1111 Ritz-Carlton Drive, Sarasota, Florida 34236 USA    Phone:  (941) 309-2000   Fax:  (941) 309-2100

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Local temp: 65ºF/18ºC Clear

Forecast

Calendar of Events



Anticipate the possibilities that each new day brings. Fill your days and nights with excursions, themed events, fine dining and more. Indulge in as much or as little as you please. The choice is yours.

Unless otherwise noted, all events are available exclusively to resort guests and members of The Ritz-Carlton Members Club.





  

Stone Crab Wine Dinner

Friday, November 20 2009; 7 p.m. at Vernona

Chef Greg Howe of Vernona Restaurant along with Ellen Flora, Senior Ambassador, Domaine Chandon & Newton, has created an incredible, five-course stone crab and wine pairing dinner. The evening begins with a reception and the menu includes the following Stone Crab offerings: Stone Crab Salad with Avocado, Vanilla served with 2006 Domaine Chandon Chardonnay; Vernona’s Stone Crab Popcorn Bisque Mango, Coconut served with 2006 Newton Unfiltered Chardonnay; Vitello con Granchio Veal sweetbread, Stone crab sauce served with 2007 Domaine Chandon Pinot Meunier; Stone Crab Ravioli Arugula, Red wine-crab jus served with  2005 Newton Unfiltered Cabernet Sauvignon and for dessert: Lemon Chiboust with a Strawberry sorbet and Verbena served with Chandon Riche  NV.

Cost is $110 per person, plus taxes and gratuity. Reservations are required


  

Big Cat Habitat

Saturday, November 21, 2009

Help maintain a safe haven for big cats, bears and other animals in need at Big Cat Habitat.

Sarasota lays claim as the circus capital of the world, and is the winter home to Ringling’s famed circus. Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary provides safe haven for big cats, bears and other animals in need, founded by Kay Rosaire, who hails from a circus family dynasty. You will come face-to-face with the animals as you perform any number of essential tasks including cleaning and building cages, preparing food, feeding animals and mowing grass. Volunteers must be at least 14 years of age, and must be accompanied by a parent or adult sibling if between 14 and 16.

Adult $50, child $30 (profits benefit Big Cat Habitat)

Special arrangements can be made for Big Cat Habitat for other travel dates with a 10-day notice.


  

Market Lunch

Saturday, November 21, 2009, 9 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Vernona’s Chef de Cuisine Greg Howe is so passionate about fresh products that he’s created a “Market Lunch” program to educate people about Sarasota’s finest, freshest and often organic produce. Come tour Sarasota’s Farmer’s Market where Chef Howe and learn about where he buys many of Vernona’s fresh seafood, vegetables and herbs. After the chef purchases items for the day’s three-course lunch, everyone returns to Vernona restaurant where Chef Howe shows students how to create a “from-market-to-table” lunch, right in front of their eyes. On this Saturday, Ellen Flora, Winemaker from Chandon & Newton will join the class and provide the wine as the students continue to learn about organic and local produce during the three-course lunch.

Cost is $65 per person. Reservations are required.


  

Thanksgiving

Thursday, November 26, 2009

Thanksgiving Turkeys To Go
One of Florida’s finest restaurants, Vernona, is offering Traditional Thanksgiving dinner to go for those who wish to entertain at home minus the culinary chores. This delicious holiday feast serves four to six guests and includes a Florida-style citrus-basted 10 to 12 pound Tom Turkey with gracious accompaniments.

Please contact us for complete menu. (Orders must be placed at least 48 hours in advance with pick-up between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day.)
$210, exclusive of tax and gratuity.


Vernona Thanksgiving Day Brunch

10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Gather together with family and friends to enjoy a sumptuous holiday feast including an array of fresh seafood, pate and terrine, carving stations and desserts.
$89 per adult; $110 with champagne; $25 per child (ages 4 to 12)


Vernona Thanksgiving Dinner Buffet 
4 to 9 p.m.
Enjoy a regionally-inspired, unique Thanksgiving buffet at the award-winning Vernona.
$109 per adult; $35 per child (ages 4 – 12)


The Sunset Celebration

Daily

The forecast tonight is calling for little clouds and calm seas - perfect conditions for the natural phenomenon known as the green flash. Meet us on the beach at The Members Beach Club for our nightly celebration featuring sunsets, cool drinks, bongo drumming and sand between your toes. And if you are lucky, you will see the top edge of the sun turn green for a brief moment, before disappearing below the horizon. Be sure to arrive at the beach at least one half hour early to appreciate the full effect of nature's most spectacular evening show. 

This event is available exclusively to resort guests and members of The Ritz-Carlton Members Club.


Art & History Tour

Saturdays, 3 p.m.

Ritz-Carlton Hotels are recognized worldwide not only for the quality accommodations and services they provide to guests, but for their individualized ambiance as well. The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota is no exception to this standard. We are delighted to offer guests an Art and History booklet highlighting the significant pieces in our permanent art collection in addition to details on architecture, interior design and the resort's historic legacy.

The Art & History booklet is available from the resort concierge for self-guided tours; guided tours are conducted for resort guests each Saturday at 3 pm leaving from The Lobby Lounge.

No reservations are required.



  

Mimi’s Manners Children’s Etiquette Class

Wednesday, December 2, 2009, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Children learn how to mind their Ps and Qs during a three-course, instructional and delicious dinner. Children will leave the class with manners to help them be the best-behaved kids at any holiday function. 

$80 per child ages 6 - 12


  

Cheers to the Holidays!

Friday, December 4, 2009, 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Holidays are the perfect time to raise a glass bubbly champagne. Come learn how to pick the perfect bottle for any reception, sit-down meal and of course, New Year’s Eve celebration. During the class, you’ll sample more than six different champagnes and sparkling wines.

$35 per person


  

Market Lunch: Holiday Style

Saturday, December 5, 2009, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Fresh, fabulous and festive! Join a Chef of The Ritz-Carlton as he heads to market to select the day’s menu. You’ll learn how to select and turn the best produce into delicious holiday dishes. Three-course lunch included. 

$55 per person


  

Big Cat Habitat

Wednesday, December 9, 2009

Help maintain a safe haven for big cats, bears and other animals in need at Big Cat Habitat.

Sarasota lays claim as the circus capital of the world, and is the winter home to Ringling’s famed circus. Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary provides safe haven for big cats, bears and other animals in need, founded by Kay Rosaire, who hails from a circus family dynasty. You will come face-to-face with the animals as you perform any number of essential tasks including cleaning and building cages, preparing food, feeding animals and mowing grass. Volunteers must be at least 14 years of age, and must be accompanied by a parent or adult sibling if between 14 and 16.

Adult $50, child $30 (profits benefit Big Cat Habitat)

Special arrangements can be made for Big Cat Habitat for other travel dates with a 10-day notice.


  

Breakfast with Santa

Saturday, December 12, 2009, 8 a.m.

Welcome Santa as he arrives at The Ritz-Carlton and enjoy a delicious breakfast. Young attendees will receive a special gift from Santa.

$45 per adult; $35 per child (ages 12 and under)


  

Cookie Decorating Class & Contest

Saturday, December 12, 2009, 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Come learn from the professionals during this interactive class of holiday cookie decorating. Each participant will take home a ½ dozen professionally decorated cookies (plus the ones they decorated.) Prizes for best decorated and most spirited cookie.

$35 per person


Raise Your Spirits!

Wednesday, December 16, 2009, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Toast the season with six different cocktails made with seasonal ingredients. Learn how to make fun and festive drinks from The Ritz-Carlton hotel’s expert bartenders.

$35 per person


Teddy Bear Tea

Saturday, December 19, 2009

Children of all ages will find joy this holiday season as they nibble on finger sandwiches, assorted tea cookies and sip hot chocolate. Each child will receive a keepsake Ritz-Carlton Teddy Bear.

$50 per adult; $42 per child (ages 12 and under)


  

Big Cat Habitat

Saturday, December 19, 2009

Help maintain a safe haven for big cats, bears and other animals in need at Big Cat Habitat.

Sarasota lays claim as the circus capital of the world, and is the winter home to Ringling’s famed circus. Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary provides safe haven for big cats, bears and other animals in need, founded by Kay Rosaire, who hails from a circus family dynasty. You will come face-to-face with the animals as you perform any number of essential tasks including cleaning and building cages, preparing food, feeding animals and mowing grass. Volunteers must be at least 14 years of age, and must be accompanied by a parent or adult sibling if between 14 and 16.

Adult $50, child $30 (profits benefit Big Cat Habitat)

Special arrangements can be made for Big Cat Habitat for other travel dates with a 10-day notice.


  

Vernona Christmas Eve Dinner

Thursday, December 24, 2009, 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Enjoy a regionally-inspired and unique menu prepared at the award-winning Vernona.

$115 per adult; $35 per child (ages 4 to 12)

The Private Dining Room is available for holiday parties (Capacity 16 guests.)


  

Christmas To Go

Friday, December 25, 2009

One of Florida’s finest restaurants, Vernona, is offering Christmas dinner to go for those who wish to entertain at home minus the culinary chores. This delicious holiday feast serves four to six guests and includes a Florida-style citrus-basted 10 to 12 pound Tom Turkey or a delicious ham served with gracious accompaniments.

Please contact us for complete menu. (Orders must be placed at least 48 hours in advance with pick-up between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. on Christmas Day.)

$210, exclusive of tax and gratuity.


  

Christmas Day

Friday, December 25, 2009

Vernona Christmas Day Brunch
10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Make your plans now to savor this delicious, festive feast. Enjoy an amazing assortment of delectable dishes prepared to delight event the most sophisticated of tastes.
$95 per adult; $115 with champagne; $25 per child (ages 4 to 12)

Vernona Christmas Dinner Buffet
4 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Create unforgettable memories this holiday. Vernona will serve buffet of holiday favorites, all in an elegant setting.
$115 per adult; $35 per child (ages 4 to 12)


The Sunset Celebration

Daily

The forecast tonight is calling for little clouds and calm seas - perfect conditions for the natural phenomenon known as the green flash. Meet us on the beach at The Members Beach Club for our nightly celebration featuring sunsets, cool drinks, bongo drumming and sand between your toes. And if you are lucky, you will see the top edge of the sun turn green for a brief moment, before disappearing below the horizon. Be sure to arrive at the beach at least one half hour early to appreciate the full effect of nature's most spectacular evening show. 

This event is available exclusively to resort guests and members of The Ritz-Carlton Members Club.


Art & History Tour

Saturdays, 3 p.m.

Ritz-Carlton Hotels are recognized worldwide not only for the quality accommodations and services they provide to guests, but for their individualized ambiance as well. The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota is no exception to this standard. We are delighted to offer guests an Art and History booklet highlighting the significant pieces in our permanent art collection in addition to details on architecture, interior design and the resort's historic legacy.

The Art & History booklet is available from the resort concierge for self-guided tours; guided tours are conducted for resort guests each Saturday at 3 pm leaving from The Lobby Lounge.

No reservations are required.


  

New Year's Eve

Thursday, December 31, 2009

Vernona New Year’s Eve Dinner
5:30 p.m. and 8 p.m.
A delicious dining experience at Sarasota’s only Four-Star, Four Diamond restaurant, Vernona. Come early or late - our first seating includes a fabulous three-course menu or come later and celebrate with a five-course menu. Live entertainment.
$135 per person for first seating; $300 per person for second seating

New Years Eve at Ca d’Zan Lounge
9 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Count down to the new year in style with good friends, a champagne toast at the stroke of midnight and dancing.
$55 per adult includes admission, party favors and champagne toast



  

Vernona New Year's Day Brunch

Friday, January 1, 2010, 12 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Our award-winning brunch featuring a make-Your-Own-Bloody-Mary- is worth rolling out of bed to enjoy.
$89 per adult; $25 per child (ages 4 to 12)

The Sunset Celebration

Daily

The forecast tonight is calling for little clouds and calm seas - perfect conditions for the natural phenomenon known as the green flash. Meet us on the beach at The Members Beach Club for our nightly celebration featuring sunsets, cool drinks, bongo drumming and sand between your toes. And if you are lucky, you will see the top edge of the sun turn green for a brief moment, before disappearing below the horizon. Be sure to arrive at the beach at least one half hour early to appreciate the full effect of nature's most spectacular evening show. 

This event is available exclusively to resort guests and members of The Ritz-Carlton Members Club.


Art & History Tour

Saturdays, 3 p.m.

Ritz-Carlton Hotels are recognized worldwide not only for the quality accommodations and services they provide to guests, but for their individualized ambiance as well. The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota is no exception to this standard. We are delighted to offer guests an Art and History booklet highlighting the significant pieces in our permanent art collection in addition to details on architecture, interior design and the resort's historic legacy.

The Art & History booklet is available from the resort concierge for self-guided tours; guided tours are conducted for resort guests each Saturday at 3 pm leaving from The Lobby Lounge.

No reservations are required.


  

Sundays in Vernona

Sundays, 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

The Sunday a la carte menu features a wide selection of cuisine for every appetite including chilled seafood, Belgium waffles, Eggs Benedict, and Steak & Eggs. Under “Brunch Specials” guests will find the Crab Omelet, Smoked Salmon Frittata, Quiche and more. Later diners will be delighted to find the popular “Popcorn Bisque” and the “Krispie Crusted Sole” along with the Vernona Burger, Turkey Club and other soups and salads.

Reservations are recommended.

Sample Sunday Brunch Menu



The Sunset Celebration

Daily

The forecast tonight is calling for little clouds and calm seas - perfect conditions for the natural phenomenon known as the green flash. Meet us on the beach at The Members Beach Club for our nightly celebration featuring sunsets, cool drinks, bongo drumming and sand between your toes. And if you are lucky, you will see the top edge of the sun turn green for a brief moment, before disappearing below the horizon. Be sure to arrive at the beach at least one half hour early to appreciate the full effect of nature's most spectacular evening show. 

This event is available exclusively to resort guests and members of The Ritz-Carlton Members Club.


Art & History Tour

Saturdays, 3 p.m.

Ritz-Carlton Hotels are recognized worldwide not only for the quality accommodations and services they provide to guests, but for their individualized ambiance as well. The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota is no exception to this standard. We are delighted to offer guests an Art and History booklet highlighting the significant pieces in our permanent art collection in addition to details on architecture, interior design and the resort's historic legacy.

The Art & History booklet is available from the resort concierge for self-guided tours; guided tours are conducted for resort guests each Saturday at 3 pm leaving from The Lobby Lounge.

No reservations are required.


  

Sundays in Vernona

Sundays, 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

The Sunday a la carte menu features a wide selection of cuisine for every appetite including chilled seafood, Belgium waffles, Eggs Benedict, and Steak & Eggs. Under “Brunch Specials” guests will find the Crab Omelet, Smoked Salmon Frittata, Quiche and more. Later diners will be delighted to find the popular “Popcorn Bisque” and the “Krispie Crusted Sole” along with the Vernona Burger, Turkey Club and other soups and salads.

Reservations are recommended.

Sample Sunday Brunch Menu



The Sunset Celebration

Daily

The forecast tonight is calling for little clouds and calm seas - perfect conditions for the natural phenomenon known as the green flash. Meet us on the beach at The Members Beach Club for our nightly celebration featuring sunsets, cool drinks, bongo drumming and sand between your toes. And if you are lucky, you will see the top edge of the sun turn green for a brief moment, before disappearing below the horizon. Be sure to arrive at the beach at least one half hour early to appreciate the full effect of nature's most spectacular evening show. 

This event is available exclusively to resort guests and members of The Ritz-Carlton Members Club.


Art & History Tour

Saturdays, 3 p.m.

Ritz-Carlton Hotels are recognized worldwide not only for the quality accommodations and services they provide to guests, but for their individualized ambiance as well. The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota is no exception to this standard. We are delighted to offer guests an Art and History booklet highlighting the significant pieces in our permanent art collection in addition to details on architecture, interior design and the resort's historic legacy.

The Art & History booklet is available from the resort concierge for self-guided tours; guided tours are conducted for resort guests each Saturday at 3 pm leaving from The Lobby Lounge.

No reservations are required.



The Sunset Celebration

Daily

The forecast tonight is calling for little clouds and calm seas - perfect conditions for the natural phenomenon known as the green flash. Meet us on the beach at The Members Beach Club for our nightly celebration featuring sunsets, cool drinks, bongo drumming and sand between your toes. And if you are lucky, you will see the top edge of the sun turn green for a brief moment, before disappearing below the horizon. Be sure to arrive at the beach at least one half hour early to appreciate the full effect of nature's most spectacular evening show. 

This event is available exclusively to resort guests and members of The Ritz-Carlton Members Club.


Art & History Tour

Saturdays, 3 p.m.

Ritz-Carlton Hotels are recognized worldwide not only for the quality accommodations and services they provide to guests, but for their individualized ambiance as well. The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota is no exception to this standard. We are delighted to offer guests an Art and History booklet highlighting the significant pieces in our permanent art collection in addition to details on architecture, interior design and the resort's historic legacy.

The Art & History booklet is available from the resort concierge for self-guided tours; guided tours are conducted for resort guests each Saturday at 3 pm leaving from The Lobby Lounge.

No reservations are required.



The Sunset Celebration

Daily

The forecast tonight is calling for little clouds and calm seas - perfect conditions for the natural phenomenon known as the green flash. Meet us on the beach at The Members Beach Club for our nightly celebration featuring sunsets, cool drinks, bongo drumming and sand between your toes. And if you are lucky, you will see the top edge of the sun turn green for a brief moment, before disappearing below the horizon. Be sure to arrive at the beach at least one half hour early to appreciate the full effect of nature's most spectacular evening show. 

This event is available exclusively to resort guests and members of The Ritz-Carlton Members Club.


Art & History Tour

Saturdays, 3 p.m.

Ritz-Carlton Hotels are recognized worldwide not only for the quality accommodations and services they provide to guests, but for their individualized ambiance as well. The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota is no exception to this standard. We are delighted to offer guests an Art and History booklet highlighting the significant pieces in our permanent art collection in addition to details on architecture, interior design and the resort's historic legacy.

The Art & History booklet is available from the resort concierge for self-guided tours; guided tours are conducted for resort guests each Saturday at 3 pm leaving from The Lobby Lounge.

No reservations are required.



The Sunset Celebration

Daily

The forecast tonight is calling for little clouds and calm seas - perfect conditions for the natural phenomenon known as the green flash. Meet us on the beach at The Members Beach Club for our nightly celebration featuring sunsets, cool drinks, bongo drumming and sand between your toes. And if you are lucky, you will see the top edge of the sun turn green for a brief moment, before disappearing below the horizon. Be sure to arrive at the beach at least one half hour early to appreciate the full effect of nature's most spectacular evening show. 

This event is available exclusively to resort guests and members of The Ritz-Carlton Members Club.


Art & History Tour

Saturdays, 3 p.m.

Ritz-Carlton Hotels are recognized worldwide not only for the quality accommodations and services they provide to guests, but for their individualized ambiance as well. The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota is no exception to this standard. We are delighted to offer guests an Art and History booklet highlighting the significant pieces in our permanent art collection in addition to details on architecture, interior design and the resort's historic legacy.

The Art & History booklet is available from the resort concierge for self-guided tours; guided tours are conducted for resort guests each Saturday at 3 pm leaving from The Lobby Lounge.

No reservations are required.



  

Savor Summer Menu at Vernona

July, August and September from 6 p.m.

To celebrate the summer season, Vernona restaurant is offering an elegant three-course tasting menu for $35 which features the freshest and most flavorful ingredients our local and regional farmers are producing. Presented by Vernona Chef de Cuisine Greg Howe, the Savor Summer menu provides a choice of appetizer, entrée and dessert, allowing guests to design their own gourmet experience.

A different Savor Summer menu will be introduced each month from July through September and will be offered in additional to Vernona’a award-winning dinner menu. Tax, tip and beverages are not included in prix fixe price.  Vernona is open for dinner from 6 p.m. each evening.

Click here to view the Savor Summer menu. 

Reservations are recommended, please call (941) 309.2008.


The Sunset Celebration

Daily

The forecast tonight is calling for little clouds and calm seas - perfect conditions for the natural phenomenon known as the green flash. Meet us on the beach at The Members Beach Club for our nightly celebration featuring sunsets, cool drinks, bongo drumming and sand between your toes. And if you are lucky, you will see the top edge of the sun turn green for a brief moment, before disappearing below the horizon. Be sure to arrive at the beach at least one half hour early to appreciate the full effect of nature's most spectacular evening show. 

This event is available exclusively to resort guests and members of The Ritz-Carlton Members Club.


Art & History Tour

Saturdays, 3 p.m.

Ritz-Carlton Hotels are recognized worldwide not only for the quality accommodations and services they provide to guests, but for their individualized ambiance as well. The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota is no exception to this standard. We are delighted to offer guests an Art and History booklet highlighting the significant pieces in our permanent art collection in addition to details on architecture, interior design and the resort's historic legacy.

The Art & History booklet is available from the resort concierge for self-guided tours; guided tours are conducted for resort guests each Saturday at 3 pm leaving from The Lobby Lounge.

No reservations are required.


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