Indigenous Set to Open Sept. 7

Sarasota , known locally for his innovative preparations at Canvas Café and most recently The Bijou Café, will launch his own restaurant with dinner service starting at 5:30 p.m. on Wed., Sept. 7.

The concept for Indigenous (239 S. Links Ave. in the historic Towles Court Arts District), was inspired by Chef Phelps’ passion for food, the planet and the community, and will use impeccable technique and carefully sourced local, sustainable and seasonal ingredients to give guests a unique and conscious dining experience, a press release said.

“I can’t wait,” Phelps said. “I’ve been very patient and I’m glad the community was patient too. This is truly the beginning of something special, not only for Sarasota but for me, personally. After more than 20 years in this industry, Indigenous is the realization of my vision for a restaurant with perfected cuisine, a great wine list and incredible indoor/outdoor ambiance.”

Chef Phelps said he has carefully sourced every aspect of the restaurant from ingredients in cuisine to native plants outside. The release said he has used almost 100% Florida-based companies, taking advantage of as many local businesses as possible. The Restaurant is also recycling materials for uniforms and in much of the exterior and interior design, coordinated by "Design Star" Jason Champion.

Menu items include Chef Phelps’ braised beef short ribs, lobster succotash with local Key West Shrimp and innovative desserts. View the full menu, read the Chef’s blog and learn more about the mission at www.indigenoussarasota.com.