"Derek Barnes, Sarasota's chief culinary innovator."  Brian Ries, Creative Loafing

Welcome to Derek's Culinary Casual!

Chef/owner Derek Barnes brings together surprising combinations of flavors and textures in a progressive American cuisine. Adventurous diners will appreciate Derek’s unique creations, and those with less daring tastes will enjoy his modern comfort food. Drawing from a rich blend of culinary styles and traditions, Derek is committed to bringing pleasure to all five senses when you dine at Derek’s Culinary Casual. A semifinalist for the prestigious James Beard Best Chef South award, Derek worked with Emeril Lagasse in the kitchen of Emeril’s in New Orleans before opening his own restaurant on the SunCoast. Derek’s talent for creating unique, delectable dishes has earned him Florida Trend’s Golden Spoon award, the "Most Innovative Chef" title in the Best of SRQ Magazine 2009, and inclusion in the exclusive 2009 Zagat America’s Top Restaurants listing.

 

Check out Derek and his culinary style in this SARASOTA HOT CHEFS video!

 

At Derek’s – original, fresh, creative cuisine meets hip and sophisticated ambiance. In Sarasota’s Rosemary District, Derek’s Culinary Casual offers a chic and urban, comfortable and casual setting. You’ll always find something wonderful and new at Derek’s – whether it’s your first visit or your twice-a-week stop! Exquisite soups, superb small plates and enticing entrees are made from the freshest ingredients, hand selected from local suppliers whenever possible. And there’s always a sweet and splendid treat to add the finishing touch to every great meal. Enjoy your dish with a perfect pairing from their extensive global wine list – choose from over 100 bottles or order by the glass. Derek will be happy to help you with your selection. He is always on site, ensuring his thoughtful attention is given to the preparation of every dish.

Call 941.366.6565 to make your reservation.

And be sure to sign up for Derek's newsletter to discover what seasonal pleasures he’s added to his specials menu. Come to Derek’s Culinary Casual, on Central Avenue in Sarasota’s Rosemary District, to explore and enjoy an entirely original and delicious restaurant experience.

 

Nuts and Bolts

Dining Style: Casual Fine Dining

Cuisine: Progressive American Cuisine

Neighborhood: Rosemary District (Downtown Sarasota)

Address: 514 Central Ave., Sarasota, FL 34236

Price: $6 to $36

Website: www.dereks-sarasota.com

Email: dereks-sarasota@dereks-sarasota.com

Phone: (941) 366-6565

Fax: (941) 366-5353

Hours of Operation:
Dinner 5:00 - 10:00 Tues - Sat

Payment Options:
AMEX, Discover, MasterCard, Visa
Executive Chef/Owner: Derek Barnes

Sous Chef: Fernando Sambuceti

Dress Code: Resort Casual

Walk-ins: Yes, but reservations are highly recommended

Offers: Beer, Wine, Non-Smoking Restaurant, Takeout

Parking: Available; Public Lot, Street

Private Party Contact: Derek Barnes (941) 366-6565

 

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Hours of Operation

Dinner 5:00 - 10:00 Tues - Sat

 

 

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Want to go to Portland with Derek? Info here. Part of Sarasota-Manatee Originals

Newsletter

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Location

Derek's Culinary Casual restaurant is located in the heart of downtown Sarasota just two blocks north of Fruitville Road on Central Avenue. We're on the east side of the street. Look for the red hanging sign! (Click Here for Google Map Directions, will open in new window)

Reservations

Reservations are not required, but are recommended. Give us a call to set you up!

941-366-6565

T-shirts

We have some gorgeous t-shirts for sale at the restaurant. Show your colors! Support Derek's!

Tidbits

"Chef Derek Barnes creates dishes that are adventurous and precise at the same time. He plays with textures and flavors, pushing the gastronomic envelope at one of the most interesting and best restaurants in town."
Brian Ries, Creative Loafing

"This is true big city, indie style dining: sharp, chef-driven cooking in a plain storefront space in a not yet gentrified neighborhood. Choose foie gras, crispy rabbit, killer soups, scallops and peas, chicken and quinoa. Every course is a robust adventure, from small plates to dessert."
Chris Sherman, St. Petersburg Times

Recognition

Derek's is very honored and proud to be recognized by the following culinary institutions:

 

Zagat:
Derek's was listed, in the prestigious ZAGAT Guide as one of "America's Best Restaurant's."

James Beard Foundation:
Chef & Owner, Derek Barnes, was a semi-finalist for the 2009 James Beard Awards, "Best Chef South." The James Beard Awards are known as the "Oscars" of the food world.

Florida Trend Magazine, Golden Spoon Awards:
Every year Florida Trend Magazine will honor Exceptional restaurants with a "Golden Spoon Award." We have received this award since 2008 and hope to be a part of this coveted award for many years to come.

 

July through September, Chef Derek Barnes of Derek's Culinary Casual has travel on his mind. He's inviting Sarasota diners to explore the country through its flavors during Derek's American Table, a 10-week celebration of regional American cuisine.

Each Thursday evening from July through September, Chef Derek will present food and wine pairings that spotlight our country's diverse and unique regional flavors. He's offering Sarasota diners the chance to explore new flavors as well as sample their favorite tastes of vacations past.

Still waiting for your new passport to arrive in the mail? While you’re on hold with the State Department, get started on a global gastronomic adventure during Derek’s World Table, a 6-week celebration of global cuisine at Derek’s Culinary Casual in downtown Sarasota.

Each Thursday evening from October through November, Chef Derek Barnes will present food and wine pairings that explore the distinctive flavors of six continents and many countries.