No plane ticket? No problem. At Waterside Place in Lakewood Ranch, you can take your taste buds on an international journey without ever leaving town. From refined Italian dishes and bold Mexican flavors to sizzling Korean-inspired fare and New England-style lobster rolls, this walkable waterfront destination is a global culinary gem.
Here’s how to explore the world—one delicious bite at a time, right here in our very own city:
Italy: Osteria 500
A taste of Italy awaits at Osteria 500, where the atmosphere is warm, the wine is flowing, and every dish feels like it came straight from a family kitchen in Italy. This charming trattoria delivers authentic flavor and cozy elegance. House-made pastas, fresh seafood, and perfectly balanced sauces are the stars of the menu. Their pizzas are delicious, and the cocktails are top-notch! It’s a great spot for a night out with friends or a romantic date night. Don’t miss their stunning outdoor seating—absolutely perfect for golden hour dining.
Korea (with a modern twist): KORE Steakhouse
For an upscale take on Korean cuisine with a sizzling side of steakhouse luxury, KORE is a must-visit. Diners are invited to experience the best of Korean barbecue with premium cuts prepared on smokeless grills built into every table. The menu features in-house-made modern-traditional Korean side dishes, craft cocktails, and a curated wine list.
KORE’s bold aesthetic and interactive dining experience make it ideal for date nights or special occasions—I personally love coming here for birthdays or anniversaries. They also offer incredible lunch specials, and their Happy Hour (from 5–6:30 PM) features delicious discounted bites!
Mexico: Agave Bandido
Spice things up at Agave Bandido, where bold Mexican flavors meet vibrant vibes and lively cocktails. This high-energy cantina brings the party with shareable street tacos, sizzling fajitas, and their famous margaritas. (Pro tip: Try the spicy mango!)
Whether you're sitting indoors surrounded by colorful murals or enjoying the lakeside view on the patio, Agave is all about flavor and fun. Bonus: They also have a hidden speakeasy upstairs called Maya SpeakTiki—one of the best-kept secrets in town!
Northeast U.S.: Quincy’s Lobster Rolls
Craving a taste of New England? Quincy’s Lobster Rolls brings coastal charm to Florida with buttery, toasted buns stuffed with wild-caught lobster. Whether you opt for the chilled Maine-style roll or the warm Connecticut-style, every bite is pure East Coast bliss. Add some crispy fries and house-made slaw for the ultimate laid-back indulgence.
I especially love this spot because you can order to-go, grab a beer or wine, and stroll around Waterside Place while enjoying the view—with a lobster roll in hand, of course!
Around the World, One Bite at a Time
Waterside Place proves you don’t have to travel far to discover world-class flavors. Each restaurant offers a unique experience—whether you're craving cozy Italian comfort, sizzling Korean steak, vibrant Mexican fare, or coastal New England classics. So go ahead, plan your next foodie adventure right here in Lakewood Ranch. Your passport to flavor is waiting.
About the Author:
Tanya is a Sarasota-based content creator, foodie, wife, and mom of three who shares local eats, hidden gems, and lifestyle tips on her popular Instagram page @tanyainsarasota. She’s also the founder of Influence PRX, a social media company that helps businesses grow through digital storytelling. Follow along for real-time restaurant recs, fun family finds, and everything in between.