Main Bar Sandwich Shop

When I’m in Sarasota, I can’t wait to get to the Main Bar for one of their Famous Italian sandwiches, outstanding. When I’m not in Sarasota, I’m fantasizing about my next one; definitely one of the highlights to every trip we take to FL!

One of my go-​to sandwich shops for years — Main St is practically a local landmark.
I’ve never had a meal — soup or sandwich — that wasn’t flavorful and satisfying. My favorites include the Aztec, the Mayan, and the Black Russian. There are several vegetarian options too, including Linse’s top choice the Veggilatta.
They normally have several vegetarian options. But recently we sat down for lunch on a rainy day perfect for a bowl of soup, which happened to be the only thing Linse wanted for her birthday lunch. Of course, none of the soups were vegetarian that day. I would think they can do better.
The service is excellent, achieved through some long term staff. Meals are typically served quickly. However, the place has a tendency to be loud — especially near the area where the dining room and bar meet. Constantly clanging dishes…
I recommend the establishment without reservation. If you’re looking for a tasty sandwich, you won’t be disappointed.

Prices are reasonable, they have a good menu selection, the staff is friendly and attentive, and the food is very good. I recommend The Mayan, which comes with this awesome jalapeño dressing. I plan on coming back!

Excellent sandwiches at a reasonable price. The Russian, which was a combo turkey and roast beef, was outstanding. I’ve had tuna there, too, and it was very good. Good service as well.

I have being eating there since I remember (over 35 years). I always have ordered the Italian sandwich. Now they deliver downtown and my office is the same. I started again ordering Italian sandwiches. I always love the consistency and favor of my sandwich. I look forward to my grandkids eating there with me.

Classic sandwiches. Split the hot corner beef and chicken salad. The Italian and onion rolls are toasted and thin with a good meat to bread ratio. Great potato salad!

This place is always slammed with customers! They are one of the oldest restaurants in Sarasota. My coworkers and I order lunch from here often. Fat pig sandwich is great!

main street has no where to park. other then that the sandwhich are inexpensive and good I’m fan tomato bisque.

Best sandwiches in town. Has the feel of a New York City diner. It’s probably one of the most unique lunch spots in Sarasota. Did I mention the sandwiches are the best in town?

One of my favorite places for lunch! As soon as I walk in the door I feel famished due to the smell of all the delicious sandwich ingredients! They always have a huge selection of delicious soups on the menu and everyone I have had has been extremely good. Every sandwich I have ever had was excellent, and they are very generous with the fillings. Staff is friendly and super efficient. This place gets packed at lunch time yet the service is still quick and spot on.

Staff was rude when I came in for a takeout order. I don’t think they said a word or looked at me once. They just pointed to the bar for me to wait. Food was nothing special.

Incredible sandwiches! I just popped in because the reviews were so glowing and ended up getting the Rueben. Yum!

By far my favorite sandwich shop! Soups are amazing and the potato salad is addicting! The girls there are so sweet and easy going!!!

Friendly staff and delectable sandwiches, I had a good time with my cousin catching up over a cold beer and well made sandwich fare. Would recommend.

My favorite sandwich shop of all time is Main Bar in Sarasota, FL. Our family has been a customer since they first opened in 1958 and will continue to be. Service is top notch and the food is OUTSTANDING! The Main Bar Special pita is my personal favorite. Give them a try, you won’t regret it!

Main Bar is the place to have lunch in Downtown Sarasota. If you haven’t, you must. Socializing, great place for a quick lunch, and business deals are negotiated.
Sandwiches are delicious and there’s a good variety. Soups are also fresh. And service is fast and always with a smile!

I went here on vacation in 2009. My favorite is the Floridian wrap with pickles and potato salad.
Overall: Good quality sandwich shop.

This place is consistently REALLY good. The sandwiches and the soups (they always offer at least 5 or 6 different freshly made soups) are outstanding. The quality of the meats, cheeses & breads is fantastic.
It’s kind of hidden (in plain sight) on Main St across from the movie theater. I come here for lunch when I find myself on this part of Main St.
I’ve never met anyone who didn’t enjoy it. It’s great AND consistent. The prices are reasonable for the quality.
The only thing I was slightly disappointed in were the salads. Not bad, but could be better.

This place has delicious sandwiches! My favs are the Reuben, Pastrami melt and Italian. They’re always busy during lunch hours, but it’s usually a quick turn around for tables. Salads are not as tasty (Greek was chunks of iceberg lettuce, a few kalamata olives, and feta with no-​flavor oil vinegar) and small. So go for a sandwich! Some sandwiches come w sides (potato salad is really good, slaw), most come w a pickle, but chips are extra. Only complaint is the plates they serve sandwiches on are a little small! Ha.

Ham Melt sandwich was delicious and a great deal. The pickle was crisp and fresh. The cole slaw was disgusting. Tasted old.
Neighbors got split pea soup and it looked delicious. This place is jammed at lunch time and it’s full of local working class with some seasonal visitors
This is a diner setup with long term staff. Busser are watching to wipe your table and turn it over before you get out the door. For a quick meal this is the sandwich spot.