Olivia and On Swann Set to Open in Sarasota in 2026

Bring your friends and family to experience the authentic flavors at Olivia and On Swann in Sarasota.

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News Summary

Food lovers in Sarasota can look forward to two popular Tampa eateries, Olivia and On Swann, opening in early 2026 at University Town Center. Both restaurants promise to deliver exquisite culinary experiences along North Cattlemen Road, with a focus on authentic Italian and contemporary American cuisines. Chef Ponte and his family run these establishments, ensuring a welcoming atmosphere and high-quality dishes. This addition will enhance UTC’s reputation as a dining destination, further enriching the food scene in the area.

Exciting News for Food Lovers in Sarasota!

Get ready to indulge your taste buds, Sarasota! Two beloved Tampa restaurants, Olivia and On Swann, are making their way to University Town Center (UTC) with plans to welcome hungry diners in early 2026. This fantastic development is causing quite a buzz in the community, especially with both restaurants set to open up right next to each other along North Cattlemen Road, opposite the popular Ford’s Garage.

What to Expect from Olivia

First up, let’s talk about Olivia. This family-run eatery is all about authentic Italian cuisine and will cover a spacious 6,500 square feet. Designed to reflect the cozy charm of a traditional Italian trattoria, Olivia will feature a unique wine vault and spacious bar area, making it the perfect spot for both intimate dinners and festive celebrations. One of the most exciting aspects of this restaurant is its dedication to showcasing the art of cooking. Patrons will have the special experience of watching staff create fresh pasta and pizza dough in a large-windowed room, bringing the culinary process to life right before their eyes.

Originally opened in South Tampa in 2019 and named after Chef Ponte’s daughter, Olivia is already beloved by locals. And with a brand new location recently launched in St. Petersburg, it’s clear this restaurant is on the rise!

On Swann: A Must-Try American Gem

Just next door, On Swann is ready to join the culinary scene. This contemporary American restaurant has made quite a name for itself since its first opening in Hyde Park Village, Tampa, back in 2016. With around 5,000 square feet to work with, On Swann will serve up a delicious menu featuring items like crispy hot chicken tenders kindly drizzled with paprika honey butter and scrumptious lamb meatballs served atop creamy grits. Yum!

Just like Olivia, On Swann is all about transparency in cooking as dishes will be prepared in an open kitchen setting, allowing guests to see the talented culinary team in action. Chef Chris Ponte, known for his creativity and passion for food, is teaming up with Chris Arreola for this adventure. Together, they plan to impress patrons with the same beloved menu as their Tampa counterpart, plus some exclusive chef-led specials that will keep things fresh and exciting!

A Family Affair

The driving force behind both restaurants is the talented Chef Ponte, who operates these establishments alongside his wife, Michelle, and their two sons, JT and Andy Mahoney. The Ponte family not only brings an incredible wealth of experience to the table but has also treated their dining venues as family operations—ensuring a warm and welcoming atmosphere for patrons.

Chef Ponte has amassed numerous accolades throughout his culinary career, including a noteworthy James Beard nomination in 2017, underscoring the quality and creativity found in his dishes. His focus on consistency and performance-based growth has made his establishments favorites among locals and visitors alike.

The Big Picture: A Culinary Hub at UTC

With over 80 restaurants housed within the expansive 4 million square feet of property in UTC, the addition of Olivia and On Swann is sure to enhance the area’s reputation as a dining and entertainment haven near the Sarasota and Manatee county border. Recently welcomed restaurants, like Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse and Sprinkles Cupcakes, are just a sampling of what UTC has to offer, and the excitement continues as construction for Olivia and On Swann is slated to kick off within the next month.

So, mark your calendars for 2026, food lovers! Sarasota is about to become the place to be for amazing dining experiences that are not only tasty but also rooted in family tradition. Olivia and On Swann are coming to town, and they are ready to make waves in the culinary scene!