The Rosemary District- Downtown Sarasota
We’ve all heard of Sarasota’s ‘Rosemary District’, but what is it? And, why is it so popular? I decided to do a little research and check it out myself, on foot. So, here is your guide to experiencing The Rosemary District. The Rosemary District is the area within the parameters of N. Tamiami, 10th St., N. Orange Ave., and Fruitville Rd. Located North of downtown Sarasota, just a walk from the Sarasota Bay. What’s better than the cultural vibe of a downtown atmosphere paired with only being a walk away from the coastal relaxation by the water?
Then & Now in the Rosemary District
The Rosemary District dates itself back to 1885. In 1886, The Rosemary Cemetery was founded on Eight Street and Central Ave; which led to the area officially being named as The Rosemary District in 1994. The National Register of Historic Places acknowledged the Rosemary Cemetery in 2003. Formerly known as Overtown, The Rosemary District began to develop in the 1920’s. Though, it didn’t start to become the popular hotspot it is today until further development in 2014. Even still, in 2019, the area has hotels and condominiums that are underway as this area grows in status.
Dining in the Rosemary District
The Rosemary District has quite the selection of dining options in downtown Sarasota. Let me tell you a little about what you can find to dig in to, grab as a snack, or sip on. Personally, I stopped in at The Overton for brunch and found my experience to be laid back, relaxing, and enjoyable. The atmosphere of the Overton appeals to those stopping in a for a quick casual meal or those looking to stay awhile, sipping on a coffee.
Mandeville Beer Garden: A unique kid and dog friendly restaurant featuring indoor seating, but also an outdoor dining area with ping pong and cornhole. Known for its selection of craft beers along with a full menu offering amazing burgers and even vegan options. With outdoor and indoor seating you’ll enjoy craft beers, a full menu, a kid and dog friendly experience, garden dining, outdoor games, cornhole, and ping pong.
Station400: A local breakfast and lunch restaurant that is family owned and operated. Station 400 prides itself in giving back to the community. The restaurants story dates back to 1852 where a railroad depot in Kentland, Indiana was built. Today that railroad depot has been pieced apart and reassembled, right here in the Rosemary District.
Spice Station: A sushi and Thai restaurant open for lunch and dinner.
Ionie Retreat and Organic Raw food Café: A small café, offering raw and vegan dishes. They also feature a spa, with a variety of therapeutic services available.
The Rosemary/ Rosemary & Thyme: The Rosemary is open for breakfast and lunch, while Rosemary & Thyme serves dinner. The Rosemary/Rosemary & Thyme are known for their scratch made variety of dishes inspired from around the country.
Toasted Mango Café: A local restaurant rooted on the art of great service. Open for breakfast and lunch, featuring breakfast all day. With indoor seating available, along with outdoor ‘dog friendly’ patio seating.
Lolita Tartine: A Cafe serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a colorful atmosphere with French and Moroccan influences. Brought to you by the same group who brings you C’est La Vie on Main Street. A casual dining experience offering indoor and patio seating.
The Overton: Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a casual counter service environment. Also featuring draft cocktails, specialty coffee, and soft serve ice cream! The Overton is known for their fast service, cool vibe, and creative spins on classic foods.
The Blue Rooster: Open for dinner and known for southern comfort food and live music. Cocktails, dinner, and dancing can be found among the blue Rooster.
Things to do in the Rosemary District
Locals and visitors alike can enjoy the unique culture of the Rosemary District. Right within the lines, check out these unique things to do that truly represent the heart of the Rosemary District. Just beyond the Rosemary District, but located in the area of downtown Sarasota, visitors may want to find themselves making a stop at one of Sarasota’s favorite spots: Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, Bayfront Park and Marina, Bird Key Park, Ringling Bridge Park, The Van Wezel, or McCurdy’s Comedy Theatre.
Rosemary District Indie Market: This monthly market is focused on keeping the local culture and character of the Rosemary District alive. Open every third Saturday of the month from November – April at 701 Cohen Way. You can find vintage dealers, local non profits, farmers, local artists, entertainers, designers, and more.
The Players Theatre: This is a local theatre that focuses on productions of mainstage classics. It is a non-professional community theatre, however many of the performing volunteers may have been professionally paid performers in their past. Performances have a combination of previous professionals and nonprofessional actors and students.
The Yoga Shack: A community of yogis both experienced and beginners unite among the Yoga Shack to experience at atmosphere of improving your mind, body, and well-being.
Rosemary Court Yoga: Features a unique and calming atmosphere as its located within the Rosemary Court Wellness Center. Historic architecture, brick pathways, and a koi pond set the tone for their many offerings of yoga classes.
Sarasota Architectural Salvage: Whether you’re on a hunt for a special item or simply strolling through, check out this one of a kind place. Just a walk beyond the Rosemary District. Working alongside historical societies and preservation groups, Sarasota Architectural Salvage finds antiques, furniture, décor, garden art, and building materials. Find an eclectic mix from door knobs to chandeliers from local and beyond. Custom pieces are also available.
Circus City Architectural Salvage: Find unique pieces for your home that are one of a kind. Antiques of all kinds can be found, such as furniture, lighting, music, art, signs, windows, doors, and more. Every piece has a story to uncover!
Canned Ham Vintage: A vintage boutique highlighting men’s and women’s vintage clothing and more. Beyond the items for sale, enjoy the atmosphere of the 1926 historic bungalow.
Hotels in the Rosemary District
Looking for a vacation, staycation, or simply a place to home some visitors. Downtown Sarasota’s Rosemary District has prime location to gorgeous Sarasota bay views, and things to do! See some of the hotels that can be found in Sarasota’s Rosemary District. Just outside of the Rosemary District, you can also find comfort among the well-known Embassy Suites by Hilton, and the Hyatt Regency Sarasota.
The Sarasota Modern- A Tribute Portfolio Hotel: A modern, luxury, boutique hotel featuring architecture, minimalistic approaches, and artistic vibes.
Hotel Indigo: A unique, boutique, tropical inspired, and modern hotel.
Rosemary District Real Estate
View ALL downtown Sarasota real estate
The Rosemary District real estate is best known for its modern and walkable city lifestyle. Within walking distance to shops, restaurants, the Sarasota Bay, and downtown Sarasota, the real estate location is hot. There is a lot of condominium real estate within the Rosemary District. Many people enjoy the lifestyle of walking to breakfast, lunch, dinner, the gym, work, and of course the gorgeous bay. Let me highlight a few of the real estate options among the Rosemary District.
The Bayside Club is in the pre-construction phase, with construction estimated to start in 2019. The Bayside Club features units as simple as a 1 bed 1 bath with 767 sq. ft. up to more spacious 3 bed 2 bath with 1,916 sq. ft with prices in the $400’s and up. All of the residences feature open floor plans, chef-inspired kitchens, and incredible amenities. Including yoga in the Zen Pavilion, a rooftop terrace, pet activity park, beach entry pool, internet café, private cabanas, resident lounge, and a cocktail bar just to name a few. Relaxing, hip, and brand spanking new.
Alinari at Rosemary Place was built in 2007 With the current (2019) average price in the mid 400’s. Amenities include a gym, pool, hot tub, movie theater, gorgeous bay views, and more. With beautifully maintained grounds, the Alinari is a highly desirable downtown condominium.
5th and Central: The first floor of this condominium is made up of commercial space, above that are 6 residential two-story condominiums with gated access. 5th and Central has recently been renovated and offers a rooftop swimming pool on the adjacent condominium and features contemporary designs.
Citrus Square: These residential condominiums are seated atop of retail space. Offering 1 and 2 bedroom units, though the penthouse features 3 bedrooms. Find a gated community with covered parking, 10 foot ceilings, and 8 foot doors.
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