The husband-and-wife team of Vinny and Christina D'Amato recently took over Sarasota's Tea House and overhauled the space into an upscale restaurant, Eatery 84 Scratch Eats & Wine Bar. Vinny serves as executive chef for the new restaurant; Christina is the sous chef. They moved here from St. Augustine, where they operated a restaurant, to be closer to family.

Vinny describes his restaurant as a “fun, funky upscale bistro with an American, Mediterranean and Caribbean twist.” The menu changes regularly to accommodate whatever local, seasonal ingredients can be found, but visitors can always expect a cheese board, a burger and a wide selection of craft beers, teas and wine. Eatery 84 is also currently looking for local musicians to potentially perform live music during selected nights.

“What it comes down to it, it’s all about being able to make people smile,” says Vinny. “As a chef, when you walk into the dining room and it’s quiet, that is the best thing because you know people want to talk but they are too busy eating."

Eatery 84 Scratch Eats & Wine Bar is located at 1869 Fruitville Road, Sarasota. For more info, call (941) 346-6361.