Local Directory
Restaurants, bars, venues, and more across the region
Pisces Rising
Mount DoraFresh seafood with a view of Lake Dora. Creative preparations and a lakefront setting that's hard to beat in this part of Florida.
Prima Italian Steakhouse
The VillagesModern Italian steakhouse at Brownwood Paddock Square in The Villages serving hand-cut steaks, Italian classics, and fresh seafood, with weekend brunch and a Bloody Mary bar.
Prime + Ember
The VillagesUpscale signature steakhouse at Eastport Town Center featuring prime cuts, fresh seafood, and hand-crafted cocktails, with a rooftop bar overlooking Central Lake and live music.
Puddle Jumpers Lakeside Grill & Bar
TavaresLakeside dining with front-row views of Lake Dora and the seaplane base -- which means you might watch a plane land while you eat your burger. The seafood is fresh, the drinks are strong, and the outdoor patio is where you want to be at sunset.
Red Crab - Juicy Seafood (Eustis)
TavaresCajun-style seafood restaurant in Eustis serving boiled seafood combos, crab legs, shrimp, and crawfish served in seasoned boil bags.
RJ Gator's Florida Sea Grill & Bar
The VillagesFlorida-themed bar and grill at Lake Sumter Landing with seafood, burgers, and tropical cocktails. The outdoor seating puts you right in the middle of the nightly entertainment scene.
Rocco's Pizza & Cafe
Crystal RiverItalian restaurant in Crystal River serving pizza, pasta, fresh seafood, and chicken alongside a made-to-order sushi bar, with house-made desserts like cannoli and tiramisu.
Salt Shack on the Lake
ClermontWaterfront restaurant on Lake Minneola offering island vibes, wild-caught seafood, and a sandy beach area perfect for families, with live music Thursday through Sunday.
Salty Dogs Steamer and Bar
InvernessFamily-owned seafood restaurant on Courthouse Square in Inverness serving hand-cut steaks, shrimp, crab, and lobster alongside Cuban-pressed sandwiches.
Shed
Crystal RiverLively waterfront tiki bar and grill on the Homosassa River serving seafood baskets, gator bites, and shrimp tacos, with a 'cook your catch' option for anglers and live music on weekends.
Ski Beach Bar and Grill
LeesburgWaterfront restaurant on Lake Harris in Leesburg offering American favorites and fresh seafood with stunning lake views, plus a Sunday brunch buffet.
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 Blue Gator Tiki Bar & Restaurant
DunnellonSouthern-style seafood with stunning river views and a non-pretentious tiki atmosphere. The extensive outdoor seating area overlooks the Withlacoochee River, and the menu leans into fresh prawns, fish, and local specialties at fair prices.
The Crab Plant
Crystal RiverThe freshest seafood straight off the boats in Crystal River. As close to the source as you can get.
The Freezer Tiki Bar
Crystal RiverStarted as a literal bait freezer attached to a seafood market, now it's one of the most beloved dive bars on the Nature Coast. Cash only, peel-and-eat shrimp, and the kind of Old Florida atmosphere you can't manufacture. Bring cash.
The Troff
Mount DoraOld-school eatery specializing in oysters, seafood & other American fare, plus pitchers of beer.
Tiki West Raw Bar and Grill
TavaresA family-owned seafood spot and oyster bar that puts a Caribbean twist on Southern classics. The raw bar is the main event, but the whole menu delivers. Casual enough for a Tuesday lunch, fun enough for a Saturday night out.
Tipsy Tarpon
Crystal RiverCasual waterfront seafood spot on the Crystal River with open-air covered seating, a tin-roof tiki bar, live music, and menu favorites like redfish tacos and steamed shrimp.
Whale's Tale Fish House
Mount DoraA Mount Dora locals' favorite that specializes in seafood done simply and well. The Maryland crab soup is a standout, and the no-fuss atmosphere keeps people coming back week after week.