Apollonia Grill in Sarasota is a culinary gem that has captivated locals and visitors alike with its vibrant menu and inviting ambiance. Known for its dedication to fresh, high-quality ingredients and innovative flavor combinations, Apollonia Grill offers a dining experience that perfectly balances traditional favorites with contemporary twists.
Whether you’re craving savory Mediterranean delights or fresh seafood, the menu at Apollonia Grill promises to satisfy a range of palates with dishes crafted to celebrate both taste and presentation.
The restaurant’s focus on seasonal produce and sustainable sourcing is evident in every bite. The chefs curate their offerings to highlight the best ingredients available, ensuring that each dish bursts with authentic flavors.
This commitment to quality, combined with a warm, welcoming atmosphere, makes Apollonia Grill a standout in Sarasota’s competitive dining scene.
From starters to desserts, the menu is thoughtfully designed to cater to diverse preferences, including vegetarian and gluten-free options. Diners can expect a seamless blend of classic Mediterranean staples and inspired modern dishes, all served with impeccable attention to detail.
It’s no wonder that Apollonia Grill has become a beloved destination for those seeking both comfort and culinary adventure.
Appetizers and Starters
The appetizer section of Apollonia Grill’s menu offers a delightful introduction to the meal with a variety of flavorful and artfully prepared small plates. Perfect for sharing or enjoying solo, these starters emphasize fresh ingredients and bold Mediterranean spices.
Whether you prefer light bites or hearty nibbles, the selection provides something enticing for every diner.
The menu features traditional favorites such as hummus and baba ganoush, which are made in-house daily to ensure freshness. These dips are complemented by warm pita bread, lightly toasted and perfect for scooping.
Additionally, the grilled octopus appetizer stands out as a signature dish, combining tender seafood with smoky charred flavors and a touch of citrus zest.
Vegetarian options are plentiful and thoughtfully crafted. For example, the stuffed grape leaves are filled with a fragrant blend of rice, herbs, and pine nuts, delivering an authentic taste of the Mediterranean.
The inclusion of seasonal vegetables in various appetizers highlights the restaurant’s commitment to freshness and quality.
Popular Starters
- Hummus Trio: Classic, roasted red pepper, and avocado hummus served with pita chips
- Grilled Octopus: Charred and tender, served with lemon and olive oil dressing
- Stuffed Grape Leaves: Rice, herbs, and pine nuts wrapped in tender leaves
- Baba Ganoush: Smoky eggplant dip with a hint of garlic and tahini
“The appetizers set the tone for the entire meal, showcasing Apollonia Grill’s dedication to bold flavors and fresh ingredients right from the first bite.”
Salads and Soups
Apollonia Grill’s salads and soups bring a refreshing balance to the menu, offering light yet satisfying options that highlight seasonal produce and classic Mediterranean flavors. These dishes are perfect for those looking to explore healthy, vibrant combinations without sacrificing taste.
The salads feature crisp greens, fresh herbs, and house-made dressings that range from tangy lemon vinaigrettes to creamy tahini blends. Popular choices include the Greek salad, which comes loaded with ripe tomatoes, cucumbers, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese, and the beet and arugula salad, which is tossed with walnuts and a balsamic reduction.
Soups at Apollonia Grill change seasonally, always emphasizing fresh, local ingredients. The lentil soup is a perennial favorite, warmly spiced with cumin and garlic, offering comforting depth.
Another seasonal option is the tomato and roasted red pepper soup, which delivers a smooth texture and vibrant color.
Highlighted Soups and Salads
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Dietary Notes |
| Greek Salad | Tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, feta, red onion | Vegetarian, Gluten-Free |
| Lentil Soup | Red lentils, cumin, garlic, carrots, onions | Vegan, Gluten-Free |
| Beet & Arugula Salad | Roasted beets, arugula, walnuts, balsamic reduction | Vegetarian, Gluten-Free |
| Tomato & Roasted Red Pepper Soup | Tomatoes, red peppers, garlic, herbs | Vegan, Gluten-Free |
“The soups and salads not only complement the main courses but also stand strong as nourishing options for a light yet flavorful meal.”
Main Courses
The main courses at Apollonia Grill showcase the heart of Mediterranean cuisine with a focus on fresh seafood, grilled meats, and vegetarian specialties. Each dish is crafted to highlight the natural flavors of the ingredients while incorporating traditional herbs and spices that evoke the region’s culinary heritage.
Seafood lovers will appreciate dishes like grilled branzino, served whole with lemon and capers, or the seafood pasta, featuring shrimp, scallops, and calamari tossed in a light tomato sauce. Meat options include slow-roasted lamb shank, marinated with herbs and served with a rich reduction, and chicken souvlaki grilled to perfection and accompanied by tzatziki sauce.
Vegetarian main courses are equally enticing. The roasted vegetable moussaka layers eggplant, zucchini, and potatoes with a creamy béchamel sauce, while the stuffed peppers are filled with a savory mix of quinoa, vegetables, and herbs.
Signature Main Dishes
- Grilled Branzino: Whole fish with lemon, capers, and herbs
- Lamb Shank: Slow-roasted with rosemary and garlic
- Chicken Souvlaki: Marinated skewers served with tzatziki and pita
- Vegetable Moussaka: Layered roasted vegetables with béchamel sauce
“Every main course is a journey to the Mediterranean, crafted with care and respect for tradition.”
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Apollonia Grill takes pride in its diverse vegetarian and vegan offerings, ensuring that plant-based diners are equally delighted. The menu balances creativity with authenticity, using fresh vegetables, legumes, and grains to craft dishes that are both nourishing and flavorful.
Popular vegan dishes include the falafel platter, served with tahini sauce and fresh salad, and the roasted cauliflower steak, seasoned with smoked paprika and served with a side of herbed quinoa. The restaurant also offers vegan versions of traditional dishes, such as vegan moussaka and lentil patties with a tangy tomato sauce.
Salads and sides are also thoughtfully prepared to accommodate vegan diets, with many dishes naturally free from animal products. This inclusivity is part of Apollonia Grill’s commitment to welcoming all guests with options that satisfy nutritional needs and taste preferences.
Plant-Based Menu Highlights
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Notes |
| Falafel Platter | Chickpeas, herbs, tahini, salad | Vegan, Gluten-Free Option Available |
| Roasted Cauliflower Steak | Cauliflower, smoked paprika, quinoa | Vegan, Gluten-Free |
| Vegan Moussaka | Eggplant, potatoes, lentils, béchamel alternative | Vegan |
| Lentil Patties | Lentils, herbs, tomato sauce | Vegan |
“A plant-based diet is celebrated here without compromise, proving that vegan cuisine can be both hearty and exciting.”
Seafood Specialties
Sarasota’s coastal location makes seafood a natural highlight of Apollonia Grill’s menu. The restaurant sources sustainable, fresh catches that are prepared with Mediterranean flair, emphasizing simplicity and respect for the natural flavors of the sea.
Popular seafood dishes include grilled shrimp skewers marinated in garlic and lemon, and the seafood risotto, which blends locally sourced shellfish with creamy arborio rice and fresh herbs. The grilled calamari appetizer also enjoys high praise, with tender rings served alongside a zesty dipping sauce.
The emphasis on freshness means that the seafood offerings frequently change to reflect seasonal availability. This approach guarantees that each dish is as vibrant and flavorful as possible, providing a true taste of the ocean.
Seafood Favorites
- Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Marinated in garlic, lemon, and herbs
- Seafood Risotto: Arborio rice with shrimp, scallops, and mussels
- Grilled Calamari: Tender and smoky, served with lemon aioli
- Seared Scallops: Pan-seared with a light herb butter sauce
“The seafood dishes at Apollonia Grill offer a perfect harmony of freshness, simplicity, and Mediterranean tradition.”
Desserts and Beverages
To conclude the dining experience, Apollonia Grill presents a dessert menu that delights with classic Mediterranean sweets and innovative creations. From rich and creamy to light and refreshing, the desserts complement the meal beautifully.
The baklava is a standout, featuring layers of flaky pastry, honey, and nuts. Another favorite is the Greek yogurt panna cotta, garnished with fresh berries and a drizzle of local honey.
For those seeking something lighter, the lemon sorbet offers a palate-cleansing finish that is both tart and sweet.
Beverage options include a curated selection of Mediterranean wines, craft beers, and specialty cocktails. The wine list highlights local Florida vineyards alongside renowned European producers, providing perfect pairings for every dish.
Sweet Endings and Drinks
| Dessert | Main Ingredients | Flavor Profile |
| Baklava | Phyllo dough, nuts, honey | Sweet, nutty, flaky |
| Greek Yogurt Panna Cotta | Greek yogurt, cream, honey, berries | Creamy, tart, sweet |
| Lemon Sorbet | Lemon juice, sugar, water | Refreshing, tart, light |
“Desserts and drinks at Apollonia Grill offer a perfect balance, rounding out the meal with thoughtful flavors and impeccable pairings.”
Gluten-Free and Dietary Accommodations
Apollonia Grill is highly attentive to guests with dietary restrictions, offering a variety of gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options clearly marked on the menu. The kitchen staff is trained to accommodate special requests and ensure safe preparation to prevent cross-contamination.
Gluten-free diners will find multiple choices across appetizers, mains, and desserts, such as the grilled branzino, lentil soup, and the beet and arugula salad. Vegetarian and vegan guests benefit from an extensive selection of plant-based dishes crafted with care and creativity.
The restaurant also provides detailed ingredient lists and is happy to customize dishes to meet individual needs. This dedication to inclusivity enhances the dining experience and reinforces Apollonia Grill’s reputation as a welcoming destination for all food lovers.
Dietary Highlights
- Gluten-Free Options: Many salads, soups, grilled seafood, and select desserts
- Vegetarian Choices: Stuffed grape leaves, vegetable moussaka, falafel
- Vegan Friendly: Roasted cauliflower steak, lentil patties, vegan moussaka
- Customization: Kitchen accommodates allergies and special diets
“A commitment to dietary inclusivity ensures that everyone can enjoy the vibrant flavors of Mediterranean cuisine without compromise.”
Conclusion
Apollonia Grill in Sarasota stands as a beacon of exceptional Mediterranean dining, with a menu that marries authenticity and innovation. Each dish reflects a deep respect for fresh, high-quality ingredients and a passion for culinary excellence.
From the enticing appetizers to the satisfying main courses and decadent desserts, every element is thoughtfully crafted to offer a memorable and satisfying experience.
The restaurant’s diverse offerings cater to a wide range of dietary preferences without sacrificing flavor or creativity. Whether you are a seafood enthusiast, a devoted vegetarian, or someone seeking gluten-free options, Apollonia Grill presents an array of choices designed to delight the palate.
The welcoming atmosphere, attentive service, and carefully curated wine and beverage selection further elevate the dining experience.
For those in Sarasota looking to indulge in Mediterranean cuisine that balances tradition with contemporary flair, Apollonia Grill’s menu is a compelling invitation. It promises not just a meal but a journey through vibrant flavors and heartfelt hospitality, ensuring every visit is a celebration of food, culture, and community.
