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Connors Steak & SeafoodB+Worth Trying
3501 S Tamiami Trl #1165, Sarasota, FL 34239
· Steak house, American restaurant, Seafood restaurant
· 4.7/5 Google (3893 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Reliable steaks and seafood with strong management engagement; expect good food, occasional service slowdowns, and a bustling bar-side vibe unless you request the quieter dining room.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Connors Steak & Seafood delivers solid neighborhood steakhouse performance with excellent food quality highlighted by expertly-cooked steaks, standout calamari, and praised lobster bisque. However, inconsistent execution—occasional steak doneness misses and variable pacing on busy nights—prevents the higher reliability expected of grade A establishments. Strong service attentiveness and knowledgeable staff support the grade, making it competitive with respected local favorites despite the operational inconsistencies.
Restaurant Summary
Connors sits on the South Tamiami Trail with a split personality: the bar area hums while the main dining room feels more composed. Guests describe friendly, polished service with frequent manager check-ins, though busy nights can stretch pacing. One diner summed it up: "Steaks were spot on and the shortcake sealed the night." However, there are some review authenticity concerns typical of high-volume venues using templates, though most feedback reads organic. In the kitchen, the approach leans classic steakhouse with elevated traditional comfort: ribeyes, filets, prime rib, and seafood staples supported by crowd-pleasers like lobster bisque and a crisp, praised calamari. There are light creative touches (Korean-style ribs, ahi tuna stack) but the experience is more craft than theater. Regulars return for consistent flavors and hearty portions, while occasional off nights note under or overcooked steaks and slow bar drinks. Families are well supported thanks to a robust kids menu with burgers, tenders, and pizza at wallet-friendly prices. That said, energy in the bar section can skew lively, so request the quieter dining room if you need calmer space. Portions are generous and familiar, making it easier for selective eaters to find something comfortable.
At a Glance
- Well-executed steaks, lobster bisque, and standout calamari
- Strong owner engagement with personalized follow-ups
- Solid lunch value with mid-teens to mid-twenties mains
- Variable pacing and occasional steak doneness misses on busy nights
- Seating placement and large-party logistics can frustrate
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- manager_table_check_ins
- strong_kids_menu
- popular_calamari
- dessert_signature_strawberry_shortcake
What People Love
- Emotion of a well-cooked steak and warm shortcake finish
- Attentive, personable servers who guide choices
- Booth privacy and romantic lighting
- Lunch pricing that feels fair for the quality
- Manager check-ins that show care
Points of Concern
- Pricing is genuinely expensive at dinner compared with lunch; steak misfires sting more at higher cost
- Service speed can lag on holidays and for large parties; drink delays common at the bar
- Seating in bar area is louder; request dining room if you want a quieter ambiance
- Review patterns show signs of potential manipulation (high five-star share, response templates) which may not reflect typical diner experience
- For a few diners, steak doneness consistency varies; speak up early for fixes
- Limited options for conservative palates or picky eaters
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$40-$58 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- For lighter lunch: Ahi Tuna Stack ($19) plus House Salad ($7)
- Classic combo: Lobster Crab Bisque ($7) and Lunch Sirloin ($22)
- Seafood route: Red Grouper ($26) with broccoli side
- Kids: Cheese Pizza ($7) or Tenders & Fruit ($9)
Perfect For
- Date night in the quieter dining room
- Celebration dinners with classic steakhouse hits
- Business lunches with dependable service
- Families seeking kid-friendly options
Location Insights
Area: Busy South Tamiami Trail corridor with malls and chain dining; draws shoppers, families, and date-night crowds.
Safety: Generally safe, high traffic, well-lit commercial strip typical of suburban arterials.
Nearby: Near shopping centers and parking; convenient pre- and post-shopping dining.
South SarasotaSouth Sarasota is a mixed-use area combining residential neighborhoods with commercial corridors. The dining scene here is casual to mid-range, catering to both locals and visitors with a variety of chain and independent restaurants, often located near shopping centers and major roads.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:00–22:00
Tuesday11:00–22:00
Wednesday11:00–22:00
Thursday11:00–22:00
Friday11:00–23:00
Saturday11:00–23:00
Sunday11:00–22:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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