Garden of Joy is a small restaurant in the Historic Towles Court. It's not super easy to find the…read morefirst time, we spotted a sign (see photo) and the restaurant entrance is around back. Hidden gem takes on a new meaning when the restaurant is in fact, hidden. We received a friendly welcome when we walked in and shown to a table. I knew they offered Beef Stroganoff and did end up ordering it as my entrée, but started with their Lagman soup. Listed as a noodle soup, it was much more than that. Very flavorful red broth, with beef, veggies and of course those homemade pulled noodles. My wife and I split a bowl and both of us had plenty of soup. Next came the Beef Stroganoff, and this is where I should defer to the other reviews that speak very highly of the authenticity of the dishes at Garden of Joy. I believe everyone in the restaurant except us, staff and customers, spoke Russian, so you know this is the real deal. As for me, I admit I like my wife's stroganoff better, but I suppose my expectations were not fair and biased. We completed our meal by sharing a Napolean Cake, a layered treat that was an excellent finish. I forgot to ask if it was made in house or brought in, but either way it was I'm glad we tried it.

We stumbled upon Garden of Joy a few days ago for lunch, and honestly, what a find. From the moment…read morewe walked in, we felt transported. The atmosphere is wonderfully cozy and warm, with an authenticity that is rare to find. It genuinely felt like sitting down in someone's home in Russia or Ukraine. We ordered the Kiev Chicken and Khachapuri, and both were absolutely perfect. Not "pretty good for the area" perfect, but actually perfect. The Kharcho soup deserves its own mention: rich, deeply flavorful, and hearty in a way that feels like it was made with real care and tradition. We loved it so much that today we came back for takeout. Vareniki, Pelmeni, and Plov. Every single dish delivered. If you're craving genuine, soulful Russian and Ukrainian cuisine, Garden of Joy is the real deal. I cannot recommend it highly enough. My only regret is that we live just 2 miles away and somehow did not find this gem sooner. We are making up for lost time now.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

This is the best place in Florida. I have been in n Tea Rooms in both the states and Europe…read more The enchanting experience begins as you past through the wooden gateway into the garden. You are surrounded by beautiful flowers and plants creating a wonderful world away from the busyness of everyday life. The cottage is in the middle the secret garden. The interior creates a whimsical mood that will enchant you and take you back in time. Each course is carefully crafted to your liking and can be adapted to meet the needs of food allergies. The service is spot on and the 1:1 attention to detail will leave you wanting to return with more friends. The owner is simply enchanting and will make you feel like royalty. I certainly plan on returning for more adventures. Thank you for making my mother's birthday just perfect!

Just... wow! Bear with me through this long review, but it deserves every single praise it's given!…read more Once you step through the door of this magical hideaway, you'll find yourself transported to a realm where time slows, and every sip of tea feels like a gentle whisper from an old, beloved storybook. The moment you enter, you are embraced by a cascade of twinkling fairy lights that shimmer like stardust against a twilight sky. Fresh flowers bloom in every corner, their sweet fragrance mingling with the comforting aroma of steeping tea and freshly baked cakes. The menu is a delightful symphony of flavors, with each dish crafted as if by fairy hands. The tea sandwiches are dainty yet satisfying, their ingredients so fresh they seem to have been gathered from a mystical garden just moments before. The salads are vibrant and bursting with life, each leaf and garnish adding to the overall tapestry of flavors. And, of course, the cakes! The cakes are tiny works of art, each bite a burst of sweetness that leaves you floating on clouds of pure bliss. Even the soups, served in charming little teacups, are more than just a meal--they are comfort and warmth, a gentle embrace on a slow afternoon. Each spoonful is like a chapter in a story you never want to end. In this enchanting restaurant, you don't just dine--you dream. Every moment here feels like a stolen piece of a fairy tale, and you'll find yourself lingering, not wanting to break the spell. Whether you come alone to sip tea and read by the soft glow of the fairy lights or with friends to share laughter over a tray of delicate sandwiches, you'll leave with your heart a little lighter and your spirit a little brighter. To say that the owner of this enchanting establishment is just as magical as the place she's created would be an understatement. Kathryn is the heart and soul of this fairy-tale haven, a living embodiment of the kindness and beauty that fills every corner of her restaurant. Her presence is like a gentle breeze, warm and soothing, making everyone who walks through the door feel instantly at home. Her generosity is evident not just in the thoughtful touches that make each visit special--like the fresh flowers that greet you at every table or the extra care taken to ensure each dish is perfect--but in the way she treats each guest like an old friend. There's a sweetness in her smile that makes you feel as though you've known her for years, and a gentle warmth in her words that wraps around you like a comforting blanket. She moves with a quiet grace, always attentive, yet never intrusive. Whether she's offering a kind word, making sure your tea is just right, or sharing a delightful story, she does so with a lightness that leaves you feeling cherished and cared for. It's clear that this restaurant is more than just a business to her--it's a labor of love, a place where she pours her heart into every detail. In a world that often feels rushed and impersonal, the owner's presence is a reminder of the beauty of kindness and the power of a generous spirit. She has created not just a restaurant, but a sanctuary--a place where time slows down, and you can savor not just the food, but the warmth of human connection. To dine here is to be touched by her sweetness, and to leave with your heart a little fuller, your day a little brighter. Thank you, Kathryn, for creating such a beautiful safe haven for all who enter. As long as this establishment is standing, I will be there in attendance.

Food very tasteful flavorful. Service was excellent. I had…read morethe falafel. It came with fries and a pickle. My girlfriend had the Israeli salad. She throughly enjoyed. Very clean. Host was a delight.

Verrry underwhelmed with the food as well as the atmosphere…read moreThe server and service was good Not sure if we will give it another chance being the location is good Absolutely did not live up to the hype

Always fantastic! This tony restaurant with a happening wine bar, cool high tops and cozy dining…read moreroom has a n unusual menu filled with delicious choices. The menu changes seasonally and is focused on a Mediterranean style vibe. The wine list is deep, global, and pairs well with the cuisine. The wait staff and bartenders are amazing and will always make sure your evening is special.

Chateau 13 Restaurant and Wine Bar is located in downtown Bradenton. It is a European-inspired…read morerestaurant with local ingredients. The ambiance is cozy and elegant. There is street parking and a small private parking lot. I highly recommend reservations on the Resy app about 1-2 weeks in advance, as the restaurant is busy in winter. FOOD: You can choose between a la carte or the Prix Fixe menu. The Prix Fixe is a small-portioned three-course (bite, appetizer, and entrée) menu featuring some of our signature dishes. The Prix Fixe experience begins at $58 per person (there are additional add-ons) for dine-in only. 1. Waterzooi Soup (3/5; Red Farms chicken | caramelized leeks | carrots | local cream | focaccia toast | parsley emulsion | carrot purée): This is a Belgian soup. The serving size of the soup in the prix fixe was relatively small. The presentation was nice, and the chicken soup was a nice winter dish. The chicken broth was savory but at room temperature. 2. Autumn Salad (2/5; mixed artisanal greens | brûléed bucheron cheese | radicchio | toasted French walnuts | red grapes | fig balsamic vinaigrette): I felt like something was lacking from this seasonal autumn salad. It's OK for me, as I mostly ate the bucheron cheese with the grapes and walnuts. 3. Filet Mignon (4/5; seared | maître d'hôtel butter | red wine jus | truffle potato purée | asparagus (additions: sauce Choron, seared foie gras, Maine lobster tail, local exotic Petrichor mushrooms): It was cooked perfectly. This is a staple in the menu. I did not add any of the additionals. The service was great. Our water and drinks did not touch the bottom. The server came around often to check in and give his recommendations. If you want to do order pick up, it is available Tuesday-Saturday between 5 - 8 PM. Would I come back? Yes. I want to try other items on the menu.

June 30, 2023, Two for dinner before theater at SRT that is so close you could throw a roll to…read moreit!! The restaurant is perfectly decorated and tastefully outfitted with table settings, silverware, plates and interior décor that just 'spanks' of elegance and fine dining. Service and attention to ALL details by "Grayson" was exceptional. He is witty, enthusiastic and knew the menu and all aspects of the place!! The bus service was also military, sleuthy and efficient. We started with some very nice breads/rolls and an oil dipping sauce. First Course was the Roasted Garlic Caesar which was VERY nice with luscious greens and nice dressing. 9/10 As well I had the Kale Salad with Toasted Almonds, Dried Cranberries, Sweet Potato and (I held the Goat Cheese), this was a very nice medley of ingredients and textures. I left off the goat cheese for a nice vegan/heart friendly course. 10/10 The mains / second course were the Fresh Catch (Mahi Mahi) w/ Honey Mango Salsa, Grilled Vegetables and Sriracha-Lime Sweet Potatoes that had a very properly cooked piece of fish. the zucchini and squash vegetables were nicely cooked and the sweet potatoes were also el dente firm and very enjoyable. 9/10 I got the Vegan Medley of Roasted Beets, Baby Carrots, Onion, Sweet Potato and Broccoli w/ Balsamic Reduction. This entrée arrived nice and hot! This was a very nice offering and I was happy to see it. I thought possibly a bit over roasted as the sweet potatoes on this entre were dry and hence a little 'tough'. If you look at the picture the carrots are a bit dark and a little dry. The beets were wonderful and they were cooked perfectly. I would definitely order this again, but I might ask if they could keep the veggies more crispy and less cooked. 6/10 We got the Three Course gig as it was just a few dollars more for the dessert. and so the crème brûlée was as expected and VERY smooth and silky 10/10 The Chocolate Mousse Cake was also very nice with a smooth and silky mousse but the cake might have been a little firmer or over baked just a bit? 8/10 Finally the live music was a real treat with a "Matt" on violin playing appropriate and recognizable compositions in a nice dining/background volume. The ambiance and experience here is first rate and the food and service up to the finest levels in Sarasota. YES, we will be back!

An opportunity seized…read more I'll start with the food. I had a three course meal, starting with their Roasted Garlic Caesar Salad, followed by Pasta Carbonara with Guanciale and Pecorino Romano and Vanilla Bean Crème Brulee for dessert. The salad was fine, light and fresh with a slightly creamy dressing. A very good start. I also liked my pasta main course. The homemade pasta was a little dense, each noodle about an inch and a half long, not hollow. While I'm just more used to spaghetti or penne noodles, this was still a very good dish, quite authentic. Finishing off with something sweet, the Crème Brulee was fantastic. After the savory carbonara it was a perfect ending. We liked the restaurant, it was renovated a couple of years ago by new owners. There are a few different seating areas, a patio, outdoors, and I think a couple of rooms inside. Anyway, we sat inside in the room with the bar and enjoyed listening to a lovely singer with a guitar as well as our food. Savor Sarasota is an annual event where lots of area restaurants offer fixed price (prix fixe) dining for a couple of weeks (6/1/23-6/14/23). For this year the prices are 25 for lunch and 40 for dinner. We seized on the opportunity, or used that as a reason, to finally have dinner at Bijou. It had been too long.

Tucked away off the beaten path, sits this little charm…read more This is our go to Place for all special occasions. The food and service are nothing but top-notch. Whether you choose one of the smaller intimate rooms or the larger dining room, you can count an amazing evening.

The food and garden setting is off the charts. Perfect evening, excellent cocktails, extensive…read morewine menu. Service by Annette was stellar, she knew everything about each item on the menu and was very helpful with making decisions on what to eat and drink. We will be back for sure!

Planning a trip to Poland in the fall. Went here to learn more about the cuisine. Don't know why I…read morewaited so long. Amazing smells great you as you enter. Tried some stuffed cabbage, some crepes and a poppyseed roll. This poppyseed roll was better by far than any others. The dough is not at all dry and has a superior taste. The cabbage rolls were mild but tasty. If you want more zing you could add your own seasonings. The crepes had the perfect taste and texture. Better than those I just had in Paris. Looking forward to more visits.

Stopped in there. On April 8th 2026, got 2 links of keishka, which, when I took it home, they were…read morevery soft. I put them in the refrigerator to harden up. But they never did. It was really hard to take the casing off. I tried cooking it and it tastes bad. Very bad. I called the store up and told him what was going on. He never really understood a word. I said I asked him if they could refund my money off a debit card that was not happening. He said, come back next time with the. Receipt, like these people are gonna really remember me. This happened one time before, and I thought it was just me. But it happened again.

GREAT food and service. Have eaten there a number of times and plan on returning. The food is…read morecooked as ordered and they have a wonderful menu.

Food is consistently good. Schnitzels are freshly made. Sides are great. We like the potato…read morepancakes, green beans and spaetzel. Hidden gem is the schnitzel sandwich! The sauce is amazing, and the sandwich is very crispy and satisfying.

Fran and I had one more last horrah before it's swimsuit season, sweetie!…read more We channeled our inner Bavarian and settled down for a nice German meal We started the feast with potato pancakes, smoked salmon, dill crème, and capers - yummy!! Did I mention we're just shy of swimsuit season? We each opted for a beer stein, pilsner and amber ale.... wunderbar!! The butchers platter was scrumptious enough to make this old bag shvitz, Fran and I were both refusing to put the fork down. Schnitzel, sausage, sauerkraut, red cabbage, and braised meat with mashed tatoes... we might not make it to blue martini, pumpkin! Apple strudel to go, kept this oktoberfest going, sugar!! xoxo, Jan

Service, and portions of food were overwhelming. The Veal Schnitzel was about a 3 out of 10 way…read moreovercooked as well. Restaurant very neat & clean. Nice atmosphere. Good choice of beer very good. May give it more chance.

My father and I just tried this buffet for the first time. We were very impressed with everything…read morethat they do. From bringing out hot/cold food all the time and putting in the original serving container correctly, wiping down the food area to keep it clean. The ambiance is calming with the blue lights. The price is fair for what you get and unlimited. Seniors over 62 get their drink free, but they do have a 2 hour eating limit. Can't wait to go back again.

We have been to Buffet City two Saturdays in a row. I think that means I am a fan…read more $22.99 with all you can eat crab legs makes me happy. I also was happier bc I was able to get the crab out whole in big pieces. That's always a challenge to me. I also love the sashimi, oysters, broccoli, seaweed salad and octopus salad. I love the strawberry shortcake crunch ice cream too. I didn't love the beef from the hibachi. It was chewy. The service at our table is great. They clear our plates and get drinks for us. Everyone is nice and helpful. There's a lot of big groups here, & seniors have a good deal here for the price. Happy we found a great place we can enjoy especially with the very yummy crab legs and oysters for a great price.