With another new year ahead of us, there are surely many things to look forward to. On Siesta Key, it’s not just the warm sunshine, breathtaking beaches, and abundant wildlife that will catch your eye. If you’re traveling with a very special someone in your life, you’ll also want to check out some of the best restaurants in Siesta Key for Valentine’s Day.
Here are three unique restaurants that capture a fine dining experience with style elegance, but without excess. Innovative menus blend with old-world classics. They’re all close by to Siesta Key beachfront rentals where you can enjoy the privacy of a pool and sunbathing, or explore the beach at your leisure.
Summer House Steak & Seafood
While it might not be summer yet, that’s no reason to pass up the chic offerings of Summer House on 149 Avenida Messina, close to the Siesta Key Gulf coast. The name harkens back to the Summerhouse, a historic building on Siesta Key which hosted dinners, weddings, and community events. The interior is modern but decidedly cozy. Comfortable, cool décor accentuates the light of the blue and white walls that bring the space its life. Summer House is known for its impressive wine list, offering diverse selections from France, California, New Zealand, and beyond. This abundant collection is worth coming for in its own right.
The kitchen serves up a bounty of softly French-inspired cuisine and local Florida classics that go far beyond a traditional steakhouse. The menu is rife with savory sauces, exotic mushrooms, and decadent cheeses. Notable choices are the potatoes au gratin, Boursin mashed potatoes, and five-cheese mac. The aged steaks on which they pride themselves come in many different cuts. Lamb and plenty of seafood dishes fill the menu as well. If you’re feeling fancy, you can try their Wagyu beef, Porterhouse sous vide, or fresh Maine lobster.
Café L’Europe
Since 1973, Café L’Europe has been delivering memorable and delicious experiences for brunch and dinner. They are located on 431 St. Armand’s Circle in nearby Lido Key. The brick-laden interior gives an authentic portrayal of a classical European market untouched by time. It has a warm ambiance with charming artworks, linen tablecloths, and polished furnishings. The decorated veranda allows for outdoor seating as well, giving guests plenty of options to make them feel right at home.
Seafood offerings from shrimp and calamari to sea bass and even caviar make for a fine indulgence. The fresh dover sole is a favorite of many restaurateurs. For land lovers, choose from among prime rib, lamb, chicken, or veal. These meals are balanced against a great selection of wines and craft cocktails for those looking to explore and find a tasty new drink. All that, or you can uncork your own bottle of wine, sit back and enjoy some live music. This is an esteemed restaurant in the area, so reservations are recommended.
Ophelia’s by the Bay
On a quiet stretch going south from Siesta Village, Ophelia’s sits on the water on 9105 Midnight Pass Road. It’s very close to Turtle Beach, a serene locale with one of the best seashell beaches in Florida. The bayside patio is adorned with plants and lights that complement the view. Outdoor seating is encouraged, weather permitting. It’s sure to dazzle, whether you want to enjoy a relaxing lunch on a warm Florida afternoon or sit down for an exquisite meal with the backdrop of Sarasota glimmering in the distance after a majestic sunset. To add to the allure, you may even catch a manatee or dolphin swimming about.
Ophelia’s varied menu offers seafood, salads, and meats in many shapes and sizes. Tried and true picks to start include lobster bisque and crab cakes, while an adventurous diner may want to check out the escargot or octopus. For mains, the grouper and Faroe Island salmon are big hits, pheasant and duckling are among the juicier rarities you won’t find everywhere. Dessert includes Italian style cakes, sorbet or gelato, and Ophelia’s signature key lime pie.
Plan Your Visit
Siesta Key is a beautiful vacation destination that is perfect for the whole family or a romantic getaway. Check out our Crystal Sand vacation rentals, and book your visit today!
Staying in Siesta Key
When visiting us, you’re never far from a crystalline white sand beach, pale turquoise shore, and a crimson sunset. All these places and more are easily accessible from a luxurious ground floor cond on Crescent Beach. Celebrate your love and make a wonderful Valentine’s Day meal part of your romantic getaway!
