South Sarasota County’s restaurant news stretches from a Cuban-influenced sports bar in Venice to a new steakhouse on Englewood’s Dearborn Street and a growing collection of storefronts in Downtown Wellen. Some are already serving, while others are still getting their kitchens ready. Here’s what’s new—and what diners can watch for next.
The former Rib City in the Publix-anchored Venice Village plaza is now Salty Neighbor Bar & Grill, a neighborhood sports bar where the Cuban influence goes well beyond the sandwich.
The menu includes mojo-marinated pork, Cuban steak sandwiches and “Cuban Cigars”—egg roll wrappers packed with pulled pork, ham, Swiss cheese and pickles—alongside burgers, wings, salads and other American bar fare. A 25-seat U-shaped bar, 13 televisions, Golden Tee and a TouchTunes jukebox furnish the entertainment.
Owner Edwin Morales is a retired Navy veteran who envisioned the restaurant as a comfortable local hangout with cold beer, familiar food and a little Cuban flavor…