Things to do in Gainesville: Dragonfly Sushi & Sake
Delight in Culinary Excellence: Dragonfly Sushi & Sake Restaurant, An Oasis of Flavor in Downtown Gainesville
Website: https://dragonflyrestaurants.com/
Address: 201 SE 2nd Ave #104, Gainesville, FL 32601
The StayGainesville Connection: StayGainesville's Susannah Peddie has been a superfan of Dragonfly sushi since 2002 (when she and her husband moved to Gainesville). They have seen the restaurant go through their space expansions and changes in decor and the menu. It's their regular go-to spot for a fun night out. Their son learned to love sushi because of Dragonfly. They also appreciate Hiro, one of the owners, for his great community involvement and his passion for bringing great quality sushi to Gainesville.
In the heart of downtown Gainesville lies a culinary oasis where tradition meets innovation, and every bite is a journey of discovery. Welcome to Dragonfly Sushi & Sake Restaurant, where our commitment to kaizen—continuous improvement—drives them to exceed expectations with every dish and drink we serve. With ingredients sourced from Japan and local farms alike, they embrace freshness and creativity to craft an unparalleled dining experience that leaves a lasting impression on every guest.
Dragonfly's Motivation: Kaizen, the Japanese philosophy of continuous improvement, serves as the guiding force behind everything we do at Dragonfly Sushi & Sake Restaurant. From the moment you step through their doors, you'll discover a commitment to excellence that permeates every aspect of your dining experience. They believe in sourcing the finest ingredients, whether it's fish flown in from Japan or produce sourced from local farms. Their dedication to freshness ensures that each dish is a masterpiece of flavor and artistry, setting the stage for a truly unforgettable culinary journey.
At Dragonfly, they take pride in our reputation for creativity and innovation. Their talented team of chefs draws inspiration from both traditional Japanese cuisine and modern culinary techniques, resulting in dishes that are as visually stunning as they are delicious. From intricately crafted sushi rolls to flavorful izakaya-style small plates, each offering is a testament to our passion for pushing the boundaries of flavor and presentation.
What is Izakaya? At Dragonfly Sushi & Sake Restaurant, izakaya represents more than just a style of dining—it's a way of life. Rooted in Japanese tradition, izakaya is characterized by its savory, artful, and authentic dishes, paired with spirited concoctions that enliven the senses. It's a celebration of community and connection, where friends, neighbors, and family come together to share not only dishes but also thoughts and moments of joy.
In Gainesville, Florida, Dragonfly serves as a gathering place where memories are made and shared over plates of delectable cuisine and glasses of fine sake. Our vibrant izakaya-style dining experience invites guests to embark on a culinary adventure, exploring a diverse array of flavors and textures that captivate the palate and nourish the soul.
From their meticulously crafted sushi rolls to our indulgent small plates, each dish at Dragonfly tells a story of passion, creativity, and attention to detail. Whether you're savoring the rich umami flavors of our signature miso black cod or delighting in the delicate balance of our sashimi platter, you'll find that every bite is a revelation, a testament to the artistry and expertise of our culinary team.
But Dragonfly is more than just a restaurant—it's a destination, a sanctuary for food lovers and adventurers alike. Their inviting atmosphere, marked by warm lighting and sleek contemporary design, sets the stage for an unforgettable dining experience. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking an evening of culinary exploration, our attentive staff is dedicated to ensuring that every moment spent with us is nothing short of extraordinary.
As you dine with us at Dragonfly Sushi & Sake Restaurant, we invite you to embrace the spirit of kaizen—to always be improving, to savor each moment, and to find joy in every meaningful connection. Join us as we continue to push the boundaries of culinary excellence and create memories that last a lifetime.
Visit them today in downtown Gainesville, and experience the magic for yourself. Indulge in the flavors of Japan and the warmth of hospitality as you embark on a culinary journey unlike any other. They look forward to welcoming you with open arms and serving you an unforgettable dining experience.
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Get Ready: UF Gymnastics Schedule Announced & Season Tickets On Sale! Gymnastics fans, this one’s for you! The University of Florida Gators Women's Gymnastics Team has just dropped their 2026 full schedule, and season tickets are now available. If you thought last season was electric, wait until you see what’s coming next — more meets, bigger crowds, and better seats than ever before. Whether you’re a longtime supporter or new to the tumble, now’s the time to lock in your spot in the gym! What’s New This Season The 2026 gymnastics season officially begins January 9, and meets will be hosted at Exactech Arena at the Stephen C. O’Connell Center. The arena’s seating has been expanded, so fans will now have even more ways to get closer to all the action. Florida Gators Home meets will feature top-tier opponents including defending NCAA champions Oklahoma and SEC rivals like LSU — two programs known for pushing performances and bringing the intensity. Florida Gators Why This Schedule Is Huge for Fans More Access, More Energy The expanded seating means more fans can join the crowd. If you’ve missed out before, now’s your chance — the energy inside Exactech Arena is something you feel, not just see. Meetups with the Best Squads like Oklahoma and LSU set the bar high. Seeing these teams come to Gainesville gives UF fans front-row access to major collegiate gymnastics rivalries. Close to the Action New layouts mean you can get closer than ever to floor routines, vaults, and beam performances. If you've ever wanted to see the chalk puff or hear the chalkboard slap, consider this your invitation. Perfect Opportunity to Buy Early Season tickets are now on sale. Meets sell out fast. Buying now means you choose your seats first — there are multiple tiers (lower levels, premium seating, closer to apparatus) and even special club/loge-style seating for fans who want an upgraded experience. Florida Gators Gymnastics at UF: The Legacy The Florida Gators Women’s Gymnastics team is not just about high-flying routines and stunning visuals — it’s a program with roots, prestige, and consistent excellence. They’ve captured multiple national championships. They regularly send gymnasts to SEC titles, NCAA regionals, and elite competitions. Wikipedia The coaching staff is experienced, and the roster includes athletes with both big-time credentials and strong potential for growth. This isn’t just a team — it’s a source of pride for Gainesville, UF, and all Gator Nation. What to Expect From the Season Here’s a closer look at what the season has in store: Several Home Meets — Key home matches will include dramatic matchups against powerful conference and national contenders. High Production Value — Expect more fan engagement, live music or DJ sets, crowd participation, and opportunities to get up close. Sell-Out Atmosphere — With ticket demand rising, fans should anticipate a dynamic environment where the crowd becomes part of the show. Where & How to Buy Season tickets are being sold now. You can secure yours through UF’s official athletics site or ticketing platform. Florida Gators +1 There are options for upgraded/seated experiences — premium seating or lower-level views. If you live for the sound of the judges’ scores and want to be part of the roar, this is where you want to be. Florida Gators +1 For those new to gymnastics meets, ticket pricing varies depending on seat location. But early buyers get the best deal plus the best choices. TicketSmarter +1 How to Make a Weekend of Gymnastics If you're coming from out of town or just want to soak in the full experience, here are some ideas: Arrive early and explore UF’s campus: art museums, botanical gardens, and lakeside trails are great ways to get into the spirit. Grab dinner downtown to enjoy Gainesville’s food scene before showtime. Consider staying in one of Gainesville’s vacation rentals or condos (like what StayGainesville offers) so you can rest up comfortably and make gymnastics the highlight of your day, not a stress point. Why It’s the Moment to Join the Gator Gymnastics Family If any of these sound like reasons to buy tickets, they are: You love the thrill of live gymnastics — the twists, flips, beam work, vault launches. You love being part of a crowd that goes from hush to thunder. You love Gainesville. The community here around Gator gymnastics is tight-knit, passionate, and always ready to show out. This season promises bigger routines, bigger rivals, and a bigger chance to be part of something exciting. Final Thoughts The 2026 UF Gymnastics schedule is here. Season tickets are live. And for fans who have been on the fence, this is that moment to commit. Get ready for the flips, the cheers, the gasps, and the applause. Reserve your spot, bring your Gator spirit, and let’s make this season one to remember. See you at Exactech Arena! 🧡💙
Experience Satchel’s Pizza in Gainesville, FL — iconic pies, funky art, and the legendary van you can dine in. A must-visit blend of food, culture, and fun.
