Gecko's owners buy Longboat landmark

Gecko's Hospitality Group, one of the largest independently owned restaurant companies in the Sarasota-Bradenton market, has added another location to its portfolio: the Dry Dock Waterfront Grill on Longboat Key.

The Dry Dock, on Gulf of Mexico Drive, facing Sarasota Bay, has been a Longboat mainstay since 1989, when owners Cindy and Eric Hammersand opened it. The restaurant is known for fresh seafood, its extensive drink menu and expansive views.

Mike Quillen, co-owner of Gecko's, says he and his partners have been in discussions with the Hammersands for several months about an acquisition. “We are really excited to add it to our portfolio,” Quillen tells the Business Observer. “It's casual, but a little upscale.”