Darwin's named a top 18 brew pub in USA Today

Chef Darwin Santa Maria (Courtesy Photo)

Darwin's on 4th in Sarasota is getting some national love for its brew pub, offering Bradentonians a bit of a tease of what will soon be here.

The Peruvian restaurant and microbrewery, 1525 Fourth St., Sarasota, made a top 18 list of the "best brew pubs/taprooms for food quality" nationwide. BeerRate.com's Joe Tucker ranked the best for USA Today's Travel section this week, and only included breweries that served food.

"Unlike traditional restaurants, these are social establishments that are places to relax, sample the local flavors and enjoy some conversation," Tucker told USA Today.

Chef and owner Darwin Santa Maria was honored for the recognition of his Andes-influenced beer and dishes.


"I am extremely happy and so proud of the entire Darwin's team for this accomplishment," Santa Maria said. "I also want to offer my congratulations to Cigar City in Tampa and Funky Buddha in Oakland Park for making the list for their beer quality. Please support your local Florida breweries!"

Darwin's is bringing a brewery and lounge to 803 17th Ave. W, across from McKechnie Field this spring. The 6,000-square-foot building is a 15-barrel brewery that includes a tasting room, beer garden, and performance area for local bands. The brewery will offer canning, kegging and growlers of its beers. While the Bradenton location won't feature the food menu from Darwin's in Sarasota, it does plan to hold food truck rallies there.

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