Oar & Iron, Mimi Brasserie, Chipotle, Parrot Live, Smokin Momma, Bowled: Restaurant News

SARASOTA-BRADENTON, FL — Check out the latest restaurant and bar news from the Sarasota and Bradenton area.

Food Truck Partners with Music Venue

A popular local food truck, Smokin Momma Lora’s BBQ and More, has partnered with The Parrot Live, as the bar and music venue’s “exclusive food truck provider,” according to a social media post.

The Parrot Live recently took over Big Top live’s former space on Cattlemen Road. Smokin Momma began serving food at the space on Nov. 29.

“She’s serving bold flavors, and smoked magic. This is just the beginning,” the venue said. “After the holidays, we’ll be rolling out more permanent hours and pairing her killer eats with all that The Parrot Live has to offer, as we transition into our Parrot menu favorites. And who knows… we may decide to keep that Smokin Momma BBQ as a permanent addition at the venue’s events!”

Oar & Iron Scratch Kitchen Opens in Manatee County

A new seafood and steak scratch kitchen concept recently opened in Manatee County.
Oar & Iron Raw Bar & Grill, Florida’s third location, is open at 8710 U.S. 301 N., according to the Florida-based chain’s website.

There are also restaurants in Naples and Fort Myers, and a fourth planned for Babcock Ranch.

"Our first two Florida openings showed us just how much these communities were craving an elevated but comfortable place to gather over fresh seafood, steaks, and cocktails," Jeff Doward, regional director, RAVentures Hospitality, said in a news release published by CBS 42. "Now, with our third location in Parrish, we're excited to continue building momentum and welcome new guests into the Oar & Iron experience — and our growing loyalty program."

Adeline Owners Open New Restaurant in Southside Village

Mimi Brasserie & Speakeasy recently opened in Sarasota’s Southside Village, taking over the space at 1920 Hillview Street, which was previously home to Adeline.

Mimi’s is co-owned and co-founded by Edward Zaki and Drew Adams. Adams was the original owner of Adeline, initially called Meliora when it opened in 2022, before bringing on Zaki two years later.

“We just wanted to do something different than Adeline, so something a little bit more laidback, more comfort food," Zaki told the Sarasota Herald-Tribune.

Chipotle Plans New Manatee County Restaurant

Fast-casual chain Chipotle Mexican Grill is eyeing East Manatee County for a new restaurant, the Bradenton Herald reported.

The more than 2,400 square foot eatery is planned for 16680 State Road 64 East and will have a drive-thru window.

Bowled Co. Opens in Wellen Park

Bowled Co., a chain known for its customizable menu, recently opened in Venice’s Wellen Park.

“Offering salads, rice bowls, wraps, smoothies, and açaí bowls, Bowled truly has something for everyone,” according to a news release from the company.

Founded in Schenectady, New York, Bowled Co. has expanded across upstate New York, the Carolinas, and now Florida.

The Venice location is owned and operated by Mariah Fortune and Greg Landolfo, part-time residents of Wellen Park.

They were part of the original corporate startup team of Bowled Co, later selling their shares while choosing to remain with the brand as franchisees and the master partner developers for the Southeast region.

“We’re incredibly excited to be part of Wellen Park,” Fortune said. “As part-time residents, we immediately felt the need for a healthy, convenient concept here. This community values lifestyle, wellness, and good food — and Bowled fits perfectly.”