Dry Dock Waterfront Grill

Dry Dock Waterfront Grill Sarasota, Florida: A Must-Visit Dining Destination

Nestled on the picturesque Longboat Key in Sarasota, Florida, the Dry Dock Waterfront Grill offers visitors a memorable dining experience with stunning views of Sarasota Bay. Known for its "polished casual" atmosphere, the restaurant has been a favorite of both locals and tourists since 1989. Featuring a selection of fresh seafood and center-cut steaks, the Grill prides itself on serving a delectable variety of dishes made from locally sourced ingredients.

Guests at Dry Dock Waterfront Grill can indulge in mouthwatering menu offerings such as the award-winning Grouper Sandwich, savory crab cakes, and succulent shrimp, to name a few. The establishment also caters to a range of dietary preferences with gluten-friendly and vegetarian options available upon request. As patrons dine al fresco and take in the breathtaking waterfront views, they can also enjoy an assortment of renowned cocktails to elevate their experience.

With its impeccable blend of delicious cuisine, enchanting ambiance, and friendly service, the Dry Dock Waterfront Grill has crafted a unique dining destination on Longboat Key. Visitors to this stunning location will undoubtedly leave captivated by the taste and charm of this extraordinary eatery.

Location and Accessibility

Dry Dock Waterfront Grill is situated on the scenic Longboat Key in Sarasota, Florida, offering visitors an idyllic waterfront dining experience. With its convenient location near the southern end of Longboat Key, Dry Dock is easily accessible for both tourists and locals alike, providing a perfect getaway for lunch or dinner.

Nearby Attractions

Visitors can explore several attractions close to the restaurant, such as St. Armand's Circle, which is located just a short drive away. St. Armand's Circle is known for its upscale shopping, dining, and entertainment options, making it a perfect place to find unique souvenirs or enjoy a leisurely stroll after a delicious meal at Dry Dock. Additionally, the vibrant downtown Sarasota area is just minutes away, offering visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the local culture, arts, and nightlife.

Parking and Transportation

Parking at Dry Dock Waterfront Grill is both easy and convenient. The restaurant provides ample on-site parking, so you won't need to search for a spot before enjoying your meal. Furthermore, Dry Dock is accessible via several means of transportation, such as private vehicles, ride-sharing services, and bicycles. Its location behind the gas station at the south end of Longboat Key ensures that finding the restaurant is a breeze for all visitors, whether they're coming from downtown Sarasota or the nearby 34228 area.

Ambience and Dining Experience

The Dry Dock Waterfront Grill is a popular dining destination in Sarasota, Florida, known for its beautiful waterfront location on Sarasota Bay. The restaurant boasts both indoor and outdoor seating options, allowing guests to enjoy the stunning panoramic views of the bay as they dine on their delicious meals.

For those who prefer al fresco dining, the restaurant features a spacious outdoor patio area, complete with ample seating to accommodate diners. The outdoor dining experience is particularly enjoyable, thanks to the gentle sea breeze and the mesmerizing sight of shimmering waters.

The atmosphere at Dry Dock Waterfront Grill is casual yet elegant, striking the perfect balance between a laid-back environment and a refined dining experience. Patrons can choose between the relaxing ambience of the outdoor seating or the air-conditioned comfort of the indoor dining area, decorated with tasteful nautical accents.

This waterfront gem offers a truly unique dining experience, with the opportunity to watch boats dock and depart as they sail through Sarasota Bay. Dockside patio seating is also available, giving guests an up-close view of the pristine waters and busy marina.

In summary, the Dry Dock Waterfront Grill is an outstanding choice for a relaxing and memorable dining experience in Sarasota, Florida. With a combination of excellent food, attentive service, and the captivating ambience of the waterfront setting, this restaurant is sure to impress visitors and locals alike.

Cuisine and Menu

The Dry Dock Waterfront Grill in Sarasota, Florida, is known for its delectable cuisine and diverse menu options. The restaurant specializes in seafood, offering a variety of dishes featuring ingredients such as crab, shrimp, fish, and more. The seafood selection is not only expansive but also emphasizes freshness, ensuring that diners savor the true flavors of the ocean.

At the heart of the menu are signature dishes like the grouper sandwich, a crowd favorite for its delicious taste and tender fish. Other standout items include the crab cake, made from a mouthwatering blend of ingredients, and the lobster rolls – a classic seafood delicacy. For those who love shrimp, the Peel & Eat Shrimp is a popular choice, offering large, chilled domestic shrimp that are perfect for sharing.

The Dry Dock Waterfront Grill also serves a variety of scallop dishes, such as the bacon-wrapped scallops, which are crispy sea scallops wrapped in bacon and drizzled with maple syrup, providing a perfect combination of savory and sweet flavors. For red snapper fans, the menu offers options that highlight the natural flavors of this popular fish.

In addition to these main dishes, the restaurant's menu also includes appetizers like calamari, adding a crunchy and flavorful start to any meal. The Fishcamp Chowder is another favorite appetizer, providing a hearty, tomato-based soup with grouper, clams, celery, onions, and potatoes.

Seafood-lovers and those seeking a varied menu with fresh ingredients and flavors would not be disappointed with Dry Dock Waterfront Grill's cuisine. The menu presents an impressive array of dishes that truly showcases the best of their seafood offerings in a beautiful waterfront setting.

Special Features and Reasons to Visit

Dry Dock Waterfront Grill is a popular culinary destination in Sarasota, Florida, offering a memorable dining experience on the waterfront. One of the key features of this restaurant is its stunning location with spectacular views of the Gulf of Mexico. Guests can enjoy their meal while gazing out at the serene waters, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing and enjoyable outing.

Boat enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity to Marina Jack as well. This means that visitors can easily access Dry Dock Waterfront Grill by boat, adding an extra touch of charm to the experience. Furthermore, the restaurant has a lively tiki bar where patrons can enjoy refreshing beverages and live music in a laid-back atmosphere.

The indoor seating area at Dry Dock Waterfront Grill features floor-to-ceiling windows, ensuring that guests can still appreciate the stunning views while enjoying their meal in the comfort of the indoors. This makes it an excellent destination to visit year-round, regardless of the weather outside.

In addition to its prime location and fantastic ambiance, Dry Dock Waterfront Grill is also well-regarded for its diverse menu offerings. Some popular dishes include their delectable prime rib and mouthwatering burger options. Guests can also enjoy a variety of seafood dishes made using fresh ingredients sourced from the surrounding area.

Overall, Dry Dock Waterfront Grill combines an impressive array of features that make it a must-visit destination for anyone in Sarasota. From the breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico and access to Marina Jack to the relaxing tiki bar and delightful menu offerings, this restaurant offers a one-of-a-kind experience for visitors.

Services and Amenities

Dry Dock Waterfront Grill, located in Sarasota, Florida, offers a picturesque dining experience for its guests. As a waterfront restaurant, it provides scenic views of Sarasota Bay that can be enjoyed from its al fresco dining area. Offering a selection of delicious dishes to satisfy every palate, Dry Dock is a perfect destination for locals and visitors alike looking for a memorable meal.

Open for both lunch and dinner, the menu boasts a great variety of expertly prepared seafood dishes, including their award-winning Grouper Sandwich. Lobster Roll is another popular option favored by many guests. The restaurant also caters to families by providing a family-friendly environment, making it a suitable destination for a wholesome dining experience.

The restaurant allows guests to make reservations through OpenTable, making it convenient to ensure a table is available during peak hours. Dry Dock Waterfront Grill is also mindful of guests who prefer to enjoy their meals at home, as they offer a takeout option, allowing people to savor their delectable dishes in the comfort of their residence.

In addition to their enticing menu, Dry Dock Waterfront Grill also offers a selection of refreshing beverages and specialty cocktails to enjoy during their happy hour service. By offering a combination of exquisite dining options, a stunning location, and accommodating guest services, the Dry Dock Waterfront Grill proves to be a premier choice among waterfront restaurants in Sarasota, Florida.

Drinks and Desserts

At the Dry Dock Waterfront Grill in Sarasota, Florida, guests can enjoy a range of delicious drinks and desserts, making their dining experience even more delightful. The restaurant offers an array of handcrafted cocktails, ensuring patrons can find their perfect match while sipping on their preferred drink and enjoying the serene waterfront view.

Part of the Dry Dock Waterfront Grill's charm is its well-curated wine list. From whites to reds, and even sparkling options, there's something to satisfy every wine lover's taste buds. Whether diners are looking for a refreshing glass of Chardonnay or a rich, full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon, they'll surely find a quality wine to complement their meal.

For those with a sweet tooth, Dry Dock Waterfront Grill won't disappoint when it comes to their tempting dessert selections. Some of these enticing treats include classics like cheesecake, which is a crowd favorite. Indulging in a slice of rich, creamy cheesecake is an excellent way to cap off a waterfront dining experience.

The Desserts and Drinks section wouldn't be complete without mentioning some of the other popular dessert spots in Sarasota, such as Jack Dusty and Chart House. Like Dry Dock Waterfront Grill, these establishments boast not only delectable desserts but also stunning waterfront views, making them ideal places for a satisfying dining experience.

Additionally, lava cake is another delightful dessert option worth trying when in Sarasota. Gooey and warm on the inside with a luscious chocolate foundation, lava cake is the epitome of indulgence and a perfect choice for those wanting to satisfy their chocolate cravings.

In conclusion, Dry Dock Waterfront Grill and nearby Sarasota dessert hotspots provide a medley of irresistible drink and dessert options for diners. From refreshing cocktails to rich desserts, guests can't help but relish in these delights while taking in the gorgeous waterfront views that embellish the Sarasota dining scene.

Reviews and Local Reputation

Dry Dock Waterfront Grill in Sarasota, Florida, is well-known for its fresh seafood and picturesque waterfront views. Many locals and visitors from nearby areas like Tampa, Venice, and Osprey come to enjoy the dining experience at this polished casual restaurant. With its prime location overlooking Sarasota Bay and its close proximity to downtown Sarasota and St. Armand's Circle, Dry Dock has become a favorite destination for seafood lovers.

The reviews for Dry Dock Waterfront Grill are largely positive, praising the restaurant for its fresh grouper and red snapper dishes. One key aspect that sets it apart from other waterfront restaurants is that diners can send their catch from a fishing charter to the kitchen, where the chef will prepare the fish for their meal. The grouper, in particular, is commended for its freshness, as it is sourced from local fishermen.

In terms of value and expectations, Dry Dock Waterfront Grill consistently delivers an enjoyable dining experience for its guests. The menu offers a variety of seafood options, along with traditional American dishes to cater to diverse tastes. Apart from the food, guests also appreciate the attentive service and comfortable atmosphere at the restaurant.

Overall, the combination of fresh seafood, waterfront views, and exceptional service has earned Dry Dock Waterfront Grill a solid reputation among locals, visitors from neighboring cities, and reviewers. Its focus on providing high-quality meals and a memorable experience has made it a go-to destination for diners seeking a taste of Sarasota's best seafood offerings.

Comparison to Other Waterfront Restaurants

Dry Dock Waterfront Grill stands out among Sarasota's diverse waterfront dining options for its exceptional seafood and picturesque views of Sarasota Bay. Located on Longboat Key, the restaurant enjoys convenient access from neighboring areas like Bradenton and Gulf of Mexico Drive.

Its polished casual atmosphere attracts diners seeking a relaxing, enjoyable meal with a bit of style. While there are plenty of casual waterfront dining options in the area, Dry Dock offers an elevated experience with its indoor dining room and varied menu options.

Dry Dock is situated near notable waterfront restaurants like Mar Vista Dockside Restaurant, which is also on Longboat Key. Both restaurants offer beautiful views and delicious food, but Mar Vista leans more towards casual dining and has a focus on Floridian fare.

In Little Sarasota Bay, you'll find New Pass Grill & Bait Shop and Turtles On Little Sarasota Bay. These venues cater to a more laid-back crowd, with open-air settings and menu options that are less focused on fine dining, unlike Dry Dock's more polished offerings.

For those looking for upscale waterfront dining experiences, Sarasota has numerous options. Shore Longboat Key provides a luxurious atmosphere with a refined menu and an extensive wine list. However, Dry Dock holds its own against fine dining competitors with its exquisite seafood dishes such as stone crab and a variety of local catches.

In terms of amenities, Dry Dock provides easy access to boaters via Zwick's Channel at Marker 6, whereas Mar Vista and Shore Longboat Key rely on smaller docks. The added convenience for boating enthusiasts is a point in Dry Dock's favor, as it allows customers to arrive by both land and sea.

The beautiful location of Dry Dock also means there's plenty of wildlife to be seen, making for a unique dining experience. As you dine, keep an eye out for dolphins playing in the bay and enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding water.

Ultimately, Dry Dock Waterfront Grill's combination of quality seafood dishes, excellent location, and polished casual atmosphere make it a distinctive and well-regarded choice among Sarasota's waterfront dining options.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the menu like at Dry Dock Waterfront Grill?

The menu at Dry Dock Waterfront Grill offers a variety of dishes, focusing on seafood. They are best known for their local fresh grouper and red snapper dishes. The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating overlooking Sarasota Bay, creating the perfect atmosphere for a casual dining experience. Source

Is there a dress code for the restaurant?

Dry Dock Waterfront Grill has a "polished casual" dress code. This means that while it is a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, patrons are expected to dress appropriately for a dining experience in a waterfront setting. Casual attire is generally acceptable. Source

Do they offer a happy hour?

There is no explicit information available about a happy hour at Dry Dock Waterfront Grill, but their website may be updated with any relevant promotions or specials.

What are their hours of operation?

Unfortunately, their current hours of operation aren't listed in the given search results. It is advised to visit their official website or contact them at (941) 383-0102 for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

How are the reviews for the restaurant?

The reviews for Dry Dock Waterfront Grill are generally positive. On Tripadvisor, the restaurant is rated highly by both locals and visitors for its fresh seafood options, particularly its grouper sandwich. In another review from May 7, 2023, a customer praised the quality of the food and the waterfront location, giving it a 5 out of 5 stars rating. Source

Can I see their lunch menu?

You can view their lunch menu on their official website. The menu features seafood-focused dishes, alongside other options which cater to different preferences.