Tide Tables, a casual waterfront seafood spot in Cortez, has been named to USA Today’s 2026 list of best restaurants in the country. The honor highlights the restaurant's fresh, locally caught seafood amid a busy month of openings in the Sarasota-Manatee dining scene. The list, released on February 11, features 39 diverse eateries selected by USA Today Network journalists.
The Sarasota-Manatee area saw significant activity in its dining sector during February, with Tide Tables standing out for its national accolade. Located in the historic commercial fishing village of Cortez bordering north Sarasota Bay and the Intracoastal Waterway, Tide Tables specializes in fresh seafood. The restaurant cuts its fish right on the dock overlooking Anna Maria Island, offering dishes such as a blackened grouper sandwich and specials like Thai chili grouper bites.
Tide Tables, which marked its 12th anniversary this month, is owned by locals Bobby and Gwen Woodson and Karen Bell, who also owns the nearby Star Fish Company. The USA Today Restaurants of the Year 2026 list includes 39 restaurants ranging from fine-dining to roadside spots, chosen by food journalists across the USA Today Network.
This recognition comes during a vibrant period for local restaurants. New openings included Yūgen, a reservation-only Japanese kaiseki counter in University Town Center led by chef Atsushi Okawara; Capriotti's Sandwich Shop at 6320 S. Tamiami Trail, known for subs like The Bobbie; and Duff’s Famous Wings at 3900 Clark Road, debuting in Sarasota with its award-winning Buffalo wings. Upcoming spots feature Mister O1 Extraordinary Pizza in June at 5231 University Parkway and a Panda Express in Venice Crossing Commercial Center.
Other developments include Sarasota County’s $18.1 million purchase of the former Boatyard site for a public park and potential dining, a new owner for the Cock & Bull site planning a restored hangout, and plans to revive Bob’s Train restaurant in an affordable housing project. El Greco Kitchen & Market is set to open this spring at 4035 Clark Road as a fast-casual concept.