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Derek's Culinary CasualReservations
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Derek's Culinary Casual Reviews List
Derek's Culinary Casual
Welcome to DEREK'S CULINARY CASUAL
Chef/owner Derek Barnes brings together surprising combinations of flavors and textures in a progressive American cuisine. Adventurous diners will appreciate Derek's unique creations, and those with less daring tastes will enjoy his modern comfort food. Drawing from a rich blend of culinary styles and traditions, Derek is committed to bringing pleasure to all five senses when you dine at Derek's Culinary Casual. A semifinalist for the prestigious James Beard Best Chef South award, Derek worked with Emeril Lagasse in the kitchen of Emeril's in New Orleans before opening his own restaurant on the SunCoast. Derek's talent for creating unique, delectable dishes has earned him Florida Trend's Golden Spoon award, the "Most Innovative Chef" title in the Best of SRQ Magazine, and inclusion in the exclusive Zagat America's Top Restaurants listing. At Derek's – original, fresh, creative cuisine meets hip and sophisticated ambiance.
See more Derek's Culinary Casual details
Chef/owner Derek Barnes brings together surprising combinations of flavors and textures in a progressive American cuisine. Adventurous diners will appreciate Derek's unique creations, and those with less daring tastes will enjoy his modern comfort food. Drawing from a rich blend of culinary styles and traditions, Derek is committed to bringing pleasure to all five senses when you dine at Derek's Culinary Casual. A semifinalist for the prestigious James Beard Best Chef South award, Derek worked with Emeril Lagasse in the kitchen of Emeril's in New Orleans before opening his own restaurant on the SunCoast. Derek's talent for creating unique, delectable dishes has earned him Florida Trend's Golden Spoon award, the "Most Innovative Chef" title in the Best of SRQ Magazine, and inclusion in the exclusive Zagat America's Top Restaurants listing. At Derek's – original, fresh, creative cuisine meets hip and sophisticated ambiance.
137 Current Reviews
Summary of Diner Ratings & Reviews
Overall
(Outstanding)
4.4
/
5
Rating Breakdown 137 reviews
5 stars
(74)
4 stars
(45)
3 stars
(14)
2 stars
(0)
1 star
(4)
Food
(Outstanding)
4.5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
4.3
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
3.9
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
Filter Reviews By:
Diners classify this restaurant as:
- fit for foodies(103)
- neighborhood gem(62)
- special occasion(56)
- notable wine list(34)
- romantic(27)
- hot spot(14)
Derek's Culinary Casual Reviews List
Review 1 for Derek's Culinary Casual
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Sorry to hear restaurant is
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Sorry to hear restaurant is moving out of toen"
Dined on 04/13/2013
2006
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Review 2 for Derek's Culinary Casual
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Very good cooking with a original
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Very good cooking with a original menu
There were many choices that we would have loved to try. This speaks to a chef who is creative with wonderful combination of flavors.
The restaurant is attractive with an fabrics to absorb noise. They reportedly are changing locations but the owner/chef we would think will continue to be excellent."
There were many choices that we would have loved to try. This speaks to a chef who is creative with wonderful combination of flavors.
The restaurant is attractive with an fabrics to absorb noise. They reportedly are changing locations but the owner/chef we would think will continue to be excellent."
Dined on 04/10/2013
2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 3 for Derek's Culinary Casual
Overall rating
(Poor)
1
/
5
OVER RATED
Food
(Poor)
1
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"highly over rated. 2 entres & 2 appetisers--all extremely rich.
could not find anything good about the food.
I did not expect the waiter to offer a substitute when he asked and I told him I could not eat the main course because it was too rich, however, a class restaurant whould have made that offer.
will not return and will not recommend."
could not find anything good about the food.
I did not expect the waiter to offer a substitute when he asked and I told him I could not eat the main course because it was too rich, however, a class restaurant whould have made that offer.
will not return and will not recommend."
Dined on 04/05/2013
2011
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Review 4 for Derek's Culinary Casual
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Our experience was delightful.
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Our experience was delightful. We are sorry to hear that you will be leaving Sarasota."
Dined on 04/04/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion
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Review 5 for Derek's Culinary Casual
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Wonderful Dining Experience!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"We have been wanting to visit Derek's for almost a year and just couldn't find the 'right' time. We had family in from VA. and decided to take them on Thursday evening before they headed home. It was one of the best meals we have had in a long time. The service was spot on and we tried a range of menu items. The soups were fantastic and the calamari was simply amazing. The dinner items we selected did not disappoint either. The only small complaint was the first wine we selected they didn't have..and then the one we did decide on...they only had one bottle. So we had to 'test' another...but everything we had was great! Will definitely make this restaurant our "go to" for special occasions and when family is in town!"
Dined on 04/04/2013
2009
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 6 for Derek's Culinary Casual
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Really enjoyed our meal here.
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Really enjoyed our meal here. Sorry we did not learn about it sooner, it will be moving shortly and I know my in-laws will likely not be up for the drive. Tortilla soup was excellent as was the fish tacos (but could use some more sauce - perhaps on the side). Lamb shank was very good as were the scallops. Would highly recommend visiting this locaiton before it moves to Bradenton."
Dined on 04/03/2013
2004
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Review 7 for Derek's Culinary Casual
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Great place
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"The food and service were exceptional. The recommendations of the friendly server were spot on. I would definitely retur, however, I was tools that this restaurant is closing and moving to Bradenton in a couple of weeks. I will definitely try it there when business takes me thee."
Dined on 04/03/2013
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic
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Review 8 for Derek's Culinary Casual
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
SHORT RIBS
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"The best short ribs I have ever had. True story!"
Dined on 04/03/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic
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Review 9 for Derek's Culinary Casual
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Food met expectations. Service
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Food met expectations. Service was sub-par. I hear they are shutting down in Sarasota and relocating to Bradenton in a matter of weeks?"
Dined on 04/02/2013
2011
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Review 10 for Derek's Culinary Casual
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Wonderful last dinner with Derek
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Derek's is a culinary favorite of ours. We are so sad to see them close and relocate further away from us. The creativity is out of this world. We wish Derek much success in his next venture."
Dined on 03/30/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion
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Review 11 for Derek's Culinary Casual
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Derek's
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Derek's has long been a favorite of mine. This visit was in response to learning the restaurant is closing soon."
Dined on 03/28/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion
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Review 12 for Derek's Culinary Casual
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Amazing..
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Derek's Culinary & Casual is one of those places that foodies love. Derek is a master at deconstructing classic dishes and rebalancing them with the new interest and highest levels of quality and respect for his impeccable selection of ingredients. Sadly, he's closing the doors and moving another 40 minutes up the road... do yourself a favor and get in to see him before he leaves in a couple weeks."
Dined on 03/28/2013
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 13 for Derek's Culinary Casual
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
We were very impressed on
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We were very impressed on our first visit."
Dined on 03/27/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 14 for Derek's Culinary Casual
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
We came in very late at a
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"We came in very late at a time when most restaurants would want to lock the doors and/or convey their dismay by providing very poor service with a negative attitude. We had an outstanding experience and great food, as usual."
Dined on 03/27/2013
2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, great for lunch
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Review 15 for Derek's Culinary Casual
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Great food, ask for the big room
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Our meals were really outstanding--I had the soft-shell crab special and others had scallops simple grill and the free range chicken. Presentation was lovely. My only criticism is the divide between the small outer room by the door and the larger convivial room. It was a crowded evening, and our reservation was made only two days before, which was probably why we were seated in the smaller room. A plus is that if you're facing the right direction (I wasn't) you can see the chefs in the kitchen. But otherwise, if in that room, you have a feeling of being out of the mainstream. So book in advance and ask for the big room!"
Dined on 03/23/2013
2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 16 for Derek's Culinary Casual
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
This restaurant impresses
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"This restaurant impresses from the moment one enters. The young women maitre d' welcomes guests with a sincere and friendly manner. The decor is distinctive. i would call it "old Florida," though I suspect that there is a better description for it as it is not kitschy and combines more modern elements. The food was outstanding- maybe the best in Sarasota. the wine was reasonable as was the complete tab."
Dined on 03/22/2013
2010
Special Features: neighborhood gem
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Review 17 for Derek's Culinary Casual
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Not as good as we'd hoped.
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Not as good as we'd hoped. Actually their "Caeseresque Salad" was memorably dreadful."
Dined on 03/21/2013
2006
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Review 18 for Derek's Culinary Casual
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Food and parking too!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"You can try any menu item - they are all great! And, parking is easy and free!"
Dined on 03/13/2013
2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 19 for Derek's Culinary Casual
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Dinner at Derek's
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Three excellent outstanding meals however one meal was not good this time. In the past, the crispy duck had been excellent, but this time the duck was not half a duck but two leg and thigh pieces that were dry and just not up to par. Had a bottle of wine that was an excellent value and was great with our dinners. Service by our wait staff, Bryon, was exceptional. Don't forget to get a reservation as this is the season that it seems everyone is in town from "up north"."
Dined on 03/20/2013
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic
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Review 20 for Derek's Culinary Casual
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Derek's never fails to impress.
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
"Derek's never fails to impress."
Dined on 03/16/2013
2005
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 21 for Derek's Culinary Casual
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
We enjoyed good service, had
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We enjoyed good service, had wonderful and delectable meals, and two of our desserts were gratis for the two birthday men. So, the overall experience turned out to be very good. The food was terrific and memorable. It's a lovely restaurant for a special occasion.
Lynne"
Dined on 03/16/2013
2013
Special Features: special occasion
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Review 22 for Derek's Culinary Casual
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
My husband and I ate there
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"My husband and I ate there on Saturday night. With reservation we were taken right away.From start to finish our experience was unbelievable. Our waiter (I think his name is Dan) was wondeful, full of life, knew about all the foods and you could tell he loved his job. From Short Ribs to Scallops, from Banana Pudding to Carrot Cake you won't be disappointed. We come to Sarasota once a year for a month. I have written this one in my "Notes" to be sure we return next year. Don't miss this one!!!"
Dined on 03/16/2013
2005
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, hot spot
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Review 23 for Derek's Culinary Casual
Overall rating
(Poor)
1
/
5
While the food was good, I
Food
(Poor)
1
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Poor)
1
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"While the food was good, I would probably never eat there again because of the noise. Many of these restaurants don't take into consideration sound deadening techniques--to turn down the noise level. One of the restaurants in Lakewood Ranch had this same problem when they opened. Everybody went there once and then that was it. It was just as horrible as Saturday night--you couldn't hear the person next to you --unless you were shouting. That restaurant had to install these large objects on the ceiling and things on the wall. If you ever take care of that--please let me know and I will give you another try. P.S. Under "Rate Your Experience", under "Noise"--you should have "Extremely Loud""
Dined on 03/16/2013
2012
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Review 24 for Derek's Culinary Casual
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
This restaurant was superb
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"This restaurant was superb and the service was truly professional. We were very impressed and will definitely be back again when we return to Sarasota. Their customer service is excellent; I received a prompt reply to the email I sent through their website."
Dined on 03/06/2013
2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 25 for Derek's Culinary Casual
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
This time they missed.
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"This foodie restaurant is always experimenting and pushing, and that's great. Unexpected combinations and preparations are welcome - BUT, you have to cook things right! And flavor is always a requirement! This, our fourth (fifth?) visit just seemed to miss. And service was harried and confused. Nonetheless, we'll be back."
Dined on 02/23/2013
2010
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Review 26 for Derek's Culinary Casual
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Great food and service, feel
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Great food and service, feel that prices are a little high"
Dined on 03/14/2013
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 27 for Derek's Culinary Casual
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
We enjoyed another wonderful
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We enjoyed another wonderful dinner at Derek's. It was our wedding anniversary and we had just come from the Sarasota Orchestra performance featuring music honoring the 50th anniversary of the James Bond movies. A very fun night topped off with our favorite food in Sarasota! Derek and his team are always on their A-game."
Dined on 03/08/2013
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, late-night find, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 28 for Derek's Culinary Casual
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Excellent food & service.
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Excellent food & service. One of Sarasota's best."
Dined on 03/09/2013
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 29 for Derek's Culinary Casual
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Went with my wife and mother.
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Went with my wife and mother. Everything we ordered was fantastic."
Dined on 03/09/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 30 for Derek's Culinary Casual
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Our best meal in Sarasota,
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Our best meal in Sarasota, and everything we were looking for, i.e., courteous staff, outstanding specials and reasonable prices. It does not get any better."
Dined on 03/08/2013
2009
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 31 for Derek's Culinary Casual
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
We chose Derek's based on
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"We chose Derek's based on reviews and we were not disappointed. The food was excellent and our server was very helpful, describing the interesting menu items and offering suggestions. The chef Is very creative - not your average restaurant. It was a lovely evening and we highly recommend it."
Dined on 03/05/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 32 for Derek's Culinary Casual
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Was an excellent experience.
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Was an excellent experience. We were impressed with flavors, presentation and overall pace Of our meal. Will go again"
Dined on 03/05/2013
2005
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 33 for Derek's Culinary Casual
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
We brought our friends from
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"We brought our friends from Washington DC here for dinner before the symphony,
they absolutely loved it! Will be back very soon ..."
they absolutely loved it! Will be back very soon ..."
Dined on 02/28/2013
2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 34 for Derek's Culinary Casual
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Excellent food but experience
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Poor)
1
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Excellent food but experience was disappointing with waiter providing sub par service."
Dined on 03/01/2013
2005
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion
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Review 35 for Derek's Culinary Casual
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
If you can get past the hostess...
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Our dinner at Derek's was almost ruined before we even reached the table. I'd say we were greeted rudely by the hostess, but she never even bothered to greet us - just a surly stare. I gave our name and then we heard the only two words she'd say all night: "This way." After showing us the table, she filled our water glasses, getting a good portion on the table and looking really put out when she had to reach across the table to get my glass. Of course, she could have done what they teach on day one of waiter school and came around to my side of the table, but I guess she skipped that day.
The meal itself was OK; average starters and flavorful main courses."
The meal itself was OK; average starters and flavorful main courses."
Dined on 02/26/2013
2005
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 36 for Derek's Culinary Casual
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Dined there twice and had
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Dined there twice and had a great dinner both time. Imaginative menu; reasonable prices."
Dined on 02/27/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 37 for Derek's Culinary Casual
Overall rating
(Poor)
1
/
5
DisregardedOpen Table reservation
Food
(Poor)
1
/
5
Service
(Poor)
1
/
5
Ambiance
(Poor)
1
/
5
"Although I had a confirmed Open Table reservation (and offered to show them) Derek's claims that they never got it, and that it would be at least an hour before they could seat us. We ended up going to Cas Antica, who were also completely full, but after hearing about the way we were treated, took us in immediately.Furthermore, I'm not sure what any good using Open Table is, when a restaurant owner doesn't care that the confirmed reservation was made through this service. Not sure if I'll be using Open Table again, and certainly won't be going to Derek's (and I'll be leaving a review about my experience on Trip Advisor and Urban Spoon).This was an important design client that I was taking to dinner, and I dropped the ball!"
Dined on 02/27/2013
2013
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Review 38 for Derek's Culinary Casual
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Food innovative and superior
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Food innovative and superior quality, but had to ask for attention from waiter. Wish they had a full bar."
Dined on 02/27/2013
2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion
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Review 39 for Derek's Culinary Casual
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Derek's Downtown
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Derek's is a relaxed, quality fine dining experience. It's one of the best places to eat in downtown Sarasota. Friendly, accommodating and serving fresh food with personal riffs on standards located in an area of downtown that is a moth's wing from 5 points and will be a "destination"."
Dined on 02/26/2013
2005
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 40 for Derek's Culinary Casual
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
We liked this restaurant so
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We liked this restaurant so much that we went twice in one week during our vacation in Sarasota."
Dined on 02/19/2013
2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 41 for Derek's Culinary Casual
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Very good culinary experience
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Discovered Barramundi. Superb fish cooked to perfection. Small nugget of foie gras (too small?) but very good. Ris de veau were excellent. Will go back next time we're in Sarasota."
Dined on 02/19/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 42 for Derek's Culinary Casual
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Splendid
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"This restaurant has what it takes to be included in the list of the best in the USA. The food was probably the best I've had in Sarasota. The bone marrow appetizer dish was splendidly done, the duck confit was just crisp and tasty, the land and sea was spectacular, the wine good. We had no space left for the desserts which was a shame."
Dined on 02/23/2013
2008
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 43 for Derek's Culinary Casual
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Nice varied menu. Had the
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Nice varied menu. Had the amberjack special, as did 3 others at our table. All were slightly overcooked/dry. Will try again before passing final judgement."
Dined on 02/22/2013
2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, hot spot
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Review 44 for Derek's Culinary Casual
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Visiting Florida for vacation.
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Visiting Florida for vacation. Enjoy trying out Zagat reviewed restaurants. Derek's was definitely a great choice! Our dinners were excellent. Poached pear for dessert amazingly delightful. Loved the pot of French press coffee too! Will definitely visit again."
Dined on 02/22/2013
2011
Special Features: neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 45 for Derek's Culinary Casual
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Food and wines are always
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Food and wines are always lovely. I finally tried the pear with Goat cheese ice cream, and it was yummy. Loved the touch of orange in the spinach salad dressing. Steak and shrimp with chimichurru sauce was delicious too!"
Dined on 02/21/2013
2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 46 for Derek's Culinary Casual
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Everything tasted was very
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Everything tasted was very good but not special. I would go back the next time in Sarasota"
Dined on 02/21/2013
2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list
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Review 47 for Derek's Culinary Casual
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Excellent menu. The service
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Excellent menu. The service is efficient, if somewhat less than gracious."
Dined on 02/07/2013
2011
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Review 48 for Derek's Culinary Casual
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Outstanding!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Outstanding! Food was delicious but somewhat unusable. Great service"
Dined on 02/21/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 49 for Derek's Culinary Casual
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Good not great
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Had good meal but nothing that sets this restaurant apart. Nothing really to complain about but also felt nothing special. Have gone to much better places in Sarasota despite this resraurant's reputation as an " in " place"
Dined on 02/15/2013
2006
Special Features: hot spot
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Review 50 for Derek's Culinary Casual
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
We had an 8:15 reservation
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"We had an 8:15 reservation and were only shown to our table at 8:35 which is too long to stand in a crowded entrance. 5-10 minutes is acceptable but not more than that. Our waiter had another large party to serve who arrived at the same time as we did. Not sensible organization of table seating and staff. We have eaten here several times before and go back because the food is very good. If their standard was lower we wouldn't go there again."
Dined on 02/15/2013
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies
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