In Da Club

Club 2040 (two blocks north of the Hollywood 20 on Sixth Street), offers a fresh spin-it's for members only. The club, which takes up an entire block, boasts the largest dance floor in town and is actually two clubs in one, with a South Beach-style space featuring house and lounge music and another spot offering overstuffed couches in a library setting for drinking your cognac. Owner Ron Koelling says it will be "just plain comfortable, yet it will rock." Three hundred slots are available for founding members. 2040 Sixth St., Sarasota. (941) 350-7237.

Zio Marks the Spot

Next step in downtown Bradenton's renaissance: a destination restaurant. Sarasota restaurant owners Ron Malone and Maurizio Dentici want their new 5,000-square-foot Zio's to become just that, serving the affordable and excellent food that keeps throngs coming to their Rico's and Il Panificio establishments. The location in the Wilson Kirk building has exposed brick and historical charm, plus extras like private dining, multiple bars and plasma screen TVs. 53 14th St. W., Bradenton. (941) 708-9001.

Design West

After years of traveling to Miami, New York or points beyond, design-hungry Sarasotans finally can find a design center nearby. A one-hour drive south brings you to the International Design Center in Estero, across from the Miramar outlet mall. Whether you need a $10,000-plus mattress and box spring from Prana or Minotti Italian modern furnishing from Minimalista, this place is for you. Upper floors to the trade only. International Design Center, 10801 Corkscrew Road, Estero. (239) 948-3666.

Metro-Sexy

The old Glauser Mercedes dealership on Mound and Osprey was dormant for some years, but all that's changed since Metro Coffee & Wine opened this summer. With great indoor and outdoor seating, it's quickly become a hot spot for a diverse crowd. Started by local psychologist, former golfer and coffee aficionado Betsy Nelson, the place is warm and friendly and goes all day and night, with a nice wine list and a clever menu. 711 S. Osprey Ave., Sarasota. (941) 365-1800.