Posted on May 30, 2025
The Best of Sarasota Surrounds The Quay Waterfront Harbor
Sarasota Magazine recently revealed its much-anticipated Best of Sarasota 2025 honors, and the accolades read like a curated walking-itinerary for future residents of The Quay Waterfront District and the forthcoming Ritz-Carlton Residences, Sarasota Bay. From sunrise strolls beneath banyan canopies to sunset cocktails high above the city lights, every winner is only moments away.
A Dozen Award-Winning Neighbors
Best New Restaurant – Ocean Prime
Steps from our Presentation Gallery, Ocean Prime marries Gulf-fresh seafood with prime-aged steaks and a Champagne-soaked raw bar—perfect for celebratory dinners after a day on the water.
Best Hotel – The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota
A beacon of impeccable service and coastal sophistication, the flagship hotel stands sentinel to The Quay Harbor and is part of the greatest concentration of Ritz-Carlton branded venues in the world, right here in Sarasota.
Best Beach – Siesta Key Beach
Just a short drive over the John Ringling Causeway, Siesta’s quartz-fine sand—cool even under Florida’s midday sun—has again been lauded as the nation’s finest. Lido Key Beach received runner up honors, and both are accessible by bicycle from The Quay.
Best Library – Selby Library
An architectural landmark in downtown’s arts district, Selby Library offers quiet alcoves, maker studios and rotating cultural exhibits—ideal for leisurely afternoons of discovery.
Best Rooftop Bar – The Westin
Twelve stories above the bayfront, The Westin’s rooftop lounge frames watercolor sunsets with craft cocktails and a gentle Gulf breeze. The Westin was also developed by Kolter Urban, the visionary team behind The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Sarasota Bay.
Best Public Park – Bayfront
The Bay Park offers fifty-three acres of revitalized shoreline, winding mangrove boardwalks and event lawns creating an emerald welcome mat at The Quay’s front door. Second only to the Bayfront Park near Marina Jacks, The Bay Sarasota was recognized for its energetic rhythm of endless activity including morning yoga classes, a pet-friendly trail system and popular open-air concerts.
Best Festival – Chalk Festival
Each autumn, master street artists transform pavement into fleeting masterpieces, turning the city into an open-air gallery that celebrates imagination and community. The Chalk Festival is a local favorite with international appeal.
Best Spa – The Ritz-Carlton
Indulgence becomes ritual at the award-winning spa where Balinese-inspired treatments, eucalyptus steam rooms and a healing saltwater pool rejuvenate body and spirit.
Best Farmers Market – Sarasota Farmers Market
Every Saturday since 1979, more than 80 purveyors gather downtown with heirloom produce, stone-baked breads and artisan cheeses—an epicurean prelude to weekend entertaining.
Best Art Gallery – Palm Avenue Fine Art
Just a short walk from The Quay lies Gallery Row, where a salon of plein-air landscapes and contemporary masterworks, reflect the city’s vibrant collector culture. Congratulations to Palm Avenue Fine Art for its recognition as the best of the best.
Best Cocktail Bar – State Street Eating House & Cocktails
An intimate hideaway where barrel-aged Manhattans and house-infused spirits await discerning aficionados after twilight performances at the nearby theaters.
To explore the magazine’s complete list, click here.
An Enviable New Address on Sarasota Bay
The Quay’s mosaic of award-winning experiences foretells the arrival of its newest addition, The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Sarasota Bay. Rising now at the harbor’s edge, the 20-story tower by Kolter Urban will deliver 78 grand waterfront residences in 2026, each highlighted by the legendary service synonymous with The Ritz-Carlton.
At the heart of the residential enclave will be The Harbor Club—a 20,000 sq ft. private sanctuary of wellness, fitness and social venues, designed exclusively for owners. From its waterfront local along the bayfront promenade, The Harbor Club will provide exceptional gathering spaces for wellness, sports and entertainment. From contemporary designed vitality plunge pools and spa treatment rooms to the cognac library and tech-forward sports simulator, every amenity is conceived as a seamless extension of home.
Demand has been extraordinary for the three- and four-bedroom plus den residences and penthouses, priced from $3.8 million. Private presentations of the residential offering are offered at the newly unveiled Presentation Gallery, located adjacent to Ocean Prime. The expansive Gallery showcases a full-scale designer kitchen, owner’s spa-like bath and bespoke custom closets—all providing an enjoyable preview of the luxe finishes awaiting future homeowners.
Discover Life at The Quay Waterfront District
There is a palpable energy within The Quay Waterfront District—an elegant confluence of art, nature and culinary culture that mirrors the prestigious honors bestowed by Sarasota Magazine. For those who appreciate being surrounded by the “best of Sarasota”, The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Sarasota Bay awaits.
To explore floorplans and availability, visit TheResidencesSarasotaBay.com or call 941-499-8704 to arrange a personal introduction at our Presentation Gallery. Reserved parking is conveniently available adjacent to the “best new restaurant in Sarasota,” Ocean Prime. Click to preview the virtual tour of the community—the heart of The Quay Sarasota.
The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Sarasota Bay are not owned, developed or sold by Marriott International, Inc. or its affiliates (“Ritz-Carlton”). KT Sarasota South, LLC uses The Ritz-Carlton marks under a license from Ritz-Carlton, which has not confirmed the accuracy of any of the statements or representations made herein.
