Politics
Here are the top 10 political stories from Southwest Florida in 2025
Local voters weighed in. City Councils pushed back. School boards flipped. Yet, in Southwest Florida, 2025 proved that political gravity still pulls hard toward Tallahassee.
From airport governance fights and higher education shakeups to school board drama and rare recall elections, the year was defined by clashes over who holds power.
Florida Politics has curated the top stories that capture the moments that shaped local government and education across Southwest Florida in 2025. Familiar figures returned, institutions were reshaped, and community pushback met an increasingly centralized political reality.
Together, they tell the story of a region grappling with state influence, voter intent and the limits of local control.
New College expansion plans unsettle Sarasota’s higher education landscape
New College of Florida spent much of 2025 at the center of a high-stakes tug-of-war over control of Sarasota’s cultural and academic institutions, with support from DeSantis, who repeatedly floated proposals that would dramatically expand the school’s footprint.
The year opened with a DeSantis proposal to strip Florida State University of control over The Ringling Museum complex and place the internationally recognized cultural assets under New College’s management. Lawmakers ultimately shelved that plan in the Spring, along with a separate concept that would have placed New College in charge of the University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee campus.
But the issue resurfaced late this year in far more concrete form. DeSantis’ December budget proposal revived the push by directing a wholesale transfer of all USF Sarasota-Manatee campus facilities to New College. Around a week later, New College Trustees approved a new comprehensive plan that showcases plans for rapid expansion if certain political hurdles are cleared. And New College continues to hold out hope for a land purchase from the Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport.
The renewed proposal underscores the DeSantis administration’s commitment to reshaping New College into a larger, more influential institution in Sarasota and Manatee counties.
Naples Airport Authority overhaul ignites home rule fight
A push by Collier County lawmakers to overhaul governance of the Naples Airport Authority became one of Southwest Florida’s most contentious political storylines of 2025, exposing deep rifts between state legislators, city officials and aviation stakeholders.
The effort, led by Rep. Adam Botana, aims to replace the long-standing structure of the city-appointed Naples Airport Authority with an elected board. Supporters argue the airport serves the broader region and should be accountable to all Collier County voters, while critics warn the move would dilute Naples’ control over its own destiny and undermine home rule.
Tensions escalated after the Airport Authority rejected millions in federal aviation grants and Naples City Council attempted, but later abandoned the effort, to expand its oversight of airport development. Those decisions fueled frustration among pilots, tenants and some lawmakers, who questioned the board’s composition and its dependence on city politics.
The dispute spilled into public view through sharply worded exchanges between city and state leaders, highlighting broader friction over local authority, taxation and the Legislature’s growing role in municipal affairs. Despite vocal opposition from the City of Naples, Botana’s proposal advanced steadily, winning unanimous support from the Collier legislative delegation and clearing its first House committee without debate.
The bill is positioned to place all five Airport Authority seats on the 2026 ballot if approved by the Legislature in the new year.
Karen Rose, Bridget Ziegler and Sarasota education politics come full circle
Sarasota County’s education politics in 2025 were defined by reversals, returns and unresolved controversy, as familiar figures cycled back into power despite voter pushback and lingering scandal.
The year began with fallout from the 2024 election, when voters rejected several conservative Sarasota County School Board candidates aligned with Gov. Ron DeSantis, including incumbent Karen Rose. But DeSantis remedied that months later by appointing Rose back onto the School Board months later to fill a vacancy, effectively restoring her to office despite her recent electoral defeat.
The dance did not stop there. Rose’s return placed her once again alongside Bridget Ziegler, whose influence on the School Board has persisted despite national scrutiny. Ziegler, a co-founder of Moms for Liberty, remained on the board after a 2023 sex scandal involving her husband, former Florida GOP Chair Christian Ziegler, made headlines and fractured political circles. That dispute continued in 2025, when the Ziegler’s sued the City of Sarasota and police detectives alleging constitutional violations stemming from an investigation that ultimately produced no criminal charges.
Although Rose once called for Ziegler’s resignation in the early days of the scandal, the two women reemerged in leadership roles by year’s end. Once re-installed by DeSantis, Rose helped return Ziegler to the School Board Chairmanship. Simultaneously Rose herself advanced through confirmation to a powerful regional post on the State College of Florida Board of Trustees, another DeSantis appointment.
Together, their political resurgence underscores a broader theme that defined Sarasota’s education landscape in 2025. Voter backlash did not translate to lasting change, and controversies that once seemed career-ending have become ammo in court.
Schools of Hope expansion triggers backlash in Sarasota and across the state
Florida’s Schools of Hope program emerged as one of the most volatile education fights of 2025, with Sarasota County becoming an early focal point for the growing backlash against a state mandate that allows charter schools to claim space in public school buildings.
Budget language approved for the 2025–26 fiscal year dramatically broadened the program, allowing “Hope operators” to claim space inside any public school deemed underused, regardless of academic performance or local approval. Because every school district contains an opportunity zone, the change effectively opened thousands of campuses statewide to potential charter incursions.
In Sarasota County, Miami-based charter networks quickly signaled interest in occupying space inside campuses with strong academic track records. The letters of intent stoked fears that successful public schools could be forced to share classrooms, cafeterias and playgrounds with outside operators with no ties to the community, and without compensation for use of space and resources.
DeSantis defended the policy as a targeted intervention aimed at struggling communities, insisting most Floridians would never notice the schools being created. But data shows the program’s reach extends well beyond traditionally underserved areas. By Fall, bipartisan frustration had spilled into the Legislature. A bill filed by Sen. Darryl Rouson aims to repeal the co-location requirement entirely, arguing the policy amounted to an unfunded mandate that forced districts to subsidize private operators.
Sarasota’s experience is one of many similar tales in communities across the state, forcing communities to scramble to either respond or fight to protect classrooms from what many view as forced takeovers. Rouson’s SB 424 will be one to watch during the 2026 Legislative Session.
Fort Myers immigration vote triggers Uthmeier
In Fort Myers, a split City Council vote rejected an agreement with federal immigration authorities triggered a rapid response from state leaders. Attorney General James Uthmeier warned the city risked being labeled a “sanctuary” jurisdiction and suggested Council members could face removal from office. The standoff highlighted how little room local governments had to maneuver on immigration policy once Tallahassee drew a hard line.
Florida land purchase ends in court dispute over contaminated land
In Collier County, pushback took a more personal note. Parker Collier, matriarch of a powerful real estate family, sued a former adviser for defamation after allegations surfaced that contaminated land had been sold to the state as part of a major conservation deal. The case opened a bitter dispute that blends environmental concerns, political influence and the limit of public accountability on high-dollar land deals.
Fort Myers Beach voters force the recall of two Council members
On Fort Myers Beach, voters delivered one of the rarest rebukes in local politics: A successful recall. Residents ousted Town Council members Karen Woodson and John King — although King’s case is tied up in court — over support for a controversial high-rise redevelopment at the site of the Red Coconut RV Park after it was destroyed by Hurricane Ian. The vote marked the county’s first successful recall in decades.
Enos resignation opens door for Karen Rose
Board Chair Tim Enos resigned mid-year to return to his former role as chief of the Sarasota County Schools Police Department. His departure reopened questions about continuity and control, temporarily leaving the board evenly split and handing Gov. DeSantis another appointment to tilt the board’s direction. He used that appointment on Rose.
Sarasota school board debates anti-discrimination policy
Board members also reconsidered the district’s long-standing anti-discrimination policy, weighing whether to replace explicit protections for specific groups with language more in line with federal guidance under President Donald Trump. Critics warned the change could weaken safeguards for vulnerable students and staff, while supporters framed it as compliance amid legal and political uncertainty.
Tension over Tom Edwards support for inclusion
Political tensions sparked again when local Republicans called for openly gay Board member Tom Edwards to resign after he accepted a leadership role with a nonprofit focused on inclusion. Edwards brushed off the demand as partisan noise, but the episode reflected how school governance in Sarasota remains entangled in culture-war politics.
Good Sunday morning, and welcome back to “Brunch,” a pop-up newsletter about the 2026 Legislative Session and more.
We’re at Atlantis celebrating our 14th wedding anniversary AND the 18th birthday of Stephanie Smith’s niece.
I was 2-for-2 yesterday at the Atlantis Sportsbook, although I fear my Denver Broncos (we love former UCF RB R.J. Harvey) won’t advance next week after losing QB Bo Nix to an ankle injury. I really like the Texans’ chances of pulling off an upset over the Pats today. And I’ll take the Rams over the Bears. The Texans and Rams were my Week 14 Super Bowl pick, so I’m probably wishcasting for them to win today to keep alive the hope of that bet hitting.
And a top-of-Brunch happy birthday to former Speaker Larry Cretul.
If you’re looking for something to listen to on your next bike ride, check out the podcast I did with my former colleague Ryan Ray. Let’s just say that I did not hold back. Listen here.
Check out our choices for the Winner and Loser of the Week in Florida Politics by clicking here.
Now, please enjoy Brunch.
— Extra! Extra! —
After receiving such positive feedback about the first edition of IN SESSION, our newspaper covering the Legislative Session, we plan to deliver at least two more editions. The next edition will hit the week of Feb. 9, headlined by an interview with Sen. Jim Boyd. It will also include several Valentine’s Day features.
— To advertise in this edition, you’ll need to reserve space by Jan. 26 and provide creative by Feb. 2. Right now, and through Tuesday morning, we are offering a discounted price of $800 for a full-page ad (instead of $1K) and $600 for a half-page ad (instead of $750).
— If you wish to advertise, email me at [email protected]. Also, if you previously purchased an ad for the second edition, remind me and resend your creative.
— MLK Day rundown —
Communities statewide are gearing up for Martin Luther King Jr. Day on Monday. Major cities will host parades, marches and celebrations to honor Dr. King’s legacy.
— Jacksonville: The 45th Annual MLK Holiday Grand Parade will take place Monday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. downtown. The community parade will showcase marching bands and civic groups celebrating King’s vision.
— Fort Lauderdale: The city’s King Holiday Parade and Festival begins early, at 9:30 a.m. The march departs from Sistrunk Boulevard & NW 5th Avenue and proceeds west to Carter Park. The park will then host a multicultural festival.
— Miami: The 49th Annual MLK Parade kicks off at 11 a.m. in Liberty City along NW 54th Street. It features marching bands, drill teams, elected officials and community groups. The route ends at MLK Memorial Park with the MLK Family Festival running from 12-5 p.m. Following the parade, families can enjoy live music, dance performances and food vendors.
— Tampa: The city’s MLK Day Parade begins at noon at Cuscaden Park. The 2026 parade will feature the Edward Waters University Triple Threat Marching Band. Monday evening at 7:30, the Straz Center will host an MLK Commemoration. This evening’s ceremony will include gospel music, dancing, and readings of Dr. King’s writings and other works.
— St. Petersburg: Its MLK Parade will run from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. downtown from 3rd Street South to 16th Street North. The annual parade highlights Dr. King’s legacy with marching bands, floats and more.
— Pensacola: The city’s 37th Annual MLK Parade will start downtown at the corner of Spring & Garden Streets at 11 a.m. The theme this year is “With Unity, We Won’t Turn Back.”
— Gainesville: At noon, the MLK National Holiday Parade will begin at the MLK Memorial Gardens. At 1 p.m., a free celebration at the MLK Multipurpose Center will feature marching bands, floats and dance groups. City-sponsored shuttle buses will be available for the event.
— Tallahassee: The Capital City will begin its MLK Day Parade at noon. The parade runs along Monroe Street from Tennessee Street, heading south. The event will be followed by a free festival on Adams Street from 1-4 p.m., featuring guest speakers and live music. A Day of Dialogue event will also take place from 1:30-3 p.m. on the second floor of the City Commission Chambers.
— Proper property priority —
A new poll from the Florida Policy Institute (FPI) suggests voters want lawmakers to focus more on property insurance relief than on cutting property taxes as the 2026 Session gets underway.
— By the numbers: Sixty-three percent of voters said insurance relief should be the higher priority — including majorities of Democrats, Republicans and independents — compared with 32% who favored property tax relief.
— Tax cut caution: Nearly half of voters oppose eliminating non-school property taxes on homesteads, once told it could force local governments to cut services or raise other taxes.
— Legislative backdrop: The findings land as lawmakers weigh multiple property tax proposals, including joint resolutions that would need 60% voter approval to pass in November.
— Alternate routes: “There are better ways to address Florida’s affordability crisis,” said Sadaf Knight, CEO of FPI. “For example, Florida could enact a Working Floridians Tax Rebate, a state-level version of the Earned Income Tax Credit, or a property tax circuit breaker program to provide a property tax rebate for people with low to moderate income.”
The takeaway is that while affordability remains top of mind, voters appear wary of sweeping tax changes that could come with trade-offs for local services.
— Easter egg —
The Legislative Session is underway. Our state leaders did not disappoint. So many dog whistles blown in the first week — from the infamous handshake snub to passive-aggressive references in Session speeches. The chattering class had plenty to chat about. But there is one orange Easter egg that I bet most of you missed. In typical Florida Politics fashion, let me enlighten you.
— Day One moment: Did anyone watch the remarks of the House Budget Chair Lawrence McClure on Day One? He closed on a significant bill for the President of the Senate, Ben Albritton. It’s a bill that tilts the scales in favor of the phosphate industry against trial lawyers. And for those following along, the largest phosphate company is located right in the heart of Albritton’s district.
— Last year’s loss: Last year, the bill died, normally a rare event for a presidential priority. McClure gave a “not so subtle” explanation for the bill’s death. While doing so, he held an orange — a great big bright Florida orange in his hand.
— Read between the peels: McClure would not and will not say why he held it, so it is left to us political observers to peel it back.
— Power reminder: I say McClure held the orange as a way to remind Albritton that he and he alone is the President of the Senate. Yes, there is the ecumenical, team-sport, counsel-of-war-lords, “every Senator has an equal voice” rhetoric that is quintessential to the Senate vibe. However, the rhetoric must be balanced with the reality that there is only one Senate President. Leadership matters. Bucks stop with presiding officers. The orange is a reminder that every presiding officer gets to make their mark — and Albritton needs to make his.
At the end of the day, only one portrait will be hung in the Chamber. The President likes to quote Bible verses. It is one of the endearing things about him. Esther 4:14 says, “Yet who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?” Color me crazy, but I think that is the message of the McClure orange.
— Road warriors —
President Donald J. Trump Boulevard is now a reality, after a dedication of the thoroughfare on Friday in West Palm Beach, completing a priority of Florida Republicans in his adopted hometown.
— Background: The Legislature passed the bill last year. Per the law, the “portion of Southern Boulevard between Kirk Road and S. Ocean Boulevard in Palm Beach County is designated as President Donald J. Trump Boulevard.” Palm Beach Republican Rep. Meg Weinberger said last year that the “honor reflects the sentiments of my fellow Floridians who appreciate his dedication to our state and country” and that she was “proud that he will be memorialized forever on the eastern part of Southern Boulevard.” This is the second road to be named after Trump in recent years. In Hialeah, Palm Avenue was renamed Donald J. Trump Avenue in 2024.
— The unveiling: At Mar-a-Lago on Friday, Trump and Weinberger unveiled what the President called a “serious sign,” with remarks that included the President’s trademark humor. He said that staffers told him, “Sir, there’s a wedding here, can you move it quickly?” He responded, “No, I’m not moving this quickly.”
— The honor: “I’m tremendously honored that the main boulevard from Palm Beach International Airport to the beautiful Mar-a-Lago is being renamed in my honor… I love the people of Florida… I’ll remember this amazing gesture for the rest of my life,” Trump said at the event, per the Rapid Response 47 account on X.
— What Florida Pols are saying: “An incredible privilege today to stand alongside my colleagues — including bill sponsor (Weinberger) — to honor our President, who has reshaped the world by prioritizing peace and reinvigorated the American Spirit by fighting for common sense,” said House Speaker Daniel Perez. Meanwhile, Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson said, “What an honor to be with President Trump today to celebrate the newly-minted President Donald J. Trump Boulevard!”
— New year, new Carlos —
Democratic Sen. Carlos Guillermo Smith doesn’t often find himself aligned with Senate Republicans on criminal justice issues. Still, during a Senate Criminal Justice Committee meeting this week, he leaned into the calendar.
— After flagging concerns with a bill, Smith ultimately voted in favor, joking that it’s 2026 and he’s embracing a fresh approach.
— “New year means also new Carlos,” Smith said, drawing laughs in the room.
— Smith, who serves as Vice Chair of the Committee, also presided over part of the meeting and appeared to enjoy the moment, cracking wise as he called up legislation sponsored by Sen. Kristen Arrington.
— “I actually now am in charge of this Committee, apparently. Happy new year. New year, new Carlos,” he said.
— Foodie Frolics —
The Senate’s beloved Foodie Frolic is back for the 2026 Session, bringing lawmakers another round of good eats with a side of workforce training.
— On the menu: Culinary students from across the state will once again take center stage, showcasing skills honed through career and technical education programs tied to real-world jobs, from classic fine dining to contemporary cuisine.
— This year’s twist: Several events will spotlight the Feeding Florida network and its Farmers Feeding Florida partnership, blending culinary training with the fight against food insecurity.
— Dates to know: The Senate Portico will host a full slate of luncheons and receptions from the start of Session through Feb. 25, the last of which includes a special recognition lunch honoring Senate spouses.
Senate families got a taste of the action on Opening Day, when Feeding South Florida and the Treasure Coast Food Bank hosted the kickoff luncheon.
— The week ahead —
Here’s what’s on tap around the Capitol this week as advocacy groups, lawmakers, and lobbyists settle into the rhythm of Session.
— Tuesday: YMCA Advocacy Days kick off the week, bringing YMCA leaders, youth advocates, and volunteers from across the state to Tallahassee to talk child safety, literacy, and youth development with lawmakers. After hours, some legislators and staffers will trade policy talk for hockey as the Lightning Caucus gathers to watch the Tampa Bay Lightning take on the San Jose Sharks.
— Wednesday: It’s a packed house at the Capitol, led by Florida State University Day at the Capitol, with students, faculty, alums, and administrators filling the Rotunda to showcase campus programs and priorities. Displays will be on the 2nd and 3rd Floor Rotundas from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., with lunch and entertainment slated for the Capitol courtyard from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
—Also on Wednesday: It’s the Florida Cattlemen’s Association Boots on the Hill event put on by FCA and the United Dairy Farmers of Florida. The reception runs from 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. in the Florida Historic Capitol Museum. Tourism leaders will also be out in force for Florida Tourism Day, while county officials fan out for the Florida Association of Counties Legislative Day.
— Thursday: Advocacy turns to seniors on AARP Day at the Capitol, highlighting issues important to Floridians 50-plus.
— Friday: The week wraps with the HurriGains 5K Glow Run, a nighttime, glow-in-the-dark 5Kthat will benefit the Florida Disaster Foundation. On-site registration is $35; pre-registration is $25 and is available online.
— GOP edge —
As the election year begins, a new Florida Chamber poll shows Republicans maintaining a statewide advantage similar to the margins seen in 2022 and 2024.
— Generic ballot: The survey found that 49% of voters say they will support a Republican candidate in November, compared with 41% backing a generic Democrat.
— Key blocs: Republicans currently lead among no-party voters 42% to 38%, and hold a sizable edge with Hispanic voters, 52% to 39%.
The numbers suggest the GOP enters the cycle with familiar structural advantages, even as both parties gear up for a high-stakes election year.
— Bigfooting the Primary —
Most of the speculation following U.S. Rep. Neal Dunn’s retirement has surrounded the Republican field in Florida’s 2nd Congressional District. But just a decade ago, a Democrat represented CD 2. Will Gwen Graham run again?
— Potentially: Florida Politics reached out to the ex-Congresswoman. Her quick message back? “I’m thinking about it.”
— Could she win? Granted, Florida doesn’t look the same as when she unseated Republican U.S. Rep. Steve Southerland in 2014. But her victory came in that cycle despite a national red wave, and forecasters predict a blue wave in November. Plus, the well-wishes after the death of her father, former Gov. Bob Graham, in 2024 show people still hold warm feelings.
— Crowded field: Already, three Democrats were campaigning to unseat Dunn. The rumor mill suggests other Democrats may enter a race for an open seat, such as former U.S. Rep. Al Lawson and former state Sen. Loranne Ausley.
— What could have been: Graham brings history, especially from a 2018 run for Governor recalled by Democrats as a historical what-coulda-been. After Andrew Gillum’s surprise Democratic Primary win over Graham, the progressive lost to Republican Ron DeSantis by under 33,000 votes. Had moderate Graham advanced, it may have detoured Florida’s rightward swing.
— Continuing teasing: Graham ended the week with a post stressing her history of victory. “I love our country and our state, and I know one thing for certain: More than ever, Washington needs The North Florida Way.”
— Ice breaker —
The Republican Party of Florida is inviting donors to mix politics and hockey with a fundraiser tied to the NHL Stadium Series coming to Tampa.
— Game night: The event centers on the Tampa Bay Lightning vs. Boston Bruins matchup at Raymond James Stadium on Feb. 1, with puck drop set for 6:30 p.m.
— Big names: Attorney General James Uthmeier, Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia and Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson are listed as special guests.
The pitch leans on a rare Florida hockey spectacle, pairing an outdoor NHL game with a GOP fundraising push ahead of the 2026 Elections.
— Apalachicola Bay reopens —
For the first time since 2020, Apalachicola Bay is reopening for oyster harvest, with a limited 2026 season running now through Feb. 28.
— Why now? State officials cite years of oyster reef restoration and a revised management plan approved by the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission that links harvest levels to current oyster abundance.
— By the numbers: Commercial Apalachicola Bay Endorsement holders will divide roughly 4,700 bags this season, while recreational permit holders are limited to one bag for the entire opening.
— Long road back: The bay faced a fishery collapse in 2013, followed by multiple emergency orders and a five-year shutdown designed to give depleted reefs time to recover.
— State investment: Since 2019, more than $38 million has gone toward restoration projects and monitoring efforts led by FWC and environmental partners.
It’s a milestone moment for the Panhandle, where Apalachicola oysters once powered a name-brand industry that accounted for the vast majority of Florida’s commercial oyster landings.
— Title shot —
The Miami Hurricanes will play for college football’s national championship for the first time since 2001 when they face Indiana (7:30 p.m. ET, Jan. 19, ABC).
— Semifinal finish: The Hurricanes advanced with a thrilling 31-27 national semifinal win over Ole Miss on Thursday. Quarterback Carson Beck’s three-yard touchdown run with 18 seconds left provided the final margin.
— Playoff path: Miami nearly missed the College Football Playoff but got in as the No. 10 seed. The Hurricanes defeated Texas A&M in the first round, then upset second-seed Ohio State in the quarterfinals.
— Home stage: Miami will have the opportunity to celebrate a championship at home. The CFP title game is scheduled for Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, the Canes’ home stadium.
This is the second year of the expanded 12-team playoff. Last season, Ohio State won the crown as an eighth seed.
— Brunching Out —
Hayward House, located steps from the Capitol, has added an elegant new delicacy to its menu: caviar.
— Backstory: Ashley Chaney, owner of the downtown restaurant, is a lover of caviar. “I seek it out,” Chaney said. After discovering high-quality caviar from award-winning chef Thomas Keller while on vacation, she aimed to serve it at Hayward House. After about a year of talks and working out details, Keller’s brand, Regiis Ova, is now available at the restaurant. The brand sources its caviar from sturgeon farms in California and from around the world.
— The caviar: Hayward House offers caviar in a few ways. Caviar snacks are a shareable treat. The French onion dip, made with caramelized onion cream and chives, surrounded by housemade kettle chips, features a topping of 10 grams of Regiis Classic Caviar for $27. On the trio of deviled eggs, each half is finished with caviar for $22. With the Caviar Bump, the diner savors a 5-gram serving ($20) that you can eat off your hand (much like licking salt off your hand with a margarita). The caviar star is the Golden Ossetra Caviar, known for its nutty flavor and buttery finish, presented in a classic style with blinis, crème fraiche, chives and shallots ($175 and shareable for a party of eight or 10). The caviar, with the Bump and classic service, is served with a mother-of-pearl spoon (a silver or metal spoon can alter the taste).
— Beverages: The full bar serves wine (by the glass/bottle), beer (with local choices) and fun cocktails such as a Tupelo Old Fashioned, Old Money and a Hot Honey Margarita.
— Details: Hayward House, 228 S. Adams St., 850-825-7081. Open 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday to Thursday, 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. (brunch to 4 p.m.) Saturday, 10 to 4 p.m. Sunday brunch. Happy hour is 3-6 p.m. from Monday-Friday.
— Brunching Out, part deux —
The new home of Deep Brewing Company & Kitchen has made a big splash in Tallahassee’s hospitality scene. Aside from its own small-batch ales and lagers, Deep is becoming known for its creative fare at brunch, lunch and dinner.
— Backstory: Ryan LaPete founded Deep at Cathay Court in 2015, following his passion for homegrown brewing. The nautical theme reflects another significant part of LaPete’s life, that of a commercial and scientific diver. LaPete opened the new Deep in September 2025, across the street from his old location, joining forces with Justin Cruz (the founder of Tally Mac Shack, SlideHustle and Vato Tacos) and chef Jeremy Dancer (formerly of Kool Beanz Cafe).
— Setting: Deep is a gleaming, 5,000-square-foot venue with high ceilings, nearly framed in glass, allowing plenty of natural light. The setting is accented with colorful tiles and copper and brass items reflecting LaPete’s love of the sea. The 50-foot concrete bar was hand-poured and finished by LaPete’s father, Frank, and Cruz. There are plenty of TVs and outdoor picnic tables.
— The menu: The restaurant’s 6-foot, wood-fired grill is the star in the kitchen. Cruz touts the flavor of dishes passing over or through the burning oak and fruitwood. The menu continues to evolve, so please check for updates. A brunch highlight on our visits: juicy, tender pork chops, served with eggs and wonderfully crisp spuds. Other dishes include Mississippi Delta fried catfish, biscuits and gravy and a breakfast platter with a pillowy biscuit, eggs (cooked your way) and those potatoes. Also, look for homemade doughnuts. Check out the dinner menu as well with items such as brisket meatloaf, churrasco and a Cuban sandwich, with plans for steak, fish and chops. Another fun attraction: Wing Wednesday.
— Beverages: Deep’s brewery lineup includes Reef Dweller, Spear Pressure, Profundo (a Mexican lager with lime) and Sublime Keylime. Deep offers seasonal stouts, IPAs, wine, craft cocktails and non-alcoholic options.
— Details: Deep Brewing Company, 2855 Pablo Ave.; 850-567-0295. The restaurant is open at 7 a.m. Wednesday to Friday, and at 9 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday. The restaurant closes at 9 p.m. on Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday and at 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.
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