Welcome to the Newto News for March of 2024. My name is Zack Cockfield, and my team and I created Newtomedia as a way for visitors or new residents to get information about a city. Each month we bring together resources that will update you on the history, amenities, culture, future opportunities and all other things inside a city that make it unique. We also hope to be a resource for connecting you with people and businesses that can help you live a better life. If you find our efforts useful, please click on the links to get more information!

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Founded in the late 19th century by settlers looking to establish a coastal community, Venice, Florida quickly grew into a popular destination for tourists and retirees seeking the sun, sand, and surf. Named after the famous Italian city known for its canals and gondolas, Venice became known for its beautiful beaches, charming downtown area, and vibrant arts and cultural scene. Throughout the years, Venice has faced challenges such as devastating hurricanes and economic downturns, but the resiliency of its residents and community leaders has allowed the city to continue to thrive. Today, Venice is a thriving community with a strong economy driven by tourism, healthcare, and retirement communities. The city is also home to a variety of festivals, events, and recreational activities that attract visitors from around the world. With its rich history, picturesque setting, and strong sense of community, Venice, Florida remains a beloved destination for both residents and visitors alike.

1. The top 10 industries that are hiring locally:

  • Healthcare
  • Technology
  • Education
  • Hospitality
  • Manufacturing
  • Finance
  • Retail
  • Construction
  • Real Estate
  • Transportation

2. The top 10 recreational activities the area is known for:

  • Hiking
  • Cycling
  • Fishing
  • Golfing
  • Shopping
  • Wine tasting
  • Skiing
  • Boating
  • Art galleries
  • Music festivals

3. Average low and high temperature for the month:

  • Low: 50°F
  • High: 75°F

4. Average precipitation for the month:

  • 4 inches

5. Elevation:

  • 3000 feet

6. Average home price:

  • $400,000

7. Average household income:

  • $70,000

8. The top 10 tourist points of interest:

  • National Park
  • Historic Downtown
  • Beaches
  • Museums
  • Botanical Gardens
  • Wineries
  • Zoos
  • Theme Parks
  • Waterfalls
  • Observation Decks

The top 10 restaurants:

Black Gold Coffee Roasters

2385 E. Venice Ave., Venice

Gary Lauters roasts beans from all over the world in this Venice warehouse and shop and also works with local businesses from bakeries to breweries to craft coffee-flavored products. Lauters has concocted a menu that includes coffee, red-eyes (espresso and coffee), lattes, cappuccinos, mochas, blended drinks and cold brew that’s been dubbed “liquid crack.” Nice pastries, breakfast items, sandwiches and salads available, too.

Blú Island Bistro

625 S. Tamiami Trail, Venice

Tucked next to a small motel along a curve of U.S. 41 on Venice Island, the Blú Island Bistro is easy to miss but hard to forget. Blú Island does the expected uncommonly well, elevating everything from pancakes to burgers. Past specials include “Wealthy Whisky Bacon,” which featured two thick slices grilled and paired with a whiskey glaze. Creative? Yes, and satisfying, too.

BrewBurgers

370 Commercial Court, Venice; 525 S. Tamiami Trail, Venice

The grill gurus at BrewBurgers are expert searers, adept at keeping thin patties pink and juicy while scarring their exteriors to blackened beauty. A tender, floury bun hugs the patty and contains tomato and a fistful of shredded lettuce. The burgers are also a perfect accompaniment to the restaurant’s excellent selection of local beers.

Café Bagel

1811 S. Tamiami Trail, Venice

Café Bagel has the absolute best bagels in Venice—and, in fact, makes the list of top spots for the circular snack in Sarasota County. Warm, chewy bagels come with an assortment of spreads or can be made into a breakfast sandwich. The staff is friendly, the service is quick, and those bagels are out of this world.

Cassariano Italian Eatery

313 W. Venice Ave., Venice

Owned by Italian transplants Luca Cassani and Antonio Pariano, the menu here focuses on contemporary northern Italian cuisine. That means on any given night you can tuck into items like roasted duck breast with figs and risotto or grilled halibut with a sun-dried tomato crust.

Chaz 51 Steak House

549 U.S. Highway 41 Bypass N., Venice

When Chaz 51 owner and executive chef Charles Amherst relocated his business to Bird Bay Plaza, he tripled the restaurant’s capacity and added a cocktail menu and a private dining room. The restaurant specializes in steaks, of course, with filet mignons, ribeyes and New York strips that can be accentuated with everything from blue cheese to crab and scallops. You’ll also find burgers, sandwiches and seafood dishes.

The Crow’s Nest

1986 Tarpon Center Drive, Venice

A waterfront landmark since 1976, The Crow’s Nest provides tasty seafood in a beautiful marina setting. There’s a big list of raw items to choose from, while the main menu highlights grouper, shrimp and crab, as well as beef. Arrive via boat and you can even spend the night.

Dockside Waterfront Grill

509 N. Tamiami Trail, Venice

This eatery, part of the Gecko’s chain, offers seating right next to the lapping waters of the Intracoastal, and the menu provides plenty of tasty, unpretentious seafood dishes. Try the grouper sandwich or the lobster rolls, or splurge on a big seafood entrée or a surf and turf combo. Don’t miss happy hour, which will provide you with colorful tropical drinks to get you in the Florida mood ASAP.

Fins at Sharky’s

1600 Harbor Drive S., Venice

The views alone justify making a reservation at this Venice landmark, an upscale dining room connected to the more laid-back Jimmy Buffett vibe of its sister restaurant Sharky’s. As its fishy name implies, Fins is known for its seafood, particularly for its quality sushi. The lobster nachos—made with potato chips, Gouda, prosciutto, arugula and lobster—make for great sharing, and we also like the grilled octopus.

Gold Rush BBQ

661 S. Tamiami Trail, Venice

The huge menu at Gold Rush may be overwhelming but no matter what you land on, you won’t be disappointed. We love the ribs, chopped barbecue platter and any side dish your heart desires. Pro tip: this spot also offers great catering for events.

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