Scallops, Duck, Crab Cakes- It Has to Be Clayton’s

October 22, 2013 | Sande Caplin | Dining

One of my tedious jobs every week is having a website organizational meeting with Michael “The Professor” Hensley and Lauren Mitchell of the Lauren Mitchell Band. We always meet at a “locally owned” restaurant, do some business and then have a nice dinner. It’s a tough job, but someone has to do it and I am glad that it is me.

A couple of nights ago we dined at what I feel is one of the best restaurants in Sarasota, Clayton’s Siesta Grille. I first went to Clayton’s the month he opened, years ago. Clayton, and the real “boss” of the restaurant his wife, Diane are the nicest, warmest folks that you ever want to meet.

We did a little smorgasbord the other night. Now, let me say that Lauren can be a little choosey and even picky regarding her food selections. We all shared Crab Cakes and Blue Cheese, Arugula & Pear Salad for appetizers…. they were superb. We again shared our dinners- Roast Duck, Seared Diver Scallops and a Greek Salad. Everything was, absolutely delicious. If you know Mike, he is a rather low key guy. I watched him slowly and deliberately taste everything on the table and then go back for more. Lauren and I were another story at dinner. As usual we dominated the conversation while the Professor took it all in! When I asked Lauren what she thought about dinner her reply was “fantastic.” That about says it all.