Reef Cakes - Sarasota

Great local gem. We had the El Jefe appetizer and it was nothing short of amazing. It is heavy though, can easily satisfy four people for an appetizer. But oh man is it worth it! The concept behind reef cakes is genius. I had the salmon cakes and they were seasoned perfectly with ginger and Asian inspired spices. The noodles served with the meal were not normal noodles. They were served in a peanut sauce that complimented the pallet exquisitely. No one in our party had a bad experience although we all ordered different cakes. Beer selection was OK, could definitely have been improved. Ambiance was good with more of a local feel but accommodating and friendly to strangers. The service was very good with multiple people checking on us and ensuring that our meal was not wanting. Can’t wait to go back for more Jefe and to try some new reef cakes!

First I will start with if this place isn't on your radar then you need to add it right now. Food was absolutely amazing and the service was great as well. The chef came out and said hello and asked how our meal was and it was really good. I had the fish tacos and street corn and they were very tasty. My wife and friend has the salmon with fried pineapple and it was very good. Yes I had to sample it. Desert was key lime pie with strawberry drizzle and coffee. Great atmosphere with the wall art and open setting and we will be back next time we are in town.

I stopped by reef cakes with a group of friends. We all enjoyed our meals and they were delicious. Appetizers were also top notch. Everything was freshly cooked and you could tell that the food was fresh as well. The owner/chef made a mistake while cooking our meal and caused us to wait an additional 20 minutes and came out and covered our entire groups bill. Some of the best service at a restaurant I have ever received as well as one of the best in the Sarasota area.

10/10 wood recommend. I’m not a seafood person but my husband definitely is so I hate it when places focus on seafood and all non seafood items are just an afterthought. Not at all with Reef Cakes!The place has a super cool casual but upscale young costal vibe, great menu selection and phenomenal staff!My husband got the Bubbas shrimp burger (the sauce is boss) and I got the West Palm Beach with chicken-SO GOOD!We shared the key lime pie for dessert and holy cow! Honestly the whipped cream was the show stopper for me! Amazing flavor.

This is a small restaurant that has excellent food. It is on the street and very noisy. There is a bar next door which was patronized by a woman whose voice was loud enough to shatter glass. We enjoyed the food, but won't go back because between the bar and the football game playing inside the restaurant, we could hardly hear ourselves talk.