Sarasota is a hot spot for spring break tourism. As a local, I explored many cafés, all of which have different atmospheres, giving off a different aroma of flavor and energy. Here is a list of my favorite cafés:

• Ephesus Mediterranean Café: If you’ve ever tried Turkish coffee, you know it is very strong. Open 10 a.m.–10 p.m. and located in St. Armands Circle, this café is where I come to wake up and sip on a small Ottoman coffee handmade by some of the nicest baristas in town. Offering Turkish delights straight from Turkey and a wide variety of baklava, satisfy your sweet tooth as you sit and sip. Take it to go and enjoy dining and shopping in the local area.
• O & A: Located off Main Street, this is a convenient grab-and-go destination with high-quality, ethically sourced coffee. It also seems to be the coffee shop with the best hours, as many shops tend to open late and close early.
• The Overton: This indoor-outdoor café is hip and unique with an eco-friendly approach and an open-air environment. To complement the coffee, they have a full menu for brunch, such as avocado toast, pastries and burgers, and a specialty cereal-infused latte.
• Clever Cup: The Clever Cup is one of the few work-friendly cafés where you can do homework or business work. The café is equipped with several tables and offers free WiFi. It makes it convenient to change up your working environment or get caught up on a weekend morning.
• 
• 
• Buddy Brew: This hidden coffee shop is located under the parking garage next to Art Ovation Hotel and is home to the best iced lavender latte I have ever sipped, made from homemade lavender-infused syrups. Be sure to check out the hours, as they are limited.
• Project Coffee: Located in Old Town Sarasota, this trendy futuristic shop stays in the groove with its design and choice in music. Neighboring several shops and yoga studios, this is a great spot to stop in with friends to socialize and mingle, or order online and pick up on your way in and out of town.
• 
• 
• Perq Coffee Bar: This is a hidden gem of Sarasota that gives off a retro feeling with its décor. This small shop is hard to find empty, as it is home to the finest specialty coffees, teas, espressos and light bites. If you choose to stop in, be sure to try the Gibraltar.

— Christyn Pek, business development executive