Our Story
A taste of home, brought to Sarasota. This is how a search for authentic Lebanese food became the only Lebanese kitchen in the University Town Center.
A Search That Started It All
Our founder, Ibrahim, moved from Dearborn, Michigan to Sarasota in 2015, trading one of America's largest Lebanese communities for the Gulf Coast. When he arrived, one thing was missing. The authentic Lebanese food he grew up with.
Rather than go without, he decided to bring it here himself, to share a piece of his culture, his family's recipes, and the flavors of home with his new community.
More Than a Year in the Making
Opening was anything but easy. Labor shortages, supply chain challenges, and then Hurricane Ian, the Category 4 storm that swept southwest Florida, all stood between the idea and the open door.
On October 4, 2022, Al Forno finally opened its doors on the northwest corner of Sarasota's University Town Center. Today it remains Sarasota's only Lebanese restaurant, drawing guests from across the region, some driving more than an hour to get here.
I wanted to introduce something I could bring from home, and share part of the culture with people.Ibrahim · Founder
The Care Behind Every Plate
Made Fresh Daily
Nothing frozen, nothing rushed. Small batches made throughout the day so every dish tastes the way it should.
Fully Halal
Every item on our menu is halal, prepared with care and respect for how the food is sourced and made.
Authentic Recipes
Family recipes from Lebanon, made by Lebanese chefs with over two decades of experience in the kitchen.
A Family Table
Our goal is simple: to be a household name where every guest, from every walk of life, feels at home.
The Flavors of Lebanon, Right Here in Sarasota
Words can only go so far. Stop by our kitchen at University Town Center and experience the hospitality and flavors of Lebanon the way they were meant to be enjoyed.
Order NowMonday – Thursday
11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Friday – Saturday
11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Sunday
11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
83 N Cattlemen Rd,
Sarasota, Florida 34243
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