74 | GRAVITAS MAGAZINE
FOOD
SOCIAL
Downtown Sarasota
1219 1st Street
socialonfirst.com
n Sarasota, business owners are visionaries, creating boutique establishments
that continue to distinguish the city as Southwest Florida's most sophisticated
and affluent beachside town. A modern renaissance is emerging through real
estate, retail and artistic eateries. Social on First, a chic Italian restaurant in
the heart of downtown is a collection of ideas by its refined proprietors. Former
night club owners John Tassotti and Jason Lefrock have combined efforts
with attorney David Goldman to form an establishment that blends a flawless
modern interior (fashioned by renowned interior designer Shawn Dehart) with
first-rate Italian fare. Bologna, Italy reared chef Sam Hatfield offers edible art
and passion with dishes such as Black Ink Spaghetti and Wheat Pumpkin
Ravioli, an original recipe shared with Hatfield by his grandmother. Adding
to the appeal of Social is a commitment to using local ingredients (when
possible), hormone-free meats and free-range chickens. Setting the standard for
culinary and architectural excellence, Social on First is thriving.
I
By Linda Day
