When travelers dream of Florida, they typically envision neon-lit boardwalks, mouse-eared theme parks, and crowded beaches. They rarely picture black-brimmed hats, three-wheeled bicycles, and the aroma of pot roast simmering in a kitchen that feeds thousands. Yet, Sarasota is home to one of the most unique cultural enclaves in the American South: Pinecraft.
Pinecraft is often jokingly referred to as the “Amish Las Vegas,” not because of gambling or nightlife, but because it is the premier vacation destination for Plain people from Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Indiana. Here, the strict rules of the north often relax slightly under the subtropical sun. It is a place where snowbirds trade buggies for tricycles and heavy coats for suspenders and short sleeves.
For the “English” (non-Amish) visitor, Pinecraft offers a culinary escape that stands in stark contrast to the seafood shacks and fusion grills of the coast. The businesses here are legendary for their portions, their prices, and a commitment to scratch-made quality that has survived generations…