When it comes to dining out in Sarasota, Circo stands out as one of the premier destinations for food enthusiasts seeking a blend of modern Italian cuisine and sophisticated ambiance. The Circo Sarasota menu offers a carefully curated selection of dishes that emphasize fresh, locally sourced ingredients while honoring traditional Italian flavors.
Whether you’re indulging in a casual lunch or celebrating a special occasion, Circo’s menu is designed to cater to a variety of tastes and preferences with its creative yet approachable offerings.
Every item on the Circo menu is thoughtfully prepared by expert chefs who balance innovation with authenticity. From hand-crafted pastas to wood-fired pizzas and seasonal specialties, the menu showcases a commitment to quality and culinary artistry.
Diners can expect a dynamic experience as the menu evolves with seasonal ingredients, ensuring that each visit brings something new and exciting to the table.
Circo Sarasota excels not only in its food but also in its ability to create a warm and inviting atmosphere that complements the dining experience. The menu’s diversity makes it an ideal choice for families, couples, and groups, offering everything from light appetizers to hearty entrees and delectable desserts.
Exploring the Circo Sarasota menu is an opportunity to savor the best of Italian-inspired dining in the heart of Florida’s Gulf Coast.
Appetizers and Small Plates
The appetizer section of the Circo Sarasota menu sets the tone for a memorable meal with a variety of flavorful small plates that showcase fresh ingredients and bold Italian influences. These dishes are perfect for sharing or for starting your meal with a light bite that excites the palate.
Highlights include classic options like bruschetta topped with vine-ripened tomatoes and fresh basil, as well as more inventive selections such as crispy calamari served with a zesty aioli. These starters are crafted to complement the main courses while offering their own unique taste profiles.
The menu offers a balanced mix of vegetarian and seafood appetizers, ensuring options for all dietary preferences. The use of locally sourced produce and sustainable seafood is a hallmark of Circo’s commitment to quality and responsible sourcing.
- Bruschetta al Pomodoro – Grilled bread with tomato, basil, garlic, and olive oil
- Crispy Calamari – Lightly fried, served with lemon and house aioli
- Arancini – Risotto balls stuffed with mozzarella and served with marinara sauce
- Insalata Caprese – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze
“The appetizers at Circo are a perfect blend of tradition and innovation, setting the stage for an unforgettable meal.” – Local Food Critic
Handcrafted Pastas
Circo Sarasota’s handcrafted pasta offerings are a centerpiece of the menu, celebrating the art of traditional Italian pasta making with a modern twist. Each pasta dish is made fresh daily, using durable, high-quality dough to create a variety of shapes and textures.
The pasta menu features classics like tagliatelle and pappardelle alongside unique creations such as squid ink linguine or gluten-free alternatives. The sauces range from rich and hearty ragùs to light, herb-infused olive oil blends, catering to diverse palates.
Whether you prefer meat-based dishes or vegetarian options, the pasta section is designed to satisfy. The emphasis on seasonality means the menu evolves with fresh ingredients, offering an authentic taste of Italy with every bite.
Popular Pasta Dishes
- Tagliatelle Bolognese – Slow-cooked beef and pork ragù with fresh tagliatelle
- Squid Ink Linguine – Served with sautéed shrimp and cherry tomatoes
- Wild Mushroom Pappardelle – Creamy truffle sauce with seasonal mushrooms
- Gluten-Free Penne Pomodoro – Fresh tomatoes, basil, and garlic
| Dish | Main Ingredient | Sauce | Price |
| Tagliatelle Bolognese | Beef & Pork | Meat Ragù | $22 |
| Squid Ink Linguine | Shrimp | Olive Oil & Garlic | $24 |
| Wild Mushroom Pappardelle | Mushrooms | Truffle Cream | $21 |
| Gluten-Free Penne Pomodoro | Tomatoes | Tomato Basil | $19 |
Wood-Fired Pizzas
The wood-fired pizza section of Circo Sarasota’s menu embodies the restaurant’s dedication to authentic Italian cooking techniques and high-quality ingredients. Each pizza is baked to perfection in a traditional wood-fired oven, creating a thin, crispy crust with a smoky depth of flavor.
Pizza lovers will appreciate the range of toppings, from classic Margherita to innovative combinations like fig and prosciutto or spicy sausage with roasted peppers. The dough is made fresh daily, ensuring a light yet chewy base that supports the bold flavors of the toppings.
Vegetarian and gluten-free crust options are available, emphasizing Circo’s commitment to accommodating a variety of dietary needs without compromising taste or quality.
- Margherita – Tomato, fresh mozzarella, basil, and olive oil
- Fig & Prosciutto – Fresh figs, prosciutto, goat cheese, and arugula
- Spicy Sausage – Italian sausage, roasted peppers, and mozzarella
- Vegetarian – Seasonal vegetables, tomato sauce, and fresh mozzarella
“Circo’s wood-fired pizzas bring the heart of Italy to Sarasota, offering both traditional and creative options that satisfy every craving.” – Sarasota Dining Magazine
Entrées and Main Courses
Beyond pastas and pizzas, the Circo Sarasota menu boasts a diverse selection of entrées that highlight premium proteins and thoughtfully crafted sauces. These dishes cater to diners looking for a substantial and satisfying meal with a refined Italian flair.
Options include expertly grilled meats, fresh seafood, and vegetarian-friendly plates, all prepared with an emphasis on balance and presentation. The chefs prioritize fresh, seasonal ingredients, often sourcing from local farms and fisheries to ensure optimal flavor and sustainability.
Each entrée is paired with complementary sides, such as roasted seasonal vegetables or creamy polenta, to round out the dining experience. The section is perfect for those seeking a more elevated meal that still remains approachable and true to Italian culinary traditions.
Signature Entrées
- Grilled Tuscan Chicken – Marinated in herbs, served with garlic mashed potatoes
- Seared Sea Bass – Accompanied by sautéed spinach and lemon butter sauce
- Osso Buco – Slow-braised veal shank with gremolata and risotto Milanese
- Eggplant Parmesan – Layers of baked eggplant, marinara, and mozzarella
| Entrée | Main Ingredient | Accompaniment | Price |
| Grilled Tuscan Chicken | Chicken | Garlic Mashed Potatoes | $28 |
| Seared Sea Bass | Sea Bass | Sautéed Spinach | $32 |
| Osso Buco | Veal Shank | Risotto Milanese | $34 |
| Eggplant Parmesan | Eggplant | Marinara Sauce | $24 |
Salads and Light Fare
For those seeking lighter options or a fresh complement to their meal, Circo Sarasota’s selection of salads and light fare offers vibrant, nutrient-rich dishes bursting with flavor. These items emphasize crisp, fresh vegetables, quality cheeses, and house-made dressings.
Whether you’re enjoying a standalone salad or pairing it with other menu selections, the options available are designed to satisfy without overwhelming. The balance of textures and flavors is carefully considered to create dishes that feel both wholesome and indulgent.
Many salads feature seasonal produce and can be customized to accommodate dietary restrictions, making them versatile choices for health-conscious diners.
- Arugula & Pear Salad – Arugula, sliced pears, walnuts, gorgonzola, and balsamic vinaigrette
- Classic Caesar – Romaine, parmesan, croutons, and house Caesar dressing
- Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, heirloom tomatoes, basil, and olive oil
- Mixed Greens – Seasonal greens with lemon-herb vinaigrette
“Circo’s salads are a testament to the power of fresh ingredients, offering light and delicious options that appeal to every palate.” – Health & Dining Review
Desserts and Sweet Endings
The dessert menu at Circo Sarasota is a delightful conclusion to the dining experience, featuring classic Italian sweets alongside contemporary creations. Each dessert is crafted to balance sweetness with texture, often incorporating seasonal fruits and rich, indulgent ingredients.
Favorites include traditional tiramisu, panna cotta infused with fresh berries, and decadent chocolate torte. The desserts are designed to pair beautifully with the restaurant’s carefully selected coffee and dessert wine options.
For those with a sweet tooth or simply wanting a satisfying finish, Circo’s desserts provide a memorable finale that complements the meal’s earlier courses perfectly.
- Tiramisu – Espresso-soaked ladyfingers layered with mascarpone cream
- Panna Cotta – Creamy custard topped with seasonal fruit compote
- Chocolate Torte – Rich flourless cake with a hint of espresso
- Lemon Ricotta Cake – Light and moist with a citrus glaze
| Dessert | Main Ingredients | Flavor Notes | Price |
| Tiramisu | Mascarpone, Espresso, Ladyfingers | Creamy, Coffee, Sweet | $10 |
| Panna Cotta | Cream, Gelatin, Berries | Light, Fruity, Smooth | $9 |
| Chocolate Torte | Chocolate, Eggs, Sugar | Rich, Dense, Espresso | $11 |
| Lemon Ricotta Cake | Ricotta, Lemon, Flour | Bright, Moist, Citrusy | $9 |
Wine and Beverage Selection
Circo Sarasota’s menu is complemented by an extensive wine and beverage list that enhances the overall dining experience. The selection features a curated array of Italian and international wines, carefully chosen to pair well with the diverse flavors found throughout the menu.
From bold reds like Barolo and Chianti to crisp whites such as Pinot Grigio and Vermentino, the wine list offers options for every palate and dish. The knowledgeable staff are always on hand to recommend pairings that elevate the taste of each course.
Beyond wine, Circo also provides a variety of artisanal cocktails, craft beers, and non-alcoholic beverages, ensuring that every guest finds something to suit their mood and preference.
- Red Wines: Barolo, Chianti, Montepulciano
- White Wines: Pinot Grigio, Vermentino, Soave
- Craft Cocktails: Classic Negroni, Aperol Spritz, House-made Limoncello
- Non-Alcoholic: Fresh-pressed juices, Italian sodas, Sparkling water
“The wine program at Circo is thoughtfully designed to complement the menu’s bold flavors and delicate nuances.” – Wine Enthusiast
Special Diets and Customization
Recognizing the diverse needs of diners, Circo Sarasota offers a range of options and accommodations for special diets. Whether you require gluten-free, vegetarian, or vegan dishes, the menu is flexible and inclusive, ensuring everyone can enjoy a satisfying meal.
The chefs are adept at customizing dishes without sacrificing flavor or quality. For example, gluten-free pasta and pizza crusts are available, and many vegetable-forward dishes can be adapted to be vegan-friendly by omitting certain cheeses or sauces.
Clear labeling on the menu helps guests identify suitable dishes quickly, and the staff are trained to answer questions and provide recommendations for dietary restrictions.
- Gluten-Free Pasta and Pizza Options
- Vegetarian and Vegan Entrées
- Allergen Awareness and Ingredient Transparency
- Customizable Sauces and Dressings
“Circo’s commitment to accommodating dietary restrictions without compromising taste sets a high standard for inclusive dining.” – Sarasota Food Allergy Network
Circo Sarasota’s menu is a testament to the art of Italian cuisine, blending tradition with innovation to create a truly exceptional dining experience. From the appetizer to dessert, every dish is crafted with care, emphasizing fresh, local ingredients and authentic flavors.
The diversity of offerings ensures that every guest finds something to delight their taste buds, whether seeking a light bite, a hearty entrée, or a decadent sweet treat.
The thoughtfully curated wine and beverage list further enhances the meal, providing ideal pairings that accentuate the richness and complexity of each dish. Circo’s attention to detail extends to accommodating dietary needs, ensuring an inclusive environment where everyone can enjoy the pleasures of Italian dining.
Ultimately, the Circo Sarasota menu invites diners to savor not just a meal, but a celebration of Italian culinary traditions with a contemporary flair. It’s a place where quality, passion, and creativity come together to offer an unforgettable experience in the heart of Sarasota.
