Exciting Highlights from SRQ Daily: Your Must-Read for September 9, 2025!

[Restaurants]
Experience the Taste of Naples at Trattoria Bella Napoli
Dylan Campbell

Trattoria Bella Napoli, which means “Beautiful Naples Eatery,” opened in December 2024 on Main Street. It’s a dream brought to life by Cesare Di Iorio, a pizza chef from Naples, and his business partner, Maria Filomena Perrini. Cesare’s wife, Diana Mattera, runs the front of the house. Every dish embodies authentic Neapolitan flavors, from award-winning pizzas to homemade pastas.

One popular dish is the Bella Napoli gnocchi, served in a pizza basket. These tender potato dumplings, made fresh daily, swim in a vibrant zucchini pesto alongside creamy stracciatella cheese and crispy speck. “In Naples, we have something called ‘wallet pizza’ where you can fold it up and eat on the go. That inspired this gnocchi dish,” said Di Iorio.

Though the menu boasts a variety of Neapolitan delights, the pizza steals the spotlight. The dough, crafted from imported OO flour, ferments for 24-48 hours before being baked in a 900-degree oven for just 90 seconds. “It’s soft. Not crispy like American pizza,” Di Iorio explains. The crust may have a slight crunch, but the overall texture remains light and soft.

A standout on the menu is the polpettina. This dish features a fluffy crust filled with tomato sauce, gooey mozzarella, savory meatballs, and a special ricotta-stuffed crust. “I use my grandma’s recipe for the meatballs. It’s all about tradition,” shared Di Iorio, emphasizing the love and care in every bite.

As of 2023, pizza sales in the U.S. exceed $46 billion annually, making it a beloved dish across the country. With their dedication to quality and tradition, Trattoria Bella Napoli is poised to make a mark in this vibrant industry.

Trattoria Bella Napoli is located at 1551 Main St., Sarasota, FL 34236. Call 941-330-9200 for more information.

Photo by Wes Roberts.

Discover more here.

[The Dish]
Step into a Fantasy at The Westin’s Starfall Ball
Kate Wight

The Westin Sarasota is hosting the Starfall Ball on November 1st, a magical evening inspired by Sarah J. Maas’s “A Court of Mist and Fury.” This immersive event is perfect for fans of romantasy, a genre that blends love stories with fantasy adventures, gaining traction through platforms like BookTok.

The ballroom will transform into a starry wonderland. Guests can shop at the Starfall Bazaar for themed items while enjoying creative appetizers like a seafood tower and pumpkin bisque. The night includes lively reenactments and a dance party, making it a must-attend for any fantasy aficionado.

Interestingly, the popularity of romantasy has led to similar events worldwide. Events like these not only celebrate literature but also foster community among fans, significantly enhancing their reading experience.

The Starfall Ball runs from 7 PM to 11:30 PM, and tickets can be purchased on Eventbrite.

The Crown of Embers cocktail, designed for the event, evokes cozy autumn vibes.

More details here.

[Restaurants]
Celebrating 30 Years at Anna Maria Oyster Bar

Anna Maria Oyster Bar is throwing a Rollback Day on September 15, 2025, to thank the community for 30 incredible years. For one day only, favorite menu items will return to 1995 prices, like $4.99 popcorn shrimp and $2.99 drinks. This event showcases their deep roots in the Bradenton community, where they’ve been serving fresh seafood and fun since opening on the City Pier.

Such rollbacks highlight the restaurant’s appreciation for its long-time patrons and create a nostalgic dining experience. Given that many diners cherish the emotional connection with their favorite eating spots, this event promises to be memorable.

For more information, visit the Anna Maria Oyster Bar website.

[Arts & Entertainment]
Art Center Sarasota’s Centennial Season

Art Center Sarasota is reaching a milestone, celebrating 100 years of arts and community. Their Centennial Season will kick off in Fall 2025, featuring exciting exhibitions, events, and programs for all ages. Executive Director Katherine Ceaser calls it an invitation for everyone to celebrate Sarasota’s rich arts legacy as they look forward to the future.

The arts play a crucial role in community identity and cohesion. A recent survey found that 89% of residents believe art enhances their community’s quality of life. This celebration is an opportunity to reflect on how art shapes our lives and fosters connections.

Stay tuned for upcoming events and exhibitions throughout this landmark year.

Learn more here.

[Musical Events]
Jazz Thursdays at Sarasota Art Museum

Sarasota Art Museum is partnering with the Jazz Club for live jazz performances every second Thursday. This event invites music lovers to enjoy live jazz while exploring the vibrant galleries. The event supports both local musicians and the arts community, enriching Sarasota’s cultural scene.

Such community-focused events have exploded in popularity, with many music venues seeing attendance increases, as people crave in-person experiences. Events like these not only entertain but also foster interactions among attendees, creating lasting memories.

A great way to unwind after a busy week, Jazz Thursdays offer food and drinks in a lively atmosphere. Mark your calendar and embrace the rhythm!

More details here.