Local Directory — The Villages, Ocala & Central Florida
Restaurants, bars, venues, and more across the region
Ocala Downtown Diner
OcalaBurgers, steaks & shakes served in a relaxed eatery that has classic diner decor.
Shadrach's Fiery Furnace
Mount DoraFamily-owned wood-fired pizza restaurant in downtown Mount Dora, started as a mobile pizza oven touring art shows and festivals since 2011, now serving Neapolitan-style pies from an authentic oven.
Stumpknockers on the Square
InvernessA downtown Inverness institution serving fresh Florida seafood and American classics on the historic Courthouse Square. The oyster po'boys and catfish are local favorites, and the casual vibe matches the charm of the surrounding downtown.
The Bean and Bubble
Crystal RiverCharming cafe inside Citrus & Sage Bookstore in downtown Brooksville serving exceptional espresso drinks with homemade syrups, started from a flamingo-pink trailer by founder Trish.
The Bistro
Crystal RiverRestaurant on Main Street in downtown Brooksville serving lunch and dinner.
The Black Rabbit Bookbar
ClermontSpooky, fantasy-inspired cafe and bookshop in downtown Clermont offering specialty handmade coffee and tea drinks alongside a curated collection of dark literature, horror, and mystery books.
The Deli Llama, Cafe.- Espresso & Sandwiches
Mount DoraCreative cafe in downtown Mount Dora serving crafted pressed sandwiches with house-made meats and espresso by day, transforming into The Llama Lounge evenings with small bites, beer, wine, and sake cocktails.
The Gathering Cafe Downtown Ocala
OcalaBeloved downtown Ocala coffee house and breakfast cafe with a cozy atmosphere, killer espresso drinks, and fresh-made cinnamon rolls and quiche. Open weekday mornings and worth the visit.
The Ivy House Restaurant
Williston**Temporarily closed due to fire.** Charming downtown restaurant in a restored historic building offering salads, sandwiches, wraps, and daily specials.
The Lazy Maid Crêperie
BrooksvilleHighly rated French creperie in downtown Brooksville serving both sweet and savory crepes in a charming setting with indoor and outdoor seating, open for breakfast and lunch.
The Mount Dora Bistro
Mount DoraFrench-inspired neighborhood bistro in downtown Mount Dora offering classic bistro fare, curated dining experiences, afternoon tea service, and a spectacular French wine list in a warm, refined setting.
The Salted Fry
Mount Dora100% gluten-free European-style frite shop in downtown Mount Dora serving Belgian-style fries, fresh-made dipping sauces, panini sandwiches, and their own bourbon-cooked ketchup.
Turners Kitchen + Bar
LeesburgA chef-owned restaurant in the heart of downtown Leesburg, occupying a building that once housed Turner's Bakery in the 1940s. The menu is creative without being fussy, and the quality is a pleasant surprise for a small-town spot.
Waffles & Cream
Mount DoraCreative dessert shop in downtown Mount Dora serving fresh Liege waffle bites, mini donuts, scoop and soft-serve ice cream including dairy-free Dole options.