Last week I talked about an exciting event going on right now in Sarasota, Florida: Savor Sarasota Restaurant Week! For date night last week, Andrew and I decided to visit one of the restaurants participating in the event. We had gotten to sample some of the menu items from Michael’s on East during the event preview, so we knew we wanted to give it a try!

I’ve mentioned before that one of my favorite things about living here is all the amazing restaurants the area has to offer. We haven’t been eating out as much lately, but we love trying new places when we get a chance.

Michael’s on East is Sarasota’s only AAA Four Diamond Award restaurant. Dining there is more than just going out for dinner, it’s an experience!

Just in case you didn’t catch my Savor Sarasota post, I’ll give you a quick overview of what the event is all about. More than 50 restaurants participate in this two-week event each year. Each restaurant will offer 3 course dinners for $29 and a multi-course lunch for $15. It’s a great way to try some of the best restaurants in the area!

All bottles of wine were 50% off that night, so we chose this shiraz from MAN. When the owner came around to our table, he told us how he was taking a trip to South Africa to visit that winery this summer. We loved that he knew the family that owned the winery and was able to tell us a little about it.

First Course

For the first course, we had a choice of Key West Shrimp Wonton Tacos or Sunset Watermelon and Burrata Salad. Andrew and I both chose the tacos. I’m not a big shrimp fan, so I was a little hesitant about ordering it. But I was so happy I did! The tacos were the perfect combination of flavors and textures.

Second Course

The second course is a choice of Longboat Key Snapper, John Ringling’s Pork Tenderloin or Selby Breast of Duck Marie. I’ve been craving the snapper ever since I got to sample it a couple weeks ago at the Savor Sarasota preview.

I had been looking forward to this dish all day, and it was even better than I remembered! I never really think to pair sweet potato and fish, but in this case it was a perfect combination. The green beans were cooked to perfection, and the sauce brought everything together.

Third Course

For dessert, we had a choice of Siesta Key Croissant Pudding or Big Top Chocolate Ice Box Pudding. We both went with the pudding. This was without a doubt one of the best desserts I’ve had! I love chocolate and mint together, and this creation was something special. The mousse gave it a light texture, and the minty flavor was just the right way to end the meal.

If you live in or near Sarasota, be sure to check out Savor Sarasota this year! The event will continue through June 14. We highly recommend giving Michael’s on East a try. You won’t regret it!