FRENCH RESTAURANT REVIEW SARASOTA FLORIDA (MIGUEL’S)

Miguel’s Restaurant was founded in September 1983 by Miguel Garcia, a native of Málaga, Spain. Before opening Miguel’s, he gathered experience in France (particularly in the Burgundy region) and also lived in Canada. His vision was to create a restaurant that had French cuisine at its core but with broad continental influences — especially Spanish — reflecting his background.

Today the restaurant is run by his sons, Gabriel Garcia (executive chef and sommelier) and Daniel Garcia (general manager). Both learned the business under their father; Gabriel trained at Johnson & Wales University in culinary arts, then worked in Europe, while Daniel focused on the business side, front-of-house service, and customer experience.

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Location, Ambiance & Décor

Miguel’s is located at 6631 Midnight Pass Road, Siesta Key, Sarasota, FL 34242, in Crescent Plaza, just south of Stickney Point Road.

Though it sits in a strip plaza (unassuming from the outside), stepping inside transports diners into an “old-world” European setting. The décor features dark wood, stained glass windows (with scenes like sun over water or sailing), glowing chandeliers, rich lighting, and plants that add warmth. The seating is somewhat close together but cozy, with white cloth table settings and formal touches, balanced with a comfortable, homey feel. Tableside service is a highlight (e.g. Caesar salad tableside, Chateaubriand carved in front of guests).

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Cuisine & Menu Highlights

The food at Miguel’s bridges French classical techniques with continental variety and local influence (like Gulf seafood). Some signature and popular dishes include:
• Tableside Caesar Salad — highly recommended by many patrons.
• Chateaubriand Bouquetière — 20-ounce USDA Prime center-cut filet, served with béarnaise and peppercorn sauce, carved tableside with an array of vegetables.
• Duck à l’Orange, escargot, rack of lamb — French classics Miguel’s is known for.
• Seafood specials — with access to fresh Gulf catch; creative specials often highlight local fish or shellfish.
• Early-bird specials (for diners earlier in the evening) are part of their draw.

Desserts are also a point of pride; things like Banana Foster, Crêpes Suzette, and other flambé or tableside preparations are part of the charm.

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Service, Reputation & Unique Traits
• Miguel’s has consistently been praised for combining refined, formal dining elements with genuine warmth and personal service. The family-run nature is evident in the way Gabriel, Daniel, and their staff interact with patrons.
• One of their standout features is tableside service — not just for salads but also for large meat entrees that are carved in front of customers. This adds to both the atmosphere and the experience.
• The wine list is thoughtful and curated; Gabriel’s background as a sommelier is leveraged to offer selections you might not find elsewhere locally.

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Practical Info
• Hours: Open for dinner daily (typically around 5 p.m. until close).
• Reservations are encouraged, especially for weekend nights or during peak tourist season.
• Price range: $$-$$$ — mid-to-upper depending on what you order (higher for steaks, premium meats, seafood, special tableside entrees).
• Gluten-friendly options: The restaurant has been noted by patrons (including those with celiac) as having several gluten-free friendly dishes. Staff are reported to be knowledgeable about menu items and safety. However, it’s not a fully dedicated gluten-free facility.

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