A popular Sarasota-Manatee waterfront restaurant has been named one of the best in the country. Here’s what you need to know before you go.
Sarasota Herald-Tribune
One of the best restaurants in Sarasota and Bradenton has earned national honors.
Among 47 dining destinations from across the country, with only three others from Florida, Star Fish Company has earned a spot on the 2024 USA TODAY Restaurants of the Year list.
Promoted as a place for “ultra-casual outdoor dining,” Star Fish is located in the historic commercial fishing village of Cortez on north Sarasota Bay in Manatee County. Karen Bell, a third-generation Cortezian dedicated to preserving her family’s commercial fishing heritage, owns Star Fish.
“To me, it’s almost shocking,” Bell said. “I know we do a good job with seafood, but we’re such a tiny place in this little village; it seems incredible to be recognized. Most people don’t know Cortez exists. I’m proud of us and the great people I work with and the quality seafood we provide. I’m just really happy and feel very fortunate.”