FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 2026

Sarasota’s Premier Italian Fine Dining Destination Recognized for Excellence in Wine for 2024, 2025, and 2026

SARASOTA, FL — Osteria 500, Sarasota’s acclaimed upscale Italian fine dining restaurant, has once again been honored with the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence for 2026 — every year since the restaurant first opened its doors. The Award of Excellence is presented annually by Wine Spectator, the world’s leading authority on wine, to restaurants that offer well-chosen selections of quality producers along with a thematic focus and appeal.

Osteria 500, located at 1580 Lakefront Drive in Sarasota, has built a wine program with exceptional depth in Southern Italian appellations, showcasing the full breadth of Italy’s diverse wine-producing regions. The restaurant’s list reflects the passion and expertise of owner and wine director Carmine, whose commitment to authentic Italian hospitality is evident in every bottle selected for the program.

“Receiving the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence every single year since we opened is a tremendous honor and a reflection of our entire team’s dedication to the craft. Our wine program is built around the soul of Italy — from the volcanic slopes of Campania to the sun-drenched vineyards of Sicily — and we are proud to share that passion with every guest who joins us at Osteria 500.”

— Carmine, Owner & Wine Director, Osteria 500

The recognition places Osteria 500 among an elite group of restaurants nationwide acknowledged for their commitment to wine excellence. Having earned the award every year since opening — in 2024, 2025, and now 2026 — Osteria 500 has firmly established itself as one of Florida’s premier destinations for Italian wine and cuisine.

Osteria 500 is open for dinner seven days a week and offers an intimate private dining experience for special events and corporate gatherings. Reservations are recommended and can be made by contacting the restaurant directly.

About Osteria 500

Osteria 500 is an upscale Italian fine dining restaurant located at 1580 Lakefront Drive, Sarasota, FL 34240. The restaurant is celebrated for its authentic regional Italian cuisine, exceptional hospitality, and an award-winning wine program with particular strength in Southern Italian appellations. Osteria 500 has earned the Gambero Rosso 2 Spicchi recognition and the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence in 2024, 2025, and 2026.

Media Contact

Osteria 500

1580 Lakefront Drive, Sarasota, FL 34240

www.osteria500.com