Hej Sarasota!

IKEA Is Coming to Sarasota This Summer

The Swedish home-furnishings giant plans to open a 48,000-square-foot store at University Town Center, bringing flat-pack furniture, meatballs and one of the world’s most recognizable retail brands.

04/10/2026 By Kim Doleatto

Welcome to the Neighborhood

Zōtō Sushi's Adjoining Sister Restaurant, Yūgen, Will Open Valentine's Week

The multi-course Japanese kaiseki restaurant will feature only 10 seats and two reservation seatings.

01/27/2026 By Lauren Jackson

Suncoast Searchlight

Florida Bill Would Give Benderson Development Its Own Taxing District at UTC

House Bill 4091 would give Benderson the ability to finance and oversee future expansions of the shopping hub, as well as the rowing park.

01/17/2026 By Derek Gilliam/Suncoast Searchlight and Christian Casale/Sarasota Herald-Tribune

Your New Sushi Spot

Zōtō at University Town Center Offers an Elevated Sushi Experience

From the moment you step inside the restaurant, the relationship between dark and light evokes a yin and yang that carries through to the menu.

01/02/2026 By Lauren Jackson

Merry and Bright

Nine Stunning Local Christmas Trees to Go See This Holiday Season

Need a break from the blue light of your computer or phone screen as we head into the holidays? Try these lights instead.

12/19/2025 By Megan McDonald Photography by Damon Powers

Eel Be Back

July 6 Is the Last Day to Visit Mote Aquarium on City Island

The aquarium is closing its doors in preparation for the big move to its new facility at Nathan Benderson Park.

06/19/2025 By Lauren Jackson

Itadakimasu

Zōtō, an Upscale Japanese Restaurant, Is Coming to University Town Center

The owners of Tampa's Michelin-starred Kōsen are bringing their newest concept, which will focus izakaya on Japanese whisky, to Sarasota.

05/29/2025 By Lauren Jackson

Here We Go!

Florence and the Spice Boys' Second Location Is Open

The much-loved restaurants opened outpost No. 2 on Monday, April 28.

04/24/2025 By Lauren Jackson

La Bella Vita

Two Popular Tampa Restaurants Are Coming to University Town Center

Chef-owner Chris Ponte is bringing his On Swann and Olivia to the shopping and dining district.

02/18/2025 By Lauren Jackson

Well Done

University Town Center's New Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar Is Now Open

It's the chain's second Sarasota location.

02/10/2025 By Lauren Jackson

Hot Hot Hot

Florence and the Spice Boys Is Coming to University Town Center

The popular restaurant's second location is slated to open in late 2024 or early 2025.

05/08/2024 By Lauren Jackson

Pure Goodness

South Florida's Pura Vida Restaurant Chain Is Coming to University Town Center

The new restaurant will be serving up what it calls 'feel-good' food, starting in early 2024.

08/16/2023 By Lauren Jackson

SEA and Be Seen

Get a Sneak Peek of Mote's New Aquarium at This Year's 'SEAsonal' Tasting

Enjoy light bites, beer and wine while supporting the aquarium's newest endeavor.

04/04/2023 By Lauren Jackson

Lager Than Life

Yard House Opens on April 2 at University Town Center

The restaurant boasts 110 beers on tap.

03/30/2023 By Lauren Jackson

Opa!

Blu Kouzina is Opening its Second Sarasota Location at University Town Center

Owners Effie and Dennis Tsakiris want you to feel like you're entering their home.

03/21/2023 By Lauren Jackson

Just Keep Swimming

JPan Is Showcasing Different Cuts From a 170-Pound Tuna at a Special Dinner, and You're Invited

Guests are invited to watch as the restaurant's chefs break down the fish before enjoying an eight-course tasting menu.

03/08/2023 By Lauren Jackson

Viva Tequila

Rocco's Tacos Will Open at University Town Center on March 6

The long-anticipated restaurant will feature traditional Mexican favorites, more than 300 tequilas and a generous happy hour.

02/14/2023 By Lauren Jackson

So Fresh

Tampa's Naked Farmer and Punta Gorda's Fat Point Brewing Are Coming to UTC

Naked Farmer will bring farm-fresh food while Fat Point Brewing will offer sunshine-inspired brews.

11/17/2022 By Lauren Jackson

Cars, Coffee & Community

Sarasota Cars & Coffee Is Bridging the Generation Gap

The monthly gathering of car enthusiasts is raising funds for those affected by Hurricane Ian on Oct. 8.

10/06/2022 By Laura Paquette

Neighborhood Guide

The Best Restaurants Near University Town Center

Our top picks to whet your appetite during a day of shopping in this fast-growing part of town.

05/23/2022 By Lauren Jackson

Sarasota Magazine

University Town Center