LONGBOAT KEY – This Sarasota-area barrier isle has a reputation for being an expensive place to stay and eat. But in reality (and outside of the Longboat Key Club) the restaurants are quite reasonable for beachside eateries.
The Dry Dock Waterfront Grill is located on the east side of Longboat Key, just behind and adjacent to a vertical marina “boatel.” It’s sort of tucked in to the back; it makes you feel like you are going someplace special as you have to pull your car into a funny, long, narrow parking lot. It’s one of those comfy waterfront places, casual but not too casual, with taxidermy and a wooden canoe for the decor. Sophisticated but family oriented, it serves lunch and dinner.
The large upstairs has a view of Sarasota Bay, and the first floor has a terrace that is right overlooking the dock and boat lift. On busy high-season nights, its a good place to go with kids as you can wait and walk around the pier while your table is called, or you can hang out upstairs in the bar.
412 Gulf of Mexico Dr, Longboat Key, FL 34226. www.drydockwaterfrontgrill.com
