Ophelia’s on the Bay
When you have been voted “Best Waterfront Restaurant in Sarasota” over and over again, the bar is set high. You know that people choose your establishment to celebrate their greatest occasions, the times that will burn brightly into the memories of those in the group. Graduations, birthdays, proposals, anniversaries – – so many beautiful moments in life, and, as you age, you realize how significant and important these pivotal moments are. It is imperative that everything be perfect to memorialize your occasion. You need a scenic setting, on the water, of course, because there is nothing more special than the lights taking a little dance over the waves, as their gentle lapping onto the shores provides a subtle melody. The food has to be on-point. You know what that means, it must be locally sourced, with prime cuts of beef and the freshest seafood marvelously presented on plates that more resemble artists’ canvases due to their colorful beauty. The service has to be stellar, after all, your beloveds cannot want for anything on their special day. Sarasota has answered on multiple occasions; if you desire the best dining experience on the water, head to Ophelia’s on the Bay.
Family-owned for nearly 25 years, Ophelia’s on the Bay has become the quintessential idea of what the good life in Sarasota looks like. Locals and visitors just rave at the world-class menu, featuring the freshest foods literally found on the planet. They are known to fly in specialty fish and seafood delicacies, and go to great lengths to source the freshest and finest grades of local foods. Dining at Ophelia’s is an experience. Sipping on a martini watching the dolphins frolic in the bay through ceiling-to-floor windows is quite spectacular. Ophelia’s provides an Old Florida setting, showcasing vista views of the bay, something many people do not regularly get to enjoy. With a much laid back, elegant feeling, guests are treated to what feels like a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
The menu at Ophelia’s on the Bay reads like an exquisite novel. From Ribeye of Darling Downs Kobe Beef to Tenderloin Tournedos of Pork, the connection between reading with your eyes and yearning to taste these delicacies is short. Narrowing down the choices can be difficult, but definitely a great read as your mind ponders melt-in-your-mouth moments up ahead. You could begin your journey with the Bon Secour Oysters, then deliciously wander into their Artisanal Salad Greens, complete with cinnamon candied walnuts. Then, how about letting a local take center stage, as the Gulf Grouper, spice-bronzed with a side of habanero potatoes dazzles your delighted tasted buds? Pulling it all together for an amazing end-of-night song will be the Banana Flambé. This is just a glimpse into the exemplary dining found at Ophelia’s on the Bay. Chances are you are already aware of this award-winning gem. But if not, it is the impeccable choice for your special occasion. Or, show up on a non-eventful evening and let the professionals at Ophelia’s bring the “special” to you.
Does Ophelia’s on the Bay love IBE? Well, of course! You do not rise to the top of your game by letting great organizations like IBE pass you by. As a Sarasota staple, Ophelia’s loves supporting local businesses within the IBE network. They have found that just about everything they need around the restaurant can be sourced through an IBE barter. From uniforms to cleaning services, marketing to office supplies, and plenty of celebrations for very loyal employees, Ophelia’s on the Bay gets it done with the helpful hands of other IBE merchants.
