Katie Belle's Dinner

[JSR22]

My husband and I ate dinner last night at Katie Belle's and it was terrific! The restaurant is beautiful decorated well and very nice comfortable furniture. The menu has been completely revamped and upgraded along with a new very good wine list. Entree's come with Caesar salad or salad bar, a side dish and warm crusty bread with herbed olive oil for dipping. Appetizers included clams casino, jumbo shrimp cocktail, seared ahi tuna, spinach artichoke dip and more, We split the ahi tuna and it was excellent. There are a lot of entrees. Several fish which can be prepared baked, broiled or blackened and accompanied with choice of several sauces, chicken, veal,
rack of lamb, lollypop pork chop, crab cakes, pasta dishes. We both had very well prepared fish. Side dishes were very good. Service was excellent and we will return often. A 100% positive experience. Don't listen to the bashers who have never been there. Go and enjoy!

[dewilson58]

:BigApplause:

[golfing eagles]

:bigbow:

Great review.

Of course, I'm sure we'll see some of "the usual suspects" posting how the "new" Katie Belle's was the worst dining experience of their lives, etc, etc, etc......:1rotfl:

[HoosierPa]

My husband and I ate dinner last night at Katie Belle's and it was terrific! The restaurant is beautiful decorated well and very nice comfortable furniture. The menu has been completely revamped and upgraded along with a new very good wine list. Entree's come with Caesar salad or salad bar, a side dish and warm crusty bread with herbed olive oil for dipping. Appetizers included clams casino, jumbo shrimp cocktail, seared ahi tuna, spinach artichoke dip and more, We split the ahi tuna and it was excellent. There are a lot of entrees. Several fish which can be prepared baked, broiled or blackened and accompanied with choice of several sauces, chicken, veal,
rack of lamb, lollypop pork chop, crab cakes, pasta dishes. We both had very well prepared fish. Side dishes were very good. Service was excellent and we will return often. A 100% positive experience. Don't listen to the bashers who have never been there. Go and enjoy!

Glad to hear you liked the new KB. I can't wait until we get back down to TV to see and experience it for ourselves. The Owners did not invest all that money to see it flop so hopefully there will be more people than not who like the change.

[gerryann]

Fantastic!! Thanks for the review!! :BigApplause:

[Bonny]

That's awesome. Glad to hear. The Villages does everything top notch. Can't wait to give it a try.

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

Katie Belle’s has issued the following list of the most frequently asked questions about the newly remodeled venue in Spanish Springs Town Square:

• Has the menu changed – yes – totally.

• Hours of Operation – Sunday closed (except for special occasions), Monday and Tuesday hours vary depending on our special events, Wednesday and Thursday 3:30 p.m. to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday 3:30 p.m. to 11 p.m.

• Happy Hour – Wednesday thru Saturday 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. – all alcoholic beverages are half price (happy hour not available on bottles of wine and during special events).

• What is going into downstairs – retail tenants – we do not know who.

• Do you have to make reservations for dinner – at this time, we will not take reservations for dinner – at some point, Village residents will be able to make reservations for a dinner table.

• Is there a time limit on dinner tables – in order to satisfy as many guests as possible, we plan on tables being occupied for a maximum of two hours for dinner.

• Is Katie Belle’s doing Sunday brunch – no

• Will the entertainment be the same – the entertainment will be very similar – due to the size of our restaurant, entertainment will be for seated guests only. We will not be able to have standing guests during the shows.

• Why can’t we stay all night – we have created two distinct areas in our restaurant. One is for dining and the other is for shows – as any restaurant that serves dinner, we have to turn tables, so, in our dining area, we need the tables available for the next set of dining guests (no cover charge in our dining area) – in our show area, we will charge a small cover charge to pay for the production of the show. On Wednesdays and Thursdays, there is only one show for the night. Your cover charge will enable you to stay for the entire show, if you desire – on Friday and Saturday nights, there are two shows. You can purchase tickets for both shows and stay all night. On top of the cover charge, there will be a minimum purchase per show.

[NYGUY]

We will be going for sure!!

[2BNTV]

My husband and I ate dinner last night at Katie Belle's and it was terrific! The restaurant is beautiful decorated well and very nice comfortable furniture. The menu has been completely revamped and upgraded along with a new very good wine list. Entree's come with Caesar salad or salad bar, a side dish and warm crusty bread with herbed olive oil for dipping. Appetizers included clams casino, jumbo shrimp cocktail, seared ahi tuna, spinach artichoke dip and more, We split the ahi tuna and it was excellent. There are a lot of entrees. Several fish which can be prepared baked, broiled or blackened and accompanied with choice of several sauces, chicken, veal,
rack of lamb, lollypop pork chop, crab cakes, pasta dishes. We both had very well prepared fish. Side dishes were very good. Service was excellent and we will return often. A 100% positive experience. Don't listen to the bashers who have never been there. Go and enjoy!

:BigApplause:

A review from someone who was there!!! Sounds great!

I will looking forward to seeing a show and or have a dinner.

[dadspet]

We did the pass through last week and haven't had a chance to try the food yet. Our opinion (shared my many we have talked with) on New vs Old Katie Belle's is > while its not bad it clearly doesn't have the class or atmosphere of the old Katie Belles which was unique and a real attraction that most residents were proud to take their quests and show off the "resident only" restaurant and entertainment center. Dancers have now lost the afternoon music many enjoyed and even most nights since they are now "shows". So from a dancers point of view and those who enjoyed a unique experience I think its lost that pazaz - but for those who expected better dinning it sounds like it will be a step in the right direction. To be honest we liked the food and drinks at Katie Belles, very reasonable and entertainment that was great. Cattle Barron's food was a step up and enjoyable with prices that were still reasonable. You couldn't beat the atmosphere downstairs or upstairs.

[OldManTime]

I would have expected the new KB's is first class. As most new restaurants, have plenty of help, first class food, etc. The Snowbirds will love it, best in the county today… bet KB's will fail in a year as the CattleBaron Club did..

[JSR22]

Why would you expect this new restaurant not to well? Similar to Lopez, Palmer and Hemingway's that are doing fine. Actually I think Katie Belles was better. The Sharon across the street will bring in ait of peiple.

[graciegirl]

We did the pass through last week and haven't had a chance to try the food yet. Our opinion (shared my many we have talked with) on New vs Old Katie Belle's is > while its not bad it clearly doesn't have the class or atmosphere of the old Katie Belles which was unique and a real attraction that most residents were proud to take their quests and show off the "resident only" restaurant and entertainment center. Dancers have now lost the afternoon music many enjoyed and even most nights since they are now "shows". So from a dancers point of view and those who enjoyed a unique experience I think its lost that pazaz - but for those who expected better dinning it sounds like it will be a step in the right direction. To be honest we liked the food and drinks at Katie Belles, very reasonable and entertainment that was great. Cattle Barron's food was a step up and enjoyable with prices that were still reasonable. You couldn't beat the atmosphere downstairs or upstairs.



Two posters say what I suspected.


Out with the old and in with the new. I am sure that there will be romance at the new one too.

[Jdmiata]

We did the pass through last week and haven't had a chance to try the food yet. Our opinion (shared my many we have talked with) on New vs Old Katie Belle's is > while its not bad it clearly doesn't have the class or atmosphere of the old Katie Belles which was unique and a real attraction that most residents were proud to take their quests and show off the "resident only" restaurant and entertainment center. Dancers have now lost the afternoon music many enjoyed and even most nights since they are now "shows". So from a dancers point of view and those who enjoyed a unique experience I think its lost that pazaz - but for those who expected better dinning it sounds like it will be a step in the right direction. To be honest we liked the food and drinks at Katie Belles, very reasonable and entertainment that was great. Cattle Barron's food was a step up and enjoyable with prices that were still reasonable. You couldn't beat the atmosphere downstairs or upstairs.

Right on. The change was made just to make more money.

[Bogie Shooter]

I would have expected the new KB's is first class. As most new restaurants, have plenty of help, first class food, etc. The Snowbirds will love it, best in the county today… bet KB's will fail in a year as the CattleBaron Club did..

Is this just a guess or based on a visit?

[Bogie Shooter]

Right on. The change was made just to make more money.

You don't have to spend your money there.........

[gerryann]

Right on. The change was made just to make more money.

Its called a business.

[goodtimesintv]

Right on. The change was made just to make more money.

Have you ever heard of private enterprise?

To make payroll and actually pay the workers, performers and management, "making money" is an essential goal.

Without "making money", private-sector businesses have to close.

[rubicon]

Have you ever heard of private enterprise?

To make payroll and actually pay the workers, performers and management, "making money" is an essential goal.

Without "making money", private-sector businesses have to close.

But of course...and I am a devout capitalist

I got stopped by troopers once traveling through a southern state. the troopers motion me to follow them to town. They told me I had to pay a fine then and there. I was short on cash and so wired home to my wife to please send some money. While in that town I discovered the Judge's name plastered on every building within sight....and it was a small town. So the moral to my story is there is private sector business then there is PRIVATE SECTOR BUSINESS

Personal Best Regards

[CFrance]

That's awesome. Glad to hear. The Villages does everything top notch. Can't wait to give it a try.
Bonnie, you are falling down on the job.:cryin2: You should have been there already!!!:a040:

[Bonny]

Bonnie, you are falling down on the job.:cryin2: You should have been there already!!!:a040:
I'll definitely get there soon. Gonna let the newness die down. :D :beer3:

[dewilson58]

I'll definitely get there soon. Gonna let the newness die down. :D :beer3:


Waiting.

Waiting.

Waiting.

Waiting for your report.

:highfive:

[Allegiance]

I am sure it's great for what it now is. Sad that it's gone and many feel we lost an amenity. Praising the developer or vouching for their right to make money will NOT take away that feeling. *HAROLD*SCHWARTZ would walk around the original town square, mingle and asked the villagers how he could make their lives more happy. He lived in his manufactured home and was happy to be a real villager.

[chachacha]

i wish the owners would open a real dance hall saloon type place and charge a cover charge at the door. surely it would be a successful business and replace the void of a great dancing venue which many of us feel. just not the same to go and dance at a rec center or on concrete in the square. when survey time comes around, those who would like this should mention it as a request. we have plenty of places to go to eat!

[graciegirl]

I am sure it's great for what it now is. Sad that it's gone and many feel we lost an amenity. Praising the developer or vouching for their right to make money will NOT take away that feeling. *HAROLD*SCHWARTZ would walk around the original town square, mingle and asked the villagers how he could make their lives more happy. He lived in his manufactured home and was happy to be a real villager.



Harold loved his family, I betcha, and would be proud of all they have done, but most of all he would be proud they were still working, even though they certainly don't have to. This place now is the vision of Gary Morse, gone now, and his children who I think are doing a great job


I am a huge fan of the free market and the work ethic and of taking good care of what you have. I think that the area near Katie Belles is changing, many of the original folks have moved to the village of Heavenly or to Freedom Point or back home near their families. The Sharon is there and good venues for dining before or a drink after will be used a lot. People in the very new areas are fifteen miles away from Katie Belles. I don't know if that matters but is worth noting.


I think the loss of a large dance floor is probably the biggest change. I enjoyed watching some lovely dancing by residents. But life moves on.


Most of the restaurant kitchens in the Villages use pre-made entrees, purchased from large businesses who employ excellent chefs who figure out recipes and then meals are pre assembled and probably frozen ahead of time. In fact not only in The Villages but in all chains too. I for one do not think this affects the taste in a negative way and often beats the heck out of some kid who might be cooking back there.


As for Katie Belles, we will see. Remember how folks were all upset about the Sharon?

[Bonny]

Harold loved his family, I betcha, and would be proud of all they have done, but most of all he would be proud they were still working, even though they certainly don't have to. This place now is the vision of Gary Morse, gone now, and his children who I think are doing a great job


I am a huge fan of the free market and the work ethic and of taking good care of what you have. I think that the area near Katie Belles is changing, many of the original folks have moved to the village of Heavenly or to Freedom Point or back home near their families. The Sharon is there and good venues for dining before or a drink after will be used a lot. People in the very new areas are fifteen miles away from Katie Belles. I don't know if that matters but is worth noting.


I think the loss of a large dance floor is probably the biggest change. I enjoyed watching some lovely dancing by residents. But life moves on.


Most of the kitchens in the Villages use pre-made entrees, purchased from large businesses who employ excellent chefs who figure out recipes and then meals are pre assembled and probably frozen ahead of time. In fact not only in The Villages but in all chains too. I for one do not think this affects the taste in a negative way and often beats the heck out of some kid who might be cooking back there.


As for Katie Belles, we will see. Remember how folks were all upset about the Sharon?
I remember how upset people were when they stopped the salad wheel they used to bring to the tables at Katie Belles.
People were upset when they took the upstairs and made it Cattle Baron.
In 16 years, we've seen a lot of changes and it always works out.
We used to enjoy talking with Harold at Cafe Ole' back in the day. Being from Michigan, it gave us a lot to talk about.
Thank you Harold and the Morse clan for everything you have provided for us in our golden years. Never imagined retired life was going to be like this. We love it here !

[ladean46]

So happy that the restaurant was redone.........but what about us, The Village residents
Katie Belles was our restaurant, now anyone and everyone can go in
I think they made a big mistake when they made it open to the general public.

[the square]

Ah yes. "resident only", that term seems to be going the way of the dial telephone. I think Katie Belles and the Alamo have something in common. They're both been over run by outside forces. I believe that non-residents already get enough entertainment here as it is. The three squares leading the list. If the Villages with it's supposed 100,000 residents can't keep Katie belles afloat then maybe it wasn't meant to be. I've been going there since 2008 and thought is great the way it was. It seem that The Villages is going from a " friendliest hometown" to another tourist destination.

[Cathy H]

I'll definitely get there soon. Gonna let the newness die down. :D :beer3:
when you do go, pls. describe how the show vs. non-show seating is arranged. used to be when upstairs you still heard & maybe saw the show. now?

[CFrance]

So happy that the restaurant was redone.........but what about us, The Village residents
Katie Belles was our restaurant, now anyone and everyone can go in
I think they made a big mistake when they made it open to the general public.
Well, perhaps we Village residents didn't go there enough to make it profitable? In the future, when only Villagers can make reservations, we should step up and fill in all the dates and times if we want it to be exclusive. They have to make a profit in order to stay open.

TV isn't a non-profit development. We've only been to Katie Belle's once, but now with a glowing report, another trip is in our future.

[biker1]

I was considering getting tickets for Uncle Bob's Rock Shop. We have seen them about a half a dozen times at the old Katie Belle's. Things are now different. They have two shows, each 90 minutes long. If you wanted to stay the evening you would have to pay for a seat for each show and probably move tables. They do remove the tables in front of the stage for a dance floor (same as old Katie Belle's). This comes from the ticket office.

when you do go, pls. describe how the show vs. non-show seating is arranged. used to be when upstairs you still heard & maybe saw the show. now?

[Bonny]

I was considering getting tickets for Uncle Bob's Rock Shop. We have seen them about a half a dozen times at the old Katie Belle's. Things are now different. They have two shows, each 90 minutes long. If you wanted to stay the evening you would have to pay for a seat for each show and probably move tables. They do remove the tables in front of the stage for a dance floor (same as old Katie Belle's). This comes from the ticket office.
Just FYI....You also have a minimum you have to spend at both shows.

[biker1]

It is $10. I assume you would have to spend $20 total if you got tickets for both shows. I think the tickets are $3 per show. This is about the same as with the old Katie Belle's, if you wanted a guaranteed seat, but you only needed one ticket for the whole evening. The food minimum is now higher if you wanted to stay the whole evening, compared to the old Katie Belle's, but we were always well over the minimum anyways so the new policy is not an issue. Having to buy two sets of tickets and probably moving tables to stay the whole evening seems like a bit of a bother. It is what it is.

Just FYI....You also have a minimum you have to spend at both shows.

[Bonny]

It is $10. I assume you would have to spend $20 total if you got tickets for both shows. I think the tickets are $3 per show. This is about the same as with the old Katie Belle's, if you wanted a guaranteed seat, but you only needed one ticket for the whole evening. The food minimum is now higher if you wanted to stay the whole evening, compared to the old Katie Belle's, but we were always well over the minimum anyways so the new policy is not an issue. Having to buy two sets of tickets and probably moving tables to stay the whole evening seems like a bit of a bother. It is what it is.
I agree. That is $26.00 to stay the whole time. I would definitely spend that with food & drinks, no problem. :thumbup:

[PammyJ]

I went to Katie Belles last night! It is so gorgeous! I love the atmosphere!
We had the salad bar and an appetizer! There are many positives there, but I think we have to realize, it is not the same Katie Belles. It is the "new" Katie Belles!

Things that have changed from the perspective of me and hubby:
No sandwiches on menu, the menu is beautiful and has many yummy things on it. The least expensive is fried shrimp @ $16.
No pitchers of beer, lol,
They had a huge sangria special last night that looked awesome though!

Really weird, even though the seats were empty in front of the band, they require you to pay the cover charge up front to sit there. I don't think I will do that again, unless I have guests. I feel sorry for the entertainment. You get some of your energy from your audience when performing. No fun to play to empty seats! There were only 30 people in the entire restaurant and that includes those at the bar. We got there around 8:30. The band had just stopped playing and didn't come back on until almost 9:30.
For us, we will probably go when it is a special occasion. Like the new, but miss the value of the old? Gotta try that huge Sangria!

[JoMar]

So happy that the restaurant was redone.........but what about us, The Village residents
Katie Belles was our restaurant, now anyone and everyone can go in
I think they made a big mistake when they made it open to the general public.

How was opening it to the general public a mistake? As I understand it the residents didn't really support Katie Belles. The came to dance and didn't spend much money which was one of the reasons for the change. So if the general public can help make it successful I don't know how you can say it's a mistake.

[Mudder]

"Outsiders" can go into any country club to eat also so why all the complaints about letting them into KB?

[Jimigolf]

I agree. That is $26.00 to stay the whole time. I would definitely spend that with food & drinks, no problem. :thumbup:

Seems to me that the $26 (That might be per person) would be in addition to the menu charge for food and drinks. Could be pretty expensive, especially if the food is as rotten as when KB was on the main floor.

[golfing eagles]

Took longer than I expected, but we have our first winner!!! See post #3

[JSR22]

Seems to me that the $26 (That might be per person) would be in addition to the menu charge for food and drinks. Could be pretty expensive, especially if the food is as rotten as when KB was on the main floor.

It is 3 per person for the show
You need to spend 10 aper person for food or drink
All it amounts to is 6 for 2 people to see the show
The food is excellent and the new menu has a lot of interesting choices
Upscale diNing in a beautiful restaurant.

[Bonny]

Seems to me that the $26 (That might be per person) would be in addition to the menu charge for food and drinks. Could be pretty expensive, especially if the food is as rotten as when KB was on the main floor.
I personally liked a lot of the food at Katie Belles. The food at Cattle Baron was very good !

[Northerner52]

I was there last night, 1/8/16. Was surprised we had to pay $3 each for the entertainment, a band, because we wanted to sit ringside so to speak. We could have opted for the tables far away and avoided the $3 cover charge. Arrived there at 6:30 and was told we would have to be out by 8:30 for the next sitting. I ordered the tenderloin tips. The size of the tips were the size of croutons. more onions than meat and I had to send a search party for the mushrooms. Very small tenderloin pieces but very tender. The included spinach salad was loaded with bacon and blu cheese and was very excellent and was my dates Caesar. My potato was good and on the small side. The bread and the oil were excellent. My dinner date had a chicken dish and liked it. Both were $20 each. Pricey I think

[aln]

I am sure it's great for what it now is. Sad that it's gone and many feel we lost an amenity. Praising the developer or vouching for their right to make money will NOT take away that feeling. *HAROLD*SCHWARTZ would walk around the original town square, mingle and asked the villagers how he could make their lives more happy. He lived in his manufactured home and was happy to be a real villager.


Restaurants are NOT amenities

[tomwed]

I am sure it's great for what it now is. Sad that it's gone and many feel we lost an amenity. Praising the developer or vouching for their right to make money will NOT take away that feeling. *HAROLD*SCHWARTZ would walk around the original town square, mingle and asked the villagers how he could make their lives more happy. He lived in his manufactured home and was happy to be a real villager.
I enjoy the stories from when the villages was new. It's hard for me to imagine Mr. Schwartz living in a manufactured home. Wasn't he a man of means at that time?

I like asking the villagers what would make them happier too. Most of the amenities are in the north end of town. I only made it to Katie Belles one time and listened to 4 concerts at the church on the square.

[rustyp]

I enjoy the stories from when the villages was new. It's hard for me to imagine Mr. Schwartz living in a manufactured home. Wasn't he a man of means at that time?

I like asking the villagers what would make them happier too. Most of the amenities are in the north end of town. I only made it to Katie Belles one time and listened to 4 concerts at the church on the square.

Harold lived in a manufactured home on Paradise Lake off of Aloha and Tarrson. The first town square is not Spanish Springs. It is where the alcove is at El Ranchito restaurant at Lagrande and Griffin. A few of my neighbors here on the historic side knew Harold personally. There was a celebration a few years back at Schwartz park and several people spoke about their memories of him. Every story mentioned how much he loved people and music. One story of interest is that Harold would walk around showing off the place. He would stop at a house that he had for sale and ask do you like this? Reach into his pocket and toss them the keys - try it out for a few days. The start of Lifestyle Trial.

I will miss Katie Belle's for lunch - for all day entertainment - for showing my guests our private club house (a little bit of show boating). I miss the Church On The Square - especially December countdown. I miss some of the residential vendors whose store names where part of the fictional story of how SS was settled.

[tomwed]

Harold lived in a manufactured home on Paradise Lake off of Aloha and Tarrson. The first town square is not Spanish Springs. It is where the alcove is at El Ranchito restaurant at Lagrande and Griffin. A few of my neighbors here on the historic side knew Harold personally. There was a celebration a few years back at Schwartz park and several people spoke about their memories of him. Every story mentioned how much he loved people and music. One story of interest is that Harold would walk around showing off the place. He would stop at a house that he had for sale and ask do you like this? Reach into his pocket and toss them the keys - try it out for a few days. The start of Lifestyle Trial.

I will miss Katie Belle's for lunch - for all day entertainment - for showing my guests our private club house (a little bit of show boating). I miss the Church On The Square - especially December countdown. I miss some of the residential vendors whose store names where part of the fictional story of how SS was settled.
thank-you Rusty
He had a gift of making regular folks feel like millionaires.

[Chi-Town]

Katie Belle’s has issued the following list of the most frequently asked questions about the newly remodeled venue in Spanish Springs Town Square:

• Has the menu changed – yes – totally.

• Hours of Operation – Sunday closed (except for special occasions), Monday and Tuesday hours vary depending on our special events, Wednesday and Thursday 3:30 p.m. to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday 3:30 p.m. to 11 p.m.

• Happy Hour – Wednesday thru Saturday 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. – all alcoholic beverages are half price (happy hour not available on bottles of wine and during special events).

• What is going into downstairs – retail tenants – we do not know who.

• Do you have to make reservations for dinner – at this time, we will not take reservations for dinner – at some point, Village residents will be able to make reservations for a dinner table.

• Is there a time limit on dinner tables – in order to satisfy as many guests as possible, we plan on tables being occupied for a maximum of two hours for dinner.

• Is Katie Belle’s doing Sunday brunch – no

• Will the entertainment be the same – the entertainment will be very similar – due to the size of our restaurant, entertainment will be for seated guests only. We will not be able to have standing guests during the shows.

• Why can’t we stay all night – we have created two distinct areas in our restaurant. One is for dining and the other is for shows – as any restaurant that serves dinner, we have to turn tables, so, in our dining area, we need the tables available for the next set of dining guests (no cover charge in our dining area) – in our show area, we will charge a small cover charge to pay for the production of the show. On Wednesdays and Thursdays, there is only one show for the night. Your cover charge will enable you to stay for the entire show, if you desire – on Friday and Saturday nights, there are two shows. You can purchase tickets for both shows and stay all night. On top of the cover charge, there will be a minimum purchase per show.
Thanks for the info.

[graciegirl]

thank-you Rusty
He had a gift of making regular folks feel like millionaires.



THAT still is happening.

[tomwed]

How does this work out?
Wed Jan 13, 2016 6:30PM Katie Belle's The Villages, FL
Wed Jan 13, 2016 7PM Katie Belle's The Villages, FL
Wed Jan 13, 2016 7:30PM Katie Belle's The Villages, FL

Do you sit down at 6:30, order, drink and leave before 7 so the next group can get to the table by 7?

not complaining, just asking

[2BNTV]

My impression of Harold Schwartz is, that he was the type of person who didn't have to live in the biggest house so he could impress people, Some people are just humble and want the people around them to enjoy their lives.

As far as the developer, some people "are for them" and some people "tend to not like them". I personally don't believe they have an axe to grind as they are wealthy.

I'm sure that sometimes their decisions are not perfect but in general, they do tend to get a lot of things right.

Count me as one person who loves living here and will never move.!!!

Call me "froggie Joe". :D

[biker1]

They are staggering the seating times so the demands on the kitchen are spread out.

How does this work out?
Wed Jan 13, 2016 6:30PM Katie Belle's The Villages, FL
Wed Jan 13, 2016 7PM Katie Belle's The Villages, FL
Wed Jan 13, 2016 7:30PM Katie Belle's The Villages, FL

Do you sit down at 6:30, order, drink and leave before 7 so the next group can get to the table by 7?

not complaining, just asking

[tomwed]

They are staggering the seating times so the demands on the kitchen are spread out.
Did you go to a half hour show?

[biker1]

Yes, I did and it was great, best half hour show I have ever seen, can't wait to go back ;-)

Did you go to a half hour show?

[dotti105]

We went to the old Katie Belle's a few times before it closed. I was really not that impressed. I know it had a colorful history and was an integral part of Spanish Springs. But we actually thought it looked a bit tired and quite dusty. But we did not know it from it's opening or have a tender spot in our heart for the old Katie Belle's, like many residents do.

I think we all need to have an open mind and go to experience the new "Katie Belle's", trying not to compare. It is new and will be different. That is a given.

But if the old "Katie Belle's" was making a profit, there would have been no need to revamp it. The folks who loved it so ,perhaps, tended to order light and stay long. That is the kiss of death for any restaurant. Especially one with live entertainment.

What we have is the here and now. We can't go back. Go and enjoy it for what it is, or if you don't enjoy it, don't go back. There are lots of other places to dine.

Change is inevitable.

We are just happy to be here and I still think we are living like millionaires here.

Can you think of any place better?? ......hmmm......I didn't think so.

[Bogie Shooter]

We went to the old Katie Belle's a few times before it closed. I was really not that impressed. I know it had a colorful history and was an integral part of Spanish Springs. But we actually thought it looked a bit tired and quite dusty. But we did not know it from it's opening or have a tender spot in our heart for the old Katie Belle's, like many residents do.

I think we all need to have an open mind and go to experience the new "Katie Belle's", trying not to compare. It is new and will be different. That is a given.

But if the old "Katie Belle's" was making a profit, there would have been no need to revamp it. The folks who loved it so ,perhaps, tended to order light and stay long. That is the kiss of death for any restaurant. Especially one with live entertainment.

What we have is the here and now. We can't go back. Go and enjoy it for what it is, or if you don't enjoy it, don't go back. There are lots of other places to dine.

Change is inevitable.

We are just happy to be here and I still think we are living like millionaires here.

Can you think of any place better?? ......hmmm......I didn't think so.
Too much common sense expressed for this thread.:)

[tomwed]

We went to the old Katie Belle's a few times before it closed. I was really not that impressed. I know it had a colorful history and was an integral part of Spanish Springs. But we actually thought it looked a bit tired and quite dusty. But we did not know it from it's opening or have a tender spot in our heart for the old Katie Belle's, like many residents do.

I think we all need to have an open mind and go to experience the new "Katie Belle's", trying not to compare. It is new and will be different. That is a given.

But if the old "Katie Belle's" was making a profit, there would have been no need to revamp it. The folks who loved it so ,perhaps, tended to order light and stay long. That is the kiss of death for any restaurant. Especially one with live entertainment.

What we have is the here and now. We can't go back. Go and enjoy it for what it is, or if you don't enjoy it, don't go back. There are lots of other places to dine.

Change is inevitable.

We are just happy to be here and I still think we are living like millionaires here.

Can you think of any place better?? ......hmmm......I didn't think so.
I can't.

[larcha]

If you go for dinner can you get up and dance during the two hours your having dinner? If its on a Friday or Saturday night, and you buy show tickets for the second show, after you have dinner are you still subject to the cover charge and minimum purchase requirement?

[earlehancock]

I went but was not impressed. Expensive, food was average. it used to be a fun venue, not so much any more.

[graciegirl]

We went to the old Katie Belle's a few times before it closed. I was really not that impressed. I know it had a colorful history and was an integral part of Spanish Springs. But we actually thought it looked a bit tired and quite dusty. But we did not know it from it's opening or have a tender spot in our heart for the old Katie Belle's, like many residents do.

I think we all need to have an open mind and go to experience the new "Katie Belle's", trying not to compare. It is new and will be different. That is a given.

But if the old "Katie Belle's" was making a profit, there would have been no need to revamp it. The folks who loved it so ,perhaps, tended to order light and stay long. That is the kiss of death for any restaurant. Especially one with live entertainment.

What we have is the here and now. We can't go back. Go and enjoy it for what it is, or if you don't enjoy it, don't go back. There are lots of other places to dine.

Change is inevitable.

We are just happy to be here and I still think we are living like millionaires here.

Can you think of any place better?? ......hmmm......I didn't think so.



Absolutely well said. Excellent summary.

[GeraldHall]

My wife and I totally agree. Great food and great service.

[Mrs. Muzz]

Thank you!

[BigB46]

Thank you for sharing!

[golfing eagles]

I went but was not impressed. Expensive, food was average. it used to be a fun venue, not so much any more.

and it looks like we have our second winner!

[bunnyhop]

I pretty much agree with dadspet's comment. We were there for dinner and dancing. The food was very good, but the themed architecture with the high stained-glass ceiling and surrounding balcony dining areas, which made Katie Belles truly "Katie Belles," as well as the original vintage, old western opera-house ambiance is completely gone. Residents can no longer stop by for lunch or a drink, nor just drop in to dance in the evening. Those days are over. For those of us who loved the original Katie Belles, the new change is very disappointing ... but there's nothing that we can do about it; therefore, we have to learn to accept the change. :-)

[OhioBuckeye]

My husband and I ate dinner last night at Katie Belle's and it was terrific! The restaurant is beautiful decorated well and very nice comfortable furniture. The menu has been completely revamped and upgraded along with a new very good wine list. Entree's come with Caesar salad or salad bar, a side dish and warm crusty bread with herbed olive oil for dipping. Appetizers included clams casino, jumbo shrimp cocktail, seared ahi tuna, spinach artichoke dip and more, We split the ahi tuna and it was excellent. There are a lot of entrees. Several fish which can be prepared baked, broiled or blackened and accompanied with choice of several sauces, chicken, veal,
rack of lamb, lollypop pork chop, crab cakes, pasta dishes. We both had very well prepared fish. Side dishes were very good. Service was excellent and we will return often. A 100% positive experience. Don't listen to the bashers who have never been there. Go and enjoy! 4 yrs. when we were just guest we ate at Katie Belle's & it was good & the prices were pretty cheap but before the close to remodel the prices went up I thought quite a bit. Now that they've remodeled I would think the prices would of went up quite a bit. But I'm sure the die hard Katie Belle go getters will argue that point. I guess I always thought that The Villages gave the residents a cut rate if they showed their ID's, but anyone from Ocala, Wildwood, Fruitland Park can go anyway in The Villages & be treated just like the residents that pay $150. a month amenities! The longer I live here the more I learn that it's not as great as they make it sound when you talk to them about buying a house.

[pgc4340]

We did the pass through last week and haven't had a chance to try the food yet. Our opinion (shared my many we have talked with) on New vs Old Katie Belle's is > while its not bad it clearly doesn't have the class or atmosphere of the old Katie Belles which was unique and a real attraction that most residents were proud to take their quests and show off the "resident only" restaurant and entertainment center. Dancers have now lost the afternoon music many enjoyed and even most nights since they are now "shows". So from a dancers point of view and those who enjoyed a unique experience I think its lost that pazaz - but for those who expected better dinning it sounds like it will be a step in the right direction. To be honest we liked the food and drinks at Katie Belles, very reasonable and entertainment that was great. Cattle Barron's food was a step up and enjoyable with prices that were still reasonable. You couldn't beat the atmosphere downstairs or upstairs.

Once again, The Villages giveth and The Villages taketh away. I wonder how Harold would feel about this, because The Villages has certainly changed since he passed away.

[bagboy]

4 yrs. when we were just guest we ate at Katie Belle's & it was good & the prices were pretty cheap but before the close to remodel the prices went up I thought quite a bit. Now that they've remodeled I would think the prices would of went up quite a bit. But I'm sure the die hard Katie Belle go getters will argue that point. I guess I always thought that The Villages gave the residents a cut rate if they showed their ID's, but anyone from Ocala, Wildwood, Fruitland Park can go anyway in The Villages & be treated just like the residents that pay $150. a month amenities! The longer I live here the more I learn that it's not as great as they make it sound when you talk to them about buying a house.

...

[billethkid]

4 yrs. when we were just guest we ate at Katie Belle's & it was good & the prices were pretty cheap but before the close to remodel the prices went up I thought quite a bit. Now that they've remodeled I would think the prices would of went up quite a bit. But I'm sure the die hard Katie Belle go getters will argue that point. I guess I always thought that The Villages gave the residents a cut rate if they showed their ID's, but anyone from Ocala, Wildwood, Fruitland Park can go anyway in The Villages & be treated just like the residents that pay $150. a month amenities! The longer I live here the more I learn that it's not as great as they make it sound when you talk to them about buying a house.

Now entering year 12! Some things have changed. Some are always disappointed with change....no matter what it is.

More good has come from the evolution of TV.

And 12 years hence, with the plus or minus changes TV is not what they make it sound like when the sales people talk but it has been and is what just about everybody was looking for when the decided to buy here.

Remember TV provides the infrastructure.....we are TV.....there is no better lifestyle in my humble opinion.

[2BNTV]

Now entering year 12! Some things have changed. Some are always disappointed with change....no matter what it is.

More good has come from the evolution of TV.

And 12 years hence, with the plus or minus changes TV is not what they make it sound like when the sales people talk but it has been and is what just about everybody was looking for when the decided to buy here.

Remember TV provides the infrastructure.....we are TV.....there is no better lifestyle in my humble opinion.

:agree:

Sorry, I have to disagree with some people in TV. The $150 ammenity fee does not mean all things in TV, should be free. There are a certain amount of people who want things to be virtually free, as when you see someone bringing a cooler into the square, instead of supporting the entertaining provided.

I hear of certain places trying to imitate our lifestyle but will never duplicate it! This developer has spent billions creating this paradise and I am deeply grateful.

Everyone has the option of staying home and or, not spending any money, or living in a nearby community and visiting all of the wonderful activities that are always happening. Outsiders that spend money at businesses in TV are supporting those businesses. It's better than having them close.

I've heard people complaining of snowbirds, (traffic, restaurant crowding, etc), but they also bring a lot of money into TV economy.

But can 114,350 people be wrong? :D

Nuff said.

[Bonny]

:agree:

Sorry, I have to disagree with some people in TV. The $150 ammenity fee does not mean all things in TV, should be free. There are a certain amount of people who want things to be virtually free, as when you see someone bringing a cooler into the square, instead of supporting the entertaining provided.

I hear of certain places trying to imitate our lifestyle but will never duplicate it! This developer has spent billions creating this paradise and I am deeply grateful.

Everyone has the option of staying home and or, not spending any money, or living in a nearby community and visiting all of the wonderful activities that are always happening. Outsiders that spend money at businesses in TV are supporting those businesses. It's better than having them close.

I've heard people complaining of snowbirds, (traffic, restaurant crowding, etc), but they also bring a lot of money into TV economy.

But can 114,350 people be wrong? :D

Nuff said.
I agree !!
:BigApplause: :bigbow:

[glenbrook]

Will the new Katie Belles be opened to the public?

[Bogie Shooter]

So happy that the restaurant was redone.........but what about us, The Village residents
Katie Belles was our restaurant, now anyone and everyone can go in
I think they made a big mistake when they made it open to the general public.

Ah yes. "resident only", that term seems to be going the way of the dial telephone. I think Katie Belles and the Alamo have something in common. They're both been over run by outside forces. I believe that non-residents already get enough entertainment here as it is. The three squares leading the list. If the Villages with it's supposed 100,000 residents can't keep Katie belles afloat then maybe it wasn't meant to be. I've been going there since 2008 and thought is great the way it was. It seem that The Villages is going from a " friendliest hometown" to another tourist destination.

How was opening it to the general public a mistake? As I understand it the residents didn't really support Katie Belles. The came to dance and didn't spend much money which was one of the reasons for the change. So if the general public can help make it successful I don't know how you can say it's a mistake.

"Outsiders" can go into any country club to eat also so why all the complaints about letting them into KB?

Will the new Katie Belles be opened to the public?

Glenbrook, short answer yes. Long answer with opinions......read all of the posts.

[2BNTV]

Never was exclusive despite what they said. Loads of outsiders in there all the time. New policy just says anyone is now welcome.

Correct 100%!

Trying to make a decent profit as it did not before, beside being crowded almost all of the time.

Don't mean to be rude but some villagers when they open their wallet to get out money, Washington, Lincoln and Hamilton come up with sunglasses on it! One cannot sit there all night and drink diet coke and expect KB's to make money.

Hence, the changes!!! Will the changes be good for residents, etc., only time will tell.

:popcorn: :popcorn: :popcorn:

[Skip]

Never was exclusive despite what they said. Loads of outsiders in there all the time. New policy just says anyone is now welcome.

Hmmm. Open to the public now is BIG NEWS. Did I miss the article in The Daily Sun that said we no longer have a "Residents Only" club?
It wasn't long ago that I read in the sales lit that residents enjoy an "exclusive club" called Katie Belle's. I keep missing these official announcements.

Skip

[Villager1181]

Went to Momma Mia. Dinner was ok. We had a lot of fun but the movie quality was very poor. I think it is worn out. The actors faces all looked dirty. We had a good time singing and dancing at our seats. Either the movie or the screen needs updating.
We wanted to go see Norman Lee in February but there will be no dance floor. They put the tables on the dance floor right up to the stage. If we are going we want to dance.
If they do the same for Rocky they will die out. It can't just be about the money - they have to give us what we want or we won't come.
KB was so nice before. We could just stop in on Sunday for drinks, a bite to eat and dancing. Our visitors loved going there and dancing with us.
Nothing stays the same - a new generation of Morse's are taking over and it is all about the money.

[tomwed]

Hmmm. Open to the public now is BIG NEWS. Did I miss the article in The Daily Sun that said we no longer have a "Residents Only" club?
It wasn't long ago that I read in the sales lit that residents enjoy an "exclusive club" called Katie Belle's. I keep missing these official announcements.

Skip
maybe I can help

[JoMar]

Went to Momma Mia. Dinner was ok. We had a lot of fun but the movie quality was very poor. I think it is worn out. The actors faces all looked dirty. We had a good time singing and dancing at our seats. Either the movie or the screen needs updating.
We wanted to go see Norman Lee in February but there will be no dance floor. They put the tables on the dance floor right up to the stage. If we are going we want to dance.
If they do the same for Rocky they will die out. It can't just be about the money - they have to give us what we want or we won't come.
KB was so nice before. We could just stop in on Sunday for drinks, a bite to eat and dancing. Our visitors loved going there and dancing with us.
Nothing stays the same - a new generation of Morse's are taking over and it is all about the money.

This may come as a shock to many here, but it has always been about the money. I never read where Mr. Schwartz or Mr. Morse ever said they were building a benevolent community. They were here to have an income, to feed their families. If you read their financial situation when this was started you would know that what they did was hard. Because they were very successful, because they built a legacy for the kids and their grand kids and because they didn't include us there is a need to malign them. Give us what WE want, keep things the way WE liked it and don't charge us any more than WE pay now even though we think we are paying too much. When will we understand.....probably never. The good news is they said the same thing about Sharon and people felt if they didn't show up it would fail. How is that going? I agree with the poster that if you don't like what they are doing then don't show up. But, please don't malign those that gave you the opportunity to enjoy this place....assuming you do. END OF ANOTHER RANT

[Bonny]

Went to Momma Mia. Dinner was ok. We had a lot of fun but the movie quality was very poor. I think it is worn out. The actors faces all looked dirty. We had a good time singing and dancing at our seats. Either the movie or the screen needs updating.
We wanted to go see Norman Lee in February but there will be no dance floor. They put the tables on the dance floor right up to the stage. If we are going we want to dance.
If they do the same for Rocky they will die out. It can't just be about the money - they have to give us what we want or we won't come.
KB was so nice before. We could just stop in on Sunday for drinks, a bite to eat and dancing. Our visitors loved going there and dancing with us.
Nothing stays the same - a new generation of Morse's are taking over and it is all about the money.
It's a business. That's what you do when you have a business, you make money, as it should be. If I owned it, it would be to hopefully make money.

[outlaw]

It's a business. That's what you do when you have a business, you make money, as it should be. If I owned it, it would be to hopefully make money.

Who says they weren't making money before the remodel?

[Bonny]

Who says they weren't making money before the remodel?
We used to go to Katie Belles 3 or 4 days a week. Watched soooooo many people come in to dance, never get a seat because they weren't buying anything and stay all night. When there was a $5.00 min. they would spend $5.00.
We have been here almost 16 years. It takes a lot of money to pay for the operation of a building that large, the entertainment and staff at Katie Belles.
We have seen so many changes there over the years trying to make it profitable.

[tomwed]

I remember villagers telling me that potential buyers were picked up by limo and comped including dinner at any village owned restaurant including the Cattle Barron. They had a $40 steak. That was the most expensive meal. A show at Katie Belles is right there. I wonder how much business was from potential buyers.

[dgammon6]

My wife was there two weeks ago to buy tickets for a show. She was asked for ID. She said "I thought Katie Belles was open to the public"? His reply was "no, its just like it was before, guest must be accompanied by a resident".

[Bonny]

My wife was there two weeks ago to buy tickets for a show. She was asked for ID. She said "I thought Katie Belles was open to the public"? His reply was "no, its just like it was before, guest must be accompanied by a resident".
With ID it's cheaper. The shows always allowed non-residents

[dgammon6]

He was referring to admittance to the restaurant.

[kidshelleen51]

With ID it's cheaper. The shows always allowed non-residents

Well Bonny has manage to cheerlead on every page of this post. Katie belle's was special and now it is just another dinner joint. Schwartz wanted it to be special, and his sons tried their best. Now, 2 billion in profits later and the grandkids want more. They make money selling you a house. They make money renting buildings to restaurants, medical offices and virtually every other property in tjhe area. Why couldn't there be one place for residents only that tried it's best to break even and not seek to squeeze more dollars out of the people that have made them wealthy? Schwartz and Gary both got it. Bonny aside, this place isn't as special as it use to be. If I want a good dinner I'll go to Harry's or the Lopez. Palmer. Bonefish ...etc. Many of my visitors will miss the old KB/CB as much as I will.

[dbussone]

I just stepped outside to check - no full moon that I could see.

[outlaw]

We used to go to Katie Belles 3 or 4 days a week. Watched soooooo many people come in to dance, never get a seat because they weren't buying anything and stay all night. When there was a $5.00 min. they would spend $5.00.
We have been here almost 16 years. It takes a lot of money to pay for the operation of a building that large, the entertainment and staff at Katie Belles.
We have seen so many changes there over the years trying to make it profitable.

So, just a hunch? No actual financials or word from the Morses?

[graciegirl]

Well Bonny has manage to cheerlead on every page of this post. Katie belle's was special and now it is just another dinner joint. Schwartz wanted it to be special, and his sons tried their best. Now, 2 billion in profits later and the grandkids want more. They make money selling you a house. They make money renting buildings to restaurants, medical offices and virtually every other property in tjhe area. Why couldn't there be one place for residents only that tried it's best to break even and not seek to squeeze more dollars out of the people that have made them wealthy? Schwartz and Gary both got it. Bonny aside, this place isn't as special as it use to be. If I want a good dinner I'll go to Harry's or the Lopez. Palmer. Bonefish ...etc. Many of my visitors will miss the old KB/CB as much as I will.



I am all for profit. Beats the heck out of running in the red...

[dotti105]

I think the bottom line is that "you can't please all of the people all of the time".
-Katie Belle's needed to make a profit, it wasn't.
-It has been remastered and will not be the same old Katie Belle's.
-If you go and check it out and decide you don't like it. Don't go back.
-If you go and enjoy it's new menu and entertainment offerings, Great! You will return.
-The Villages was once a small "hometown", it isn't any longer.
-114,000 people have decided this is a great place to live.
-The old Katie Belle's most likely did not influence that decision for the majority of residents.
-If you decide this is not the place for you, there are people waiting in line to take your place.
-There is no place equal to The Villages, anywhere. That does not mean it is perfect.
-Each of us can think of something we would like to have changed, perhaps.
-We believe that The Villages offers us so much, and are thankful for every minute we have here.
-Like I said, You can't please all of the people all of the time. There will always be those who complain just to have something to complain about.

[Polar Bear]

I am all for profit. Beats the heck out of running in the red...like the government.

[emoji106]

[Skip]

He was referring to admittance to the restaurant.

Anyone can have dinner there. Menu prices are the same for residents and non-residents.

Bottom line: It's no longer residents only. (Still waiting for the Daily Sun to tell me that !)

Skip

[Newbeginnings]

We tried it last night, 8 of us. Made a reservation 1 week ago for 2 tables of 4 side by side, when we got there they were going to seat us across the isle from each other, this is not what we reserved, hostess said the website seating is not correct, so they they adjusted and accommodated for us. The food was below average, over cooked fish and steaks, pretty tasteless, slow service, did not care for it all, and no one else did in our party. We would go back to have an appetizer, drinks and dancing, but not for dinner. We did not have high expectations but this was kind of a disaster. The good thing is I liked the decor and much cleaner and refreshed than the old Katie Bells.

[Bonny]

Well Bonny has manage to cheerlead on every page of this post. Katie belle's was special and now it is just another dinner joint. Schwartz wanted it to be special, and his sons tried their best. Now, 2 billion in profits later and the grandkids want more. They make money selling you a house. They make money renting buildings to restaurants, medical offices and virtually every other property in tjhe area. Why couldn't there be one place for residents only that tried it's best to break even and not seek to squeeze more dollars out of the people that have made them wealthy? Schwartz and Gary both got it. Bonny aside, this place isn't as special as it use to be. If I want a good dinner I'll go to Harry's or the Lopez. Palmer. Bonefish ...etc. Many of my visitors will miss the old KB/CB as much as I will.
They make money because this is their business. Why do we need a place for residents only? I'm not sure what you mean by it's not as special as it was.
And yes, if you want a good dinner, you should go to places that you like.
Life is all about choices.
I like what I like, you like what you like.
I cheerlead for many things. Life is just way to short to focus on negativity.
We are never sure how much time we have so I plan on being happy and just having a good time while I still can.

[Bonny]

So, just a hunch? No actual financials or word from the Morses?
Only stating what I know & saw.

[Marathon Man]

I like cheerleaders.

[gesivad]

What a missed opportunity. We went to the new Katie Belle's last night with high hopes after reading the glowing reviews on this site and we were very disappointed. The problems started as soon as we arrived when the hostess tried to seat our party of eight at tables that were not located as our reservation had displayed them. We were told that tables are not necessarily located as they are displayed on the website. Then what is the point? After some serious complaining to the manager she reluctantly arranged to table to meet our needs but we were located very near the hostess stations with at least six greeters standing around looking for things to do. Service was terribly slow with long delays between drink and food orders. Once our food was finally delivered to our table the food was overdone and cold. The food on our plates looked like it was served from a buffet line and was tasteless. Once we had finished our meal and were ready to leave it took at least 20 minutes and repeated request to get our check. We will not be returning for dinner.

[tomwed]

I am all for profit. Beats the heck out of running in the red...
I think that having one single place that only residents and their guests could go would be more profitable. It ties into that "living like a millionaire" snobbery that I couldn't afford anywhere else.

I just find it astonishing that it could be successful when the place was 5 times smaller and they still don't have any competition because there are no other dinner theaters or woopie de do review places.

That's not bashing. I love the place.

Unless they were always loosing money.
What if they said were are going to make this a private club. Your dues are $20/yr just to get in and does not include the cover, menu or drinks. Would 10,000 people sign up? I think so, sort of like the Knights of Columbus. [maybe a bad example]

[MoeVonB61]

gesivad: We also went to Katie Belles last night to see my favorite band, Uncle Bob's Rock Shop. I LOVE the new décor (no more dusty hanging curtains) but my husband does not like. We opted to sit at the bar (beautifully designed) to eat dinner after being told it would be a 1.5 hour wait to sit in the "entertainment" area. I ordered the chicken alfredo and my husband ordered the eggplant parm. Mine was excellent; his was served without any sauce on or for the spaghetti and he had to ask to get some....the eggplant was also very bland :(. As for the claims here for $8 glasses of wine; mine was $6 (white moscato) and the house drinks are only $5.....the place is still great for dancing but 2 MAJOR issues I did not see mentioned here. (1) They missed the mark on the acoustics (band so close to a glass ceiling) AND they really need to fix the air conditioning which everybody was complaining about......I do intend to return when I have girlfriends visiting......my husband says he will not eat eat dinner there again.

[virgind]

Never did like Katie Belles.I some times think these places picture themselves something they are not.

[graciegirl]

Never did like Katie Belles.I some times think these places picture themselves something they are not.



Lot of that goin' on.

[tomwed]

Never did like Katie Belles.I some times think these places picture themselves something they are not.
I'm curious. What did it picture itself?

I can see the argument how the church on the square was not really a church.
And I know that fountain in the center is not really the fountain of youth.
The whole place is sort of pretend.

[tuccillo]

I hope you are not suggesting that the cattle, horse, cowboy, and dog at the entrance to Brownwood are not real ;-)

I'm curious. What did it picture itself?

I can see the argument how the church on the square was not really a church.
And I know that fountain in the center is not really the fountain of youth.
The whole place is sort of pretend.

[outlaw]

I posted up a few threads, he was in my party of 8, don't understand your point. He reads TOTV, doesn't post much because of the harassment some people make if you state a negative opinion.

Oh so true. Or how about a different opinion?

[Bonny]

I think that having one single place that only residents and their guests could go would be more profitable. It ties into that "living like a millionaire" snobbery that I couldn't afford anywhere else.

I just find it astonishing that it could be successful when the place was 5 times smaller and they still don't have any competition because there are no other dinner theaters or woopie de do review places.

That's not bashing. I love the place.

Unless they were always loosing money.
What if they said were are going to make this a private club. Your dues are $20/yr just to get in and does not include the cover, menu or drinks. Would 10,000 people sign up? I think so, sort of like the Knights of Columbus. [maybe a bad example]
They tried that when they made the upstairs Cattle Baron. It was going to be for members only & you had to spend so much a month. Talk about a lot of angry people over that change !!! Needless to say, that didn't work.

[gvf331]

I agree with you 100%. There are many fine restaurants but there was only one Katie Bells. Not only in the Villages but the Cuntry. They could have done many things to increase the profit margin of Cattle Baron and Katie Bells. So to think that they had to put retail in the down stairs just does not make sense unless they want to make as much money as possible. We always brought our house guests there and I do believe the Old Katie Bells served as a great marketing tool for that reason alone.

Now it is just a fine place to eat like many other places. I guess I am spoiled, but I expected it to be improved not diminished. Why didn't the raise the roof and keep it with two floors. Could have added a cover charge, entertainment charge etc to make it profitable.

Certainly the construction cost was already high with what they did to create retail rent.

[tomwed]

They tried that when they made the upstairs Cattle Baron. It was going to be for members only & you had to spend so much a month. Talk about a lot of angry people over that change !!! Needless to say, that didn't work.
I'm going out on a limb here. What year was that?

[Bonny]

I'm going out on a limb here. What year was that?
Maybe '03 or '04. Not quite sure. Everyone was up in arms about that one. LOL

[golf2140]

I believe that it was $300.00 to join the club.

[tomwed]

I believe that it was $300.00 to join the club.
What did you get for the money?
How many people lived here at that time?

[Bonny]

I believe you to commit to spending so much money per month.
Maybe 40,000 people give or take several thousand. LOL ;)

[JoMar]

Sounds like they tried the Country Club model. You pay for access, then pay for everything else, food, drinks entertainment. If it failed in '03 or '04 I doubt it would succeed in 16 or 17. Theory and desires are great until we actually have to open the checkbook. What we want and what we will pay for are usually miles apart.

[Skip]

I'm going out on a limb here. What year was that?
Maybe '03 or '04. Not quite sure. Everyone was up in arms about that one. LOL

You're way off. Cattle Baron's opened in 1997.
The "Member's Only" status lasted less than a year.

Skip

[Bonny]

You're way off. Cattle Baron's opened in 1997.
The "Member's Only" status lasted less than a year.

Skip
I originally said Katie Belles opened in 97.
We were living here when the members only Cattle Baron came about. We didn't move here til 2000. Cattle Baron might have been 2001 or 2002.
When we moved here, it was Katie Belles up & down. We used to go upstairs next to the bar & shoot pool.

[tomwed]

Rosie O'Gradys closed in 2001. The hoop de do review is running. The hoop is now $72 a ticket. Over the years I took my kids there. As adults we use to to Rosie's.

[Bonny]

Katie Belles opened just about 1997. It was Katie Belles up & down.
After a couple of years, the upstairs was called the "Key Club". It was still Katie Belles, but residents only. Same menu as downstairs.
About 2001 or 2002, they tried to transform the upstairs as more of a club. "Cattle Baron" would now be more of a private club. There was a fee to join & you had to spend so much money per month. That was short lived so they changed it to just more of a fine dining for residents.
Of course, during these times, we lost our pool table upstairs. There were various changes to the downstairs throughout the years. They took part of it for Chicos, took the railings down around the dance floor, etc.

We've seen so many changes. I remember when we would go to the seafood buffet at Hacienda Hills CC. The best ever. You had to wear a sport jacket to go there. :)