Sarasota [Siesta Key]: The Lobster Pot

This place was fun, a beachy restaurant full of "lobster stuff" that is family owned and run and had a cool, laid back vibe. Its a world away from downtown Sarasota out on Siesta Key, which is really just a short drive. There is a kitchy dining room and patio for dining, and a small bar where you can eat as well. So take your pick and enjoy.

The menu is just what you would expect from a New England seafood shack: clams, lobster [of course], fish of all sorts and great sides [the cole slaw was exceptional]. I had the lobster newburg, becuase I'm lazy and didn't want to work at getting my lobster out of the shell. The sauce was flavorful and filled with lobster, all filling a crips puff pastry shell. Good stuff. And as I said, the cole slaw was great, as were the baked beans.

If you're looking for a fine dining experience, don't go here. If you are looking for good seafood in a casual, fun environment this is your spot. Check it out. And note that there is a city parking lot behind the restaurant, its hard to see at night, but with street parking tight you'll celebrate when you find it.

EatHereOrNot: EAT HERE

http://www.sarasota-lobsterpot.com/

Miami Beach: Joe's Stone Crab

OK OK OK . . . I know its been a long time since my last posting; I'm not sure where the time went or what happened, but now I'm back. And in Florida enjoying the sun, one of my favorite things to do in the early part of a new year. So last night on South Beach we ate at Joe's Stone Crab, and institution that has grown to massive size over its long life and still delivers what its famous for: STONE CRAB. You order the crab by the size of the claws and it arrives on a bed of ice with a great mustard sauce . . . everyone's crab on one giant plate. For those of you not familiar with stone crab its a local delicacy and only the claws are served [they are ripped [removed sounds nicer] from the crab one at a time, then the crab is thrown back and happily regrows a new claw for later consumption . . . its an ongoing cycle apparently], and always chilled. The sides here are great, including a creamed spinach with garlic and sweet potato crisps.

This is a tourist and locals spot, large and loud filled with familes and couples and business diners. There is a sign at the door that "appropriate" attire is required . . . what that means I don't know since there were people dressed in shorts and bad shirts as one would find in any beach destination. I also saw a guy with a shirt that I'm sure had been embelished with a bedazzler . . . and it was not a pretty sight. So, try this place out, eat the crab claws and smie and the dress code. And, even though its on SoBe the vibe is anything but what has come to be the norm here, so enjoy and don't feel like you need lipo or implants or a fake tan to go.

EatHereOrNot: MAYBE

http://www.joesstonecrab.com/index.html