This is a service of The Villages Gourmet Club containing unbiased ratings by club members. Restaurants listed serve dinner only unless otherwise stated (such as B/L/D). Fast food establishments are not included. Not every restaurant listed is considered gourmet, however most establishments are famous for at least one specialty. Underlined names are linked to another website containing more information. You may print out the description of each restaurant with the or driving directions from Spanish Springs, with or without a map, using the . In the reviews, Q stands for Food Quality, S for Wait Service and V for Meal Value, all scored 1 to 5 each. Only Club Members may submit a review; just click on that listing's . Make sure your browser preferences are set for "Enable JavaScript" for the buttons to work properly. To search for a specific location or style of food, do an EDIT/FIND (Ctrl-F) with your browser and type in the search word or phrase (like "Ocala", "Italian" or "Filet Mignon") and the browser will find the first occurrence of that word/phrase. Do Ctrl-G to find the next one on this page. Where restaurants have been reviewed at least twice, their average rating is now indicated by our STAR SYSTEM, ranging from:

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Akina Sushi Bar & Asian Fusion Bistro, 4300 South Hwy. 27, Clermont, FL. 36.5 mile drive from The Villages. 352-243-8988. L/D. Located on US27 just south of Clermont. Open at 11 AM daily except 1 PM on Sunday. Offers traditional Japanese Sushi plus items from Korea, Thailand, Singapore and China like S&S Chicken, Teriyaki, Crispy Beef, Shrimp Silken Cream Sauce, Basil Filet Mignon, Lemon Grass Chicken, Kalbee and Honey Garlic Chicken. Double Oriental Wonder is a specialty. Prices range $10-18 generally. Beer and wine available. Reservations accepted. Chi Tai, owner.

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Amelia's, 235 S. Main St., Gainesville, FL. 60.6 mile drive from The Villages. 352-373-1919. L/D. Located in the Sun Center but directly behind the Hippodrome Theater in the historic district. Perfect location for dinner before or after the theater or movie. Fine Italian cuisine with influences from Florence served by knowedgeable wait staff in a cozy dining room. Chicken, Veal and Fish entrées prepared in the Continental style such as Snapper Napoli ($13). Northern Italian specialtees also featured. Main courses range from $9 for Pasta dishes to $14 for Veal to $19 or more for beef or seafood. A few specials are prepared every day to keep the menu new. Specialty desserts are offered too. Casual attire acceptable. Reservations accepted. Full bar. Andy Fass, chef and new owner.

Review: (from Rich C. 8/06) Our favorite restaurant in Gainesville. We've eaten here 3 times in 3 months and have not been disappointed. Ricardo was our waiter (by request). Early show at "The Hipp" followed by 7:30 PM dinner makes a perfect evening. I enjoy the veal dishes. Not expensive for the nicely prepared food and inviting atmosphere. Attire tends to be more dressy by clientele choice. Nice wines too.
Q=4 S=5 V=4 Total=13 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Review: (from Martin G. 3/07) We agree with the above review. Amelia's is definitely a worthwhile choice for dinner if you're in downtown Gainesville. We chose to eat outside, the setting reminded us of places we'd been to in Europe that were similarly situated on the town square. The service was as it should be. Out waiter (Al) was attentive but did not hover. My wife ordered the Pasta Fagioli and was delighted. I started with their N.Y. Crostini, crisp toasted slices of italian bread served with a spinach and artichoke cheese sauce that was delicious. An ample salad followed, fresh greens, tomato with a tasty house vinagrette. The main courses (we picked from the daily special board) were Veal Tuscany, a wonderful creation consisting of thinly sliced veal and eggplant with provolone cheese accompanied by an excellent sauce with garlic, mushrooms and black olives. Mine was called Salmon Pompeii, a generous piece of salmon coated in a spice rub and cooked just as I like it -- not very much over a bed of fettucine with a creamy pesto sauce laced with chunks of garlic. Fresh warm bread accompanied the meal and we both had some of the house wine. We skipped coffee and dessert this time. Less tip the tab came to about $80 after a 10% AAA discount. There is a pleasant interior dining area of course for those who prefer not to eat outside. We would definitely return.
Q=5 S=5 V=4 Total=14 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Review: (from Ellen H. 12/07) We stop here for dinner or lunch whenever we are in town attending a show at "The Hipp". We were surprised to find out that a new owner had taken over this well established restaurant. The menu has not changed however. It has a very wide selection of entrées and always 3 or more premium specials. I chose Suprema di Pollo Caprese for my main course and he ordered Veal Scalloppine Sorrentino. Both were prepared very nicely and came with a side of very-aldente Penne Pasta. They were preceded by a crisp, green and well chilled house salad with Italian vinegarette dressing (their only offering). Unfortunately, for oenophiles like ourselves, the vinegar based dressing isn't friendly to the flavors of fine wine. We also ordered Vongole Origanate (Baked Clams) and Funghi Ripieni (Stuffed Mushrooms) for appetizers. Service was OK but not real friendly by a waiter that has been here for years. No room for dessert this time. With one glass of wine each, our total came to about $70 for two before tax and tip. The new owner stopped by each table to introduce himself. We were very surprised to see that on a Saturday night from 5:30 to 7:00 PM only 3 tables were occupied. Still, it would not deter us from coming back again.
Q=4 S=4 V=4 Total=12 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Review: (from Rich C. 1/09) The restaurant was not crowded at 6 PM on a Thursday night. It has even improved since our last visit under the new owner. I ordered the Caesar Salad and the Scaloppine Marsala ($18) made with wine and mushrooms. She ordered the Caesar Salad and Linguine Pesto ($13) with basil, pine nuts and a garlic cream sauce. I really enjoyed my veal. It was tender and very flavorful. She enjoyed her pesto dish very much. The salads were excellent too. Marilyn was a good waitress. Our friend asked Andy to prepare her dish with margarine instead of real butter and he accommodated her. The other two couples liked their meals too. No time for dessert. With tax, gratuity (18% on a party of 6) and just one wine the total was $55. Handy downtown location and easy free parking behind the Sun Center. Great "specials list" prepared every day. Love it here!
Q=5 S=5 V=4 Total=14 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Armani's Restaurant, 2900 Bayport Dr., Tampa, FL. 93.7 mile drive from The Villages. 813-207-6800. D. In the Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay Hotel. Award winning romantic Italian dining room with panoramic views of Tampa Bay and the Tampa Airport. The antipasti bar ($16) is well known. Veal entrées are the signature of the house. Main dishes range from $24 (Chicken Piccata) to $39 (Osso Buco) each. Pan seared Black Angus Filet ($36), Wild Boar ($33), Sautéed Dover Sole ($38) and Roast Rack of Lamb ($37) are also on the menu. Full bar and extensive wine list. Reservations suggested. Dressy casual. Frequent entertainment. Validated valet parking. Patrick Rene Schaefer, executive chef.

Atlantis, 6677 Sea Harbour Dr., Orlando, FL. 59.2 mile drive from The Villages. 407-351-5555. D. Located in the Renaissance Orlando Resort at Sea World. Upscale resort reaturant featuring Seafood, Lamb and Filet Mignon. Signature dish is Pan Roasted Sable. Formal setting but casual dress. Entrées range from $27 to $35. Reservations suggested. Full bar, extensive wine list. Rich Willerer, chef.

Bauern-Stube Restaurant, 8015 S. Orange Ave., Orlando, FL. 59.9 mile drive from The Villages. 407-857-8404. L/D. Located on CR 527 just north of Sand Lake Rd. (CR 482) and the Bee Line Exwy. (CR 528), a few miles northwest of the Orlando International Airport. In business since 1987. Open daily except Sunday, 11 AM to 2 PM for lunch and 5 to 9 PM for dinner. An authentic German restaurant that specializes in not-the-usual German fare. Gerollter Schweinebraten, Geschnitzeltes vom Rind, Kassler Rippe Angeräuchert, Frikadelle and Hühnerschnitzel are included on the menu with their English translation and full explanation for the neophytes. Usual items like Wienerschnitzel, Jägerschnitzel, Sauerbraten and even Bratwurst can also be found. A large selection of vegetarian items like Knödel, Käse Spätzle and Nudelauflauf are also offered. Homemade soups like Linsensuppe, Erbsensuppe, Gulaschsuppe and Leberknödelsuppe are popular. Entrées, served semi-a-la-carte with a potato and vegetable, run $10-28, with most in the $15-16 range. Kids menu available too. German desserts include Apfelstrudel, Austrian Sacher Torte, Schwarzwälderkirsh and the popular Rum-Balls are priced at $4.50 each. German beers like Weissbeer, Köstritzer Blackbier, Hacker, Bitburger Pils, Paulaner and Warsteiner are on tap at $5 per half liter. Spiced Wine and Rhine & Mosels are available too. Live German music on weekend evenings. Reservations accepted. 2008 Foodie Reader's Choice runner-up for "Best German Restaurant" in the Orlando area by The Orlando Sentinal. Miehe family, owners.

Bently's Restaurant, 11920 N. Florida Ave. (US 41), Dunnellon, FL. 36.8 mile drive from The Villages. 352-465-5810. L/D. Open Wednesday through Sunday, 11 AM - 9 PM. Located 1 mile south of Dunnellon, right on US 41. Continental and Italian cuisine prepared with a focus on aged premium beef. In business since 2001. Start with Escargot ($9), Six Jumbo Black Tiger Shrimp Cocktail ($11), Crab Cocktail ($12) or Bacon Wrapped Scallops ($11) as an appetizer. Entrées include Vegitarian Wellington ($13), Chicken ($14) or Veal ($18) Parmigiana, House Specialty Prime Rib Cuts ($18-21), New York Strip Steaks ($18-21), Ribeye Steaks ($19-21) and Filet Mignons ($17-26). Other meats such as Rack of Lamb ($23-30) or Leg of Lamb ($16), Veal Oscar ($20) or Stuffed Pork Chop ($13) also offered. Less expensive items like Chicken Marsala ($16) and Duck Breast ($16) also on the menu. Seafood entrées like Crab Stuffed Salmon ($19), Tilapia Italiano ($16) and Gulf Grouper ($21) add to the large selection of meals. Lobster, both whole and tails are also offered. Dinners are semi-ala-carte that include soup or salad, starch and vegetables. Dining room is described as Florida-themed with low lights, linen tablecloths and soft music. Dressy casual atmosphere. Reservations accepted. Wine list. Full bar with Happy Hour 4-9 PM on Thursdays and 4-6 PM other nights, offers 2 for 1 on house wine, well drinks or beer. Bring your own wine for an $8 corkage fee. Don and Janie Parsons, chef and owners.

Review: (from Rich C. 12/07) It's exactly an hour from The Villages and worth the drive. We had a Saturday, 5:30 PM reservation for a booth and Janie seated us promptly. Comfortable, clean and quiet with large booths; Tim was our server. Happy Hour was a real bargain with two strong Hi-Balls only $4! We shared 3 Crab Stuffed Shrimp ($8) for an appetizer. Very nice flavors in it. Our Caesar Salads ($1 extra) were green and crisp but had plain Italian Dressing on it that we didn't expect. Not the traditional Caesar flavor, unfortunately. She ordered the 8 oz. Prime Rib Medium Rare ($19) and I ordered the Dijon Salmon in Puff Pastry ($18) Special. Both were accompanied by Sautéed Vegetables and Au Gratin Potatoes. The Beef and Fish were excellent, prepared perfectly. The Au Gratins were just OK. We also had Pecan Pie and Hummingbird Cake. Both very nice. We noticed many diners brought their own premium wine for the $8 corkage fee. All Gourmet Club members should make note of this. We applaud restaurants that allow this practice. All in all, a nice, quiet, good meal. Even on a Saturday, there were at least 2 tables available all night. Total bill with 1 wine, 2 well drinks, 1 appetizer, 2 salads, 2 entrées & 2 desserts came to $64 before tax and tip. That's not bad.
Q=4 S=5 V=4 Total=13 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Bergamo's Italian Restaurant, 5250 International Dr. Suite 54, Orlando, FL. 54.6 mile drive from The Villages. 407-352-3805. D. Now located in The Festival Bay Mall. Reservations suggested. Crowded during conventions. Just as much a showplace as a restaurant, the menu is typical upscale Italian fare with a-la-carte entrées ranging from about $16 to $35 each. However, the crowds come here to listen to the staff break out in opera or broadway tunes sporatically. Both male and female servers are trained in both waiting on tables and in classical voice. A unique experience. Casual dress. Full bar. Extensive 400 label wine list. Jeffery Eicher, owner.

Review: (from Jim C. 8/07) If you want an enjoyable evening and like to be entertained while enjoying a meal, make a reservation at Bergamo's for anytime after 6:30 PM. The entertainment starts at 7:00 PM and on every hour after that. All the wait staff, including the hostess, will sing opera and show tunes. As for the food, it's as great as the entertainment, upscale "Northern Style Italian" with decent size portions. But expect to pay about $100 dollars plus, per couple. Ours was $130 for appetizers, entrées, and a half bottle of wine, coffees and tip. And yes we are going back in two weeks with another couple.
Q=4 S=5 V=5 Total=14 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Bern's Steak House, 1208 S. Howard Ave., Tampa, FL. 90.4 mile drive from The Villages. 813-251-2421. D. In the premium steak business since 1956. Filet Mignon 6oz. ($27) to 12oz. ($40), Strip Steak 8oz. ($32) to 60oz. ($218), Delmonico 8oz. ($32) to 18oz. ($68), Porterhouse 17oz. ($48) to 36oz. ($68) and T-Bone 15oz. ($44) to 32oz. ($92) are some of the dozens and dozens of steak offerings. Many Châteaubriand cuts also on the menu. 3" Lamb Chops ($27), 6-Bone Rack of Lamb ($41), 17oz. Veal Strip ($30) and 8oz. Pork Tenderloin ($30) are some of the other meat offerings. Charcoal Grilled Chicken ($24), Indonesion Chicken Curry ($23) and Roasted Duck ($36) are some of the poultry items. Salmon ($32), Snapper ($37) and Yellow Fin Tuna Diane ($39) are some of the fish dishes. Jumbo Shrimp Scampi ($30) and Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes ($38) are some of the shellfish offerings. All entrées include French Onion Soup or House Salad and Baked Potato or Vegetable Tasting. Caviar ($25-$200) also available. 12% gratuity added to the bill. Full bar and extremely extensive wine list explained by the sommelier. Tours of the kitchen and wine cellar available before being seated. The upstairs dessert room featuring Banana Cheese Pie is very popular also. Valet parking. Dressy casual. Reservations suggested. Jeannie Pierola, executive chef. Bern and son David Laxer, owners.

Blackwater Inn, 55716 Front Street, Astor, FL. 40.3 mile drive from The Villages. 888-533-3422, 352-759-3144, 352-759-2802. L/D. Open Tuesday through Friday 4:30 to 9 PM; Saturday & Sunday from 11:30 AM to 9 PM; closed Monday. Located on the west bank of the St. Johns River just off SR 40, a few miles east of US 19. All dinners include Clam Chowder or Salad Bar and Potato or Vegetable. Appetizers include Fried Alligator Bites, Onion Rings, Shrimp Cocktail or Frogs Legs ranging from $5 to 8 each. Main dishes include Catfish, Tilapia, Frog Legs, Oysters, Shrimp or Canadian Sea Scallops ranging from $12 to $19. Specialties include Crab Legs from one half to one and a half pounds ranging from $9 to $25. Other favorites include Stuffed Tilapia, Chicken Marsala, Grilled Quail and Danish Baby Back Ribs at $11 to $18. Top Sirloin, NY Strip, 5 or 8 oz. Filet Mignons, as well as Weekend Prime Rib are available from $17 to $25. Burgers and lighter dinners ranging from $6 to $12 are also on the menu. Kermit's Original Key Lime Pie from Deland is a favorite here. 17% Service Charge added to parties of 5 or more or on separate checks. Reservations accepted. Full bar. Entertainment in the lounge upstairs. Richard Coleman, chef; William Nordle, owner.

The Boheme, 325 S. Orange Ave., Orlando, FL. 55.0 mile drive from The Villages. 407-313-9000. B/L/D. Dinner served from 5 PM daily.In the plush Westin Grand Bohemian Hotel. A diverse selection of Nouvelle American cuisine with Pan-Asian and French influences. Award winning, well established restaurant. A typical meal would be Escargot "Pot au Feu" ($12), Arugula, Spinach & Orchid Salad ($9), Roasted Chilean Sea Bass ($32), Yukon Mashed Potatoes ($6) and ending with White Chocolate Lemon Tower ($9). Other a-la-carte entrées range from $19 to $36 each. Entertainment often, usually piano, blues or jazz. Dressy casual. Elaborate Sunday Jazz Brunch ($54 pp including valet parking and champagne) is popular. Reservations suggested. Valet parking. Full bar, wine list and personal wines welcomed with a corkage fee. Robert Mason, executive chef and Zachary Martin, sous chef.

Bon Appetit Restaurant & Marina Café, 148 Marina Plaza, Dunedin, FL. 105 mile drive from The Villages. 727-733-2151. L/D. Located in the Best Western Yacht Harbor Inn on the waterfront at the end of Main St. Advertised as bistro cuisine. Dinner entrées range from $14 (Medallions of Chicken Pan Sautéed) to $29 (Roasted Rack of Lamb) each. Three course dinner specials ($16) before 5 PM also available. Tapas, salads and sandwiches also on the menu. Gulfside seating available. Casual dress. Reservations accepted. Full bar. Wine list. Stephan Farqhar, chef; Peter Kreuziger, owner.

Review: (from Dennis C. 10/06) We stopped here for dinner on a weekday and were pleasantly surprised. The atmosphere is upscale but the prices are very fair. It's at the end of the motel right on the water. Good drinks, fine service and tasty food made for a pleasant early dinner. Place was filled by the time we left. Worth the wait if you have no reservation. This is the best place in town now that the French restaurant is gone from this Scottish town. $45 for two with one wine.
Q=4 S=4 V=5 Total=13 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Boston Lobster Feast, 8304 Crystal Clear Lane, Orlando, FL. 57.5 mile drive from The Villages. 407-438-0607. D. Open 4 to 10 PM daily but from 2 PM on Saturday and Sunday. Three locations in Orlando. This one at the off Orange Blossom Trail (US 441) at the Florida Mall. Other locations on International Drive and on US 192 in Kissimee. Operated since 1991. Caters mainly to tourists. Like the name implies, Whole Maine Lobster is "their thing". Snow Crabs, Shrimp, Baked Fish, P.E.I. Mussels, Salmon, Seafood AuGratin, Scallops and other creatures from the sea featured on their Seafood Buffet. Roast Beef and London Broil also available. The "Feast" also includes New England and Manhattan Clam Chowders, Lobster Bisque, various salads, as well as Oysters & Clams on the Half Shell, Peel and Eat Shrimp, Oysters Rockefeller and Crab Cakes. Side dishes and desserts are included. Beverage is extra. Standard price of $40 per person is $35 weekdays before 5 PM and sometimes advertised at $25 per person with a coupon from the local newspaper. Full bar. Jeff Hazell, owner.

Boston's Fish House, 6860 Aloma Ave., Winter Park, FL. 64.0 mile drive from The Villages. 407-678-2107. L/D. Open daily except Mondays from 11 AM to 8:30 PM. Located a few miles east of Winter Park on CR 426, just east of Semoran Blvd. (CR 436). A New England Seafood Shack noted for Homemade New England Style Clam Chowder, Sherried Lobster Bisque and Steamer Clams. Maine or Gulf Shrimp, Ipswich Clams, Canadian Sea Scallops and Oysters top the menu. Farm Raised Catfish, New England Haddock, Salmon Filet and Clam Strips can also be found on the menu. Seafood Platters run $22 with 2 sides. Other meals range $8 to $18. Pasta and Sandwiches, at $6-14, can also be ordered. Beer and wine is available. Nautical décor. Outdoor seating available. In business since 1988. Another location is in New Smyrna. Stephan and Sharon Gresek, Mark DeGraff, owners.

Brickhouse Pub, 794 W. Minneola Ave., Clermont, FL. 32.6 mile drive from The Villages. 352-242-0078. L/D. Dining hours 11 AM to 8 PM, daily. Early Bird Menu 3 PM to 6 PM. Located in a historic 1924 building, at Minneola and 8th Street, downtown Clermont, one block from Lake Minneola. This is intended to be an old-style place of brick, tin ceiling and stained glass with European flavor and pub fare. Offers Black Angus Rib-Eye Steak with Gorgonzola Butter, Steamed Mussels in Beer, Corned Beef and Cabbage, Lahvosh Pizza, English-Style Fish and Chips, Homemade Perogies, Pork Ossobucco Over Spaetzle and Holubly (Cabbage Rolls), among others. Outdoor deck overlooking the lake. Blues & jazz entertainment weekends. Early bird menu. 18 different beers on tap. Full bar. Happy hour 4-6 PM. Jeff Minkwic, chef. Mark & Debbie Lacek, owners.

Brio Tuscan Grille (Orlando), 4200 Conroy Rd., Orlando, FL. 53.2 mile drive from The Villages. 407-351-8909. L/D. At the Mall at Millenia adjacent to The Cheesecake Factory. Features Italian cuisine specializing in the Tuscan region. Large selection of Italian and Mediterranean dishes plus daily specials. Items like Mushroom Ravioli & Brown Butter, Chicken 'Under The Brick', Mezza Lasagna and Tournedo Di Manzo are just some of the interesting dishes offered. Light snack menu between lunch and dinner hours available. Very popular restarant with seating available in the air conditioned lobby of the mall as well as an outdoor terrace. Entrées range from $10 to $25 each. Reservations suggested in the evening. Casual attire accepted. Open kitchen. Full bar with signature cocktails. Varied wine list ranging from $20-85 per bottle and $6-10 per glass. One of a small chain of about 30 locations operated by Bravo! Development, Columbus Ohio. Robert Anderson, manager here. Another location is in Winter Park (see below).

Review: (from Ellen H. 6/08) Just great! We enjoyed sitting outside the restaurant proper but still in the mall entrance so we could people watch. At 2:30 pm, the lunch menu was still available. I had their Bisteca Insalata and Risotto with Chicken and Squash ($13). He had the Lobster Bisque Soup with Sherry ($6) followed by the Pasta Alla Vodka ($12). Our friends had a Chicken Arrabbiata Panini ($10) and he had just the Calamari Fritto Appetizer ($9). The food came out hot and nicely presented. The Lobster Bisque was the best I've ever tried. Our friends really enjoyed their meals too. Eric and the rest of the staff were very polite and he checked on us often. With 3 iced teas and 2 wines the total before tax came to $70 for 4 people. This is a wonderful restaurant with beautiful décor.
Q=5 S=5 V=4 Total=14 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Review: (from Rich C. 2/09) A perfect late lunch for us after picking up friends at the airport. The décor is very upscale and Mediterranean. We chose the inside dining room with its huge chandeliers and drapes. Aubrey was our server and he joked about how many male Aubreys do you know? He was very attentive. We lacked for nothing. She had a small Bistecca Salad and a small Chicken & Butternut Squash Rissoto. I had the small Caesar Salad and Pasta Vodka. Wonderful little bags filled with ricotta cheese. For drinks, she had an Iced Tea and I enjoyed two Santa Julia Pinot Grigio wines. Food was wonderful, service was excellent and the setting comfortable except for the upbeat bar music. They would do better with light opera or Andre Bocelli. A perfect meal. Our total was $43 before t&t. Our friends loved this restaurant too. A perfect stop for weary airline passengers.
Q=5 S=5 V=5 Total=15 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Review: (from Dan K. 7/09) Our anniversary dinner was exceptional. The décor and service are everything you could hope for. We chose the main dining room and were able to talk to one another. Corey was our waiter and quite attentive but not overbearing. His suggestions were right on. Started with Calamari appetizer, split a Caesar Salad and I had the best Grilled Pork Chops I have ever had. The herbs added just the right flavor. Chops were juicy and large. Brought one home. She enjoyed the Veal Marsala and it was cooked to perfection. Total before t&t was $56 for both of us. An outstanding experience. Go and treat yourself to something special.
Q=5 S=5 V=5 Total=15 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Review: (from Carol L. 7/09) My friend and I had lunch at Brio's a few days ago. I can't say enough about the food and the service. They offered three entrées under $8. We shared two of them, a Flatbread Chicken Pizza that was yummy and a Ricotta Filled Pasta with a creamy parmesan cheese sauce to die for. Even the bread was exceptional. I thought the wine was expensive at $7 a glass. Other than that it was one of the tastiest meals I've had in a long time. Can't wait to go back!
Q=5 S=5 V=4 Total=14 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Brio Tuscan Grille (Winter Park), 480 North Orlando Ave., Winter Park, FL. 60.1 mile drive from The Villages. 407-622-5611. L/D. At Winter Park Village Shops. Large airy dining room featuring regional Italian selections specializing in the Tuscan cuisine. Entrées range from $10 to $25 each. Very extensive menu of hill-town Italian dishes. Entrées such as Prosciutto & Fontina Stuffed Chicken Breast, Shrimp Arrabbiata Risotto, Gorgonzola Crusted Bistecca, Sacchetti Formaggio, Lobster Risotto, Veal Milanese, Crab Cakes, Mushroom Ravioli Al Forno and "Straw & Hay" are some of the unique offerings. Light snack menu between lunch and dinner hours available. Popular establishment. Reservations suggested in the evening. Casual attire accepted. Open kitchen. Full bar with signature cocktails. Varied wine list ranging from $20-85. One of a small chain of about 30 locations operated by Bravo! Development, Columbus Ohio. James Cartee, manager; Scott Wentworth, managing partner. Another location is at the Mall at Mellenia (see above).

Review: (from Rich C. 1/08) There are so many good restaurants in Winter Park it's hard to choose one. With massive chandeliers and paper covered linen table clothes in a large and open dining room, this setting is very attractive. I started with a large glass of Biso Pinot Grigio ($6) while I looked over the elaborate lunch menu. Soup of the day was Lobster Bisque ($6) which is one of my favorites. The 1/2 Chicken Arrabbiata Panini and Bistecca Insalata Combo ($10) gave me a number of things to try on my first visit. The Bisque was wonderful. Creamy with lots of lobster flavor and two chunks of lobster tail dropped in the top and covered with a splash of sherry. The Panini was nice with sun dried tomatos, melted provolone cheese, grilled on foccaccia. I loved the salad; it was a quarter head of iceberg with bacon, tomato cubes and gorgonzola covered in a small amount of creamy parmesan dressing. The lettuce was so crisp, it made noise as you chewed it. David was polite and checked on me often. The restaurant does a brisk business and at lunch in this town is populated with well dressed ladies just in from shopping having a bite and a bottle of wine. They can afford it here in Winter Park. Lunch for one with two wines was $28 before t&t. Great meal.
Q=5 S=4 V=4 Total=13 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Café de France, 526 Park Avenue South, Winter Park, FL. 60.4 mile drive from The Villages. 407-647-1869. L/D. Open 11:30 AM to 10 PM. Closed Sundays and Mondays and from 2:30 to 6:00 pm. between shifts on Tuesdays through Saturdays. A truly French Café with menu items like Rack of Lamb, Filet of Beef, Roasted Duck, Osso Buco and Free Range Roast Chicken. These entrées range $22 to $32. Salads are a-la-carte and range $5 to $9. Grilled Asparagus, Sauté of Spinach or Pommes Frites are also a-la-carte at $6 extra. Corkage fee of $15 for the first bottle and $20 for each additional bottle. Or choose your wine from a limited wine list or full bar. In business since 1982. Gratuity of 18% added to parties of 6 or more. $5 charge for split entrées. 2007 winner for "Best French Restaurant" in the Orlando area by WESH-2 News A-List. German & Dominique Gutierrez, owners.

Café On The Avenue, 631 N. Citrus Ave., Crystal River, FL. 48.8 mile drive from The Villages. 352-795-3656. L/D. Open Monday through Saturday for lunch 11 AM to 3 PM. Dinner is served Wednesday through Saturday 5-9 PM year-round. During October through June, also open for Sunday Brunch 10 AM to 3 PM. Closed Monday and Tuesday evenings. Located just north of US 19 in the Shoppes of Heritage Village. Dinner sized salads include The Wedge, The Avenue, Greek, Shrimp, Caesar and Garden varieties at $8-10 each. Soup selections include the popular Hearty Potato and Creamy Tomato Bacon at $4-5. Grilled entrées include Tyler's Ribeye, Chateaubriand and Filet Mignon at $15-26. Other selections include Surf & Turf Skewers, Grouper Imperial with Lump Crab, 10 oz. Beef Filet with Sherry, Ren's Chicken Breast and Seafood Fresco ranging $23-33 each. Market priced items include Grilled Grouper Filet and Grilled Lobster Tails. Lower priced offerings include Pomodoro Fresco, Pasta Avenue with Béchamel Sauce and Chicken Picata at $12-21 each. Desserts, like cakes and pies are also offered. Pumpkin Crunch Pie is popular here. French Press Coffee available. Winter Sunday A-La-Carte Brunch includes a variety of Eggs Benedict, Cheese Quiche, French Toast and a selection of breakfast meats. They run $8-16. Popular at lunch for sandwiches and salads. Reservations suggested for dinner. Occasional music weekends. Beer and wine list. Amanda Lee, owner.

Café Tu Tu Tango, 8625 International Dr., Orlando, FL. 56.0 mile drive from The Villages. 407-248-2222. L/D. Opens at 11:30 AM daily. Located near the "Mercado" on I-Drive. A dining experience unlike any other. This restaurant offers a meal for the left side of your brain. Food and art together under one roof. Multi-ethnic cuisine. Primarily a Spanish tapas-style restaurant, you can find things like Lamb Chops, Salmon Skewers, Shrimp Spring Rolls, Picadillo and Cheese Empanadas, Mango Duck Quesadillas, Pork Potstickers and small Pizzas ranging from $7 to $11 each. Consider these all appetizer sized. Two or three choices are shared with friends with a bottle of their remarkable Sangria. Flan and Guava Cheesecake for dessert too. Children's menu available and families welcome. Nice selection of wine by the glass or bottle. Champagne by split or bottle too. Full bar. Cabaret Show every Friday night at 10:30 PM. From belly dancers to flamenco to break dancers to fire eaters to conga lines to hula hoop twirling, you never know what they will do next. A real party atmosphere. Can get very busy with tourists in season at night. 2008 winner for "Best Tapas" in the Orlando area by WESH-2 News A-List. 2008 winner for "Best Overall Restaurant" in Orlando by the Orlando Sentinel. One of a small chain of just 4 restaurants (2 in Florida and 2 in California) headquartered in Coconut Grove, FL.

Caffé Positano (Apopka), 3030 E. Semoran Blvd., Apopka, FL. 43.6 mile drive from The Villages. 407-774-8080. L/D. On SR 436. Open 11 AM to 10:30 PM daily. Concentrates on the flavors of the Naples area of Italy. Pastas include the usual ones but baked ones like Penne, Manicotti and Fettuccine Maria or Roberto are also offered at $10-15. Penne Cardinale, Linguine Calamari Fra Diavolo, Pescatore or Sirena at $15-20 are also available. Chicken Francese, Bolivia, Pizzaiola and Mama Mia are some of the poultry dishes. Veal Piccata, Francese, Come Stai and Caffé Positano are $19-20. Filet Mignons are also offered. Pizza and Calzones are available too. Beer, wine and full bar offered. Another location is in Lake Mary. Roberto Barba & Michele Mandara, owners.

The Catfish Place, 311 S. Forest Ave., Apopka, FL. 40.4 mile drive from The Villages. 407-889-7980. L/D. Open 11 AM to 9 PM. Closed Sunday & Monday. Located in downtown Apopka just north of US 441 (Main St.), one block east of Park Ave. A wide variety of southern style seafood is their focus. Fresh Boneless Catfish at $14, for all you can eat, is their most popular request. Fried Shrimp, Fried Scallops Fried Oysters, Fried Clam Strips, Fried Flounder and Fried Lobster are also available ranging $10-19. A side of Filet Mignon can be added to balance the sea and land harvest. Porterhouse, Sirloin, Pork Chops and Chicken, ranging from $10 to $23, can also be found on the unusual menu. Frog Legs and Alligator at $16 is also available. Fresh Catch and Steamed Shrimp, Broiled Scallops or Flounder and Snow Crab Legs at $15-17 are available for the "fried averse" fans. Hushpuppies and Grits, or other choices, are included with the meals. Early Bird specials available from 4 to 6 PM. Burgers and other sandwiches available too. Beer and wine served. Antiques and collectibles make up the decor. Bob & Elaine Johnson owners.

Charley's Steakhouse (Orlando), 6107 S. Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando, FL. 58.8 mile drive from The Villages. 407-851-7130. D. Open from 4:30 PM daily. Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas. Operated since 1974. On US 17/92/441 just south of West Oak Ridge Road. Comfortable booths for seating large or small parties. Upscale steak place featuring huge Ribeye, Porterhouse, T-Bone and Filet Mignon cuts. Kansas City Strip, Veal Chop and Surf and Turf can also be found on the meat side of the menu. Prime and Choice grades offered. Ahi Tuna, Swordfish, King Salmon, Mahi Mahi, Chilean Sea Bass, Red Snapper, Black Grouper, as well as Alaska Black Cod can usually be found on the sea side of the menu. The "Ultimate" consists of a 50 oz. Filet Mignon paired with a 2 pound Australian Lobster Tail. A-la-carte pricing. Award winning venue. Full bar and very extensive wine list. One of a small chain of 4 Florida locations. Reservations suggested. 2007 runner-up for "Best Steakhouse" in the Orlando area by WESH-2 News A-List. 2008 Foodie Reader's Choice runner-up for "Best Steakhouse" in the Orlando area by The Orlando Sentinal. Dan Drayer, executive chef here. Annette Calabraro and Donna Carter, managers. This one has Bill Dan Beaver & John Woods as partners. A "Talk of the Town" restaurant.

Charlie's Fish House Restaurant, 224 NW US 19, Crystal River, FL. 52.4 mile drive from The Villages. 352-795-2468. L/D. Popular seafood restaurant specializing in the local catch. Entrées range $9 to $17 each. Mullet, Turbot, Tilapia, Grouper, Catfish, Crab Cakes as well as Oysters, Scallops, Shrimp, Stone Crabs and even Frogs Legs can be found on the menu. Sandwiches and Salads as well as Seafood Gumbo, Lobster Bisque, Oyster Stew and of course, New England Clam Chowder are the available soups. Beer & wine. Charles & James Kofmehl, owners.

Review: (from David M. 1/07) Had a good lunch of Turbot Stuffed with Crab and Fried Tilapia. Both were good but nothing outstanding. Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie was great! Server Debbie was excellent. If you're in the neighborhood, this is a good luncheon place or early dinner but don't drive over for evening "dining". Cost was $25 without drinks or tip.
Q=4 S=4 V=4 Total=12 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Cheesecake Factory (Orlando), 4200 Conroy Rd., Orlando, FL. 53.2 mile drive from The Villages. 407-226-0333. L/D. Located at the main entrance of the Mall at Millenia and open daily from 11 AM to 11 PM, Sunday from 10 AM. Valet & self parking in the mall lot. Elaborate surroundings. A vast array of familiar and unfamiliar meals like Cajun Jambalaya Pasta, Herb Crusted Filet of Salmon, Crispy Spicey Beef, Shrimp Scampi and Pan Seared Albacore Tuna. Steaks include Steak Diane, Filet Mignon, Skirt Steak, Beef Ribs and Grilled Pork Chops, as well as Flat Iron Steak and Grilled Rib-Eye. Pastas include Arrabbiata, Carbonara, Marinara, Bolognese and Da Vinci styles. Sandwiches are also available like the Cuban, the Reuben, Crabcake, Shrimp & Bacon Club, California Cheesesteak, even a Grilled Cheese. Pizza, Burgers and Chicken dishes are also on the menu. Weight Management items also offered, like Pear and Endive Salad. Oddities like Pot Stickers, Snow Peas and Succotash add a surprising twist. Meals can range $8-32 each, with most entrées priced about $11-17. Very large portions on many of their specialties. Sunday Brunch is very popular. Renowned for their famous cheesecakes including Godiva® Chocolate, Cherry, Snickers® Bar, Oreo® and Banana Cream. There's no end to the cheesecake flavors offered. Large full bar featuring such concoctions as the Mosquito Bite and the Flying Gorilla. Even cold Apple Cider is available. Extensive wine list. Patio seating. Casual dress. One of a large nationwide chain of over 130 locations, 14 of which are in Florida. No reservations.

Review: (from Rich C. 9/09) A friend's birthday is a good opportunity to celebrate here. There was a wait on Saturday at 3 PM, so we opted for a table for the four of us on the patio with no wait. There was a nice breeze in the shade. The menu is mind boggling. We started with two Iced Green Teas with Mint ($3), a Sweet Iced Tea ($3) and a Robert Mondavi house Chardonnay ($7.50). Our friends ordered the Cashew Chicken Salad ($12) and the Grilled Chicken Tostada Salad ($14). My better half had the Lunch Cobb Salad ($10) and I ordered the Chicken Marsala & Mushrooms ($17). Two of us also had the Cream of Chicken Soup ($5). They raved about the thick chunky soup. When our meals arrived, we were overwhelmed with the size of the portions. The Lunch Cobb and Tostada Salads were twice the size of what was expected! A second Chardonnay helped me wash down the delicious Chicken Marsala. No room for dessert but we ordered one slice of Black Out Cake ($7) to take home. There was enough for all four of us. Our service by Mohammed A. was excellent. The food arrived in a parade and was hot and nicely presented. Overall, an excellent, filling meal at $93 for four before t&t. Hats off to this great establishment.
Q=5 S=5 V=5 Total=15 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Cheesecake Factory (Winter Park), 520 North Orlando Ave., Winter Park, FL. 60.4 mile drive from The Villages. 407-644-4220. L/D. At Winter Park Village Shops next to the Regal Cinemas. Large portions of eclectic cuisines. Bang-Bang Chicken & Shrimp and Jamaican Black Pepper Shrimp are typical of seafood; with Honey Maple Pork Tenderloin and Beef Ribs typical of meat dishes. Burgers and lighter offerings like salads and tacos are also on the menu. Numerous signature cheesecakes for dessert, of course. Entrées range from $8 to $25 each. Sunday brunch. Casual dress. Very popular. Limited reservations accepted. Full bar. One of a large nationwide chain of over 130 locations headquartered in Calabasas Hills, CA.

Review: (from Francis M. 1/07) Enjoyed everything about the restaurant - service, décor and food. The menu is varied including Cajun, Tex-Mex, Steaks/Chops and Pasta. We had an excellent Chicken/Shrimp Jambalaya over Rice ($16.50) and Thai Lettuce Wraps ($10.50). Cheesecakes are their specialty and they are great - we had an excellent low carb version ($6.95) that was very good. Highly recommended!
Q=5 S=4 V=5 Total=14 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Cheeser's Palace Café, 707 W. Montrose St., Clermont, FL. 32.6 mile drive from The Villages. 352-404-9431. B/L. Located in downtown Clermont near 7th Street, open 7:30 AM to 3 PM daily except Monday and to 2 PM on Sunday. Occasionally open later during street festivals. Two room café with a European flare. Breakfast includes a variety of Omelets, Crêpes, Waffles, French Toast, Danish and Muffins. Lunch runs the gamut from Sandwiches, Burgers and Strip Steak to Soups, Salads and Cheese Plates. Prices range $7-9 for breakfast or lunch. Homemade desserts like Strudel, Brownies and Truffles also offered. Free Wi-fi. No bar. Amanda Walsh, owner.

Chef's Table At The Edgewater Hotel, 99 West Plant St., Winter Garden, FL. 42.5 mile drive from The Villages. 407-230-4837. D. Located in the historic Edgewater Hotel in downtown Winter Garden. Opens at 5:30 PM daily except Sunday and Monday when they are closed. Continental cuisine offered in a romantic atmosphere. A $50, prix fixe, 3 course menu might include Spring Mixed Salad or Foie Gras Crème Brûlée or Wild Mushroom Torte or Shrimp Grill for the first course; Grilled Rib Eye or Filet Mignon or Pork Tenderloin or Sesame Crusted Tuna or Pan Seared Duck Breast for the main course and Chocolate Souffle or Berries Sauté or Banana Walnut Bread Pudding or Sorbet & Fruit for the last course. Wine pairing at $22 per person, mating each course is offered. A Five Cheese Course is also available for $15. Beer and wine only. The chef's experience includes Victoria & Albert's (see below) and Arnaud's (New Orleans) restaurants. 2008 winner for "Best Atmosphere" in Orlando by the Orlando Sentinel. Fine linen service. Reservations accepted and advised on weekends. Laurie and Kevin (chef) Tarter, owners.

Chez Vincent, 533 West New England Ave., Winter Park, FL. 60.2 mile drive from The Villages. 407-599-2929. L/D. Open 11:30 AM to 10 PM daily, but no service from 2 to 6 PM. A few blocks west of Park Ave. in the revived Hannibal Square restaurant district. Intimate dining room. French cuisine served in a quiet atmoshpere. Dinner entrées range from $21 to $33. Paupiette de Poulet (Chicken Breast with Mushrooms) and Magret de Canard a l'Orange (Sautéed Duck in Orange Sauce) are just two of the items on the menu. Others include Filet de Chevreuil Montmorency (Venison in Port Wine), Carre d'Agneau au Bleu (Rack of Lamb with Blue Cheese Sauce) and Filet Mignon au Poivre (Beef Tenderloin with Cracked Black Pepper). For seafood they offer Truite aux Amandes (Sautéed Trout with Almonds), Merou a la Duxelle de Champignon (Sautéed Grouper with Mushrooms in a Cream Sauce), Coquilles St. Jacques (Sea Scallops Sautéed), Crevettes a l'Aneth (Gulf Shrimp in Dill Sauce), Saumon aux Framboises (Poached Salmon in a Sherry Raspberry Sauce) and Filet de Sanpper (Steamed Snapper with a Seafood Fumet Sauce). 3 soups are offered each day including Soupe a l'Oignon (French Onion) at about $6 each. Appetizers range from Moules (Mussels) to Escargot (Snails) to Grenouille (Frog Legs) to Caille (Quail) at $8-11 each. Dressy casual. White linens. Reservations accepted and advised on weekends. Full bar and nice wine list ranging $22-95 per bottle generally. 15 wines by the glass offered at $7 to $11 per glass. 2008 runner-up for "Best French Restaurant" in the Orlando area by WESH-2 News A-List. 2008 Foodie Critic's Choice winner for "Best French Restaurant" in the Orlando area by The Orlando Sentinal. A graduate of Clermont Ferrand Culinary Academy in Moulins, France - Vincent and wife Teri Gagliano, owners.

Christini's Ristorante Italiano, 7600 Dr. Phillips Blvd., Orlando, FL. 55.8 mile drive from The Villages. 407-345-8770. D. The 26 ounce Veal Chop is always at the top of their menu. Homemade Ravioli, Shrimp Diablo, Veal with 4 Cheeses and Calamari are also featured. Entrées range from $18 to $39 each. A strolling accordianist adds to the Italian atmosphere. Open since 1984. Jackets required. Full bar. Reservations accepted. Chris Christini, owner.

Clermont Café, 658 West Ave., Clermont, FL. Closed during 2008. This property is available for lease now.

Coconuts, 590 Dock St., Cedar Key, FL. 86.3 mile drive from The Villages. 352-543-6390. L/D. Recently moved to the west end of Dock St. on the water where Captain's Table was once located. Pub food delights. Shrimp, Scallop, Oyster and Wing Baskets are popular here. Sliders, Fries, Cheese Sticks, Poppers and Mushrooms are also on the limited menu. Many varieties of Hot Dawgs are also offered. Outdoor deck, overlooking the Gulf, is popular with the sun burn tolerant. Best location for sunset viewing. Occasional entertainment. Full bar. Paul & Mary Rimavicus, owners.

The Colonnade Restaurant, 3401 Bayshore Blvd., Tampa, FL. 91.5 mile drive from The Villages. 813-839-7558. L/D. Open from 11 AM daily. Located on Bayshore Blvd., just north of El Prado Blvd., facing Hillsborough Bay with a view of downtown Tampa skyline from nearly every seat in the dining room. Established in 1935 and run by 4 family generations. Locals refer to it as "The Nade". The establishment boasts a vast menu featuring USDA choice and prime grade beef and fresh seafood. Florida Grouper is featured and fixed in any of a half dozen ways. Fresh Alaskan Salmon, Farm Raised Catfish, Stuffed Flounder and Rainbow Trout are featured. Jumbo Shrimp are stuffed, fried, charbroiled or scampied. Maryland Style Crab Cakes, Bay Scallops, Crab Imperial and Oysters and also offered. Prime Rib, Iowa Filet Mignon, NY Strip and Delmonico Steaks are always available. Rock and Maine Lobster are also featured at market prices. Pasta and Chicken dishes as well as sandwiches round out the large selection. Dinner salads include Pecan Crusted Chicken Salad and a Seaside Cobb Salad. Combination Platters offer diners a taste of a few dishes. They are also noted for their $7 Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail, Key West Conch Chowder and French Onion Soup. A large selection of "Chef Selections" run daily. Prices range $11-25 generally and meals are semi-a-la-carte including two side dishes. Desserts feature home made Key Lime Pie and Chocolate Bourbon Pecan Pie. Reservations accepted. 18% gratuity added for parties of 6 or more. Casual dress. Full bar and wine list. Homemade Sangria is featured. Whiteside family, owners.

Review: (from Rich C. 6/09) We were very disappointed that Valencia Gardens is now closed and remembered the Colonnade has been in business almost as long. At 6 PM on a Friday we were able to get a table for 6 without a reservation. The menu takes a while to digest. Many "Chef Selections" are presented besides the regular meals. Seafood and steaks dominate the list. She started with a Club Soda ($2.49) and I tried their Sangria ($4.49). The Spanish drink was about the best I've had and the taste of the brandy and rich red wine complimented the fruit flavors. Parker was our server and he was friendly and knowledgeable. I ordered the Beef Tenderloin ($22) and she had a "Create A Platter" meal of Shrimp and Scallops ($15). Her House Salad and Green Beans came with the meal and I opted for a Caesar Salad ($2.49 extra) and Baked Potato. Both salads were large, green and crispy. My beef was very tender, like a Filet Mignon and she really enjoyed her fish. Our friends also liked their Soft Shell Crab, Tilapia, Broiled Shrimp and (2 large) Pork Chops. Total before t&t (with a second delicious sangria) was just $51 for two. We found no fault with the food or the service. We'll be back when we visit Tampa next time.
Q=5 S=5 V=5 Total=15 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Review: (from Laurie M. 10/09) While in Tampa, we decided to check out one of the restaurants from our club's website. We enjoyed a leisurely lunch while looking out over the water. Our server, Kevin, was very attentive and humorous. The food was tasty with genorous portions. I had the Pecan Chicken Salad, which was excellent. Hubby had a Cheeseburger, Fries and Cup of Clam Chowder. The soup was so thick you could have eaten it with a fork. The bill, with sodas & tax, was $30. A little more than we like to pay for lunch but the atmosphere was well worth it.
Q=5 S=5 V=5 Total=15 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Columbia Restaurant (Ybor City), 2117 E. 7th Ave., Tampa, FL. 87.7 mile drive from The Villages. 813-248-4961. L/D. The original location in Ybor City. Now with 6 other versions in Florida. Authentic cuisine from Spain and Cuba. Elaborate historic Spanish décor. Tapas to full dinners are available. Paella a la Valencia, Red Snapper Alicante, Grouper a la Rusa, Pompano en Papillot as well as Shrimp Criollo are some of the seafood offerings. Pollo Riojana, Filet Mignon Columbia, Palaomilla, Roast Pork a la Cubana and Rack of Veal Leno Rodriguez are some of the meat entrées. Flan and Florida Key Lime Pie are typical of the desserts. Main dishes range from $18 to $27 each. Full bar and extensive wine list. Flamenco dancing and other entertainment every evening except Sunday. Casual dress. Reservations accepted. Popular with tourists and for banquets, business dinners and lunches. Opened by Casimiro Hernandez in 1905 at this location. Still family operated.

Review: (from Dan K. 7/07) Still a fantastic experience. Took my two sisters and wife. Gaspacho is great and the bread is wonderful. Each of us had different entrées; not a bad one on the menu. Atmosphere and service is impeccable. Expect about $12-$30 per dinner and really worth it. Travel a little and go to St. Armands Circle in Sarasota or to St. Augustine for their other locations. Lunch or dinner, you will not be disappointed. Ybor City location dates to early 1900s and all are a unique experience. Try the sangria.
Q=5 S=5 V=5 Total=15 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Coolwater Grille, 2281 W US 90, Lake City, FL. 105 mile drive from The Villages. 386-961-8797. L/D. Open 11 AM - 10 PM daily. Located on US 90 one mile east of I-75 exit #427; about half way between the center of town and I-75. Offers a wide variety of Steaks, Pasta and Seafood at moderate prices. Shrimp and Fish Filets are fixed in a variety of ways. Ribeye, Sirloin and Filet Mignons are also offered. Appetizers and salads are also on the menu. Opened August 2007. Full bar with Martini Specials. Happy Hour runs from 4 to 7 PM. Toni White, manager; Steven Hornberger, owner.

Review: (from Rich C. 6/08) If you are on I-75 in northern Florida, this makes a good stop for lunch or dinner. I ordered the Pork Medallions ($15) thinking they would be pork tenderloins and she had Cedar Plank Salmon ($17). Both came with Caesar (or Mixed) Salads. The salads were excellent; cold and crisp with good tasting dressing. Her Salmon was good (not great) and appeared to be a frozen filet rather than fresh fish. My pork turned out to be thin Pork Chops; not what I expected but they were nicely done and acceptable. She enjoyed her mixed vegetables and I ate all my Baked Potato. Destiny, our young server, was polite and helpful. With one Chardonnay ($5), the bill was $37 before t&t. Not worth a special trip from The Villages, it is however the only good restaurant, in our opinion, between Gainesville and I-10.
Q=4 S=4 V=4 Total=12 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Corkscrew Grill At Lake Mary, 864 South Sun Dr., Lake Mary, FL. 51.0 mile drive from The Villages. 407-804-0105. D. 4-10 PM daily. Located off Exit 98, 2 miles east of Interstate 4, north of Heathrow, Fl. Wine bar and coffee bar with a full service restaurant. International grilled cuisine with European and Asian influences. Shrimp Cocktails ($8) are popular here. USDA Choice steaks such as 14 oz. Rib Eye, 16 oz. NY Strip Steak, 10 oz. Sirloin and 8 oz. Filet Mignon range $14-24. Grilled Atlantic Salmon, Swordfish, Ahi Tuna, Lake Victoria Wild Perch range $16-18. Chicken or Veal Piccata or Marsala range $14-18. Specialties such as Center Cut Pork Chops, Pistachio Encrusted Rack of Lamb, Ginger Sesame Pork Tenderloin and Rosemary/Orange Chicken run $12-32. Burger, Sandwiches and Salads offered for lighter appetites on the lounge menu. A selection of devilish desserts are also on the menu. Patio dining available. Jazz music in the lounge every Friday night. Full bar and wine list. 20 wines by the glass. Special martinis are offered. Reservations accepted. Owned by DNA Breads of West Seneca, NY. Ed Guerrette, manager.

Cracker's Bar & Grill, 502 NW 6th St., Crystal River, FL. 50.3 mile drive from The Villages. 352-795-3999. L/D. Located northwest of town on US 19 next to the Best Western Motel. Open daily 11 AM to late. Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas. Noted for their large outdoor deck overlooking the Crystal River plus a large sports bar dining room. Chili and Clam Chowder are popular starters. Fish & Chips, Tuna Melt, Oyster Burger and Grouper Sandwiches are on the menu. Burgers and other hot sandwiches such as French Dip, Philly Cheese Steak, Pesto Chicken, Hot Turkey & Bacon and Reubens are offered. Dinners include fried, sautéed or grilled Shrimp, Scallops, Oysters, Grouper Fingers or Chicken Tenders. You can also find Baby Back Ribs, Ribeye and Sirloin Steaks on the menu. Large salads are also available. Moderate prices. Full bars inside and out. The deck is popular for cool drinks on a hot day. David and Joseph Garrick, owners.

Dempsey's Steak House, 5700 Saddlebrook Way, Wesley Chapel, FL. 66.9 mile drive from The Villages. 813-907-4574. D. Open at 6 PM daily. This is one of the dining rooms of the Saddlebrook Golf Resort. The menu features Chops & Steaks such as a 10 oz Traditional Filet Mignon or the 14 oz Bone-In Filet Mignon, a 22 oz. Black Angus Cowboy Steak, a 14 oz. New York Strip, a 26 oz. Porterhouse Steak or a Center Cut 14 oz. Pork Chop. These range $29-60 each. Seafood specialties include Pan Seared Wild Salmon, Key West Shrimp Scampi, Sesame Seared Tuna, Gulf Snapper and Chilean Sea Bass. These run $27-30. Cold Water Lobster is also available at market prices. Lighter chicken and pasta dishes are also on the menu such as Roasted Half Chicken, Scallop Linguine and Pasta Bolognese. These range $20-26. Meals are a-la-carte with vegetables (enough for two) priced at $7-10 per serving. Celebrated tableside Caesar Salad is $9 per person additional. Soups and appetizers are also offered. Full bar. Occasional entertainment in the adjacent lounge. Reservations accepted. 18% suggested gratuity added to every check. Resort operated. Casual attire appropriate. Complimentary valet parking.

Dexter's of Winter Park, 558 West New England Ave., Winter Park, FL. 60.2 mile drive from The Villages. 407-629-1150. L/D. Three blocks west of Park Ave. in the revived restaurant district. Continental cuisine served in an open atmoshpere. Windows open to the street. Eggplant pie and stuffed meatloaf are popular. Entrées range from $11 to $26. Casual attire. Popular spot. Reservations accepted. Full bar and large wine list. Happy hour 3 to 7 PM weekdays. Movie night certain Mondays. One of a small local chain. 2007 & 2008 winner of "Best Brunch" in the Orlando area by WESH-2 News A-List and Orlando Sentinel. 2008 Foodie Critic's Choice winner for "Best Sandwiches" in the Orlando area by The Orlando Sentinal. Dexter Richardson, owner.

Review: (from Rich C. 2/07) Stopped here for lunch. [Boy, has Hannibal Square changed in the last 6 months. Can't wait until all the new restaurants open.] I had the Pressed Duck Sandwich with a "Side of Caesar". This is an incredible mouth-watering treat. Pulled roasted duck with carmelized onions and melted Brie on a toasted baguette. All nice and warm. [Just like the photo!] The salad was crisp without overwhelming dressing. A pleasant house Chardonnay completed the meal. Total was $16.50 for one but the waitress (Nanette) rounded my change up to a whole dollar. How nice. [All restaurants should do that when you pay cash.] Wish Dexter's was closer.
Q=5 S=5 V=4 Total=14 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Review: (from Dennis C. 8/09) Had 2 glasses of Anterra Pinot Grigios ($4 ea on Happy Hour) and the wonderful Pressed Duck Sandwich ($12), which they are famous for. Jordan was my server. Good food and pleasant service. My total for one was $20 before t&t. Not cheap.
Q=5 S=4 V=3 Total=12 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Dock Street Depot, 490 Dock St., Cedar Key, FL. 86.4 mile drive from The Villages. 352-543-0202. L/D. Located adjacent to the fishing pier on Dock Street. Seafood appetizers like Crab Cocktail and Smoked Salmon ($5-9) start the menu. Like other restaurants on Dock Street, this one has a Clam Chowder and Crab Bisque ($4-9) also. A number of salads like Crab Louie and Caesar Salad ($6-12) are offered. Po' Boys, Burgers, Grouper, even BLT Sandwiches ($6-9) are on the menu. Entrées include Shrimp, Oyster, Tuna, Snow Crab and Grouper dishes ($14-16). Pork Chops, Grilled Chicken, 10 oz. Sirloin Steaks and Surf & Turf ($13-18) are available too. Popular items include Crab Stew ($17), Seafood Jambalaya ($14) and Shrimp Creole ($14). Daily specials. Some tables have a view of the sunset. 17% gratuity added for parties of 6 or more. Full bar. Same owner as The Island Room at Cedar Cove (see below), Peter & Gina Stafani.

The Driftwood Grill, 515 E. Noble Ave., Williston, FL. 45.8 mile drive from The Villages. 352-528-5074. B/L/D. Located on US 27 at SE 5th St. Open every day from 6 AM to 9 PM, except Sunday from 7 AM. Offering the familiar down home cooking you were raised on. Breakfast includes the usual but also has Belgium Waffles and an Egg and Cheese Sandwich. Lunch includes Burgers, Chicken and Steak Sandwiches. Dinner items include Chopped, Salisbury, Country Fried, Grilled Ham, NY Strip and Center Cut Sirloin Steaks. They range $7-15. Other entrées include St. Louis Style Ribs, Liver & Onions, Pork Chops, Chicken Tenders and Chicken Fillet for $8-16. A variety of seafood items include Redfish or Catfish Fillets, Steamed Shrimp, Butterfly Shrimp, Clam Strips and specials such as Grouper, Tilapia or Salmon at about $8-15. Dinners come with rolls and two side dishes that run the gamut from Applesauce to Fried Corn. Salads are also available. Buffalo Wings with various sauces can also be found on the menu. Desserts are always on the board and might include the ultimate artery clogger, Fried Cheesecake. Fountain drinks and Lemonade as well as Iced Tea offered for beverages. No bar. 15% gratuity added for parties of 6 or more. Eric & Sharon Huffman, owners.

Review: (from Ellen H. 8/09) On our way home from Tallahassee and we couldn't wait until we arrived in Ocala or The Villages, so we stopped at this cute and busy place. I had an Iced Tea and he had a Pepsi (both refilled). Many daily specials were on the board, as well as 10 desserts. I ordered the Liver and Onions and forgot to ask for it medium rare, so it was a little over-done for me. Mine came with Cucumber Salad and Cottage Cheese - my 2 selections from the dozens available. He had the Veal Cutlet with Mashed Potatoes and Beets. He enjoyed his a lot, especially the homemade Mashed Potatoes. Our server forgot to bring us dinners rolls, which we would not have eaten any way. Our total was $18 including tax. OK place to stop at, since they're open every day and the locals eat here often because of the large selection of Southern, well prepared, meals.
Q=4 S=2 V=4 Total=10 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Dux, 9801 International Dr., Orlando, FL. 58.8 mile drive from The Villages. 407-345-4540. D. Opens at 6 PM. Closed Sundays. Award winning restaurant in the Peabody Orlando Hotel. Yes, it's pronounced "ducks" if you'd like. Continental cuisine with international overtones changes with the seasons. Offerings include Jumbo Crab Cakes, Grilled Lamb Loin, Veal Chops and Steaks. Entrées range from $25 to $42 each. Jackets requried. Full bar. Large wine list and personal wines permitted with a corkage fee. Reservations accepted. Karl Edlbauer, executive chef. Hotel owned.

Elephant Bar Restaurant (Altamonte Springs), 451 E. Altamonte Dr. (Route 436), Altamonte Springs, FL. 48.6 mile drive from The Villages. 407-339-1186. L/D. Open daily 11 am to 10 pm. Located just outside the Altamonte Mall, 1/2 mile east of I-4. "It's a jungle out there" and inside this restaurant too. They specialize in "elephant size" portions of exotic culinary creations. Sandwiches and Burgers ($7-13) as well as Soups and Salads ($3-12) are the usual items for a light dinner but Pacific Rim Specialties like Miso Yaki Fire Grilled Salmon, Crispy Honey Orange Shrimp, Wok Fired Mongolian Beef and Bangkok Stir-Fried Pad Thai with Chicken or Shrimp run $7-15 each for a more abundant meal. Also available are Regional Favorites like Kona BBQ Pork Ribs, Braised Lamb Shanks, Rock Sugar Braised Beef and Center Cut New York Steak with Niu Niu Coconut Shrimp Combo. They run $10-21 each. Fresh fish is also available in season. Colossal New York Cheesecake ($5) can ruin a low-cal meal. Emphasis is on fresh ingredients, sizable portions and unforgettable service. "Everything is different here!" Dining room can be noisy when the restaurant is busy. A Senior Explorers Club Card is available for senior discounts. Full bar. A growing chain of 50 locations in California, Arizona, Colorado and a few other states headquartered in La Mirada, CA. Another location is in Orlando, see below.

Elephant Bar Restaurant (Orlando), 4054 Conroy Rd., Orlando, FL. 53.3 mile drive from The Villages. 407-370-6412. L/D. Open daily 11 am to 10 pm. Located at The Mall of Mellenia. Billed as "a little strange at first", despite it's name, "Elephant" does not have any African or Indian dishes on the menu. Instead it offers Pan-Pacific creations with emphasis on Asian dishes adjusted to your individual taste, plus some "down-home" familiar fare. Roasted French Dip, Philly Cheese Steak and Ahi Tuna Sandwiches ($7-13) and Veggie, Santa Barbara and 1/2 Pound Burgers ($7-9) as well as Soups like Chicken Noodle and Salads like Iceberg Wedge and Shrimp Salad ranging $3-12, are available for a lighter dinner. Specialties like Shanghai Cashew Chicken, Miso Yaki Pork Loin Steaks and Tempura Salmon Roll run $7-15 each for a more adventuresome meal. Also available are Regional Favorites like Crispy Teriyaki Chicken, Wok Fried Sweet & Sour Chicken, Fiery Kung Pao Chicken and Shrimp Adventure Platter running $10-21 each. Fresh fish is offered daily. Chocolate, Chocolate Molten Lava Cake ($7) can ruin your low-carb meal. Unforgettable service is touted in jungle atmosphere and décor. Due to hard tile floors, restaurant can be noisy when it's busy. A Senior Explorers Club Card is available for senior discounts; ask on entering. Full bar. This is a growing chain of 50 locations in 11 states, headquartered in La Mirada, CA. Another location is in Altamonte Springs, see above.

Emeril's Restaurant, 6000 Universal Blvd., Orlando, FL. 54.6 mile drive from The Villages. 407-224-2424. L/D. 11:30 AM - 2 PM and 5:30 Pm - 10 PM daily. In Universal Studio CityWalk with free parking after 6 PM. One of Emeril Lagasse's many restaurants. Bold flavors are incorporated in the contemporary cuisine. Entrées such as Andouille Crusted Redfish and Atlantic Salmon with Creamy Polenta are just two of the New Orleans influenced items on the menu. Lunch entrées range from $18 to $24, while dinners range from $24 to $40 for the main dish. Dressy casual (no short sleeve shirts on gentlemen). Full bar, wine list and personal wines welcome with corkage fee. Reservations accepted. Jason Glus, chef, Gabriel Orozco, general manager and Emeril Lagasse, owner.

Emiliano's Café, 7 SE 1st Ave., Gainesville, FL. 64.0 mile drive from The Villages. 352-375-7381. L/D. Located one block south of University and just off Main St. in the heart of downtown. Open 11 AM to 10 PM daily and from 10 AM to 4 PM for Sunday Brunch, then 4 PM to 9 PM for Sunday Dinner. Been in business 25 years. Concentrating in Latin-Fusion Cuisine from South America, Mexico, Spain and Cuba. Signature entrées include Mojito Pollo (Citrus-Rum Glazed Chicken), Arepas de Maiz (Corn Cake Napoleon), Plaintain Crusted Fish, Guava Barbeque Pork Ribs and Jerk Pork Loin ranging $12 to $18 each. A variety of Paellas such as Seafood, Chorizo (Sausage) and Chicken styles range $18-20 per person. Classic dishes like Arroz con Pollo (Chicken and Yellow Rice), Puerco al Ajillo (Garlic Pork Loin), Ropa Vieja (Pulled Flank Steak) and Churrasco (Argentine Skirt Steak) all range from $14 to $19 each. Sandwiches like the Cuban or Portobello Mushroom and soups like Gazpacho (Chilled Tomato) or Frijoles Negros (Black Bean) are also available. The restaurant also specializes in dozens of hot or cold Tapas (Snacks) from Warm Brie to Flank Steak ranging $3-10 usually. Examples are Camarones al Ajillo (shrimp in garlic), Tortas de Cangrejo (crab cakes with spicy aioli), Alcachofas Rellenas (stuffed artichoke hearts) and Alcapurrias (suffed masa fritters). Surtidos (tapa samplers) make the selection decision easier, all priced accordingly. Wine from Portugal, Spain, Chile, Argentina, as well as California dot the Wine List. Home made Sangria ($4) and Mimosas ($3) are also available. A small selection of imported beers are offered too. Tropical juices like, Guava, Mango and Passion Fruit are non-alchoholic drink choices. Espresso, Cappuccino and Café con Leche finish the meal. Happy Hour 5 to 7 PM weekdays, 4 to 6:30 PM weekends. Full bar specializing in Mojitos and other cocktails. 18% gratuity added for parties of 6 or more. Live jazz occasionally. Valet parking available. Alida de Paz, chef and part owner with Jesse Brannen and Oscar and Wanda de Paz.

Review: (from Rich C. 6/09) Before our show at The Hipp, 6 of us enjoyed dinner at this long established little restaurant. She ordered the Swordfish filet ($17) which we think is coming off their seasonal menu. I ordered the Churrasco (beef skirt) with Plantains and Spanish Rice ($19). It was flavorful and tender. We also split a nice Caesar Salad ($8). She loved the swordfish and I loved my beef. The Sangrias were two for one, so 4 came to only $7.90. Good, but they were "light"; I'd order wine the next time. Our friends loved their swordfish too and the Garlic Pork Loin was a little tough but the taste made up for it, he said. Guava Ribs and a nice dinner salad were also enjoyed by the third couple. Total with 18% tip (added) was $65 for two. Very nice selection of Argentine/Spanish/Cuban cuisine here. An excellent alternative from the ordinary. Meals arrived in a timely manor. Miriam was our capable server and she could explain every entrée. We'd come back again because it's just two blocks from The Hipp.
Q=4 S=5 V=4 Total=13 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Enrico's Italian Ristorante, 439 US 41 S., Inverness, FL. 30.9 mile drive from The Villages. 352-341-4555. D. Open 4:30 PM - 10 PM Tuesday through Saturday only. Located on Main Street just south of SR 44. Offers traditional Italian cuisine, as well as home made pizzas. Veal, Seafood and Chicken dishes are noted here such as Saltimbocca. Pasta dishes also popular with the loyal clientele. Dinners are semi-a-la-carte. Relaxed atmosphere. Reservations accepted. Beer and wine available. Restaurant does NOT accept credit cards. Annette Tremante, owner.

Essex Seafood (Two) Restaurant, 1360 West SR 40, Pierson, FL. 43.2 mile drive from The Villages. 352-749-1557. D. Located about 1 mile past the St. John's River at Astor, FL. on SR 40. Call for business hours. New England style seafood. Noted for Whole Belly Clams and fish such as Grouper, Haddock and Catfish. Shrimp and Lobster are featured too. Mac 'n Cheese is popular with the kids. Beer and wine available. Credit cards are not accepted. The second US location for these owners. Mary Fay and Daniel Lane, owners.

Review: (from Bob M. 10/09) Immediately upon entering we were greeted by a voice, from somewhere, telling us to sit wherever we wanted. The restuarant is small (about 13 tables) and very homey. The menu was very heavy on seafood which is why we were there. I ordered the Seafood Plate, which consisted of Grilled Shrimp, Scallops and Haddock. Also included were Whole Belly Clams (a new experience for me). She ordered the Shrimp and Grouper combo. The meal was very good and the price wasn't out of line, in fact just the opposite considering the quantity. We also had a bowl of Clam Chowder. This midwesterner only knows Clam Chowder from Campbells. We found the chowder to be very tasty and full of clams and other good stuff. The thin consistency of the chowder was different from our experience and expectations however. Tiffany, our server did an excellent job attending to us and most of the other customers present. The price for the meal before t&t was $41. This is a "down home" type of restaurant and very casual. The owners of this place also own and run a similar resturant in Essex MA. As an added treat, we saw a bear on Hwy. 19 on the return trip.
Q=4 S=4 V=4 Total=12 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Fish Bones (Lake Mary), 7005 CR 46A, Lake Mary, FL. 54.8 mile drive from The Villages. 407-581-3474 or 407-581-2399. D. 5 PM - 10:30 PM daily. Located off Exit 101A, just west of Interstate 4, north of Heathrow, Fl. Attractive stone, marble, tile and warm wood interior, with a large aquarium for the focal point. As the name implies, fresh fish such as Wild Scottish Salmon, Red Snapper, Chilean Sea Bass, Swordfish, Peruvian Rainbow Trout and 2 pound Live Maine Lobster are available. Much shellfish and aged steaks also offered such as 12 oz. Filet Mignon, 18 oz. New York Strip Steak, Aged Rib Eye Steak, 16 oz. Prime Rib. Pork Chops, Lamb Chops, Chicken and Florida Duck also offered. Mirin-Wasabi Glazed Black Cod, Macadamia Crusted Mahi Mahi, Marinated Yellowfin Ahi Tuna, Cajun Blackened Grouper and Pacific Blue Marlin are the restaurant's specialties. Sushi is also on the menu. Finish off with Key Lime Pie, Baklava Amaretto Cheesecake, Red Velvet Cake or King Midas Carrot Cake. Entrées range from $14 to $35 each. Special coffees and teas offered. Reservations accepted. Full bar. Very large wine list. A "Talk of the Town" restaurant. Dan Drayer, executive chef. Ron Woodsby, owner.

Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar (Winter Park), 933 North Orlando Ave., Winter Park, FL. 60.8 mile drive from The Villages. 407-699-9463. D. Open daily at 5 PM and 4 PM on Sunday. North of Winter Park Village Shops. Upscale steak and chop house. All corn fed USDA Prime cuts. Lamb, Veal and Chicken also avalable. Crab & Shrimp Scampi, New Zealand Salmon, Tuna, Scallops and Australian Lobster Tails can also be found on the menu. Entrées generally ranging from $21 to $36 each. Dressy casual. Reservations suggested. Full bar. Large wine selection. Many wines available by the glass also. One of a nationwide chain owned by Outback. Al Romeo, operating partner here.

Fresco Neighborhood Italian, 3117 SW 34th St., Gainesville, FL. 60.5 mile drive from The Villages. 352-377-3484. L/D. Open 7 days per week from 11:30 AM to 10 PM (noon to 9 PM on Sunday). Small, casual, neighborhood café offers a wide choice of Italian food such as Lasagna, Cioppino and Manicotti which range $11-15. Chicken dishes include Parmesan, Marsala and Sicilian Chicken Pasta at $11-12. Specialties include Salmon Miguel, Calamari Costner and Shrimp Tiko offered at $12-14. Vegetarian entrées include Mushrooms & Scallions or Seasonal Veggies on Pasta ($9-11). Various Pizzas include Florentine, Asiago Chicken, Veggie or Meateater which run $9-11. Traditional pasta dishes including whole wheat pasta with a variety of sauces are available at $8-10, with toppings like Sausage, Meatballs, Chicken and Shrimp at $4 additional. Dinner size and side salads also offered. Wine and beer available. Gordy Braund, Jr. and Mike Davis, owners.

Froggers Grill & Bar (Apopka), 1601 North Rock Springs Rd., Apopka, FL. 42.6 mile drive from The Villages. 407-814-0650. L/D. Open 11 AM to 10 PM daily. Sports Bar and Seafood House rolled into one. Fajitas ($13), Seafood Combo Basket ($13) and Shrimp or Scallop Baskets ($11) are typical. Taco bar ranging from $7 to $9 are available. Soups, Salads and Authentic Buffalo Wings are offered too. Sandwiches, Subs and Burgers ($7-8) round out the menu. Daily specials. Full bar. "Hoppy Hour". Five locations in Florida. Another one in Mt. Dora (see page 2). These owned by by George Hakim. $7 and $15 coupons available at restaurant.com. Restrictions apply.

Frog's Landing, 470 Dock St., Cedar Key, FL. 86.4 mile drive from The Villages. 352-543-9243. L/D. Located in the middle of Dock St. on the water in the large, weathered, flat-topped building. Baked Stuffed Shrimp, Baked Stuffed Grouper as well as Cedar Key Clams, Oysters, Scallops and Crabs are favorites here. Noted for their Crab Cakes. Pasta dishes are offered for land lovers. Frog Burgers are also popular. 15% gratuity added for parties of 5 or more. South facing window tables overlook the Gulf. Not the best location for sunset viewing. Occasional entertainment. Full bar. Owner's artwork for sale here too. Linda Brandt, owner.

Front Porch Restaurant & Pie Shop, 12039 N. Florida Ave., Dunnellon, FL. 36.7 mile drive from The Villages. 352-489-4708. B/L/D. In business since 1986. Located right on US 41S, just 1 mile south of downtown Dunnellon over the bridge. The house numbers are confusing, so go over the river and railroad and you'll see it. Locals refer to it as "the hole in the wall". Specializes in Southern Down Home Cookin'. Popular dishes are the Southern Style Pot Roast and the Fried or Broiled Tilapia. More noted for their pies made by Gail. The Lemon Meringue sells the fastest, followed by the Coconut Cream, Chocolate Cream, Banana Cream, Pecan, Peanut Butter Chocolate, Cherry and Key Lime flavors, among others. Written up in Southern Living magazine, years back. No bar. Stan & Mary Scally, owners; Debbie or Kathy (daughters) manage the place.

Review: (from Mike M. 12/08) "Down home cooking", "A hole in the wall restaurant", "The place you drive by looking for "Bently's". I had the Pot Roast (twice Cracker Barrel's portion) that was delicious. My wife had the Greek Salad that was outstanding. Full meal with two pieces of homemade pie (we took home) for $30.
Q=5 S=4 V=5 Total=14 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Review: (from Rich C. 4/09) What a great find. There's inside the Front Porch, the front porch and the outside of the Front Porch. We ate in the middle one! Almost full on a Saturday night in April. With 2 other friends we had a fun and delightful experience. 3 specials were offered but the Chicken Fried Steak drew her attention and I had the Chicken Parm. with Spaghetti. Hers came with mixed salad, greens, cottage cheese and a pear salad. She raved about her "down home southern meal". Mine was really good too. All home made recipes. We couldn't wait to order our pie and we both had the Banana Cream Pie topped with a high meringue. Excellent. Our friends raved about their Burger and Fried Shrimp Dinner too. Carol was our waitress and although pleasant and helpful, was a bit forgetful about a few things. Two meals with two soft drinks and two desserts came to $31 with tax. Very reasonable prices. A bit of a drive but a fun place to eat.
Q=5 S=3 V=5 Total=13 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Garden Café, 14227 7th St., Dade City, FL. 50.1 mile drive from The Villages. 352-567-7277. L/D. Located on the main street in Dade City near Meridian Ave. Open 11 AM to 5:30 PM weekdays and 11 AM to 3 PM on Saturday and Sunday. Formerly called the Garden Delights Café. Once a 1940s gas station, made into a restaurant in 2003. Offers homemade soups, fresh salads, sandwiches and very special desserts. Specializes in Boar's Head deli products. Prices range $5 to $8 generally. Beer and wine offered. Melanie Yates, owner.

Review: (from Mike M. 2/09) My wife had a bowl of White Bean Chili and a "small" Garden's Signature Salad. I had a bowl of Chicken Tortellini Soup and the Caesar Salad. The soups were both outstanding, as well as the salads. The ingredients were very fresh, the portions very large, the presentation and service were excellent.
Q=5 S=5 V=5 Total=15 out of 15. Return=Yes.

(The) German Restaurant, 2616 US 19 N., Holiday, FL. 94.1 mile drive from The Villages. 727-937-7400. D. About 1 mile south of SR 54. Open from 4 PM Tuesday through Saturday and 1 to 9 PM on Sunday. Closed Mondays. Serving Bavarian and German dishes in a long established business. Soups include Leberknoedelsuppe (Liver Dumpling), Zwiebelsuppe (Onion) and Hummercreme Suppe (Lobster Bisque). Sausage entrées include Muenchner Weisswuerste (White Sausage), Schweinsbratwuerste (Pork Sausage) and Kalbsbratwuerste (Veal Sausage) at $12-15. In cutlets they offer Schweine Schnitzel (Viennese Style Pork Cutlet), Haehnchen Schnitzel (Chicken), Zigeuner Schnitzel (Spicy Gipsy Style) and Weiner Kalbs Schnitzel (Breaded Veal) ranging $15-22. Also available is Leberkaes (Beef & Pork Meat Loaf), traditional Sauerbraten (Marinated Beef), Stroganoff (Beef in Red Wine), Entenbrust (Duck Breast), Garnelen Spiesse (Shrimp Skewers) and even Forellen Filets 'Muellerin' (Rainbow Trout) ranging $14-21. Early Bird Specials (about $8) run 4-6 PM except 1-4 PM on Sunday. German and domestic wines and beers only. Occasional live music. Money savings coupons available on their website. 18% gratuity for groups of 8 or more. Reservations recommended. Uwe and Dagmar Kasper, owners.

Review: (from Bob E. 6/09) A genuine German restaurant with an extensive selection of soups, sausages, schnitzels and other traditional German foods. Many German draft or bottled beers. Early bird specials are $7.95, including soup or salad and German bread. I had Roast Pork with Potato Dumpling and Red Cabbage, along with Potato Soup and was quite satisfied with the preparation and quantity. I also had a glass of very drinkable grey burgundy and Apple Streussel Cake (flown in frozen from Germany) and coffee, all for $23 before tip. Next time I will have a beer, order from the regular menu, include some potato pancakes and skip the cake. The service was relaxed and attentive and the dining room was spic and span.
Q=4 S=4 V=5 Total=13 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Review: (from Bob E. 7/09) On my second visit I ordered German draft beer and Sauerbraten with Spätzle and Red Cabbage. The beer was great and the food was well prepared and very tasty. There are three things that were outstanding and will make me return: The beer, the freshly baked German bread and the homemade mustard-based salad dressing, not to mention the Potato Pancakes that I have not tried.
Q=4 S=4 V=5 Total=13 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Greek Flame Taverna, 1560 N. Semoran Blvd., Winter Park, FL. 54.4 mile drive from The Villages. 407-678-2388. L/D. Open 11 AM to 10 PM Monday through Saturday; Closed Sundays. Located on SR 436, in front of Office Depot just north of Howell Branch Road. Well known and award winning authentic Greek Taverna. Established about 1999. Traditional Greek Salad ($5-8) and Chicken Lemon Soup ($4-5) top the large menu. Their dishes include Dolmades (Ground Beef & Rice in Grape Leaves), Mousaka (Eggplant, Potatoes & Beef), Paidakia (Grilled Lamb Chops), Souvlaki (Lamb, Pork or Chicken Kebob), Kotopoulo (Roast Chicken Breast), Garides Saganaki (Broiled Shrimp with Feta Cheese), Barbouni (Red Mullet Fish) and Pastitsio (Macaroni & Ground Beef). These run $8-18 each. Traditional Lamb, Chicken or Veggie Gyros run $6-7. A variety of combination platters run $12-14 and include a Greek Salad. Special Meat or Seafood Platters for two people are $30. Also available is Grouper, Salmon, Snapper, Scallops, Calamari and even Flounder with Shrimp & Scallops. These run $12 to $19 each. Side salads or a cup of soup with dinners under $10 is $3 extra. Baklava and Galaktoboureko are usually offered for dessert. Patio seating available. A few dishes are flamed at your table. Greek beer, wine and coffee are available. Reservations accepted and advised for 6 or more. 2008 Foodie Reader's & Critic's Choice winner for "Best Greek Restaurant" in the Orlando area by The Orlando Sentinal. Kaliopi Chrissanthidis, owner.

GrillSmith, 2000 Piazza Ave., (SR 56 at Bruce B. Downs Blvd.), Wesley Chapel, FL. 71.1 mile drive from The Villages. 813-907-1900. L/D. Open 11:30 AM to 10 PM daily, except Sunday 11 AM to 9 PM. Located in the Wiregrass Shopping Center, at SR 56 and Bruce B. Downs Blvd., 2 miles east of I-75, Exit 275. This is now referred to as "New Tampa". Family oriented new chain self described as "New American Cuisine". However many of their dishes (and drinks) originated in other parts of the world. Part of their menu is billed as "Fitness Plates" with dishes such as Sundried-Tomato Chicken, Avacado Salmon, Grilled Shrimp Skewers and Catch of the Day with prices ranging $13-17 including a side dish. Steakburgers with Cheese, Portobello Caprino or Black & Bleu range $10-11 with a side dish. Tilapia, Grilled Chicken Breast or Signature Steak Sandwiches run $9-14 with a side dish. Pastas like Lillian's Braised Beef, Chicken Penne Alfredo, Bowtie Shrimp or signature Stoli Ravioli dishes run $14-16. Salads are $3 extra. Main dishes include Grilled Wild Mushroom Meatloaf, Chicken Portobello Stack, Oak Barrel or Mediterranean Salmon, Baby Back Ribs or signature Lemon Feta Chicken run $14-19 including two sides. Steak Specialties include Double Cut Pork Chops, Chimichurri Steak, 6 or 9 oz. Filet Mignon, 16 oz. Rib-Eye and 8 or 12 oz. Center-Cut Sirloin Steaks range $16-27 with two side dishes. Desserts, generally $5-8, include Chocolate Decadence Cake. Large salads include Bourbon Salmon Salad, Chicken Caesar or Seared Ahi Tuna for $11-15. Tortilla Pizzas at $8-10 and small plates such as Spinach & Artichoke Dip, Spicy Thai Shrimp, Smoked Salmon Bruchetta and signature Mandarin Lettuce Wraps run $5-17. Full bar and limited wine list. House wines are $5 per glass. Premium wines run up to $149 per bottle. Sparkling White or Remy Red Sangrias are offered at $6 per glass. Large selection of unusual imported beers, like the St. Bernardus ABT Beer (10.5% alcohol), Margaritas, Mojitos and Martinis are available. Sunday Brunch (11 AM - 3 PM) menu include combination meals. Special deals, such as "Two for $29" meals frequently offered. Takeout available too. 18% gratuity added for parties of 8 or more. Lawrence Strickland, chef/partner; Joe Brooks, managing partner here. Corporate owned, just 5 locations, based in Tampa, FL. CEO is Mark Johnson, originator of The Melting Pot (see page 2).

Habana Grill (Altamonte Springs), 937 West SR 436, Altamonte Springs, FL. 46.0 mile drive from The Villages. 407-682-6834. D. At the junction of SR 434 and SR 436. Open 4 PM to about 10 PM, Sunday 12 Noon to 9 PM. Don Pepe's original location. Still family operated. Authentic Cuban food such as Arroz, Garbanzo Soups, Cuban Rican Nachos, Paellas and Plantains. Fish, chicken, beef and pork fixed many different ways with a Cuban accent that is not spicy. Rice is a staple starch here. Cuban Flan is the usual dessert of local patrons. Entrées range from $11-20. Latin music and festive dancers on weekends. Bi-lingual menu. Full bar. Reservations accepted and suggested weekends. 2008 Foodie Critic's Choice winner for "Best Cuban Restaurant" in the Orlando area by The Orlando Sentinal. Ruben Perez, third generation family, owner.

Habana Grill (Winter Park), 2516 Aloma Ave., Winter Park, FL. 62.6 mile drive from The Villages. 407-678-7001. L/D. This location open 11 AM to about 10 PM daily. Don Pepe's second restaurant in central Florida. Family operated. Mojitos, Garlic, Rum and Yellow Rice denote the typical Cuban cuisine. Salmon Catalana, Paella De La Casa, Lechon (Pork) Clasico, Ropa Vieja, Churrasco, Bistec Empanizado, Pollo (Chicken) A La Pepe and Chuleta (Pork Chop) San Sebastian are just some of the authentic dishes offered at prices ranging $11-22 generally. Filete Siboney tenderloin specialty also on the menu. Lunch menu also available at this location. Rhythmic latin music and dancers on weekends. Reservations accepted and suggested weekends. Specialty coffees offered. Bi-lingual menu. Full bar. 2008 Foodie Critic's Choice winner for "Best Cuban Restaurant" in the Orlando area by The Orlando Sentinal. Same owner as above.

Heidi's Italian Restaurant, 901 US 41N, Inverness, FL. 31.4 mile drive from The Villages. 352-637-1355. L/D. Open 11 AM to 9 PM Monday through Friday; Saturday 4 PM to 10 PM and Sunday 12 noon to 9 PM. Located 8 blocks west of downtown where US 41 (N. Florida Ave.) turns off W. Main St. Easily missed in a small low building with one window. Not a likely name for an Italian restaurant but this establishment has been in business since 1990. Dinners are semi-a-la-carte which includes a salad and bread. Parmeasan Chicken, Eggplant and Veal top their menu. Baked Ziti and Lasagna are also popular. Manicotti and Ravioli dishes are available too. Large and small antipastos are also offered. Prices generally range from $6 to $11 for dinner. Specials added to the menu daily. Cheesecake is homemade. Beer and wine available. Scott Brown, owner.

Hellas Restaurant, 785 Dodecanese Blvd., Tarpon Springs, FL. 95.8 mile drive from The Villages. 727-943-2400. L/D. Located in the middle of the tourist section of the Sponge Docks. Opened in 1970, this authentic Greek restaurant and bakery serves well known meat and fish dishes from the Greek Isles. Specialties include Spanakopita, Tiropita, Mousaka, Pastisio and Dolmades. Other selections include Roast Leg of Lamb, Chicken, Pork or Lamb Shish Ke Bob, Lamb Chops as well as Lamb Shank. Seafood offerings include such fish as Grouper, Salmon and Flounder. Kalamari, Marithes, Octopus, Shrimp, Scallops and other fin and shellfish are also available. Dinners range from $7 to $19. Greek Salad, Gyros and Souvlaki (all $7 each) are well known specialties. A vast selection of Greek and Italian Pastries such as Baklava are available from the large bakery/cafe portion of the restaurant. They are also known for their numerous cheesecakes. Full bar. Nick Karterouliotis, owner.

Review: (from Rich C. 8/08) Wonderful tourist oriented restaurant that the locals populate also. Greek wine to start, nice crusty bread and some Greek music playing, we chose to eat on the front porch to watch the passers-by. There are actually air conditioners running at the ends of the porch which made the environment comfortable. She ordered the Combination Platter ($20) that consisted of Mousaka, Pastitsio, Dolmades and Gyro meat. I couldn't pass up the Roast Leg Of Lamb ($14). Both were accompanied by Rice Pilaf (with a hint of mint), Greek Style Potatoes and Seasoned Green Beans. All of it was delicious. My Lamb was tender, flavorful and a very large portion. Her meal too was more than she could eat, so we took home half of it. With 3 glasses of Greek wine ($5.50 ea) and one dessert from the fabulous bakery, the total was $60 including tax. One note of caution, the price of the meals we paid seemed to be about $1 higher than the paper menu (dated 4/08) we took home. And the prices on their website are lower yet. Watch that your bill matches the prices on the restaurant menu.
Q=5 S=4 V=4 Total=13 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Review: (from Ellen H. 11/08) It's worth the detour to sample their desserts in the huge showcase. Seems like everyone has to have one of their chocolate "something or others". I enjoyed the Caramel Cheesecake, and he had a Mocha "Pasta". Traditional Greek desserts like Baklava, Kataifi and Diples are also available. The sinful ones are really French origin. Most sins are $3-4. We can not be in the neighborhood without stopping here. Desserts are a meal in itself.
Q=5 S=4 V=4 Total=13 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Houston's, 215 South Orlando Ave., Winter Park, FL. 59.8 mile drive from The Villages. 407-740-4005. L/D. On US 17/92 between SR 426 and W. Morse Blvd. Very contemporary décor. Soup ($6) changes daily. Burgers and Sandwiches from $14-18 and Salads from $10-18 are at the beginning of the menu. Full entrées such as Rotisserie Chicken, Hawaiian Rib Eye, Barbecue Ribs, Double Cut Pork Chops, Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes and Roasted Prime Rib push the prices to $13-32 each. Many cocktail and wine selections. Full bar. One of 32 locations nationwide, in upscale suburbs, owned by the Hillstone Restaurant Group of Beverly Hills, CA. Jeff Palermo, general manager here.

Hue - A Restaurant, 629 E. Central Blvd., Orlando, FL. 55.6 mile drive from The Villages. 407-849-1800. L/D. Lunch served 11:30 AM; dinner from 4 PM daily. Popular Sunday Brunch. Located downtown Orlando (Thornton Park Central) this is best described as an "urban bistro". Winner of many dining awards since it opened in 2001. Caters to the local "yuppie crowd". Dinner entrées can range $20 to $40. Main dishes include Double Cut Pork Chop in Asian Sauce, Wood Grilled Salmon, Oven Roasted Chilean Sea Bass, Maple Leaf Duck Breast and Rack of Lamb. Famous for their Center Cut Filet Mignon. A wide variety of unique salads are offered also. A few pasta dishes like Asparagus Ravioli and Penne with Prosciutto can also be found. Large luncheon menu offeres such items as Pan Asian Crab Cakes, Wok Seared Ahi Tuna and Blackened Fish Tacos. Outdoor seating is popular for the "be-seen crowd". Full bar. Happy hour. Reservations accepted. 2008 Foodie Reader's Choice runner-up for "Best Brunch" in the Orlando area by The Orlando Sentinal. Owned by Urban Life Management.

Inlet Harbor Restaurant & Marina, 133 Inlet Harbor Road, Ponce Inlet, FL. 80.0 mile drive from The Villages. 386-767-3266. L/D. Open 11 AM - 9 PM daily. Located a few miles south of Daytona Beach, this waterfront establishment specializes in Caribbean Seafood. Lunches range from $6 to $9. For dinner Coconut Shrimp ($16), Fried Oysters ($16), Crispy Grouper ($20), Crab Cakes ($20) and Sea Scallops ($18) are some of the seafood meals offered. Chicken Marsala ($16), Jamaican Chicken ($16), Island Pork Chops ($16) and Charbroiled Ribeye Steak ($19) are some of the landside offerings. Fresh grilled Flounder, Salmon, Grouper, Tilapia and Mahi Mahi are usually availalbe. Other entrées to $26. Jumbo Fried Shrimp ($18) followed by Key Lime Pie is their signature meal. Full bar, lounge, waterfront deck and entertainment. 2007 runner-up for "Best Seafood Restaurant" in the Orlando area by WESH-2 News A-List. Richard Neland, owner.

Review: (from Colene M. 6/07) We had company and wanted to take them somewhere special on the beach. After visiting the Atlantic Ocean, we stopped by the Inlet Harbor Restaurant about 1 PM. We had Megan for a server and she was very good and attentive. Two of us ordered a mixed drink and one person ordered two beers (the teenager had a Virgin Strawberry Daiquiri). Megan found us two special drink holders/coin banks, the only ones they had. Three of us ordered the Grouper Sandwiches which were outstanding. The teenager ordered a Club Sandwich which she said was very good. The bill was a little high but that's because we wanted the $15 special drink holders/coin banks so if you deduct the $30 for those, the bill was $55 for four. A little high for lunch but we expected that being right on the ocean. I would go back again.
Q=5 S=4 V=2 Total=11 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Island Hotel & Restaurant, 373 2nd St., Cedar Key, FL. 86.2 mile drive from The Villages. 352-543-5111. L/D. Corner of B and 2nd Streets. Built in 1859 and withstanding numerous hurricanes, this stedfast building is on the National Register of Historic Places. B&B rooms available. Elegant dining room. The restaurant is famous for it's Crab Bisque ($8.50) and 1946 Hearts of Palm Salad ($8.50). Local Cedar Key Clams and Oysters are the focus of the menu. Various Grouper, Scallops and Shrimp dishes are offered too. Chicken, Lamb, Pork and Steaks top off the menu entrées. A few vegetable dishes ($16-18) are also available. Entrées range from $18 to $27. Full bar and fine wines are stocked. Screened porch dining available. Reservations accepted. Stanley & Andrew Bair, owners.

Island Room Restaurant at Cedar Cove, 192 2nd St., Cedar Key, FL. 86.3 mile drive from The Villages. 352-543-6520. D. Open on Sundays from 10 AM for brunch (until 1 PM) and other days from 5 PM for dinner. Located at the east end of 2nd Street in the Cedar Cove Resort. Inviting dining room. Noted for their Original Recipe Crab Bisque ($5-9). Crab Cakes, Grouper and Shrimp dishes are offered for seafood choices ($16-21). The popular Cedar Key Seafood Boil ($16) includes smoked sausage and local shellfish. Chicken, Steak au Poivre, 8 oz. Ribeye, New Zealand Rack of Lamb and Duck Confit are also available ($14 to $28). A number of Pasta dishes are on the menu too ($11-18). Reservations accepted. Full bar and wine list. Peter Stefani, chef and owner (also Dock Street Depot - see above).

Ivy House Restaurant, 106 NW Main St., Williston, FL. 50.0 mile drive from The Villages. 352-528-5410. L/D. Located just north of Noble Ave. on US 27/41 at NW 1st Ave. Open for dinner on Friday and Saturday only from 5-8 PM and for lunch on Monday through Saturday from 11 AM to 2 PM. Reservations accepted. Many small dining rooms decorated in very feminine Victorian décor. The rooms are also scattered with items from the gift shop upstairs. The ultimate in comfort food for the soul. Down-home Southern Style food including Fried Green Tomatoes, BBQ Shrimp 'n Grits, Southern Fried Shrimp or Scallops, Porterhouse Pork Chops, Baked Crispy Chicken, as well as Filet Mignon are offered. Entrées range from $11 for the Hamburger Steak to $20 for the Big South Sampler of Delmonico Steak, Fried Grouper and Fried Shrimp with a Baked Potato, Vegetables and Cornbread. Garden Salads included with entrées. Lunch dishes range from $8-14. Homemade desserts are popular at $3 each. Fried Cheesecake is a $4 specialty. No bar. Soft drinks only. Opened in 1993. Marjorie Hale & family, owners.

Review: (from Ellen H. 10/07) We were greeted by a group of ladies and were seated right at 5 PM in the front room (one of many in the old 1917 home). A disappointment was the fact that they don't serve wine, however the raspberry tea was delightful. Our salads were crispy and varied and it took a little while for our entrées to arrive. My Bar-B-Qued Shrimp 'N Grits with a huge Baked Potato was very nice. Real stick-to-your-ribs food! My better half went for the Delmonico Steak with Grouper and Shrimp Platter. The steak was thin, not the best he's had but very tasty. The small Fried Grouper and Fried Shrimp were very nice. The portions are large and they left us no room for dessert. Katherine, our server, was the typical southern-raised young lady that "y'all-ed" us with every sentence. Total, with the soft drinks, kept the bill low at $42 before tip. The restaurant was full by the time we left at 6:15 PM.
Q=4 S=4 V=4 Total=12 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Jack's Barbeque, 100 S. Hway 27, Minneola, FL. 30.5 mile drive from The Villages. 352-394-2673. L/D. At the corner of Pearl St. on US 27. Open 11 AM to 8 PM daily except Sunday. Started by Jack Underwood in 1953, it's sometimes also know as Jack Benny's Barbecue. It bills itself as "Real Alabama Style Barbecue". Traditional Ribs and Pulled Pork are the popular orders here. Noted for their Baked Beans too. Chicken, turkey, beef, pork sandwiches and steaks are also on the menu. Both mild and hot bar-b-que sauce is available. Big Gator fans, Charles & Eileen Costigan, current owners.

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J. C.'s Lobster Pot, 2888 West Highway 44., Deland, FL. 44.2 mile drive from The Villages. 386-734-7459. D. Open 4-9 PM daily, 12-9 PM on Sunday. This very casual "seafood shack" is located 3/4 mile east of the St. John's River and a few miles before Deland on SR 44. Specializes in fresh seafood. Florida Lobster and Coquille St. JC's are two of the signature items on this vast menu. Hemmingway Conch Fritters, Gater Tail and various Oysters along with Fried Green Tomatoes are offered as appetizers. Traditional entrées include Fried Clams ($11), Stuffed Shrimp ($13), Florida Catfish ($10-12), Frogs Legs ($16), Coquille ($16), Salmon ($16), Dolphin Fish (Mahi) ($16), Shrimp Scampi ($15) and Snow Crab Legs ($18) to name a few. But it's the lobsters that patrons crave. They are Bahama Tails, Maine Lobster and the house specialty, Florida Lobster (all market price). Chicken and Steaks ($13-20) are available for the land lovers. New England Seafood Chowder and Hushpuppies are also favorites of the locals. Senior specials available, as are kid's items. Good early Bird selections from 4-6 PM. Be prepared for a wait on weekends or arrive early. Beer and wine served by the glass or carafe. Megan Weir and D. J. Campbell partners since 1991.

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Review: (from Ellen H. 12/07) Not an easy drive for dinner but DeLand is a nice town to visit with many restaurants. With a name like Lobster Pot, we just had to order their namesake. We started with a 1/2 carafe of Lambrusco for just $8.50 . Then we ordered two appetizers: 6 Oysters Rockefeller ($7.95) and a Dozen Steamed Little Necks ($5.95), where we actually counted a baker's dozen plus one. The salads were ordinary. Clam Chowder was very nice. I ordered their specialty, "Coquille Saint J.C." ($10.95 on the Early Bird) with steamed vegetables and he had the whole Live Maine Lobster ($19.95) with baked potato. I have to say their "Coquille St. Jacques" was great; lots of Bay Scallops and Gruyere Cheese. His red friend with bulging eyes was about 1 pound and the tail and claws were pretty good. The hushpuppies were wonderful. Service by Angela was OK. We were too full to have their special desserts. All in all, a nice dinner in an old place. Total before tax and tip was just $53. By 6 PM on a Thursday, the restaurant was full.
Q=4 S=3 V=4 Total=11 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Joe's Crab Shack (Orlando North), 4601 S. Semoran Blvd., Orlando, FL. 61.5 mile drive from The Villages. 407-658-9299. L/D. Located on CR 436 between the 408 and 528 expressways. Open daily from 11 AM. It's a big shack near the beach, or so it seems. Also known as Eat At Joe's. Lots of crustacean is offered here, especially Crabs and Shrimp. The Crab Cakes, Crab Dip, Crab Salad, Crab Nachos, Crab Boil and Crab In A Bucket are certain to make you a little more (or less) crabby! The menu also contains Popcorn Shrimp, Coconut Shrimp, Fried Shrimp, Shrimp Salad and Shrimp Cocktail to make you feel more "shellfish" with others. Clam Chowder is a favorite, except with the clams. A completely fun atmosphere abounds. Full bar is busy making pink, green or blue cocktails for the adventuresome. Frequented by locals and tourists alike, this chain was once owned by Carlton Restaurants (T.G.I.Fridays) but is now independently owned out of Houston, TX. Other locations nearby include Orlando Disney, Celebration and Sanford (see below).

Joe's Crab Shack (Sanford), 4659 W 1st St., Sanford, FL. 46.3 mile drive from The Villages. 407-323-0934. L/D. Located on SR 46 just west of downtown. Open daily from 11 AM. Famous for their fun beach atmosphere and yes, crabs by the ton. Joe's Steampot is a mix of Dungeness Crab, Snow Crab, Boiled Shrimp, Smoked Sausage and New (not old) Potatoes. King Crab is usually also available either Steamed, Chesapeake Style, Spicy Boil, BBQ or Garlic Herb flavored. No Queen Crabs are cooked here! Besides shellfish, the "joint" also has Snapper, Tilapia, Mahi and Salmon. Shrimp, a dozen different ways, is also on the vast menu. Po'Boys, Crab Cakes and Burgers are also featured. Ice cold beer and a full bar offering lots of exciting tropical concoctions are available. Started in Houston, TX, there's now 120 locations in 28 states owned by JCS Holdings. There are 3 other locations in the Orlando area (see above).

Review: (from Howard H. 2/09) We were looking for a place to have lunch while on a trip to Sanford and drove past the Joe's Crab Shack. Having eaten at the one in Virginia, we decided to stop. We opted to eat on the deck as it was a beautiful day. Other than the fact that it was a smoking area, we thoroughly enjoyed our lunch. We both had the Fish and Chips ($11) and each had a draft beer. The Fish and Chips were fresh and piping hot. Ample portions too. Check with tax was $33.
Q=5 S=4 V=4 Total=13 out of 15. Return=Yes.

K Restaurant Wine Bar, 2401 Edgewater Dr., Orlando, FL. 57.9 mile drive from The Villages. 407-872-2332. L/D. Open for lunch Monday through Friday 11:30 AM to 2 PM.Open again for dinner at 6 PM. Closed Sundays. Located north of the city on SR 424, 2 blocks north of W. Princeton St. (SR 438) about half way between Orange Blossom Trail (US 441) and I-4 (Exit 85). This establishment features a Prix Fixe meal at $23 per person. Wine pairing for each course is $19 per person additional. Special Monday Night Prix Fixe is $28. Menu changes weekly. Selections for the $23 meal may include your choice of Grilled Asparagus or a Greek Salad to start, Sautéed Florida Mahi or Grilled Bar-B-Qued Chicken Breast for the entrée, followed by a choice of Fudge Brownie or Sorbet for dessert. The $28 meal may include a choice of Grilled Waygu or Pistachio Crusted Grouper instead. Or you may order off the a-la-carte menu. Appetizers such as Fried Chicken Livers, Shrimp 'n Grits, Sautéed Crab Cake, Beef Carpaccio or Fried Green Tomato range $6-12 each. Salads offered include Caesar, Spinach, Tomato, Field Greens, Iceberg Wedge or "K Stack Salad" at $6-8 each. A-la-carte main dishes may include Georgia Brook Trout, Duck Breast, Porcini Dusted Filet Mignon ranging $18-33 each. A large selection of cheese is also available at $5-6. Lunch selections include sandwiches, salads, pasta or meatloaf all about $8-12. A large selection of wine by the glass, split or bottle is available. Ports, sherries and aperitifs also on the list. Beer is also offered. Wine and Cheese Night on Friday. 2008 Foodie Critic's Choice winner for "Best Overall Restaurant" in the Orlando area by The Orlando Sentinal. Reservations recommended. Dan Francoforte, general manager; Kevin Fonzo, executive chef and owner.

Kazbor's Grille (Clermont), 1640 E. SR 50, Clermont, FL. 34.1 mile drive from The Villages. 352-242-9151. L/D. Mixing food and fun, this relatively new Florida eating chain specializes in Fajitas, Quesadillas, Chimichangas for the Mexican taste ($10-13); Seafood Pasta, Chicken Alfredo and Chicken Parmesan for the Italian palate ($10-11) and Salmon, Tilapia, Shrimp, Grouper, Flounder, Rib Eye, NY Strip Steak and Filet Mignon ($10-17) for the upscale flavor. Many Wraps, Soups, Salads and Sandwiches ($7-10) are also available. Noted for their large meaty Chicken Wings ($10-16). Popular with families. Full bar. Small franchise chain of nine locations, started in 1997, headquartered in Brandon, FL., headed by Talal Kazbour of Hungry Howie's fame. Luigi Roccasalvo, franchisee.

Le Coq Au Vin, 4800 S. Orange Ave., Orlando, FL. 57.9 mile drive from The Villages. 407-851-6980. L/D. Closed Mondays. Country French cuisine. Locally popular for a long time. Candle lit tables in a country cottage. Soufflé Au Fromage ($6.50), Salade Laitue et Noix Au Roquefort ($4.50), Rack of Lamb ($29), Duck a l'Orange ($19.50) and of course Coq Au Vin ($17.50) are offered. Other entrées range from $16 to $29. Half portions available for some meals. Order dessert soufflés ($5.50), the house specialty, at the start of the meal due to the preparation time. Casual to dressy casual. Low key but professional service. Reservations accepted. Beer and wine. Wide wine list. 2008 winner for "Best French Restaurant" in the Orlando area by WESH-2 News A-List. 2008 Foodie Reader's Choice winner for "Best French Restaurant" in the Orlando area by The Orlando Sentinal. Chef Louis Perrotte, owner.

Review: (from Rich C. 11/06) We found this restaurant 7 years ago. They are now in business over 25 years. It was nice then and still is today. This is Country French, hardier home-cooked food. The chef is from Brittany, so don't expect light Nouveau Cuisine. We always order the Grand Marnier Soufflé dessert as soon as we sit down. It's worth twice the price but takes an hour to prepare. Out of six visits we only had one tough Veal dish. We just don't order the Veal anymore. Thus our quality rating is down a notch. Nice wines and the service is impeccable, unrushed and friendly. Cute intimate homey surroundings, perfect for couples on a date. Messieur Perrotte visits the dining room occasionally in his apron. Parlez-vous français? During our last visit, 10 international chefs were having dinner there after their workshops at the convention center. What does that tell you? La cuisine est très authentique.
Q=4 S=5 V=5 Total=14 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Leonardo's 706, 706 West University Ave., Gainesville, FL. 64.2 mile drive from The Villages. 352-378-2001. D. Located a few miles east of US 441 on SR 26, a few blocks west of Main St. Open for dinner Monday through Saturday at 5 PM and for Sunday Brunch ($15) 10:30 AM to 4 PM only. Offers Mediterranean cuisine with some Italian, French and Spanish influences. Items such items as Chicken Mona Lisa, Blackened Grouper, King Salmon, Tuna Ponzu, Pacific Rim Scallops and Filet Mignon ranging from $17-24. Pasta Seafood, Pasta Madagascar, Pasta Botticelli, Pasta Salmon and Chicken Gorgonzola are also available at about $14-18. Their "706" Pizzas run $10 to $16. Seven Layer Black Mountain Cake and Peanut Butter Pie are specialties. 18% gratuity added for parties of six or more. Reservations accepted. Full bar. Large wine list. $15 corkage fee for carry-in wine. Occasional live music. Steve & Sandy Solomon, owners.

Review: (from Rich C. 2/09) On a Thursday evening, the restaurant was not crowded at 6 PM. Our reserved table was waiting for us. Josh introduced himself and took our orders for drinks. When ordering the house wine, he recommended a step up to a Daniel Gehrs California Chardonnay ($8). She ordered a Floridian Martini ($8). He also told us about the specials that day. She ordered the King Salmon Special ($24) with one of the two sauces. I had to try their Crab Bisque Soup and ordered the Grouper Français Over Angel Hair Pasta ($21). I seldom order angel hair in restaurants because it sometimes gets very clumpy. The orders arrived promptly. The soup was good with some sherry and a hill of crab meat in the center. Not very thick, but tasty enough. She thoroughly enjoyed her King Salmon. It had some exceptional flavor. My Grouper had a sweet sauce on it and although good was not that flavorful compared to the other meals in our party. Our friends raved over the Shrimp Puttanesca (with very big shrimp) and the Sausage, Peppers and Onions dish (lots of chopped tomatoes). Some of us shared a very nice Kahlúa Coffee Toffee Pie. That was great. This is NOT the normal Italian cuisine. The chef here puts together many imaginative meals and the menu is an excursion in unusual ingredients and Mediterranean flavors. Our service was outstanding. Josh was prompt, polite, knowledgeable about each dish and apologized when something on the menu was not available that night. The atmosphere is not really upscale. Church pews at parquet-topped wood tables was not the most comfortable to sit at. Many patrons chose to sit outside. All in all, a very nice meal even though there was no happy hour and the offerings, a bit pricey. Our total, with 2 wines, 1 martini, 1 soup, 2 entrées, tax and 18% gratuity was $94 ($75 before t&t). Josh was nice enough to point out the gratuity was already added. We were out by 7:30 PM in time for our theater engagement at The Hipp.
Q=4 S=5 V=4 Total=13 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Les Chefs de France (Epcot), 1839 Avenue of the Stars, Lake Buena Vista, FL. 64.1 mile drive from The Villages. 407-WDW-DINE or 407-939-3463. L/D. (pronounced: lay-chef-deh-frahns) Located in the France Pavilion in Epcot-Walt Disney World. Open daily 12 noon to 3 PM for lunch and 5 to 9 PM for dinner. This restaurant is patterned after a Parisian Brasserie. Crisp white linens and elegant surroundings make this a favorite for food connoisseurs. Unhurried service. All a-la-carte offerings. Start out with Assiette de Fromages (Cheese Plate Assortment), Tartare de Saumon (Raw Smoked Salmon), Tarte à la Tomate et Fromage de Chèvre (Tomato and Goat Cheese Tart), Cassolette d'Escargots de Bourgogne (Baked Burgundy Style Snails), Bisque de Homard (Lobster Bisque), Salade de Chèvre Chaud (Baked Goat Cheese Salad) or Soupe à l'Oignon Gratinée (French Onion Soup with Cheese) ranging from $6 to $10 each. Dinner main dishes may include Canard au Miel (Roasted Duck with Honey), Demi Poulet Fermier (Half Free Range Chicken), Filet de Bœuf Grillé (Grilled Beef Tenderloin), Gratin de Macaroni (Baked Macaroni & Cheese), Jarret d'Agneau (Braised Lamb), Noix de Saint Jacques (Sautéed Scallops), Thon Poêlé (Seared Tuna) and Plat de Côte de Bœuf (Braised Beef Ribs) all ranging $18 to $29 each. For dessert they have Crème Brûlée (Sugared Egg Custard), Crêpe a la Pomme et Cannelle (Pancake with Cinnamon Apples) and Profiteroles au Chocolat (Puff Pastry with Ice Cream and Chocolate Syrup) all about $7 each. Lunch items run $12 to $20. Selections change seasonally. Prix Fixe dinners also available with limited choices. Disney Dining Experience (now called Tables in Wonderland) for 20% discount, eligible except holidays. Full bar and extensive wine list, many from France like Les Abeilles Côtes du Rhône at $36 or Hubert Brochard Sancerre at $60 per bottle. Even Orangina, the French orange soft drink, is on the menu. Children's menu available, of course. Admission to WDW required by ticket or yearly pass. Reservations accepted and mostly required except in the off-season and now taken up to 180 days in advance. Cancelation policy applies. Jerome Bocuse, owner.

Review: (from Daniel G. 10/09) My wife and I celebrated my birthday and our anniversary by having dinner inside Epcot. We chose Les Chefs de France, a french style restaurant. We had the prixe fixe dinner at $37.50 pp. My wife had the French Onion Soup, Half of an all-natural Roasted Chicken, Rissole Potatoes and Grilled Tomato. Then for dessert she had Crème Brûlée. I had the Lobster Bisque, Beef Short Ribs Braised in Cabernet with Pasta, Pearl Onions and Mushrooms. Then for dessert I had Puff Choux with Vanilla Ice Cream and Chocolate Sauce. We both had a glass of wine and coffee. The cost came to $100 without the tip. Service was impecable and the food is to die for. I even had the waiters come to our table and sing Happy Birthday in French. For an extraordinary evening of real gourmet food, this restaurant must be tried.
Q=5 S=5 V=5 Total=15 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Little Italy of Inverness Deli and Bakery, 124 N. Apopka Ave., Inverness, FL. 30.8 mile drive from The Villages. 352-726-5044. D. One block north of the courthouse (Courthouse Square), on the right, inside the drab deli and also known as just Little Italy. Open for one seating at 7:00 PM on Friday & Saturday only. Reservations and credit card deposit required. Plan 3 to 6 weeks in advance; sometimes less for parties of just 2 but more enjoyable with a group. Seats only 40 persons. Menu is not defined and changes every seating. The family prepares the vast Italian multi-course meal during the day depending on market availability and the chef's whim. Prix fixe pricing that's $49 per person. A unique dining experience, much like a family reunion, with congenial hosts singing and cavorting. Casual dress. Limited beer and wine only. Rosario Cali, kitchen maestro. Donna & Alfredo Cali, owners and merrimakers.

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Review: (from Colene M. 11/06) EXCELLENT! FABULOUS! Five hours of wonderful food and great entertainment! The price was somewhat high ($103 before tip for two) but well worth it! It was a six-course meal with wine and the two owners sang and entertained us. It was one of the best restaurants I have been to in Florida.
Q=5 S=5 V=3 Total=13 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Review: (from Rich C. 11/06) A real Italian Trattoria! All courses were petite portioned until the 2 pound Osso Bucco main dish arrived, which I have always regarded as food for peasants rather than food for princes. It was the best I've ever had, however. Excellent Caprese Salad, Shrimp Scampi, Eggplant Dish and home made Meat Tortellini. A fun time was led by an Italian version of Howie Mandel! About the only drawback was the 5 hour long ordeal, so I had to rate the service down a notch. Go with a group, not alone, and if the ladies wear low cut dresses, they'll get plenty of attention from Alfredo! $104 for two with wine. Excellent and unique experience overall.
Q=5 S=4 V=5 Total=14 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Review: (from Louise H. 5/07) Little Italy was a unique dining experience in a small deli ! Beginning at 6:30 p.m. the experience involved 4-1/2 hours, included seven courses of wonderfully prepared Italian dishes and constant entertainment by the owners, Alfredo and Rosario. The evening began with complimentary wine, bread and oil, followed by soup, salad, an eggplant dish, tortellini and sorbet. Then a veal chop entrée with vegetables and concluded with dessert and coffee. Cost was $55/person.
Q=5 S=5 V=5 Total=15 out of 15. Return=Yes.

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Lombardo's Restaurant, 5388 S. US Hwy. 41, Dunnellon, FL. 41.7 mile drive from The Villages. 352-489-9664. L/D. Open 11 AM to 9 PM daily except Sunday and Monday. Located 1.5 miles north of Dunnellon at the corner of SW 54th St. on US 41. In business over 25 years. Popular with the locals. Their specialties include Eggplant, Chicken and Veal Parmigiana ($10-14 each), Chicken and Veal Marsala ($12-14 each), Chicken Cacciatore and Italian Sausage with Green Peppers ($10-11 each). Soup, salad, pasta side and breadsticks accompany those meals. Also available are pasta dinners like Spaghetti, Ziti, Linguine, Fettuccine and Ravioli with made kinds of sauce ($8-14 each). Lasagna and Manicotti ($9-10) are also offered. Shrimp Scampi, Fried Shrimp and Shrimp Diavola ($14) are also available. They too come with soup, salad, pasta and breadsticks. Antipasto, Shrimp Cocktal and Fried Mushrooms ($5-9) are among the appetizers offered. Pizzas in 3 sizes ($5-9), Hoagies ($5-6) and other sandwiches are also on the menu. Spumoni and homemade Cheesecake are offered for dessert. Beer and wine only. The Neal family, owners.

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Lunch On Limoges, 14139 7th St., Dade City, FL. 50.1 mile drive from The Villages. 352-567-5685. L. Located in the small town of Dade City on US 301 inside the historic department store amid a gift shop atmosphere. Open 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM only. Closed, Sundays, holidays and in the summer, Mondays also. Very popular with the ladies for their décor, eclectic fashion shopping and fine china. Pecan Chicken, Crab Cakes, Poached Salmon, Athens Grouper and Tuscan Shrimp are typical of the items on the lunch menu that range from $10 to $14 each. Entrées change seasonally. Noted for their fruit muffins. Desserts are also popular. Reservations accepted. Dressy casual attire with beer and wine only. Skip Mize (chef) and Phil Williams (store keeper), owners.

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Machon - At The Orlando Culinary Academy, 8511 Commodity Circle, Orlando, FL. 56.5 mile drive from The Villages. 407-313-8792. L/D. Off South John Young Parkway between Route 482 (Sand Lake Road) and the 528 (Bee Line). Open Tuesday through Friday, 11 AM to 1 PM for lunch and Wednesday through Friday, 6 to 7:45 PM only for dinner. Reservations are required. Students of this well known Cordon Bleu Cooking School prepare and serve meals to the public. Clean, sparse and sterile dining room where the staff is eager to please. It combines innovation with growing experience and improving talent. Continental dishes with predominately French preparations. Here are some possible menu selections: Foie Gras Terrine ($10), Maine Lobster Salad ($12), Duck Consommé Soup ($5), Fuji Apple and Celeriac Bisque Soup ($5), Bouillabaisse Stew ($19), Tenderloin Pork Chop ($16), Chocolate & Hazelnut Napoleon ($4) and Tarte Tatin ($5). Very moderate prices for the presentation, preparation and freshness. Linen service and fine china are used. Beer and wine served. Billed as a "Grade A" experience. Credit cards accepted. Corporate owned.

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Main Street Grill, 100 E. New York Ave., Deland, FL. 46.8 mile drive from The Villages. 386-740-9535. L/D. Open daily form about 11 AM to 10 PM. Located in the basement of the old J. C. Penney building at US 17/92 & SR 44 in the center of town. Accessible from the stairway off the parking lot or the elevator in the building. Outdoor seating also available. Popular with locals for Ribeye, New York Strip and Sirloin Steaks, as well as "Sterling Silver" Prime Rib on weekends. Chicken Almond Stir Fry, as well as Chicken Parmesan and Chicken Marsala are offered also. Various Pasta and Seafood dishes such as Mainstreet Salmon, Blackened Mahi Mahi, Crabcakes, Black Tiger Shrimp, Shrimp Scampi and a Captain's Platter round out the menu. A number of soups are offered daily. Fried Ice Cream is featured for dessert. Full bar and a short wine list available. Sunday Brunch Buffet is $10.50 per person. Regular dinner entrées range from $10-20. Lunch portions and sandwiches are $5-11. Signature Cinnamon Rolls served with each entrée. Reservations accepted. Phillip & Chantell Martin, owners.

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Review: (from Rich C. 11/07) On the way back from Daytona Beach on a Saturday night at 6:30 PM we were surprised to get a table immediately without a reservation at this crowded eatery. She had a Caesar Salad before our meal and I opted for a Hot Spinach Salad. Hers was good and mine was great - nice hot bacon dressing over tender green leaves - can't be beat. She ordered the Bacon Wrapped Scallops ($13), while I took advantage of the weekend 10 oz. Prime Rib ($15). I also added a half dozen Grilled Shrimp for only $4 and there were actually 10 on the plate making it a real bargain. Scallops were good (more than she could eat) and my Prime Rib was excellent with little fat. The Cinnamon Rolls reminded us of Hops Restaurants. With 2 house wines, salads, fresh vegetables and entrées the total was $44.50 before tax & tip. It's a very nice find in this cute town.
Q=4 S=4 V=5 Total=13 out of 15. Return=Yes.

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Mama's Greek Cuisine, 735 Dodecanese Blvd., Tarpon Springs, FL. 95.7 mile drive from The Villages. 727-944-4408. L/D. Open 11 am to 10 pm daily. Located in the rear of the Sponge Exchange on Dodecanese Blvd. but it actually faces Athens Street. "Where Locals Meet To Eat" is what they advertise. Although it caters to tourists, this establishment often welcomes many residents too. Souvlaki (Marinated Pork), Keftedes (Meatballs), Domades (Ground Beef in Grape Leaves), Mousaka (Ground Beef and Eggplant), Pastitso (Greek Lasagna) and Spanokpita (Spinach Pie) are just some of the authentic Greek dishes served here. Seafood is also popular serving Shrimp, Octopus, Squid, Grouper and Codfish too. Lamb items such as Shish Kabob and Rack of Lamb can also be ordered. Makaronda Pasta is also offered. Entrées range from $6 to $17 and up to $25 for the Rack of Lamb, Lithrini and other specials of the day. Coupon available on their website. Entertainment on weekends. In business since 1978. Full bar including Greek wines. Angelis & Georgia Memisakis, owners.

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Review: (from Ellen H 6/08) We've eaten here a few times and always enjoyed their food. I like the Mousaka and he enjoys the Keftedes and Domades. We also like the Greek wines offered like Mavrodaphne. Last visit we caught a Greek mandolin player which we thoroughly enjoyed during our meal. $50 for two people gets you a nice meal even though the service can be a little abrupt at times, depending on your server.
Q=5 S=3 V=5 Total=13 out of 15. Return=Yes.

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Manuel's On The 28th, 390 N. Orange Ave., Suite 2800, Orlando, FL. 55.6 mile drive from The Villages. 407-246-6580. D. Open 6 PM - 10 PM Tuesday through Saturday only. On the 28th floor of the Bank of America Building. Unparalleled views of the city from the candlelit dining room. International creations. Typical choices include Smoked Confit of Duck, Organic Field Greens Salad, Phyllo Wrapped Lamb Loin and a Chocolate Torte. A-la-carte entrées range from $28 to $36 each. Reservations suggested. Jackets preferred. Pay parking. Full bar. Vintage and non-vintage wine list plus personal wines welcome with corkage fee. 2008 Foodie Reader's Choice winner for "Best Romantic Restaurant" in the Orlando area by The Orlando Sentinal. Manuel Garcia III, executive chef.

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Mark's Prime Steakhouse (Gainesville), 201 SE 2nd Ave., Gainesville, FL. 64.1 mile drive from The Villages. 352-336-0077. D. Open daily except Sundays from 5 PM. Reservations accepted and recommended on weekends. Also known as "Mark's U. S. Prime".Located in the historic downtown area in Union Street Station. "Steaks with passion" is their motto. This restaurant offers the finest prime beef and freshest seafood. Filet, NY Strip, Delmonico, Ribeye, Sirloin, Veal and Lamb Chops as well as Surf 'n Turf are typical meat offerings. Some seafood specialties include Crab Bisque, Grouper Santa Fe, Pistachio Encrusted Tuna, Crab Cakes and Chilean Sea Bass. Crème Brûlée and Chocolate Paradise are two of their desserts. This establishment also features a wood fired grill for cooking. All offerings are priced a-la-carte with most entrées between $27 to $35 each. Extensive fine wine list and full bar. Piano bar lounge. Willaim Scheel, Louis Saig and George McCoy, new proprietors. A new Mark's Prime is now open in downtown Ocala (see page 2).

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Review: (from Rich C. 2/08) Wow! I have not had beef like this since I visited Montana 30 years ago. I had their 12 oz. Filet Mignon Medium Rare ($33). It was a large thick chunk of beef. She ordered the Bleu Cheese Encrusted 10 oz. Sirloin ($27). Both were cooked perfectly and my filet was extremely tender with wonderful wood cooked flavor. Her Sirloin had lots of good taste too. All their beef is USDA Prime cuts that you won't even find at some of the finest restaurants. They arrive on very hot plates that keeps the meat warm throughout the meal. A great idea. I started with the Crab Bisque ($8) and she had a Chopped Salad ($8). They were nice starters. We also shared an order of Grilled Asparagus ($7). Sean was an excellent server, checked back often and explained everything on the menu. A nice selection of pricey wines tempted us to order 3 glasses ($7-9). What the heck, might as well get the Chocolate Paradise dessert ($7) too. Not the place you dine at every week, although their selection is very wide, the bill adds up fast. $114 plus t&t for two is dear, but so was the lady with me!
Q=5 S=5 V=3 Total=13 out of 15. Return=Yes.

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The Melting Pot (Gainesville), 418 E University Ave., Gainesville, FL. 64.3 mile drive from The Villages. 352-372-5623. D. Opens at 5:30 PM daily. Reservations accepted and suggested on weekends. A Fondue restaurant. "Dip into something different!" Very relaxing but involved meal production. Typically, a two hour dining experience. A wide variety of full course or a-la-carte dinners ranging in price from $15 to $40 pp. You cook your own meal in fondue pots on your table. Full bar with a nice wine list. One of a nationwide chain of about 100 locations. This one run by Justin Santoro. There's another Melting Pot in Ocala (see page 2).

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McCormick & Schmick's Seafood Restaurant (Orlando), 4200 Conroy Rd., Orlando, FL. 53.2 mile drive from The Villages. 407-226-6515, 1-800-344-6861. L/D. At the Mall at Millenia adjacent to The Cheescake Factory. Dining hours 11 AM to 10 PM, daily. Stunning interior under a stained glass ceiling. This is a modern day "fish monger". The menu is printed daily, so the offerings may include fresh King Salmon, Key West Snapper, Ecuadorian Tilapia, Yellow Fin Tuna, Thresher Shark, Washington Oysters, North Carolina Blue Crabs, Black Grouper, Idaho Rainbow Trout, North Carolina Catfish, Hilo Mahi Mahi, New Bedford Bay Scallops, Cape May Monkfish, Oregon Bay Shrimp, Sitka Dungeness Crab or Connecticut Blue Point Oysters. Seafood Specialties are Cedar Planked, Cashew Encrusted, Crab Stuffed or Parmesan Crusted, to name a few. Typical entrées range $18 and up. Others like Broiled Seafood Platter or Fish & Chips start at just $11. Maryland Crabcakes, Stuffed Shrimp ($20) or even 1/2 Pound Lobsters (Market Price) are usually available every day. Full bar with specialty drinks and wine list. Started in the 1970s, the chain now has about 85 restaurants, 3 of them in Florida.

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Mildred's Big City Food, 3445 W. University Ave., Gainesville, FL. 66.3 mile drive from The Villages. 352-371-1711. L/D. At the west end of the Westgate Regency Shopping Plaza. Open daily from 11 AM to 3:30 PM for lunch and again 5 to 10 PM for dinner. Except Sundays open noon to 7 PM for "supper". Concentrates on local produce and fresh ingredients. Specialties include Pumpkin Bisque Soup ($6), Blue Crab Cakes Appetizer ($10), Braised Oxtail ($15) and Pan-Seared Duck Breast ($17) are well known. Other items on the menu include Grilled Pork Chop, Swordfish or Black Angus NY Strip Steak ranging $16-24. Also Pan-Seared Cobia, Gulf Grouper or Red Snapper run $19-23. Oven Roasted Chicken Breast, Ginger-Cured Salmon and Sauteed Monkfish range $15-20. Interesting appetizers like Crispy Calamari, PEI Mussel Fritter, and Mildred's Duck Terrine all run $7 each. Sunday's Supper include Quiche, Pecan Encrusted Chicken, Seared Tuna or Paprika-Rubbed Pork Chop ranging $7-16 plus lighter items like sandwiches and burgers about $7-10. Dinner salads run $6-8 each. Desserts are a big thing here with a wide selection. Dressy casual. Full bar with noted wine list approved by Wine Spectator Magazine. Reservations suggested. Tara and chef, Robert (Bert) Gill, owners. Also owns New Deal Café and Ti Amo!, see below.

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Mimi's Café (Orlando), 4175 Millenia Blvd., Orlando, FL. 53.1 mile drive from The Villages. 407-370-0333 B/L/D. On the Millenia Mall property next to T.G.I. Friday's. Open daily from 7 AM to 11 PM. Offerings such as Chicken Pot Pie, Roasted Turkey, Country Fried Steak, Meatloaf, Pot Roast and Beef Liver can be found on the menu. Pasta Jambalaya, Cajun Blackened Salmon, Spice Rubbed Baby Back Ribs and Crab Cakes add a Louisiana flair. Pork Chops, Sirloin and Flat Iron Steaks also featured. Bread Pudding is a favorite. Large selection of sandwiches for lunch plus a wide variety of breakfast food too. Most entrées range from $11-14, steaks $13-16, sandwiches $7-9, breakfast $5-9. Free refills on non-alcoholic beverages. Wine & beer available. One of a chain of more than 100 locations by SWH Corp. of Tustin, CA. (a wholly owned subsidiary of Bob Evans Farms, Inc.) Mike Riggs, manager. Another Mimi's is now open in Ocala (see page 2).

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Review: (from Rich C. 9/07) While shopping for a new computer in Orlando, I made a stop for lunch at a chain I'd never tried before. Mimi's is the epitome of a "casual dining restaurant". It was crowded for lunch on a weekday too. Very friendly service, I had the Meatloaf Ciabatta Sandwich ($9). The meat was baked, then grilled (a little burnt) with caramelized red onions, mozzarella and jack cheeses and garlic mayonnaise. Very tasty but way too large for lunch, so I took the other half home. She kept my Root Beer glass full and I dared not try any of their great looking desserts. Makes a nice alternative to Ruby Tuesday's or T.G.I. Fridays. Seemed a little pricey for lunch but dinner entrées were more in line. Great chocolate mints on the way out!
Q=3 S=5 V=2 Total=10 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Review: (from Howard H. 9/09) We actually happened on Mimi's by accident. We had gone into the Friday's lot and decided to try something different. From the moment we walked in the door to the moment we walked out, we thoroughly enjoyed our visit. We felt like we had gone into a French Bistro. Nicole G. couldn't have been more attentive. She asked us if this was our first visit. We said yes! We started off with two imported beers at $5 each. She had a cup of the Daily Special Soup which was Split Pea with Ham ($2). Delicious. I opted for the Pot Roast, luncheon size. Just enough food for me at $9. Piping hot and tasty, served with homemade mashed potatoes. Again superb! She had a salad of Chicken, Fruit and Baby Greens ($8). Fresh and tasty. With hard rolls and banana bread before-hand. Hot and fresh. As we were totally filled with that, we opted out of dessert. At that time the manager came over and informed us that since this was our first visit that he would like us to take home a "Muffin Box", four freshly-baked assorted muffins. After telling him that we lived in The Villages, he informed us that they just opened a Mimi's in Ocala. We can't wait to try it. The only down-side would be if the new restaurant wasn't as perfect as this one. The total check with tax and tip was $38. Don't miss this treat when possible! If not for the "reasonable value" rating, this would have been a solid 15.
Q=5 S=5 V=4 Total=14 out of 15. Return=Yes.

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Ming Court, 9188 International Dr., Orlando, FL. 56.4 mile drive from The Villages. 407-351-9988. L/D. Lunch: 11 AM - 2 :30 PM and Dinner: 4:30 PM - 11:30 PM daily. The Art of Asian Cuisine comes to Orlando. A large (12,500 square foot) 400 seat Chinese restaurant popular with locals and tourists from the nearby convention center. Large menu. Cantonese, Szechwan, Hunan, Mandarin and Beijing style cuisines are available, as well as Japanese, Korean, Vietnamese, Thai and Polynesian influenced meals are also prepared. Dim Sum dishes are popular, as are Sushi and Flaming Woks. 175 entrées range from $12 to $30 each for dinner. Very exotic décor. Ocassional authentic live Oriental folk music. Banquets arranged. Reservations accepted. Dressy casual. Full bar. Au Thai & Pei-Jian Li, master chefs. Chen and Wu families, owners.

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Review: (from Dennis C. 12/06) We've eaten here 3 times in the last 3 years. Each time it seems to decline a little. Don't get me wrong, the menu is vast and the surroundings are wonderful. Ask to sit in the center room so you hear the live Chinese music. Service can be burly at times and unlike many Chinese restaurants, the servers are of mixed non-Asian heritage. Still the food is well prepared and authentic. A little different than what you are used to. Many Asian countries are represented on the menu.
Q=4 S=3 V=3 Total=10 out of 15. Return=Yes.

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Neon Leon's Zydeco Steakhouse, 10350 W. Yulee Dr., Homosassa, FL. 49.8 mile drive from The Villages. 352-621-3663. L/D. Open daily except Monday, 11 AM to 9 PM. Off the beaten track. From US 19/98 at the south end of Homosassa Springs State Park property (at the Burger King), turn west on CR 490A (W. Yulee Dr.). Go 1.5 miles, following the signs toward Yulee Sugar Mill Historic Site. At the stop sign, turn left to stay on W. Yulee Drive. Just a few blocks more on the left. "Laissez les bon temps rouler!". This music joint let's the good times roll every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday at 5 PM, as well as Sunday at 5 PM. Infectious Cajun & Zydeco music is a crowd pleaser often performed by Cajun Dave Becnel. Specializing in steaks such as NY Strip, Rib-Eye and Prime Rib on weekends are all hand cut. They range $14-19 depending on size. Louisiana landcrawl/seafood such as Frog Legs, Gator Tail, Catfish, Scallops, Oysters, Flounder or Tilapia range $12-21. Combination platters also available. Signature Cajun dishes include Étouffée, Gumbo, Rad Creole, Jambalaya and other low country specialties range $12-16. Less adventuresome patrons can also find Open Faced Turkey or Beef Sandwiches, Liver & Onions and Stuffed Peppers at $9. Even Po' Boys can be found on their menu. Appetizers, soups and salads make the selections even wider. Blackberry Cobbler a house specialty. Reservations accepted. Full bar. Named after Leon Wilkeson, former bass guitarist of the Lynyrd Skynyrd rock band. Mitch and Lorraine Simmons owners.

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Review: (from Rich C. 6/09) We arrived about 4 PM on a Sunday and there were only a few patrons. The owners were gracious and spent some time checking on customers. I ordered a beer and she had an iced tea. Not sure about how spicy their Cajun food is, so I played it safe and opted for a 12 oz. New York Strip Steak ($14) with Mashed Potatoes and Candied Carrots. She ordered Bacon Wrapped Shrimp ($15) with a Salad and Black-Eyed Peas. It arrived promptly. My steak was a little fatty but very flavorful and fairly tender. It was typical of any good strip steak. Her meal was a surprise. There were 5 large deep fried "balls". A lot of crab and filling double wrapped in bacon strips surrounding 5 shrimp with tails on. She didn't expect deep fried food but it was tasty. She only could eat 3 of them. The sides were good, my potatoes were homemade with the skins on and the carrots were flavorful. Her salad had nice fresh greens. Service was good and the atmosphere was interesting with a lot of rock memorabilia and Mardi-Gras tricolors. The music started at 5 PM (not 3 as their own website states). Cajun Dave knows how to play great Zydeco music but chooses to play mostly "cross-over" pop. We preferred the recorded music that played from 4-5 PM. Too bad there isn't a dance floor. We're avid Zydeco dancers and this could attract dancers from Tampa and The Villages. We skipped the Blackberry Cobbler. All in all a nice meal. Total came to $37 with tax.
Q=4 S=5 V=4 Total=13 out of 15. Return=Yes.

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New Deal Café, 3445 W. University Ave., Gainesville, FL. 66.3 mile drive from The Villages. 352-371-4418. L/D. At the west end of the Westgate Regency Shopping Plaza, next to Mildred's Big City Food. Open daily from 11 AM to 10 PM except Sunday when it's closed. If Mildred's is big city food, then New Deal is little city food. Salads ($7-10) like Buttermilk Fried Chicken, Flatbreads ($8) like Roasted Oyster and Button Mushroom, Burgers ($8-10) like Maytag Bleu and Bacon and Paninis ($8) like Eggplant and Roasted Tomato dominate the menu. Full entrées like Pecan Crusted Chicken Breast ($13) and Ginger Cured Salmon ($12) are stolen from Mildred's. Full bar with a nice selection of beers and wine. Reservations not required. Tara and Robert (Bert) Gill, owners. Also owns Mildred's Big City Food, see above, and Ti Amo!, see below.

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Norman's, 4000 Central Florida Parkway, Orlando, FL. 56.9 mile drive from The Villages. 407-393-4333. D. In the Ritz-Carlton Hotel at Grande Lakes Resort complex. Very upscale restaurant. 3 course prix fixe offering is $55 per person. A-la-carte entrées off the menu range from $27 (for Poblano Relleno) to $46 (for Mongolian Grilled Veal Chop). A tasting meal is available at $80 per person. Chef Norman van Aken blends Caribbean and Florida flavors in New World cuisine. Unusual Italian palazzo décor. Reservations suggested. Full bar. One of three establishments in Florida and California.

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Northwest Grille, 5115 NW 39th Ave., Gainesville, FL. 69.0 mile drive from The Villages. 352-376-0500. L/D. Located a few miles east of Exit #390, I-75. Open for lunch and dinner daily. In business since 1996. Large selection of seafood, steak and poultry. Steak & chicken specialties include Stuffed Chicken, Chicken Française, Blackened, Grilled or Gorgonzola Crusted 12 oz. NY Strip Steaks, 8 oz. Sirloin, 10 oz. Top Sirloin and 8 oz. Filet Mignon ranging from $13 to $21. Also Combos of Soft Shell Crab, Snow Crab or Fried Shrimp with NY Strip and Lobster Tail & Filet Combo range from $15 to $20. Other specialties include Pan Seared Mahi, Salmon Florentine, Grilled Tuna with Thai Peanut Glaze, Roast Duckling, Drunken Grouper and Shrimp Scampi generally run $15 to $21. All You Can Eat Fish & Chips and Pasta Dishes also available. Live Lobster featured on Friday & Saturday. Other specials served daily. Full bar and wine list. Happy hour 3-7 PM daily. Reservations accepted. Don Regan, owner.

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Review: (from Rich C. 4/09) This seems like a neighborhood restaurant that has been in business a long time - and we can see why. They are located in a low rise office complex on the northwest side of the city. Nice friendly greeting at the door. Lu would be our server. We told her we had limited time, as we had tickets for the "Celtic Women" show at UF. $5 Martini Night was an attention getter. I ordered wine and by better half had a St. Augustini (which was really rum and pineapple juice among other things). Very large menu, mostly of seafood and steaks but chicken and pasta dishes are also there. I had the 8 oz. Black Angus Strip Steak and Fried Soft Shell Crab Combo ($16). She had the Stuffed Chicken ($15). Nice crisp, cold, green salad and a hunk of dark bread preceded our meals which came out promptly as we finished our salads. Her's was good but had brown gravy and mushrooms covering it. Not what she expected but truthfully we didn't read the details on the menu before we ordered hastily. Mine was very good. The steak was tender, flavorful and cooked right. The crab was interesting. Don't get Soft Shell Crabs that often and I love Wild Rice. I had a second wine ($5) and we were out in 60 minutes and made curtain time we ease. The staff is very friendly here. Lu did a great job of getting us out in a hurry. Total before t&t was $46.
Q=4 S=5 V=4 Total=13 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Review: (from Ellen H. 4/09) We arrived with 4 other friends at 5:30 PM and had a selection of tables. A nice round one for 6 fit our needs perfectly. $5 Martini Thursdays and 2 for 1 house wines were offered. Our friends remarked at the vast menu, daily specials and reasonable prices. I started with a nice Caesar Salad and he shared the Crab Stuffed Mushrooms with the table. Both were excellent. I ordered Salmon Florentine and he ordered the large Gorgonzola Crusted Angus Sirloin, medium rare. All 6 of us enjoyed our meals especially our friend who ordered the Ahi Tuna with Thai Peanut Glaze. It was a large and delicious piece of fish done perfectly. We even opted for a piece of Chocolate Chip Cheese Cake and a coffee. With one martini, 4 glasses of wine, one appetizer, one salad, two main dishes with side vegetables, one dessert and one coffee came to $63 before t&t. Lu was our server and she was right on top of things. The whole team pitches in to clear dirty dishes and refill iced tea or water. Excellent meal with no complaints in our party of 6 and a great value in a well established neighborhood restaurant.
Q=5 S=5 V=5 Total=15 out of 15. Return=Yes.

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Nouvelle Cuisine, 10531 Spring Hill Dr., Spring Hill, FL. 65.1 mile drive from The Villages. 352-686-6860 L/D. In business since November 1999. Two miles west of the Suncoast Parkway about 1 hour from The Villages. Located about 5 buildings west of Mariner Blvd. next to "Jerry's Place". Open Tuesday through Friday for lunch 11:30 AM to 2 PM and daily including Saturday and Sunday for dinner 4:30 to 9 PM, except closed Mondays. Specializing in the unique cuisine of Belgium and northern France. A taste of Bruges, Belgium and influences of Normandie and Pas-de-Calais, France prevail. Comfortably decorated dining room. Appetizers include French Onion Soup au Gratin, Seafood Crêpes, Frog Legs or Shrimp in Garlic Butter and Escargot Bourgogne. Entrées include Chicken dishes with Port Wine or Belgium Sauces, Long Island Duck with Blackberry Sauce, Quail with Taragon Sauce, Pork Tenderloin with Bordelaise Sauce, Filet Mignon with Béarnaise Sauce, Veal a la Blue with Roquefort Sauce and even Chateaubriand for two. They range $16-28 each. Seafood entrées offered include Filet of Salmon with Muscadet Sauce, Dover Sole Meuniere, Lotte Monk Fish with Curry Sauce, Shrimp with Green Peppercorn Sauce, Lake Victoria Perch with Dijon Mustard Sauce and even Coquilles St. Jacques with Leek Sauce. They range $19-23. Their signature Rack of Lamb, occasionally available. All dinners served semi-a-la-carte and include salad, fresh vegetables and specialty Gratin Dauphinois ("Gra-tahn Doe-feen-wah"). Wine list, beer list (including Belgium beers) and homemade dessert list. Full bar. 18% gratuity added to parties of 6 or more. Reservations accepted. Chef Jan Kinds and wife Isabelle Roos, owners.

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Ocean Prime, 7339 West Sand Lake Road, Orlando, FL. 55.1 mile drive from The Villages. 407-781-4880. D. Open daily except holidays from 4 PM. Located on SR 482 half way between Dr. Phillips Blvd. and I-4, near Turkey Lake Rd. at "The Rialto". Opened in November, 2008, this is now one of Orlando's landmark premium restaurants. Elegant supper club atmosphere with exemplary service. The a-la-carte menu is predominantly seafood with steaks and cocktails supplementing the meal. Appetizers range $11-16 and include a Cheddar Fondue, Prime Beef Carpaccio, Goat Cheese Ravioli and Oysters Rockefeller. Feature appetizer is Colossal Shrimp Saute at $17. Broiled fresh fish ranges $22-34 and include Mountain Trout, Atlantic Salmon, Black Grouper, Swordfish, Halibut, Chilean Sea Bass and Australian Lobster Tail. Sauces at $3 each are extra. Prime steaks range $31-48 and include 7 or 10 oz. Filet Mignon, 12 oz. Rack of Lamb, 14 oz. NY Strip, 16 oz. Kansas City Strip, 18 oz. Ribeye and a 22 oz. Portly Porterhouse. Add Jumbo Lump Crabmeat with Béarnaise Sauce for $7 extra. The chef specials being offered, ranging $23-36, include Amish Chicken, Seared Tuna, Sea Scallops, Blackened Snapper and Lump Crab Cakes. Feature entrée is Ginger Salmon at $29. Ten styles of potatoes are $8-9 extra, as are vegetables at $7-11 extra. Five varieties of salads, such as Crisp Wedge of Iceberg add $9-11 to the bill. Almost 50 wines by the glass or basic cocktails, start at $6 and run to $16. Their mostly US wine list boasts about 100 labels. Louis XIII Cognac ($120) can complete the meal. Full bar. Complimentary valet parking. Live piano music Tuesday through Saturday from 6:30 PM. Reservations highly recommended. Todd Baggett Executive chef; Michael Will, general manager. One of six in this chain of Cameron Mitchell restaurants, headquartered in Columbus, OH. Another location is in Tampa, FL.

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Old Spanish Sugar Mill Grill & Griddle House, 601 Ponce DeLeon Blvd., DeLeon Springs, FL. 52.4 mile drive from The Villages. 386-985-5644. B/L. Open daily except Thanksgiving and Christmas. Weekdays 9 AM to 4 PM; Saturday & Sunday 8 AM to 4 PM. No seating after 4 PM. Located inside the DeLeon Springs State Park. Located off US 17 about 7 miles north of DeLand, FL. $5 per car park admission collected at the gate. Opened in 1961 and popular ever since. Often referred to as "that pancake place in the park". A unique "griddle house", located in an 1830's sugar mill, where patrons cook their own meals. The tables are equipped with an electric griddle where customers can customize their pancakes and other grilled food. The restaurant supplies pitchers of homemade stone ground or unbleached white pancake batter. Blueberries, bananas, peanut butter, pecans, chocolate chips, apples and apple sauce are sold for filling or topping your own creation. Real maple syrup offered. Other items available are eggs, ham, bacon, sausage and homemade bread. Design your own breakfast. Sandwiches and salads are also available during lunch time. Juice and coffee offered for beverages. Base price is $4.50 per person. Side orders for meat, eggs, fruit etc. range $1.50 to $2.25 each. Sandwiches and salads are $4-8. The park offers natural 72 degree springs where large fish and manatees can often be seen in the winter. Boat tours of the Spring Garden Run are offered every hour until 1 PM. Canoes, kayaks and paddle boats can also be rented. The park is especially beautiful in the early spring. No reservations except for parties of 10 or more on a space-available basis. Typically, 1/4 to 1 hour wait on weekdays; 1 to 2 hour wait on weekends in winter. Hostess is at the checkout counter. Inquire at the gate what the wait time is before paying the entry fee. Best time is at opening hour or after 1 PM. No bar. Patricia Schwarze, owner.

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Review: (from Rich C. 4/08) Quite a drive via Astor & Barberville, FL, but worth the trip. Get your name on the list at the counter as soon as you arrive. Always an hour wait but the park provides interesting distractions while you wait for a table. We always spot a Manatee in the spring. Restaurant holds only 50 people. The fun begins with choosing your sides and toppings. It's easy to get carried away with eggs, bacon and sausage too. Coat the griddle with non-stick spray and off you go grilling your own "flap jacks". Two batters are available and we like both. Best to come with 4-6 people. By the time you're done, the bill is $30 per couple or more. A visit to quaint DeLand, down the road, makes for a perfect day trip, if you can get started early on a weekday. What fun!
Q=5 S=4 V=3 Total=12 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Review: (from Gloria K. 1/09) What a great idea - being able to make your own pancakes and eggs at the table and eat them HOT! That is my pet peeve with breakfast entrées - that it is often served cold. So, we enjoyed the delicious batter prepared by the restaurant, especially the whole wheat and all the toppings. We were given blueberries but there were other choices as bananas, raisins and apples. The bacon, ham and sausage were excellent (cooked by the kitchen) and the coffee, also kept hot at the table in a carafe, was rich and delicious. We had the opportunity to explore the restaurant as part of a bus trip with AAA. They will be repeating the trip regularly, so I would recommend checking out the next trip with them. The hour and a half drive goes quicker by bus and it's a good value.
Q=5 S=4 V=4 Total=13 out of 15. Return=Yes.

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Old World Restaurant, 8370 S. Florida Ave., Floral City, FL. 38.9 mile drive from The Villages. 352-344-4443. LD. Open 3:00 - 8:30 PM except Sunday hours are 11 AM to 7 PM. Closed Mondays and Tuesdays. Offers such entrées as Roast Duck, Veal Schnitzel, Orange Roughy, Prime Rib, Pork Ribs and a few German dishes. Focus is on meat and potatoes. Home made soups. Apple Streussel is a favorite. Established in 1984. Full bar. Reservations accepted and advised in season. Dusan and Olimpia Mundrean, owners.

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Papa Joe's Italian Restaurant, 6244 Spring Lake Highway, Brooksville, FL. 47.1 mile drive from The Villages. 352-799-3904. L/D. I-75 Brooksville exit, then 4 miles west on US 50 behind the western wear store. Well established, family run, local restaurant since 1981, featuring pasta and a wide variety of meat entrées. Not to be confused with Papa John's Pizza. Seafood Pasta with lobster, clams, scallops, crab, shrimp and oysters in a creamy sauce is a specialty. Entrées range from $10-$18 each. Deli and gift shop adjacent. Room for private party. Full Bar. Donna and Papa Joe Giarratana, owners.

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Review: (from Ellen H. 2/07) As far as we're concerned there is no other good restaurant in Brooksville. The name sounds a little hokey but it is a very large and well run 25 year old restaurant. Excellent traditional Italian dishes with some specials here and there. We stop here on the way back from Tampa since once you get past Brooksville, there are no decent restaurants until you get to the crowded Villages. They have a wide menu and friendly staff. We like to look in the deli case and stop in the fun gift store too. The locals know it well.
Q=4 S=4 V=4 Total=12 out of 15. Return=Yes.

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Paramount Grill, 12 SW 1st Ave., Gainesville, FL. 64.6 mile drive from The Villages. 352-378-3398. L/D. Located in downtown Gainesville at Main and South 1st. Open for lunch Monday through Friday 11 AM to 2 PM. Dinner served nightly from 5 PM. Sunday Brunch offered 10 AM to 3 PM. A very eclectic mix of American cuisine. Appetizers include Almond Crusted Crab Cakes, Fried Green Tomatoes and Rosemary Flat Breads. Main dishes include Grilled Salmon over warm cucumber, red onion, poached tomato quinoa salad; Gulf Shrimp with snow peas and garlic fettucini; Pan Roasted Angus Beef Filet with sherry wine sauce; Baked Chicken stuffed with crab and Grilled Peppercorn Duck Breast over risotto. Other offerings include Tofu Saute with vegetables to Jamaican Jerk Marinated Grouper. Entrés range $15 to $28 each, but mostly $20-22. Lunch offerings are generally under $10. Sunday Brunch Omelets range $8-13. Reservations accepted. Impressive beer and wine lists. Wines by the bottle range $26 to $110 and by the glass from $5 to $10 each. Clif Nelson, chef and owner.

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Paris Bistro, 3586 Aloma Ave., Winter Park, FL. 63.8 mile drive from The Villages. 407-671-4424. L/D. Open 11 AM to 10 PM daily except Sunday and Monday. Located in the Commerce Shopping Center on SR 426, a few blocks east of SR 436, near Forsyth Rd. Cozy dining area. French Onion Soup ($5) or Frogs Legs, Escargot de Bourgogne, Mussels in Cream Sauce or Paté du Jour (all $10-11) start the meal. Bistro, Caesar and Niçoise Salads ($4-10) are available as main dishes or sides. The entrées include Coq au Vin (Chicken in Wine), Ballotines de Volaille (Chicken Breast Marsala), Canard aux Peches (Duck Breast with Peach Sauce), Saumon Cretoise (Salmon with Feta & Eggplant), Crevettes a la Provençale (with Garlic), Bœuf Bourguignon (in Red Wine), Agneau Tangine (Moroccan Lamb Stew), Filet de Bœuf (8 oz. Filet Mignon), Veau Normande (with Creamy Mushroom Sauce) and Lapin aux Pruneaux (Rabbit with Prunes) and all range $16-25 each. Chateaubriand ($59 for 2) served table side is a specialty. Crêpe Suzettes are their signature dessert. Extensive wine list. Wine tasting dinners held occasionally. Reservations accepted and advised for dinner. Lower prices at lunch time. Roselyne Marlot, chef; Tatiana and Sebastian Cerruto, owners.

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Park Plaza Gardens, 319 Park Ave. South, Winter Park, FL. 60.6 mile drive from The Villages. 407-645-2475. L/D. Lunch: 11:30 AM - 2:30 PM; Dinner: 6 PM - 9 PM daily and Sunday Brunch 11 AM - 3 PM. At New England Ave. Inviting European cafe atmosphere. Continental cuisine featuring beef, seafood and pork. Entrées range from $23 to $36 each such as Jumbo Crab Cakes, Crispy Peking Duck, Pecan Crusted Brook Trout and Black Angus Tenderloin. Semi-formal attire. Sunday Brunch offered. Reservations accepted. Full bar and personal wines welcome with corkage fee. 20% gratuity added for parties of 6 or more or requesting separate checks. Justin Plank, chef.

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Pasta Vino, 550 West Ave., Clermont, FL. 32.6 mile drive from The Villages. 352-243-1222. L/D. Open 11:30 AM to 9 PM daily except opens at 4 PM on Monday. Cozy house located just north of W. Minneola Ave. Offering traditional Italian food with a variety of sauces, as well as pizza in a casual atmosphere. Sandwiches and salads are also available. Noted for their pizza concoctions. Beer and wine only. Lori Pollock, owner.

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Paul's Smokehouse Restaurant, 3665 S. Washington Ave., Titusville, FL. 92.5 mile drive from The Villages. 321-267-3663. D. Located on US 1, about 1/2 mile north of SR 50. Open daily except Monday at 4 PM. Nice water-front location on the Indian River with an unobstructed view of the Kennedy Space Center. Opened in 1975. Early Bird Specials 4-7 PM Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday only. Large dining room, downstairs; lounge and busy bar, upstairs. Specializes in Prime Rib, Seafood and Steaks. NY Strip, Filet Mignon and Petite Filet Mignon range $22-25. Prime Ribs range 8 to 16 oz. servings, from $17 to $23. Grilled Swordfish, Broiled Salmon, Shrimp Scampi, Rock Shrimp, Sea Scallops, Lobster Tail and Fried Oysters range $14-29 each. Chicken dishes and Pork Chops run $12-14. Hamburger Platter also offered at $7. Pork Spare Ribs sold at $11. Plates of Beef, Pork, Chicken or Ham are on the menu at $8. A few pasta dishes also available. Baked French Onion, New England Clam Chowder and Brunswick Georgia Stew are popular. Main dishes include two sides such as potato, rice, fries, vegetables and a selection of salads. Daily specials announced by the servers. Wine list. Full bar available. Parking lot crowded one hour before a space shuttle launch. Reservations accepted and recommended during launch days. Window table preferred. Paul Salisbury and Wanda Wyckoff, owners.

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Review: (from Rich C. 1/09) We were in the area to watch a satellite launch from Cape Canaveral. Perfect location here with large windows to watch dolphins, water foul or rockets. Our friends recommended this restaurant. We arrived at 5:30 PM and were seated immediately. I ordered Kendall Jackson Chardonnay ($6) and she had an iced tea ($2). We started with Caesar salads which were excellent and had a hint of curry or other seasoning. She had Fried Oysters and I had a special combo of a small Sirloin Steak and some small Broiled Shrimp in butter. They were cooked perfectly and were very tender. We finished with Bourbon Pecan Pie ($5) and a Coconut Cream Pie ($5). Leah was an excellent server. It was crowded before we left. Total before t&t with two wines was $55. We'll be back. (The launch was canceled, however!)
Q=5 S=5 V=4 Total=14 out of 15. Return=Yes.

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Peck's Old Port Cove, 139 North Ozello Trail, Crystal River, FL. 57.4 mile drive from The Villages. 352-795-2806. L/D. Open 11 AM to 10 PM daily. Located in Ozello, Florida. Take SR44 from Wildwood west to Crystal River, turn left onto US19/98 and go south 2 miles, right on Ozello Trail for about 10 miles. Interesting drive. Specializes on shell fish. Steak, Chicken and Prime Rib also available. Various Shrimp, Scallops and Filet of Fish dishes are offered. Clam Chowder is popular here too. Old Florida fish camp ambiance. Blue Claw Crab Farm in their backyard. Known for their Original Garlic Crab dish. Most meals $10 to $20 each. View of the bay. Reservations accepted. Full bar. Mason jar cocktails. Dave Finley, Dan Williams and son, owners.

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P. F. Chang's China Bistro (Orlando), 4200 Conroy Rd., Orlando, FL. 53.2 mile drive from The Villages. 407-345-2888. L/D. At the Mall at Millenia. This location serves the central Orlando metropolitan area. Entrées range from $7 to $20 each. Philip's Better Lemon Chicken, Mu Shu Pork, Kung Pao Chicken, Oolong Marinated Sea Bass and Ground Chicken and Eggplant are just some of the unusual creations. Noodle bowls, Meins and Rice dishes also available. Casual dress. No reservations accepted. Full bar. One of a large nationwide chain. 2008 Foodie Reader's Choice winner for "Best Chinese Restaurant" in the Orlando area by The Orlando Sentinal. Another location is in Winter Park (see below).

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Review: (from Jim C. 8/07) Do not bother going. This is Chinese cuisine on the fast food level. It is a chain. It is NOT Chinese food; believe me, I know. Our closest friends are Chinese from China and they have introduced us to real Chinese food and restaurants in New York and San Francisco Chinatowns, the kind that only Asians eat in. The following describes the items we ordered: Wonton Soup for two, had wontons in a salty chicken broth, nothing else. The Sweet and Sour Chicken (Pork was not on the menu) contained more peppers than pineapple and onions and the sauce had no taste. The Chicken and Black Bean Sauce and the Fried Rice Combo were on the style of Chinese food you can find in the food court at the mall. It was better then the previous two items, but not by much.
Q=2 S=2 V=1 Total=5 out of 15. Return=No.

P. F. Chang's China Bistro (Winter Park), 436 North Orlando Ave., Winter Park, FL. 60.2 mile drive from The Villages. 407-622-0188. L/D. At Winter Park Village Shops. Interesting décor and large selection of Asian cuisine done with flair. Entrées range from $7 to $20 each. Shrimp with Candied Walnuts, Chang's Lemon Scallops, Salt & Pepper Prawns, Chengdu Spiced Lamb and Orange Peel Beef are just a few of their Asian creations. Banana Spring Rolls offered for dessert. Casual dress. Very popular on weekends and no reservations accepted. Full bar. One of a large nationwide chain. Another location is in Orlando (see above).

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The Plantation Room, 700 Bloom St., Celebration, FL. 66.4 mile drive from The Villages. 407-566-6000. B/L/D. In the Celebration Hotel. Tropical décor reminiscent of 19th century Florida. Jumbo Crab Cakes with Mango Salsa and Seared Breast of Duck in Port Wine are just two of the featured entrées. Infamous Bananas Foster featured for dessert. Main dishes range from $18 to $32 each for dinner and $8 to $15 each for lunch. Sunday brunch also. Dressy casual. Piano bar adjacent. Full bar and wine list. DeJuan Roy, executive chef.

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Primo, 4040 Central Florida Parkway, Orlando, FL. 57.2 mile drive from The Villages. 407-393-4444. D. Open 6 PM - 10 PM daily. In the J. W. Marriot Hotel at the Grande Lakes Resort. Fresh local ingredients emphasized. Grilled Long Island Duck, Organic Chicken alla Milanese, Cedar Planked King Salmon and Porcini Rubbed New York Strip Steaks are some of the choices. Entrées range from $21 to $35 a-la-carte. Indoor and outdoor seating. Reservations accepted. Dressy casual. Full bar, wine list and personal wines welcomed with corkage fee. Melissa Kelly, executive chef.

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Red Rose Dining Room, 2011 N. Wheeler St., Plant City, FL. 96.4 mile drive from The Villages. 813-752-3141. L/D. Located in the Ramada Inn Plantation House. Closed Mondays. Known for frequent entertainment as well as dance lessons. Supper club atmosphere. Mediterranean cuisine, but Italian dishes featured. Shrimp Picata, Crab Linguine and Veal Marsala are just some of the items on the menu. Entrées range from $14 to $28 each. Dressy casual. Reservations accepted and recommended on weekends. Riccardo Ciabatti, head chef.

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Red Wing Restaurant, 12500 South SR 33, Groveland, FL. 33.0 mile drive from The Villages. 352-429-2997. B/L/D. Open 7 AM - 11 AM Saturday & Sunday for breakfast; 11 AM - 2 PM for lunch daily; and 4:30 PM - 9 PM for dinner daily. Located in a building that's been a restaurant since 1948. About 2 miles south of SR 50, on SR 33. Unique breakfast and lunches as well as steak and seafood meals at dinner. Billed as "The Best Little Steak House in Groveland", it's hard to dispute since it's probably the only one! This unpretentious restaurant serves such exotic meat as Venison, Wild Boar, Elk, Bison, Duck, Ostrich, Quail and Gator. Entrées are semi-a-la-carte and start at $13 and top out at $30. Steaks are 21 day aged, hand cut, USDA Angus Beef and include Top Sirloin ($17), NY Strip ($20), Rib Eye ($20) and on Friday and Saturdays, 12 or 16 oz. Prime Rib ($19-23). Snow Crab Legs, Whole Catfish and Fried Quail are offered as "All You Can Eat" Specials on weekdays. Large wine list and many imported and domestic beers. Noted for their homemade cobblers. Coupon for free dessert available here. Patrick Borsey and Christopher Seefeldt, owners.

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Review: (from Rich C. 12/07) We were in Clermont and we thought we'd drive over to try this unusual country restaurant. A nice wine list greeted us. Our meals started with cold, crisp Garden and Caesar Salads. They were fresh, green and enjoyable. We ordered from their large Game Menu Supplement, which unfortunately is not shown on their website. I was adventuresome and ordered the Bison Ribeye, medium. It came with a baked potato (no nasty aluminum foil) with two spikes of homemade fried potato triangles for garnish and a medley of sautéed vegetables. The meat was not gamey but you could tell it was not the regular beef. I enjoyed it, especially the brown sauce. She had the Blue Claw Crab Stuffed Salmon and a side of "Red Wing Royal", a delicious compote of artichokes, mushrooms and shallots in a brown butter sauce. She enjoyed them. Both entrées were very nicely presented. You can tell the chef had some good education in both flavor and presentation. We also split a slice of Raspberry Key Lime Cheesecake. On a Saturday night at 6 PM, the restaurant was not at all crowded. Our service was impeccable and very prompt. This is a nice alternative to chain restaurants and if you like Venison, Quail or Elk, this is the place to try it. The décor is plain but comfortable. We sat under the boar's head over the fireplace. With 2 house wines, a soft drink, 2 dinners and 1 dessert, the total came to $68 plus tax and tip.
Q=4 S=5 V=3 Total=12 out of 15. Return=Yes.

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Remington's Steak House, 27405 SR 54, Wesley Chapel, FL. 65.9 mile drive from The Villages. 813-973-1208. L/D. Located on Wesley Chapel Blvd. (SR 54), 1/2 mile west of I-75 at Exit #54. Open from 11:30 AM daily. Early Bird served until 6 PM. Top Sirloin, NY Strip, T-Bone, Ribeye, Delmonico, Prime Rib, Filet Mignon all the way to the 24 oz. Porterhouse are just some of the signature steaks they serve here, ranging from $11 to $23. Ribs here are Baby Back at $12-17, Chicken dishes range $12-13. Wide variety of side dishes too. Some seafood meals like Salmon and Shrimp as well as Alaskan Snow Crab Legs and Live Main Lobster range from $14 to $22. Key Lime Pie and Old Town Cheese Cake finish the meal. Special prices daily. Occasional entertainment. Full bar. Popular with locals. Call ahead seating. Abe Srour, owner.

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Rivership Romance, 433 North Palmetto Ave., Sanford, FL. 50.6 mile drive from The Villages. 1-800-423-7401, 407-321-5091. L/D. Meal/Cruise. Dock is off W. Seminole Blvd., just north of town. Ship sails the St. John's River from Lake Monroe.
3 Hour Cruises are usually Sunday, Wednesday, Friday & Saturday: 11 AM to 2 PM ($38).
4 Hour Cruises are usually Tuesday & Thursday: 11 AM to 3 PM ($48.50).
3 Hour Moonlight Dining & Dancing Cruise is Saturday: 7:30 to 11 PM ($54).
Special Event Cruises on some Sundays: 4 to 6:30 PM ($46). Call for schedule.
Advance reservations and payment are required. The 98 foot ship, built in 1942, holds 200 for meal seating. Group discounts for 25 or more. Bar beverages, taxes, gratuities and $2.50 port fee are extra. Entrées that might be available include Southern Tilapia, Mango Pork Tenderloin, Citrus Chicken, Vegetable Gratin or other seasonal dishes. Vegetables, salad, rolls and dessert are included. Full cash bar with wine selections. Robert & Evelyn Hopkins, owners.

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Riverside Crab House, 5297 South Cherokee Way, Homosassa, FL. 51.9 mile drive from The Villages. 352-628-2474. 800-442-2040. B/L/D. Open daily 11 AM to 9 PM. From 7 AM on Saturday & Sunday. Located at the Homosassa Riverside Resort on the Homosassa River in downtown Homosassa off US19/98. Pasta dishes like Linguini & Clam Sauce, Seafood Alfredo and Chicken Pasta Supreme are $16 including a Caesar Salad. 10 oz and 12 oz Prime Rib ($15-17), Top Sirloin ($16) and Delmonico ($17) Steaks are also on the menu. Crab Cakes, Grouper Fillet, Sea Scallops, Snow Crab and Catfish can be ordered from $15 to $21. However crabs are their specialty with 6 Blue Crabs ($16) or even 12 ($26) split and wok stir-fried with spices and garlic are their most popular dish. Crab Feasts for 2 to 10 people include Crabs, Peel-N-Eat Shrimp as well as Cole Slaw and Hushpuppies range about $10-12 per person. Dozen Mussels, Clams and Oysters ($8-12) are also popular. Fried Seafood Baskets range $7 to $11. Sandwiches also available. Dinner with river cruises offered also. Frequent entertainment. Interesting Monkey Island adjacent. Manatees frequent the water here in winter. Reservations accepted. Full bar. Gail Oakes and Donald & Maribeth Coller, owners.

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Romeo's Restaurant, 6933 SW 179th Ave. Rd., Dunnellon, FL. 42.5 mile drive from The Villages. 352-522-0309. L/D. Open for lunch Wednesday through Sunday 11 AM to 2:30 PM and for dinner on Friday and Saturday only from 5-9 PM. Located in the Juliette Falls Golf and Spa Community, off Rainbow Springs Blvd. (Hwy. 40) before reaching US41. Typical entrées include Grilled Beef Tenderloin ($30), Mulard Duck Breast ($28), Jumbo Sea Scallops ($33), Black Grouper ($27), Chilean Sea Bass ($35) and Chicken Roulade ($26). Lunch items range from $8-16. Reservations accepted. Full bar and wine selection. Rick Alabaugh, executive chef. Developer owned.

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Roy's Restaurant, 7760 W. Sand Lake Rd., Orlando, FL. 55.6 mile drive from The Villages. 407-352-4844. D. Located west of I-4 and Turkey Lake Road near Dr. Phillips Blvd. Opens at 5:30 PM daily including Sunday. Hawaiian-European Fusion Cuisine. Concentrates in providing fresh fish unique to the South Pacific waters. A Prix Fixe dinner at $35 might include a choice of appetizer, a choice of Braised Pot Roast, Hibachi Grilled Salmon, Lemongrass Sirloin Steak or Hawaii Kai Beef Short Ribs for the main dish plus a choice of dessert. Menu entrées include Seared Ono, Misoyaki Butterfish, Teppanhaki Black Tiger Shrimp and Blackened Island Ahi for sea choices ranging $23-29. Filet Mignon, Cowboy Rib Eye, Garlic Honey Beef Short Ribs and Grilled Chicken Breast are land choices at $21-33. Rolled Sushi is offered for appetizer at $9-16. Other appetizers include Chicken Larp Lettuce Wraps, Crispy Calamari and Lobster Potstickers at $8-14. Noted for their Melting Hot Chocolate Soufflé ($9) which should be ordered before the meal. Wine and Sake lists available. Full tropical bar. Reservations accepted and advised. Started in Honolulu in 1988, now 26 locations in the US, 6 of which are in Florida (including Tampa). Chef and partner, Michael Wos; managing partner, Dan Kirby.

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Rusty Duck, 2924 West Gulf to Lake Hwy. (SR 44), Lecanto, FL. 41.0 mile drive from The Villages. 352-746-6691. L/D. Exactly 25 miles west of I-75, on SR 44 on the south side of the Highway at Redwood Ter. Sign unlit. Open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 AM - 2 PM and 5 PM - 9 PM. Closed Sunday and Monday. Lunch and dinner served. Out of the way restaurant that serves Continental and American fare. Prime Rib, Honey Pecan Shrimp and Grilled Tuna can be found on the menu. Pasta, seafood, chicken, steaks and duck are also available. Noted for their Lobster Bisque. Small unpretentious setting. Reservations accepted and required most evenings for dinner in season. No liquor. Bring your own wine for a small corkage fee. Edward and Louise Aneiro, owners.

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Review: (from Martin G. 3/08) Our first impression when we finally located the Rusty Duck (we drove right by) was: "Are you sure this is the right place?" The outside is definitely not upscale looking and the dining area is small and could use a little face lift. The food however, is plentiful and delicious and artfully presented. And you wouldn't believe the prices considering the size of the portions. Our waitress was attentive and our soups and salads were served promptly with a basket of fresh baked flaky rolls. Our entrées did take a while but when they arrived we could see why. My wife ordered the Prime Rib dinner ($25) and when it arrived we all stared. I have never seen a portion that large. You could have fed four. Even after eating her fill, we ended up taking home almost 1 1/2 lbs of meat. I had a Seared Ahi Tuna Steak with a wasabi glaze and a side Seaweed Salad. Just delightful. Forget dessert, we were stuffed. They do have a nice selection, however. With tip and a modest corkage fee ($2.50 per bottle of wine) dinner for two with coffee came to $65. Well worth the trip considering we had roast beef and tuna sandwiches for three hearty lunches.
Q=5 S=4 V=5 Total=14 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Review: (from Rich C. 4/08) Decisions, decisions! So much on this menu, it takes a while to study the descriptions, then without notice, they bring the daily specials blackboard to you with ten more offerings on it. Many choices mean you can come back often and never get tired of the selections. Some have names like "Duck Emily" and "Duck Matthew" which need some translation from the waitress. Our table mates were friends from our Wine Appreciation Club in The Villages. We had Lisa New for our server, the same attractive lady that runs the "jewelry store" at the cash register. I had the 12 oz. NY Strip Steak Combo with a few Grilled Shrimp wrapped in smokey bacon. She had the Duck Matthew special, a boneless, skinless duck breast with mushrooms and a brown sauce. I really enjoyed the Mediterranean Salad and the Lobster Bisque Soup before our entrées. We brought our own California Cabernet and French Pouilly Fumé wines since they have no liquor license here. Excellent meal (including the wines!), but don't be in a hurry. We lounged for 2 hours as each dish is made to order. Surprisingly inviting inside, you are bound to drive by it from the drab exterior. Total with two coffees, two 4 course meals, one corkage fee and no dessert (too many decisions here too!) was $55 before t&t.
Q=5 S=4 V=5 Total=14 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Review: (from Kevin V. 4/08) While the building is a bit off-putting, once inside, a cozy, well appointed restaurant awaits. A great place to relax and kick back with friends in an intimate atmosphere. Excellent service, extensive menu with additional daily specials. Entrées come with soup, salad and starch. I had the Seafood Special with Linguine in a wine sauce which was excellent. Others had Steak and Shrimp, Duck and Chicken with Pecans and all thought the food was excellent. No bar, so bring your favorite wine. Corkage fee is a modest $1.50 per person. Total bill for two was $43 plus gratitity. Reservations are strongly recommended as space is limited. Dispite full capacity, nothing was rushed and we had plenty of time to enjoy the meal, conversation and wine. Excellent choice if you dont mind driving 50 minutes. Its worth it! Absolutely will return.
Q=5 S=4 V=5 Total=14 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Review: (from Ellen G. 5/08) My experience at the Rusty Duck was terrible. The restaurant is extremely noisy and the booths are very close to each other. I ordered an appetizer of Blue Cheese Stuffed Shrimp which was excellent. The Clam Chowder was alright, (I've tasted better) and for an entrée, I ordered Shrimp Michele which is lightly breaded shrimp, fried in a garlic, lemon and butter sauce. It was terrible. The sauce was a cream sauce and not a butter sauce. I sent it back and was asked if I wanted something else. I ordered a Shrimp Cocktail, everyone already had their meal. The Shrimp Cocktail came out without the shrimp being devained, I had to do it myself. When I got the check they did not take my entrée off the bill, told me she wrapped it up and charged me. The waitress was very kurt to me and had a bad attitude. I think her name was Lydia. I paid the bill, but did not leave a tip (something I have never done). I would never go back to this restaurant again.
Q=1 S=1 V=1 Total=3 out of 15. Return=No.

Review: (from David G. 5/08) My experience was OK, at best. I ordered the Blue Cheese Shrimp, Lobster Bisque and a Salad which were all terrific. The entrée of Veal Piccata had too much lemon. The Chocolate Pecan Pie was just OK. I felt extremely time pressured to hurry up, order and eat because we were told others will be waiting for our table. Whatever complaints our party had, were NOT handled professionally. My tab including tip was $32. Charging EVERYONE the $2.50 corkage fee was unreasonable.
Q=4 S=2 V=1 Total=7 out of 15. Return=No.

Review: (from Bob M. 5/08) On first look this palce looks like a low-class biker bar but once inside you will find a cozy, comfortable and homey setting that you will really enjoy. We had a reservation and were seated almost immediately. The menu is fantastic and contains a very wide range of choices for your palate. Service was very good and other than the fact that the resturant was busy it would have been as if she was serving our table alone. She explained how the meals were prepared and answered our questions with confidence. I ordered the 12 oz Steak JD (Jack Daniels) and it was far and above any other similar meal I have ever had. Doggy-bagged another meal from it for home. My wife ordered the Prime Rib and it was HUGE (2 more meals). We choose not to have the Potatoes and ordered the veggie of the day (Asparagus). The serving was small but considering the salad and the meat there really wasn't a lot of room left. Our combined bill including corkage, coffee and dessert was $65. Once you get past the outside of the building you are realy in for a treat.
Q=5 S=5 V=4 Total=14 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Review: (from Richard B. 7/08) Six of us from the Gourmet Club went and were VERY pleased. We had Prime Rib, Sushi Grade Seared Ahi Tuna, Twin Lobster Tails, Tiger Steak, Chicken Picata and Duck Harvey. The salads were fresh, green, with nice tomatoes and garlic croutons. The bread was outstanding (waitress happily brought another loaf). The Chicken Rice Soup (included) and Seafood Bisque (extra cost) were both excellent. Two desserts, Rum Cake and Frozen Raspberry Yogurt Pie, were superb and cheap at $3.25. Service was excellent. Only slight clinker: My wife was asked if she wanted Seaweed Salad with her Tuna but was not told it was extra at $4.95! Total cost of our meal (Prime Rib, Tuna, Seaweed Salad and one dessert) with tax was $55. We all agreed we'd go back.
Q=5 S=5 V=4 Total=14 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Review: (from Rosemary G. 12/08) Wow, this place is phenomenal! Don't go if you want a fast meal. We arrived at 7:30 and didn't get our entrées until 9:30, which was fine. Included with the entrée is soup or salad. They charge $1.25 per person corkage, you bring your own wine. I ordered the Prime Rib and I kid you not, it was over 2 lbs. and delicious. We had the left-overs for 2 meals and a lunch. I ordered it rare and it was done just right. I had the Pasta & Bean Soup and it was very tasty. He had the Tuna Special with a salad. The tuna was cooked just right, almost raw. With 2 coffees, the bill was $46. Next time I would make my reservation for 5:30 instead of 7:30. We were 7 altogether and enjoyed much conversation while waiting for our great meal.
Q=5 S=4 V=5 Total=14 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Review: (from Robert E. 5/09) We split the Prime Rib. It was large and well prepared but almost tasteless. People who ordered Lobster Bisque raved and those with Shrimp were very happy, while someone with Rack of Lamb was disappointed. We got our beverages, bread and salads in due time but were the last of those in the first seating to get our entrées, so it seemed like a long meal. The service was understandably rushed and curt. Management should rethink its sequencing of diners. If I ever go back (doubtful), I will order the African Bean entrée.
Q=3 S=2 V=2 Total=7 out of 15. Return=No.

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Rusty Fox, 649 12th St., Clermont, FL. 33.0 mile drive from The Villages. 352-394-3333. L/D. Open 11 AM to 9 PM. On Rt. 561 (Lake Minneola Shores Ave.), 2 blocks north of SR 50 and 5 blocks west of downtown Clermont. In business here since 1977. Plain interior with local photos of old buildings and red foxes. Casual atmosphere. Specializes in steak, seafood and chicken dishes. Well known for their 10 & 14 oz. Prime Rib dinners ($13-15). Also known for their spicey Bahamian Conch Chowder ($3.50) and a Pot of Escargot appetizers ($6). Steaks include NY Strip Steak San Marco, 8 oz. Filet Mignon, 16 oz. NY Strip, Twin Pork Chops, Broiled Rack of Lamb and Jack Daniels Peppercorn Filet range from $14 to $21. Seafood offerings include Shrimp with Chicken, Shrimp Scampi, Broiled Scallops, Portabella Mahi, Fried Shrimp or Broiled Seafood Platters are offered for $11 to $17. Chicken dishes include Chicken Marsala, Vesuvio or Florentine at $12. A limited number of Pasta dishes are also on the menu like Fettucini Alfredo and Pasta Primavera at $10. Most entrée prices include soup or salad and a vegetable. Sandwiches also available. Desserts include their popular Fried Cheesecake and Mississippi Mud Cake ($3). Crowded on weekends. Full bar; 2 for 1 happy hour 4-5 PM. No reservations. Chrystal McCall, owner.

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Review: (from Rich C. 12/08) We arrived at 4 PM when their dinner hour starts. I ordered a house chardonnay and she a club soda. We found the Pot of Escargot on the menu and being a fan of this type of food we had to order it. It's made with 8 to 10 large snails boiled in a brown Bourguignon broth made with brandy, red wine, mushrooms and garlic. A large slice of garlic bread came with it to sop up the pot of broth after fishing out the snails. This was an unbelievable appetizer. Very French and not the usual snails in the shells. The Caesar salads were cold and fresh Romaine but the dressing seemed to overpower it and both of us found ourselves eating only half our salads. She ordered the Shrimp and Chicken on Wilted Spinach with a Baked Sweet Potato and I had to try their large, 14 oz. Prime Rib with a Baked Idaho Potato. She enjoyed her dinner very much and my Prime Rib was excellent. She especially liked the Sweet Potato with cinnamon. The shrimp were large and the chicken tender. The dish was made with sun dried tomatoes for added flavor. My rib was very tender but not very hot. I would have sent it back to be warmed up but our server, Chloee, didn't check back with us. By 5:30 PM on a Friday, the place still wasn't busy. This restaurant has a good reputation for unusual dishes for over 30 years and we agree. No room for the famous Fried Cheesecake today, so we'll have to come back and start at the back of the menu next time! Total with 2 for 1 wines and one appetizer was only $40. Great bargain!
Q=4 S=4 V=5 Total=13 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Review: (from Ellen H. 1/09) Not as good as our first visit. He ordered the Pot of Escargot and Baked Eggplant Parmesan with a side salad and side spaghetti. I had the Pot with a full Caesar Salad with Shrimp. My salad was OK. His spaghetti was not only cold but all stuck together. Back it went! The eggplant was a thick slice and although hot, he prefers thinly sliced eggplant. We love the Escargot here. Service was good. With two wines, the bill came to $55 with tax. Not the best meal we've had here. We're willing to give them another chance. Should have had the Saturday Prime Rib Special For Two with a free bottle of wine at just $28.
Q=3 S=4 V=4 Total=11 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Review: (from Irene D. 5/09) This definitely was one of the worst eating experiences I have ever had. Only 2 out of the 26 people that I brought for lunch enjoyed their meal. Everyone else disliked it intensely. The salad was pathetic, a few pieces of lettuce with two extremely thin pieces of cucumber and red onion, drowning in dressing with a huge mess of home made sesame sticks, which were tasty, but 22 of them? When one of the party asked for dressing on the side, she was told the owner did not allow that. My entrée, Grilled Seafood, I was told by the waitress, was one of their best dishes. The Shrimp was so fishy (not fresh) and the Scallops were fake but the Mahi Mahi was decent. There were too many bad comments to enumerate. However, the worst of them all is that there was mildew on the ceiling and an unpleasant smell when we walked in. It was completely lacking in any ambiance. I cannot express the limit of my disappointment and horror in bringing this group to a restaurant that previously received such a high rating. I feel this restaurant should be closed due to health reasons for the mildew.
Q=1 S=3 V=1 Total=5 out of 15. Return=No.

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Ruth's Chris Steak House (Orlando), 7501 Sand Lake Rd., Orlando, FL. 55.3 mile drive from The Villages. 407-226-3900. D. At Dr. Phillips Blvd. just off I-4. Opens at 5:00 PM daily. Private club atmosphere. Noted for their beef with lamb and pork also avalable as well as lobster. Entrées ranging from $18 to $40 each. Mostly a-la-carte. Dressy casual to business attire. Free valet or self parking. One of a nationwide chain. Reservations accepted. Full bar. 2008 Foodie Reader's Choice runner-up for "Best Steakhouse" in the Orlando area by The Orlando Sentinal. Jason Garcia, chef. Chad Cancelosi, general manager. Also see the following listings.

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Ruth's Chris Steak House (Lake Mary), 80 Colonial Center Parkway, Lake Mary, FL. 46.8 mile drive from The Villages. 407-804-8220. D. This location is just off I-4 near Paola. Ruth's bills itself as the ultimate steak place. Entrées range about $20 to $40 each. Dressy casual. One of a nationwide chain. Reservations accepted. Full bar. Opens at 5 PM daily. 2008 Foodie Reader's Choice runner-up for "Best Steakhouse" in the Orlando area by The Orlando Sentinal. Rogelio Ortiz, chef. Anthony Hensley, general manager. Also see the listings above and below.

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Ruth's Chris Steak House (Winter Park), 610 North Orlando Ave., Winter Park, FL. 60.5 mile drive from The Villages. 407-622-2444. D. North of Winter Park Village Shops on US 17/92. Elegant, intimate atmosphere. Angus Beef with Lamb and Pork also available on the a-la-carte menu. Ahi Tuna is also popular. Entrées ranging from $18 to $40 each. Dressy casual. One of a nationwide chain. Reservations accepted. Open 5-10 PM. Full bar. 2008 Foodie Reader's Choice runner-up for "Best Steakhouse" in the Orlando area by The Orlando Sentinal. John Zimmerman, chef. David O'Bannon, general manager. Also see the listings above.

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Sam Snead's Tavern (Maitland), 1801 Maitland Blvd., Maitland, FL. 62.3 mile drive from The Villages. 407-622-8800. L/D. The Pine St. location is closed. This location is near Riverside Acres on Rt. 414 at the RDV SportsPlex. Sophisticated golf theme restaurant serving Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes, Fish & Chips, Chicken Marsala and Shrimp and Lobster Capellini. Grilled dishes include Fresh Mahi-Mahi, Shrimp Carolina, Florida Grouper, Atlantic Salmon as well as 10 oz. Top Sirloin, Center Cut Pork Chop, 14 oz. Ribeye Steak and Filet Mignon. Flat breads also available. Full bar. One of a dozen locations, mostly in Florida, operated by the Pike Corp. of Windermere, FL.

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Samba Room, 7468 West Sand Lake Rd., Orlando, FL. 55.5 mile drive from The Villages. 407-226-0550. L/D. Open weekdays from 11:30 AM. Saturday and Sunday from 4 PM. Dinner starts at 4 PM daily. Located on SR 482 near Dr. Phillips Blvd. on "Restaurant Row". Latin cuisine featuring grilled meat and seafood with exotic fruits and spices. The dinner menu contains items such as Rum Teriyaki Glazed Salmon, Chilean Sea Bass "Enchilado", Seared Jumbo Scallops, Florida Red Snapper, Grilled Beef Tenderloin, Argentinean Style Skirt Steak and Pork Barbacoa all ranging $16-27. Side dishes like Grilled Asparagus or Maduros add $4 to the bill. Soups and salads running $5-12 each are also offered. Appetizers such as Peruvian Fried Calamari, Satay, Tempura Coconut Shrimp and Samba Ceviche run $7-11. Patio seating available. Entertainment and salsa dancing on weekends from 10 PM generally. Casual attire. Reservations accepted. 18% gratuity added for parties of 6 or more. Full bar. Happy Hour from 4 to 7 PM daily. Extensive wine list ranging $24-250 per bottle. 2008 Foodie Reader's Choice runner-up for "Best Latin American Restaurant" in the Orlando area by The Orlando Sentinal. Jose Camey, executive chef; Franco Espada, managing partner. An e-Brands restaurant headquartered in Orlando, FL.

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Sanctuary Ridge Summit Restaurant, 2601 Diamond Club Dr., Clermont, FL. 33.9 mile drive from The Villages. 352-243-0411. B/L/D. At the Sanctuary Ridge Golf Club. Opens at 7:00 AM daily. Prime Rib night on Mondays and Thursdays. Specials include Soup or Salad, Prime Ribs plus two sides including a Carafe of Wine ($29 for two). Also 12 oz. New York Strip Steak ($16), Chargrilled Double Pork Chop ($18), Full Rack Baby Back Ribs ($14), Grilled Lamb Chop ($18), Bourbon Salmon ($15), Shrimp Scampi ($16), Sea Scallops ($17) and other entrées are offered. Ligher fare like 1/2 lb. Burger ($8), Fish Sandwich ($10) and Trio Salad ($9) also available. Sunday Brunch served 9 AM to 2 PM ($10). Full bar and occasional entertainment. Robert Sullivan and the Mulligan Society owner.

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SeaBreeze Restaurant (On The Dock), 310 Dock St., Cedar Key, FL. 86.3 mile drive from The Villages. 352-543-5738. L/D. Located at the east end of Dock St. on the water in the large, weathered, lighthouse-like building. Restaurant is upstairs (elevator available); lounge is downstairs. Window seats allow watching dolphins and other jumping fish in the Gulf. Nautical décor. Not the best location for sunset viewing. Serves mostly seafood like Florida oysters, clams (farm raised) and crabs. Other meals available too. Palm Salad is their specialty. Occasional entertainment. Full bar. Don Fansler, owner.

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Seasons 52 Fresh Grill (Altamonte Springs), 463 E. Altamonte Dr., Altamonte Springs, FL. 48.6 mile drive from The Villages. 407-767-1252. L/D. Weekdays lunch served: 11:30 AM - 2:30 PM; Dinner: 5 PM - 10 PM. Saturday & Sunday open 11:30 AM right through 10:00 PM. Located at Altamonte Dr. near Palm Springs Dr. at the Altamonte Mall, just east of I-4 on CR 436. Every item on their seasonally inspired menu contains less than 475 calories and is nutritionally balanced. Dishes such as Grilled Venison Chop, Pork Tenderloin Skillet, BBQ-Glazed Turkey Breast Skewer, Cedar Plank Atlantic Salmon, Sesame Crusted Tuna, Spicy Chipolte Shrimp, Pacific Halibut and Oak-Grilled Boneless Ruby Red Trout are just some of the healthful main dishes on the menu. Entrées range from $15 to $27 each. Flatbreads ($3-$9) are also available for even lighter choices. Soups and fresh salads are also favored. Mini-desserts such as Tiramisu, Carrot Cake and Key Lime Pie help push you past your calorie limit. Nutritional information available to patrons. The focus is on fresh seasonal ingredients as opposed to purveyor's mass market items.Piano entertainment nightly. Full bar and large creative global wine list of about 140 selections, half of which are available by the glass. Free valet parking. Reservations accepted. Casual attire. 2008 Foodie Reader's Choice winner for "Best Chain Restaurant", "Best Wine List" and "Best Overall Restaurant" in the Orlando area by The Orlando Sentinel. An elite chain of just 7 locations in Florida and Georgia since 2003, operated by Darden Restaurants of Orlando. Another location is on Sand Lake Road in Orlando. Michael Jong, general manager and Jeff Lavine, executive chef here.

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Review: (from Rich C. 7/08) Truly unforgettable dining experience! Being a Friday night, we called ahead for a reservation at 5:15 pm. After being shown our table in the back room, we politely asked if we could please sit in the main dining room between the very large bar and the open kitchen. The hostess obliged. The quiet, high ceilinged room is done in dark woods but the large window overlooking the outdoor dining area let plenty of light in, plus a spotlight shined down on every table making menu reading easy. The table and chairs were particularly attractive. Sparkling engraved wine glasses, two linen napkins each and Oneida Heirloom silverware greeted us at the table. Elise, our server, visited us promptly and inquired if this was our first visit. She explained about the fresh ingredients, 475 maximum calorie entrées and specials noted at the right column of the menu that change every week (thus the reason for the "52" in their name). The back of the menu was a very varied and interesting wine list. Many labels from South Africa such as "Indaba" were present. I opted for a "Brampton" Sav. Blanc ($7) and she ordered a Hawaiian Pineapple Cosmo cocktail ($12). The wine was a 7 oz. pour and her Cosmo came in a chilled shaker which filled her martini glass twice. We shared a wonderful Baked Shrimp-Stuffed Mushroom appetizer ($9) and we each had a "small" Baby Leaf Spinach Salad ($6.50) that was sprinkled with bleu cheese, pine nuts and thinly sliced fresh pears. The small salad was huge and we should have shared that too. Her entrée was Grilled Caramelized Sea Scallops ($19). That's something I would never order because I don't care for the sharp after-taste of most scallops. These were different; they were sweet and succulent. It came with Roasted Asparagus and delicious Pearl Pasta. I ordered the Roasted Pork Tenderloin ($17) and Elise advised that they cook it medium rare, (fully cooked but slightly pink in the center) and that's exactly how it arrived. Mine came in a hot skillet inside a china soup plate. All the plates were warmed in the oven and kept your dinner from cooling off throughout the meal. The vegetables were green, crisp and flavorful. We had no room for more after dinner but splurged after I asked Elise to bring out the "dessert parade" we saw frequently. These were small "shots" of heavenly desserts. Ten to choose from! She had the Key Lime Pie one and I had the Mocha Macchiato Cake one. Each are only $2.50. There went the 475 calories again! With impeccable service, fresh and healthy ingredients, lots of flavor, beautiful presentation and pleasant surroundings, we now call this our most favorite Orlando restaurant. Total, including my second wine, was $89 before t&t. It's easy to be tempted and overspend here but you can't go wrong.
Q=5 S=5 V=5 Total=15 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Review: (from Ellen H. 11/08) We arrived at 5 PM on a Wednesday when they opened. The hostess enters your name in their computer, for future reference I presume. Reservations are not required during the week. We were seated in the main dining area near the window. The décor is best described as "Mission Style", arts/craft, almost Frank Lloyd Wright, architecture with dark woods and sharp angles. Our waiter arrived promptly. After a friendly conversation, he presented us with his business card. Now what other restaurant do you know of that prints business cards for ALL their employees? We're impressed! Our waiter was Brian Fuller and after our good experience tonight, we will ask for him next time. We started with a wonderful (large) Cosmo for me and a Geyser Peak Chardonnay, or two, for him. I spotted the Baby Spinach Salad on the menu and he opted for the Baked Mushrooms Stuffed with Crab & Shrimp. The mushrooms came in 6 hole escargot-type ramekin. We traded tastes and both appetizers were wonderful. I had the Shrimp Stuffed with Crab and he enjoyed the Roasted Pork Tenderloin. Small portions but the pork also came with roasted polenta gratin, wilted spinach and cremini mushrooms - wonderful flavor. My Shrimp came with a nice medley of fresh vegetables in a garlic sauce. We had to see the flight of desserts and I had the Chocolate Peanut Butter Swirl while he had the Cheesecake one. What a nice little finale to a great meal. Total before t&t with 3 drinks was $89, well worth the service and flavor. Very highly recommended and we wish this restaurant was an hour closer to us.
Q=5 S=5 V=5 Total=15 out of 15. Return=Yes.

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Southern Heritage Dinner Train. See Inland Lakes Railway listing above.

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Speckled Butterbean Restaurant, 522 North Market Blvd., Webster, FL. 30.4 mile drive from The Villages. 352-569-5333. B/L/D. Open from 6 AM - 9 PM. Closed Sundays. Located inside the Sumter County Farmer's Market (not the Fair Grounds) in Webster facing CR 471. Breakfast includes home style eggs, waffles and pancakes too. Lunch ranges from sandwiches to salads to hearty cooked meals. Southern Country Food - buffet style, just like grandma used to make is featured for their Dinner Buffet. Specializes in Fried Chicken, Real Mashed Potatoes, Smoked Ribs, Beef Stew and Peach Cobbler. Many other desserts offered too. Seafood Buffet also available on Fridays. Snow Crab Legs and Frog Legs supplement the Chicken Legs that can be found here. Or you may order off the menu and find Chicken, Steaks, Burgers and other entrées. Very popular with locals and market workers. Weekday evening buffet is just over $10 per person. Limited soft drink selection and no bar. Nathan and Patricia Creach, owners.

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Review: (from Colene M. 3/09) This was our first time here and it was a surprise. We pulled in to the "Farmers Market" and saw the resturant. It's not much to look at but it had a lot of people there. In capris, we were overdressed. They had a buffet of several kinds of "beans", macaroni and cheese (great), okra, mashed potatoes and gravy and the BEST Chicken I've had in a really long time. It tasted "broasted" like we had in Ohio. Then the desserts were to die for. The cost of the buffet was $10.50 each and $1.25 for my husband's tea. No wine and you can't say this is "gourmet" but for down-home cooking, it was great. I wouldn't go there on Mondays since that's the "market day" and might be crowded.
Q=4 S=4 V=5 Total=13 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Review: (from Rich C. 3/09) What do Swedish Meatballs, Fried Chicken, Mac 'n Cheese, Beef Stew and Chicken Parmesan have in common? This wide variety of dishes can all be found on the Speckled Butterbean's Buffet Bar along with beans, greens, okra, potatoes, gravy and more. Start with a large selection of salad fixin's and end with a large selection of sweets, including layer cake, short cake, pie, pudding, fruit, ice cream and tasty home-made Peach Cobbler and you have one wonderful country-style, comfort-food assortment. Our Gourmet Group arrived at 6 PM and by 7 PM the little, sun-flowered café was full. Lots of local color and you will find people who eat here almost every day. Seems everyone knows everyone. Service was friendly and when you went back to the buffet for more, the checkered aproned waitresses grabbed your dirty plates. Utensils come in a white paper bag and the "china" is 1950s Melmac! Still, it doesn't change the flavor of good home cooking here. If they had a liquor license (- they don't -) they'd probably serve "moonshine lemonade". Great country food and low prices with friendly, "Y'all come back", service, add up to a winning combination. Food for two with soft drinks was just $23.50.
Q=4 S=4 V=5 Total=13 out of 15. Return=Yes.

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Stonewood Grill & Tavern (Gainesville), 3812 Newberry Rd., Gainesville, FL. 66.1 mile drive from The Villages. 352-379-5982. D. Opens daily at 5 PM, 4 PM Friday & Saturday and 12 noon on Sunday. Located on SR 26 a few miles east of Exit #387 of I-75 and just west of the University of Florida. Club atmosphere with mostly booths. Seasonal offerings might include Pork Saltimbocca ($15), Duck Confit with Bartlett Pear Salad ($12), Grilled Garlic Lamb Chops ($21), Shrimp Scampi on Pasta ($15), Grilled Shrimp and Scallop Skewer ($15) or Grilled Swordfish Bruschetta ($18). Hand-cut steaks and market fresh seafood cooked over an oak burning grill are this small chain's signatures. Single or Double Pork Chops ($14-18), 1 Pound New York Strip ($27), 7 or 12 oz. Sirloin ($16-20) and 6 or 9 oz. Filet Mignon ($22-26) top the beef offerings. Fresh Salmon, Trout, Mahi or Grouper run $17-22 each. Salmon Almondine with Blueberry Compote ($17) is a popular signature dish. Lower priced entrées like Chicken Pot Pie ($13), Pot Roast Platter ($13) and Ginger Lime Salmon ($14) are also available. As are Oak Grilled Hamburger ($9), Blackened Salmon BLT ($12) and Philly Cheesesteak ($9). Caesar Salad or a Cup of Clam Chowder are $3.50 additional or entrée sized salads like Mediterranean or Grilled Asparagus with Brie run $8 to $12. Wide variety of appetizers. Full bar and interesting wine list including some half bottles available. House wines run $6 per glass. 3 and 6 oz. pours of premium wines start at just $4. Martini discounts on Wednesday and Margarita and Mojito discounts on Thursday. Reservations accepted. About 16 locations in Florida plus one in Cary, NC. Matt Miller, manager and Monica Deel, operating partner here. Also see the listings below in the Orlando area.

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Review: (from Ellen H. 9/08) We enjoy the Hippodrome Theater in Gainesville and always dine out before the show. Six of us chose the Stonewood because of previous good experiences. We were seated immediately. Our server, Kayla, greeted us promptly and took orders for drinks advising us that happy hour was still in affect for house drinks. I had a Pomegranate Pear Martini ($8) and he had two house Chardonnays ($3 ea.). I ordered Trout Oscar that included a Caesar Salad ($24) and he had the Grilled Lamb Chops ($21) with a side Caesar Salad ($3.50). My fish was very good but the sauce and crab topping had little flavor. He really enjoyed his 5 chops and they were cooked exactly as ordered with flavorful mashed potatoes and asparagus spears. Our friends really liked their meals too (Crab Cakes, Tenderloin Skewer and Herb Encrusted Grouper). We all passed on dessert. The bread was a wonderful sourdough loaf. Kayla did a nice job but didn't come back to check on us until it was time for dessert. Can't give her a perfect score. Total for two was just $62 before t&t including the 3 drinks and salads. Love the quiet atmosphere here too. Highly recommended.
Q=4 S=4 V=5 Total=13 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Review: (from Rich C. 9/09) We love this place. Never crowded before 6 PM, five of us had a nice booth in the middle of the room. Merrisa was our server and we had a few minutes to study the menu before she arrived to take our drink orders. My better half had a Mojito ($4 Thursday Special) and I had a house Chardonnay ($6). She opted for a 1/2 Asparagus & Brie Salad and I had the 1/2 Caesar Salad. Both were large and presented on a long rectangular plate. One of the 3 specials that day was Grilled Pompano with Chevre. You seldom see this fish on menus - not even Bonefish has it that I'm aware of. I opted for the Grilled Lamb Chops. I had 5 "lollipop" chops that were cooked perfectly and seasoned nicely with mashed potatoes and asparagus spears. I thought the asparagus was under cooked and lacked flavor but my better half scarfed them up. She didn't care for the dry couscous that came with hers. We'll know next time to substitute something else. All in all everyone enjoyed their dinner. The Salmon Almondine with Blueberry Compote (on our recommendation) was "the best fish dish" our friend ever had. One cocktail each, no dessert and a coffee for her, came to $61 before t&t. Excellent service and they even changed the music selections for us when we asked for something more soothing. We need one of these in Ocala or better yet, The Villages.
Q=5 S=5 V=4 Total=14 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Stonewood Grill & Tavern (Heathrow), 1210 S. International Parkway, Heathrow, FL. 50.3 mile drive from The Villages. 407-333-3292. D. Near Exit 98 of I-4, off W. Lake Mary Blvd. Located in the Shoppes of Oakmonte. Opens at 4 PM daily. Décor is inviting dark panneled booths. Saddlebrook Chicken, Pork Adirondack, Pacific Cliffs Salmon and Herb Crusted Lamb are chef favorites. Pot Roast and Chicken Pot Pie also available for the lighter appetites. Dinner entrées range from $9 to $29. Casual dress. Full bar and wine list. Recipe mailing list available. Reservations accepted. One of a small chain based in Ormond Beach, Florida. Also see the following listing.

Stonewood Grill & Tavern (Orlando), 5078 Dr. Phillips Blvd., Orlando, FL. 51.9 mile drive from The Villages. 407-297-8682. D. Opens at 4:30 PM daily except 12 noon on Sunday. Club atmosphere. Herb Encrusted Grouper, Oak Grilled Citrus Salmon, Mahi & Mussels and Swordfish Bruschetta are some of the more favorite items on the menu. Crescent City Jambalaya and Blackened Chicken Pasta also available for the lighter appetites. Dinner entrées range from $9 to $29. Casual dress. Full bar and wine list. Reservations accepted. One of a small chain based in Ormond Beach, Florida. Also see the listing below.

Stonewood Grill & Tavern (Winter Springs), 5246 Red Bug Lake Rd., Winter Springs, FL. 57.8 mile drive from The Villages. 407-699-4444. D. Opens at 4 PM Fri. to Sun. and 5 PM Mon. to Thurs. Located between Altamonte Springs and Oviedo. Well known for their Oak Grilled Filet and Pork Chops with Apple Chutney. Entrées like Lobster Ravioli in Sherry Cream Sauce is also a favorite. Large variety of seafood like Emerald Bay Crab Cake Platter also available. Dinner entrées range from $9 to $29. Casual dress. Full bar and wine list. Reservations accepted. One of a small chain with restaurants in North Carolina and Florida only. Also see the listings above.

Straub's Seafood (Altamonte Springs), 512 E. Altamonte Dr., Altamonte Springs, FL. 48.7 mile drive from The Villages. 407-831-2250. L/D. On route 436 just east of I-4. Open daily 12 noon to 9 pm. (Saturday from 4:30 pm.) at this location. Specializing in fresh seafood since 1984. Fresh fish such as Rainbow Trout, Northern Scrod, Atlantic Salmon, Black Grouper and Yellow Fin Tuna range $17 to $25. Smaller six ounce portions of Scrod, Flounder, Mahi Mahi and Salmon range $13 to $17. Pastas and grilled items, as well as a full assortment of shellfish, range $15 to $40. Full entrées include salad and vegetable. Daily specials such as "Early Bird" at $11 and "Daily Catch" are also offered. Drink specials also. Full bar. Manuel Antigua and Vidal Rodriguez, owners. Another location is in Orlando (see below).

Straub's Seafood (Orlando), 5101 E. Colonial Dr., Orlando, FL. 60.4 mile drive from The Villages. 407-273-9330. D. No lunch. Open daily at 4:30 pm.; 12 noon on Sunday. Early Birds Specials (before 6 pm) include Salmon, Dolphin Fish, Shrimp Scampi, Fried Clam Strips, Coconut Shrimp, 6 oz. Top Sirloin, Chicken Alfredo and more are just $10.95, beverage included. Oysters, Scallops, Shrimp, Crab Legs, Crab Cakes and Lobster (Whole Live or Tails) always on the menu. A variety of cooking methods can be selected: Mesquite Grilled, Fried, Broiled, Blackened, Marinaded, and Pan Sautéed. Full bar with $7 specialty and frozen drinks and $8-9 martinis. Manuel Antigua and Vidal Rodriguez, owners. Another location is in Altamonte Springs (see above).

Stumpknockers On The Square, 110 W. Main St., Inverness, FL. 30.7 mile drive from The Villages. 352-726-2212. L/D. Open from 11 AM. Closed Mondays. Open Christmas Day. On the square. Stuffed Flounder, Gater Steaks, Mahi Mahi, Grouper, Snow Crab Legs, Flounder, Frogs Legs and Fillet of Fish. Famous for its Catfish. Steaks and Prime Rib also available. Entrées range from $10 to $18. Reservations accepted. Full bar. Tim Channell, owner. Also a location in Dunnellon (see page 2).

Review: (from Gloria K. 5/08) Interesting, cozy, hunting camp décor. Good service. We ordered the specialty, Fried Catfish Dinner ($10). Very tasty. Other seafood items looked very good. Big, varied menu, with reasonable prices. Meal for two with two beers was $28.
Q=4 S=4 V=4 Total=12 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Sunset Sam's Fish Camp, 6000 W. Osceola Parkway, Kissimmee, FL. 64.2 mile drive from The Villages. 407-586-1101. L/D. Open from 11:30 AM to 11 PM daily. Located in the Key West atrium of the Gaylord Palms Resort. A combination restaurant and entertainment venue. Grilled Pork Tenderloin ($22), Grilled Florida Mahi-Mahi ($25), Seared George's Bank Sea Scallops ($25), Grilled Organic Salmon ($26), Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes ($27), Fisherman's Stew ($29), Crispy Whole Yellowtail Snapper ($31) and Certified Angus NY Strip Steak ($34) are just some of the upscale fish and meat offerings. Mussels from Prince Edward Island also featured. Nightly entertainment during diner. Full bar and wine list. Reservations accepted. Also see Villa de Flora, below. Gaylord Entertainment Corp. of Nashville, TN., operator.

Sweet Tomatoes (Altamonte Springs), 474 West SR 436, Altamonte Springs, FL. 47.0 mile drive from The Villages. 407-869-5550. L/D. Located on Semoran Blvd. just west of I-4. Open from 11 AM to 9 PM daily; Sunday from 9 AM. This may be the world's largest salad bar. About 50 items for you to make a custom salad. Caesar Asiago, Orange with Cashews, Chicken Salad, Poppyseed Coleslaw, Broccoli with Noodles, Dijon Potato Salad and Tuna Tarragon Salad are just some of the salads offered in a buffet style. Wide variety of soups like Chicken Noodle, French Onion, Minestrone, Pinto Bean, Clam Chowder as well as Chilis and Stews are also offered. A few pastas like Macaroni & Cheese, Garlic Alfredo and Spaghetti and Meatballs might be on the bar too. Known for their muffins, as well as desserts. One price buffet with senior discount. Large chain including "Souplantation" brand under Garden Fresh Restaurant Corp. with about 110 locations, concentrated in Florida but headquartered in San Diego, CA., started in 1978.

Tamboras Grill Café, 1568 Maguire Rd., Ocoee, FL. 43.9 mile drive from The Villages. 407-877-7171. L/D. Open from 11:30 AM daily except Sunday. Located just south of W. Colonial Dr. (SR 50) near the Turnpike Exit 91. Formerly Giuseppe's Restaurant. Contemporary American cuisine with an award winning Latin flair. Dinners are semi-a-la-carte including two sides like Beans and Rice, Fried Plantains, Garlic Smashed Potatoes, Sweet or White Potato Fries or Seared Vegetables. Side salads are $2 extra. Entrées include Island Salmon, Snapper a la Criolla, Island Pork Roast, Churrasco, Latin Stir Fry Chicken, Grilled Pork Chop, Blackened Mahi, NY Strip Steak or Island Shrimp and range $14-20 each. Specialties of the house include Shrimp Mofongo (from the Dominican Republic), Quinoa Crusted Pan Fried Chicken Breast, Shrimp Fettuccine Pasta, Cornmeal Crusted Florida Snapper, Portbello Marsala Chicken Pasta, Shrimp Stew and Mojo Chicken and range $13-20. Lunch offerings include Grilled Chicken Club Wrap, Muzzarella Tuna Wrap, Grilled Chicken Tostada, Tamboras' Cuban Panini and various Burgers run $8-9. Homemade desserts like Espresso Crème Brûlée ($7) and Arroz con Leche ($6) are offered. Beer and wine only. 2008 Foodie Critic's Choice winner for "Best Latin American Restaurant" in the Orlando area by The Orlando Sentinal. Occasional discount coupons on their website. Vladimir Curiel, owner.

Taverna Opa, 9101 International Dr., Orlando, FL. 59.1 mile drive from The Villages. 407-351-8660. L/D. Open 11 AM to 11 PM daily and to 2 AM on Friday and Saturday. Located on I-Dive near Sand Lake Rd. on the 2nd level of Pointe Orlando. The dinner atmosphere is upbeat and includes Belly Dancing Shows and Zorba Dancers with a DJ. This authentic Greek Fest in the tourist area of Orlando serves lunch and dinner daily offering both American Steaks and Seafood as well as traditional Greek dishes. Some of the meat entrées include Lamb Chops, Chicken Artichoke, Lemon Chicken, Oak Grilled Pork Loin, Rib Eye Steak, Filet Mignon and 22 oz. Porterhouse Steak ranging from $15-36. Chicken, Beef, Shrimp or Lamb Kebobs run $17-18 each. Fish entrées include Key West Snapper, Tuna, Salmon, Chilean Seabass, Grouper and Shrimp run $19-24. Traditional Greek cuisine includes Kleftiko (Lamb in Parchment), Roasted Lamb (Marinated), Mousaka (Beef and Eggplant), Pastitsio (Macaroni & Lamb), Stuffed Peppers, Boureki and Lamb Shank ranging $13-19 each. Large Greek, Cretan, Marouli or Opa Salads range $7-9. Soulvaki and Gyro Platters are also offered. Full bar including Greek beer and wine. Lunch specials run 11 AM to 3 PM. Happy Hour 2 for 1 prices offered 3 to 6 PM. Reservations accepted. Validated parking with a purchase of $25 or more. 2008 Foodie Reader's Choice runner-up for "Best Greek Restaurant" in the Orlando area by The Orlando Sentinal. Ekaterina Karachalias and George Papachristopoulos, owners. 4 other locations in south Florida.

Ti Amo!, 12 SE 2nd Ave., Gainesville, FL. 64.0 mile drive from The Villages. 352-378-6307. D. Located where the Sovereign Restaurant once occupied just east of Main St. Open 6 days per week from 4 PM. Closed Sunday. Best described as a Mediterranean Restaurant with a decidedly Greek influence. Many dishes are available in half or full portions which allow patrons to sample two dishes at the price of one full meal. These include such entrées as Sautéed Gulf Shrimp, Roasted Georgia Quail, Braised Lamb, Oxtail or Pork Shank, Moussaka, Chermoula Hanger Steak, Lamb Skewers, Seafood & Chicken Paella and Duck Leg Confit ranging $11-18 for full portions and $6-10 for half portions. Other specialties include Coriander Salmon, 8 oz. Beef Filet, Artomoro Tempeh Gyros and Scallops with Bucatini Pasta ranging $18-21 for full portion only. Dishes are semi-a-la-carte. Soups such as Gazpacho or Seafood and appetizers like Crispy Calamari, Pan-Seared Blue Crab Cakes, Ouzo Steamed Mussels, Smoked Octopus, Crispy Artichokes, Seafood Ceviche, Escargot and even Steak Flatbread can add $6-10 to the meal. Variety of desserts offered too. Reservations accepted. Happy hour before 7 PM. Full bar. Named Best New Restaurant in 2008 by Florida Trend Magazine. Noted Gainesville restauranteurs, Robert and Tara Gill, owners. Also owns Mildred's Big City Food and New Deal Café, see above.

Timpano Chophouse, 7488 West Sand Lake Rd., Orlando, FL. 55.4 mile drive from The Villages. 407-248-0429. L/D. Open from 11:30 AM daily. Dinner starts at 4 PM. Located on SR 482 near Dr. Phillips Blvd. "Rare Steaks, Tall Martinis and Swank Scenery" is their slogan. Formerly known as Timpano Italian Chophouse. Meat selections include 8 or 12 oz. Filet, 12 oz. NY Strip, 14 oz. Bone-In Filet, 16 oz. Double Bone Pork Chop, 20 oz. Rib Eye and a 16 oz. Veal Chop ranging $22-36. Seafood entrées include Rock Shrimp and Lobster Ravioli, Shrimp Fra Diablo, Seafood Cioppino, Roasted Salmon, Ahi Tuna and Pan Seared Striped Bass all ranging $18-25. Veal and Chicken dishes range $18-21 and include Piccatta and Marsala styles. Pasta dishes are also available with Bolognese, Shrimp or Plum Tomato Sauce for $14-19. Side dishes are extra ranging $5-8 each. $10 flatbreads are also offered for the lighter appetite. Soups, salads and appetizers round out the menu. Patio dining available. Smart casual attire. Reservations accepted. 18% gratuity added for parties of 8 or more. A large wine list is offered with bottle selections running $24 to $410 and by the glass choices at $6-18. Full bar for cocktails. Happy Hour 4 to 7 PM. The Starlight Lounge has live piano entertainment Tuesday through Saturday from 6:30 PM on.Michael Rodriguez, executive chef; Imane Tazi, managing partner. An e-Brands restaurant with another location in Tampa, FL. but headquartered in Orlando, FL.

Tony's Seafood Restaurant, 597 2nd St., Cedar Key, FL. 86.0 mile drive from The Villages. 352-543-0022. L/D. Open from 11:30 AM daily. Located at the corner of 2nd and D Streets in an 1880 building. Popular with the locals who swear by Tony's award winning Clam Chowder ($4-8), often touted as the best chowder in the south. The menu includes a Low Country Boil of Crab, Clams, Shrimp and Sausage, Teriyaki Shrimp Skewers, Grilled Tilapia, Seafood Scampi and Steamed or Grilled Seafood Combinations among others ($16-30). Lunch menu offers Seafood Sandwiches, Burgers and Fish Platters ($8-20). 22% gratuity added for parties of 6 or more. Beer and wine only. Quart ($15), Half Gallon ($30) and full Gallon ($50) buckets of the light brown Clam Chowder to take home are available too. Eric Jungklaus, owner.

Valencia Garden, 811 W. Kennedy Blvd., Tampa, FL. After an incredible 82 years of operation, sadly, this restaurant closed its doors in early June, 2009. The location has been sold.

Van Der Valk Fine Dining and Bistro, 4543 E. Windmill Drive, Inverness, FL. 34.9 mile drive from The Villages. 352-637-1140. L/D daily from 10 AM. From SR 44 West out of Wildwood, merge right with US 41 North in Inverness; 1/2 mile past downtown keep right following US 41 North at N. Florida Ave.; travel 3 miles to "LakeSide Golf Club" (watch for billboard on right and continue 1/2 mile more) and turn right on E. Windmill Drive and right again at the T, past the condos to the club house. Enchanting dining room in a candlelit setting located at the 18th hole of the LakeSide Golf & Country Club in an upscale housing development. The bar area is inviting also. A number of appetizers such as Smoked Salmon ($12), Beef Carpaccio ($12), Brie Encroute ($12), Crab au Gratin ($12) and their signature Lobster Bisque ($7.50) precede the various entrées such as Chicken with Spinach or Picatta ($19), Duck Chipotle ($22), Pangasius & Asparagus ($20), Blackened Tuna ($23), Veal Oscar ($19), Surf & Turf ($34) and Dover Sole ($36.50). Pastas such as Chicken & Bacon Alfredo ($17), Shrimp Pasta ($20), vegetarian dishes and mini-entrées like Veal Oscar ($15) and Blackened Tuna ($16), found at the end of the menu, are also available. Desserts are also varied with Crème Brûlée, Sorbet and New York Style Cheesecake (all $6-7) finishing the dinner. A 3-Course Dinner Special for $26.50 is usually available. A more casual menu is available in the bistro and rear porch. Full bar and large wine list. Happy Hour before 7 PM. Reservations accepted. Remco van Asdonk and Christopher Watrouse, culinary chefs. Developer owned, headquartered in Kissimmee, FL.

Review: (from Rich C. 11/07) Wonderful restaurant! Inviting, well lit dining room with crisp tablecloths, tulip centerpieces and comfortable chairs made for a nice start to our evening. Cocktail specials from 5-7 PM allowed 2 for 1 house wines. We started with a fabulous Lobster Bisque Soup that was uniquely presented on a bamboo tray with sliced bread. She ordered Pangasius & Crab Casserole. Our server, Shawn, explained that Pangasius is a mild whitefish from Indonesian waters. It resembles a large catfish and small fat shark all at the same time. The taste was similar to sole. I had the Pork Tenderloin with Apples. Both were prepared and presented very nicely and arrived on hot plates. For dessert, she indulged in a German Chocolate Shell Cake and I enjoyed a good, but not great, Crème Brûlée. Our waiter excelled at the 3 Ps: Professional, Polite and Prompt. He did an excellent job of taking care of our entire Gourmet Group. With a chocolate martini, 2 house wines, 2 soups, 2 entrées, 2 desserts and a Benedictine to wash it all down, the bill was a reasonable $86 before tax and tip. This is an excellent alternative to upscale Ocala and Villages restaurants.
Q=5 S=5 V=5 Total=15 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Review: (from Ellen H. 1/08) This is our second visit here. We brought our good friends this time. We started with 2 for 1 happy hour drinks. A special 3 course dinner was ordered by one gentleman: Seared Ahi Tuna Steak appetizer with Ginger Sauce, plus a Small Filet Mignon entrée and a tall Sorbet Parfait, all for $26.50. Three of us ordered the wonderful Lobster Bisque ($7.50) which is shredded lobster meat in a brown homemade soup base. Side House Salads ($4.75) were crisp and tasty. I ordered the Petite Pangasius Fish with Shrimp entrée ($13.50) and my better half had the Veal Bourgogne ($16.50), pan fried veal cutlet sitting over pepper linguine with alfredo sauce. Choice of potato came with each entrée. Again excellent service by our favorite waiter and a nice table by the large window. The keyboard player filled the room with soft familiar favorites. The room is elegantly decorated and spotlessly clean. This out of the way dining room is now our favorite fine dining establishment. Never crowded, softly lit and friendly, prompt professional service. All this at $62 for two meals before tax and tip without dessert. Our friends are hooked now too.
Q=5 S=5 V=5 Total=15 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Review: (from Dan K. 2/08) This was our second visit in 8 days. Eight of us in our Dine-Out Group enjoyed a Friday evening and we took another couple here just 8 days later. Exceptional preparation, taste and value. Petite servings of many entrées are available. We enjoyed a Spinach Artichoke Dip, small soup (served hot), Petite Panagasius and a Veal Bourgogne. With two desserts it came to $54 before t&t for two. Special treatment was given for my birthday. We really enjoyed this.
Q=5 S=5 V=5 Total=15 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Review: (from Rich C. 08/08) Four of us arrived early, so we stopped at the bar for a cocktail first. The ladies both ordered a "flight of martinis" (6 - three ounce martinis from the large martini list). They certainly enjoyed them and carried the rack of 6 glasses to the table as other patrons were joking in amazement. All ordered the Cup of Lobster Bisque under my recommendation. It is thick and creamy with a slight paprika flavor. Most ordered Caesar Salads which were fresh, cold and chopped for easy eating. One order of Veal Oscar, one of Smoked Duck and one of Steak & Roasted Filet were enjoyed. I had the new Filet with Smoked Salmon covered in Cheese. It was very unusual, with the smoky fish giving it a strong flavor. The table bread with olive oil was flavorful and warm. 3 coffees and two shared desserts (one Chocolate Puffs and one Cheesecake) finished our meal. The guys had two wines each as the girls navigated their "flights". Our service by Natalia was excellent. She checked on us often. We all enjoyed our dinners as we have done so before. This is a new menu and their 3 course "value dinner" is still available. All tolled, $178 for 4 before t&t (excluding those 12 flying martinis). It's hard to beat this lovely restaurant.
Q=5 S=5 V=5 Total=15 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Review: (from Dennis G. 12/08) Nice atmosphere, very good service, appreciative staff, manager visited our table to inquire of how everything was. Lobster Bisque was excellent. I had the small portion of Steak & Roasted Filet. Beef tenderloin and filet mignon. It was great but definitely not small. I ordered it medium and it came medium rare but that was fine. Wife had Pangasius & Asparagus. She enjoyed it very much. Approximately $70 and that was with drinks, a shared dessert and a 20% tip.
Q=5 S=4 V=4 Total=13 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Review: (from Ellen H. 12/08) Such a nice quiet restaurant compared to so many we have been to in The Villages. I ordered a "Holiday Martini" to start. Gosh, so sinful during this holy season! Their Lobster Bisque is very unusual here. It contains a swirl of sherry. I tried the Pangasius with Crab Meat. That was also delightful. He had the big bowl of Bisque and the Salmon Wellington (salmon wrapped in a puff pastry and baked). No salads or dessert this trip. With two glasses of wine (at 1/2 price) our total was about $75. Heidi was our server and I watched her closely as she quietly approached our table and waited to speak so as not to interrupt our conversation. We always appreciate the fine, professional service here. Can't wait to come back.
Q=5 S=5 V=5 Total=15 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Review: (from Howard H. 3/09) About a 40 minute drive. Based on the good reviews, our Dine-Out Group opted to try it. We were not disappointed. However, the menu has changed and some of the items that I looked forward to, were no longer available. Still the menu was extensive. We were promptly seated at 6:30 PM. The decor is very elegant. The typical white tablecloth service. Happy hour is no longer 2 for 1 but is now reduced priced drinks. Still OK! I ordered the Pepper-Encrusted Filet Mignon of 2 medallions ($25.75). Very spicy. I think next time I would request a bit less spice! She opted for the Salmon Wellington ($22.50). Very tasty and light, in a pastry shell with lobster sauce. She also had a cup of Onion Soup ($4.50). I had a glass of the house Merlot ($3.50). She had a Pinot Grizio ($7.75). Coffee for 1 ($2.25). The bill with tax $70.23, plus tip. Our server, Melissa, was most pleasant and attentive. If not for being a little pricey, I would have given this restaurant a solid 15!
Q=5 S=5 V=3 Total=13 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Review: (from Rosalind G. 3/09) Two couples from our Gourmet Group went on Tuesday evening at 6:00 PM. We had the entire dining room to ourselves for the first 45 minutes. Our waitress, Kristin, was very knowlegeble and helpful. She asked many questions about the Villages. I ordered the small Steak & Roasted Filet from the petite menu, he had the full size Veal Oscar. My steak was more rare than the medium I ordered but still very tasty. His veal was delicious. We ordered side salads, which were very tasty and plentiful. The other couple had Veal Bourguignon and Duck l'Orange. They enjoyed their meals. Cheesecake and fresh strawberries finished the meal. Our total for the 2 dinners, 2 salads, 1 wine and the dessert was $48.50 before tax and tip. Well worth the 50 minute trip.
Q=5 S=4 V=5 Total=14 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Review: (from Carol M. 4/09) With 3 other friends, we went on a Friday evening. 45 minutes from The Villages and we arrived for happy hour. 4 cocktails came to $10 not including tip, so we decided to have another. It was very quiet there and all 4 agreed it was a nice change from The Villages hussle and bussle. They serve half size entrées, so we ordered 2 Steak & Roasted Filet Mignon and 2 Veal Oscar which is breaded veal. Each was excellent and tasty. The service was very polite and value was terrific. All of us would definately go back. It was a very enjoyable evening. No complaints. We were 4 happy campers.
Q=5 S=5 V=5 Total=15 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Review: (from Rich C. 7/09) It's been a while since we were here last and their menu has changed. Some of our favorites, like Salmon Wellington, Steak & Roasted Filet, Thai Duck and Veal Bourgogne are gone. Luckily the Lobster Bisque is still available. Ashley was our server and she was adorable with the whitest teeth I have ever seen showing through her smile. My better half ordered a French Martini ($6) and I had the house Chardonnay ($5). She also had the small Lobster Bisque ($4.50) and a Caesar Salad ($5). She ordered the small Steak & Carpaccio ($17) entrée also. I selected the 3 Course Special ($26.50) plus a Caesar Salad. The main dish was a fried Chicken Cordon Bleu. Although it was OK, I would not order the Cordon Bleu again. Our food was nicely prepared and the surrounding are always lovely here. Ashley did a nice job of keeping us informed and served. With 3 drinks and my included Cheesecake dessert, that we split, the total before t&t was $74. It's about a 45 minute drive from The Villages and well worth the effort - always. We'd ask for Ashley by name next time.
Q=5 S=5 V=4 Total=14 out of 15. Return=Yes.

The Venetian Room, 8101 World Center Dr., Orlando, FL. 61.9 mile drive from The Villages. 407-238-8060. D. Open from 6 PM to 10 PM, Tuesday through Saturday only. Located in the Caribe Royale Resort at SR 535 and SR 536. The copper-clad dome is the center of attraction in this luxury old-world dining room with impressive chandeliers. Dover Sole, Filet Mignon, Rack of Lamb, Veal Chop, Confit of Duck and Whole Maine Lobster are the specialties of the house here. Noted for their Lobster Bisque and Duck Salad. Foie Gras, Lump Crab Cake and a Duet of Carpaccio are offered as appetizers. Grand Marinier Soufflé and Tahitian Crème Brûlée are just two of the final acts. Entrées range from $30-36. Large wine list and full bar. Often voted best romantic dinner location. Reservations accepted and advised. Dress code. Jackets suggested. 2007 runner-up for "Best Romantic Restaurant" in the Orlando area by WESH-2 News A-List. 2008 Foodie Reader's Choice runner-up for "Best Romantic Restaurant" in the Orlando area by The Orlando Sentinal. Khalid Benghallen, executive chef.

Victoria & Albert's, 4401 Grand Floridian Way, Orlando, FL. 53.6 mile drive from The Villages. 407-939-3463. D. Open from 6 PM to 10 PM daily. Located in the Grand Floridian Hotel. Named after the famous London museum. Considered Disney's finest restaurant. Lavish décor throughout. World-class contemporary cuisine. Menu changes daily. Dinners start with an "Amuse Bouche". Some past offerings include Monteray Abalone with Baby Spinach, Roasted Muscovy Duck Breasts, Braised Kobe Short Ribs with Roasted Mushrooms, Guinea Fowl with Asparagus, Colorado Herb Crusted Lamb, Ivory King Salmon Over Roasted Beets, Veal Tenderloin, Alaskan Sable over Artichokes and Fava Beans, Florida Pompano with Wild Red Rice, Cervena Venison Carpaccio and Pheasant Roulade with Lump Crab. Prix Fixe, 7 Course Menu about $125 per person; $60 per person additional for Wine Pairing. Reservations required. Full bar and extensive wine list. Dress code, jackets required for gentlemen. 2 hour dining experience, minimum. Table attended by both a waiter and waitress. Harpist nightly. Flowers for the lady; check for the gentleman! 2008 Foodie Critic's Choice winner for "Best Romantic Restaurant" in the Orlando area by The Orlando Sentinal. Scott Hunnel, chef de cuisine; Erich Herbitschek, pastry chef. Disney owned.

Villa de Flora, 6000 W. Osceola Parkway, Kissimmee, FL. 64.2 mile drive from The Villages. 407-586-1114. B/L/D. Open from 6:30 AM to 10 PM daily. Located in the St. Augustine atrium of the Gaylord Palms Resort. Chefs stationed at six kitchens invite you to sample their culinary creations. A seasonal market-inspired menu features meals from the countries of the Mediterranean. Large moderately priced buffet restaurant that changes menu frequently. Mondays and Friday is Italian Buffet, Tuesday and Saturday is Spanish Buffet, Wednesday and Sunday is French Buffet and Thursday is Greek Buffet. Sunday Brunch offered from 12 to 3 PM weekly. Dessert section also included. Occasional entertainment during diner. Full bar and wine list. Reservations accepted. Validated parking. 2007 runner-up for "Best Brunch" in the Orlando area by WESH-2 News A-List. 2008 Foodie Reader's Choice runner-up for "Best Brunch" in the Orlando area by The Orlando Sentinal. Also see Sunset Sam's Fish Camp, above. Gaylord Entertainment Corp. of Nashville, TN., operator.

Review: (from Bob E. 2/09) I stayed a few days in the hotel and ate breakfast ($20), lunch ($20) and dinner ($30) there. All were buffet style, included coffee and were excellent. The setting in the atrium was very pleasant and the service attentive. The breakfast offering was complete, with lots of fresh fruit and a chef to make omelettes and eggs. Lunch had a very large selection of salads, meats, fish, veggies, pizza, freshly baked rolls, and desserts. Everything was at the right temperature. Dinner was even more lavish. I would gladly go back.
Q=5 S=4 V=5 Total=14 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Vintage On 5th, 114 NE 5th St., Crystal River, FL. 48.8 mile drive from The Villages. 352-794-0004. D. Open daily from 5 to 9 PM except Sundays and Mondays when they are closed all day. Located in the historic area of downtown Crystal River in a 1940's renovated church, one block off the main highway. Specializes in fresh fish and hand-cut Angus beef. Some items are regional Southern dishes, while others are Continental favorites. The restaurant's interior is warm pine-covered, intimate quiet dining. Porch and courtyard areas are also available. Small dishes (appetizers) include Fried Green Tomatoes, Baked Brie, New Zealand Mussels and Jerk Shrimp at $6-9 each. Their She Crab Soup at $5-7 is well known in the area. Dinners are semi-a-la-carte which include their House Salad and usually a side dish. Entrées include Vintage Mac & Cheese made with Penne and Goat Cheese, Shrimp & Grits with Portabella Mushroom Sauce, Stuffed Chicken Breast with Gouda Cheese, Sesame Soy Glazed Ahi Tuna with Wasabi Cream Sauce and Veggie Pesto Pasta that range $13-19 each. Higher priced meals include Pan Fried Black Grouper, Grouper Mignon, Pan-Seared Sea Scallops, Mediterranean Pasta with Shrimp, Frenched Veal Chop, Angus Beef Tenderloin with Balsamic-Mustard Baste, Angus Ribeye or NY Strip, Pan-Seared Duck Breast and Rack of New Zealand Lamb. These range $21-32 each. Final course offerings include Crème Brûlée, Chocolate Lava Cake A-La-Mode, Banana Fritters, Rocky Road Chocolate Mousse, Key Lime Pie and even an Old-Fashioned Root Beer Float, all at $6 each. Beer and wine only. 25 classic and reserve wines sold by the glass. Extensive wine list offers 140 fairly priced selections. 2009 Wine Spectator Magazine award for "Inexpensive Wine Pricing". Wine tasting and tapas available at the wine bar during the summer, 5-7 PM. Reservations accepted and recommended weekends. Rodney and Jennifer Carr, owners.

Review: (from Rich C. 10/09) The building looks new but was built in 1940 and has been "recovered". From the moment we walked in, you could tell this was going to be a nice experience. They had a list of reservations by 5:30 PM, but they had a table available in the corner in Jodi's station. The buss boy brought water before we were settled in the large arm hairs. The room is very inviting. Light pine floors, dark pine ceilings and two of the four walls paneled in wood too. Nice wine theme tapestries and prints adorned the walls. A linen tablecloth is covered by a paper liner and the utensils were wrapped in, uh oh!, a paper napkin? This restaurant deserves, at least, a linen napkin. A varied, reasonably priced wine list had many selections. My better half had an Argentine Navaro Correas Malbec ($6) and I had an Italian Pinot Gregio ($5.50). They both arrived promptly in thin, tall, white wine glasses (even the red wine!). Both were excellent selections. She started with Fried Green Tomatoes (which were really red ones) and I tried the She Crab Soup at $6 and $5 respectively. The soup was unbelievable. Thick, tasty with lots and lots of crab. I could have had a gallon. The meals came with a nice green House Salad that included strips of roasted red peppers, as well as diced tomatoes. To stay within budget, she ordered the Shrimp & Grits with Mushroom Cream Sauce ($18.50). I had their signature Vintage Mac & Cheese ($16.50). Hers was excellent with Smoked Gouda Grits and 8 large shrimp. She could eat only half before feeling full. Mine was like penne alfredo with chicken slices. Tasty but rich. I too took home half. We were too full for dessert. My second wine was as nice as the first. Good service from both our server (who forgot to tell us about the special Escargot Wellington appetizer unfortunately) and the pleasant buss boy. Total was $63 before t&t. Be careful here, entrées start at $15 but run all the up to $32 for the Veal Chop. Most main dishes are about $23. It's worth a drive here. Because of the paper napkins and paper tablecloth plus pricey entrées, we can't give this restaurant a perfect score, but it came close.
Q=5 S=5 V=4 Total=14 out of 15. Return=Yes.

Willow Tree Café, 205 East First St. (near Magnolia), Sanford, FL. 50.4 mile drive from The Villages. 407-321-2204. L/D. Open 11 AM to 9 PM daily, except Monday is 11 AM to 3 PM only. Located in the historic section of Sanford. Also known as Hollerbach's Willow Tree Café. Noted for German food such as Knockwurst, Bratwurst, Mettwurst, Weisswurst, Nürnberger and LeberKäse. Also on the menu is Sauerbraten, Eisbein and Himmel und Erde (Potatoes and Apples). Most meals range $7-16. Beef Filet with Kräuter Butter runs $22. A large selection of Pork, Veal and Chicken Schnitzel are featured daily from $14 to $23 that also includes two side dishes. Entertainment Saturday and Sunday afternoon and evening; as well as Thursday and Friday nights. Very large selection of German beer (bottle and on tap), Lager, Pils, Dopplebock, Riesling, Mosel, Schnapps, Asbach, as well as a full bar. Reservations accepted. 2008 Foodie Reader's and Critic's Choice winner for "Best German Restaurant" in the Orlando area by The Orlando Sentinal. Some special events, like Octoberfest, Fashing and monthly Chef's Night Out, require advance reservations - call ahead. In business here since 2001. Theo and Linda Hollerbach of Kyllburg/Eifel, Germany, owners.

Yacht Star Ship, 603 Channelside Dr., Tampa, FL. 89.6 mile drive from The Villages. 813-223-7999. L/D. Located between the St. Pete Times Forum and the Florida Aquarium, next to the Channelside shopping and entertainment complex. Valet and self parking is available at the Tampa Port Authority Parking Garage. An $8 million yacht with 5 dining rooms which can accommodate up to 600 passengers. The ship offers Sunday Brunch, Daily Lunch and Daily Dinner Cruises. The Sunday Noon Time Brunch consists of breakfast items like Eggs, Bacon, Sausage, Cheese Blintzes as well as lunch items like Chicken Alfredo, Seafood Paella, Baked Snapper and Hand Carved Prime Rib. Desserts are included. Brunch price with 2 hour cruise is $45 pp. The Daily Noon Time Lunch selections may include Wild Mushroom Meatloaf, Tuscan Chicken, Floribbean Mahi Mahi or Grilled Pork Chop. Lunch price with 2 hour narrated cruise is also $45 pp. The Daily Dinner selections may include those listed for lunch plus Braised Lamb, Roasted Trout and Center Cut Filet. Appetizers and desserts are also included with dinner. Dinner price with 2 1/2 hour cruise including entertainment and dancing is $80 pp. Dinner departures for weekdays sail about 7 PM, Sundays about 5 PM and on Saturdays about 5 PM, as well as 9 PM. Florida residents may receive a 25% discount on most cruises by booking online. Also, a 2 for 1 offer may be available from June 1 to September 30 each year for most sailings. The ship cruises Ybor and Garrison Channels (not Tampa Bay or the Gulf waters) for smooth sailing. Yacht sails rain or shine; the dining room is full enclosed and air conditioned. Dress code enforced, especially footwear. Rates subject to sales tax, gratuities and fuel surcharge. Reservations accepted and required. Photo ID required for will-call tickets. Company also operates Yacht Star Ship II sailing from Clearwater, FL. Full bar and wine list. Rated 3 diamonds by AAA. Started business in 2002. Starship Cruise Lines, LLC. (of Houston and Tampa), owners and operators.

Review: (from Wendell S. 3/08) My wife and I were there as part of a wedding party. The food was served as a buffet and was fair. The boat went around the Tampa Bay for about 2-1/2 hours including the area in downtown Tampa. The ship was crowded with most people on the upper deck. We had a good time but cost was a little high. It was nice but now we have been there.
Q=3 S=3 V=2 Total=8 out of 15. Return=No.

Yamato Japanese Steak House and Sushi Bar (Gainesville), 526 NW 60th St., Gainesville, FL. 64.3 mile drive from The Villages. 352-332-4466. L/D. Located east of The Oaks Mall off SR 26 (Exit 387 of I-75). Lunch served Wednesday through Friday 11:30 AM to 1:45 PM. Dinner served 4:30 PM to 10:30 PM daily and 12 noon to 9 PM on Sunday. Teppanyaki dinners of Steak, Chicken, Shrimp, Lobster, Salmon, Tuna, Scallops and various combinations are offered. Also Tempura Udon, Chicken Katsu and Yaki Udon are specialties. $5 coupon available on their website. Full bar. Yoon & Hui Hwang, owners. Another Yamato Steak House has opened in Ocala (see page 2).

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Yankee Skipper, 2330 South Ripple Path, Crystal River, FL. 55.2 mile drive from The Villages. 352-795-0505. L/D. Open Thursday to Saturday only for dinner. Closed summer months. The Other Place serves lunch daily except Monday & Tuesday. Located in Ozello, Florida. Take SR44 from Wildwood west to Crystal River, turn left onto US19/98 and go south 2 miles, right on Ozello Trail for 6 miles, then left on Waterman Dr. for 1/2 mile and right on Ripple Path (dirt road) past St. Martin's Marina to the 2 story building on the left. Dining room is upstairs. White board menu brought to your table. Limited selections such as Homemade Beef and Sausage Lasagna, Chicken Marsala, Garlic Shrimp Scampi, Homemade Crab Cakes, Black Angus Prime Rib au Jus, Stuffed Pork Loin and Grouper Fillet. Entrées range $13 to $20 each. Soup or salad included but other options such as Cabbage Crunch ($6) is also available. Desserts such as Key Lime Pie, Carrot Cake and Kaluha Cheese Cake are offered. Beer and wine available. Reservations accepted. Robert Scott Vassallo, owner.

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Review: (from Colene M. 10/08) We got there about 4:30 PM and we were the only people there for the entire meal but the waitress, Joeleen, said they get busy in the evening. They are only open 3 days a week and closed in the summer. Food was out of this world - great! Not cheap but really good food. We had Clam Chowder and ordered the optional Cabbage Crunch which was cabbage, cashews, sunflower seeds and their own secret dressing which was wonderful. I had the Garlic Shrimp Scampi that was great. He had Crab Cakes which he said were terrific. The only "little thing" that was wrong, is we asked for more bread and I think she forgot it. We both had a glass of wine (no full bar here) with a cup of coffee and pot of tea. Total bill before t&t was $54. Really enjoyed it here, not an everyday event but it was GREAT!
Q=5 S=4 V=4 Total=13 out of 15. Return=Yes.

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The Yearling Restaurant, 14531 East CR 325, Cross Creek, FL. 52.5 mile drive from The Villages. 352-466-3999. D. (From 5 PM Thur. & Fri.; from Noon Sat. & Sun. Closed Monday through Wednesday.) Located halfway between Gainsville and Ocala and named after Marjorie Rawlings novel. Florida "cracker cuisine", like Gator Tail, Frog Legs or Fried Green Tomatoes for the first course; Catfish, Crawdads or Soft Shell Crab for the main course; Okra, Cheese Grits or Hushpuppies on the side. Venison, Quail and Oysters can also be found on this very unexpected menu. Popular since 1952. "Back road" camp lodge atmosphere but not exactly "back road" prices. Discount coupons occasionally available on their website. Frequent guitar player, Willie Green, singing the blues on weekends. Full bar. Robert Linebaugh is chef, Junior Jenkins, cook and Robert Blauer, owner.

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Review: (from Mary Jo B. 3/07) It was a "forgetable" culinary experience that didn't meet our dining expectations. We had Fried Green Tomatoes that had a thin coating of something over thickly sliced, bitter green tomatoes. I had the Fried Catfish entrée for $13.95 with sides of coleslaw and cheese grits. There was no presentation style and the taste and texture of all three items were plain and ordinary. He had the Fried Alligator entrée for $17.95 that tasted like McDonald's chicken strips. We passed on the $5.50 slice of Sour Orange Pie.
Q=2 S=3 V=1 Total=6 out of 15. Return=No.

Review: (from Ellen H. 5/07) We've eaten here about two years ago and remember a good meal. This time we got "sticker shock" at the high prices. The Venison and Frog Legs were not that great. The entertainment was interesting however. We got talked into Sour Orange Pie. Interesting but nothing to write home about. Wine by the glass was expensive too. Dinner for two, $59. Sorry but at these prices we can find better food in Gainsville or Ocala.
Q=2 S=2 V=1 Total=5 out of 15. Return=No.

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Zante Caféneo, 13 N. Safford Ave., Tarpon Springs, FL. 94.8 mile drive from The Villages. 727-934-5558. L/D. Also known as just Zante Café. Closed Sunday and Monday and between 4 and 5 pm other days. Located on the "Pinellas Trail" (former rail bed) just off E. Tarpon Ave. in the historic downtown area (not the docks area) of Tarpon Springs. Opened 2002. A very eclectic menu of cuisine presented in a kitschy environment jammed packed with nostalgic collectibles. The emphasis is on New Orleans Style meals such as Frogs Legs, Cajun Chicken, Paneed Tilapia with Crawfish, Seafood Fra Diablo, Crawfish Etoufee, Creole Jambalaya and other Cajun specialties. French (like Steamed Mussels), Italian (like Past Prima Vera) and Greek (like Red Drum Fish) entrées are also sprinkled on the menu especially at lunch. Reservations accepted and recommended on weekends. Entrées range from $15-23 with appetizers $8-9. No liquor license, so bring your own wine. Family run. Brad Sullivan, chef; Liz Sullivan, owner.

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DISCLAIMER: This website is not, per se, an endorsement or criticism of any dining establishment. As such, it does NOT represent the views of the webmaster or the club's leaders. Instead it gives factual information about area restaurants and posts member's individual reviews of their own experiences. Your experience and rating may differ, so we encourage you to patronize the establishment yourself and if you are a club member, write a review so others can share your observations. Photos on this page may not represent the exact food offered at the adjacent establishment and prices may vary. All content Copyright © 2006-2009 The Villages Gourmet Club. All rights reserved. No part may be included in another website or advertisement.