Will the Villages ever bring back katie Belle's?

[dadspet]

The newer villagers probably haven't heard of Katie Belle's which was a Villager only unique 2 story country dance hall with 2 restaurants located in Spanish Springs. For many it was the place to go and bring out of town guests. Down stairs there was a large dance floor with a raised stage and casual dining around the floor to watch the dancers. Upstairs was a fine dinning restaurant “Cattle Barren” overlooking the dance floor. There was a live band everyday. Katie Belles was unique, everyone we knew loved it and I'm sure it had a lot to do with many of us buying our first home here; but for some reason The Villages closed it. In our opinion, and everyone else we talk to, it was and remains The Villages biggest mistake. I guess I should also say the Villages built an outstanding community and I don't think they make many mistakes. As The Villages grew, many hoped they would build a new Katie Belle's and it seemed like a wonderful location was Brownwood across the street from Blue Fin. Of course we know that isn't going to happen since we will be graced with some other restaurant serving health food I think. The excitement is really building on this!!!!

But, besides bringing back a sore subject for many, it turns out The Villages announced in today's (11/23/21) paper they are planning to put apartments in the Van Patten building were Katie Belle's was located.

Just wondering what others think about the old Katie Belle's and The Villages building a new one – Someplace? Who knows, maybe someone who counts will read this and listen. I think the advertisement value of Katie Belle's far exceeded the restaurant profit.

[JSR22]

The newer villagers probably haven't heard of Katie Belle's which was a Villager only unique 2 story country dance hall with 2 restaurants located in Spanish Springs. For many it was the place to go and bring out of town guests. Down stairs there was a large dance floor with a raised stage and casual dining around the floor to watch the dancers. Upstairs was a fine dinning restaurant “Cattle Barren” overlooking the dance floor. There was a live band everyday. Katie Belles was unique, everyone we knew loved it and I'm sure it had a lot to do with many of us buying our first home here; but for some reason The Villages closed it. In our opinion, and everyone else we talk to, it was and remains The Villages biggest mistake. I guess I should also say the Villages built an outstanding community and I don't think they make many mistakes. As The Villages grew, many hoped they would build a new Katie Belle's and it seemed like a wonderful location was Brownwood across the street from Blue Fin. Of course we know that isn't going to happen since we will be graced with some other restaurant serving health food I think. The excitement is really building on this!!!!

But, besides bringing back a sore subject for many, it turns out The Villages announced in today's (11/23/21) paper they are planning to put apartments in the Van Patten building were Katie Belle's was located.

Just wondering what others think about the old Katie Belle's and The Villages building a new one – Someplace? Who knows, maybe someone who counts will read this and listen. I think the advertisement value of Katie Belle's far exceeded the restaurant profit.

Katie Belle's downstairs was closed because it was not making a profit. The Cattle Baron was an okay restaurant not fine dining. The upstairs Katie Belle's restaurant was much better then the Cattle Baron and had good entertainment. Not enough people wanted to pay for shows and dinner.
The Harvest opening across from Blue Fin is not a health food restaurant. It will be a very good restaurant along the the lines of Blue Fin and Chop House.
When Katie Belle's was closed all furnishings were removed. There will be apts in the upstairs.
I can not fathom why rhey would reopen a business that is not profitable.

[billethkid]

Katie Belle's downstairs was closed because it was not making a profit. The Cattle Baron was an okay restaurant not fine dining. The upstairs Katie Belle's restaurant was much better then the Cattle Baron and had good entertainment. Not enough people wanted to pay for shows and dinner.
The Harvest opening across from Blue Fin is not a health food restaurant. It will be a very good restaurant along the the lines of Blue Fin and Chop House.
When Katie Belle's was closed all furnishings were removed. There will be apts in the upstairs.
I can not fathom why rhey would reopen a business that is not profitable.

Good business planning dictates cutting losses and do not repeat a losing venue!!

[Stu from NYC]

It closed before we move here but since it was losing money why would they bring it back?

[Two Bills]

My money is on the apartments, sooner, rather than later.

[JSR22]

My money is on the apartments, sooner, rather than later.

Absolutely!

[manaboutown]

I loved Katie Belle's down to its plastic beer mugs but Villagers did not spend enough there for it to remain open. R I P Katie Belle's

Who would want to rent an apartment there with all the noise and commotion every evening?

[rustyp]

It closed before we move here but since it was losing money why would they bring it back?

Not picking on you Stu. I have been here since 2005 and logged countless hours at KB's. Tony D (RIP) and I were on first name basis. No way did they fold because they couldn't make a profit. If that is so how can the other restaurants around the square survive when they have to pay rent and the developer didn't? No proof has ever been offered up in these countless conversations about this other than hearsay. From one who has some firsthand experience may I possibly suggest there was possibly a drug and prostitute problem that wasn't worth dealing with if one's entire livelihood depended on Katie Belle's.. Be observant to what may appear to be a sheltered bubble.

[JSR22]

Not picking on you Stu. I have been here since 2005 and logged countless hours at KB's. No way did they fold because they couldn't make a profit. If that is so how can the other restaurants around the square survive when they have to pay rent and the developer didn't? No proof has ever been offered up in these countless conversations about this other than hearsay. From one who has some firsthand experience may I possibly suggest there was possibly a drug and prostitute problem that wasn't worth dealing with if one's entire livelihood depended on Katie Belle's.. Be observant to what may appear to be a sheltered bubble.

Really a drug and prostitute problem? I know several restaurant owners in TV and KB was closed due to lack of profit.

[Bogie Shooter]

Wow!

[Papa_lecki]

I’m sure at some point in time, the losses at KB were a “loss leader” to attract buyers.

Attracting buyers isn’t a problem anymore.

[Marathon Man]

Not picking on you Stu. I have been here since 2005 and logged countless hours at KB's. Tony D (RIP) and I were on first name basis. No way did they fold because they couldn't make a profit. If that is so how can the other restaurants around the square survive when they have to pay rent and the developer didn't? No proof has ever been offered up in these countless conversations about this other than hearsay. From one who has some firsthand experience may I possibly suggest there was possibly a drug and prostitute problem that wasn't worth dealing with if one's entire livelihood depended on Katie Belle's.. Be observant to what may appear to be a sheltered bubble.

WOW!!!!! You talk about proof and then say that??????

[JSR22]

I’m sure at some point in time, the losses at KB were a “loss leader” to attract buyers.

Attracting buyers isn’t a problem anymore.

Your post nailed it!

[rustyp]

WOW!!!!! You talk about proof and then say that??????

How can one not make a profit when people stand in line waiting to get in. Again burden is on you to show they didn't make a profit. Just produce one piece of evidence like yearly Morse meeting or (chuckle) The Villages Sun other than TV posters of which 90% spouting out this hearsay didn't live here and never stepped foot in KB's. Added footnote - let me be clear - I am talking about the original KB's. Not that poor excuse we were fed when it went upstairs. Yea that's how successful the developers wanted it to be. They put a night club on the second floor of a senior citizen's community.

[coralway]

KB closed because deadbeat patrons sat for hours and hours on end nursing one drink. Food was, frankly, mediocre - nothing to brag about. In another location, probably outside of TV, KB would have been very successful.

[kkingston57]

Have owned/lived here for 3 years and this ? keeps coming up.

Admit that I was not familiar with this business, but have seen other businesses like this and they are not in businesses any longer. Can't tell you how many bars and restaurants who have come and gone over the years.

The following come to mind:

Studebakers
Urban Cowboy inspired bars/nightclubs.

From the developers point of view, apartments are a no-brainer.

[JSR22]

How can one not make a profit when people stand in line waiting to get in. Again burden is on you to show they didn't make a profit. Just produce one piece of evidence like yearly Morse meeting or (chuckle) The Villages Sun other than TV posters of which 90% spouting out this hearsay didn't live here and never stepped foot in KB's. Added footnote - let me be clear - I am talking about the original KB's. Not that poor excuse we were fed when it went upstairs. Yea that's how successful the developers wanted it to be. They put a night club on the second floor of a senior citizen's community.

The Cattle Baron was on the 2nd floor. No difference. If the downstairs was profitable they would not have closed it. The Morse's are smart business people.

[rustyp]

The Cattle Baron was on the 2nd floor. No difference. If the downstairs was profitable they would not have closed it. The Morse's are smart business people.

I agree they are smart. Doesn't mean KB's wasn't profitable. Some things aren't worth the headaches. Sometimes one has to read between the lines. BTW the developers owned the second floor. And do you know why it was called Cattle Barron's ?

[JSR22]

I agree they are smart. Doesn't mean KB's wasn't profitable. Some things aren't worth the headaches. Sometimes one has to read between the lines. BTW the developers owned the second floor. And do you know why it was called Cattle Barron's ?

Named after a Grandson Baron.

[Bogie Shooter]

Where’s the proof on the drugs and prostitution??

[JSR22]

Where’s the proof on the drugs and prostitution??

The prostitutes, if they existed, would have needed blindfolds!

[npwalters]

KB closed because deadbeat patrons sat for hours and hours on end nursing one drink. Food was, frankly, mediocre - nothing to brag about. In another location, probably outside of TV, KB would have been very successful.

That was not what I saw or experienced in the several times I was there.

[JMintzer]

How can one not make a profit when people stand in line waiting to get in.

Maybe they were waiting in line for the Hookers & Blow...

[rustyp]

The prostitutes, if they existed, would have needed blindfolds!

They don't care - it's a one way street.

[Garywt]

We went once and saw a show. It was good but only half full. Maybe different shows were needed. It was just at the beginning of COVID that it closed I believe and the talks of apartments started almost immediately. There have been a number of conversations as to whether or not apartments would be good.

[EdFNJ]

The prostitutes, if they existed, would have needed blindfolds! I hear they all joined the ballroom dancing club.




PLEASE! Ballroom dancing club members, it was a joke. ;)

[justjim]

It closed before we move here but since it was losing money why would they bring it back?

Was it really losing money? The various times we went to Katie Belle’s it was full of residents and their guests. Maybe it was poor management or some other reason it was closed. Maybe those that managed The Sharon saw it as competition and made a “pitch” to get rid of it. Fact is we probably will never know “the why”as the Morse family doesn’t answer to any of us. Katie Belle’s did have so called “advertisement value” and it was a unique and different place here in The Villages. I doubt you will see the like of a Katie Belle’s again here in The Villages.

[skippy05]

For all those wanting "The Villages" to bring back Katie Belles: Why not put together a Business Venture with investors and bring it back to The Villages yourself, without "The Villages" help? Certainly, you can lease one of the many vacant commercial spaces in the Villages. And, it is sure to turn a profit, as everyone desiring to bring it back says the old one made good money. This is not a sarcastic reply. For sure you can do it if you put your mind to it.

[GRACEALLEMAN]

How can one not make a profit when people stand in line waiting to get in. Again burden is on you to show they didn't make a profit. Just produce one piece of evidence like yearly Morse meeting or (chuckle) The Villages Sun other than TV posters of which 90% spouting out this hearsay didn't live here and never stepped foot in KB's. Added footnote - let me be clear - I am talking about the original KB's. Not that poor excuse we were fed when it went upstairs. Yea that's how successful the developers wanted it to be. They put a night club on the second floor of a senior citizen's community.
Right on brother. I'd dance with you.

[thevillages2013]

Not picking on you Stu. I have been here since 2005 and logged countless hours at KB's. Tony D (RIP) and I were on first name basis. No way did they fold because they couldn't make a profit. If that is so how can the other restaurants around the square survive when they have to pay rent and the developer didn't? No proof has ever been offered up in these countless conversations about this other than hearsay. From one who has some firsthand experience may I possibly suggest there was possibly a drug and prostitute problem that wasn't worth dealing with if one's entire livelihood depended on Katie Belle's.. Be observant to what may appear to be a sheltered bubble.
Oh my god you are telling me that smooth talking lady was a pupuprostitue ? I thought she was really digging me:bigbow:

[msilagy]

How does that poster know it wasn't making money? I guess he was the accountant. You think?

[thevillages2013]

Oh my god you are telling me that smooth talking lady was a pupuprostitue ? I thought she was really digging me:bigbow:

Let’s open back up with a new name . Instead of Studio 54 let’s go with a more fitting name (pregnant pause) STUDIO 55+

[jedalton]

It was absolutely the best. Really miss it. I agree, the biggest mistake the villages has made.

[barbnick]

Not picking on you Stu. I have been here since 2005 and logged countless hours at KB's. Tony D (RIP) and I were on first name basis. No way did they fold because they couldn't make a profit. If that is so how can the other restaurants around the square survive when they have to pay rent and the developer didn't? No proof has ever been offered up in these countless conversations about this other than hearsay. From one who has some firsthand experience may I possibly suggest there was possibly a drug and prostitute problem that wasn't worth dealing with if one's entire livelihood depended on Katie Belle's.. Be observant to what may appear to be a sheltered bubble.

So… Where did all the Prostitutes and drugs go?? Don’t believe it

[thevillages2013]

So… Where did all the Prostitutes and drugs go?? Don’t believe it

Fenney

[BlueStarAirlines]

I'm too new to have gone to KB, but no one can miss the "romanization" of the place.

I think this falls in the same bucket as the "old" days of flying where everyone dressed up and was fed the most amazing meal on the plane. We tend to gloss over all the problems and just focus on (and over time enhance) the positives.

More than likely this place was hemorrhaging money. Positive cash flow helps overlook a multitude of sins. If KB was the cash cow some make it out to be, there is logically no reason to just close it.

[egualf]

:bigbow:I have missed the original Katie Belle's since it's demise. Resident's miss a country and western dance bar with a great wooden floor that welcomed one and all all hours of the day to enjoy camaraderie that was as special as the TV show, Cheers.If there is an entrepreneur out there willing to open the concept off property, I think they would have a winner.

The newer villagers probably haven't heard of Katie Belle's which was a Villager only unique 2 story country dance hall with 2 restaurants located in Spanish Springs. For many it was the place to go and bring out of town guests. Down stairs there was a large dance floor with a raised stage and casual dining around the floor to watch the dancers. Upstairs was a fine dinning restaurant “Cattle Barren” overlooking the dance floor. There was a live band everyday. Katie Belles was unique, everyone we knew loved it and I'm sure it had a lot to do with many of us buying our first home here; but for some reason The Villages closed it. In our opinion, and everyone else we talk to, it was and remains The Villages biggest mistake. I guess I should also say the Villages built an outstanding community and I don't think they make many mistakes. As The Villages grew, many hoped they would build a new Katie Belle's and it seemed like a wonderful location was Brownwood across the street from Blue Fin. Of course we know that isn't going to happen since we will be graced with some other restaurant serving health food I think. The excitement is really building on this!!!!

But, besides bringing back a sore subject for many, it turns out The Villages announced in today's (11/23/21) paper they are planning to put apartments in the Van Patten building were Katie Belle's was located.

Just wondering what others think about the old Katie Belle's and The Villages building a new one – Someplace? Who knows, maybe someone who counts will read this and listen. I think the advertisement value of Katie Belle's far exceeded the restaurant profit.

[DAVES]

The newer villagers probably haven't heard of Katie Belle's which was a Villager only unique 2 story country dance hall with 2 restaurants located in Spanish Springs. For many it was the place to go and bring out of town guests. Down stairs there was a large dance floor with a raised stage and casual dining around the floor to watch the dancers. Upstairs was a fine dinning restaurant “Cattle Barren” overlooking the dance floor. There was a live band everyday. Katie Belles was unique, everyone we knew loved it and I'm sure it had a lot to do with many of us buying our first home here; but for some reason The Villages closed it. In our opinion, and everyone else we talk to, it was and remains The Villages biggest mistake. I guess I should also say the Villages built an outstanding community and I don't think they make many mistakes. As The Villages grew, many hoped they would build a new Katie Belle's and it seemed like a wonderful location was Brownwood across the street from Blue Fin. Of course we know that isn't going to happen since we will be graced with some other restaurant serving health food I think. The excitement is really building on this!!!!

But, besides bringing back a sore subject for many, it turns out The Villages announced in today's (11/23/21) paper they are planning to put apartments in the Van Patten building were Katie Belle's was located.

Just wondering what others think about the old Katie Belle's and The Villages building a new one – Someplace? Who knows, maybe someone who counts will read this and listen. I think the advertisement value of Katie Belle's far exceeded the restaurant profit.

If, I understand it, the builder builds, they work with businesses IF, it makes sense for both. There has to be a business plan with money. I do not know what the agreement was with Katie Belle's. It was a huge custom built property. I seem to recall the first time we did a Villages Visit, you got a diner at Cattleman's Ranch, it was free or discounted and you got a free movie these were all negotiated deals. You can entice a business you cannot force a business.

Someone who counts? Col Saunders was 80 something when he started. You can hire someone who can count.

[Queenie504]

Keep your good memories. I went there once about a year before they closed and it was horrible. The food and entertainment were quite bad. The time for that type of venue is long gone. Sorry.

[DAVES]

How does that poster know it wasn't making money? I guess he was the accountant. You think?

IT DOES NOT MATTER. You cannot force someone to be in business. Hours to run a place like Kattie Belles does not leave time to play golf etc. Oh wow you have your own business. You wake up one day and discover you are getting older and your business owns you.

[Cliff Fr]

The developer is in the building business not the restaurant business.

[paulajr]

That was not what I saw or experienced in the several times I was there.

Funny..that’s what we saw EVERY time we were there when it was on the first floor. The food was much better when it moved upstairs.

[jbrown132]

The newer villagers probably haven't heard of Katie Belle's which was a Villager only unique 2 story country dance hall with 2 restaurants located in Spanish Springs. For many it was the place to go and bring out of town guests. Down stairs there was a large dance floor with a raised stage and casual dining around the floor to watch the dancers. Upstairs was a fine dinning restaurant “Cattle Barren” overlooking the dance floor. There was a live band everyday. Katie Belles was unique, everyone we knew loved it and I'm sure it had a lot to do with many of us buying our first home here; but for some reason The Villages closed it. In our opinion, and everyone else we talk to, it was and remains The Villages biggest mistake. I guess I should also say the Villages built an outstanding community and I don't think they make many mistakes. As The Villages grew, many hoped they would build a new Katie Belle's and it seemed like a wonderful location was Brownwood across the street from Blue Fin. Of course we know that isn't going to happen since we will be graced with some other restaurant serving health food I think. The excitement is really building on this!!!!

But, besides bringing back a sore subject for many, it turns out The Villages announced in today's (11/23/21) paper they are planning to put apartments in the Van Patten building were Katie Belle's was located.

Just wondering what others think about the old Katie Belle's and The Villages building a new one – Someplace? Who knows, maybe someone who counts will read this and listen. I think the advertisement value of Katie Belle's far exceeded the restaurant profit.
Not going to happen. That ended when the developers decided there was more profit it apartments and real estate than in the restaurant business. For those of you who have been here a while you probably remember the nice deli that use to be in the sales center in Sumter Landing which is now Panera’s. It was a great little place to have lunch. I understand the developers motivation but what they lost sight of was keeping those things that made The Villages truly unique and those things will never return.

[jbrown132]

Katie Belle's downstairs was closed because it was not making a profit. The Cattle Baron was an okay restaurant not fine dining. The upstairs Katie Belle's restaurant was much better then the Cattle Baron and had good entertainment. Not enough people wanted to pay for shows and dinner.
The Harvest opening across from Blue Fin is not a health food restaurant. It will be a very good restaurant along the the lines of Blue Fin and Chop House.
When Katie Belle's was closed all furnishings were removed. There will be apts in the upstairs.
I can not fathom why rhey would reopen a business that is not profitable.
I have a hard time believing those businesses were not profitable. I would go there on average 3-4 times a month and they were always packed. Most of the shows were always sold out. So it was not the lack of business but maybe poor management or the developers just figured there was more money and less work in apartments than in the restaurant business.

[Stu from NYC]

How can one not make a profit when people stand in line waiting to get in. Again burden is on you to show they didn't make a profit. Just produce one piece of evidence like yearly Morse meeting or (chuckle) The Villages Sun other than TV posters of which 90% spouting out this hearsay didn't live here and never stepped foot in KB's. Added footnote - let me be clear - I am talking about the original KB's. Not that poor excuse we were fed when it went upstairs. Yea that's how successful the developers wanted it to be. They put a night club on the second floor of a senior citizen's community.

Why do we have a burden to show they didnt make a profit? Remember the developer can either make this a loss leader or go in another direction and they choose what is in their best interest.

We were not here when it was opened so no idea if it was good or bad. The comment that villagers bought one drink and nursed it for hours so they lost money is silly. All a business has to do is put in a minimum purchase and that problem is solved very quickly.

[sail33or]

It is the concept of a dinner theater or dinner/dancing that was the alure and great amenity.

However you can only see Dunning/Shaw and Rocky/Rollers just so many times.

Back in the old days where I lived we had a dinner/dancing venue that featured a Band Leader that produced a different show/theme each month.

GlennView Country Club has tried to do some dinner shows with the Old Katie Bell entertainers.

[davem4616]

We always took first time visitors to Katie Belle's...the food was equal to the value you paid...and it was a nice intro to 'life in the bubble'

there was a story going around that the owner was the husband of one of the Morse girls and they were getting a divorce... if that was truly the situation, any subsidy money from 'the family' that may have been keeping it afloat would have been coming to an end

who knows, unless you were an insider, it's all speculation ...

it was a special place and there should have been a line outside waiting to get in, but there never was

[Waltdisney4life]

Will not reopen

[BostonRich]

I have often heard that they lost money because people would sit there for hours and nurse one beer or glass of water forever and hog the tables. If that was the case then the new food-court style "Market" at Sawgrass Grove is in trouble.

But why was this a problem? No other restaurant in Spanish Springs would allow this. Seems like the management could have discouraged this problematic activity.

[billjudy]

We loved Katie Belle's! We ate there many times - sometimes at lunch for the atmosphere, food, and music! It was beautiful! Attended many dinner shows there. Every time we had visitors, you can be sure that was a destination!! Brunch on Sundays - delightful! We really miss it! Wish they could bring KB back, but not in the South- we need something new in Spanish Springs! The Villages does such a wonderful job making sure everything is beautiful! It seems so much more attention is given to the Fenney area! Pay attention to the Northern section of The Villages!!!

[manaboutown]

IMHO KB's was utilized as a sales tool in the early days, drawing people to purchase in TV as "members only" entertainment, drinking, dancing and dining would be nearby at Spanish Springs. As new developments were being built further and further south it became a bit of a trek in a golf cart to get to KB's so it was not as much a draw.

[ohiosbestus]

I just read whebuilding is located.re The Villages just applied for a permit to put in 7 apartments where the old KatieBells building is located in Spanish Springs. I understood the council declined that request about a year or so ago.

[DIRTYSECRET]

You cannot unscramble the egg.
Kinda reminds me of The Pink Pony in Scottsdale, Az. It was PINK. Spring training. Sawdust on the floor. Spring training games on the radio one could hear the individual fans in the stands shouting. It's all gone upscale with tickets going for $40. The Pink Pony is now upscale-no longer even Pink. People used to park their horses outside.

It's all because the whole town is now upscale.
You have to change with the times I'm sad to say.

[rustyp]

Why do we have a burden to show they didnt make a profit? Remember the developer can either make this a loss leader or go in another direction and they choose what is in their best interest.

We were not here when it was opened so no idea if it was good or bad. The comment that villagers bought one drink and nursed it for hours so they lost money is silly. All a business has to do is put in a minimum purchase and that problem is solved very quickly.


This subject is as old as dog poop. Not once has one offered up proof KB's wasn't making a profit including this entire thread so far. Just post an announcement by the Morse's or some TV department stating such.

In stead we keep posting "hearsay" about Villagers drinking water causing the closure. Well if that is true the same Villagers still live here so how is anyone else going to make a profit ?

The Sharon Morse performing Arts Centered opened in 2015, Guess when Katie Belle's closed and moved upstairs - right 2015.

I totally agree The Morse's can do whatever they please and do not have to answer to us. It very well could be they wanted to put something in that was more profitable with less work then the previous venue But stop putting the blame on The Villagers. People are posting like they know the answer. Most of them never stepped foot in the old KB's - hearsay !

The only exception I have to my statement about the developer is free to do as they please could possibly be a verbal contract (if you want to call it that) may have been broken. In the early to mid 2000's time frame the first word out of you sales rep mouth was "and here is Katie Belle's, the flagship of The Villages. It is an exclusive residents only club." But the flip side of the coin is no reason they can't do the same with the town squares. For you newer people wasn't those squares part of the sales pitch ?

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

I have a hard time believing those businesses were not profitable. I would go there on average 3-4 times a month and they were always packed. Most of the shows were always sold out. So it was not the lack of business but maybe poor management or the developers just figured there was more money and less work in apartments than in the restaurant business.

I went their several times for lunch over the last few years before it closed and it was always dead. It may have been packed in the early years before I got here but it was going downhill toward the end.

[toeser]

I always found it a hoot that people considered it a "private club" for 100,000 people.

[airstreamingypsy]

How can one not make a profit when people stand in line waiting to get in. Again burden is on you to show they didn't make a profit. Just produce one piece of evidence like yearly Morse meeting or (chuckle) The Villages Sun other than TV posters of which 90% spouting out this hearsay didn't live here and never stepped foot in KB's. Added footnote - let me be clear - I am talking about the original KB's. Not that poor excuse we were fed when it went upstairs. Yea that's how successful the developers wanted it to be. They put a night club on the second floor of a senior citizen's community.

People stood in line, then ordered a dinner to share and hogged the table all night ordering maybe one drink, that's how.

[airstreamingypsy]

I totally agree The Morse's can do whatever they please and do not have to answer to us. It very well could be they wanted to put something in that was more profitable with less work then the previous venue But stop putting the blame on The Villagers. People are posting like they know the answer. Most of them never stepped foot in the old KB's - hearsay !

The only exception I have to my statement about the developer is free to do as they please could possibly be a verbal contract (if you want to call it that) may have been broken. In the early to mid 2000's time frame the first word out of you sales rep mouth was "and here is Katie Belle's, the flagship of The Villages. It is an exclusive residents only club." But the flip side of the coin is no reason they can't do the same with the town squares. For you newer people wasn't those squares part of the sales pitch ?

"We will stop building at 466A" "We will definitely stop at 44"

[Ken D.]

So… Where did all the Prostitutes and drugs go?? Don’t believe it
City Fire!

[Michael G.]

Near did get to KB's in the 5 years living here, How where their prices?

[fdpaq0580]

Asking if they will ever bring back Katie Belles is like asking if Rudolph Valentino will ever make another movie.

Times change. And sometimes they may even change for the better. Sometimes they don't.

[fdpaq0580]

Oh my god you are telling me that smooth talking lady was a pupuprostitue ? I thought she was really digging me:bigbow:

Are you sure "she" was a lady?
😯😯😯

[Laker14]

For all those wanting "The Villages" to bring back Katie Belles: Why not put together a Business Venture with investors and bring it back to The Villages yourself, without "The Villages" help? Certainly, you can lease one of the many vacant commercial spaces in the Villages. And, it is sure to turn a profit, as everyone desiring to bring it back says the old one made good money. This is not a sarcastic reply. For sure you can do it if you put your mind to it.

Your (not sarcastic) suggestion is antithetical to the concept of retirement.

But, as far as making a profit, and I was never in Katie Belles, if they were making a profit, it must not have been enough of a profit to justify the work, and/or the use of real estate that could be more profitably used in another manner.

Businesses seldom disappear because they are too profitable.

[Inexes@aol.com]

Kind of ironic..... the one thing most people have a problem with as they age, is "change". So, we retire, move to an area with all these amenities "promised", expecting it to never change.

The first restaurant I visited in the Villages, in the late 90's, was Silver Lake. It was a great restaurant on the historic side. Really good food. Whoops.... closed.

Next was Chula Vista. We ate there several times a week, food was great. Dancing nightly, ballroom type and good dancers. Whoops, closed.

Big draw for prospective buyers.... the indoor heated pool at the Sharon Morse building, great for aging bones, lol. Whoops, closed..... needed more office space???

Little restaurant in Santiago, at golf course, Jimmy Buffett style entertainment... great food, lively crowd,always jammed.... Whoops, closed.

Katie Bell's experienced many changes during its time in an effort to keep it going. I never really cared for the place, didn't spend much time there, but many people did. But, in the end..... another whoops.

Hacienda Hills CC restaurant, more upscale (?) for TV... dress code, shirts, ties, etc. Then, more relaxed (no dress code), Very popular place for dining and dancing.... Whoops, closed.

The Church on the Square... then changed to The Sharon.... what's next there?
Savannah Center used to be very popular for entertainment, think most of that moved to The Sharon.

Tierra Del Sol, thank goodness has survived, though many changes with same, but thank goodness they did not close that one.

Yes, I do understand that change is inevitable but that does not mean I have to like it much. All the things that drew those of us here in the 1990s, early 2000s, have gone slowly by the wayside. As many of us have, who moved here back then.

What I do understand is that the age group that is looking at The Villages now is far removed from what our age group was looking for. And I believe the "family" is well aware of this, as they are in that age group, and going forward will be catering to a much different outlook and lifestyle.

We have a choice.... embrace it and go with the flow or reject it, lay back, relax and relive the memories of "the good old days". At 84.... I choose to lay back and relax and enjoy whatever time I have left rather than get all worked up over something I have no control over.

[Ramone]

The newer villagers probably haven't heard of Katie Belle's which was a Villager only unique 2 story country dance hall with 2 restaurants located in Spanish Springs. For many it was the place to go and bring out of town guests. Down stairs there was a large dance floor with a raised stage and casual dining around the floor to watch the dancers. Upstairs was a fine dinning restaurant “Cattle Barren” overlooking the dance floor. There was a live band everyday. Katie Belles was unique, everyone we knew loved it and I'm sure it had a lot to do with many of us buying our first home here; but for some reason The Villages closed it. In our opinion, and everyone else we talk to, it was and remains The Villages biggest mistake. I guess I should also say the Villages built an outstanding community and I don't think they make many mistakes. As The Villages grew, many hoped they would build a new Katie Belle's and it seemed like a wonderful location was Brownwood across the street from Blue Fin. Of course we know that isn't going to happen since we will be graced with some other restaurant serving health food I think. The excitement is really building on this!!!!

But, besides bringing back a sore subject for many, it turns out The Villages announced in today's (11/23/21) paper they are planning to put apartments in the Van Patten building were Katie Belle's was located.

Just wondering what others think about the old Katie Belle's and The Villages building a new one – Someplace? Who knows, maybe someone who counts will read this and listen. I think the advertisement value of Katie Belle's far exceeded the restaurant profit.

Well, it seems the historic end of The Villages keeps getting their home sales incentives of 30 years ago taken away; Katie Belles, Silver Lake Club, Palm Tiki bar at OB, Hacienda Country Club, Realto Theater, bowling soon, etc. A thank you from the 3rd gen of Morse's.

[thevillages2013]

Are you sure "she" was a lady?
😯😯😯

Oh she was no lady:bigbow:

[Indydealmaker]

The newer villagers probably haven't heard of Katie Belle's which was a Villager only unique 2 story country dance hall with 2 restaurants located in Spanish Springs. For many it was the place to go and bring out of town guests. Down stairs there was a large dance floor with a raised stage and casual dining around the floor to watch the dancers. Upstairs was a fine dinning restaurant “Cattle Barren” overlooking the dance floor. There was a live band everyday. Katie Belles was unique, everyone we knew loved it and I'm sure it had a lot to do with many of us buying our first home here; but for some reason The Villages closed it. In our opinion, and everyone else we talk to, it was and remains The Villages biggest mistake. I guess I should also say the Villages built an outstanding community and I don't think they make many mistakes. As The Villages grew, many hoped they would build a new Katie Belle's and it seemed like a wonderful location was Brownwood across the street from Blue Fin. Of course we know that isn't going to happen since we will be graced with some other restaurant serving health food I think. The excitement is really building on this!!!!

But, besides bringing back a sore subject for many, it turns out The Villages announced in today's (11/23/21) paper they are planning to put apartments in the Van Patten building were Katie Belle's was located.

Just wondering what others think about the old Katie Belle's and The Villages building a new one – Someplace? Who knows, maybe someone who counts will read this and listen. I think the advertisement value of Katie Belle's far exceeded the restaurant profit.

Katue Belles closed because it was a moneypit.

[fdpaq0580]

Katue Belles closed because it was a moneypit.

Inquiring minds wanted to know. Now we do.
Thank you.

[Worldseries27]

kb closed because deadbeat patrons sat for hours and hours on end nursing one drink. Food was, frankly, mediocre - nothing to brag about. In another location, probably outside of tv, kb would have been very successful.
that's the story i always heard since i started coming to tv over 20 years ago
to be frank certain nights were m/f cougar
scenarios.

[fdpaq0580]

to be frank certain nights were m/f cougar
scenarios.

Ah! The good old days. 😁😁😁

[airdote22]

Good business planning dictates cutting losses and do not repeat a losing venue!!

Was a loss leader and a great one, with this area now built out if it was still in operation
am sure the residents at Brownwood would want one there, only larger, but as long as they can sell the houses without that expense there, it is not going to happen.

[jsjackman]

I wish they had tried to adjust the hours to being open only 4 nites/days/wk with a DJ instead of a band every hour open! They could hire a band on Friday & Saturday nites. However, I too feel if they hadn’t messed with the remodel to begin with, it might still be a success. Our guests always had a great time & the food/service was over all pretty good! It helped to sell The Villages to our guests! Being there always gave you a special feeling of being a part of a glamorous life style! Why not have tried fewer hours first & let Villagers know they needed our support!

[Ipecoraro]

Here 17 years and sure miss Katie Belles. Please bring it back!

[fdpaq0580]

Here 17 years and sure miss Katie Belles. Please bring it back!

My guess, it ain't gonna happen. Time to find someplace else to enjoy.

[rustyp]

Over the holidays we would take our guests to the holiday countdown at the church on the square (admission = can food for the food pantry), then stop at the square and catch a set (HH 2 for 1) and wind up the night with dinner and entertainment at Katie Belle's. Sharing our entrees and sipping water made for a very affordable evening. Nowadays I ask my guests would you like to go to our performing arts center. They inquire what's there ? I answer if we are lucky maybe the high school choir but primarily tribute bands and practicing students of the arts.

[fdpaq0580]

Over the holidays we would take our guests to the holiday countdown at the church on the square (admission = can food for the food pantry), then stop at the square and catch a set (HH 2 for 1) and wind up the night with dinner and entertainment at Katie Belle's. Sharing our entrees and sipping water made for a very affordable evening. Nowadays I ask my guests would you like to go to our performing arts center. They inquire what's there ? I answer if we are lucky maybe the high school choir but primarily tribute bands and practicing students of the arts.

😂😂😂😂

[dadspet]

So… Where did all the Prostitutes and drugs go?? Don’t believe it

Having been there several times a week for many years with several other couples > We never saw or even hinted this was this going on. Don't believe it > Again where did they go "Blue fin, Chop House, etc where????

[Laker14]

Over the holidays we would take our guests to the holiday countdown at the church on the square (admission = can food for the food pantry), then stop at the square and catch a set (HH 2 for 1) and wind up the night with dinner and entertainment at Katie Belle's. Sharing our entrees and sipping water made for a very affordable evening. Nowadays I ask my guests would you like to go to our performing arts center. They inquire what's there ? I answer if we are lucky maybe the high school choir but primarily tribute bands and practicing students of the arts.

For the poster who wondered how can they be busy and not make a profit...

[JMintzer]

For the poster who wondered how can they be busy and not make a profit...

Methinks he was not being serious...

[Djean1981]

No.

[rustyp]

YES !


chilout