Chris Voelker

Proprietor of State Street Eating House + Cocktails

As if she doesn’t already have enough on her plate, restaurateur Chris Voelker has just returned from California for inspiration for a new exciting restaurant venture. She won’t reveal the details yet, but knowing Chris, she will take Sarasota by storm, again.

Hailing from Los Angeles, her first venture in the industry was State Street Eating House + Cocktails in Sarasota. The L.A. urban-vibe restaurant soon became wildly popular, attracting appreciative guests and winning prestigious awards.

“I found to my surprise in that I loved meeting the community – it is a big bonus of owning a restaurant,” Chris admits. “It’s a lot of work, but it’s very gratifying. You meet the coolest people. I had the opportunity to meet a lot of people that I might not have normally met. And our employees are great people.”

Chris also holds board positions in many aspects of community welfare, mastering the art of making a difference: improving downtown, supporting Sarasota Memorial Hospital, and more. As Humane Society Chair, she effected significant enhancements including renovating the facility, and adding a high-end, low-cost veterinarian clinic. The clinic made quality pet healthcare affordable while providing the Society a much-needed revenue stream. 

 “I am passionate about all my endeavors; it runs through everything I do,” Chris says. “I have boundless energy, so I think it’s in my DNA to keep very busy.”  

Today, she spends much of her time tending to the restaurant. “I have people saying, ‘we want to thank you for keeping the restaurant open as best you can (during the pandemic), and we appreciate the quality of your food.’ And that is very heartwarming.”

Covid remains a challenge, even in the upcoming launch of a new restaurant. Chris remains undaunted. “Challenging is the key word,” she says. “You just have to figure it out.” 

Chris Voelker
Proprietor
State Street Eating House + Cocktails
1533 State Street, 
Sarasota, FL 34236
(941) 951-1533
statestreetsrq.com