full service catering for just about any event is a phone call away at Robin’s Catering. Under the direction of Robin Dedicos, Robin’s Catering has a convenient downtown Bradenton location on Old Main Street for private parties up to 60 guests. The cuisine served for any affair is well-repared and very reasonably priced. From buffets to sit down meals, Robin’s Catering can prepare them for you.

       Off premises events include weddings, groups, professional, corporate and theme events up to 200 guests. Big enough to handle your business, yet small enough to care, Robin’s Catering is just a phone call away.

Ophelia’s on the Bay
9015 Midnight Pass Road, Siesta Key, 349-2212

      Ophelia's on the Bay on beautiful Siesta Key, is the ideal spot for intimate, sophisticated and romantic weddings for up to 100 people. Elegant, quiet ceremonies can be held on their outside waterfront patio on gorgeous Little Sarasota Bay.

      Proprietor Stan Ferro has owned this island paradise for nearly 15 years and he and his staff welcome bookings at Ophelia’s for weddings, holiday parties, private wine dinners, rehearsal dinners and corporate functions.

      Ophelia's will also be represented at numerous charity events this year including the recent USF's Brunch on the Bay, Taste of Sarasota, Share Our Strengths Taste of the Nation, The Florida Winefest (all in the spring), F.A.C.E., and Make a Wish Foundation Dinner. This is a wonderful opportunity to meet the Chef Mitchel Rosenbaum and to sample his award-winning cuisine.

      Ophelia's will host your holidays, toast your successes and cater to your dreams. Relaxed or formal, joyfully festive, incredibly memorable, it is all yours to have at Ophelia's on the Bay, one of the area’s most respected dining establishments.

Going Bistro
2164 Gulf Gate Drive, Sarasota, 926-2994

       Going Bistro, the creation of Chef Keith Doherty (former Executive Chef of Michael’s on East), is the most talked about new restaurant, take out and catering service in Sarasota. With an extensive menu to choose from, Going Bistro can customize the menu to your individual taste. Whether you’re having a few friends for dinner or a few hundred for a very special occasion, Going Bistro can help to make it perfect! It’s like having your own personal chef.

       Going Bistro offers full service off-premises catering for any occasion. Enjoy your holidays this year with out all the work in the kitchen! Going Bistro offers a wonderful Holiday Pick-Up Meal Package; turkey with sage jus lie, cranberry sauce, bread&herbed butter rosettes, and choice of delicious side dishes such as - brioche-wild rice stuffing, sweet potato casserole with apples and pecan, root vegetable mash or Autumn vegetable medley. Place your order now!

       Going Bistro - the newest take-out and catering solution in town ... for those who appreciate a great meal conveniently packaged to go.

       If you enjoy dining in at Going Bistro, but not the wait, they now take reservations. Call 926--2994 and reserve or to enquire about catering.

15 South
15 South Boulevard of the Presidents, Sarasota, 388-1555

Cuoco Matto
1603 North Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, 365-000

       Owner Joe Casadio and his staff  have been a terrific addition to the ever-growing Italian dining and catering scene. With two of his restaurants (the third being Osteria on St. Armands Circle) doing more catering than ever.

       At 15 South guests can use the front lounge for a group gatherings or even arrange to have part of the main dining room for a party. It is a fun spot to have a group as our Taste’s Progressive Dinner patrons can attest.

       Group gatherings can also use Cuoco Matto for their next party. Two private rooms are available for groups up to 65 and 50 people.

       The fare for any size catering event is deliciously Italian and is always a crowd pleaser from either Cuoco Matto or 15 South. Call today and let them handle any full service catered affair for you.

Maureen’s Palm Grille
5350 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key,383-7774

       Carving a well-deserved niche on LBK, Maureen’s Palm Grille has been offering a little more casual fare over the past year. Prices now start at $10.50 and guests can dine alfresco on their charming outdoor patio for dinner served Wednesday through Sunday.

       The patio can also be used for Saturday weddings. This lovely outdoor area can be tented if you wish, and with a dance floor added it is a wonderful area for this special day for up to 125 guests. Relax and let Maureen handle all the arrangements.

       Inside, the restaurant can be partitioned for any other parties or corporate events. Or the outside can be used any day of the week for your next affair. A full liquor license and great parking at the Centre Shops on Longboat Key help to make Maureen’s Palm Grille a great choice for your next special event.

Lee’s Crab Trap 1&2
Rt. 19 , Terra Ceia Bridge, Palmetto, 722-6255
4815 Memphis Road, Ellenton, 729-7777

       Having been around for years in Palmetto, the Crab Trap has been a mainstay for diners seeking a great crab dishes and much more. Their casual atmosphere is coupled with the fine food that is served in either location.

       The newer restaurant in Ellenton (right near the Prime Outlet Mall for you shoppers), is large enough to handle parties of 35 guests in the lovely, “Watch-a-Bird Lounge.” A very appropriate name as it overlooks the lake and all the interesting wildlife it has to offer. Ideal for cocktail or holiday gatherings, the lounge also has a full service bar where guests can enjoy a special meal or passed hors d’oeuvres.      Both Crab Trap restaurants are very consistent in their delicious food offerings. If  longevity is any indication of success they have done their job very well over the years. Long may it continue.

       Recent awards include being named as the “Top 200 Restaurants in Florida” and a Zagat award for the, “Best Three Crab Soup.” Lee’s Crab Trap offers some wonderful food in a comfortable atmosphere. It is no wonder they have been doing it so well for years and years.

La Fille du Boulanger
1960 Hillview Street, Sarasota, 955-8871

       One of the most popular French Bistros to open recently has been La Fille du Boulanger. Owner Pascal has created a wonderful, cozy bistro that definitely brings a bit of France to Sarasota.

       Their intimate dining room can be yours to enjoy for an evening dinner that is truly private. The whole restaurant can seat groups up to 50. Please call for availability during the season since they will be doing more dinners to accommodate their growing clientele.

       Pascal's skill in breads and pastries is evident from the lovely display in the front of the bistro and at many fine restaurants he services with his baking. Consequently full service catering, and of course take-out items, are available for you to enjoy from La Fille du Boulanger. Let them help to plan your next wonderful event with cuisine from a country where great food has been enjoyed for centuries. Bon appetit.

Beach House
200 Gulf  Drive  N., Bradenton Beach , 779-2222

       The  beach is back! The long awaited beach renourishment project is now complete and the result is a wide stretch of beautiful white sand from one end of Anna Maria to the other. No-one is more thrilled with the result than Ed Chiles, owner of the Mar Vista, Sandbar and Beachhouse restaurants. “We have always been rightfully proud of our beautiful and unique locations, but now with this project’s completion, we can offer guests an even nicer setting than before.”

       If you are looking for the perfect place to enjoy a delicious sandwich, salad, fresh fish entree or a dreamy tropical drink, all while sitting on a beachfront deck watching the sun slowly sink into the Gulf of Mexico, the Beachhouse is the place for you.

       With two volleyball courts, seven hundred feet of beach, live entertainment seven nights a week and the largest outdoor deck on the Florida Gulf Coast, the Beachhouse is more than just another restaurant. It is the perfect place for the entire family to spend hours of fun and relaxation.

       For special events, the Beachhouse can handle groups from 10 to 1000. It is ideal for beach weddings, rehearsal dinners, luncheons and dinners. Their space is just huge inside and out for these and other events.

       Full course meals or buffet are your dining options at the Beachhouse. One call can handle it all.

The Sandbar
100 Spring Avenue, Anna Maria, 778-0444

       If you haven’t visited the Sandbar in Anna Maria Island recently, you are in for a pleasant surprise. Already world renown for its stunning beauty of its natural setting, and with the recent purchase of an adjacent piece of beachfront property, it has never looked better. Affectionately called “Tahiti” by the Sandbar staff, this new addition offers the same sweeping vistas that the Sandbar is so rightly famous for.

       It also provides an ideal setting for large parties, weddings, company functions etc. (Love the new 150 ft. beach here as well!) One thing that has not changed is the Sandbar’s commitment to serving the finest in fresh native seafood.

       Whether you choose to have a function under the stars on the deck or beach or in their quaint and comfortable dining room you will be tempted with a wide array of salads, sandwiches and unique and delicious entrees.

       The Sandbar is definitely one Anna Maria Island landmark that just keeps getting better with age.

Mar Vista
760 Broadway, Longboat Key, 383-2391

       The matriarch of Longboat Key eateries, the Mar Vista has come a long way from its fish camp origins but yet still retains the feel of old Florida. Nestled against the shores of upper Sarasota Bay its tranquil waterfront setting provides the perfect back drop for dining on fresh native seafood.

       This stunning waterfront setting is ideal for parties from 10 to 200 and is the perfect location for a reunion, wedding, anniversary or just about any event you can imagine. Informal to casual is the atmosphere and the staff at Mar Vista or any of the Chiles Group Restaurants can help plan these special events for you.

Da Giorgio Ristorante
5702 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 779-0220

       Some restaurant owners can really operate their business. One gentleman who  has a great feel for his trade is Giorgio Oldano of the ristorante that bears his name. Open just three years, Escoffier award-winning Chef/Owner Giorgio has filled a wonderful need for fine Italian cuisine on Anna Maria Island. The knowledge of his food, style, and class of the ristorante does not go unnoticed by the loyal following of locals and out of towners who frequent here for dinner nightly.

       A natural progression for Da Giorgio is to expand into the catering field. The kitchen space is available and Giorgio’s creative juices can really flow with his love of all types of foods and preparations. Full service catering is now available through Da Giorgio. How nice it would be to have their fabulous food for any special event you might have in mind! Let Giorgio and his staff take care of the details for your next affair, giving you the chance to enjoy your next party.

       Enquire about their specially prepared dishes to go for your next home event. The creative talents of Da Giorgio are not just limited to Italian cuisine. His many talents include a variety of other foods as well. Call today for the details or stop in tonight for dinner and see what we mean.

Wild Monkey Gourmet, Inc.
5789 Manatee Avenue West, 761-4466

       First of all, how did they come up with that name? Owner Mike Card went through the usual “normal” names - the French ones that sounded cute and the like - and decided on one that was a bit off-the-wall, hence the Wild Monkey Gourmet was born. Just look for their “mascot” on the back wall of their shop on Manatee Avenue (in the Palma Sola Plaza).

       From elegant to casual, from large to small, The Wild Monkey can handle just about any type of catered affair you can imagine. Events that they have catered include the Brunch on the Bay, Boys and Girls Club Silent Auction, fundraiser for Governor Jeb Bush and others.

       Theme dinners are a specialty with Out of Africa, a New Orleans  and New England Lobster Bake. Thai and American Game are just some of the parties they have catered.

       As mentioned, Mike Card is one of the proprietors, and with 27 years in the food industry he knows his profession. Partner Martha Ann Harrison runs the “front of the house” with her friendly and efficient skill.

       Rapidly becoming well-known in the area, Wild Monkey Gourmet is one caterer you won’t forget for either their wonderful catered affairs or their name..

Bella Cucina
3811 Kenny Drive, Sarasota, 379-8158

       Experience goes a long way in the restaurant and catering business. At Bella Cucina, owners Randy Ellis and John Medico have over 35 combined years in food service and presentation. Well known for their amazing Italian buffet in their restaurant Bella Cucina, they can now offer their fabulous homemade Italian dishes at very reasonable prices for catered events.

       Their staff (who has years of experience with Marina Jack’s, The Colony and Michael’s on East), will be happy to assist you with anything you have in mind ­ from a special event to just a small get together in your home. Their casual catering style makes it so easy to order. With everything homemade you and your guests will certainly be pleased with the food and service from Bella Cucina.

       Stop in their restaurant and see what we mean. The 30 item buffet is just wonderful. They are open for lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch. Mangia.

Isabelle’s Eatery
6836 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key,383-0689

       The interior of Isabelle’s Eatery, located in a storefront at the north end of Longboat Key, is small, but that cannot describe the ample portions served up by owners Linda Loscalzo and manager Colleen Schlattener and their friendly staff.

       Open seven days a week for breakfast and lunch, diners can choose from a varied and eclectic menu or from a dazzling array of daily specials. All are homemade and guaranteed to satisfy even the heartiest of appetites.

       This cozy restaurant, located in the Whitney Beach Plaza, is available for evening functions and private parties. Isabelle’s also offers a catering service for events from 5 to 500. Events include weddings, banquets or private parties. The staff is always ready to create a menu, which will not only satisfy your appetite, but your guest’s desires as well. Your affairs are guaranteed to be the talk

of the island.

       The staff has a saying that goes very well with their business philosophy.“Keep your party in everyone’s mind with just the right ingredients”

Primo!&La Pergola
8076 North Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, 359-3690

       For pleasure or business, such is life, no? It is always a pleasure to dine at one of the best Italian ristorantes in town, Primo! The originator of wood burning ovens in Sarasota, Primo, under the direction of Maurizio Colucci now is pleased to offer his wonderful new banquet room for you to enjoy. La Pergola is a versatile banquet room that can offer a wonderful space for just about any event up to 150 guests. Its location just north of the airport is a big plus for meeting convenience as well.

       Business meetings, rehearsal dinners, birthdays, just about any event is great in this banquet room. Their newly expanded outdoor courtyard dining area is the perfect addition. Food selections can be arranged with Maurizio or his extremely capable and lovely assistant Afaf. Let them help you plan a menu and event that will be very special. For the complete package see their website at:http:\\www.primo-ristorante.com

       Don’t forget Primo for any full service catering events you might have planned as well. Their staff can help you make the most out of your next affair.

Cafe Baci
4001 South Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, 921-4848

       Everyone loves Italian cuisine. One restaurant that does an exceptional job in all facets of dining and hosting private parties is Cafe Baci on Sarasota's South Trail.

       Their finely appointed private dining room is a wonderful place to hold any kind of function any time of the year. Accommodating  guests groups of 20 to 50, Cafe Baci's upstairs room is the perfect place to host a breakfast, luncheon or evening affair. The downstairs Garden Room can also accommodate large groups for any special events (business or personal).

       Their Italian food selections for you and your guests include various pastas, seafood, chicken, veal and one of the best tiramisu in town. Although their cuisine is Italian in flavor, the staff at Cafe Baci can prepare any food item that you might request for your group.

       For a great affair (of which we at Taste can attest to from our many Progressive Dinners there), Cafe Baci does a terrific job in hosting private functions.

Dutch Heritage
3713 Bahia Vista, Sarasota, 955-8007

       An extremely well-run restaurant operation is the the Dutch Heritage on Bahia Vista. The amount of people that go there at all hours of the day is just amazing! With all the business is still remains clean and customers always leave with a smile on their face.

       As big as the restaurant is, they also have in-house banquet facilities for up to 300. Corporate and church functions, weddings, dinners and receptions, business and social seminars ­ you name it and they can host it for you.

       All the amenities ar there as well including an overhead projection system, piano, internet hook-ups and more. When planning an event in the future just follow the crowds to Dutch Heritage and reserve your date today.

Clancy’s
6218 Cortez Road West, Bradenton, 794-2489

       This has got to be on of the coolest places to host your next party ­ Clancy’s new Tiki Bar. It is an outdoor set-up complete with mister for that “cooling” effect. It’s great!

       Host any event here and enjoy the tropical atmosphere, drinks, music and delicious food. It ranges from sandwiches, wraps, pizza, calzones, nachos and Cubans to entrees such as grouper, shrimp, scallops and more. A full bar (with Guinness on tap) helps to round out a fun affair at Clancy’s. It’s way fun (and cool)!

Siesta Key Catering
5254 Ocean Blvd., Sarasota, 346-1664

       Siesta Key Catering&Siesta Key Island Trolley have joined forces. SBG Inc. which owns The  Daiquiri Deck, Siesta Key Oyster Bar and Speakeasy continue to grow their business by adding yet another division to their operation. They now own and operate one of Sarasota’s premier catering companies.

       There are many reasons why Siesta Key Catering Company stand out as one of the best. Not only do they cater from Naples to Tampa, but they also offer many different catering options that cannot be offered by other caterers. Their Trolley System enables them to bring your guests to and from the party.

       Did anyone say “Road Trip”? Yes, they do that as well for football games, concerts, bachelor/bachelorette parties and many more events. Their motto ­ “trolley to the action.”

       Catering Director Pete Mills says “We do all kinds of events from Black Tie to Bikinis. We know how to party and Professional service is our forté.” They even provide daiquiris from their Daiquiri Deck with portable machines and the best bartenders around.

       Siesta Key Catering Company has truly developed into a unique caterer that should be on your call list for your next event.

Coasters
1500 Stickney Point Road, Sarasota, 925-0300

       Award-winning views and a newly renovated function room that accommodates up to 65 people make Coasters the tropical destination for your next special event. Located at the entrance to Siesta Key on the sparkling waters edge of the Intracoastal, Coasters features tropical cuisine, waterside dining and a wonderful casual atmosphere.

       Planning a rehearsal dinner, bridal luncheon or corporate meeting? The private function room has a beautiful bayside view and is the perfect choice to make your party extra special. Call Catering Director, Nicolle Van Sweringen at 349-1107 for more information or to schedule an appointment to see the exciting new changes at Coasters.

The Sarasota Bread Company
208 Southgate Plaza, Sarasota, 957-3200

       The Sarasota Bread Company, located in the Southgate Plaza Mall , features the true feeling of bistro dining at its best. Sister restaurant to theaward-winning Summerhouse, this popular eatery offers beautiful Tuscan style décor and a menu featuring some of the best Summerhouse favorites.

       The professional party planners at The Sarasota Bread Company can assist you with all your catering needs and bring everything to your location. Whether it is for 10 or 100 people, your catered affair will be a culinary delight and make you the toast of the town. For more information contactNicolle Van Sweringen at 349-1107 to arrange your next gourmet luncheon or corporate outing.

The Summerhouse
6101 Midnight Pass Road, Siesta Key, 349-1100

       For over 25 years The Summerhouse Restaurant has graced the island of Siesta Key with its fabulous tropical surroundings, award-winning continental cuisine and outstanding service. The Summerhouse was recently voted Most Romantic Restaurant and was the Herald-Tribune's Readers' Choice for the Best All-Around Restaurant.

       Their waterfront tropical gardens and garden patios are perfect for wedding ceremonies. Hosts to exclusive wine dinners, corporate affairs, luncheons and anniversary parties, The Summerhouse Restaurant is the perfect locale for your special event. Professional off-premises catering to your location is also available.

       Picture Beef Wellington with flaming Potatoes Romanoff, Belgian Endive with Candied Pecans and Gorgonzola-Basil drizzle. How about Caramel Vanilla Bean Baskets with Grand Marnier fresh Berry Coulis served to guests while strolling violinists fill the air with the sounds of true romance andsplendor? All of this is possible when you call catering expert Nicolle Van Sweringen at 349-1107 for more information or to arrange a tour of theproperty.

The Twin Dolphin
Memorial Pier, Bradenton, 748-8087

       The Twin Dolphin Marina Grill's banquet facilities  accommodate 10-225 guests in beautifully appointed ballroom-style rooms. Join them upstairs with breathtaking views of the Manatee River, as well as smaller more private, newly renovated rooms downstairs for intimate gatherings.

The restaurant is located on the first floor of a historic Spanish-Mediterranean building. It offers a casually elegant dining atmosphere and is Bradenton's newest and most spectacular dining experience.

All types of memorable affairs can be enjoyed at the Twin Dolphin Marina Grill. The menu features Fresh Seafood, Premium Steaks, Floribbean Cuisine and daily specials. The restaurant includes an outdoor dining patio for a more casual setting. Contact the restaurant to help plan your menu either on or off premises and enjoy the quality cuisine of the Twin Dolphin Marina Grill.

Jonathan’s
6777 Manatee Avenue West, Bradenton, 761-1177

       The location of Jonathan’s is terrific for  private parties or functions in their restaurant. Their west Bradenton address should fill the needs of the many Bradenton residents who want a classy and well-run restaurant to handle their events for them.

       Groups or large parties up to 50 can enjoy the restaurant to yourselves with advance notice. Owner Jonathan Shute can prepare most any type of food, yet his love is the cuisine from New Orleans.

       A side note: Jonathan's is now open for lunch Tuesday through Friday with terrific food priced from $4 to $14. Make plans to go for lunch or dinner or call them for a private affair.

Destination’s Catering
4428 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota, 371-5011

       The "theme party specialists" is how Destinations Catering portray themselves. Catering consultant and proprietor Brian Rawson oversees the food and arrangements from his new Sarasota cafe and can plan your next party in any way, shape or fashion.

      Destinations Catering is definitely one of the more popular caterers in town and is at all the major events. Brian attributes his success to personal attention to detail and innovative menu planning. When we asked Brian how he provides food service for parties up to 1200 people, he said that it is like producing a Broadway play, with great planning and rehearsal. With over eighty staff at some affairs such as this, it does take a lot of organization and Destinations Catering has developed a reputation as one of the best.

       Clients can contact Brian about his full service catering, which can handle off premises parties of up to 2,000 people. His 20-year experience is certainly beneficial in making any type of party plans.

Their new cafe Bistro Bistro, at 4428 Bee Ridge Road also offers a wonderful selection of  great food to go or you may dine in if you wish.