Darwin's on 4th

foodies come here. done and done.

I usually don't write reviews...but I've had two great experiences at darwin's and I'm compelled to share!

Can't say enough good things about the place.  What drew me in was that they brew their own beer, but what surprised me (and got me back, parents in tow) was the food.  I was simply amazed.  The unbelievably addictive bite-sized parm biscuits they set on your table set the tone for the kind of meal you're in for.  

For apps I've only tried the lime chili chicken wings (not sure what the name is on the menu)...crazy good.  

For entrees I've tried the skirt steak and the arctic char...first was remarkably tasty and the arctic char was out of this world.  Never had anything like it.

The ambience is the best you'll find in sarasota.  Spanish (classical? colonial?) decor.  It seems to be in some kind of historic building.  I think it was the old citrus exchange if I remember correctly.  

The staff was top-notch.  They were gracious in accommodating my parents who are...on the old side :)  My dad's a little hard of hearing, and one of the staff was very nice when I asked if it would be possible to turn the house music down a little.   Enrique humored my mother's insane dietary restrictions and my dad's preference for overcooked meat.  And they both raved about their meals.  And let me just say, these people are hard to please.  

For dessert I've tried the tres leches.  Rich and delicious, and not too big (which is good because I was a little full after my entree but really wanted to try it).

As for the beer...I did a flight on my first visit and found the ayawasca to be the most flavorful and distinct (you will like this if you like belgians).  The summerdaze IPA was decent, and the others I'd rate as just average.   I'd like to see them do a hoppier beer like a double or imperial IPA.  I bet they'd do a nice job.

The food is the reason to go to darwin's.  Though the ambience, staff and the beer make it even better.  It's not cheap.  I usually bemoan paying more than $20 for an entree.  But this is one of the rare cases when it truly is worth it.  I will go there again and recommend it in a heartbeat.

Really, really good. Huge portions, inventive cocktails, and yummy apps. Why are you still reading this?? Go!