You’ll find an international potpourri of restaurants, sidewalk cafes and shopping experiences along Sarasota’s Main Street, from Gulfstream Avenue all the way to U.S. 301. Some favorite old haunts have recently relocated to Main Street from other parts of town, and a number of new shops (Vita Moderna, Penzey’s Spices) opened during the summer, working out kinks before the return of tourists and snowbirds.
European Union
Architect Scott Vanderford has opened a dream-kitchen studio featuring drool-worthy Scavolini cabinetry and coveted Euro brands for everything from table gear to tile. Vita Moderna, 1740 Main St., (941) 487-7016.
It’s a Wrap
Everyone knows Chan Luu is famous for her wrap bracelets, but Lotus now carries the designer’s stunning new cashmere scarves (from $195) in myriad fashion colors and prints. Lotus, 1451 Main St., (941) 906-7080.
Psych Class
Psychedelic-chic clothes from Barcelona-based Desigual encourage kids to discover their fashion personalities with blingy embellishments, wild patchwork prints, butterflies and polka dots (often on the same outfit). Printed tops (from $49). Picobello, 1462 Main St., (941) 373-0475.
Snowbird Style
Pine Cone Hill’s new Haute Lodge look heads south to warmer terrain: Blue Heron blanket ($115, queen) and Dash & Albert wool hooked Cat’s Paw rug (3 feet by 5 feet, $144) are best sellers at Main Street Traders, 1468 Main St., (941) 373-0475.
Mind and Buddhi
Fashion gurus are flocking to Gymmey’s, a new shop with high-style workout gear like bamboo cargos ($98) and tanks (from $30) from hip Canadian brand Public Myth. Gymmey’s Fitness Wear, 1650 Main St., (941) 366-5400.
Rhyme and Reason
Proprietor Georgia Court feeds Sarasota’s passion for poetry with monthly readings, open mike events, and an ever-replenished stock of works by newly anointed U.S. poet laureate Philip Levine. BookStore 1, 1359 Main St., (941) 365-7900.
Spice Route
The quest for exotic spices leads to Penzey’s, Sarasota’s newest magnet for foodies, where Taste of Mexico ($39.95) and Steak Seasonings ($49.05) gift sets are hot sellers. Penzey’s Spices, 1516 Main St., (941) 388-7704.
Edgy Preppy
Clean-cut casual with an edge, every piece in this layered look makes a great gift: city trench ($399), herringbone vest ($198), extra slim-fit vintage denim shirt ($69.50) and jeans ($148). Brooks Brothers, 1500 Main St., (941) 316-1502.