The New York Times
“Selva serves possibly the best food in town.”
“Ceviche that tastes like the first day of summer.”
“Friendly patrons who wave to each other as they come and go.”
OPEN TABLE
“Diner’s Choice Winner: 4.4 stars out of 5”
“Fit for Foodies”
“Best Food Hot Spot”
"The food at this upscale Peruvian restaurant was not only good, it was actually exciting. It has been a while since I have had that reaction to a restaurant.
We usually find a good wine, but we were intrigued by the cocktail menu. It turned out the Mojitos were the best I have ever had, so we ended up with two each and no wine. The ceviche we had as a first course was refreshing and tangy. The fried whole red snapper was fabulous. My wife enjoyed the special shell steak in a rich sauce. I'm sure the desserts were also excellent, but neither of us had enough appetite left to try them."
"Love the ceviche, the chopped salad, the faux osso bucco, the tapas, the pisco smash. Selva's menu is fresh, original, delectable and beautifully presented. The atmosphere is warm and hip -- great bar and patio. Our favorite spot downtown."
"Excellent service, beautiful surroundings, delicious food. What more could you want? The answer is, it's perfect! my husband and I always look forward to this lovely restaurant when we visit Sarasota. We started out with the oyster shooters. Three cups each with two oysters nestled in a wonderful lime, cilantro, red onion marinade. perfect. Next, I had Selva's version of their Spanish Caesar salad. Soooo goood. It came chopped with all "the good thing in it" plus some crispy plantains, which gave it a slight crunch. The entrees were veal chop on top of eggplant, mushroom risotto, a whole fried red snapper with a wonderful lime dripping sauce. Dessert, the Selva Sundae. If you don't get anything else, get this—coconut gelato, guava sorbet and roasted pineapple."
"Absolutely delicious! Creative and innovative dining ... the Parmesan truffle fries are to die for!!"
If this restaurant was in Manhattan, it would be one of the best there!!! They do a wonderful job with everything they make!
—Richard R., Lakewood Ranch, FL
One of those rare moments when all "comes together" for a memorable experience! Our waitress was knowledgeable and enthusiastic in recommending some items. A stack of watermelon and tuna ceviche was outstanding with its Latin marinade. Entree presentation artfully done and food expertly prepared. Romantic table for two in a sophisticated, lively ambience!
—Rooney K., Vero Beach, FL
Best overall dining experience in Sarasota because of its innovative menu choices
—Peter P., Venice FL
Amazing! Selva has been my favorite restaraunt in Sarasota for years. I've yet to have something I didn't like, but must say the strip w/ fois gras butter and truffled papas fritas is out of this world! Each dish is bursting with flavor! We have always had excellent service.
—Jennifer V., Sarasota
This place is outstanding. Unique cuisine with a Spanish flair. Service was good.. Worth coming to Sarasota just for this spot.
—Daniel W., Lindhurst OH
Really inovative and interesting food. The ceviche is superb as was the special snapper and the duck/risotto. Fast service which will get you out on time for an evening engagement.
—James L., Chestnut Hill, MA
This food is a piece of art. I am a fan of ceviche, and Selva Grill takes ceviche to a new level. Their Octopus ceviche deserves an award if it doesn't have one yet. This is the best restaurant I've been in a long time, it's a must go.
—Carles D., Lakewood Ranch FL