Dog lovers, rejoice! There’s a new spot in town where pups can play while their humans sip cocktails — and it’s quickly becoming one of the hottest destinations in the Rosemary District. Dog Bar Sarasota officially opened its doors with a grand opening celebration on Saturday, July 19, offering an exciting mix of socializing, drinks, food, and tail-wagging fun in a dog-friendly setting unlike anything else in the area.
Taking over the former Boo’s Ice House & Dog Bar location at 1314 10th Street, Dog Bar Sarasota brings the successful concept from Dog Bar St. Pete to Sarasota’s growing downtown community. The original St. Petersburg location has cultivated nearly a decade of loyal customers — both two- and four-legged — since opening in 2016.
Owners Stephanie Marble and Fred Metzler, the engaged duo behind both venues, saw an opportunity to bring their community-driven dog bar model to Sarasota after Boo’s closed earlier this year due to post-hurricane economic challenges. “We knew the space, and we knew the potential,” says Marble. “Sarasota didn’t have anything like this, and we believe this community is ready to embrace it.”
A Canine Playground Meets Neighborhood Pub
Dog Bar Sarasota spans 6,500 square feet of combined indoor and outdoor space, with ample room for dogs to run, splash, and socialize. Outside, pups can cool off in a bone-shaped splash pool, while the 1,500-square-foot air-conditioned indoor play yard offers off-leash freedom year-round…