Lido Pavilion Concession Stand Reopened Thursday

SARASOTA, FL — The Lido Pavilion concession stand reopened Thursday as the Lido Island Grill at 400 Ben Franklin Drive in Sarasota.

The new concession stand, which is open daily, offers a family-friendly lunch and dinner menu, according to a news release from the city of Sarasota.

The reopening highlights improvements to the Lido Pavilion by the city of Sarasota, including a new pavilion roof, new concrete patio, new shade covering, new patio furniture, new concession vent hood system, newly painted building and new landscaping, according to a news release from the city.

A full renovation of the pavilion’s public restrooms will begin this summer, according to a Facebook post by the city of Sarasota. A temporary restroom trailer will be on site while the improvements are being made.

“Reopening the renovated concession stand is a milestone with the Lido Pavilion improvement plan,” Jerry Fogle, Parks and Recreation director, said. “Residents and visitors have been anxiously awaiting the return of concessions at the beach and after much work by the City and the new concessionaire, we’re excited that day is upon us.”

In January 2020, the Sarasota City Commission awarded the Lido Beach concession service contract to local chef Laszlo Bevardi, owner of Bevardi’s Salute, a longtime restaurant in downtown Sarasota.

Bevardi renovated the kitchen, created a new concession stand name and logo, and developed an extensive menu featuring standard beach favorites, as well as lobster rolls, chilled ceviche, coconut shrimp, and much more, the city said.

Vegetarian and gluten-free options are also available. A separate walk-up window is open for alcohol service, including beer, wine, frozen drinks and limited cocktails.

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The Lido Island Grill also will be focused on eco-friendly customer service.

“My family and I love Lido Beach,” Bevardi said. “Our goal is to offer delicious food at an affordable price while dramatically decreasing plastic usage to help protect the nearby shoreline and wildlife. Plates, beverage cups and straws will be biodegradable, with straws available upon request. We look forward to welcoming the Sarasota community to the Lido Island Grill.”

The concession stand will open daily at 11 a.m., and close between 5:30 and 6 p.m., depending on beachgoer activity, the city said.