Restaurant embraces new options to meet market demand

In normal times, if there was a luncheon in Sarasota on your calendar, chances are it was at Michael’s On East.

Large events, from luncheons to nighttime fundraisers to weddings, are a big part of business for Sarasota-based Michael’s. The pandemic has put a dent in that, with events being cancelled one after the other. While those cancellations have certainly impacted the company, Michael’s, a longtime community favorite for events and restaurant dining, has risen to the challenge by introducing some new options for customers. It's an effort multiple peers in hospitality in the region are likewise being forced to do quickly, to adapt to new circumstances.