- July 9, 2026
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A deli that had two locations in Sarasota County has shuttered its downtown Sarasota spot and announced plans to open a new concept in the UTC area. The Original Wolfie's and Rascal House closed its restaurant July 3 in the Rosemary District on Boulevard of the Arts. The eatery opened in November 2023 to long lines and crowds that required the owners to close briefly to hire more staff, the Business Observer previously reported.
"There was not one specific reason for the closure of this location," Woflie's Director of Operations Jason Starkman says in a July 10 email responding to questions from the Business Observer.
The Original Wolfie’s continues to serve patrons in Lakewood Ranch from its bakery and takeaway location at 5318 Paylor Lane. It has been offering takeout, delivery and catering services there since 2024.
“We make everything in-house from our salads and soups to our dessert and fresh-baked breads,” Starkman says.
Next, the company is planning to open a new concept in the UTC area called Wolfie’s Hand Cut.
"This is more than a new restaurant — it's the next evolution of the Wolfie's brand," Starkman says in a statement. "We've been working behind the scenes to create something special, and we're excited to share it with our loyal guests and a new generation of customers."
Wolfie's Hand Cut will serve up classic menu items alongside some new offerings, according to Starkman. Among the staples will be the specialty meats and desserts. Brand-new items will be new “breads, sauces, savory and tasty sides and some new and exciting sweet treats, all made at our bakery/commissary in Lakewood Ranch,” Starkman says.
Wolfie’s has already signed the lease at UTC in the shopping center near Total Wine, according to Starkman. The brand is planning a fast-casual restaurant there with indoor and outdoor seating where patrons can also order takeout and delivery. It plans to open before the end of 2026.
