In Dunnellon: A new restaurant is opening by the bridge on 484 where the Rainbow meets the Withlachoochee. There have been a series of restaurants in this location, but we are thinking that the new one might just be there for quite a while. The have remodeled the building and will offer a variety of choices on the menu. You can sit inside or outside and the views of the river are great. I suspect they have a beer drinking sports enthusiast crowd on weekends.
Daytona/Ormond/Flagler Beaches: Last year we discovered our favorite restaurant in Flagler Beach-Flagler Fish Company. There are no reservations and you can expect a wait on the weekends-even at lunch. However, the wait is well worth it! Dinners come with homemade potato chips and a fish dip that catches our interest. Some of us love the asiago potato side as well. Choose any fish or shellfish and prepared any way and topped with any sauce (or not). I adore the fish tacos. The chipotle mayo finds it way on most of the sandwiches. Marcia's crabcake sandwich was quite good as well. Lobster bisque is made with a medium brown roux-very tasty. Last year we had the brownie-heated and covered in ice cream and whipped cream and chocolate and caramel sauces. One brownie feeds a table of 6 easily.
Dish on US 40 near I-75. American and Italian food served tapas style. We liked the lobster bisque, but the consistency was more like a pudding-very tasty though. The baby back ribs were sticky and sweet but quite tasty. Both the portabella pizza and the mixed cheese pizza got our approval. The menus online are quite different from our lunch menu. They also feature a gluten free menu. Deserts were fabulous-we liked the red velvet cake, the chocolate bomb (a mousse thing) and the chocolate cake thing. Our server encouraged us to try the chocolate espresso cup thing next time.
Ocala: Finally, a restaurant in Ocala that catches our interest. Braised Onion at 754 NE 25th Ave. "American comfort food with an attitude" is their claim. We liked the shrimp and grits (we call it prawns and polenta for our European guests). It is almost as good as Marcia's. Likewise the Mac and Cheese-combination of several cheeses-don't expect yellow-and sprinkled with panko crumbs. I had it as a side with green beans and made it my dinner focus. The grilled mahi went home with me for a kick butt fish sandwich the next day. Charlotte liked the pecan crusted salmon enought to order it two nights in a row. We will have the fried green tomatoes again. In short, everyone was quite pleased with their food. It must be said that they were out of beef short ribs-possibly a sign that they are too good to last past lunch. The wine list was good. Bread comes with braised onions that set the tone for the meal-stick to your ribs food done well. Coconut cream pie!!!!
LaCuisine in downtown Ocala has become our favorite special night out dinning. Order anything with a sauce. For those who like foire gras, I am told that it is quite good here. I will order the poached eggs on bits of bread in a sauce with a French name I cannot remember much less spell, but my taste buds remember and I will order it again. We have had lamb shank and pork shank with a sauce that we would lick the plate in public for. The veal is superb, and the duck with cornbread dressing is worth a repeat performance. The portions are American, so we do the take home in a box thing. If you want to try the desserts you will have to take home your entree leftovers-way too much food and wasting that sauce would be a sin. I loved my caramel crepes. They were described as Breton, but they were white flour. (I see that they feature sweet and savory crepes on Wednesdays.) The cream puffs were gigantic-easily 3-4 people could share one. Our friend managed her warm chocolate cake with ice cream and whipped cream on her own and the couple with the warm apple pie thing were all smiles. Do I even need to say that the wine list is quite good? We look forward to the next special occasion here.
KG
Wednesday, July 11, 2012
Monday, April 19, 2010
Visitor Information
Welcome to Our Riverhouse!
There are numerous opportunities to enjoy our two local rivers, the Rainbow River and the Withlacoochee River. The crystal clear Rainbow River starts at the Rainbow Springs State Park on US 41 where the headwaters are located. The park is open daily and offers areas in which you can canoe, swim, snorkel, picnic, observe nature at it’s finest, or just plain relax. Rainbow Springs State Park hosts a wide variety of special events throughout the year. The KP Hole County Park.is located on SW 190th Avenue Road and has been in service for over 50 years. The Park offers canoe and tube rentals as well as other amenities, and is the only boat ramp on the Rainbow River for motorized vessels.
Kay's Comments: You can launch our kayaks from our river steps and kayak up to the State Park or downriver-free. There is only one place where you can swim in the park, but once out of the waters of the State Park there is no problem launching yourself into the water and floating downriver with the kayak.
If you wish to explore the State Park you can kayak or drive. Admission is $1 per person. It is a pleasant little park and there is a nice hiking trail that brings you through the woods and fields on the other side of the river from our house.
You can also float or kayak down river to the bridge in Dunnellon-where the Rainbow becomes the Withlacoochee and either kayak back (plan a whole day for this) or arrange for someone to pick you up with the car.
Kay's Comments: You can launch our kayaks from our river steps and kayak up to the State Park or downriver-free. There is only one place where you can swim in the park, but once out of the waters of the State Park there is no problem launching yourself into the water and floating downriver with the kayak.
If you wish to explore the State Park you can kayak or drive. Admission is $1 per person. It is a pleasant little park and there is a nice hiking trail that brings you through the woods and fields on the other side of the river from our house.
You can also float or kayak down river to the bridge in Dunnellon-where the Rainbow becomes the Withlacoochee and either kayak back (plan a whole day for this) or arrange for someone to pick you up with the car.
Behind the Dunnellon Area Chamber of Commerce office is the confluence of the Rainbow River and the Withlacoochee Rivers and the site of the city beach. This park offers a sandy beach as well as a playground area and picnic tables. For the fisherman the Withlacoochee River and Lake Rousseau offer exceptional large mouth bass fishing, which is why we are the "Bass Capital of Florida". The Gulf of Mexico is only 20 minutes away heading west on CR 40, or by water through the Withlacooche River. The Withlacooche can be accessed from the City Boat Dock on US Hwy 41. Motor boat rentals are located across the street at Angler's Resort http://www.anglersresort.us/
I am hearing that Anglers Resort/Blue Gator Pub is the happening place in Dunnellon for music and socializing on the weekend.
I am hearing that Anglers Resort/Blue Gator Pub is the happening place in Dunnellon for music and socializing on the weekend.
Marion County Short History:
Marion County history begins before recorded civilization. Evidence of early man is found by remnants of pottery, weapons, jewelry and bones. The largest artesian water system (by flow) in the world, Silver Springs has been the site of discoveries of the traces of early man as well as the mastodon, mammoth and saber toothed tiger.
The Timucua Indians were one of the earlier peoples to inhabit the area. The Spanish explorer, Hernando de Soto, mentioned their culture in his writings about his expedition in 1539. The largest of their villages was called "Ocali", however, its exact location in Marion County is unknown. By the mid 1700's, the Timucuas had been decimated due to contact with the Europeans and disease.
In 1821, Spain ceded Florida to the United States, and settlers immediately began to pour into this frontier area. The Seminole, a name applied to peoples of the Lower Creek from Georgia and later the Upper Creek of Alabama inhabited the new territory. Conflicts between the United States and the Indians were found even before the First Seminole War in 1817. Fort King, located near SE 36th Avenue and Fort King Street in Ocala, became an important military post, first occupied in 1827. The fort was at the center of events that led to the Second Seminole Indian War in 1835. With the Indian Removal Act in 1830, the United States embarked on the removal of the Indians from Florida.
In an effort to control the Seminole, the Armed Occupation Act of 1842 encouraged white settlers to move into Florida, offering 160 acres free to eager settlers. Many early pioneers came from South Carolina, where their local revolutionary war hero was General Francis Marion "The Swamp Fox". He led a guerrilla band that helped keep the British from conquering the South.. For this reason, on March 25, 1844, Marion was chosen as the name of the county. Florida became a state in 1845, and Marion County was one of the first names confirmed at the first meeting of the assembly. Marion County was quickly the hub of a rapidly growing state. Tobacco, rice, sugar cane, cotton and cattle flourished. In 1846 the county seat was platted and named "Ocala".
The latter part of the 1800's saw increased growth in the area. Between 1871 and 1875 the citrus industry began in Marion County and saw the development of the "Parson Brown" and "Pineapple" oranges. The discovery of phosphate prompted another land boom which is commemorated every year by "Boomtown Days" in Dunnellon. By 1890 Ocala was one of the largest towns in Florida. Silver Springs had become an international tourist draw and the first Florida tourist attraction.
The rich grazing, rolling hills, and year round pastures not available in other states, contributed to the development of the Thoroughbred industry in Marion County. The first Thoroughbred farm, "Rosemere", was established in 1935. In 1956, an unknown three year old named "Needles" won the Kentucky Derby and the Belmont Stakes, and Marion County became a focus for the racing world. Marion County boasts over 1,000 farms and training centers including approximately 450 Thoroughbred farms, and is home to nearly 50 different horse breeds. In 1999, Ocala/Marion County was recognized by the U.S. Department of Agriculture census as the "Horse Capital of the World" and as having more horses and ponies than any other county in the nation. Nearly 29,000 residents are employed in the county's Thoroughbred industry alone. This unique rural character combined with the Thoroughbred industry puts Ocala/Marion County in the elite company of Lexington, Kentucky; Newmarket, England; and Chantilly, France as the major Thoroughbred centers in the world. The Florida Thoroughbred industry has to date produced 41 North American champions, 18 Breeders' Cup champions and 6 Kentucky Derby winners, including 1997 winner Silver Charm. Florida-bred Affirmed captured the Triple Crown (Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, and Belmont Stakes) in 1978. Florida bred Skip Away was the 1998 North American Horse of the Year and Florida-Bred Beautiful Pleasure was named the North American Champion Older Female in 1999. In addition, Marion County is the home of many other champions, including locally bred Rugged Lark, a two-time winner of the coveted American Quarter Horse "Super Horse" title.Marcia photo graphed that owl in our backyard.
Area Interests
Rainbow River and Springs http://www.floridastateparks.org/rainbowsprings/
Dunnellon boasts Florida's second largest artesian spring, Rainbow Springs, which feeds roughly 500 million gallons of crystal clear water each day into the scenic Rainbow River. With a year-round temperature of 68 to 72 degrees, the waters of this river are a popular destination for anyone interested in boating, tubing, canoeing, swimming, diving or snorkeling. Dunnellon Area
Surrounded by two beautiful rivers and steeped in a proudly preserved history, Dunnellon embodies Old Florida character and charm. What began as seven small farming communities boomed in 1889 with the discovery of phosphate in the area. A period of prosperity followed and the town developed a railroad, school, post office, electric lights, connected water and a wooden bridge over the Withlacoochee River. The Greater Dunnellon Historical Society has preserved many of the remains and visitors today can stroll oak-lined streets in Dunnellon's nationally registered historic district while viewing authentically restored nineteenth century homes. In the heart of Dunnellon on US 41 is the Historical Railroad Depot. The Depot is owned and operated by the Greater Dunnellon Historical Society. The Depot houses a museum and country store. It is open on Saturdays during special events.
Community Events for Dunnellon can be found at the link below. Look for the schedule at the bottom of the hompage. http://www.riverlandnews.com/
Average temps for Dunnellon
Travel in Florida
Traveling by car in Florida is enigmatic to new arrivals as most of the major roads, interstates and 4 lane highways, run north and south in the lower part of the state and only two major roads travels east-west in the "panhandle" from Jacksonville to Pensacola, and I-4 between Tampa and Daytona. Travel from coast to coast, Gulf to Atlantic, can take more time than you might expect and when travel requires passage through a major city such as Orlando or Tampa. Travel time can balloon during certain times of the day and often without notice.
The graphic below attempts to provide you with some sense of travel ranges and time needed to destinations you might choose. Some general time estimates are provided below the map.
Gainesville- 45-55 minutes
Crystal River- 20- 25 minutes
Ocala- Westside areas 15-20 minutes Eastside areas 20-25
Orlando- 2-2.5 hours
Daytona Beach- 2- 3 hours (two lane roads most of the way)
Tampa- 1.5 to 2.5 hours ( Sunshine Parkway 589 faster, I-75 to I-275 slower, much more traffic)
Tallanssee 2-3.5 hours depending on routes and timing of travel
Further afield:
Miami area - 5-7 hours with wide variances depending on routes, time of day, and the unexpected delays
Pensacola 6- 8 hours~ chosen routes can vary times.
Very far afield.
Key West- 9-14 hours~ depending on day of the week and timing of travel. Please note: Miami to Key West can take 3.5 -5+ hours... really! If you are planing this trip-- make hotel reservations first, try to avoid Orlando and Miami during morning and evening traffic (usually 6-9 AM and 4-7 PM), prepare to spend $$$ (all consumables are brought in by trucks) and take your patience with you. The road from Homestead to Key west is mostly a two lane road with high traffic load-- new construction, toursim and commercial traffic on this small roadway creates havoc without notice!
Key West- 9-14 hours~ depending on day of the week and timing of travel. Please note: Miami to Key West can take 3.5 -5+ hours... really! If you are planing this trip-- make hotel reservations first, try to avoid Orlando and Miami during morning and evening traffic (usually 6-9 AM and 4-7 PM), prepare to spend $$$ (all consumables are brought in by trucks) and take your patience with you. The road from Homestead to Key west is mostly a two lane road with high traffic load-- new construction, toursim and commercial traffic on this small roadway creates havoc without notice!
Places to visit within 1 hour or less travel time
Dunnellon and Beyond Out and about in the local area- One hour travel or less!
The Dunnellon area offers a variety of eco-tourism opportunities for visitors of any age to explore. Both water sports, and numerous trails, and local history abound in Dunnellon area for you to enjoy. With its crystal clear springs, native vegetation and wildlife, scenic nature trails and tranquil gardens, there is plenty to explore in the natural beauty typical of the Nature Coast region.
Withlacoochee State Trail-walking/biking trail
http://www.dep.state.fl.us/gwt/guide/regions/crossflorida/trails/with_state.htm
Silver Springs- just east of Ocala includes a water park and musical venues that include country and hillbilly music artists. Concert schedule and park information are provided at the link below.
http://www.silversprings.com/
Crystal River
Crystal River Manatee Tours Seasonal during the winter months-- experience with the West Indian Manatee from a boat or on a snorke or scuba tour.
A classic... mermaid shows, river cruises, kayak, snorkel, scuba http://www.floridastateparks.org/weekiwachee/default.cfm
Gainesville
Performing Arts Center http://performingarts.ufl.edu/
Natural History Museum and Butterfly Rainforest http://www.flmnh.ufl.edu/
I think this is too excellent to be missed. One admission for both the butterfly rainforest and the museum. The butterflies will light on you, especially if you wear a scent. A little hand lotion will do the trick. The museum is good for a small local muesum. I love the ethnographic exhibits. Some Native American exibitions.
Shopping and Dining
Kay's Comments: Homosassa Springs has manatees in captivity all year long-not as exciting as seeing them free...On a cold (Florida cold is anything below 60F) day it is worth the 20 min drive to Crystal River to see the Manatee swim under the bridge. We will leave you with a Florida Gazateer (ordinance survey) and highlight the routes to take to various sites like this.
The Dunnellon area offers a variety of eco-tourism opportunities for visitors of any age to explore. Both water sports, and numerous trails, and local history abound in Dunnellon area for you to enjoy. With its crystal clear springs, native vegetation and wildlife, scenic nature trails and tranquil gardens, there is plenty to explore in the natural beauty typical of the Nature Coast region.
Withlacoochee State Trail-walking/biking trail
http://www.dep.state.fl.us/gwt/guide/regions/crossflorida/trails/with_state.htm
Silver Springs- just east of Ocala includes a water park and musical venues that include country and hillbilly music artists. Concert schedule and park information are provided at the link below.
http://www.silversprings.com/
Crystal River
- Dining Great seafood restaurants available, fresh seafood markets http://www.allmenus.com/fl/crystal-river/-/all-cuisines/
- Florida souveniers
- Sightseeing
- Gulf Fishing Boats and Guides http://www.crystalriverflorida.com/fishing_guides.htm
Crystal River Archaeological State Park- pre-Columbian, Native American site has burial mounds
http://www.floridastateparks.org/crystalriver/default.cfmCrystal River Manatee Tours Seasonal during the winter months-- experience with the West Indian Manatee from a boat or on a snorke or scuba tour.
Spring Hill, FL
Weeki Wachee Springs State Park- A classic... mermaid shows, river cruises, kayak, snorkel, scuba http://www.floridastateparks.org/weekiwachee/default.cfm
Gainesville
Performing Arts Center http://performingarts.ufl.edu/
Natural History Museum and Butterfly Rainforest http://www.flmnh.ufl.edu/
I think this is too excellent to be missed. One admission for both the butterfly rainforest and the museum. The butterflies will light on you, especially if you wear a scent. A little hand lotion will do the trick. The museum is good for a small local muesum. I love the ethnographic exhibits. Some Native American exibitions.
Shopping and Dining
- Gainesville Dining Guide http://gainesville.diningguide.com/
- Gainesville Shopping Guide http://gainesville.retailguide.com/
Kay's Comments: Homosassa Springs has manatees in captivity all year long-not as exciting as seeing them free...On a cold (Florida cold is anything below 60F) day it is worth the 20 min drive to Crystal River to see the Manatee swim under the bridge. We will leave you with a Florida Gazateer (ordinance survey) and highlight the routes to take to various sites like this.
Places to visit >1 hour up to 3 hours travel time
Tarpon Springs http://www.spongedocks.net/
Originally established in 1884 as an exclusive winter resort for wealthy northerners, Tarpon Springs, Florida earned its name from the Tarpon fish that is abundant in the waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Sponges were found and harvested by many Greek families that moved to the area in the early 1900s. Great Greek food found here! Costa's is our personal favorite.
Costa's has the advantage of a parking lot as well as good food. Our favorite way to enjoy Costa's is to order from the appetizer menu-like tapas, and share. Marcia loves the gyro.
Tampa and St. Petersburg
St Petersburg
The Pier http://www.stpetepier.com/
One of the areas most recognized waterfront landmarks. Discover the Peir Aquarium, The Columbia House Restaurant, and unique gifts and souvenirs at The Pier's specialty shops.
Salvador Dali Museum http://www.salvadordalimuseum.org/
Housing the largest collection of Salvador Dali works in the world, the museum offers a regularly changing exhibit of the legendary surrealist artist's works
Orlando http://www.orlandoinfo.com/
Orlando is the hub city of the Orlando-Kissimmee, Florida, Metropolitan Statistical Area, colloquially known as "Greater Orlando" or "Metro Orlando". The area encompasses four counties and is the amusement park mecca for the world. Over 40 parks are in the four county area. Links to the parks are available at http://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g34515-Activities-c22-Orlando_Florida.html#TtD
Theme parks near Orlando
Home of the Disney Rat. If you adore overtired and overstimulated children, don't miss this one! However, I have been known to haunt the factory outlet stores and they just keep getting bigger and better.
Sea World http://www.seaworldorlando.com/orlando/default.aspx
Disney Megaplex http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/
Universal (2 parks) http://www.universalorlando.com/
International Drive is the shoppers paradise as it has a mall and outlet stores at either end for your bargain search. http://www.internationaldriveorlando.com/thingsToDo/shopping.asp
Daytonal Beach, Cape Canaveral and the Space Coast
Explore the spectacular canals through the 1000 Islands. The tidal marsh and inland waterways provide shelter to herds of manatee, bottlenose dolphin and a variety of coastal birds. Eco-tours leave twice daily near Cocoa Beach/Merritt Island area
Originally established in 1884 as an exclusive winter resort for wealthy northerners, Tarpon Springs, Florida earned its name from the Tarpon fish that is abundant in the waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Sponges were found and harvested by many Greek families that moved to the area in the early 1900s. Great Greek food found here! Costa's is our personal favorite.
Costa's has the advantage of a parking lot as well as good food. Our favorite way to enjoy Costa's is to order from the appetizer menu-like tapas, and share. Marcia loves the gyro.
Tampa and St. Petersburg Closely related in both history and culture, these two cities offer a variety of interesting venues.
Tampa-
The Florida Aquarium http://www.flaquarium.org/
Discover over 10,000 aquatic plants and animals which represents over 600 different species while at this aquarium that is among the top aquariums in the world.
The thing I love about this aquarium is the reef room. Sit in a rocker in front of a glass wall-just like being in a reef without the need for breathing equipment and fins. They also play calming music.
The thing I love about this aquarium is the reef room. Sit in a rocker in front of a glass wall-just like being in a reef without the need for breathing equipment and fins. They also play calming music.
Busch Gardens http://www.buschgardens.com/BGT2/
Famous rollercoasters to be found in this brewery/theme park
Ybor City in Tampa http://www.ybor.org/index.cfm?section=vs
Tampa's Ybor City, began its intriguing history when cigar makers settled here after a disastrous fire that drove the industry north from Key West. Today it is a National Historic Landmark District
I love Ybor City in the daytime, but avoid it particularly weenend nights. There is a tram that connects the aquarium with Ybor City and it is worthwhile from a parking perspective. A meal at the Columbia restaurant is always my goal in Ybor City, but my sister in law likes to pick up cigars as well.
I love Ybor City in the daytime, but avoid it particularly weenend nights. There is a tram that connects the aquarium with Ybor City and it is worthwhile from a parking perspective. A meal at the Columbia restaurant is always my goal in Ybor City, but my sister in law likes to pick up cigars as well.
St Petersburg
The Pier http://www.stpetepier.com/
One of the areas most recognized waterfront landmarks. Discover the Peir Aquarium, The Columbia House Restaurant, and unique gifts and souvenirs at The Pier's specialty shops.
Salvador Dali Museum http://www.salvadordalimuseum.org/
Housing the largest collection of Salvador Dali works in the world, the museum offers a regularly changing exhibit of the legendary surrealist artist's works
Orlando http://www.orlandoinfo.com/
Orlando is the hub city of the Orlando-Kissimmee, Florida, Metropolitan Statistical Area, colloquially known as "Greater Orlando" or "Metro Orlando". The area encompasses four counties and is the amusement park mecca for the world. Over 40 parks are in the four county area. Links to the parks are available at http://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g34515-Activities-c22-Orlando_Florida.html#TtD
Theme parks near Orlando
Home of the Disney Rat. If you adore overtired and overstimulated children, don't miss this one! However, I have been known to haunt the factory outlet stores and they just keep getting bigger and better.
Sea World http://www.seaworldorlando.com/orlando/default.aspx
Disney Megaplex http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/
Universal (2 parks) http://www.universalorlando.com/
International Drive is the shoppers paradise as it has a mall and outlet stores at either end for your bargain search. http://www.internationaldriveorlando.com/thingsToDo/shopping.asp
Daytonal Beach, Cape Canaveral and the Space Coast "The Beach " at Daytona is one of the most famous urban beaches of Florida and actually stretches about 25 miles through several adjoining towns. Daytona offers a casual "beach" atmosphere and many options for dining in town or on the beach. There is an historic district in Daytona which was recently designated when in 1995. The neighborhoods are a bit removed from all the hustle and bustle of the beach, hotel and raceway area.... which we liked. Lots of shops and restaurants are found along the inland riverway as well. http://www.visitflorida.com/listings/taggroup.daytona_beach/filtergroup.2
Daytona is great. Drive north on A1A to get to Flagler-less populated, but doesn't offer the drive on the beach option. BTW-find out when high tide is before leaving your car parked on the beach. Some towing companies make a good living from people who don't check the tide schedule and get cut off from car exits. Water and sand under a car on the beach is not friendly and very costly.
Daytona is great. Drive north on A1A to get to Flagler-less populated, but doesn't offer the drive on the beach option. BTW-find out when high tide is before leaving your car parked on the beach. Some towing companies make a good living from people who don't check the tide schedule and get cut off from car exits. Water and sand under a car on the beach is not friendly and very costly.
John F. Kennedy Space Center http://www.kennedyspacecenter.com/
For the scientists and child alike, this area provides and awe inspiring look at the history and future of the US and international space programs.
Very interesting. How often do you get to see space stuff?
1000 Island Boat Tours http://www.islandboatlines.com/index.htmlExplore the spectacular canals through the 1000 Islands. The tidal marsh and inland waterways provide shelter to herds of manatee, bottlenose dolphin and a variety of coastal birds. Eco-tours leave twice daily near Cocoa Beach/Merritt Island area
Food shopping
First place to hunt for something to eat is our pantry and freezers. They are constantly bulging. Dive in. There should be ample selection in the spice cabinets as well.
There are two groceries in Dunnellon that seem to meet our needs most of the time. I always enjoy going to the grocery and hardware stores when we travel. Culture resides there.
Winn-Dixie is closest to us. It has been recently renovated and has a better selection of things.
Sweetbay was renovated a few years ago. Also a good selection. You can find a local map in the house information book with these stores indicated.
Wal-Mart is convenient if you happen to need something else they have there. Actually, with Wal-Mart, political considerations set aside, I'm not sure why anyone would ever pack to come here. Just buy a few cheap outfits at Wal-Mart.
The best fresh seafood!
Joe has it. Sells it out of the back of his van parked behind the auto parts store in downtown Dunnellon on Friday and Saturday only. Shrimp, grouper, frogs legs, lobster tail, fresh clams, mussles. Just see Joe. Some of his stuff is frozen, but the shrimp is always fresh-from Mayport on the Atlantic near Jacksonville. The best!
On down the road towards Ocala or in Gainesville is Florida's best supermarket, Publix. There are several Publix stores on SR 200 outside of Ocala and many stores in Ocala as well.
In Gainesville there is a Fresh Market. Very upscale and in a shopping center with Upper Crust Bakery (French). Northwest Seafood is here too-very good selection of very good fresh and frozen seafood.
Note: Flying Biscuit restaurant is also in this shopping center along with Dorn's wines and cheezes.
Our wine store is in Gainesville-the ABC on Newberry Road. Don't bother with the others in Gnville, but the Ocala ABC on SR200 and the ABC in Crystal River on Rt 19 are good enough. Craig is our man at ABC in Gainesville on Newberry Rd/ SR 26.
Further afield we always stop at the Ravioli Company, Whole Foods and Discount Wines in Tampa.
KG
There are two groceries in Dunnellon that seem to meet our needs most of the time. I always enjoy going to the grocery and hardware stores when we travel. Culture resides there.
Winn-Dixie is closest to us. It has been recently renovated and has a better selection of things.
Sweetbay was renovated a few years ago. Also a good selection. You can find a local map in the house information book with these stores indicated.
Wal-Mart is convenient if you happen to need something else they have there. Actually, with Wal-Mart, political considerations set aside, I'm not sure why anyone would ever pack to come here. Just buy a few cheap outfits at Wal-Mart.
The best fresh seafood!
Joe has it. Sells it out of the back of his van parked behind the auto parts store in downtown Dunnellon on Friday and Saturday only. Shrimp, grouper, frogs legs, lobster tail, fresh clams, mussles. Just see Joe. Some of his stuff is frozen, but the shrimp is always fresh-from Mayport on the Atlantic near Jacksonville. The best!
On down the road towards Ocala or in Gainesville is Florida's best supermarket, Publix. There are several Publix stores on SR 200 outside of Ocala and many stores in Ocala as well.
In Gainesville there is a Fresh Market. Very upscale and in a shopping center with Upper Crust Bakery (French). Northwest Seafood is here too-very good selection of very good fresh and frozen seafood.
Note: Flying Biscuit restaurant is also in this shopping center along with Dorn's wines and cheezes.
Our wine store is in Gainesville-the ABC on Newberry Road. Don't bother with the others in Gnville, but the Ocala ABC on SR200 and the ABC in Crystal River on Rt 19 are good enough. Craig is our man at ABC in Gainesville on Newberry Rd/ SR 26.
Further afield we always stop at the Ravioli Company, Whole Foods and Discount Wines in Tampa.
KG
Facts We Wouldn't Know or Think About...
Some useful information from our exchangers
Use of Credit Card at Gas Stations
Many gas pumps require the postal zip code associated with the card. Since our visitors will not have our 5 digit zips associated with their cards, it is wise to be prepared with cash to pay for gas. This does not apply to Debit carts. They were reported to work without difficulty as they usually require your PIN number.
Another alternative would be to pre-load a WalMart cash card and use that for payment, but it would only be good at WalMart and Sam's Club gas stations (Murhpy Oil), and it is something of a hassle to have to figure out how much money you might use during your stay so that you don't leave money on the card. It is also a hassle to find WalMart or Sam's Club gas stations. We do have one here in Dunnellon and there are two in Ocala. Gainesville has none.
This is the only place we know that a zip code is required. Banks and Automatic Teller Machines (ATM) don't require them. Publix grocery stores always have at least one ATM-we call it the Bank of Publix, and most banks have drive through ATM's. Most stores and restaurants are quite happy to accept VISA and Master Card-some American Express and Discover.
We will add more to this entry as our guests inform us.
KG
Use of Credit Card at Gas Stations
Many gas pumps require the postal zip code associated with the card. Since our visitors will not have our 5 digit zips associated with their cards, it is wise to be prepared with cash to pay for gas. This does not apply to Debit carts. They were reported to work without difficulty as they usually require your PIN number.
Another alternative would be to pre-load a WalMart cash card and use that for payment, but it would only be good at WalMart and Sam's Club gas stations (Murhpy Oil), and it is something of a hassle to have to figure out how much money you might use during your stay so that you don't leave money on the card. It is also a hassle to find WalMart or Sam's Club gas stations. We do have one here in Dunnellon and there are two in Ocala. Gainesville has none.
This is the only place we know that a zip code is required. Banks and Automatic Teller Machines (ATM) don't require them. Publix grocery stores always have at least one ATM-we call it the Bank of Publix, and most banks have drive through ATM's. Most stores and restaurants are quite happy to accept VISA and Master Card-some American Express and Discover.
We will add more to this entry as our guests inform us.
KG
Eating
Some basics of Southern eating:
Vegitarians are likely to be challenged finding something to eat. Salads are usually safe, but vegetables are often cooked with pork.
Southern iced tea is by definition very sweet-loaded with sugar. In some places you will be asked if you want sweet or unsweet tea. You may also ask for half and half, which is still plenty sweet. Since Florida is a move down place, there are many restaurants that serve unsweet as standard. Just ask.
BBQ sauces come in sweet, mustard, hot, hotter. Ask your server.
A word about wine. During our travels in Europe, we were surprised at how good the house wines were. Do not expect that here. House wine is often below our basic standards. You can often get a decent wine by the glass, but go to the wine list.
In Dunnellon
There are only two places we recommend in Dunnellon. Don Peppe is our Mexican fave. It's merits are being convenient and having great salsa and chips and being cheap. It is pretty standard Mexican fare. Ice cold Dos Equis and frozen (plastic) mugs. There is often a wait for a table. Can also do take out.
Carmela's has credible Itallian food because she makes a good sauce. Do not expect much of the wine list. The salad bar is OK. It's merits are convenience and sauce. Also does take out.
I understand that Angler's Resort/ Blue Gator is the new hot spot, for pub fare. Check it out just before the bridge on 41 going south. Parking lot is usuall very full but you can find public parking across the street at the boatramp.
In Beverly Hills
Small Thai restaurant is in the group of stores with the Sheriff's office-coconut soup is very rich and very good. Other nice entrees as well.
Not so far from Dunnellon
Stumpknockers-a seafood restaurant on the Withlachoochee. Weekends are packed. Ambiance is Florida Cracker. Food is good-best if you stick with fried, but they can broil as well. Decent coleslaw and hushpuppies. They have alcohol-better beer list than wine list. Sweet tea!
http://www.stumpknockers.net/locations.html
In Williston
Ivy House-more genteel and refined Southern Cooking. Not open all the time. Call ahead. In an big old Florida Cracker house. Do not expect to get alcohol, and the iced tea will be sweet.
In Bronson
Bubba Que's-worth the drive for the food and ambiance. Authentic Southern BBQ with authentic southern BBQ seating. Some beer, but not much of a selection-basic Bubba and Budweiser beer. Sweet ice tea!
In Crystal River
Charlie's Fish House and Fish Market is the place on US 19. It is on a little canal where the fish and shrimp boats come in, so seeing pelicans on the back porch is almost certain. The fare is fairly simple-fried seafood with sides, but the shrimp and mullet is fresh. The wines are nothing to write about, so either go with the iced tea or a beer. Our guests who have asked that their shrimp be broiled were disappointed.
There is a good fresh seafood store right next to the restaurant. The Fish Market always has fresh caught local fish and shrimp plus seasonal delicacies.
Vintage on 5th- A fine dining experience offers an excellent variety of seafood, chicken, beef, and other specials done to perfection. Wine list is very good as is their menu and service . Reservations are a good idea as the place is popular as the only place for really fine dining. http://www.vintageon5th.com/
In Gainesville
In Gainesville we have so many favorites it will be hard to limit ourselves. Remember that Gainesville is a university town, so things can get crowded on weekend nights. Expect a line on weekend nights and game nights-especially if Gator basketball is going well.
Flying Biscuit-recently opened. The original has been on our list of favorite restaurants in Atlanta for years. The cookbook is in the kitchen, but they omitted their signature dish, creamy dreamy grits. Though they have lovely lunch and dinner entrees, I cannot resist the two eggs over easy with applewood smoked bacon and creamy dreamy grits. If you have a problem with the idea of grits, just think of it as polenta, but don't try to order polenta here. http://www.flyingbiscuit.com/
Paramount Grill-fine dining $$$$. Great wine list and excellent food. Also has a Sunday Brunch (not so many $$$) that is as good as dinner. Cliff, the chef, is the best crabcake maker we know. They work as an appetizer or for Sunday Brunch they appear with poached eggs and hollandase. Call for reservations especially on weekends and holidays. http://www.paramountgrill.com/
Sachel's Pizza-by the box or lunch of a slice and salad, Sachel's is THE place for pizza in Gnville. If you order by the pie, you have a choice of red, green (pesto) or white (ricotta) pizza and a long list of toppings. If by the slice, red is your choice with a long list of toppings. The salad is pretty magnificent with slices of granny smith apples and sunflower seeds. I always want it by the trough rahter than the big bowl. Calazone is not bad either. Probably decent wines and beers and tea-sweet or un. Ambiance, ambiance, ambiance! http://www.satchelspizza.com/
David's BBQ-For me David's is all about the onion rings. Cole slaw gets my approval as well. If you dine in, David's offers a wall of hot pepper sauces to enhance the BBQ sauce. I don't believe they serve alcohol. http://www.davidsbbq.com/
A BBQ comment here. For me, BBQ is all about pork and chicken. Why anybody bothers to order beef is beyond me. Ribs are good, but baby back ribs are better.
Sonny's BBQ-they are a chain that can be found all over the southeast. They are decent and worth doing. Inexpensive. Sweet tea.
Northwest Grille-located next to David's BBQ. Good seafood with a few other selections for the non-seafood eater. Marcia likes the grouper-generally fried, but the drunken grouper is quite good as well. I am rather fond of the sesame crusted tuna, but be sure to tell them to keep it on the sushi side if you like it that way. This is a place you can order seafood cooked most any way you like. Some decent wines, beer, unsweet tea. http://nwgrille.com/
Civilization-newly opened somewhat innovative simple menu and chalk board. We had shrimp burrittos and they were kick-butt. Nice decor in vintage building. Love the arched beamed ceilings. Good fresh squeezed lemonaide. http://www.welcometocivilization.com/invest/invest.html
Their food is better than their web site.
Ocala
Given the choice between eating in Ocala and Gainesville, Gainesville wins hands down. However, there are a few places we enjoy when we are hungry in Ocala.
Vicky's Grille-way on the other side (SE) of Ocala. We love their burgers and order the fries extra crispy. My second favorite is the taco salad. Lots of good stuff, especially for lunch. Apparently Vicky is too busy flippin burgers to do a web site.
5 Guys Burger-not so far from Dunnellon. This is a chain restaurant, but there are not many of them and they have a niche market. The burgers are excellent and fries fresh-note the bags of potatoes in the dining area. A regular order of fries is plenty for two people. Lots of choices of condiments for your burger. No alcohol. Actually, not much besides hamburgers, fries and hot dogs. http://www.fiveguys.com/home.aspx
Lakis Greek Restaurant-Greek salad for me, but not for vegetarians-ham involved. I do like the moussaka and Marcia like the gyro. Wine is not great.
I wouldn't go to Ocala looking for a fine food and dining experience. Go to Vintage on 5th http://www.vintageon5th.com/index.cfm in Crystal River or Paramount Grill in Gainesville
KG
Vegitarians are likely to be challenged finding something to eat. Salads are usually safe, but vegetables are often cooked with pork.
Southern iced tea is by definition very sweet-loaded with sugar. In some places you will be asked if you want sweet or unsweet tea. You may also ask for half and half, which is still plenty sweet. Since Florida is a move down place, there are many restaurants that serve unsweet as standard. Just ask.
BBQ sauces come in sweet, mustard, hot, hotter. Ask your server.
A word about wine. During our travels in Europe, we were surprised at how good the house wines were. Do not expect that here. House wine is often below our basic standards. You can often get a decent wine by the glass, but go to the wine list.
In Dunnellon
There are only two places we recommend in Dunnellon. Don Peppe is our Mexican fave. It's merits are being convenient and having great salsa and chips and being cheap. It is pretty standard Mexican fare. Ice cold Dos Equis and frozen (plastic) mugs. There is often a wait for a table. Can also do take out.
Carmela's has credible Itallian food because she makes a good sauce. Do not expect much of the wine list. The salad bar is OK. It's merits are convenience and sauce. Also does take out.
I understand that Angler's Resort/ Blue Gator is the new hot spot, for pub fare. Check it out just before the bridge on 41 going south. Parking lot is usuall very full but you can find public parking across the street at the boatramp.
In Beverly Hills
Small Thai restaurant is in the group of stores with the Sheriff's office-coconut soup is very rich and very good. Other nice entrees as well.
Not so far from Dunnellon
Stumpknockers-a seafood restaurant on the Withlachoochee. Weekends are packed. Ambiance is Florida Cracker. Food is good-best if you stick with fried, but they can broil as well. Decent coleslaw and hushpuppies. They have alcohol-better beer list than wine list. Sweet tea!
http://www.stumpknockers.net/locations.html
In Williston
Ivy House-more genteel and refined Southern Cooking. Not open all the time. Call ahead. In an big old Florida Cracker house. Do not expect to get alcohol, and the iced tea will be sweet.
In Bronson
Bubba Que's-worth the drive for the food and ambiance. Authentic Southern BBQ with authentic southern BBQ seating. Some beer, but not much of a selection-basic Bubba and Budweiser beer. Sweet ice tea!
In Crystal River
Charlie's Fish House and Fish Market is the place on US 19. It is on a little canal where the fish and shrimp boats come in, so seeing pelicans on the back porch is almost certain. The fare is fairly simple-fried seafood with sides, but the shrimp and mullet is fresh. The wines are nothing to write about, so either go with the iced tea or a beer. Our guests who have asked that their shrimp be broiled were disappointed.
There is a good fresh seafood store right next to the restaurant. The Fish Market always has fresh caught local fish and shrimp plus seasonal delicacies.
Vintage on 5th- A fine dining experience offers an excellent variety of seafood, chicken, beef, and other specials done to perfection. Wine list is very good as is their menu and service . Reservations are a good idea as the place is popular as the only place for really fine dining. http://www.vintageon5th.com/
In Gainesville
In Gainesville we have so many favorites it will be hard to limit ourselves. Remember that Gainesville is a university town, so things can get crowded on weekend nights. Expect a line on weekend nights and game nights-especially if Gator basketball is going well.
Flying Biscuit-recently opened. The original has been on our list of favorite restaurants in Atlanta for years. The cookbook is in the kitchen, but they omitted their signature dish, creamy dreamy grits. Though they have lovely lunch and dinner entrees, I cannot resist the two eggs over easy with applewood smoked bacon and creamy dreamy grits. If you have a problem with the idea of grits, just think of it as polenta, but don't try to order polenta here. http://www.flyingbiscuit.com/
Paramount Grill-fine dining $$$$. Great wine list and excellent food. Also has a Sunday Brunch (not so many $$$) that is as good as dinner. Cliff, the chef, is the best crabcake maker we know. They work as an appetizer or for Sunday Brunch they appear with poached eggs and hollandase. Call for reservations especially on weekends and holidays. http://www.paramountgrill.com/
Sachel's Pizza-by the box or lunch of a slice and salad, Sachel's is THE place for pizza in Gnville. If you order by the pie, you have a choice of red, green (pesto) or white (ricotta) pizza and a long list of toppings. If by the slice, red is your choice with a long list of toppings. The salad is pretty magnificent with slices of granny smith apples and sunflower seeds. I always want it by the trough rahter than the big bowl. Calazone is not bad either. Probably decent wines and beers and tea-sweet or un. Ambiance, ambiance, ambiance! http://www.satchelspizza.com/
David's BBQ-For me David's is all about the onion rings. Cole slaw gets my approval as well. If you dine in, David's offers a wall of hot pepper sauces to enhance the BBQ sauce. I don't believe they serve alcohol. http://www.davidsbbq.com/
A BBQ comment here. For me, BBQ is all about pork and chicken. Why anybody bothers to order beef is beyond me. Ribs are good, but baby back ribs are better.
Sonny's BBQ-they are a chain that can be found all over the southeast. They are decent and worth doing. Inexpensive. Sweet tea.
Northwest Grille-located next to David's BBQ. Good seafood with a few other selections for the non-seafood eater. Marcia likes the grouper-generally fried, but the drunken grouper is quite good as well. I am rather fond of the sesame crusted tuna, but be sure to tell them to keep it on the sushi side if you like it that way. This is a place you can order seafood cooked most any way you like. Some decent wines, beer, unsweet tea. http://nwgrille.com/
Civilization-newly opened somewhat innovative simple menu and chalk board. We had shrimp burrittos and they were kick-butt. Nice decor in vintage building. Love the arched beamed ceilings. Good fresh squeezed lemonaide. http://www.welcometocivilization.com/invest/invest.html
Their food is better than their web site.
Ocala
Given the choice between eating in Ocala and Gainesville, Gainesville wins hands down. However, there are a few places we enjoy when we are hungry in Ocala.
Vicky's Grille-way on the other side (SE) of Ocala. We love their burgers and order the fries extra crispy. My second favorite is the taco salad. Lots of good stuff, especially for lunch. Apparently Vicky is too busy flippin burgers to do a web site.
5 Guys Burger-not so far from Dunnellon. This is a chain restaurant, but there are not many of them and they have a niche market. The burgers are excellent and fries fresh-note the bags of potatoes in the dining area. A regular order of fries is plenty for two people. Lots of choices of condiments for your burger. No alcohol. Actually, not much besides hamburgers, fries and hot dogs. http://www.fiveguys.com/home.aspx
Lakis Greek Restaurant-Greek salad for me, but not for vegetarians-ham involved. I do like the moussaka and Marcia like the gyro. Wine is not great.
I wouldn't go to Ocala looking for a fine food and dining experience. Go to Vintage on 5th http://www.vintageon5th.com/index.cfm in Crystal River or Paramount Grill in Gainesville
KG
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)