ENTERTAINMENT | DINING GUIDE
By Jules Lewis Gibson
JACK DUSTY
Coastal Cuisine & Crafted Cocktails
The Ritz-Carlton Sarasota
S
ailors, tin cups, modern design and casual ambiance are not exactly
words that spring to mind when you think of The Ritz-Carlton. And
yet, the talented, devoted team at The Ritz-Carlton Sarasota have
enthusiastically and flawlessly combined these most unexpected concepts to
create a decidedly unique dining experience in their new restaurant named,
Jack Dusty - Coastal Cuisine & Crafted Cocktails. The rather unusual name, Jack
Dusty, is an 18th century short-hand term for the naval store clerk whose responsibilities
included doling out the daily lot of rum to sailors, and maintaining the ship's inventory of
food supplies. The creative Ladies and Gentleman of the Ritz Carlton have woven a rich story
and experience around the name.
The journey to create Jack Dusty began 18 months ago, when the new general manager,
Brad Jencks, recognized the changing habits and desires of today's travelers. The fine dining
traditions synonymous with The Ritz-Carlton worldwide, appeared starkly out of place in
a city known for its casual coastal elegance. After a winning day on the golf course, or an
afternoon on the beach, few men were interested in donning a coat and tie. "Jack Dusty
reflects how dining has changed. People are still culinary inquisitive and want refined food,
but are looking for a more approachable dining experience that isn't stuffy or pretentious.
Our customers will get 5-star fare in a fun, relaxed setting," says Patrick Bucko, Jack Dusty's
General Manager.
Recognizing the need for change, The Ritz-Carlton Sarasota hotel management began their
formidable quest to create a unique dining experience for their guests, as well as their
local patrons. It was a bold and costly venture, totalling over $3.5 million. Replacing the
28 | FLORIDA HOMES MAGAZINE
