Gecko's Grill and Pub in Sarasota, Florida: Fun for the Whole Family

When you're looking for great casual dining, there's no better place to look than Gecko's Grill and Pub in The Landings at 4870 South Tamiami Trail. I have never received anything less than outstanding service at Gecko's. The wait staff is always smiling, friendly and helpful.

The Landings location has plenty of parking and can't be missed with its colorful Gecko-bedecked sign. Inside, the bar is always lively with customers.

Gecko's Grill and Pub has an extensive menu that holds something for everyone. If you're daring, you can start off with a drink from their mixed drink menu. The selection ranges from tame to exotic. Among your choices are the Gecko's blaster (Jaegermeister and Red Bull), the Crocodile Cooler (Citrus Vodka, Triple Sec, Melon, Sour & 7-Up), the Gecko's Cosmopolitan (Absolut Citron Vodka, Cointreau and a splash of cranberry juice garnished with lemon twist) and the Soco Energy Punch (Southern Comfort, Hunch Punch Energy Drink, Garnished with an Orange Wheel). Then for appetizers, try the red curried hummus, sesame seared tuna, or Gecko's own homemade potato chips, complete with ranch dressing.

I personally love Gecko's for their sandwiches and burgers. Their huge BLT is the best I've had in the area. They cut it into triangle-shaped quarters that are double stacked and fun to eat. Pair it with their home-made potato chips, and you've got a hearty meal that tastes great.

For entrees, Gecko's offers smokehouse ribs, their famous buffalo wings, New Orleans pasta, and various other culinary delights. They are served up in large, attractive proportions, ready to be devoured. With a fun kids menu that includes macaroni & cheese and junior wings & fries, everyone in the family can find something they love.

For sports fans, Gecko's has loads of televisions so you can watch your favorite sporting event. On Tuesdays and Saturdays, head to Gecko's for Team Trivia night. Bring your friends and form a team to compete for Gecko's gift certificates by answering questions on a variety of different topics. They play great tunes between questions, and the competition is usually pretty stiff. Gecko's also offers various other fun interactions throughout the year such as karaoke, Texas Hole 'Em, Halloween pumpkin carving contests, and parties to celebrate their ongoing anniversaries of being in business.

If you don't live near The Landings, you can still find a Gecko's Grill and Pub near you. Gecko's has restaurants on Clark Road, Highway 64 in Bradenton and Highway 70 in Bradenton. Check out their website for more details.