Picture this: you’ve spent the day lounging on Siesta Beach, toes in the powdery sand, and now you’re craving a cold drink and a hearty meal with a view. That’s when I head to The Old Salty Dog, a Sarasota gem that’s been serving up coastal vibes since opening its first location in Siesta Key Village in 1985.
With three locations—Siesta Key, City Island, and Venice—this iconic spot is a must-visit for locals, snowbirds, and tourists seeking Sarasota waterfront dining. Whether you’re after a cold drink, a famous beer-battered hot dog, or a dog-friendly restaurant to bring your pup, The Old Salty Dog blends British pub charm with Florida’s laid-back coastal spirit.
The Famous Salty Dog & Tasty Eats
The Old Salty Dog is best known for its namesake dish: the Salty Dog, a quarter-pound hot dog dipped in beer batter and fried to golden perfection. Go all out with the “Fully Loaded Salty Dog,” piled high with sauerkraut, bacon, grilled onions, mushrooms, and four cheeses (American, cheddar, pepper jack, and Swiss) over a bed of fries. It’s a messy, delicious masterpiece that’s been featured on Man v. Food! The menu doesn’t stop there, offering a variety of pub favorites and seafood dishes, including:
- Seafood Favorites: Fresh grouper sandwiches, English-style fish and chips with cod, and peel-and-eat shrimp, perfect for soaking up that waterfront vibe.
- Burgers & More: Juicy burgers, Philly cheesesteaks, and crab cake sandwiches for when you’re craving something hearty.
- Starters: Conch fritters, coconut shrimp with sweet chili sauce, and onion rings to kick off your meal.
- Salads: The Siesta Key salad with grilled shrimp or chicken, packed with corn, dried cranberries, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber in a light Greek dressing.
I love hitting the Siesta Key location after a day at the beach—the open-air seating and friendly staff make it feel like the ultimate Florida hangout, with a menu that’s all about Gulf Coast flavor. Check out the full Siesta Key menu, City Island menu, or Venice menu for all the delicious details.
Drinks to Keep It Chill
No beachside meal is complete without a refreshing drink, and The Old Salty Dog’s full bar has you covered. From tropical cocktails to ice-cold beers, there’s something for everyone:
- Cocktails: Try the signature Salty Dog (grapefruit vodka, lemonade, and ruby red grapefruit juice with a salted rim) or Jimmy Buffett’s Attitude Margarita, a nod to island vibes.
- Beers: A mix of local craft brews and classics like Boddingtons or Guinness to pair with your meal.
- Non-Alcoholic: Fresh lemonades, iced teas, and mocktails for kids or anyone keeping it alcohol-free.
Pro tip: Grab a Salty Dog cocktail to sip while watching the sunset—it’s the perfect way to lean into that Sarasota coastal life! See the drink options on the Siesta Key menu, City Island menu, or Venice menu.
Dog-Friendly & Family-Friendly Vibes
The Old Salty Dog lives up to its name with a warm welcome for pups. All locations offer outdoor seating where your dog can join you, complete with water bowls and treats to keep your furry friend happy. Families are just as welcome, with a kids’ menu featuring hot dogs, chicken tenders, and fish sticks to please the little ones.
Sarasota’s Coastal Heart
The Old Salty Dog captures Sarasota’s laid-back, waterfront soul. The Siesta Key location, steps from the powdery sands of Siesta Beach, is all about that island life. City Island, overlooking New Pass and Sarasota Bay, offers views of boats and wildlife that make every meal feel special. The Venice spot, near the Circus Bridge on the Intracoastal Waterway, brings the same nautical charm to south county. Each location blends British pub roots with Florida’s coastal spirit, creating a fun, welcoming spot for everyone.
Visit The Old Salty Dog
Whether you’re winding down after a beach day, sipping a cocktail by the water, or bringing your pup for a treat, The Old Salty Dog delivers. The friendly staff, killer views, and tasty menu make it a Sarasota favorite. Stop by, try the famous Salty Dog, and check out their social media (@oldsaltydog on Instagram) for updates on specials and live music, like The Relics at the Venice location on Wednesdays!
Siesta Key Location
Address: 5023 Ocean Blvd, Sarasota, FL 34242
Phone: (941) 349-0158
Email: siesta@theoldsaltydog.com
Website: theoldsaltydog.com
Hours: Open daily, 11 AM to 9 PM
Menu: Siesta Key Menu
City Island Location
Address: 1601 Ken Thompson Pkwy, Sarasota, FL 34236
Phone: (941) 388-4311
Email: cityisland@theoldsaltydog.com
Website: theoldsaltydog.com
Hours: Mon–Thu 11 AM to 9 PM, Fri–Sun 7:30 AM to 9 PM (breakfast served Fri–Sun 7:30 AM to 10:30 AM)
Menu: City Island Menu
Venice Location
Address: 1475 S Tamiami Trail, Venice, FL 34285
Phone: (941) 483-1000
Email: venice@theoldsaltydog.com
Website: theoldsaltydog.com
Hours: Open daily, 11 AM to 9 PM
Menu: Venice Menu
Holiday Hours (All Locations):
- Thanksgiving: Closed
- Christmas Eve: Last orders into kitchen TBD
- Christmas Day: Closed
- New Year’s Eve: Last orders into kitchen 7:30 PM
- New Year’s Day: Regular hours
Plan Your Visit Today
From its famous Salty Dog to its dog-friendly patios, The Old Salty Dog is the perfect spot for a memorable meal in Sarasota. Grab a gift card online at theoldsaltydog.com for a friend or pick up some Salty Dog merchandise, like t-shirts and hats, to show your love for this local gem.
Share your favorite menu item or waterfront moment in the comments, and tag @oldsaltydog on Instagram to join the conversation! Ready to dig into some coastal flavor? Visit one of their locations and experience Sarasota’s waterfront dining at its best.