St. Armand's Oyster Bar, Twin Peaks, Peculiar Pub: Restaurant News

SARASOTA-BRADENTON, FL — Here's the latest restaurant and bar news in the Sarasota and Bradenton areas:

St. Armand's Oyster Bar Closes

After about a year in business, St. Armand's Oyster Barhas permanently closed its doors at 15 South Blvd. of the Presidents, the Sarasota Herald-Tribune reported.

The New Orleans-inspired eatery specialized in Cajun and Creole dishes, including jambalaya, crawfish etouffee, and red beans and rice.

Italian Market Opening in Lakewood Ranch

A new Italian market, Eatalia, is opening in Lakewood Ranch’s Waterside Place next year.

The market will feature build-your-own charcuterie boards, fresh pasta and grocery items, and a cold bar with salad fixings, the Bradenton Herald reported.

Eatalia also plans to offer build-your-own charcuterie boards, fresh pasta and other grocery items, as well as a cold bar with various salad items.

Truman’s Tap & Grill Closing in Lakewood Ranch

Truman’s Tap & Grill in Lakewood Ranch closed at the end of last month.

“I am an eight-year cancer survivor, so I’m selling because it’s what’s best for my health,” Carrie Leitzman, who bought the restaurant with her husband in 2012, told the Observer. “I want to be able to spend time with my 16-year-old, and I want more quality family time.”

She also operated a charity fund that donated to various causes in the community.

Twin Peaks Hiring in Sarasota

Restaurant chain Twin Peaks is hiring about 200 employees ahead of its Oct. 9 grand opening in Sarasota, including Twin Peaks Girls, bartenders, managers and heart-of-house, according to a news release from the company.

Opening at 3060 Fruitville Commons Blvd., it will be the brand’s 12th location in Florida, a news release from the company said.

“It’s almost impossible to improve the view in Florida, but we’re about to do it again with our newest location,” Twin Peaks CEO Joe Hummel said. “We can’t wait to provide the Sarasota community with a place where they can grab a cold, 29-degree beer after playing 18 holes in the warm sun or enjoying a day at the beach.”

To apply, text “WORK4TP” to 8500 or stop by the restaurant Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., to apply in person.

The Sarasota restaurant will feature more than 65 TVs, 32 draft beers, and an all-season outdoor dining area with a bar, patio, and firepit.

Peculiar Pub Opening in Lakewood Ranch

A restaurateur who previously owned Wolves Head Pizza and Wings is opening a new concept in Lakewood Ranch, according to the Observer.

John Breiner sold Wolves Head and planned to retire, but realized he missed working and wanted to keep busy.

"That second week, reality sunk in," he said. "What am I going to do with myself for the next 20 years?"

Thinking he might work as a handyman, he switched gears when he saw Craft Growlers to Go and Tasting Room at 8141 Lakewood Main Street was for sale and decided to open The Peculiar Pub in that space.

Breiner is currently hiring cooks, dishwashers, bartenders and servers, according to the pub’s website.