Michael's On East

Michael F

5 months ago

I’ve been coming to Michael’s On East for years, and I’ve always left impressed with the service and the food — though I will admit the decor was never my favorite. But wow — after last week’s remodel, everything feels refreshed and elevated. The new wallpaper, furniture, lighting, and fresh paint give the place a renewed elegance that blends beautifully with its classic charm. The staff still deliver that exceptional hospitality I’ve come to expect — warm, knowledgeable, and always attentive. And the food? Still phenomenal. What I love most about Michael’s is their Epicurean / “traveling” menu, which changes monthly and draws on global culinary inspirations. If you haven’t been in a while (or ever), now is the perfect time to rediscover Michael’s On East. The decor refresh adds a lovely visual layer to the already outstanding dining experience. Whether you come for Lobster Pot Friday, dive into the monthly Epicurean menu, or go straight for your longtime favorites, you’re in for a treat.

Charles Burns

4 months ago

We love the bar here at happy hour time. We really appreciate the experience and recommendation of Lara for the food and then Rick makes amazing drinks! The menu is constantly changing but honestly everything is delicious here no matter what you order you will not be to disappointed. Great place to go on a Friday night.

Jim Mathon

Edited 3 months ago

Fantastic night having supper at the bar. I had to duck two ways (always great) and she had the prix fixe salmon (was ok) with fried green tomatoes (delicious). Piano player at the bar really sets the ambiance. Lara was our server she was very attentive and on point. Her backup was Ryan he was kind and took care of all the little details.

Lora Lyon

a month ago

Be sure to go for happy hour before your reservation and ask Lala for drink recommendations at the bar! Our server Rachael at dinner was phenomenal and so friendly, also gave great recommendations and was never in a hurry. I’d give ten stars if I could!

Peter Anderson

a month ago

We went here for Valentine’s Day dinner. This is my third time here. The first time a few years ago was somehow not that memorable. It wasn’t bad but it didn’t leave any kind of impression and that’s maybe because my bar is so high having eaten in some of the best establishments in the country. The second time was great and while I forget exactly what I had I remember thinking that I would not hesitate going back. Now onto this occassion and the food was great. As my wife and I had a late brunch the same day we were not starving so rather that have apps we went straight for the main. Our server Eddie recommended for me the Pork Chop. I am always a little cautious when choosing pork or chicken at a restaurant in fear it will be overcooked and/or dry. Eddie assured me it would not be and told me how the chef prepared it. What’s interesting is it was one of the cheapest dishes on the menu but that didn’t stop him from recommending it. He said if I don’t like it I’ll get it for free but if I do, I’ll need to leave him a review. That sounds like a fair deal. So that’s why i’m writing this review! It really was an excellent dish. Thank you Eddie! He also recommended the chocolate lava cake for desert with a tawny port and it was a great pairing. That lava cake was the best I’ve ever had. I look forward to my fourth trip here!

Tee O

a month ago

We tried Michael’s on East for the first time on the day before Valentine’s Day. We weren’t aware that they had a limited menu due to Valentine’s, but still found options for both of us to order. We did book a reservation in advance and were seated immediately inside. There was a live pianist playing, which was a nice ambiance. Our waitress promptly came over and was extremely nice, accommodating and friendly throughout the meal. We decided to order the Phil’s Chopped Salad to start, which was great. We also each ordered filet mignon steaks and they were tender, juicy and seasoned perfectly. We loved them! For sides, this was the only aspect of the meal that was disappointing. Not due to taste, but due to the lack of gluten-free options available. There were basically mushrooms, baked potato, and caramelized sweet potatoes. We decided to just do the two potato options. The baked potato was just that - hard to make it anything special but it was a large size and came with loaded options separated on the side. Now the sweet potatoes - wow, so delicious! It was practically a dessert. For dessert, we decided to try Phil’s Disappearing Chocolate Dome and the crème brûlée. While the melting effect on the Chocolate Dome was pretty unique, it was also a bit disappointing because it didn’t really melt. At least 2/3 of the chocolate didn’t actually melt, and there was not nearly enough ice cream provided inside. The crème brûlée was much better and we did end up polishing that off and eating mostly that. Overall, we still had a positive experience with only a couple of disappointing nuances. We will likely be back for future special occasions, and would like to try the regular full menu next time.

Kellymarie Lima

Edited 5 months ago

Came in for the first time last night. We started off with the duck spring rolls and they were good. (I'm sure great I'm just not a duck or spring roll person yet I still enjoyed it) He had the beef Wellington and really enjoyed it. I had a bite and let me tell you this... You don't even need to chew it because it just melts. It was the most tender piece of beef I have ever had! The beef Wellington came deconstructed which was actually really nice since he likes his steak cooked medium. I got the sirloin and it was so flavorful! I don't normally eat all my steak when I go out but there was no way I was reheating this. My steak was al carte so we split some potatoes and creamed spinach which also was on point. Kathy was our server and she was so professional and patient as we didn't know what we wanted right away. We were also very indecisive and she helped us figure out what would be best for us. We are so thankful for this amazing experience and will be back.

Lena Liu

5 months ago

We searched Google to see if there were any Michelin-rated, high-quality restaurants nearby. Google didn't find any, but it recommended a few top restaurants in the area. Among them, Michael's On East was one we hadn't been to before. When we made a reservation, we found only outdoor tables, which were shaded by greenery. The enclosed sunroof, with twinkling lights and stars, provided an elegant and comfortable dining environment. The food is beautifully presented, the ingredients are top quality, and the chef's preparation is meticulous and thoughtful. Every bite is truly memorable. The restaurant owner Michael took the initiative to greet every table of guests, and the waiter Freddy was patient, meticulous, warm and friendly... The whole dining process was as harmonious and friendly as family. My only complaint was a mosquito bite outside. However, this didn't detract from the wonderful dining experience. Next time, I'll book a table inside. I look forward to a better experience.

Jeremy Finney

a month ago

What can I say that so many others haven't. This place is amazing. We were told by our very pleasant and attentive waitress, Lauren, that it was newly renovated and it shows. Mid 20s decor with period music and very friendly guests....many of whom appear to come frequently. I would highly recommend this establishment and, although I am sure there are many good servers, Lauren was the best.

Michael Kowalick

a month ago

This place is by far the best meal I’ve had in all of Sarasota. My server Greg was amazing and had some incredible recommendations. I simply followed his lead. We sat at a wonderful table in the inside dining room and celebrated our 1-year anniversary. We started off with some mocktails and appetizers were the Colossal Shrimp Cocktail and we split a Caesar Salad. The shrimp were indeed COLOSSAL! She had the Organic Farm Raised 16oz Prime Rib and I had the 10oz Filet Oscar. Both were perfectly cooked Medium Rare. My side I chose the Truffle Mac & Cheese, very yummy and creamy. For dessert we did the Brownie Stack and the Crème Brûlée. Again both amazing. We were happy, full, and cannot wait to do this again. Top notch experience on ALL levels.