Things to do on and around Siesta Key
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Artists Are Born at Shattered Glass DIY Sarasota By Jane Bartnett
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Shattered Glass DIY owner Amy Vankirk with a finished glass portrait of a perky white French Bulldog. (Photo by Jane Bartnett)
ooking for a creative outlet? Shattered Glass DIY, a hands-on art studio on Stickney Point Road, offers both beginners and experienced artists the chance to craft unique pieces using glass and resin. Located next to the well-known Paisano Italian Bakery, the shop provides a welcoming space for self-expression and artistic exploration. Amy Vankirk took ownership of the boutique and classroom space in June 2024. She leads resin design workshops, while artist Katy Cristiani teaches the glass art classes. Students create either framed glass artwork using
prepared pieces of colored glass, shells, and embellishments, or resin-painted wooden boards, which can be transformed into decorative art, charcuterie boards, or serving pieces.
A Hands-On Experience
For those drawn to glass art, the process begins with pre-made stencils that serve as guides. “Waves, turtles, flamingos, palm trees, and coastal designs are very popular,” Cristiani said. “Turtles are always trending.” She also customizes stencils from customer photos. One standout creation? A French bulldog design, based on a
customer’s photograph. “I designed the stencil,” Cristiani said, “and the customer completed a one-of-a-kind piece she loves and plans to display in her home.” On a busy Saturday afternoon, the studio was buzzing with activity as students participated in both glass and resin workshops. The resin group, led by Vankirk, worked on one side of the space, while Cristiani oversaw the glass workshop. “We have every color of the rainbow,” Vankirk said, referring to both the resin paints and glass pieces. Continued on page 10V
Where’s the Beef? At Tony’s Chicago Beef Company By Ned Steele
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f you’re craving authentic Chicago-style fare, look no further than Tony’s Chicago Beef Company at 6569 Superior Ave. in Gulf Gate. Since opening two decades ago, owner Tony Fricano has made this unassuming storefront a go-to spot for mouthwatering Chicago beef sandwiches and hot dogs—along with a full dose of Windy City nostalgia. Step inside, and you’re instantly transported to Chicago. The walls are packed with memorabilia: the Cubs, the Bears, Michael Jordan, iconic signs, and famous political figures. It’s like stepping into a portal to The Loop.
But while the décor is fun to take in, the real draw is the food. For the uninitiated, a true Chicago-style beef sandwich or hot dog is more than just a meal—it’s a cultural institution. The wildly popular TV show The Bear has only amplified its status. But long before the series, Chicago’s sandwich and hot dog stands had a devoted following. Tony and his son, Giuseppe, have brought that tradition to Sarasota. The shop is split in two: the right side for dining, the left for cooking. You place your order, grab a seat, and in minutes, you’re indulging in an authentic taste of Chicago.
The Menu: Classics Done Right
The beef sandwich: Paperthin slices of slow-cooked beef, simmered in natural juices and stuffed into Italian bread. You can have it fully dipped for the ultimate juicy experience or opt for a lighter soak. Either way, it’s a filling meal. The hot dog: A Vienna allbeef dog that snaps when you bite into it, served in a classic Vienna bun and topped just as it must be: bright yellow mustard, neon green relish (flown in from Chicago), chopped onions, tomato wedges, a dill pickle Continued on page 10V
Giuseppe Fricano shows how it’s done. (Photo by Dan Bosko)
SIESTA KEY
SWIMWEAR RESORT WEAR ACCESSORIES
1960 Stickney Pt Rd 941.922.4545
DOWNTOWN
50 N Tamiami Trl 941.954.8800
LONGBOAT
3170 Gulf of Mexico Dr 941.383.2288
www.SwimCity.com