This is our go to place where the food is always excellent and we feel welcomed by Arthur the proprietor and dessert genius. Small but interesting menu that changes often based on current fresh ingredients. Went the other night and split the 4lb lobster it was possibly the best we have eve had.
(5)
Jim M.
We've enjoyed both inside and patio dining at Pamona. The food is delicious, the wine and cocktail list extensive, the service exceptional, and the ambience is semi-formal but relaxed in this gem of local establishments. Recently we ordered the cheese plate, beet salad, grouper tempura small plate and the Italian Shellfish Pasta. All were flavorful. Arthur and his team are very cordial and professional. We had a show at the Asolo and were running a little behind, and they accommodated us and got us out the door on time. Our server was terrific. She was knowledgeable and right there when we needed her to be. Overall, the prices are very reasonable. If it is cool enough, the patio is a nice option. It's usually empty and is a relatively quiet place to dine or just to sit ad enjoy a cocktail.
(5)
MICHELE S.
Arthur Lopes is not only the pastry chef extraordinaire/owner of Pomona Bistro, he is an artist and his two dining rooms are his canvases. Arthur warmly greets his guests at the door and places them strategically. His welcoming persona sets the tone for a delightful evening. Arthur seems to know everyone and makes all his guests feel SPECIAL and right at home. The food at Pomona is consistently DELICIOUS thanks to Executive Chef Ryan Boeve and his sous chef Isaac. Chef Ryan continues to change up and tweak this already very eclectic menu of small and large plates. Upon our most recent visit, we enjoyed the bistro and romaine salads which were both dressed perfectly and as a main course we had the venison and the "sous vide" veal tenderloin which was multi layered in taste and consistency. The veal was moist and tender topped with crispy sweetbreads all placed on a bed of creamy risotto. This dish was truly A DELIGHT to the senses. BRAVO Chef Ryan! All the wait staff, Billy at the bar, Emily, Ann, George, Marianna, and, I may well have forgotten someone, is phenomenally professional and knowledgeable, and helps make an evening at Pomona more than just a dinner. IT'S A MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE!!
(5)
Alex M.
Great cocktails, great food, personal service, and the desserts are fantastic. I wouldn't recommend the 3 course prix menu unless you're not very hungry, portions are petite at best. The chocolate souffle is worth the calories (it's quite large) as is the creme brule which is maybe the best I've ever had.
(5)
Matthew B.
This was our first visit to Pomona and unfortunately the experience was not really very good, nor was it good for other diners around us. Perhaps it was due to a large party in the adjoining room, but we experienced long delays for everything and the food didn't really stand out, making this experience mediocre at best. After being seated we waited approximately 10 minutes for the server (who was very nice) to come to our table to take our drink orders, simply for a couple glasses of wine. I had to ask after another 10 minutes where they were. Our table neighbors faired worse. They were seated just after us and had not been served even water for 20 minutes. They got up and left even though the manager attempted to placate them. The diners on the other side of us also complained repeatedly, asking where their food was etc. The food was ok but not outstanding. Wife had the mixed seafood with homemade pasta. The seafood was prepared correctly, but the dish lacked flavor. She also had the beet salad which was reported as being very good. I had the pan roasted chicken and it was nothing to write home about. It was done fine, but also lacked flavor. We both had to use salt, which is somewhat unusual for us. I started with the French onion soup and it was also fine but not the best I've had and was fairly meager for $10. We skipped dessert as the meal didn't really warrant it. With the items listed above and 4 quartinos of wine between us, the check was over $120. The restaurant had a nice atmosphere, and the service staff were friendly. Unfortunately the straightforward food didn't justify the price, and the slow pace likely due to attention paid to a large party made for an unpleasant experience for us and others near us. This was our first and last visit to Pomona.
(3)
Nadia Z.
I was impressed with this hidden gem in Sarasota. Business dinner turned nothing but exquisite event. Perfect temperature wine was shared. Three-course pre-fix menu to satisfy all the picky eaters. Great desserts. I had beets with goat cheese for the appetiser, which was awesome - I do love beets, and those were roasted nicely. Main course, veal with crispy sweetbreads, corn, pearl onions and saffron sauce was just delicious, and veal was cooked just like it supposed to - pink and tender. Dessert, lemon tart, was noting less than amazing. Highly recommend - for special night out, event or party, this is great place!
(5)
DeAnna L.
We had a nice date at the bar here. Love the food and excellent customer service. Creative menu. I will go back and try the outdoor patio. Beautiful decor and a wonderful fine dining experience. We ended up meeting the owner, he was so nice and friendly. He showed us into the back so we could see the secrete painting of Pumona- "The Goddess of Fruitful Abundance." We had a wonderful evening. Our friends told us about the place, glad they did.
Lovely dining. Beautiful restaurant with great attention to detail. Billy creates specialty drinks. A wonderful assortment of the usual along with some of his own creations which are truly sensational. Might I recommend his Pear Martini? All the dishes are beautifully prepared and delicious. This evening was Feb 13, Pre Valentine's Day, with a very relaxed, sophisticated crowd. Patricia was our server. She is what makes a dining experience not only perfect but exceptional and memorable. A truly special evening. Patty Lane Miller
(5)
S S.
Great meal here tonight: quail app, then snapper and halibut. (Good meat and veggie options also.) All excellent, nice wines by the glass and friendly, professional service. Beautiful dining room and nice outdoor space also if weather cooperates. Go here, you'll be glad you did.
(5)
Joann D.
Wow! Culinary delight! Incredible range of flavors! The charcuterie plate was not only tasty and with a lot of variety but a lovely sight as well. We can recommend the veal, grouper and duck. And a comprehensive wine selection with pretty good pricing! Arthur's cheery personality is welcoming and shows a real commitment to his patrons. JoAnn D
(5)
Amelia B.
Pamona is one of our favorite local restaurants! We have been following these two culinary geniuses around Sarasota over 10 years! Pamona has an amazing, unique menu of culinary delights. I am not a dessert lover but when I dine at Pamona I am sure try one of Chef Arthur's sweet creations! Chef Ryan never disappoints with fresh seafood and game. This small local bistro is a refreshing change from the cooperate giants found locally!
(5)
sandra M.
Nice surroundings but don't expect to leave 'satisfied.' The small plate of Elk - $18.00 is truly just that - three small cuts of tender Elk on some nondescript vegetable that came out lau warm at best. The beet salad had four thin slices of beets with scattered goat cheese over very mushy lettuce and I have no idea what the dressing was. My husband was satisfied with his Flat Iron steak but there was nothing exceptional with the seasonings and the fries were cold. None of the plates came out with any kind of pleasing presentation. Our check was $100.00 and we both came home hungry. PS: They don't seem to filter the water - so be on the safe side and order bottled water.
(2)
Sally B.
Just had a belated birthday dinner at Pomona. Started out with the chirzo plate and "warm" olive starters. Absolutely fabulous! Had the duck confit and sea scallops with ravoli for dinner. Service was spectacular! Love when the wait staff actually serves your wine with, not after dinner. Had the mascarpone with maple syrup, espresso and cappuccino for dessert. Best dinner ever. Will be back!
(5)
Sonia S.
Excellent service. Very good food. Portions are beautifully though sometimes surprisingly small. Try the cheese plate for dessert.
In a word.....Divine! I finally snuck in here on a weeknight with a girlfriend to have dinner. We were early and were given a table but otherwise the room was booked. This is a wonderful and intimate space with an outside patio that's perfect during a Sarasota winter. My friend and I shared the Salmon small plate for a starter. I ordered a special: Mediterranean Sea Bass stuffed with greens and grilled while my friend ordered the Scallop entree. Both were excellent following the wonderful Salmon small plate. We finished off the evening with the Grand Marnier Souffle. Everything was top notch and the menu left me looking forward to my next visit. One of the owners waited on us and it was truly a pleasure. I think he would have stayed at our table and talked about food with us all night long. Definitely an example of his pride in ownership. The sommelier was equally wonderful as was everyone else we came n contact with. Very attentive staff. A must try! Enjoy!
Food was exquisite. The service absolutely perfect - there when you need it, not when you don't, water & wine glasses always full. If they have the Grand Marnier Souffle as a dessert special then it is a must, as is the regular menu item Maple Cheesecake. Cannot recommend strongly enough. My new favorite restaurant.
(5)
Elena C.
I love this restaurant. It is so nice to eat at a place where the food is so good, the ambiance comfortable and the service is impeccable. The decor is understated and cozy. When I sit at the table I don't want to leave. I ordered a salad with pear and greens, it was delicious and for my entree the flatiron steak, it was delicious, perfectly prepared, exact temperature, the fries were delicious. My husband had the duck confit which was incredible and the lamb chops too. I had a taste of my friend's sweetbreads which were very well prepared. This is one of the best restaurants on the West Coast of Florida.
Super yummy. Fresh ingredients, thoughtful menu, great service. Definitely one of the best spots in town. Love sitting outside by the fire on cool nights.
(5)
Greg R.
We had dinner at Pomona on Friday night and absolutely loved it. It is a lovely space, understated, with high ceilings and plenty of room between tables. I don't know what all the talk on the sites regarding snootiness is about, but the owner, sommelier and other staff were knowledgeable, professional and passionate about the menu, including where and how various proteins on the menu were raised. The Jerusalem artichoke soup (no cream) was fantastic, really distilled the flavor of the tuber down to perfection. The best mussels we had ever tasted, including one in our party who orders them just about anytime they are available on a menu. The steak was cooked perfectly, with a buttery texture that almost didn't require and knife and fantastic "duck-fat" fries (which did not come with the dish but which the waiter was happy to substitute). The coup de grace was the antelope which itself was just fabulous and not at all gamey and perfectly cooked to a juicy medium-rare, but the many items pared on that plate, from greens to caramelized onions to slightly bitter rutabaga and slightly sweet parsnip and amazing thick cut bacon made this dish one of the best I've had in many recent great meals in Sarasota and NYC. The wine list is small, but very well-curated - we ordered a 2004 Rioja which at $39/bottle was an excellent value and a truly great wine. We've been to all of the upper-end restaurants in Sarasota and Longboat and really felt that Pomona hit it out of the park.
Takes Reservations : Yes Delivery : No Take-out : No Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Parking : Street Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : No Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Dressy Ambience : Intimate Noise Level : Average Good For Dancing : Yes Alcohol : Full Bar Happy Hour : Yes Smoking : No Outdoor Seating : Yes Has TV : No Waiter Service : Yes Caters : No
Mark S.
This is our go to place where the food is always excellent and we feel welcomed by Arthur the proprietor and dessert genius. Small but interesting menu that changes often based on current fresh ingredients. Went the other night and split the 4lb lobster it was possibly the best we have eve had.
(5)Jim M.
We've enjoyed both inside and patio dining at Pamona. The food is delicious, the wine and cocktail list extensive, the service exceptional, and the ambience is semi-formal but relaxed in this gem of local establishments. Recently we ordered the cheese plate, beet salad, grouper tempura small plate and the Italian Shellfish Pasta. All were flavorful. Arthur and his team are very cordial and professional. We had a show at the Asolo and were running a little behind, and they accommodated us and got us out the door on time. Our server was terrific. She was knowledgeable and right there when we needed her to be. Overall, the prices are very reasonable. If it is cool enough, the patio is a nice option. It's usually empty and is a relatively quiet place to dine or just to sit ad enjoy a cocktail.
(5)MICHELE S.
Arthur Lopes is not only the pastry chef extraordinaire/owner of Pomona Bistro, he is an artist and his two dining rooms are his canvases. Arthur warmly greets his guests at the door and places them strategically. His welcoming persona sets the tone for a delightful evening. Arthur seems to know everyone and makes all his guests feel SPECIAL and right at home. The food at Pomona is consistently DELICIOUS thanks to Executive Chef Ryan Boeve and his sous chef Isaac. Chef Ryan continues to change up and tweak this already very eclectic menu of small and large plates. Upon our most recent visit, we enjoyed the bistro and romaine salads which were both dressed perfectly and as a main course we had the venison and the "sous vide" veal tenderloin which was multi layered in taste and consistency. The veal was moist and tender topped with crispy sweetbreads all placed on a bed of creamy risotto. This dish was truly A DELIGHT to the senses. BRAVO Chef Ryan! All the wait staff, Billy at the bar, Emily, Ann, George, Marianna, and, I may well have forgotten someone, is phenomenally professional and knowledgeable, and helps make an evening at Pomona more than just a dinner. IT'S A MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE!!
(5)Alex M.
Great cocktails, great food, personal service, and the desserts are fantastic. I wouldn't recommend the 3 course prix menu unless you're not very hungry, portions are petite at best. The chocolate souffle is worth the calories (it's quite large) as is the creme brule which is maybe the best I've ever had.
(5)Matthew B.
This was our first visit to Pomona and unfortunately the experience was not really very good, nor was it good for other diners around us. Perhaps it was due to a large party in the adjoining room, but we experienced long delays for everything and the food didn't really stand out, making this experience mediocre at best. After being seated we waited approximately 10 minutes for the server (who was very nice) to come to our table to take our drink orders, simply for a couple glasses of wine. I had to ask after another 10 minutes where they were. Our table neighbors faired worse. They were seated just after us and had not been served even water for 20 minutes. They got up and left even though the manager attempted to placate them. The diners on the other side of us also complained repeatedly, asking where their food was etc. The food was ok but not outstanding. Wife had the mixed seafood with homemade pasta. The seafood was prepared correctly, but the dish lacked flavor. She also had the beet salad which was reported as being very good. I had the pan roasted chicken and it was nothing to write home about. It was done fine, but also lacked flavor. We both had to use salt, which is somewhat unusual for us. I started with the French onion soup and it was also fine but not the best I've had and was fairly meager for $10. We skipped dessert as the meal didn't really warrant it. With the items listed above and 4 quartinos of wine between us, the check was over $120. The restaurant had a nice atmosphere, and the service staff were friendly. Unfortunately the straightforward food didn't justify the price, and the slow pace likely due to attention paid to a large party made for an unpleasant experience for us and others near us. This was our first and last visit to Pomona.
(3)Nadia Z.
I was impressed with this hidden gem in Sarasota. Business dinner turned nothing but exquisite event. Perfect temperature wine was shared. Three-course pre-fix menu to satisfy all the picky eaters. Great desserts. I had beets with goat cheese for the appetiser, which was awesome - I do love beets, and those were roasted nicely. Main course, veal with crispy sweetbreads, corn, pearl onions and saffron sauce was just delicious, and veal was cooked just like it supposed to - pink and tender. Dessert, lemon tart, was noting less than amazing. Highly recommend - for special night out, event or party, this is great place!
(5)DeAnna L.
We had a nice date at the bar here. Love the food and excellent customer service. Creative menu. I will go back and try the outdoor patio. Beautiful decor and a wonderful fine dining experience. We ended up meeting the owner, he was so nice and friendly. He showed us into the back so we could see the secrete painting of Pumona- "The Goddess of Fruitful Abundance." We had a wonderful evening. Our friends told us about the place, glad they did.
(5)Sarah W.
Fantastic! My husband and I went on a Friday night and had an amazing meal with excellent service. Arthur, one of the owners, checked in on us several times throughout the meal. You can tell how proud he is of the food and he should be. We had the charcuterie plate, mussels, fries and the foie gras special. Everything was incredible. The best way to top off the meal was the Grand Marnier soufflé- it was perfect. Yes, we were definitely the youngest diners in the restaurant, but I think this place will catch on with the rest of the young people in Sarasota. We will most definitely be back.
(5)Patty M.
Lovely dining. Beautiful restaurant with great attention to detail. Billy creates specialty drinks. A wonderful assortment of the usual along with some of his own creations which are truly sensational. Might I recommend his Pear Martini? All the dishes are beautifully prepared and delicious. This evening was Feb 13, Pre Valentine's Day, with a very relaxed, sophisticated crowd. Patricia was our server. She is what makes a dining experience not only perfect but exceptional and memorable. A truly special evening. Patty Lane Miller
(5)S S.
Great meal here tonight: quail app, then snapper and halibut. (Good meat and veggie options also.) All excellent, nice wines by the glass and friendly, professional service. Beautiful dining room and nice outdoor space also if weather cooperates. Go here, you'll be glad you did.
(5)Joann D.
Wow! Culinary delight! Incredible range of flavors! The charcuterie plate was not only tasty and with a lot of variety but a lovely sight as well. We can recommend the veal, grouper and duck. And a comprehensive wine selection with pretty good pricing! Arthur's cheery personality is welcoming and shows a real commitment to his patrons. JoAnn D
(5)Amelia B.
Pamona is one of our favorite local restaurants! We have been following these two culinary geniuses around Sarasota over 10 years! Pamona has an amazing, unique menu of culinary delights. I am not a dessert lover but when I dine at Pamona I am sure try one of Chef Arthur's sweet creations! Chef Ryan never disappoints with fresh seafood and game. This small local bistro is a refreshing change from the cooperate giants found locally!
(5)sandra M.
Nice surroundings but don't expect to leave 'satisfied.' The small plate of Elk - $18.00 is truly just that - three small cuts of tender Elk on some nondescript vegetable that came out lau warm at best. The beet salad had four thin slices of beets with scattered goat cheese over very mushy lettuce and I have no idea what the dressing was. My husband was satisfied with his Flat Iron steak but there was nothing exceptional with the seasonings and the fries were cold. None of the plates came out with any kind of pleasing presentation. Our check was $100.00 and we both came home hungry. PS: They don't seem to filter the water - so be on the safe side and order bottled water.
(2)Sally B.
Just had a belated birthday dinner at Pomona. Started out with the chirzo plate and "warm" olive starters. Absolutely fabulous! Had the duck confit and sea scallops with ravoli for dinner. Service was spectacular! Love when the wait staff actually serves your wine with, not after dinner. Had the mascarpone with maple syrup, espresso and cappuccino for dessert. Best dinner ever. Will be back!
(5)Sonia S.
Excellent service. Very good food. Portions are beautifully though sometimes surprisingly small. Try the cheese plate for dessert.
(4)Dylonn C.
Best place in town. Try the duck confit as an app. It's awesome. Whatever the soufflé of the day is, get it, you won't regret it!
(5)Pamela M.
In a word.....Divine! I finally snuck in here on a weeknight with a girlfriend to have dinner. We were early and were given a table but otherwise the room was booked. This is a wonderful and intimate space with an outside patio that's perfect during a Sarasota winter. My friend and I shared the Salmon small plate for a starter. I ordered a special: Mediterranean Sea Bass stuffed with greens and grilled while my friend ordered the Scallop entree. Both were excellent following the wonderful Salmon small plate. We finished off the evening with the Grand Marnier Souffle. Everything was top notch and the menu left me looking forward to my next visit. One of the owners waited on us and it was truly a pleasure. I think he would have stayed at our table and talked about food with us all night long. Definitely an example of his pride in ownership. The sommelier was equally wonderful as was everyone else we came n contact with. Very attentive staff. A must try! Enjoy!
(5)victoria f.
I'm a foodie from New York City visiting my family for the weekend. We met another family here for dinner. I was thrilled when we were seated outside under the toasty heat lamps. The view was fantastic and I couldn't wait to see the menu. We couldn't decide on a wine so the sommelier assisted. We gave him 4 references as to our palate including the region. Long story......he couldn't figure it out. We finally gave up. The menu is not very traditional making it hard to find something that appealed to me. We were a party of 8 and 7 entrées came out. About 5 minutes later it finally arrived cold. The owner came over to explain that it was just prepared and then 3 other guests in our party revealed that theirs was cold as well but didn't want to complain. They did comp a desert but between the off beat menu, the NYC prices, poorly executed food entrées, and a sommelier that couldn't match your palate (quite suspect if you ask me) makes this a perfect destination for a romantic spot for cocktails before or after you dine somewhere else!!
(2)Dominic S.
Food was exquisite. The service absolutely perfect - there when you need it, not when you don't, water & wine glasses always full. If they have the Grand Marnier Souffle as a dessert special then it is a must, as is the regular menu item Maple Cheesecake. Cannot recommend strongly enough. My new favorite restaurant.
(5)Elena C.
I love this restaurant. It is so nice to eat at a place where the food is so good, the ambiance comfortable and the service is impeccable. The decor is understated and cozy. When I sit at the table I don't want to leave. I ordered a salad with pear and greens, it was delicious and for my entree the flatiron steak, it was delicious, perfectly prepared, exact temperature, the fries were delicious. My husband had the duck confit which was incredible and the lamb chops too. I had a taste of my friend's sweetbreads which were very well prepared. This is one of the best restaurants on the West Coast of Florida.
(5)Georgina C.
We had a wonderful dinner at Pomona tonight and will go back often. All of our meals were excellent with great ambiance and service. Definitely order the chocolate soufflé. Also, this is the perfect time of year to sit outside by the fireplace under the lights. Great Sarasota restaurant.
(4)Judy W.
Super yummy. Fresh ingredients, thoughtful menu, great service. Definitely one of the best spots in town. Love sitting outside by the fire on cool nights.
(5)Greg R.
We had dinner at Pomona on Friday night and absolutely loved it. It is a lovely space, understated, with high ceilings and plenty of room between tables. I don't know what all the talk on the sites regarding snootiness is about, but the owner, sommelier and other staff were knowledgeable, professional and passionate about the menu, including where and how various proteins on the menu were raised. The Jerusalem artichoke soup (no cream) was fantastic, really distilled the flavor of the tuber down to perfection. The best mussels we had ever tasted, including one in our party who orders them just about anytime they are available on a menu. The steak was cooked perfectly, with a buttery texture that almost didn't require and knife and fantastic "duck-fat" fries (which did not come with the dish but which the waiter was happy to substitute). The coup de grace was the antelope which itself was just fabulous and not at all gamey and perfectly cooked to a juicy medium-rare, but the many items pared on that plate, from greens to caramelized onions to slightly bitter rutabaga and slightly sweet parsnip and amazing thick cut bacon made this dish one of the best I've had in many recent great meals in Sarasota and NYC. The wine list is small, but very well-curated - we ordered a 2004 Rioja which at $39/bottle was an excellent value and a truly great wine. We've been to all of the upper-end restaurants in Sarasota and Longboat and really felt that Pomona hit it out of the park.
(5)