Sarasota businesses open, reopen, plan new locations

Sarasota’s dining and business scene is seeing several changes: Backyard Social plans to bring its dining-and-entertainment concept to Sarasota County in January 2027, while Spanish restaurant Alma de España has moved into a newly purchased downtown location. Recent restaurant changes include Brick’s Smoked Meats’ permanent closure after a fire, the closing of Nick’s Bar and Georgie’s, and Smoke & Fire BBQ’s move into a shared space with Brew Life Brewing. Mitchell’s Food and Wine has opened downtown, Cock & Bull has reopened with live music and an on-site food truck, and The Breakfast House is pursuing a new location. Downtown Sarasota has also gained Bombshell Hair Company, a colorful Main Street salon opened by longtime stylist Robin Dumas.