Restaurant Diversity in The Bubble

[Michael 61]

I am moving to TV in a few months from Colorado, and can’t wait! I am the biggest cheerleader for TV here in Colorado, encouraging all my friends who are approaching retirement to book a lifestyle visit. There is one thing I’m going to miss when I move however. TV lacks the restaurant diversity I am used to. I eat out most meals (breakfast and dinner), and enjoy locally owned and ethnic restaurants. I completely stay away from fast food and any chain restaurants. I am an admitted “foodie” and also a pretty good cook myself. During my lifestyle visit, I checked out all the highest rated restaurants based on Yelp reviews. I thought Harvest/Blue Fin/Chop house were all “OK”, as well as Thai Ruby. The Mexican and Chinese places were awful. (We have excellent Mexican here in the West). For the TV being so large, where are the Indian, Vietnamese, Korean, Greek, Cuban, Cajun, German restaurants? Where are the French bistros and Spanish tapas places? I was surprised how “meat and potatoes” and chain-restaurant heavy TV is. I guess I will need to drive to Orlando weekly for some restaurant diversity, or I will be cooking more at home myself. Please don’t think I am bashing the TV in anyway -I can’t want to move in a few months, but I will miss my restaurants.

[jimbomaybe]

I am moving to TV in a few months from Colorado, and can’t wait! I am the biggest cheerleader for TV here in Colorado, encouraging all my friends who are approaching retirement to book a lifestyle visit. There is one thing I’m going to miss when I move however. TV lacks the restaurant diversity I am used to. I eat out most meals (breakfast and dinner), and enjoy locally owned and ethnic restaurants. I completely stay away from fast food and any chain restaurants. I am an admitted “foodie” and also a pretty good cook myself. During my lifestyle visit, I checked out all the highest rated restaurants based on Yelp reviews. I thought Harvest/Blue Fin/Chop house were all “OK”, as well as Thai Ruby. The Mexican and Chinese places were awful. (We have excellent Mexican here in the West). For the TV being so large, where are the Indian, Vietnamese, Korean, Greek, Cuban, Cajun, German restaurants? Where are the French bistros and Spanish tapas places? I was surprised how “meat and potatoes” and chain-restaurant heavy TV is. I guess I will need to drive to Orlando weekly for some restaurant diversity, or I will be cooking more at home myself. Please don’t think I am bashing the TV in anyway -I can’t want to move in a few months, but I will miss my restaurants.
Being a restaurateur is a very hard job, I think you would agree that the best places are run by people with a passion for what they do, restaurants in large population centers have a lot of talented competition, The Villages has a lot going for it but it is still a small town economic market, I don't think many of the restaurants here would do well in one of those larger metropolitan areas. I am not a foodie but the the economic facts limit what can be offered, I miss the wide selection offered in my home town of Chicago

[Stu from NYC]

On a regular basis we venture out of the bubble for restaurants.

[golfing eagles]

I am moving to TV in a few months from Colorado, and can’t wait! I am the biggest cheerleader for TV here in Colorado, encouraging all my friends who are approaching retirement to book a lifestyle visit. There is one thing I’m going to miss when I move however. TV lacks the restaurant diversity I am used to. I eat out most meals (breakfast and dinner), and enjoy locally owned and ethnic restaurants. I completely stay away from fast food and any chain restaurants. I am an admitted “foodie” and also a pretty good cook myself. During my lifestyle visit, I checked out all the highest rated restaurants based on Yelp reviews. I thought Harvest/Blue Fin/Chop house were all “OK”, as well as Thai Ruby. The Mexican and Chinese places were awful. (We have excellent Mexican here in the West). For the TV being so large, where are the Indian, Vietnamese, Korean, Greek, Cuban, Cajun, German restaurants? Where are the French bistros and Spanish tapas places? I was surprised how “meat and potatoes” and chain-restaurant heavy TV is. I guess I will need to drive to Orlando weekly for some restaurant diversity, or I will be cooking more at home myself. Please don’t think I am bashing the TV in anyway -I can’t want to move in a few months, but I will miss my restaurants.

Mexican-------------Brisas del Mar, 441 in Lady Lake and San Jose on 27 in Leesburg
Chinese------------- Koyame, Bamboo Bistro and for take out Sunrise Asian, all in TV
Indian-----------------Amrit Palace in Ocala and Shiva in Mt. Dora
Vietnamese--------Pho Sai gon corner of 301 and 466
Greek------------------Takis on 441
German---------------Bavarian House in Mt. Dora
Spanish Tapas-----Used to be in Brownwood but went belly up
Cuban, Korean, Cajun and French----haven't been to any locally

[Michael 61]

Mexican-------------Brisas del Mar, 441 in Lady Lake and San Jose on 27 in Leesburg
Chinese------------- Koyame, Bamboo Bistro and for take out Sunrise Asian, all in TV
Indian-----------------Amrit Palace in Ocala and Shiva in Mt. Dora
Vietnamese--------Pho Sai gon corner of 301 and 466
Greek------------------Takis on 441
German---------------Bavarian House in Mt. Dora
Spanish Tapas-----Used to be in Brownwood but went belly up
Cuban, Korean, Cajun and French----haven't been to any locally

Thank You for these suggestions, looks like many are outside of TV, which I don’t mind - maybe I had a misconception of riding to all these types of restaurants by golf cart within the bubble.

[Chi-Town]

There was a tapas restaurant in a great location in Brownwood. It was terribly run and far removed from what you would expect. Hopefully, another one will open locally, as they are very popular in other places.

[kkingston57]

I am moving to TV in a few months from Colorado, and can’t wait! I am the biggest cheerleader for TV here in Colorado, encouraging all my friends who are approaching retirement to book a lifestyle visit. There is one thing I’m going to miss when I move however. TV lacks the restaurant diversity I am used to. I eat out most meals (breakfast and dinner), and enjoy locally owned and ethnic restaurants. I completely stay away from fast food and any chain restaurants. I am an admitted “foodie” and also a pretty good cook myself. During my lifestyle visit, I checked out all the highest rated restaurants based on Yelp reviews. I thought Harvest/Blue Fin/Chop house were all “OK”, as well as Thai Ruby. The Mexican and Chinese places were awful. (We have excellent Mexican here in the West). For the TV being so large, where are the Indian, Vietnamese, Korean, Greek, Cuban, Cajun, German restaurants? Where are the French bistros and Spanish tapas places? I was surprised how “meat and potatoes” and chain-restaurant heavy TV is. I guess I will need to drive to Orlando weekly for some restaurant diversity, or I will be cooking more at home myself. Please don’t think I am bashing the TV in anyway -I can’t want to move in a few months, but I will miss my restaurants.

Agree and you definitely will need to take a road trip(further south in TV will be longer) to get to more diversified restaurants in this area. A lot of chains in TV. R

Failed to mention, getting a good pizza. Most pizza in TV is cooked on conveyor belt and not a real pizza oven

[hoopsterdad]

we moved here from wyoming in 2009. family back in denver, we go there often and enjoy the many restaurants they have to offer. we go to several within the villages, they work, but we often go outside the bubble as there is a wider variety of places to choose from. the villages for us is a wonderful place to live, just understand it is not where you come from. once you are here, you can sample and choose your favorites within the villages, or outside. welcome.

[vintageogauge]

You weren't here long enough to try them all. My cousin came to visit from New Mexico where he has lived for over 50 years and told me that the Mexican restaurant in the Wildwood plaza was as good as any that he frequents back home. There was a German restaurant, closed down, there was a Polish restaurant, closed down, and a lot of the restaurants are on the outer edges of TV as within the squares rents are very high. I don't know what section you are moving to but if you are far north or far south going out to eat via golf car, unless you have a lot of time, is pretty much out of the question now because of the distance involved. One you're here you'll find plenty of restaurants that will appeal to you. A lot of new breakfast/lunch restaurants opened over the last year or so and more on the way. Out of 140,000 people I'm sure you are not the only, as you say, Foodie in TV as a matter of fact they probably have a club for those of you that cannot be satisfied locally. For the majority, no need to leave here.

[Stu from NYC]

Mexican-------------Brisas del Mar, 441 in Lady Lake and San Jose on 27 in Leesburg
Chinese------------- Koyame, Bamboo Bistro and for take out Sunrise Asian, all in TV
Indian-----------------Amrit Palace in Ocala and Shiva in Mt. Dora
Vietnamese--------Pho Sai gon corner of 301 and 466
Greek------------------Takis on 441
German---------------Bavarian House in Mt. Dora
Spanish Tapas-----Used to be in Brownwood but went belly up
Cuban, Korean, Cajun and French----haven't been to any locally

Will disagree with Takis. People tell us only good place to get good Greek food is in Tarpon springs over an hour away.

[golfing eagles]

Will disagree with Takis. People tell us only good place to get good Greek food is in Tarpon springs over an hour away.

Tarpon Springs is definitely the place for Greek. But it’s almost 2 hours away and Takis is reasonably good

[Flyers999]

7It's all about population. You are not going to get the diversity of restaurants here that you get at, for example Philadelphia ( where I'm from). In Philly, there are around 2 million people living, for example, within 15 miles of where I lived. Here there are maybe 200k at this point, at most.

My wife and I ate at Thai Ruby a few times and didn't like it, but we haven't ate there in 7 years so I don't know what it's like today.
Our favorite restaurants are the hot salad bar at Earth Fare, Legacy restaurant at Lopez, and Terra del sol.

Be prepared to do a lot of cooking.

[Stu from NYC]

Tarpon Springs is definitely the place for Greek. But it’s almost 2 hours away and Takis is reasonably good

Could be the NYer in me but my good to favorite is Gyros and Takis did not come close to cutting it. Asked the owner when she came around asking about our meal and she claimed that villagers did not care for it in the traditional way.

Also serves Italian which we understand is pretty good but have not tried it.

[Papa_lecki]

7It's all about population. You are not going to get the diversity of restaurants here that you get at, for example Philadelphia ( where I'm from). In Philly, there are around 2 million people living, for example, within 15 miles of where I lived. Here there are maybe 200k at this point, at most.

My wife and I ate at Thai Ruby a few times and didn't like it, but we haven't ate there in 7 years so I don't know what it's like today.
Our favorite restaurants are the hot salad bar at Earth Fare, Legacy restaurant at Lopez, and Terra del sol.

Be prepared to do a lot of cooking.

I live in center city Phila - I walk to restaurants run by some of the finest chefs, Steven Starr (I’ll probably eat at a Starr restaurant tonight), George Perrier, I am going to a Marc Vetri restaurant next week. We eat our A LOT.

I don’t mind the places in the “Bubble”.

There have to be over 100 in the Bubble - some are good/some are bad. The good ones become bad and the bad ones turn around.

Move here, go out and eat and enjoy.

[Bilyclub]

Being a restaurateur is a very hard job, I think you would agree that the best places are run by people with a passion for what they do, restaurants in large population centers have a lot of talented competition, The Villages has a lot going for it but it is still a small town economic market, I don't think many of the restaurants here would do well in one of those larger metropolitan areas. I am not a foodie but the the economic facts limit what can be offered, I miss the wide selection offered in my home town of Chicago

I'm not a foodie so I miss the pizza, beefs, and gyros back there.

[Djean1981]

I'm not a foodie at all, but I know there is a Villages Gourmet Club. :)

The Villages Gourmet Club Restaurant Review Site (https://thevillagesgourmetclub.com)

[Ecuadog]

The Villages Gourmet Club maintains a website listing about 900 restaurants within about 100 miles of The Villages. A lot have been reviewed by club members. It might be of some help.

Website... click here (https://thevillagesgourmetclub.com/).

Search Page... click here (https://thevillagesgourmetclub.com/search.html).

[Keefelane66]

I am moving to TV in a few months from Colorado, and can’t wait! I am the biggest cheerleader for TV here in Colorado, encouraging all my friends who are approaching retirement to book a lifestyle visit. There is one thing I’m going to miss when I move however. TV lacks the restaurant diversity I am used to. I eat out most meals (breakfast and dinner), and enjoy locally owned and ethnic restaurants. I completely stay away from fast food and any chain restaurants. I am an admitted “foodie” and also a pretty good cook myself. During my lifestyle visit, I checked out all the highest rated restaurants based on Yelp reviews. I thought Harvest/Blue Fin/Chop house were all “OK”, as well as Thai Ruby. The Mexican and Chinese places were awful. (We have excellent Mexican here in the West). For the TV being so large, where are the Indian, Vietnamese, Korean, Greek, Cuban, Cajun, German restaurants? Where are the French bistros and Spanish tapas places? I was surprised how “meat and potatoes” and chain-restaurant heavy TV is. I guess I will need to drive to Orlando weekly for some restaurant diversity, or I will be cooking more at home myself. Please don’t think I am bashing the TV in anyway -I can’t want to move in a few months, but I will miss my restaurants.
You should enjoy the MANY options of ethnic food in Orlando.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

There is very little in the way of actual diversity with regards to variety of ethnic food options in the Villages. You can have any of over a dozen kinds of burgers at more than that many restaurants. The Mexican restaurants are all American-Mexican joints such as you would see in "Mexican" chains nationwide, with very few exceptions (Ay Jalisco is one such exception). There is no falafel or Syrian joint within miles, and the only pita you'll find in any restaurant is the fluffy greek style pita.

Taki's idea of greek salad is SHREDDED lettuce, with SHREDDED dry feta, italian pepperoncini, and two kalamata olives with an overabundance of red wine vinegar that makes it almost inedible. They put peppers and grilled onions on their MEATBALL SUBS for crying out loud. There's nothing greek about that. And they use the same meat sauce for EVERYTHING that has red sauce on it.

There are a few pizzerias that a self-respecting New Yorker would consider edible, but none that truly inspire a pizza connoisseur.

Since we are far from any coast, all seafood comes in frozen. You won't find a poutine truck, and most Villagers idea of a cheese curd comes from a "Cottage Cheese" container.

The primary demographic of the Villages, as far as I can tell, wants steak, or tilapia, or other common American foods, want their Mexican food prepared in the traditional American style, think flatbread pizza is pizza, thinks pita bread is fluffy and soft and not suitable to stuff with anything, and so on. Their idea of "good food" is Version #499 of "chicken alfredo" at the more expensive National chain restaurant. It's what the Villagers want, that's what sells, and so that's what will pay the rent in the Villages.

If you want more ethnic foods, you need to go to areas where there are more ethnic people.

[Calisport]

Pretty bad choices even in the big cities here. Think Steak and Shakes and McDonalds

[manaboutown]

You will find the local restaurant food blah at best.

[EdFNJ]

I am moving to TV in a few months from Colorado, and can’t wait! I am the biggest cheerleader for TV here in Colorado, encouraging all my friends who are approaching retirement to book a lifestyle visit. There is one thing I’m going to miss when I move however. TV lacks the restaurant diversity I am used to. I eat out most meals (breakfast and dinner), and enjoy locally owned and ethnic restaurants. I completely stay away from fast food and any chain restaurants. I am an admitted “foodie” and also a pretty good cook myself. During my lifestyle visit, I checked out all the highest rated restaurants based on Yelp reviews. I thought Harvest/Blue Fin/Chop house were all “OK”, as well as Thai Ruby. The Mexican and Chinese places were awful. (We have excellent Mexican here in the West). For the TV being so large, where are the Indian, Vietnamese, Korean, Greek, Cuban, Cajun, German restaurants? Where are the French bistros and Spanish tapas places? I was surprised how “meat and potatoes” and chain-restaurant heavy TV is. I guess I will need to drive to Orlando weekly for some restaurant diversity, or I will be cooking more at home myself. Please don’t think I am bashing the TV in anyway -I can’t want to move in a few months, but I will miss my restaurants.

I know you said "here in The Villages" but If you're up for about a 1 hour drive back to civilization every once in a while check out "Restaurant Row" sort of in Orlando, mostly in Doctor Phillips. Probably a mile long strip on both sides with everything you could imagine from fast food to highest end. Also close by includes 2 Trader Joes & Whole Foods and Universal Studios and 2 Costco's. We go up there almost monthly even during "high season" and even when the traffic is bad, it's really not that bad especially now that Rt4 construction in that area is mostly done.

Orlando's Restaurant Row | Find Dining, Bars & Entertainment (https://www.visitorlando.com/things-to-do/eat-drink/restaurants/dining-and-entertainment-districts/restaurant-row/) and there is likely twice as much as listed at this link.

[Heytubes]

Around the Square in Ocala is pretty good. Mark’s Prime for steak, Ivy House down the street, etc. Flemmings’s or Eddie V’s in Orlando are great too.

[Worldseries27]

i am moving to tv in a few months from colorado, and can’t wait! I am the biggest cheerleader for tv here in colorado, encouraging all my friends who are approaching retirement to book a lifestyle visit. There is one thing i’m going to miss when i move however. Tv lacks the restaurant diversity i am used to. I eat out most meals (breakfast and dinner), and enjoy locally owned and ethnic restaurants. I completely stay away from fast food and any chain restaurants. I am an admitted “foodie” and also a pretty good cook myself. During my lifestyle visit, i checked out all the highest rated restaurants based on yelp reviews. I thought harvest/blue fin/chop house were all “ok”, as well as thai ruby. The mexican and chinese places were awful. (we have excellent mexican here in the west). For the tv being so large, where are the indian, vietnamese, korean, greek, cuban, cajun, german restaurants? Where are the french bistros and spanish tapas places? I was surprised how “meat and potatoes” and chain-restaurant heavy tv is. I guess i will need to drive to orlando weekly for some restaurant diversity, or i will be cooking more at home myself. Please don’t think i am bashing the tv in anyway -i can’t want to move in a few months, but i will miss my restaurants.
impanema brazilian steak house. Upscale restaurant in ocala

[Babubhat]

Orlando. Dr. Phillips area. Restaurant Row is a bit of a culinary melting pot

Orlando's Restaurant Row | Find Dining, Bars & Entertainment (https://www.visitorlando.com/things-to-do/eat-drink/restaurants/dining-and-entertainment-districts/restaurant-row/)

[crash]

I am moving to TV in a few months from Colorado, and can’t wait! I am the biggest cheerleader for TV here in Colorado, encouraging all my friends who are approaching retirement to book a lifestyle visit. There is one thing I’m going to miss when I move however. TV lacks the restaurant diversity I am used to. I eat out most meals (breakfast and dinner), and enjoy locally owned and ethnic restaurants. I completely stay away from fast food and any chain restaurants. I am an admitted “foodie” and also a pretty good cook myself. During my lifestyle visit, I checked out all the highest rated restaurants based on Yelp reviews. I thought Harvest/Blue Fin/Chop house were all “OK”, as well as Thai Ruby. The Mexican and Chinese places were awful. (We have excellent Mexican here in the West). For the TV being so large, where are the Indian, Vietnamese, Korean, Greek, Cuban, Cajun, German restaurants? Where are the French bistros and Spanish tapas places? I was surprised how “meat and potatoes” and chain-restaurant heavy TV is. I guess I will need to drive to Orlando weekly for some restaurant diversity, or I will be cooking more at home myself. Please don’t think I am bashing the TV in anyway -I can’t want to move in a few months, but I will miss my restaurants.

I moved here from California and that is one of the only things I miss. Not sure you can even find the true ethnic food places in Orlando. Central Florida and especially the Villages is an ethnic deserts especially Asian.

[CCristella]

I am moving to tTV in a few months from Colorado, and can’t wait! I am the biggescheerleader for TV here in Colorado, encouraging all my friends who are approaching retirement to book a lifestyle visit. There is one thing I’m going to miss when I move however. TV lacks the restaurant diversity I am used to. I eat out most meals (breakfast and dinner), and enjoy locally owned and ethnic restaurants. I completely stay away from fast food and any chain restaurants. I am an admitted “foodie” and also a pretty good cook myself. During my lifestyle visit, I checked out all the highest rated restaurants based on Yelp reviews. I thought Harvest/Blue Fin/Chop house were all “OK”, as well as Thai Ruby. The Mexican and Chinese places were awful. (We have excellent Mexican here in the West). For the TV being so large, where are the Indian, Vietnamese, Korean, Greek, Cuban, Cajun, German restaurants? Where are the French bistros and Spanish tapas places? I was surprised how “meat and potatoes” and chain-restaurant heavy TV is. I guess I will need to drive to Orlando weekly for some restaurant diversity, or I will be cooking more at home myself. Please don’t think I am bashing the TV in anyway -I can’t want to move in a few months, but I will miss my restaurants.
The restaurants you are
looking for are in Palm Beach County
Fine inning is non existent in TV

[terenceanne]

Also, no Portuguese or Spanish place for garlic shrimp, Paella etc.......and forget about finding a decent bagel. The lack of food options is one of the very few things I hear people complain about here in paradise.

[NotGolfer]

Remember you're moving to a new state and with it is a new culture (southern). So many folks will share on social media about what they miss here in T.V. that they once had. You'll not find "here" will be like "there". You might have to discard some expectations and habits from before. As we age "change" is harder to accept but it's a factor we all go through---liking it or not. You're exchanging where you live for a new "Life-Style" and that's what sells The Villages. Hopefully you'll find contentment and happiness wherever you live.

[NoMo50]

It is what it is. You obviously chose The Villages for a reason, and there are a good many reasons to make the choice. However, I can't recall any Villages promotions where grand diversity in dining was touted, and certainly not via golf car. Like the rest of us, you will quickly learn what is available, and what is not. What works, and what does not. Whether, for you, the plusses outweigh the minuses.

But please: You moved here from there. Here is not like there. Don't try to make here like there.

[SeaCros]

Options here are like you know what!! The Villages is still considered a small town even for the size. You have folks from all of the US and some from other countries. With that being said, to have restaurants to appeal to everyone is quite difficult. TV has its staple food spots but for a “foodie” it will leave you disappointed. To venture outside of “The Bubble” is going to be your best bet to explore what might be better options. Good luck on your searches.

[Dlbonivich]

Cuban is Villa Piñar Cafeteria in Summerfield

[Caymus]

High population growth areas of the country tend to get corporate owned generic type restaurants. You need to find an ethnically diverse area to find more unique options. The Villages is about 99% White.

[tallmanf]

You will tire very quickly of the choices in TV.

[airstreamingypsy]

I sit here all summer kicking myself for not buy that house in Colorado...... Ocala has restaurants that will please you. Stirrups, at the World Equestrian Center, will knock your socks off...... bring $$$$ Don't expect diversity in the least diverse place,

[allsport]

I am moving to TV in a few months from Colorado, and can’t wait! I am the biggest cheerleader for TV here in Colorado, encouraging all my friends who are approaching retirement to book a lifestyle visit. There is one thing I’m going to miss when I move however. TV lacks the restaurant diversity I am used to. I eat out most meals (breakfast and dinner), and enjoy locally owned and ethnic restaurants. I completely stay away from fast food and any chain restaurants. I am an admitted “foodie” and also a pretty good cook myself. During my lifestyle visit, I checked out all the highest rated restaurants based on Yelp reviews. I thought Harvest/Blue Fin/Chop house were all “OK”, as well as Thai Ruby. The Mexican and Chinese places were awful. (We have excellent Mexican here in the West). For the TV being so large, where are the Indian, Vietnamese, Korean, Greek, Cuban, Cajun, German restaurants? Where are the French bistros and Spanish tapas places? I was surprised how “meat and potatoes” and chain-restaurant heavy TV is. I guess I will need to drive to Orlando weekly for some restaurant diversity, or I will be cooking more at home myself. Please don’t think I am bashing the TV in anyway -I can’t want to move in a few months, but I will miss my restaurants.

Many of the people who live here come from MI and OH and the part of the country that eats meat and potatoes and afraid to try anything foodie. There is a gourmet dining club that ventures off the grid and offers lots of good information about restaurants all over the area.

[Rwirish]

Regardless of where you live the best place to eat us at home. Dining out should be a treat.

Don’t encourage more people to come, way overcrowded already!

[cphubbell@aol.com]

Will disagree with Takis. People tell us only good place to get good Greek food is in Tarpon springs over an hour away.

Try Lakis in Ocala for Greek food . Small, in a strip mall but good Greek food.

[LG999]

I guess we all miss or will miss certain things.
We have all the various restaurants imaginable here in NYC, but it is the museums, schools & beaches I will miss

[Lindsyburnsy]

You have diversified dining in communities that are diversified. Have you actually looked around in TV?

[fishon]

We certainly are diversified.
We have all levels of well to do white people.
Sheesh!

[Barkriver]

I wonder if you tried Bamboo Bistro (Asian Fusian) in the Rolling Acres plaza; or Pho Saigon at the intersection of 466 and 301.

[RiderOnTheStorm]

Will disagree with Takis. People tell us only good place to get good Greek food is in Tarpon springs over an hour away.

If you like cajun/creole cooking, you can't beat "Harry's" in Ocala. About a 40 minutes drive. Great steak place a few hundred yards away.

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

If someone thought that they would make money with one of those ethnic restaurants I'm sure they would exist in The Villages.

I'm guessing that you are in a small minority that would frequent these places.

I have a friend who says that he wouldn't live anywhere that doesn't have Ethiopian food nearby. I'm sure that an Ethiopian restaurant in TV would go out of business in a very short time.

There is a Greek restaurant just outside The Villages on 27/441 and is golf cart accessible.

There's an excellent Mexican restaurant on the historic side just off of 27/441.

I find most Chinese food here to be OK, but it's not like my home town. zNot bad, just different. The three Japanese restaurants are excellent. For Italian, a few in TV are OK but there are three just outside the borders that are great, Napolino's, Francesco's and Little Joey's.

The other thing about this is when people say that a particular type of food is terrible here, they are comparing it to what they had where they came from. I often find that the food is not terrible, it's simply different.

[Joe Folker]

I unfortunately have to totally agree with your comment.

[Skip]

... I am an admitted “foodie” and also a pretty good cook myself. During my lifestyle visit, I checked out all the highest rated restaurants based on Yelp reviews. I thought Harvest/Blue Fin/Chop house were all “OK”, as well as Thai Ruby. The Mexican and Chinese places were awful. (We have excellent Mexican here in the West). For the TV being so large, where are the Indian, Vietnamese, Korean, Greek, Cuban, Cajun, German restaurants? Where are the French bistros and Spanish tapas places? ... I can’t want to move in a few months, but I will miss my restaurants.

You would fit right in with The Villages Gourmet Club (https://thevillagesgourmetclub.com). They know where the best ethnic and diversified restaurants are. Their huge database is Searchable (https://thevillagesgourmetclub.com/search.html) too. They've been around since 2006. The reviews are screened and verified by the club leaders. Yelp posts glowing reviews from the restaurant owners themselves and even the nasty ones from the restaurant owners across the street. The reviews are not in chronological order. It's full of ads and sponsored top billing too. You can't rely on Yelp! (IMHO). Too easy to "stuff the ballot box" in your own favor and it highlights locations that buy advertising.

But keep an open mind. When 10 people try a new restaurant you might get 10 different experiences. Also early patrons find that the kinks have not been ironed out yet and might rate their experience poorly.

Besides Dining Out, the club has Dining In groups that create shared meals at home for about 8 members. Sounds like you would fit right in with either group.

The count right now is 111 full service restaurants INSIDE The Villages (well, golf cart accessible anyway). That's hard to beat in any metropolis.

The club's Info Page (https://thevillagesgourmetclub.com/info.html) has all the details and when the next club meeting is (I think it's Oct. 2nd).

Welcome to The Villages, Michael.

Skip

[fdpaq0580]

I unfortunately have to totally agree with your comment.

??? Which comment???

[fdpaq0580]

Personally, I find most of the finest food alternatives to be C+ at best.
One of the reasons is that, using Mexican food as the example, Mexican food typically found in Colorado will be different from what you find in California, which is different from Arizona, which is different from Texas, etc. Regional ingredients, spices, typical sides vary. Excellent to one may be hideous to another. Also, authenticity takes a hit when you have cooks trained in one culture style trying to prepare food of another culture.
Come to TV for the lifestyle. Toss your foodie hopes or expectations out the window.

[Stu from NYC]

I unfortunately have to totally agree with your comment.

Thanks but which comment?

[Worldseries27]

thanks but which comment?
# 44 chronologicallly

[RPDaly]

----

[Skip]

I was surprised that there is not one Indian restaurant near the Villages outside of traveling to Ocala. Has there ever been one?

Yup! Where Dutz's Sports Page used to be in La Plaza Grande. Originally Urban Curry, it folded. Then Urban Grill, slightly different Indian menu, that folded too. The one in Lake Square Mall, The Tandoor, also folded.

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[Regorp]

I am moving to TV in a few months from Colorado, and can’t wait! I am the biggest cheerleader for TV here in Colorado, encouraging all my friends who are approaching retirement to book a lifestyle visit. There is one thing I’m going to miss when I move however. TV lacks the restaurant diversity I am used to. I eat out most meals (breakfast and dinner), and enjoy locally owned and ethnic restaurants. I completely stay away from fast food and any chain restaurants. I am an admitted “foodie” and also a pretty good cook myself. During my lifestyle visit, I checked out all the highest rated restaurants based on Yelp reviews. I thought Harvest/Blue Fin/Chop house were all “OK”, as well as Thai Ruby. The Mexican and Chinese places were awful. (We have excellent Mexican here in the West). For the TV being so large, where are the Indian, Vietnamese, Korean, Greek, Cuban, Cajun, German restaurants? Where are the French bistros and Spanish tapas places? I was surprised how “meat and potatoes” and chain-restaurant heavy TV is. I guess I will need to drive to Orlando weekly for some restaurant diversity, or I will be cooking more at home myself. Please don’t think I am bashing the TV in anyway -I can’t want to move in a few months, but I will miss my restaurants.
We feel your pain. Just moved in and loved this Korean restaurant "Gobi", where you filled a plate with various food which is then cooked in front of you by "wizard" chef's. Is there a place like this here? Maybe I should have suggested they move from CT to TV.

[manaboutown]

Personally, I find most of the finest food alternatives to be C+ at best.
One of the reasons is that, using Mexican food as the example, Mexican food typically found in Colorado will be different from what you find in California, which is different from Arizona, which is different from Texas, etc. Regional ingredients, spices, typical sides vary. Excellent to one may be hideous to another. Also, authenticity takes a hit when you have cooks trained in one culture style trying to prepare food of another culture.
Come to TV for the lifestyle. Toss your foodie hopes or expectations out the window.

I grew up in NM. The (New) Mexican food there varies considerably. What you find in Santa Fe, Taos, Rancho Chimayo or Northern NM in general is vastly different from what you will find in Southern NM. The chiles are different. Red or Green is the big question all over the state though. Tex-Mex is a whole 'nother story and I know little about it or what Mexican food tastes like in Arizona.

One of my favorite: Tomasita’s New Mexican Restaurant | Best New Mexican Food Restaurant Santa Fe | Best Margaritas (https://tomasitas.com)

To me, Southern California offers the best food as fruits and vegetables grow there and nearby in Mexico year round. Fresh fish come out of the Pacific Ocean. Fresh ingredients make a huge difference not only in nutrition but in flavor. Ethnic food of just about any persuasion abounds.

My favorite in CA. I happen to have known the family since 1990. The are getting into other states now including New Jersey!
Wahoo's Fish Taco (https://www.wahoos.com)

Until quite recently every population in the world cooked with what they could grow, raise or otherwise was locally available.

[Stu from NYC]

We feel your pain. Just moved in and loved this Korean restaurant "Gobi", where you filled a plate with various food which is then cooked in front of you by "wizard" chef's. Is there a place like this here? Maybe I should have suggested they move from CT to TV.

Lake county has a Mongolian bbq restaurant called Ichiban that is the closest I know of

[Just jimmy]

I am moving to TV in a few months from Colorado, and can’t wait! I am the biggest cheerleader for TV here in Colorado, encouraging all my friends who are approaching retirement to book a lifestyle visit. There is one thing I’m going to miss when I move however. TV lacks the restaurant diversity I am used to. I eat out most meals (breakfast and dinner), and enjoy locally owned and ethnic restaurants. I completely stay away from fast food and any chain restaurants. I am an admitted “foodie” and also a pretty good cook myself. During my lifestyle visit, I checked out all the highest rated restaurants based on Yelp reviews. I thought Harvest/Blue Fin/Chop house were all “OK”, as well as Thai Ruby. The Mexican and Chinese places were awful. (We have excellent Mexican here in the West). For the TV being so large, where are the Indian, Vietnamese, Korean, Greek, Cuban, Cajun, German restaurants? Where are the French bistros and Spanish tapas places? I was surprised how “meat and potatoes” and chain-restaurant heavy TV is. I guess I will need to drive to Orlando weekly for some restaurant diversity, or I will be cooking more at home myself. Please don’t think I am bashing the TV in anyway -I can’t want to move in a few months, but I will miss my restaurants.

Lots of great restaurants in ocala. About 40 minutes away. We tend to go out if tv for nicer restaurants

[lindaelane]

I regret moving here due to lack of restaurant diversity. I see people below talking about going to Ocala or Mt. Dora to get diversity. Minimum 50-mile round trip - for most it would be much more.

Our Chinese is not good. We have seafood, Italian (OK), Vietnamese (good), Mexican ( about 3 good ones), Deli, one Thai (not very good) and American. There is a place that serves "Greek" but the pita bread is thick and cold so I don't go there, and it is only one place. There are a few places in the lower part of Hwy 441 but travel on that "one main highway" is congested and unpleasant.

Yes, you can go on the long trip to Ocala for a special occasion to get French, Korean, Brazilian, Indian and authentic Hispanic (not Tex-Mex). But the drive is irritating (speeders, heat, etc.) and gas is likely to remain high. There is nothing like Middle Eastern, Columbian, Ethopian, etc. - cuisines I have enjoyed elsewhere - and there is no likelihood there ever will be that I can see.

I like many things about this place but the lack of restaurant diversity is something I wish I had known about.

Bonus: I have learned cook some new dishes.

[Darield]

I am moving to TV in a few months from Colorado, and can’t wait! I am the biggest cheerleader for TV here in Colorado, encouraging all my friends who are approaching retirement to book a lifestyle visit. There is one thing I’m going to miss when I move however. TV lacks the restaurant diversity I am used to. I eat out most meals (breakfast and dinner), and enjoy locally owned and ethnic restaurants. I completely stay away from fast food and any chain restaurants. I am an admitted “foodie” and also a pretty good cook myself. During my lifestyle visit, I checked out all the highest rated restaurants based on Yelp reviews. I thought Harvest/Blue Fin/Chop house were all “OK”, as well as Thai Ruby. The Mexican and Chinese places were awful. (We have excellent Mexican here in the West). For the TV being so large, where are the Indian, Vietnamese, Korean, Greek, Cuban, Cajun, German restaurants? Where are the French bistros and Spanish tapas places? I was surprised how “meat and potatoes” and chain-restaurant heavy TV is. I guess I will need to drive to Orlando weekly for some restaurant diversity, or I will be cooking more at home myself. Please don’t think I am bashing the TV in anyway -I can’t want to move in a few months, but I will miss my restaurants.
We moved from Colorado and the restaurant situation was also difficult for me. I saw someone listed Pho Saigon and that is one of our favorites. I was shocked that there was no German in TV. Although there is Indian in Mt. Dora and Ocala, I really miss the wonderful lunch buffets that they had in CO. German is just OK in Mt Dora, Hollerbachs in Sanford is much better but it is quite a hike.
I'm not quite sure why meat and potato chains are so popular here but not my husbands and my favorite either. Colorado has wonderful Mexican. We have found a few descent Mexican restaurants here. There is a lot so you will just have to experiment.

[Stu from NYC]

I regret moving here due to lack of restaurant diversity. I see people below talking about going to Ocala or Mt. Dora to get diversity. Minimum 50-mile round trip - for most it would be much more.

Our Chinese is not good. We have seafood, Italian (OK), Vietnamese (good), Mexican ( about 3 good ones), Deli, one Thai (not very good) and American. There is a place that serves "Greek" but the pita bread is thick and cold so I don't go there, and it is only one place. There are a few places in the lower part of Hwy 441 but travel on that "one main highway" is congested and unpleasant.

Yes, you can go on the long trip to Ocala for a special occasion to get French, Korean, Brazilian, Indian and authentic Hispanic (not Tex-Mex). But the drive is irritating (speeders, heat, etc.) and gas is likely to remain high. There is nothing like Middle Eastern, Columbian, Ethopian, etc. - cuisines I have enjoyed elsewhere - and there is no likelihood there ever will be that I can see.

I like many things about this place but the lack of restaurant diversity is something I wish I had known about.

Bonus: I have learned cook some new dishes.

We find Kayame (Chinese/Thai) and Sunrise (Chinese) to be good. Do not expect to see Columbian or Ethiopian or a good Middle Eastern restaurant to ever open or be sucessful if they did.

We are going to Ocala more and more.

[Stu from NYC]

We certainly are diversified.
We have all levels of well to do white people.
Sheesh!

Lots of Caucasian people here because they wanted to come but as far as I know there is no discrimination being practiced here. Are you saying there is?

[Darield]

I am moving to TV in a few months from Colorado, and can’t wait! I am the biggest cheerleader for TV here in Colorado, encouraging all my friends who are approaching retirement to book a lifestyle visit. There is one thing I’m going to miss when I move however. TV lacks the restaurant diversity I am used to. I eat out most meals (breakfast and dinner), and enjoy locally owned and ethnic restaurants. I completely stay away from fast food and any chain restaurants. I am an admitted “foodie” and also a pretty good cook myself. During my lifestyle visit, I checked out all the highest rated restaurants based on Yelp reviews. I thought Harvest/Blue Fin/Chop house were all “OK”, as well as Thai Ruby. The Mexican and Chinese places were awful. (We have excellent Mexican here in the West). For the TV being so large, where are the Indian, Vietnamese, Korean, Greek, Cuban, Cajun, German restaurants? Where are the French bistros and Spanish tapas places? I was surprised how “meat and potatoes” and chain-restaurant heavy TV is. I guess I will need to drive to Orlando weekly for some restaurant diversity, or I will be cooking more at home myself. Please don’t think I am bashing the TV in anyway -I can’t want to move in a few months, but I will miss my restaurants.
One more restaurant that's worth a try. there's been controversy that they are expensive but their food is really fresh and they have many good gluten free options including fantastic fried chicken. Their sides are also different. It's Farmshed in Spanish Springs.

[valuemkt]

Coming from Atlanta, while we had some restaurants within a few miles, it wasn't unusual to travel (and wait in traffic) 30-45 minutes or more each way to some restaurants that were our favorites. So, draw a big circle that contains Tampa, Orlando and Ocala, and within a reasonable drive you will find something you like. No, you won't be there in five minutes, and no you won;t reach there by golf cart. And if you read other blogs, many of the places you might like will be out of the price range that many Villagers are willing to spend. In addition to the aforementioned cities, the towns of Mt Dora, Clermont and others will have selections other than fried bar food.. Flemings in the Dr Philips area of Orlando is very nice, as is Mark's in Ocala. Both give a traditional steak house feel with the decor, the service and of course the quality of the food. I understand Charlie's in Tampa is in the vein as well. For another level, you have bern's in Tampa, CHatham House near Flemings in Orlando, and Stirrups in the Equestrian Center of Ocala. As also mentioned, Tarpon Springs is the Greek restaurant magnet, with Clermont and Mt Dora having very credible Indian offerings. IMO, within the Villages, Nancy Lopez, PRIMA and Havana are the better offerings, but while upscale for the Villages, lack the ethnic offerings you;re looking for. Last I knew, the very upscale restaurant on Disney grounds was still closed. Before you get used to staying in the bubble, you will have plenty of places to exhaust yourself a pleasant car ride away.

[coffeebean]

Will disagree with Takis. People tell us only good place to get good Greek food is in Tarpon springs over an hour away.

I don't care for Greek food but my husband likes the Greek restaurant in Spanish Springs.

[TOMTOFVIL]

Please tell me where I can find all these great restaurants in the Thornton area?

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

I don't care for Greek food but my husband likes the Greek restaurant in Spanish Springs.

Amerikanos Grille? Another "Americanized" "ethnic" restaurant. They use dry feta, canned kalamatas, italian-style olive oil blend, what they call falafel aren't falafel, and what kind of Greek serves hummus with a dill pickle?

Their gyros meat isn't off the spit - and isn't pork or chicken. Their "chicken pita" comes with provolone and tzatziki, which is like putting ranch dressing on a ceasar salad.

There's really nothing authentically Greek about Amerikanos.

[EdFNJ]

I don't care for Greek food but my husband likes the Greek restaurant in Spanish Springs. They are about as authentic "Greek" as Pubix's deli counter is an authentic New York Kosher Deli. :D

[thelegges]

I don't care for Greek food but my husband likes the Greek restaurant in Spanish Springs.

We lived next to the families that were just like “My Big Fat Greek Wedding ”. Even though we had Greek Town in the “D”, our neighbors Yia-Yia made food one could only dream about.

Takis really doesn’t come close to authentic Greek Food. Everyone is right Tarpin Springs is worth the trip.

Sadly OP you will not find Foodie Restaurants in the bubble. But if you travel outside there are good ethnic restaurants.

[kkingston57]

Regardless of where you live the best place to eat us at home. Dining out should be a treat.

Don’t encourage more people to come, way overcrowded already!

Writer was looking for diversity. DIfficult to do this at home.

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

Personally, I find most of the finest food alternatives to be C+ at best.
One of the reasons is that, using Mexican food as the example, Mexican food typically found in Colorado will be different from what you find in California, which is different from Arizona, which is different from Texas, etc. Regional ingredients, spices, typical sides vary. Excellent to one may be hideous to another. Also, authenticity takes a hit when you have cooks trained in one culture style trying to prepare food of another culture.
Come to TV for the lifestyle. Toss your foodie hopes or expectations out the window.

I think that’s exactly what I said in post #44.

[pauld315]

Still looking for a good soul food restaurant I can go to on my golf cart

[Stu from NYC]

Still looking for a good soul food restaurant I can go to on my golf cart

Think you will have to go well outside the bubble to find one

[Garywt]

Coming from New England it is hard to find food to match what we are use to. The fact that no one even knows what steak tips are is bothersome. If you removed all the fast food in The Villages there would be very few restaurants. I am not a big Chinese person but was told not to bother as it is bad. Mexican I have tried a couple places but not to good. Steak and potatoes is my go to but Texas Roadhouse is the best for that. Pizza is tough as well but we have found a couple places we go to. Red Sauce is probably our favorite restaurant there. Lunch at some of the country clubs is good as well.

[fdpaq0580]

I think that’s exactly what I said in post #44.

Great minds think alike!
One difference is that you said the three Japanese were "excellent". I, personally, find them acceptable only because we have nothing authentic ( imo, based on my time in Japan).

[Stu from NYC]

Great minds think alike!
One difference is that you said the three Japanese were "excellent". I, personally, find them acceptable only because we have nothing authentic ( imo, based on my time in Japan).

We think Chinese restaurants in NYC were good to very good but compared to Chinese restaurants in China not even close to being authentic

[BRN_RI_FL]

We do Chinese take-out occasionally here in RI and there are 3-4 restaurants within a short drive. We find Koyame superior to the Chinese restaurants up here. I wish I could say there are other restaurants we prefer in The Villages over RI/MA/CT nearby restaurants but we haven’t found them yet.

[Stu from NYC]

We do Chinese take-out occasionally here in RI and there are 3-4 restaurants within a short drive. We find Koyame superior to the Chinese restaurants up here. I wish I could say there are other restaurants we prefer in The Villages over RI/MA/CT nearby restaurants but we haven’t found them yet.

Now understand that Koyame was sold about a year ago but we have not found any change in quality.

Rumor has it the previous ownership is in the process of opening a new restaurant and will definitely give it a try when we find out when and where.

[champion6]

I am moving to TV in a few months from Colorado, and can’t wait! I am the biggest cheerleader for TV here in Colorado, encouraging all my friends who are approaching retirement to book a lifestyle visit. There is one thing I’m going to miss when I move however. TV lacks the restaurant diversity I am used to. I eat out most meals (breakfast and dinner), and enjoy locally owned and ethnic restaurants. I completely stay away from fast food and any chain restaurants. I am an admitted “foodie” and also a pretty good cook myself. During my lifestyle visit, I checked out all the highest rated restaurants based on Yelp reviews. I thought Harvest/Blue Fin/Chop house were all “OK”, as well as Thai Ruby. The Mexican and Chinese places were awful. (We have excellent Mexican here in the West). For the TV being so large, where are the Indian, Vietnamese, Korean, Greek, Cuban, Cajun, German restaurants? Where are the French bistros and Spanish tapas places? I was surprised how “meat and potatoes” and chain-restaurant heavy TV is. I guess I will need to drive to Orlando weekly for some restaurant diversity, or I will be cooking more at home myself. Please don’t think I am bashing the TV in anyway -I can’t want to move in a few months, but I will miss my restaurants.Here's a list of places to dine in and near TV. Take it for what it's worth.

[Ecuadog]

Here's a list of places to dine in and near TV. Take it for what it's worth.

Thank you for that list.

[Taltarzac725]

The Villages Gourmet Club Restaurant Review Site (https://thevillagesgourmetclub.com/)

You may want to check this site out.

[Rainger99]

I am moving to TV in a few months from Colorado, and can’t wait! I am the biggest cheerleader for TV here in Colorado, encouraging all my friends who are approaching retirement to book a lifestyle visit. There is one thing I’m going to miss when I move however. TV lacks the restaurant diversity I am used to. I eat out most meals (breakfast and dinner), and enjoy locally owned and ethnic restaurants. I completely stay away from fast food and any chain restaurants. I am an admitted “foodie” and also a pretty good cook myself. During my lifestyle visit, I checked out all the highest rated restaurants based on Yelp reviews. I thought Harvest/Blue Fin/Chop house were all “OK”, as well as Thai Ruby. The Mexican and Chinese places were awful. (We have excellent Mexican here in the West). For the TV being so large, where are the Indian, Vietnamese, Korean, Greek, Cuban, Cajun, German restaurants? Where are the French bistros and Spanish tapas places? I was surprised how “meat and potatoes” and chain-restaurant heavy TV is. I guess I will need to drive to Orlando weekly for some restaurant diversity, or I will be cooking more at home myself. Please don’t think I am bashing the TV in anyway -I can’t want to move in a few months, but I will miss my restaurants.

You don't say where you live in Colorado but if you have Mexican, Chinese, Indian, Vietnamese, Korean, Greek, Cuban, Cajun, and German restaurants, I assume that you live in a fairly large metropolitan area. Most small towns do not have a lot of restaurant diversity. The population of Sumter County is only about 130,000. The Denver metro are is about 3,000,000. The Orlando metro area is about 2,500,000.

A lot of restaurant diversity is based on the local population. You get a lot of Cuban restaurants in Miami. Sumter County is about 84% white; 6% black; 6% hispanic; mixed 2%; and Asian and Pacific Islander are under 1%.

If you have a lot of ethnics living in your area, you will get more ethnic restaurants. I was in New York's Chinatown one time and the area was probably 90% Asian. Until we get a more diverse population (either in the Villages or the surrounding areas), I do not think we will get a lot of diverse restaurants.

[Stu from NYC]

You don't say where you live in Colorado but if you have Mexican, Chinese, Indian, Vietnamese, Korean, Greek, Cuban, Cajun, and German restaurants, I assume that you live in a fairly large metropolitan area. Most small towns do not have a lot of restaurant diversity. The population of Sumter County is only about 130,000. The Denver metro are is about 3,000,000. The Orlando metro area is about 2,500,000.

A lot of restaurant diversity is based on the local population. You get a lot of Cuban restaurants in Miami. Sumter County is about 84% white; 6% black; 6% hispanic; mixed 2%; and Asian and Pacific Islander are under 1%.

If you have a lot of ethnics living in your area, you will get more ethnic restaurants. I was in New York's Chinatown one time and the area was probably 90% Asian. Until we get a more diverse population (either in the Villages or the surrounding areas), I do not think we will get a lot of diverse restaurants.

Very true unless we become known as an area that likes ethnic food.

[Viperguy]

Came from the Denver area myself. Miss the metro area when it comes to restaurant quality so it is hit or miss here. Large turnover and few good "chefs". Just cooks here that change jobs frequently but there are some hidden spots. You'll find them. BTW if you have any health issues, do your research. The Denver area has far better alternatives than central Florida....I spent a full two years getting care that I'm happy with. Just saying

[Veiragirl]

I am moving to TV in a few months from Colorado, and can’t wait! I am the biggest cheerleader for TV here in Colorado, encouraging all my friends who are approaching retirement to book a lifestyle visit. There is one thing I’m going to miss when I move however. TV lacks the restaurant diversity I am used to. I eat out most meals (breakfast and dinner), and enjoy locally owned and ethnic restaurants. I completely stay away from fast food and any chain restaurants. I am an admitted “foodie” and also a pretty good cook myself. During my lifestyle visit, I checked out all the highest rated restaurants based on Yelp reviews. I thought Harvest/Blue Fin/Chop house were all “OK”, as well as Thai Ruby. The Mexican and Chinese places were awful. (We have excellent Mexican here in the West). For the TV being so large, where are the Indian, Vietnamese, Korean, Greek, Cuban, Cajun, German restaurants? Where are the French bistros and Spanish tapas places? I was surprised how “meat and potatoes” and chain-restaurant heavy TV is. I guess I will need to drive to Orlando weekly for some restaurant diversity, or I will be cooking more at home myself. Please don’t think I am bashing the TV in anyway -I can’t want to move in a few months, but I will miss my restaurants.


You don't move to Florida for the food