Popular downtown Sarasota restaurant closed for months is opening this week
One of the best restaurants in Sarasota and Bradenton for burgers has been closed for months. Soon, though, the wait will be over to visit this popular downtown Sarasota dining and drinking destination.
Patrick's 1481, named after its 1481 Main Street address, has been a fixture of downtown Sarasota since 1985 when owner Jim Sullivan opened his original bar and grill location in the Kress building at Main and Pineapple streets. The 1400 Main Street address is now occupied by Fit2Run, while Patrick's has been operating at its current location since 2011.
In July, Patrick's announced it would be temporarily closing "for an extensive remodel."
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Patrick's 1481, which has been closed since Aug. 1, is reopening this week
Patrick's originally planned to reopen about a month ago.
"We are so excited to announce the extensive remodel of Patrick's 1481!," the restaurant posted to social media on July 25. "We'll be closed for business beginning Tuesday, August 1st and are currently scheduled to reopen sometime late September."
Today, Oct. 26, Patrick's shared the good news that it would soon be welcoming back guests. A "soft opening" will begin at 5 p.m. Friday, Oct. 27, followed by a grand opening party at 5 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 1.
"After a fantastic major remodel, we can't wait to welcome you back to our iconic downtown destination," reads part of the restaurant's social media post. "For decades, Patrick's 1481 has been a staple in the heart of Sarasota, and we are excited to reveal our updated look, while continuing to serve the classic American fare infused with global flavors that you know and love."
Patrick's notes that their "revamped menu" will continue to feature "classic favorites, including fresh salads, crave-worthy shareables, innovative entrees, and our mouth-watering burgers, all in our relaxed and inviting atmosphere."
As I've noted before, you can't truly experience downtown Sarasota without spending an evening – or enjoying a long lunch – sipping martinis and savoring a burger and fries at the bar or the shaded sidewalk tables of Patrick's. The menu has traditionally offered several burger options, and while you could never go wrong with the classic cheeseburger, The Kress Burger ($15) always reigned supreme. It's Patrick's thick, flavorful cheeseburger, crowned with crispy bacon and onion straws, and served with a side of their homemade chili, perfect for dipping your fries.
Yes, I'm delighted to see Patrick's return, and I hope the Kress burger finds its place on the new menu in the freshly renovated establishment, which I plan to visit soon.
Patrick's 1481 is at 1481 Main St., Sarasota. For more information, call 941-955-1481 or visit patricks1481.com.
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Wade Tatangelo is Ticket Editor for the Sarasota Herald-Tribune, and Florida Regional Dining and Entertainment Editor for the USA TODAY Network. Follow him on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. He can be reached by email at [email protected]. Support local journalism by subscribing.??????
This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: Popular Sarasota restaurant closed for months is opening this week
