Longtime Sarasota diner closes after 36 years, citing rising operating costs

SARASOTA, Fla. (WWSB) - A family-owned Sarasota diner that fed the Suncoast community for 36 years has served its last plate.

Tasty Home Cookin’ has permanently closed its doors. Owners cited rising operating costs as the reason for the closure.

Lindsay Gilman, daughter of the restaurant’s owners, said the impact the diner had on the community came as a surprise to the family.

“The memories that we had don’t even compare to the memories we have instilled in other families throughout the community,” Gilman said. “We had no idea what a staple we were in Sarasota and it’s because of my mom and dad.”

Sarasota resident DJ Messick said the restaurant had been part of his life since childhood.

“As long as I can remember it’s been around since I was a child,” Messick said. “My dad used to take me here in the mornings before school.”

The diner, which once sold three burgers for $1.29, is now just a memory for the family and the community it served.

Following the closure, Tasty Home Cookin’ is hosting a clearout sale July 19 and 20. The sale will offer restaurant equipment, furniture and decor, giving customers an opportunity to take home a piece of the restaurant.

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