Why there are no high end restaurants here

[Chatbrat]

After seeing posts on other threat complaining that a burger @ $10.50 is too high and a person saying that 1/2 a portobello burger & a cup of soup is fine

I've got nothing more to say--but, you get what you don't want to pay for

[Golf View]

After seeing posts on other threat complaining that a burger @ $10.50 is too high and a person saying that 1/2 a portobello burger & a cup of soup is fine

I've got nothing more to say--but, you get what you don't want to pay for

Would you prefer a $20.00 burger? Does a higher price make it taste better?

[Two Bills]

After seeing posts on other threat complaining that a burger @ $10.50 is too high and a person saying that 1/2 a portobello burger & a cup of soup is fine

I've got nothing more to say--but, you get what you don't want to pay for

You seem to have a misguided belief, that high prices make a good menu, or are you just a food snob. :mmmm:

[Chatbrat]

No, but I would like a $50.00 cowboy bone in ribeye and a good bottle of Zinfandel, not the swill that most restaurants here call wine

[rivaridger1]

High end dining restaurants to a great extent are reliant on business managers utilizing expense accounts. I do not really believe the like of The Palm, Morton's, Ruth Chris, etc. could maintain their business models without them. There is no shortage of money in The Villages. If there were, we'd not have three financial advisory firms on every street in every town square and most of the professional centers. I just think the majority of the residents, even those with significant personal wealth, came up the " hard way " and are perfectly happy to eat a $ 10.00 hamburger with a beer as opposed to a $ 47.50 Porterhouse with an $ 70.00 bottle of wine. " Been there, done that " for a number of wealthy residents, has to have some application to the lack of high end dining. With that said, I'd love to see a consistent high end steak/ seafood restaurant within the boundaries of The Villages. I doubt though, even if any couple were to eat there a half dozen times a year, and spent $ 275 to 400, it would stay in business. The demographics and geometrics simply do not work.

[Chatbrat]

Build it & they will come

[Nucky]

With all due respect. What we have here if we compare it to a old very popular television show is MASH. We have the majority of the Villages Crew in search of the balance of a reasonable price and a decent meal and then we have Charles Emerson Winchester III. :mmmm:

[Two Bills]

No, but I would like a $50.00 cowboy bone in ribeye and a good bottle of Zinfandel, not the swill that most restaurants here call wine

Zinfandel!!! They use that for cooking in the cheaper restaurants don't they? :wine: :sigh:

[simpkinp]

After seeing posts on other threat complaining that a burger @ $10.50 is too high and a person saying that 1/2 a portobello burger & a cup of soup is fine

I've got nothing more to say--but, you get what you don't want to pay for

Hey, I was talking about a lunch with neighbors, not a dinner. And I said the restaurant was empty. What I pay for a casual lunch with dinner is a far cry from what I would pay for a good dinner. IMHO The only place in TV that serves a good dinner is Lopez. Plan on $50 pp. Not big city gourmet, but good. It's just food. BTW! Many places will allow you to bring your own wine for a mere $10 corkage fee. Even Red Sauce for darn. Just ask.

[permanentvacation]

Go ask the people that live in the million dollar homes where they eat. They don't overpay and the don't eat crap...but you may have to drive a little.

[kcrazorbackfan]

Wow! What is up with some of you people? Food is food. I can eat a McDonald's burger and I'll bet you anything it will turn into crap and flush down a toilet just like a $10.50 burger or a $50 steak.

I like food, but damn, food is food. Fine dining is salmon patties, fried potatoes, collard greens, purple hull peas, cornbread and iced tea; I need to invite some of y'all over for "fine dining southern style".

[rubicon]

Wow! What is up with some of you people? Food is food. I can eat a McDonald's burger and I'll bet you anything it will turn into crap and flush down a toilet just like a $10.50 burger or a $50 steak.

I like food, but damn, food is food. Fine dining is salmon patties, fried potatoes, collard greens, purple hull peas, cornbread and iced tea; I need to invite some of y'all over for "fine dining southern style".

kcrazorbackfan: Yep I call it peasant food.

What you are witnessing on these pages is an example of Oscar Wilde's "Some people know the price of everything and the value of nothing"

[golfing eagles]

Wow! What is up with some of you people? Food is food. I can eat a McDonald's burger and I'll bet you anything it will turn into crap and flush down a toilet just like a $10.50 burger or a $50 steak.

I like food, but damn, food is food. Fine dining is salmon patties, fried potatoes, collard greens, purple hull peas, cornbread and iced tea; I need to invite some of y'all over for "fine dining southern style".

I think it's what happens between the lips and the other end that makes the deal for most people:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[Chatbrat]

To-twoBills--there are two types of Zinfandel--Pink & Red--the pink is the cheap stuff sometimes used for cooking--an average good bottle of Red Zinfandel hovers around $20.00/ retail--which means it would cost at least $50.00 in a restaurant

[rubicon]

After seeing posts on other threat complaining that a burger @ $10.50 is too high and a person saying that 1/2 a portobello burger & a cup of soup is fine

I've got nothing more to say--but, you get what you don't want to pay for

This is about the fourth time you posted about your disappointment that The Villages does not have any high end restaurants. You may want to do a survey via local publications to see if there is a demand/market. You may want to speak with the District to see if the annual survey they do has indicated such a demand/market. And included in your inquiry ask if any high end restaurant have entered competition in this community.

Good Luck

[dewilson58]

Go ask the people that live in the million dollar homes where they eat. They don't overpay and the don't eat crap...but you may have to drive a little.

I mostly eat at home. Thanks for asking.

[2BNTV]

We all know that one of the down sides to TV is lack of fine dining but that is sometimes in the eye of the beholder.

There are several restaurants near TV who have better dining options. I one for, don't seem to be too picky and enjoy most meals in TV.

It somewhat depends if one is willing to go outside the bubble to sample some of the other food choices.

To each their own.

[simpkinp]

Wow! What is up with some of you people? Food is food. I can eat a McDonald's burger and I'll bet you anything it will turn into crap and flush down a toilet just like a $10.50 burger or a $50 steak.

I like food, but damn, food is food. Fine dining is salmon patties, fried potatoes, collard greens, purple hull peas, cornbread and iced tea; I need to invite some of y'all over for "fine dining southern style".

I agree 100%. We all have our food preferences. What is important to me is enjoying food with my friends. And we all know the result of food after it passes through the alimentary canal. It's just not a big deal to most of us. Maybe you should have taken that into consideration when you bought here. A more metropolitan area may have suited you better. I doubt you will find what you want here, but it is only an hour or two away.

[graciegirl]

Chatbrat. Good heavens. Most people, even those with a few extra bucks, got here because they were careful with their money. Going out to a more expensive restaurant for most of us was a treat, not a nightly experience. The goal for a lot of us is to not outlive our last buck.

I find if I want a really good meal, I cook it.

Stop already. Bragging about money almost always ****es people off.

[Spikearoni]

After seeing posts on other threat complaining that a burger @ $10.50 is too high and a person saying that 1/2 a portobello burger & a cup of soup is fine

I've got nothing more to say--but, you get what you don't want to pay for

We're going to Bern Steak House and you are welcome to join us but the only seats available are in the back of our
golf cart:thumbup:

[permanentvacation]

Whats for dinner?

[rubicon]

I mostly eat at home. Thanks for asking.

Yes, we do too.

[Love2Swim]

Build it & they will come

You are correct. The Rose Plantation is a new high end restaurant in Fruitland Park that is getting rave reviews, and is so busy you have to get dinner reservations way in advance.

[DigitalGranny]

Have found many good options for a nice lunch in The Villages. We mostly eat out at lunch and at home for a light dinner. When hubby and I want a really great meal, we cook at home. Valentine's Day, for example, we will again make a wonderful dinner at home with good wine and a sinful, chocolate dessert. We don't like the crowds of dinner out on that day.

[npwalters]

No, but I would like a $50.00 cowboy bone in ribeye and a good bottle of Zinfandel, not the swill that most restaurants here call wine

I think the fallacy in your statement is equating price with quality. A good steak is a good steak regardless if you paid 25 bucks or overpaid 50 bucks for it. We are fortunate enough that we can pay 50 bucks for a steak if we choose to. We almost never do. My own steak off the grill is better.

Zinfandel......really?

[njbchbum]

I think the fallacy in your statement is equating price with quality. A good steak is a good steak regardless if you paid 25 bucks or overpaid 50 bucks for it. We are fortunate enough that we can pay 50 bucks for a steak if we choose to. We almost never do. My own steak off the grill is better.

Zinfandel......really?

Wish there was a 'like' button for your post! :)

[Steve9930]

Hey, I'd be more then happy to have you over for diner. I'll cook that $15 dollar steak and charge you $50 and I'll get the $20 bottle of wine and charge you $70. Sounds like a deal to me...... The best meals I've ever had were in places you'd think twice about going through the door. The only thing I've ever received that's high end in some of these restaurants was a high $$$$ Bill and little food.

[Chatbrat]

The Rose Plantation is taking reservations-for two weeks out--again--build it and they will come !!

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

I think that the answer to your question is that they wouldn't succeed.

The ""Rose Plantation in Fruitland Park seems to be doing OK right now, but we'll have to see if it lasts. I think that it's way too much money for most Villagers except for a special occasion.

When new place like that opens, there is a lot of excitement and people want top try it. But the real test is whether it can survive for the long term. After the try out period is over, are there enough people here that will continue to go there on a regular basis?

[Sandtrap328]

No "high end" restaurant would survive because of the attitude of so many Villagers. The "entitled " attitude of doing things their own way.

Prime example - a group of around 8 ladies go to Glenview for lunch. They all ask for water and then stir in their Crystal Light lemonade. The server informs the manager who tells the ladies they will have to pay 75 cents for the water. They all get angry and are yelling about how unfair this is. Just plain CHEAP!

A couple will easily spend $175 plus tax and 20% tip at Ruth Chris. But how many times per month? Restaraunts have to be making a profit all the time and when snowbirds leave, the money stops being spent. 5 good months does not make a profitable year.

[golf2140]

The Rose Plantation is taking reservations-for two weeks out--again--build it and they will come !!

Why must some folks act like snobs. We dine out 5 to 6 nights per week. Tonight was $90.00 for two with drinks. Tomorrow may be $40.00. So give us a break

[ColdNoMore]

Why are there no Bugatti Veyron dealers, or certified service shops, near The Villages?

Why should I have to take mine to Miami to be serviced?

[Polar Bear]

Why must some folks act like snobs...
Personally I think the answer is...they're not acting.

[rubicon]

In post #12 again "some people know the price of everything and the value of nothing" Oscar Wilde.

With 1st home in 1978 purchased an above ground pool. the neighbor behind me was keep up with the jones kind of guy. so he bought a pool also. He then coaxed his young son to say. Mr. rubicon we paid more for our pool then you did."I replied God I hope so".

In every publication I have ever concerning mistakes made in retirement planning "going out to eat"always seem to be in the top tier of mistakes.

[stan the man]

I really was hoping there was a "white castle" in the area

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

No "high end" restaurant would survive because of the attitude of so many Villagers. The "entitled " attitude of doing things their own way.

Prime example - a group of around 8 ladies go to Glenview for lunch. They all ask for water and then stir in their Crystal Light lemonade. The server informs the manager who tells the ladies they will have to pay 75 cents for the water. They all get angry and are yelling about how unfair this is. Just plain CHEAP!

A couple will easily spend $175 plus tax and 20% tip at Ruth Chris. But how many times per month? Restaraunts have to be making a profit all the time and when snowbirds leave, the money stops being spent. 5 good months does not make a profitable year.
Not necessarily true. There are plenty of successful businesses here that survive on 5 months of great revenue and then run specials to stay afloat in the off season. That's pretty much the same in many parts of the country. Golf courses up north really have about 5-6 months where they really have to make it. Tat same can be said for ski resorts. Some go to another type of business in the off season. I had a friend that owned a driving range in Massachusetts. He sold Christmas trees in December and then took a couple months off.
It is probably more true that a high end restaurant might have more difficulty surviving the summers, because I would say that overall the snowbirds have more money than the year round residents. I think that a lot of us, not all, would be snowbirds if we could afford it. Many of the year round residents simply cannot afford to own two homes.

[graciegirl]

I really was hoping there was a "white castle" in the area

Now we're talkin'.

My first sojourn to fine dining as a child.

YES.

[Henryk]

...
Prime example - a group of around 8 ladies go to Glenview for lunch. They all ask for water and then stir in their Crystal Light lemonade. The server informs the manager who tells the ladies they will have to pay 75 cents for the water. They all get angry and are yelling about how unfair this is. Just plain CHEAP!...

Talk about rude! No class.

[Chatbrat]

Same go for the big groups who use their own mini-bottles to freshen their drinks--happens a lot in the breeze ways

[kcrazorbackfan]

I really was hoping there was a "white castle" in the area

:agree: Oh, man, those belly bombers are great.

[rubicon]

Economics 101 supply and demand elasticity thereof.

My first Celebrity cruise was pure pleasure and memorable in every detail.

My second while not a hitch still resulted in buyers remorse.

Eating out to treat oneself. So choose wisely. However, I do not think so much of myself that I should be treated too often. Its flawed I know but honestly I would not do well as a multi-millionaire. Its not about the money, its one's basic belief

An egg and olive sandwich and a good book is so satisifying

[ttown]

The Villages has had high end restaurants. At various times in the past OB, Hacienda and Katie Belles tried high end. None were able to succeed.

[Cedwards38]

Low demand.

[graciegirl]

economics 101 supply and demand elasticity thereof.

My first celebrity cruise was pure pleasure and memorable in every detail.

My second while not a hitch still resulted in buyers remorse.

Eating out to treat oneself. So choose wisely. However, i do not think so much of myself that i should be treated too often. Its flawed i know but honestly i would not do well as a multi-millionaire. Its not about the money, its one's basic belief

an egg and olive sandwich and a good book is so satisfying


Where is the like button?

[graciegirl]

For a simple meal, a wonderful salad (with house dressing, a sweet poppy seed) A perfect crepe, good sausage and perfectly prepared eggs, go to the new Bob Evans near you. You may not try it because they don't serve alcohol, but the breakfast is so good sometimes for dinner. Also try the bean soup and half a roast beef sandwich. This is simple farmland cooking from Ohio. OH...and the pie. Wonderful cakebreads too.

[DonH57]

Now we're talkin'.

My first sojourn to fine dining as a child.

YES.

Miss White Castle for sure. I hate getting them frozen at Publix. Really miss Skyline Chili!:thumbup:

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

Why are there no Bugatti Veyron dealers, or certified service shops, near The Villages?

Why should I have to take mine to Miami to be serviced?

The real question is why is there no Lexus dealer and service center here. I see thousands of Lexus' here.

[justjim]

Wow! What is up with some of you people? Food is food. I can eat a McDonald's burger and I'll bet you anything it will turn into crap and flush down a toilet just like a $10.50 burger or a $50 steak.

I like food, but damn, food is food. Fine dining is salmon patties, fried potatoes, collard greens, purple hull peas, cornbread and iced tea; I need to invite some of y'all over for "fine dining southern style".

I like your meal and there are lots of good southern "fine dining". Ham & beans, fried potatoes, Polk, fried corn bread and ice tea. For dessert, fried apricot pie. Don't get any finer!

[Chatbrat]

MB of Gainesville does it right-come to your house with a loner takes your car & returns it when service is done--closed on our last two cars in our house, salesperson delivered the car to our house- really hate sitting around a dealer while they do their paperwork nonsense.

[Henryk]

Miss White Castle for sure. I hate getting them frozen at Publix. Really miss Skyline Chili!:thumbup:

Who is Miss White Castle?

[Chatbrat]

Lexus =Toyota with bling

[asianthree]

We do enjoy a restaurant that has good quality food, not out of a box or frozen. We rarely order wine out the mark up to drink inexpensive wine just isn't worth it.

We do frequent the culinary school that has very good multi course meals paired with wine or crafted cocktail's. We know the director and head chef, and enjoy watching the group of young chefs crafting their skills. Once a month we have her come to our home, teaching skills, and preparing about four dinners for the week. It's remarkable food and a learning experience that we use often. Processed fast food is just not right for us, we grow most of our veggies in containers, and our meat comes from a small farm that we have raised, and butchered.

So I guess there are some that would think we are food snobs, because of what we choose to put on our table.

[Polar Bear]

...So I guess there are some that would think we are food snobs, because of what we choose to put on our table.
I wouldn't...as long as you don't judge others because they eat differently. :)

[golfing eagles]

Who is Miss White Castle?

Cinderella's 3rd grade teacher:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[SALYBOW]

I guess there might be a need for one or two high end restaurants but for most people who go out to dinner 3-5 times a week do not want to pay 50+ per night, There is a far cry more call for reasonably prices restaurants. Look at the new Bob Evans. It is crowded constantly. I just went to Polly Pantry today and it was packed even at 2:30. I venture to say that a high end restaurant would not have been so crowded.
We might go to a high end restaurant once or twice a year, but probably not too much more. Just because a restaurant is not low end dose not means it will not have some very tasty food. My hubby and I have been getting the Veal Parmigiana at Mezza Luna in Colony and we love it. It comes with good soup, or a marginally good salad, cappelinni, or garlic mashed potatoes and bread. :bigbow:

[pooh]

High end restaurants also have high end expenses....and without the possibility of restaurants being filled with customers each night, why would they even consider locating in an area where the customer base lives in a retirement community. Exceptional beef costs, local, table farm to table veggies are a bit more expensive than ones from Publix or Winn Dixie, staff, enough for the entire restaurant during all hours open, sous chef, executive chef, managers, bartenders, all cost and if there are insufficient customers to cover these expenses and make a profit for the company, why come to the area.

Wait and see...if and when a Costco and/or Trader Joe's establishes their presence in the area, a higher end restaurant will arrive. As others have mentioned, how often might individuals want to spend hundreds of dollars to eat out one, two, three times a week.

[asianthree]

I wouldn't...as long as you don't judge others because they eat differently. :)

i know it's hard to eat processed free food, it takes planning, just like keeping a kosher kitchen, it's about how you were raised. Never mentioned judging people, your words not mine, my post was just how we prepare our food and enjoy a good meal.

[kcrazorbackfan]

I like your meal and there are lots of good southern "fine dining". Ham & beans, fried potatoes, Polk, fried corn bread and ice tea. For dessert, fried apricot pie. Don't get any finer!

:agree: :icon_hungry: Now you're talking; good ole southern food!!

[Polar Bear]

...Never mentioned judging people, your words not mine, my post was just how we prepare our food and enjoy a good meal.
And I never attributed my words to you.

It was simply my observation related to what could easily have been interpreted as a rather condescending post.

[graciegirl]

My favorite go to comfort food. Salmon patties. (Grew up far from where fresh salmon was caught)

1 can red or pink salmon drained.
1 generous tablespoon finely minced onion
1 egg beaten
1/2 sleeve Ritz cracker smushed.

Mix with hands and make into patties. (Makes three nice sized ones)

Fry in thin amount of Wesson oil. About five minutes each side.

Must serve with Ketchup.

We always ate with Peas and Mashed potatoes.

The three of us love this meal.

[asianthree]

[QUOTE=Polar Bear;1356170]And I never attributed my words to you.

It was simply my observation related to what could easily have been interpreted as a rather condescending post.[/QUOTE



I guess trying keep a healthy and kosher lifestyle can be condescending, to some, and apologize for upsetting so many about how we raise and prepare food. Ya know like growing our own veggies, and not getting our meat from a grocery. Having someone teach us to prepare food, that keeps with our beliefs.
A PM I have received asked me not so politely to consider dropping out of this site. Thank you for pointing out my improprieties, if it would have not been for you I would not have realized how much I offend people. I am done.

[ColdNoMore]

I guess trying keep a healthy and kosher lifestyle can be condescending, to some, and apologize for upsetting so many about how we raise and prepare food. Ya know like growing our own veggies, and not getting our meat from a grocery. Having someone teach us to prepare food, that keeps with our beliefs.
A PM I have received asked me not so politely to consider dropping out of this site. Thank you for pointing out my improprieties, if it would have not been for you I would not have realized how much I offend people. I am done.

Please don't leave, you're just as entitled to your opinion as anyone else and if someone can't handle them...that's their problem. :mad:

Don't let the bullies win. :ho:

[Polar Bear]

Please don't leave, you're just as entitled to your opinion as anyone else and if someone can't handle them...that's their problem. :mad:

Don't let the bullies win. :ho:
Gotta agree with CNM on this one...which I don't do all that often. ;)

[NYGUY]

Gotta agree with CNM on this one...

I also agree, please stay....your opinion is important!!

[Henryk]

[QUOTE=Polar Bear;1356170]And I never attributed my words to you.

It was simply my observation related to what could easily have been interpreted as a rather condescending post.[/QUOTE



I guess trying keep a healthy and kosher lifestyle can be condescending, to some, and apologize for upsetting so many about how we raise and prepare food. Ya know like growing our own veggies, and not getting our meat from a grocery. Having someone teach us to prepare food, that keeps with our beliefs.
A PM I have received asked me not so politely to consider dropping out of this site. Thank you for pointing out my improprieties, if it would have not been for you I would not have realized how much I offend people. I am done.

I have read, but cannot figure out, who was so offended, nor why, for that matter. What improprieties?? What offenses??

Please. Don't go. There are a very few vulgar folks here. Ignore them.

[Nucky]

A damned shame. I hope Asianthree will reconsider and come back to us.

[600th Photo Sq]

You are correct. The Rose Plantation is a new high end restaurant in Fruitland Park that is getting rave reviews, and is so busy you have to get dinner reservations way in advance.

I am surprised> I got in touch with the owner via Email concerning there very limited Wine list. In particular Sauvignon Blanc ( New Zealand ) they sell it by the glass $8.00 ..Kim Crawford but not the bottle..A total rip off.

The menu is limited and close @8:00pm..I'll give them a pass and go to Bonefish, Hemingway, Lopez..

Looking @the Rose Plantation menu..not impressed.

[Skip]

You are correct. The Rose Plantation is a new high end restaurant in Fruitland Park that is getting rave reviews, and is so busy you have to get dinner reservations way in advance.

Way in advance?
They only take reservations for this week and next week.
Can't reserve for your birthday dinner next month.
Either they have a very small reservation book or they think they might not be around long.
Don't know what that's all about.

Skip

[SALYBOW]

Amen!

[SALYBOW]

What is the recipe for an Olive sandwich? Sounds delicious!

[SALYBOW]

Who is Miss White Castle?

I too miss White Castle, I miss Frischs' Big Boy also, but am happy I can get the Tartar sauce taste at Burger Station in the Shell station in Colony. Yummy. Most of all though, I miss SKYLINE so I am with you there.:mmmm::mmmm::mmmm:

[IndianaJones]

It's 35-40 minutes to Mark's Prime Steakhouse in Ocala - there are high-end restaurants all around TV. If you're on the south end, it's not that far to Winter Park, Winter Garden - even Mt. Dora has a couple of decent places. If you want a "dining experience", you can find it (and pay for it). I taught business for years, and of course, the restaurant business is one of the toughest out there - everyone so far is correct, TV's populace won't support a Ruth Chris or Morton's on a year-round basis. It's like putting another pizza joint in a college town - the fall, winter & spring are great, but the summers are murder for them, including the difficulty in getting & keeping good help! There IS life "outside the bubble" - go explore!

[Sandtrap328]

It's 35-40 minutes to Mark's Prime Steakhouse in Ocala - there are high-end restaurants all around TV. If you're on the south end, it's not that far to Winter Park, Winter Garden - even Mt. Dora has a couple of decent places. If you want a "dining experience", you can find it (and pay for it). I taught business for years, and of course, the restaurant business is one of the toughest out there - everyone so far is correct, TV's populace won't support a Ruth Chris or Morton's on a year-round basis. It's like putting another pizza joint in a college town - the fall, winter & spring are great, but the summers are murder for them, including the difficulty in getting & keeping good help! There IS life "outside the bubble" - go explore!


Excellent post!

Orlando has some really fine restaurants. A great time to try them is September during their Magical Dining Month. A special 3 course meal at over 100 restaurants for $35.

The Capitol Grill, Roy's, Eddie V's, Emeril's, and others are among the fine dining experiences you can enjoy.

[Bonny]

I always wonder why some people have to brag about money.
What's nice is we can all spend money on things that are important to us.
We love to travel so that's where we like to spend our money. We can't eat big meals like we used to so sometimes we're good with appetizers. If I get a meal, it always ends up coming home with me.
I have had many expensive wines. I actually like some of the less expensive wines. I'm a Napa Valley kind of girl. :D

[jclrxman]

I agree.Build them and they will come

[mrsanborn]

If a high end restaurant does come to The Villages, will service dogs be required to wear ties?

[lanabanana73]

We do enjoy a restaurant that has good quality food, not out of a box or frozen. We rarely order wine out the mark up to drink inexpensive wine just isn't worth it.

We do frequent the culinary school that has very good multi course meals paired with wine or crafted cocktail's. We know the director and head chef, and enjoy watching the group of young chefs crafting their skills. Once a month we have her come to our home, teaching skills, and preparing about four dinners for the week. It's remarkable food and a learning experience that we use often. Processed fast food is just not right for us, we grow most of our veggies in containers, and our meat comes from a small farm that we have raised, and butchered.

So I guess there are some that would think we are food snobs, because of what we choose to put on our table.

Where is there a culinary school? That sounds fabulous!

[biker1]

It is often true that those who brag about money don't really have much. Those who don't say much generally do. It is a matter of how you were raised.

I always wonder why some people have to brag about money.
What's nice is we can all spend money on things that are important to us.
We love to travel so that's where we like to spend our money. We can't eat big meals like we used to so sometimes we're good with appetizers. If I get a meal, it always ends up coming home with me.
I have had many expensive wines. I actually like some of the less expensive wines. I'm a Napa Valley kind of girl. :D

[Hummintwo]

Well hear ye, hear ye, what about the hard work dedicated, loyal employee that never earned more than $50,000 a year in earnings, has a spouse, children they raised themselves, were supportive and helpful friends to their neighbors, may or may not have a church affiliation but a good American that contributed much in their lives and would love to enjoy the Villages lifestyle and not worry that occasional eating out will cost them a months pension. For those who can, go ahead spend the bucks just don't expect to shut out the rest of residents because they can't and won't. I now step down off my soapbox. Just having too much fun reading the really hilarious responses. I wish I said at least half of them.

[Love2Swim]

After reading a lot of these posts, it is clear that a lot of Villagers feel threatened if someone voices an opinion that is in some way critical of The Villages, in this case that there isn't much fine dining here. That is okay. You may not realize it, but The Villages is not perfect. But live in your dream world. People who do appreciate fine dining will find it in other places, like Ocala, Orlando, Mt. Dora, and the like. As a Villages resident, I just wish I didn't have to drive so far.

[collie1228]

High end dining restaurants to a great extent are reliant on business managers utilizing expense accounts. I do not really believe the like of The Palm, Morton's, Ruth Chris, etc. could maintain their business models without them. There is no shortage of money in The Villages. If there were, we'd not have three financial advisory firms on every street in every town square and most of the professional centers. I just think the majority of the residents, even those with significant personal wealth, came up the " hard way " and are perfectly happy to eat a $ 10.00 hamburger with a beer as opposed to a $ 47.50 Porterhouse with an $ 70.00 bottle of wine. " Been there, done that " for a number of wealthy residents, has to have some application to the lack of high end dining. With that said, I'd love to see a consistent high end steak/ seafood restaurant within the boundaries of The Villages. I doubt though, even if any couple were to eat there a half dozen times a year, and spent $ 275 to 400, it would stay in business. The demographics and geometrics simply do not work.

This post is absolutely correct. Without expense account customers, high end restaurants will not be able to operate here. I really miss my expense account with a Fortune 500 company, and admit that I spent way more on food and drink on expense account than I ever did (do) on my own nickel. Human nature I guess.

[Sandtrap328]

The Lopez CC is definitely the best restaurant in The Villages both in food and in service.

[kcrazorbackfan]

The Lopez CC is definitely the best restaurant in The Villages both in food and in service.

For me, Cane Garden has the best food and service. We play golf at every championship course and eat after every round; CG hands down the best; just my opinion, to each their own.

[dewilson58]

For me, Cane Garden has the best food and service. We play golf at every championship course and eat after every round; CG hands down the best; just my opinion, to each their own.

Hate to admit it, but a couple months ago was the first time we went to CG. Loved it. The service as great (fun people working there) and we went back the next night.

I need to get out more. :lipsrsealed:

[carlosinthevillages]

Why dont we open a high end resturant?

[rivaridger1]

:yuck: When I was fifteen I started my working career in a high end restaurant washing dishes and emptying the garbage can into a dumpster when finished with that. Usually got home at 1:00 PM in the morning. Sorry, but 55 years have since passed and I do not feel like starting over. Will have to pass on this opportunity.:D

[Sandtrap328]

For me, Cane Garden has the best food and service. We play golf at every championship course and eat after every round; CG hands down the best; just my opinion, to each their own.

Cane Garden is excellent! I have never been disappointed there. The noise level can be a little too high when it is full but I still really like it.

However, Lopez is a little more high end in quality, service, and ambiance.

Both are great!!

[Shimpy]

How often would a resident use a high end restaurant? Maybe a couple times a year. For most including myself rarely or never. That wouldn't support a restaurant. It would need tourists that would spend on vacation way above what they normally would to add to their vacation experience. This isn't a tourist area.
South Florida in the 50's had many high end restaurants that would close all summer long and only open in the winter tourist season. This was true of the top hotels also. They made their money in the winter when the well-to-do spent their winter on Miami Beach. The horse and dog racing tracks brought a huge number of gamblers.
Years later they promoted summer and cut prices drastically to stay open year around.

[Golf View]

Why dont we open a high end resturant?

Sounds good Carlos, how much are you willing to invest?

[EnglishJW]

Why are there no Bugatti Veyron dealers, or certified service shops, near The Villages?

Why should I have to take mine to Miami to be serviced?

I'll drive it down for you. You do have ePass right?

[EnglishJW]

It's 35-40 minutes to Mark's Prime Steakhouse in Ocala - there are high-end restaurants all around TV. If you're on the south end, it's not that far to Winter Park, Winter Garden - even Mt. Dora has a couple of decent places. If you want a "dining experience", you can find it (and pay for it). I taught business for years, and of course, the restaurant business is one of the toughest out there - everyone so far is correct, TV's populace won't support a Ruth Chris or Morton's on a year-round basis. It's like putting another pizza joint in a college town - the fall, winter & spring are great, but the summers are murder for them, including the difficulty in getting & keeping good help! There IS life "outside the bubble" - go explore!

I agree completely with this post. It seems clear that there isn't enough demand within TV for some of the high end restaurants that have been mentioned. Nonetheless, there are special occasions when a really great restaurant is what any of us might prefer. We leave TV for these evenings - Turners and Rose Plantation are nearby, Goblin Market isn't far plus there are many options in Ocala, Gainseville, Orlando, etc. We regularly go to Disney World just for dinner and maybe to see the fireworks. It is just over an hour away.

Each of us has different tastes and, on any given day, we might be looking for something special. Some nights, Wendy's chili might be just what we crave.

[banjobob]

I guess high end means small portion and large price, with all the service falling over themselves to add to your water glass the fancy tableware and cloths overkill from wait staff awesome atmosphere There are snobs among us but I think for the most part good service good food and a reasonable atmosphere is all that is needed for successful restaurants. Oh sure there are plenty of people with their stash of coupons and doing the bogo meals and taking the free one home for later or splitting dinners . I have eaten in those high end restaurants and frankly was not that impressed to want to use them on any kind of regular basis, special occasions when you really want to boost your ego is OK , no thrill for me in 100 150 dollar dinners or more.

[DonH57]

I guess high end means small portion and large price, with all the service falling over themselves to add to your water glass the fancy tableware and cloths overkill from wait staff awesome atmosphere There are snobs among us but I think for the most part good service good food and a reasonable atmosphere is all that is needed for successful restaurants. Oh sure there are plenty of people with their stash of coupons and doing the bogo meals and taking the free one home for later or splitting dinners . I have eaten in those high end restaurants and frankly was not that impressed to want to use them on any kind of regular basis, special occasions when you really want to boost your ego is OK , no thrill for me in 100 150 dollar dinners or more.

No thrills in those 100 to 150 dollar dinners for us either. We want a decent filling meal at a decent price and decent service.

[permanentvacation]

No thrills in those 100 to 150 dollar dinners for us either. We want a decent filling meal at a decent price and decent service.

Add a strong drink please.:evil6:

[yesi3putt2]

For a simple meal, a wonderful salad (with house dressing, a sweet poppy seed) A perfect crepe, good sausage and perfectly prepared eggs, go to the new Bob Evans near you. You may not try it because they don't serve alcohol, but the breakfast is so good sometimes for dinner. Also try the bean soup and half a roast beef sandwich. This is simple farmland cooking from Ohio. OH...and the pie. Wonderful cakebreads too.
My favorite breakfast ever...grill fried cornmeal mush/butter /syrup and sausage patties...as a kid growing up my Mom always had a bread tin of cornmeal mush in the fridge..I'd cut a couple slices and fry it up..mmmmm..Bob Evans is the only restaurant that I'v found in Fla that serves it ..mmmmm

[THUNDERCHIEF]

Go to orlando to shula's steak house. You can get a $ 50 dollar steak there, or you can go to alphie's in oaklawaha and get a 18oz. Prime rib for $ 20 bucks there really great

[EPutnam1863]

All of these postings remind me of Cracker Barrel. We stopped at one somewhere along I-95, and I ordered Swedish pancakes. When the dish was brought to me, I nearly had a heart attack. The pancakes were swimming in one inch of melted butter. I asked the waitress if she had not heard of the ongoing cholesterol problem. She answered with "This is what the senior citizens around here want."

[JoMar]

I guess high end means small portion and large price, with all the service falling over themselves to add to your water glass the fancy tableware and cloths overkill from wait staff awesome atmosphere There are snobs among us but I think for the most part good service good food and a reasonable atmosphere is all that is needed for successful restaurants. Oh sure there are plenty of people with their stash of coupons and doing the bogo meals and taking the free one home for later or splitting dinners . I have eaten in those high end restaurants and frankly was not that impressed to want to use them on any kind of regular basis, special occasions when you really want to boost your ego is OK , no thrill for me in 100 150 dollar dinners or more.

Which is the reason high end doesn't exist here.

[Abigal]

The Morse Family have private eatery upstairs in Sumter Landing. Mostly all their food I guess comes from Fresh Harvest Food Store, and I'm sure they have a top notch chef. So good luck for us.

[dillywho]

I always wonder why some people have to brag about money.
What's nice is we can all spend money on things that are important to us.
We love to travel so that's where we like to spend our money. We can't eat big meals like we used to so sometimes we're good with appetizers. If I get a meal, it always ends up coming home with me.
I have had many expensive wines. I actually like some of the less expensive wines. I'm a Napa Valley kind of girl. :D

Bonny, you have been here longer than we have, so I have a question for you. Wasn't the restaurant at the Hacienda CC called The Palm, Palm, or Palms? We never ate there because it was a coat and tie, somewhat semi-formal place. I just remember that it didn't last, but then I don't know how long it had been there, either. The only places like that that I remember from back home were the country clubs and they were high-dollar to join, then you paid dues monthly including dining charges whether you ate there or not. Being cattle country, it was not hard to find a great steak other places.

Believe it or not, seafood was actually excellent and much more reasonable there than here in Florida, which totally surprised us. My favorite is still the Tex-Mex from places there like Paradise Too and Abuello's. Mmmm!:icon_hungry:

[Bogie Shooter]

The Morse Family have private eatery upstairs in Sumter Landing. Mostly all their food I guess comes from Fresh Harvest Food Store, and I'm sure they have a top notch chef. So good luck for us.

You guess? How are you sure they have a top notch chef?
So what?
How does this all relate to this thread?

[Bonny]

Bonny, you have been here longer than we have, so I have a question for you. Wasn't the restaurant at the Hacienda CC called The Palm, Palm, or Palms? We never ate there because it was a coat and tie, somewhat semi-formal place. I just remember that it didn't last, but then I don't know how long it had been there, either. The only places like that that I remember from back home were the country clubs and they were high-dollar to join, then you paid dues monthly including dining charges whether you ate there or not. Being cattle country, it was not hard to find a great steak other places.

Believe it or not, seafood was actually excellent and much more reasonable there than here in Florida, which totally surprised us. My favorite is still the Tex-Mex from places there like Paradise Too and Abuello's. Mmmm!:icon_hungry:

Yes, I remember it well. They had extra jackets and ties for people who came in without them. Loved the Sunday buffet!! It had it's time and was good while it lasted. I agree, I think our seafood in Michigan was delicious and usually cheaper than Florida.

[Bonny]

The Morse Family have private eatery upstairs in Sumter Landing. Mostly all their food I guess comes from Fresh Harvest Food Store, and I'm sure they have a top notch chef. So good luck for us.
Not understanding why you posted this. What do you mean "good luck for us" & what is Fresh Harvest Food Store?

[Sandtrap328]

Not understanding why you posted this. What do you mean "good luck for us" & what is Fresh Harvest Food Store?

I am guessing she means Fresh Market - but who knows?

It is no secret there is a private club on the second floor of Redsauce. Have a member sponsor you, pay the membership fee and you can eat up there, too.

Personally, I am happy at Cody's with their good food and two for one drinks!

[Barefoot]

All of these postings remind me of Cracker Barrel. We stopped at one somewhere along I-95, and I ordered Swedish pancakes. When the dish was brought to me, I nearly had a heart attack. The pancakes were swimming in one inch of melted butter. I asked the waitress if she had not heard of the ongoing cholesterol problem. She answered with "This is what the senior citizens around here want."

Don't leave us in suspense. Did you pour off the butter and eat the Swedish pancakes?

The Morse Family have private eatery upstairs in Sumter Landing. Mostly all their food I guess comes from Fresh Harvest Food Store, and I'm sure they have a top notch chef. So good luck for us.

Not understanding why you posted this. What do you mean "good luck for us" & what is Fresh Harvest Food Store?

I had exactly the same questions. :confused:

[Polar Bear]

...their food I guess comes from Fresh Harvest Food Store, and I'm sure they have a top notch chef. So good luck for us.
What the...?? :confused:

[Cedwards38]

The Top Ten Reasons Why There Are No High End Restaurants In The Villages

10. None of the Villages men own long pants.
9. Not that many people understand French.
8. Everything is too expensive, no matter what it costs.
7. We wouldn't have anything to complain about.
6. High end doesn't serve dinner at 4:00 PM.
5. High end doesn't stock the boxes of wine we love.
4. Servers would expect a tip.
3. Chateaubriand doesn't go that well with Bud Light.
2. You can't get fries with the entrees.
1. Most of us can't tell the difference.

ALERT: The above are intended to add humor. As jokes they should not be taken seriously or in any way assumed that they are intended to offend the residents of The Villages.........no matter how true they may be!

[Carl in Tampa]

OK, help me understand what you consider a "high end" restaurant. I would think that the prices in some of the Country Clubs would be pushing toward "high end" prices, but still affordable. Is it price, or is it a matter of ambiance and presentation of the meal?

Let's take for example the Lunch and Dinner menus and prices of one of my favorite restaurants in Tampa. Please look at the food available and the prices and tell me if you consider this "high end" enough, or are you seeking something fancier.

Columbia Restaurant (http://www.columbiarestaurant.com/Menus-By-Location/Locations/Ybor-City-Historic-District)

And then take a look of one of the longest running and most successful steak houses in Tampa, and tell me if prices and presentations need to be at this level to be considered "high end."

Bern's Steak House - Our Steaks (http://www.bernssteakhouse.com/Our-Steaks/)

Which, if either, would you be inclined to frequent regularly if they had a presence in The Villages? Incidentally, the Columbia is a Spanish Cusine restaurant (not Mexican or Tex-Mex.) Bern's Steak House also has excellent fresh seafood.

[skip0358]

If you live here you should know why High End would only be for a select few and I'll bet there would still be complaints. I see very few people in TV that look like they're starving on what eateries we have available.If you wanted High end I guess you didn't do your homework before you moved here. As for the Private Restaurant above Red Sauce it's a place where those who belong can go and eat a privately cooked meal and not have to put up with someone recognizing them and having to listen to half the bull crap that's posted on TOTV. JMO

[Taltarzac725]

If you live here you should know why High End would only be for a select few and I'll bet there would still be complaints. I see very few people in TV that look like they're starving on what eateries we have available.If you wanted High end I guess you didn't do your homework before you moved here. As for the Private Restaurant above Red Sauce it's a place where those who belong can go and eat a privately cooked meal and not have to put up with someone recognizing them and having to listen to half the bull crap that's posted on TOTV. JMO

I wonder if they have an elevator up to there?

[JSR22]

I wonder if they have an elevator up to there?

There is an elevator and a staircase. The food is wonderful and definitely there is a chef.

[billethkid]

And there is no issue with pricing....no prices on the menu or the bars.....just great personalized service, very good food with amazing variety including game and fish items of the season. No waiting in line.....great atmosphere to sit and have a drink and talk before dinner......no hub bub of any kind.

Pay the bill at the end of the month when you get it.

Very demonstrable getting what you pay for......

[CWGUY]

If you live here you should know why High End would only be for a select few and I'll bet there would still be complaints. I see very few people in TV that look like they're starving on what eateries we have available.If you wanted High end I guess you didn't do your homework before you moved here. As for the Private Restaurant above Red Sauce it's a place where those who belong can go and eat a privately cooked meal and not have to put up with someone recognizing them and having to listen to half the bull crap that's posted on TOTV. JMO

:BigApplause:

[Henryk]

OK, help me understand what you consider a "high end" restaurant. I would think that the prices in some of the Country Clubs would be pushing toward "high end" prices, but still affordable. Is it price, or is it a matter of ambiance and presentation of the meal?

Let's take for example the Lunch and Dinner menus and prices of one of my favorite restaurants in Tampa. Please look at the food available and the prices and tell me if you consider this "high end" enough, or are you seeking something fancier.

Columbia Restaurant (http://www.columbiarestaurant.com/Menus-By-Location/Locations/Ybor-City-Historic-District)

And then take a look of one of the longest running and most successful steak houses in Tampa, and tell me if prices and presentations need to be at this level to be considered "high end."

Bern's Steak House - Our Steaks (http://www.bernssteakhouse.com/Our-Steaks/)

Which, if either, would you be inclined to frequent regularly if they had a presence in The Villages? Incidentally, the Columbia is a Spanish Cusine restaurant (not Mexican or Tex-Mex.) Bern's Steak House also has excellent fresh seafood.

Thank you for your post. I am salivating about Columbia and Bern's looks absolutely divine. Clearly Bern's prices are higher than Columbia. Columbia is not that expensive compared to mediocre restaurants in San Francisco and Boston. But I would certainly go for a special occasion--after fasting for three days first!

[NotGolfer]

The Top Ten Reasons Why There Are No High End Restaurants In The Villages

10. None of the Villages men own long pants.
9. Not that many people understand French.
8. Everything is too expensive, no matter what it costs.
7. We wouldn't have anything to complain about.
6. High end doesn't serve dinner at 4:00 PM.
5. High end doesn't stock the boxes of wine we love.
4. Servers would expect a tip.
3. Chateaubriand doesn't go that well with Bud Light.
2. You can't get fries with the entrees.
1. Most of us can't tell the difference.

ALERT: The above are intended to add humor. As jokes they should not be taken seriously or in any way assumed that they are intended to offend the residents of The Villages.........no matter how true they may be!

TOO funny with truth interspersed! LOLOL As for high end?? Maybe the two new restaurants that are coming that having well-known chef's names attached will satisfy the OP....or maybe that's not what they were referring to as high-end. Personally our household doesn't really care to eat where everything is ala carte and priced like a week's groceries. We'll stay home for that! :icon_hungry::icon_hungry: