"Blistered Brussels Sprouts" at Lemon Tree Kitchen

1289 N. Palm Ave., Sarasota, (941) 552-9688, thelemontreekitchen.com
If you think you don’t like Brussels sprouts, you haven’t tried the "blistered" Brussels at Lemon Tree Kitchen. Slightly charred, with a creamy lemon aioli, this is a perfect appetizer or side dish. Warning: You may want to order two and not share.

"JPan Style Sashimi" at JPan

3800 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, (941) 954-5726; 229 N. Cattlemen Road, Sarasota, (941) 960-3997; jpanrestaurant.com
Made with ponzu, truffle oil and microgreens, this appetizer includes fresh sushi-grade salmon, tuna, octopus and yellow tail in a light and bright citrusy sauce.

Syrian Baba Ghanoush at Avlí Mess Hall

1592 Main St., Sarasota, (941) 365-2234, avlionmain.com
Avlí recently replaced El Greco Mediterranean Cafe and one of the highlights of the new menu is its delicious baba ghanoush spread. Made with smoky eggplant, pomegranate seeds and fresh mint and served with pita, it's great. Mix it up with a platter that also includes hummus and spicy feta.

Vegetable Biryani at Curry Station

3550 Clark Road, Sarasota, (941) 924-7222, currystation.net
If you are a beginner at Indian cuisine, this vegetarian dish is a wonderful introduction, with mixed vegetables cooked with basmati rice and spices. If you like a little heat, ask for some mango chutney.

"Ocean Crudo" at Indigenous

239 S. Links Ave., Sarasota, (941) 706-4740, indigenoussarasota.com
The menu here changes seasonally, so do check in advance, but if you are fortunate enough to select the "Ocean Crudo," you are in for a seafood treat. This dish offers thinly sliced fresh fish with a Meyer lemon jam, a golden tomato purée and cilantro.