The Best of Sarasota, one of Sarasota Magazine’s most popular issues, will launch with a sneak preview party from 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, April 26, at beautiful Selby Gardens that will introduce guests to a bevy of winners gracing this May’s issue.  Bringing the Best of Sarasota issue’s pages to life will be the top names in categories from restaurants to retail. Myriad treats and surprises are in store for party-goers—everything from pomegranate martinis to applewood smoked salmon cones, golf swing tips from the pros, informal modeling and lots, lots more. The popular reggae band Democracy will be on hand to entertain. And best of all, a portion of the proceeds benefits Selby Gardens and Season of Sharing.

The magazine polled readers on their favorite restaurants by category of food (American, French, Mexican, etc.) and by special occasion (most romantic) and setting (best waterfront).

Digging deeper into Sarasota’s dining hot spots, we asked for best steakhouse, fish restaurant, barbecue, burger and much, much more. The result is a comprehensive list of new and old restaurants to try—especially after sampling specialties at the party.

In record numbers this year, readers also weighed in (no pun intended) on the best grocery store, bakery, pizza and wine stores in town—the list goes on. But Sarasota doesn’t just live to eat, so the Best of Sarasota issue covers arts and entertainment, sports, the local bar scene and men’s and women’s clothing stores.

The Best of Sarasota party also features our editors’ and reporters’ picks for “The Best of the New”—the hottest new dishes, businesses, cultural events and recreational opportunities they discovered this year.

Join the love fest on April 26, but tickets are limited; get yours now at www.sarasotamagazine.com.