FL Restaurant Openings, Closings: 131 Main, Chick-Fil-A, Orchid SRQ, Bulla Gastropub

SARASOTA-BRADENTON, FL — Check out the latest bar and restaurant news in the Sarasota and Bradenton areas:

North Carolina-Based Steak and Seafood Chain Opens

131 Main, a North Carolina-based steak and seafood chain, recently opened a new location in Lakewood Ranch — its first restaurant in Florida.

“Our newest addition to the 131 Main family is in Lakewood Ranch, Florida. This brand-new building has a white stucco exterior and warm inviting interior spaces, all with the modern Alys Beach, Florida vibe,” according to the company’s website. “The interior includes not only a great space to dine but also provides an option to enjoy patio dining that can be open or closed depending on the weather.”

The new restaurant is located at 6608 University Parkway. It’s open daily, from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Sunday through Thursday, and from 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., Friday and Saturday.

New Chick-fil-A Planned in Manatee County

A new Chick-fil-A is being planned in Manatee County.

Paperwork for a Chick-fil-A in the Seaire community that is being developed in Parrish near the Moccasin Wallow Road and Carter Road intersection was recently filed with Manatee County Development Services, according to the Bradenton Herald.

The 3,195-home community, being built just east of Interstate 75, will feature a man-made lagoon and commercial areas. Businesses currently listed in association with the development include Texas Roadhouse, Glory Days, Wendy’s, Slim Chickens and Aldi.

Orchid SRQ Supper Club Makes Debut

Orchid SRQ, a supper club that offers a multi-course, high-end tasting menu with wine pairings in private homes, has made its debut, the Sarasota Herald-Tribune reported.

Two college friends with experience in the hospitality and culinary fields, Ted Wilson and Trevor Perkins, founded the chef-led supper club. They first tested the concept last summer with pop-up dinners for friends and others in the hospitality industry.

“We kept finding ourselves leaving Sarasota to celebrate birthdays or anniversaries,” Wilson said. “That didn’t sit right. We wanted something worth staying for.”

According to the company’s website, “Our menus are designed with creativity and freshness in mind, changing frequently to reflect the vibrant seasons and the bounty provided by local farms, fishermen and ranchers. Our culinary team takes pride in showcasing the best of what is available, crafting dishes that not only highlight seasonal ingredients but also celebrate the flavors of our community.”

Miami-Based Modern Spanish Restaurant Chain to Open in UTC

A Miami area-based chain is opening a new location in University Town Center’s West District, the Bradenton Herald reported.

Bulla Gastrobar will offer a modern Spanish menu, including shareable tapas, paellas, cheeses and cured meats.

The chain has locations across four states: Florida, Georgia, North Carolina and Texas.