Well, there certainly is much to buzz about in the restaurant business these days. Patrick’s is moving down the street a bit, you can’t get a reservation to Pomona Bistro for a month or so, and as I mentioned last week and by the reader comments, Brasserie Belge is positioned to be named best new restaurant. Margaret Wise, Molly Schechter and I grazed on the most incredible hanger steak with shallot reduction, sautéed mushrooms in garlic cream sauce and oh, yes, those amazing crepes filled with ice cream and Belgian chocolate sauce. Movers and shakers are holding court, so get ready to seal the deal over a pot of steamed mussels and, of course, Belgian fries.

Taste of Asia has moved into their new digs on Siesta Key and the sign in their old spaces promises a new Peruvian restaurant—perfecto!

There seems to be a deal happening on almost every corner. That “hotel” in the Patrick’s location may not happen, but surely a few Sarasota favorite eateries are getting closer to being on the A list. We should hear an announcement very soon.

Super Eating

If you aren’t watching the big game Sunday at Lee Roy Selmon’s, Gecko’s or Square 1 Burgers and Bar, you might want to pick up some pre-made delights at Fresh Market. Their individual hot chicken pot pies for $3.99 are a good bet for a small gathering, especially if you start off with their foccacia pizza and end with the chocolate whoopie pies. (Didn’t I predict whoopie pies were the next cupcake rage?)

Add salami to Fresh Market's veggie pizza for a Super Bowl favorite and check out their individual lobster mac 'n cheese and chicken pot pie for a party for one or two.

Whoopie pie mania.

This year our home party will serve up Southwestern beef chili (log on to www.mysuncoast.com for the recipe), bbq turkey meatloaf sliders, traditional burger sliders, a huge chopped Greek salad, grilled chicken skewers and Cuzin’ Connie’s famous Mac n Cheese. (Note the omission of New England clam chowder; there is no joy for this New England household). Add freshly baked warm fruit turnovers. Considering I only watch for the commercials and halftime show, I think we have a touchdown of a plan.

What do you eat on Super Bowl Sunday?