Derek Barnes: Executive Chef/Owner

Derek Barnes dreamed of and planned for the day he would serve as chef in his own restaurant long before he opened Derek's Culinary Casual in Sarasota’s upcoming Rosemary District.

After graduating with honors from The School of Culinary Arts in Denver, Derek went to New Orleans to work with Emeril Lagasse in his Emeril's restaurant. Starting there as garde manger, within a year and a half Derek had earned a sous chef position.

After four years with Emeril's, Derek explored his options up and down the east coast. After several interviews at Anna Maria Island’s award-winning Beach Bistro, Derek and his wife, Beth, decided that the Suncoast seemed like the perfect place to raise their family. Derek took a position as Chef de Cuisine at the Beach Bistro.

Since opening Derek's Culinary Casual in January 2006, Derek has been earning accolades and awards: Semifinalist for the prestigious James Beard Best Chef South award, Florida Trend's Golden Spoon award, "Most Innovative Chef" in the Best of SRQ Magazine 2009, and a place in the exclusive Zagat 2009 America's Top Restaurants list.

Derek and Beth are enjoying life in Sarasota with their son, Jack and daughter Reshma. And Derek continues to explore and expand his culinary skills as he prepares thoughtful, imaginative dishes for all who dine at Derek's Culinary Casual.

 

 

 

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Hours of Operation

Lunch 11:30 - 2:00 Tues - Fri
Dinner 5:00 - 10:00 Tues - Sat

 

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Location

Derek's Culinary Casual restaurant is located in the heart of downtown Sarasota just two blocks north of Fruitville Road on Central Avenue. We're on the east side of the street. Look for the red hanging sign! (Click Here for Google Map Directions, will open in new window)

Reservations

Reservations are not required, but are recommended. Give us a call to set you up!

941-366-6565

T-shirts

We have some gorgeous t-shirts for sale at the restaurant. Show your colors! Support Derek's!

Tidbits

"Chef Derek Barnes creates dishes that are adventurous and precise at the same time. He plays with textures and flavors, pushing the gastronomic envelope at one of the most interesting and best restaurants in town."
Brian Ries, Creative Loafing

"This is true big city, indie style dining: sharp, chef-driven cooking in a plain storefront space in a not yet gentrified neighborhood. Choose foie gras, crispy rabbit, killer soups, scallops and peas, chicken and quinoa. Every course is a robust adventure, from small plates to dessert."
Chris Sherman, St. Petersburg Times

Recognition

Derek's is very honored and proud to be recognized by the following culinary institutions:

 

Zagat:
Derek's was listed, in the prestigious ZAGAT Guide as one of "America's Best Restaurant's."

James Beard Foundation:
Chef & Owner, Derek Barnes, was a semi-finalist for the 2009 James Beard Awards, "Best Chef South." The James Beard Awards are known as the "Oscars" of the food world.

Florida Trend Magazine, Golden Spoon Awards:
Every year Florida Trend Magazine will honor Exceptional restaurants with a "Golden Spoon Award." We have received this award since 2008 and hope to be a part of this coveted award for many years to come.

 

July through September, Chef Derek Barnes of Derek's Culinary Casual has travel on his mind. He's inviting Sarasota diners to explore the country through its flavors during Derek's American Table, a 10-week celebration of regional American cuisine.

Each Thursday evening from July through September, Chef Derek will present food and wine pairings that spotlight our country's diverse and unique regional flavors. He's offering Sarasota diners the chance to explore new flavors as well as sample their favorite tastes of vacations past.

Still waiting for your new passport to arrive in the mail? While you’re on hold with the State Department, get started on a global gastronomic adventure during Derek’s World Table, a 6-week celebration of global cuisine at Derek’s Culinary Casual in downtown Sarasota.

Each Thursday evening from October through November, Chef Derek Barnes will present food and wine pairings that explore the distinctive flavors of six continents and many countries.