south central florida culinary excursion

[johnny34203]

Looking to take my wife on a culinary vacation! We are from Sarasota and are looking to travel south/central Florida to experience unique dining and local cuisines. We will be setting a trip up for beginning of August. Looking for help planning which areas to visit. We are open to any suggestions. We enjoy upscale/fine dining as well as hidden gems and "hole in the wall" joints with great food. Thanks in advance for your replies!

[sunshine842]

sorry -- south-central is where? (In my mind, I'm getting Clewiston...but not sure that's what you mean)

[johnny34203]

Basically from Clearwater straight east to the Atlantic and south of that. Pretty broad area I know, but we dont mind driving for hours for the right place.

[sunshine842]

but that takes up fully half the state -- including Orlando, Tampa, Ft Myers, and Miami..... far MORE than half the state if you're going on a population basis.

[johnny34203]

The point of my request was to get responses from locals around this large area. For instance, you could tell me your favorites in your area, someone from another area can tell me their favorites, ect...