Est. 2001 • Gulf Gate, Sarasota
Our Story
Where It All Began
In 2001, Matt and Gretchen Jasnich saw something missing in Sarasota — a real bar. Not a restaurant pretending to be a bar. They opened Monk's on Superior Avenue in the heart of Gulf Gate, and it immediately became the neighborhood's living room. Cold beer, fresh oysters, and zero pretense.
The “Cheers” of Sarasota
With its 1980s nostalgic vibe, intimate interior, and front patio that feels like your backyard, Monk's earned its rep as the kind of place where everybody knows your name. The bar doubles as an open kitchen — every bartender shucks oysters right in front of you.
The Legend of Pineapple
No story of Monk's is complete without Keoni “Pineapple” Kauaihilo — the bartender who's been shucking oysters and pouring cold ones for over 20 years. Now a partner. Still the first person to buy you a shot.
Fresh From the Gulf
Our oysters come from the Gulf — Louisiana and Texas — delivered three times a week. We never compromise on freshness. As Sarasota Magazine put it: “Gulf Gate favorite. Nothing fancy. Cold beer and oysters. Locals love it.”
Come see what two decades of no-frills tradition tastes like.