Sawgrass Grove Market - Nothing but the FACTS

[Graspher]

Our first visit was Sunday 9/11 - arrived 12:05 p.m. About 50 people milling around - 20 surrounding the bar area - 4 tables were occupied.

Chose Frenchy's for a wood-fired pizza - 4 employees working the pizza production.

"I'd like a medium pepperoni and sausage pizza".

"We only make one size and it's 12 inches. You can't order a pepperoni and sausage pizza. You can only order a pizza as described on our menu - but we can add and subtract toppings."

Their menu details 5 or 6 pizza combinations (each selectable pizza has several toppings on it). One of their selections includes sausage plus other toppings and another of their selections features pepperoni plus other toppings.

We chose their "sausage" pizza - deleted the onions - deleted the roasted green peppers...and added pepperoni.

The sausage combo pizza is priced at $15.00. No monetary deduction for eliminating the onions or peppers. There was an upcharge of $3.00 for the pepperoni. Total including a tax of $1.36 was $19.36.

I handed over $20 in cash. The receipt showed Total Due 19.36 / pymt cash 20.00 / Change Due .64. The cash register knows change is due - but Frenchy's policy is - they don't give coin change. They have a sign that says no coin provided but it is not located near the register.

Our pizza order was placed at 12:13pm (per the receipt). Our boxed pizza was presented to us at 12:48pm. Paper plates were not offered - but were provided upon request. The paper plates were....more paper then anything else. Very flimsy and couldn't support the weight of a small slice of pizza with just two toppings on it.

Frenchy's uses a wood-fired oven. The bottom of the crust was not crispy and was absent any degree of visible leoparding.

Darlin's Sweet Shoppe will not accept cash - only cards.

At least one other establishment (possibly 2) have signs posted indicating they will not provide any coin type change.

The majority of seating in the market area consists of flat steel or solid wood seat bottoms.

Them the facts and nothing but the facts...

[Stu from NYC]

And to think we once had legal tender.

Guess they think they are doing you a favor even making your pizza.

[Two Bills]

What is the world coming too?
Back in my youth, you could even get the staff to eat the pizza for you if you were in a hurry!:D

[kkingston57]

Just got back from Canada and they have eliminated the use of pennies. Agree that is a good idea. Article discussed no cash/change. Looks like business owner does not trust own employees. Next thing biz will want us to use phone to pay bills. Not a good idea especially in TV.

[retiredguy123]

After reading the facts, I'll go out on a limb, and conclude that the OP was not exactly delighted with Sawgrass Grove.

[coffeebean]

After reading the facts, I'll go out on a limb, and conclude that the OP was not exactly delighted with Sawgrass Grove.

That would be my guess.

[retiredguy123]

So, statistically, if you process 50 cash transactions, you will make an extra 25 dollars by keeping the coin change. That assumes that the customers do not use any coins either.

[Babubhat]

Call Morgan and Morgan. They enjoy class action suits. The more people not given change the better.

[alwann]

Our first visit was Sunday 9/11 - arrived 12:05 p.m. About 50 people milling around - 20 surrounding the bar area - 4 tables were occupied.

Chose Frenchy's for a wood-fired pizza - 4 employees working the pizza production.

"I'd like a medium pepperoni and sausage pizza".

"We only make one size and it's 12 inches. You can't order a pepperoni and sausage pizza. You can only order a pizza as described on our menu - but we can add and subtract toppings."

Their menu details 5 or 6 pizza combinations (each selectable pizza has several toppings on it). One of their selections includes sausage plus other toppings and another of their selections features pepperoni plus other toppings.

We chose their "sausage" pizza - deleted the onions - deleted the roasted green peppers...and added pepperoni.

The sausage combo pizza is priced at $15.00. No monetary deduction for eliminating the onions or peppers. There was an upcharge of $3.00 for the pepperoni. Total including a tax of $1.36 was $19.36.

I handed over $20 in cash. The receipt showed Total Due 19.36 / pymt cash 20.00 / Change Due .64. The cash register knows change is due - but Frenchy's policy is - they don't give coin change. They have a sign that says no coin provided but it is not located near the register.

Our pizza order was placed at 12:13pm (per the receipt). Our boxed pizza was presented to us at 12:48pm. Paper plates were not offered - but were provided upon request. The paper plates were....more paper then anything else. Very flimsy and couldn't support the weight of a small slice of pizza with just two toppings on it.

Frenchy's uses a wood-fired oven. The bottom of the crust was not crispy and was absent any degree of visible leoparding.

Darlin's Sweet Shoppe will not accept cash - only cards.

At least one other establishment (possibly 2) have signs posted indicating they will not provide any coin type change.

The majority of seating in the market area consists of flat steel or solid wood seat bottoms.

Them the facts and nothing but the facts...

Please don't tell me they also had a tip jar.

[ThirdOfFive]

"Darlin's Sweet Shoppe will not accept cash - only cards."

"This note is legal tender for all debts, public and private" ($1 bill, U.S. currency)

[JRP2TV]

I haven't used cash or coins in years. Using a card and paying it in full each month is much easier, cleaner and profitable with perks.

[Stu from NYC]

Please don't tell me they also had a tip jar.

Probably a very big one at that

[retiredguy123]

I haven't used cash or coins in years. Using a card and paying it in full each month is much easier, cleaner and profitable with perks.
At Palmers Country Club, it will cost you an extra 3.75 percent to use a credit card. Probably not profitable there.

[PugMom]

After reading the facts, I'll go out on a limb, and conclude that the OP was not exactly delighted with Sawgrass Grove.

i did make it over there last week, & i hate to admit it, but was disappointed in the businesses inside & design. the place appears to still be under construction-the stage isn't even set up, or seats installed. the food/drink offerings were limited @ best. i will return again soon, some months from now & give a second look. it's early on, & i'm sure will get better :thumbup:

[VApeople]

it's early on, & i'm sure will get better

Yeah, we feel the same way.

We have been at Sawgrass a few times and were not impressed. Even Goldwingnut, in his recent video, commented how noisy it was, and that was when there was no singer inside.

It did not seem to be a place where we would like to stop and have a drink or a snack after riding our bikes.

Anyway, we will keep on enjoying our life in TV and see if Sawgrass improves. If not, we know a lot of other places that we enjoy.

[dewilson58]

Kinda sad, Kinda funny.

[Laker14]

Kinda sad, Kinda funny.

Tragi-comedy. An apt description.

The pizzas must be pre-made, frozen. They can pick the onions off for you, but they still had to buy them, so you still gotta pay for them.

To the OP, was the pizza tasty? How was the crust, other than not being crispy? I'm pretty fussy about my pies, and I don't think I'd bother ordering one there, based upon your review.

[Graspher]

After reading the facts, I'll go out on a limb, and conclude that the OP was not exactly delighted with Sawgrass Grove.

Personally....yes, I was disappointed. Based on many many small reasons (the facts I provided along with observations I didn't detail) - that when combined it generated a significant letdown. But that's just me.

[Graspher]

Please don't tell me they also had a tip jar.

They did not at Frenchy's....and I don't recall seeing any at the other retailers - but I wasn't looking that closely.

[Graspher]

"Darlin's Sweet Shoppe will not accept cash - only cards."

"This note is legal tender for all debts, public and private" ($1 bill, U.S. currency)


Excellent point. My visit was... eye-opening.

[thelegges]

We stopped on Wednesday, at 6:30 more employees than patrons. Very quiet, with lack of people. Ordered a burger, because it’s a smash burger it only has one temp. That’s sad for us since we are rare to mid. Bun was a brioche held up well, bacon was crispy, cheddar cheese. We split and they asked if we wanted it cut in half. Came on a heavy cardboard tray with our condiments. For a well done burger, it had a nice flavor, not dry. Not a bad burger, just not great, for us due to well done. People sitting next to us had the pizza, commenting that for wood fire crust was not done to their liking.
Got a cookie at Darlings, it’s a large thick cookie, maybe 4-5oz. Not close to Gideon’s, $6 cookie, or homemade, but for those who don’t bake it’s a ok cookie for $4

[Stu from NYC]

Based on what the OP wrote think the pizza was third rate at best. Apparently they have not figured out the heating of the wood fired oven

[Graspher]

Tragi-comedy. An apt description.

The pizzas must be pre-made, frozen. They can pick the onions off for you, but they still had to buy them, so you still gotta pay for them.

To the OP, was the pizza tasty? How was the crust, other than not being crispy? I'm pretty fussy about my pies, and I don't think I'd bother ordering one there, based upon your review.

I'm going to go out on a limb - because I don't have a factual answer - but based on the taste and texture of the pizza I'm leaning towards it not being a pre-made frozen concoction.

Pizza review - here it is, my opinion. This was my first wood-fired pizza (and I've had lots from lots of different places) that had a soft bottom and the dough is more on the thin side then thick side. Same with leoparding - never had a wood-fired that didn't have a beautiful pattern of leoparding. It's very possible they pulled the pizza off the stone before it was done.

The very top of the crust had a few burn marks...way less then normal for a wood-fired pizza.

There was plenty of cheese and it seemed fresh - I base that on the string factor when separating and pulling slices out. If it strings then its fresh cheese - at least that's my belief. The cheese had a slight after taste that I've never experienced from any other pizza place. It wasn't distasteful - just odd.

The sauce had a very slight bite (as in spicy) to it. I was ok with that. Beyond that, nothing spectacular.

Cup and char pepperoni (C&C). My experience is whenever a restaurant offers C&C they also offer traditional pepperoni. I thought I heard on one of the marketing vids for sawgrass that Frenchy's was using C&C. When I ordered I asked if they have C&C. The Frenchy employee taking my order didn't know what cup and char pepperoni was.

The peps on my pizza were C&C. However, they were the thinnest thicknesses of C&C I've ever seen and they had next to no taste...possible due to their tissue paper thinness.

The sausage was mediocre....at best.

Our pizza was piping hot and cheesy and I was starving. I was satisfied with it - but there will be no Frenchy's in my future.

If I find myself in the southern area and wanted pizza - I'd go to Piesanos in Lake Deaton (10 minute car drive from sawgrass). As a qualifier - I haven't had a Piesanos pizza in over a year so I don't know the current quality.

[Skip]

Thanks for "THE FACTS", OP.
We too visited recently, not crowded but we asked dining patrons "How's the food?". Got all negative responses, so we did not order the outrageously priced meals, like the little Lobster Rolls and frozen Pizzas. Even the beers were $7 each.
Cash only and not giving change is outrageous. Even the environment was noisy in there.
I'm glad we have this forum sharing our experiences about businesses in The Villages ripping off customers.
We won't go back and glad we didn't spend a dime there.

Skip

[ThirdOfFive]

I'm going to go out on a limb - because I don't have a factual answer - but based on the taste and texture of the pizza I'm leaning towards it not being a pre-made frozen concoction.

Pizza review - here it is, my opinion. This was my first wood-fired pizza (and I've had lots from lots of different places) that had a soft bottom and the dough is more on the thin side then thick side. Same with leoparding - never had a wood-fired that didn't have a beautiful pattern of leoparding. It's very possible they pulled the pizza off the stone before it was done.

The very top of the crust had a few burn marks...way less then normal for a wood-fired pizza.

There was plenty of cheese and it seemed fresh - I base that on the string factor when separating and pulling slices out. If it strings then its fresh cheese - at least that's my belief. The cheese had a slight after taste that I've never experienced from any other pizza place. It wasn't distasteful - just odd.

The sauce had a very slight bite (as in spicy) to it. I was ok with that. Beyond that, nothing spectacular.

Cup and char pepperoni (C&C). My experience is whenever a restaurant offers C&C they also offer traditional pepperoni. I thought I heard on one of the marketing vids for sawgrass that Frenchy's was using C&C. When I ordered I asked if they have C&C. The Frenchy employee taking my order didn't know what cup and char pepperoni was.

The peps on my pizza were C&C. However, they were the thinnest thicknesses of C&C I've ever seen and they had next to no taste...possible due to their tissue paper thinness.

The sausage was mediocre....at best.

Our pizza was piping hot and cheesy and I was starving. I was satisfied with it - but there will be no Frenchy's in my future.

If I find myself in the southern area and wanted pizza - I'd go to Piesanos in Lake Deaton (10 minute car drive from sawgrass). As a qualifier - I haven't had a Piesanos pizza in over a year so I don't know the current quality.
Well, you know what they say about pizza.

A pizza is like sex. Even if it's bad, it's still pretty good.

[dewilson58]

Well, you know what they say about pizza.

A pizza is like sex. Even if it's bad, it's still pretty good.

barf

No and No.

[Laker14]

Well, I learned something today. I had never heard of "cup and char" pepperoni. I've been eating pepperoni pizzas for 60+ years, and I'd noticed that sometimes the pepperoni "cups" up, and "chars" on the edges, but I didn't know that it was by design, or that it had a name.
More embarrassing for me is to have lived in Western NY for 40+ years, and that it's credited as a Buffalo NY creation.
Now I know.

[Stu from NYC]

Well, you know what they say about pizza.

A pizza is like sex. Even if it's bad, it's still pretty good.

If you have had the privilege of eating good pizza you would not even think this.

[JRP2TV]

At Palmers Country Club, it will cost you an extra 3.75 percent to use a credit card. Probably not profitable there.

I won't go to any place that up charges me for using modern payment methods.

[JRP2TV]

Yeah, we feel the same way.

We have been at Sawgrass a few times and were not impressed. Even Goldwingnut, in his recent video, commented how noisy it was, and that was when there was no singer inside.

It did not seem to be a place where we would like to stop and have a drink or a snack after riding our bikes.

Anyway, we will keep on enjoying our life in TV and see if Sawgrass improves. If not, we know a lot of other places that we enjoy.

Once they finish building and opening the entertainment square (once they get past whatever issue has stopped them from proceeding installing the rest of the awnings), Sawgrass Grove will transform into a happening place. Until then, I'm sure the businesses inside are losing a fortune.

[JRP2TV]

Based on what the OP wrote think the pizza was third rate at best. Apparently they have not figured out the heating of the wood fired oven

We got a sausage pizza. Worst pizza ever. Mostly just a cheese pizza with just one tiny piece of sausage on each slice. Bad after taste. Just plain nasty.

Will stick with Piesano's. They have fantastic pizza and it is beyond loaded all the time.

[Skip]

I won't go to any place that up charges me for using modern payment methods.
There are MANY doing this now.
We've seen it in at least a half dozen recently.
The big problem is that it's a surprise additon on the bottom of the bill. No warning!
See the thread in Restaurant Discussions called Credit Card fee (https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/restaurant-discussions-90/credit-card-fee-334925/).
Skip

[Skip]

BTW - If you hate The Villages so much, why do you choose to live here? Serious question.

Never said "I hate The Villages". I don't like underhanded practices like this. I think most reading here feel the same way.
Skip

[Dotneko]

We live in St Cats. Ordered a take out pizza. By the time we got home (5 min golf cart ride), the pizza had welded itself to the box. No waxed paper to prevent that.
The pizza we scraped off wasnt very good. Piesanos is no better.
The best pizza we have found in the Villages is frozen California Pizza Crust pizza i reheat myself. A sad commentary on pizza quality here.
Flippers is OK, not make a special trip for though.

[Keefelane66]

Thanks for the reviews on Sawgrass just another place to avoid in The Villages on our return.

[Bogie Shooter]

Skip, while we did not like the pizza, I have to correct a flat out false statement you made, which you seem to make a lot of.

1) The pizzas are not frozen. A frozen pizza tastes way better than the crap they pump out there.

BTW - If you hate The Villages so much, why do you choose to live here? Serious question.

Serious answer.
Skip has been around a long time on TOTV. I have never seen a post of his that implied he hated The Villages.

[Stu from NYC]

We live in St Cats. Ordered a take out pizza. By the time we got home (5 min golf cart ride), the pizza had welded itself to the box. No waxed paper to prevent that.
The pizza we scraped off wasnt very good. Piesanos is no better.
The best pizza we have found in the Villages is frozen California Pizza Crust pizza i reheat myself. A sad commentary on pizza quality here.
Flippers is OK, not make a special trip for though.

We think Piesanos is pretty good, so is Sammy's and Napolinos for pizza.

Not as good as we used to get in NYC but still pretty good

[JSR22]

We are one and done with Sawgrass. Hamburgers served wrapped in paper and not on plates, lobster roll has mayonaise and celery which is lobster salad, pizza unappetizing and drinks served in plastic cups. We purchased 1 item at Villges Grown which can be purchased at Fresh Market or Publix. See no reason to return.

[Laker14]

I won't go to any place that up charges me for using modern payment methods.

I think it's the wave of the future. More and more retailers are getting fed up with the increasing transaction costs associated with accepting credit cards, which keep escalating because the card companies keep offering bigger rewards to the purchaser for using their particular card.
I think it's totally appropriate for the retailer to charge less to someone who purchases with a tender that does not come with a transaction fee.

I ran into it a few weeks ago at a restaurant in NY near where I live. Two days ago I went to a winery and handed cash, and the teller gave me a withering look. I said, "I'd be happy to use my card", and he said "that would be great". There was no uncharge for using the card. He was selling wine so fast that to slow down to make change would have cost him money I guess.

[thelegges]

We drive to Sammy’s for pizza, so far it’s better than any other place we have tried. But than again pizza is a regional taste

[JRP2TV]

Piesano's has the best pizza not only in Florida, but from the midwest to the Atlantic ocean. Pizza from up north can't touch it.

It's fantastic. I will stick with them. :coolsmiley:

[thelegges]

Piesano's has the best pizza not only in Florida, but from the midwest to the Atlantic ocean. Pizza from up north can't touch it.

It's fantastic. I will stick with them. :coolsmiley:

:popcorn::popcorn::popcorn:

[Stu from NYC]

Piesano's has the best pizza not only in Florida, but from the midwest to the Atlantic ocean. Pizza from up north can't touch it.

It's fantastic. I will stick with them. :coolsmiley:

Its good but have had better. Think if you ask 10 people for their favorite pizza place will get at least 11 opinions

[Skip]

Serious answer.
Skip has been around a long time on TOTV. I have never seen a post of his that implied he hated The Villages.

Thanks, Bogie.
Don't know where that came from.
Skip

[dewilson58]

Serious answer.
Skip has been around a long time on TOTV. I have never seen a post of his that implied he hated The Villages.

A newbie taking a negative shot at a staple.................probably a new sign-on from a not so newbie.

[Bilyclub]

Wow, 3 pages and the protectors of the Southland haven't attacked the OP yet.

:shocked: :shocked: :shocked:

[Laker14]

Wow, 3 pages and the protectors of the Southland haven't attacked the OP yet.

:shocked: :shocked: :shocked:

probably because it's not an attack on the "southland" as you put it. It's a critic of the commercial establishments at Sawgrass. Nothing in the OP disparaged the surrounding southern villages.

[Bilyclub]

probably because it's not an attack on the "southland" as you put it. It's a critic of the commercial establishments at Sawgrass. Nothing in the OP disparaged the surrounding southern villages.

I've seen other posts that are critical of something posters experienced down South, particularly at Sawgrass and the knifes came out in force.

[Graspher]

probably because it's not an attack on the "southland" as you put it. It's a critic of the commercial establishments at Sawgrass. Nothing in the OP disparaged the surrounding southern villages.

Exactly - thank you.

[P A Paul]

It’s been my experience that the people determine the success or failure of a business…please ‘em, thrive, disappoint ‘em, close….if they pay the slightest attention to feedback, as displayed here, there’s hope…if they remain arrogant and non sensitive, syanora.

[PoolBrews]

I found Piesano's to be OK. Not bad, not great, but OK. The best wood fired pizza I've had in central FL is at The Flying Boat Taphouse in Belleview. The best deep dish is at Legends in Leesburg. Ask for the meat sauce instead of the marinara - amazing!

Stavros is also very good - similar to Piesano's but better in my opinion. Crust is better and sauce has more flavor.

I stopped into McGrady's last week to have a beer after golf. Disappointing beer selection for an "Irish" pub, and the least expensive beer was $7 for a glass. Ridiculous for a Villages restaurant.

[tophcfa]

Wow, 3 pages and the protectors of the Southland haven't attacked the OP yet.

:shocked: :shocked: :shocked:

Probably because they have also been to Sawgrass and can’t find ample reason to disagree with the OP’s post?

[eyc234]

Once they finish building and opening the entertainment square (once they get past whatever issue has stopped them from proceeding installing the rest of the awnings), Sawgrass Grove will transform into a happening place. Until then, I'm sure the businesses inside are losing a fortune.


:1rotfl::1rotfl:

[Boston-Sean]

Disappointing beer selection for an "Irish" pub, and the least expensive beer was $7 for a glass. Ridiculous for a Villages restaurant.


Scottish.

[Dotneko]

Piesano's has the best pizza not only in Florida, but from the midwest to the Atlantic ocean. Pizza from up north can't touch it.

It's fantastic. I will stick with them. :coolsmiley:

Lol. We tried piesanos twice to be fair. Soggy crap both times. I even asked them to cook it longer.
Clearly you've never had Regina's in MA.

[Kelevision]

I found Piesano's to be OK. Not bad, not great, but OK. The best wood fired pizza I've had in central FL is at The Flying Boat Taphouse in Belleview. The best deep dish is at Legends in Leesburg. Ask for the meat sauce instead of the marinara - amazing!

Stavros is also very good - similar to Piesano's but better in my opinion. Crust is better and sauce has more flavor.

I stopped into McGrady's last week to have a beer after golf. Disappointing beer selection for an "Irish" pub, and the least expensive beer was $7 for a glass. Ridiculous for a Villages restaurant.

But I bet McGrady’s has a nice scotch list :)

[thelegges]

But I bet McGrady’s has a nice scotch list :)

Our friend born and raised in Scotland, said the list has most common fare that any restaurant could get. He was little surprised those that could be acquired were not available. But cost would detour most of the clientele from buying them, especially if $7 for a beer was outrageous for them

[Kelevision]

Our friend born and raised in Scotland, said the list has most common fare that any restaurant could get. He was little surprised those that could be acquired were not available. But cost would detour most of the clientele from buying them, especially if $7 for a beer was outrageous for them

It was based on the Jigger Inn in St Andrews Scotland. I enjoy it there but I’m not a beer (or scotch) drinker. I’m more into craft cocktails. And yes, I agree probably not a big demand for high end scotch here.

[Cmacnair@hotmail.com]

Sawgrass been there done that won’t be back. Place sucks.

[jonathanb]

Just a glorified overpriced food court

[Sandy and Ed]

I haven't used cash or coins in years. Using a card and paying it in full each month is much easier, cleaner and profitable with perks.
EXACTLY !!!!! AND the card will give you a detailed itemization of expenses. Cheapest accounts payable system I’ve seen. Unless you get a “cash only” establishments in which case you can always use your memory to recall where you spend your money

[vickersbond]

Excellent review. Totally agree - just the facts!!

[Sandy and Ed]

We think Piesanos is pretty good, so is Sammy's and Napolinos for pizza.

Not as good as we used to get in NYC but still pretty good
Roberto’s for us. Next to Subway In Winn Dixie shopping center on 466A. Keeping our fingers crossed that they won’t go over to the dark side. Owner is very pleasant young man. If you have not had their pizza try them. This from a Brooklyn NY native

[Bill14564]

Roberto’s for us. Next to Subway In Winn Dixie shopping center on 466A. Keeping our fingers crossed that they won’t go over to the dark side. Owner is very pleasant young man. If you have not had their pizza try them. This from a Brooklyn NY native

I'll second that! Good pizza and good people.

[Stu from NYC]

Roberto’s for us. Next to Subway In Winn Dixie shopping center on 466A. Keeping our fingers crossed that they won’t go over to the dark side. Owner is very pleasant young man. If you have not had their pizza try them. This from a Brooklyn NY native

Been there once for something other than pizza and food was ok. We have found a number of other Italian places we like and just never gone back.

[seecapecod]

Our first visit was Sunday 9/11 - arrived 12:05 p.m. About 50 people milling around - 20 surrounding the bar area - 4 tables were occupied.

Chose Frenchy's for a wood-fired pizza - 4 employees working the pizza production.

"I'd like a medium pepperoni and sausage pizza".

"We only make one size and it's 12 inches. You can't order a pepperoni and sausage pizza. You can only order a pizza as described on our menu - but we can add and subtract toppings."

Their menu details 5 or 6 pizza combinations (each selectable pizza has several toppings on it). One of their selections includes sausage plus other toppings and another of their selections features pepperoni plus other toppings.

We chose their "sausage" pizza - deleted the onions - deleted the roasted green peppers...and added pepperoni.

The sausage combo pizza is priced at $15.00. No monetary deduction for eliminating the onions or peppers. There was an upcharge of $3.00 for the pepperoni. Total including a tax of $1.36 was $19.36.

I handed over $20 in cash. The receipt showed Total Due 19.36 / pymt cash 20.00 / Change Due .64. The cash register knows change is due - but Frenchy's policy is - they don't give coin change. They have a sign that says no coin provided but it is not located near the register.

Our pizza order was placed at 12:13pm (per the receipt). Our boxed pizza was presented to us at 12:48pm. Paper plates were not offered - but were provided upon request. The paper plates were....more paper then anything else. Very flimsy and couldn't support the weight of a small slice of pizza with just two toppings on it.

Frenchy's uses a wood-fired oven. The bottom of the crust was not crispy and was absent any degree of visible leoparding.

Darlin's Sweet Shoppe will not accept cash - only cards.

At least one other establishment (possibly 2) have signs posted indicating they will not provide any coin type change.

The majority of seating in the market area consists of flat steel or solid wood seat bottoms.

Them the facts and nothing but the facts...

Disappointing at best.

[mydavid]

I haven't been there, don't plan on going, maybe I'll go to a Bowling Alley for a nice quite dinner.

[Catalina36]

I agree, the American Express Blue Card is the best and Chase Amazon card is another

[ThirdOfFive]

It’s been my experience that the people determine the success or failure of a business…please ‘em, thrive, disappoint ‘em, close….if they pay the slightest attention to feedback, as displayed here, there’s hope…if they remain arrogant and non sensitive, syanora.
True.

And they do. I've told several service vendors that they've gotten favorable reviews in these pages and their reply was that they read TOTV all the time.

We're 140,000 (give or take) strong, people. That is a LOT of business.

[ThirdOfFive]

I found Piesano's to be OK. Not bad, not great, but OK. The best wood fired pizza I've had in central FL is at The Flying Boat Taphouse in Belleview. The best deep dish is at Legends in Leesburg. Ask for the meat sauce instead of the marinara - amazing!

Stavros is also very good - similar to Piesano's but better in my opinion. Crust is better and sauce has more flavor.

I stopped into McGrady's last week to have a beer after golf. Disappointing beer selection for an "Irish" pub, and the least expensive beer was $7 for a glass. Ridiculous for a Villages restaurant.
Any place around here where you can get Sam Adams Boston Lager on tap?

[fdpaq0580]

I handed over $20 in cash. The receipt showed Total Due 19.36 / pymt cash 20.00 / Change Due .64. The cash register knows change is due - but Frenchy's policy is - they don't give coin change. They have a sign that says no coin provided but it is not located near the register.



Them the facts and nothing but the facts...

So, they owe you 64 cents change. Did they round down for their convenience of not having to handle coins, or did they just rob you of 64 cents and try to justify their thieving?

[valuemkt]

After all the hype it certainly appears the Villages missed the mark on Sawgrass. As reported, the Pizza, Burger, Seafood and Butcher shop are all owned by the same company. Not sure who owns the bar. Giving a monopoly to what sounded like an interesting concept certainly leads to either a win win or lose lose situation. If one fails, they will probably all fail. A pizza place in a food court that only serves whole pizzas vs by the slice is ridiculous. Just a brief mention of the steel chairs. Even though the average villager might carry some extra padding, those seats are horribly uncomfortable and certainly don;t give a welcome and stay with us a while feel. Sawgrass was a great concept with absolutely horrible implementation.

[srswans]

But I bet McGrady’s has a nice scotch list :)

They do! Flights even.

[thelegges]

My guess is no one business reads TOTV, unless they are a sponsor, just as people who work for the developer. Why the positive may not outweigh the negative, and less than 50 different people will post their thoughts. Hardly any percentage that would or could break a business.

TV is a melting pot of residence’s, I love Detroit Pizza Crust, and coney dogs. If you didn’t grow up in my region then definitely will not be on your list.

Like any business owner, the bottom line and what is selling or not, tells them how they are fairing. There will be an uptick of clientele when the deck, and stage is finished. $7 beer or not people will buy, just like at any venue in TV

[brockli]

Our first visit was Sunday 9/11 - arrived 12:05 p.m. About 50 people milling around - 20 surrounding the bar area - 4 tables were occupied.

Chose Frenchy's for a wood-fired pizza - 4 employees working the pizza production.

"I'd like a medium pepperoni and sausage pizza".

"We only make one size and it's 12 inches. You can't order a pepperoni and sausage pizza. You can only order a pizza as described on our menu - but we can add and subtract toppings."

Their menu details 5 or 6 pizza combinations (each selectable pizza has several toppings on it). One of their selections includes sausage plus other toppings and another of their selections features pepperoni plus other toppings.

We chose their "sausage" pizza - deleted the onions - deleted the roasted green peppers...and added pepperoni.

The sausage combo pizza is priced at $15.00. No monetary deduction for eliminating the onions or peppers. There was an upcharge of $3.00 for the pepperoni. Total including a tax of $1.36 was $19.36.

I handed over $20 in cash. The receipt showed Total Due 19.36 / pymt cash 20.00 / Change Due .64. The cash register knows change is due - but Frenchy's policy is - they don't give coin change. They have a sign that says no coin provided but it is not located near the register.

Our pizza order was placed at 12:13pm (per the receipt). Our boxed pizza was presented to us at 12:48pm. Paper plates were not offered - but were provided upon request. The paper plates were....more paper then anything else. Very flimsy and couldn't support the weight of a small slice of pizza with just two toppings on it.

Frenchy's uses a wood-fired oven. The bottom of the crust was not crispy and was absent any degree of visible leoparding.

Darlin's Sweet Shoppe will not accept cash - only cards.

At least one other establishment (possibly 2) have signs posted indicating they will not provide any coin type change.

The majority of seating in the market area consists of flat steel or solid wood seat bottoms.

Them the facts and nothing but the facts...

Thanks for the info. I was there once and was not impressed.

[srswans]

30 minutes for the pizza? Not my experience. I’ve ordered pizza on three occasions (two pies each time) and have had it ready in 10 minutes or less.

[WingedFoot78]

It seems like Sawgrass Grove is a place to skip.......noisy, food quality, etc. I want to try Roberto's and Piesano's for pizza.

[fastboat]

Yea, Johnny Walker Blue, $60+ a shot.

[Laker14]

I've seen other posts that are critical of something posters experienced down South, particularly at Sawgrass and the knifes came out in force.

Actually, I revisited a thread about mosquitos and other issues with a visit to Southern Oaks, and it wasn't until a poster, not the OP, felt it was required to add a comment about how bad it was "down south", with the obligatory references to turnpike noise, and a judgement about people's decisions to buy down there, that the defenders of the newer villages came out.

[fastboat]

They do! Flights even.

Johnny Walker Blue $60+ a shot. Give me a break!

[richs631]

What needs to happen is that every villager needs to boycott every village establishment for one week. Eat outside the villages for one week and demand your changes. I mean give me a break, no change. Don’t get me wrong, it’s not the few coins it’s just some terrible attitudes from store owners. It will only get worse

[bowlingal]

JRP...not necessarily especially if your card gets hacked. CASH for me....always. That way , I can sleep at night

[Dsmdlm]

Best pizza in the Villages hands down - Roberto’s!!!!
My first impression of Sawgrass was also the “food court” atmosphere but I am hopeful they will work out the kinks as they finish up the venue.

[geobar]

Have not nor will be there as we moved out of the villages over 2 years ago seeing the changes and omissions that brought us to the villages in 2009 being taken away.
.
Do not care for as to how the now 3rd generation now as "The Morse Money Hungry Moguls" have taken over and only build to line their pockets.
.
Still cannot imagine it took about 4 plus years for them to build a shopping center south of CR-44 for how many thousands of people to shop for food in a Publix and forget the other stores needed to live.
.
These people need to drive north of CR-44 for the shopping and to infringe on those restaurants as well.
.
Still no Town Square like the 3 that are present. Doubtful another will ever be built.
.
Wish all the new purchases South of CR-44 well. Look at the number of resales there MIGHT OPEN YOUR EYES before you buy or even after you have.
.
Shameful just how little of the important things a new purchaser needs to know the village salespeople are allowed to tell you. This is why they got rid of MLS many years ago to have total control so they thought.



Our first visit was Sunday 9/11 - arrived 12:05 p.m. About 50 people milling around - 20 surrounding the bar area - 4 tables were occupied.

Chose Frenchy's for a wood-fired pizza - 4 employees working the pizza production.

"I'd like a medium pepperoni and sausage pizza".

"We only make one size and it's 12 inches. You can't order a pepperoni and sausage pizza. You can only order a pizza as described on our menu - but we can add and subtract toppings."

Their menu details 5 or 6 pizza combinations (each selectable pizza has several toppings on it). One of their selections includes sausage plus other toppings and another of their selections features pepperoni plus other toppings.

We chose their "sausage" pizza - deleted the onions - deleted the roasted green peppers...and added pepperoni.

The sausage combo pizza is priced at $15.00. No monetary deduction for eliminating the onions or peppers. There was an upcharge of $3.00 for the pepperoni. Total including a tax of $1.36 was $19.36.

I handed over $20 in cash. The receipt showed Total Due 19.36 / pymt cash 20.00 / Change Due .64. The cash register knows change is due - but Frenchy's policy is - they don't give coin change. They have a sign that says no coin provided but it is not located near the register.

Our pizza order was placed at 12:13pm (per the receipt). Our boxed pizza was presented to us at 12:48pm. Paper plates were not offered - but were provided upon request. The paper plates were....more paper then anything else. Very flimsy and couldn't support the weight of a small slice of pizza with just two toppings on it.

Frenchy's uses a wood-fired oven. The bottom of the crust was not crispy and was absent any degree of visible leoparding.

Darlin's Sweet Shoppe will not accept cash - only cards.

At least one other establishment (possibly 2) have signs posted indicating they will not provide any coin type change.

The majority of seating in the market area consists of flat steel or solid wood seat bottoms.

Them the facts and nothing but the facts...

[Axemansa]

I actually live close to Sawgrass and have mixed feelings about the marketplace. The noise is, as others described, loud when there are numerous people inside. The prices are higher than I like but I vote with my wallet and choose other more reasonably priced places. I do think this will change once the complete Sawgrass venue is open. I will add that I have not had a bad meal at McGradys and the bar staff is very friendly. $7 beers are becoming the norm everywhere. I just attended a AAA ballgame in Virginia and paid $10.50! Needless to say, you are paying for the experience.

[Veracity]

After the restaurants in Sawgrass go out of business, the people who own the country club restaurants, and/or the people who own Blue Fin/Chophouse/Scooples, will swoop in and fix the mess. At least that is what seems to be happening to every other bad restaurant in The Villages.

[Rodneysblue]

Our first visit was Sunday 9/11 - arrived 12:05 p.m. About 50 people milling around - 20 surrounding the bar area - 4 tables were occupied.

Chose Frenchy's for a wood-fired pizza - 4 employees working the pizza production.

"I'd like a medium pepperoni and sausage pizza".

"We only make one size and it's 12 inches. You can't order a pepperoni and sausage pizza. You can only order a pizza as described on our menu - but we can add and subtract toppings."

Their menu details 5 or 6 pizza combinations (each selectable pizza has several toppings on it). One of their selections includes sausage plus other toppings and another of their selections features pepperoni plus other toppings.

We chose their "sausage" pizza - deleted the onions - deleted the roasted green peppers...and added pepperoni.

The sausage combo pizza is priced at $15.00. No monetary deduction for eliminating the onions or peppers. There was an upcharge of $3.00 for the pepperoni. Total including a tax of $1.36 was $19.36.

I handed over $20 in cash. The receipt showed Total Due 19.36 / pymt cash 20.00 / Change Due .64. The cash register knows change is due - but Frenchy's policy is - they don't give coin change. They have a sign that says no coin provided but it is not located near the register.

Our pizza order was placed at 12:13pm (per the receipt). Our boxed pizza was presented to us at 12:48pm. Paper plates were not offered - but were provided upon request. The paper plates were....more paper then anything else. Very flimsy and couldn't support the weight of a small slice of pizza with just two toppings on it.

Frenchy's uses a wood-fired oven. The bottom of the crust was not crispy and was absent any degree of visible leoparding.

Darlin's Sweet Shoppe will not accept cash - only cards.

At least one other establishment (possibly 2) have signs posted indicating they will not provide any coin type change.

The majority of seating in the market area consists of flat steel or solid wood seat bottoms.

Them the facts and nothing but the facts...

$20 for a 12” pizza, no thanks. Oh but wait you’re paying for the atmosphere.

[dewilson58]

30 minutes for the pizza? Not my experience. I’ve ordered pizza on three occasions (two pies each time) and have had it ready in 10 minutes or less.

& the taste???

[Dendrn]

Visited coffee shop that was to have New York bagels. They only offer three different bagels. We ordered two, one added cream cheese and two plain coffee. Total $17, the worst bagels I've eaten in my life. Dry as cardboard and no taste. Coffee OK but never again. Couldn't even finish bagel. VERY DISAPPOINTED.

[jaygardens]

well thank you for teaching me about leoparding and for this review

we are truly spoiled here in TV because almost everything is "done" so well and
i find it hard to find anything to complain about.

word of mouth is the best - and worst - advertising a business can get so let's
hope that 'they' see the light and make improvements

[retiredguy123]

Johnny Walker Blue $60+ a shot. Give me a break!
I don't know anything about whiskey, but I had to do the math.

You can buy a 750 ml bottle of Johnny Walker Blue Label at Total Wine for $230, which will yield about 17, 1.5 ounce shots.

17 shots x $60 = $1,020
$1,020 - $230 = $790 gross profit

[Bogie Shooter]

I've seen other posts that are critical of something posters experienced down South, particularly at Sawgrass and the knifes came out in force.

Pot stirring?

[Keefelane66]

I actually live close to Sawgrass and have mixed feelings about the marketplace. The noise is, as others described, loud when there are numerous people inside. The prices are higher than I like but I vote with my wallet and choose other more reasonably priced places. I do think this will change once the complete Sawgrass venue is open. I will add that I have not had a bad meal at McGradys and the bar staff is very friendly. $7 beers are becoming the norm everywhere. I just attended a AAA ballgame in Virginia and paid $10.50! Needless to say, you are paying for the experience.
All I can say is whether it be paying $7 or $10.50 for a beer I have willpower to say NO!

[midiwiz]

Our first visit was Sunday 9/11 - arrived 12:05 p.m. About 50 people milling around - 20 surrounding the bar area - 4 tables were occupied.

Chose Frenchy's for a wood-fired pizza - 4 employees working the pizza production.

"I'd like a medium pepperoni and sausage pizza".

"We only make one size and it's 12 inches. You can't order a pepperoni and sausage pizza. You can only order a pizza as described on our menu - but we can add and subtract toppings."

Their menu details 5 or 6 pizza combinations (each selectable pizza has several toppings on it). One of their selections includes sausage plus other toppings and another of their selections features pepperoni plus other toppings.

We chose their "sausage" pizza - deleted the onions - deleted the roasted green peppers...and added pepperoni.

The sausage combo pizza is priced at $15.00. No monetary deduction for eliminating the onions or peppers. There was an upcharge of $3.00 for the pepperoni. Total including a tax of $1.36 was $19.36.

I handed over $20 in cash. The receipt showed Total Due 19.36 / pymt cash 20.00 / Change Due .64. The cash register knows change is due - but Frenchy's policy is - they don't give coin change. They have a sign that says no coin provided but it is not located near the register.

Our pizza order was placed at 12:13pm (per the receipt). Our boxed pizza was presented to us at 12:48pm. Paper plates were not offered - but were provided upon request. The paper plates were....more paper then anything else. Very flimsy and couldn't support the weight of a small slice of pizza with just two toppings on it.

Frenchy's uses a wood-fired oven. The bottom of the crust was not crispy and was absent any degree of visible leoparding.

Darlin's Sweet Shoppe will not accept cash - only cards.

At least one other establishment (possibly 2) have signs posted indicating they will not provide any coin type change.

The majority of seating in the market area consists of flat steel or solid wood seat bottoms.

Them the facts and nothing but the facts...

good facts, and our facts also line up pretty much spot on except for pizza type ordered. We also found the fish place (forgot the name) next to the burger place is highly over priced. actually the entire market is. Everything from the villages repackaged "fresh market" to the bar. The entire experience lacks in so many ways. I highly doubt we will ever bother with the facility again. Underwhelming and repackaged items aren't our thing. Not a fan.

[PugMom]

Lol. We tried piesanos twice to be fair. Soggy crap both times. I even asked them to cook it longer.
Clearly you've never had Regina's in MA.

or RedRose where you get to watch everything going on in the kitchen. excellent food. piesanos used to be better in the early days. it was close to bertucci's, but they must've changed either leadership or recipes-everything is spicy now, with added salt. it used to be our go to place until i discovered Gio's off 466. it's like 'grandma's pizza', & lovely ambiance. is in the same plaza off the road near a veterinarian's office

[rschwan9]

Tragi-comedy. An apt description.

The pizzas must be pre-made, frozen. They can pick the onions off for you, but they still had to buy them, so you still gotta pay for them.

To the OP, was the pizza tasty? How was the crust, other than not being crispy? I'm pretty fussy about my pies, and I don't think I'd bother ordering one there, based upon your review.

Pizza recommendations? Please.

[PugMom]

Yeah, we feel the same way.

We have been at Sawgrass a few times and were not impressed. Even Goldwingnut, in his recent video, commented how noisy it was, and that was when there was no singer inside.

It did not seem to be a place where we would like to stop and have a drink or a snack after riding our bikes.

Anyway, we will keep on enjoying our life in TV and see if Sawgrass improves. If not, we know a lot of other places that we enjoy.

yeah, the entrance is a walkway with construction fences, lined with hanging pots. idk if i was going the right way, lol. also yes on the noise level. but everyone inside looked so HAPPY to be there, it was kind of nice watching them enjoy themselves. i didn't order food, it wasn't to appealing, imo, just had a soda & walked around

[PoolBrews]

Scottish.

OK, it's Scottish, not Irish. Every Scottish or Irish pub I've ever been to has a nice selection of Scottish, Irish, and English ales.

Here's their current beer list:

Guinness, Yuengling, Michelob Ultra, Sam Adams Seasonal, Cigar City Brewing Margarita Gose, Sweetwater Hazy IPA, Islamorada Sandbar Sunday, Crooked Can High Stepper, Swamp Head Brewery Stump Knocker

Not a single Scottish beer, and only one Irish beer (that I can get anywhere). I admit it, I'm a beer snob (and a brewer as well), but I found the list disappointing. Beers ranged from $7 to $8. I can get any of these beers elsewhere for $2 to $6, so not a good deal at all.

[Laker]

We will be returning to our home in St. Catherine next month (no, we do not live in "St. Cat") having been away since May. Almost all of the reviews of Sawgrass here have been negative, with many people saying they will never go back. Although disappointed that it doesn't appear we will be happy with it short-term, like any business it will have to improve, or disappear, with a better operator coming in.
But the upside of the "never go back" attitude is that we will never have to stand in line behind you when things get better.

[UpNorth]

Pizza recommendations? Please.

Learn how to make your own. Pizza dough is not difficult to make if you do it right. Bake the dough first, before you put on toppings, and you will never have to deal with a soggy crust. Easy to put the toppings you want on, then back into the oven at 450 degrees. You may never get a take out pizza again.

[PugMom]

OK, it's Scottish, not Irish. Every Scottish or Irish pub I've ever been to has a nice selection of Scottish, Irish, and English ales.

Here's their current beer list:

Guinness, Yuengling, Michelob Ultra, Sam Adams Seasonal, Cigar City Brewing Margarita Gose, Sweetwater Hazy IPA, Islamorada Sandbar Sunday, Crooked Can High Stepper, Swamp Head Brewery Stump Knocker

Not a single Scottish beer, and only one Irish beer (that I can get anywhere). I admit it, I'm a beer snob (and a brewer as well), but I found the list disappointing. Beers ranged from $7 to $8. I can get any of these beers elsewhere for $2 to $6, so not a good deal at all.

but no Bass Ale! i'd pay a higher price if i could just find it. so far i've only seen it in that liquor warehouse type business on 441, can't remember the name. any other place is hit or miss whether they carry it @ all. hubby's family was from Burton-on-Trent, so Bass was a staple in the home. is also darn good & hearty

[Jacob85]

I think maybe that change they are keeping could be the tip or at least part of it depending on how much you want to give.

[Joeint]

The good news is the Southern Oaks Pro Shop and logo shirts for $109...

[HawkinsGuy]

I don't know anything about whiskey, but I had to do the math.

You can buy a 750 ml bottle of Johnny Walker Blue Label at Total Wine for $230, which will yield about 17, 1.5 ounce shots.

17 shots x $60 = $1,020
$1,020 - $230 = $790 gross profit

All business owners wish it were as simple as that calculation. From that $790 you need to deduct the the direct labor costs (which unfortunately have been very high to attract labor from a shrinking pool), percentage of overhead costs (including rent, utilities, insurance, maintenance, taxes, etc), percentage of fringe benefits (health, life, 401k, if any of these apply), and percentage of general and administrative costs like business management, hostess, etc. There is always a higher profit margin in alcohol sales, but the profit surely ain't $790 per bottle of whiskey. And, I'm certainly not suggesting $60 for a shot of whiskey is reasonable. I wouldn't pay that no way, no how. Precisely why I don't drink :)

[PilotGuy9853]

I was there about a month ago and ate at a couple places (pizza and burger joints) and the bar and don't remember this policy. I do remember everything was crazy expensive. I paid $21 for a burger, fries and small drink. The pizza was expensive too but I don't remember how much. We paid $14.00 for 2 cans of domestic beer at the center bar. As long as the prices stay like that we won't visit very often. Other than the prices it seemed like a nice place.

[capecoralbill]

After all the hype it certainly appears the Villages missed the mark on Sawgrass. Sawgrass was a great concept with absolutely horrible implementation.

We went there Sunday on 9/11. I agree the implementation is horrible. It seems like the vendors / restauranteurs believe that they are located in Boca Raton, this is the villages. Please do not charge us Boca prices, this is not Boca.

[tophcfa]

but no Bass Ale! i'd pay a higher price if i could just find it. so far i've only seen it in that liquor warehouse type business on 441, can't remember the name. any other place is hit or miss whether they carry it @ all. hubby's family was from Burton-on-Trent, so Bass was a staple in the home. is also darn good & hearty

Love Bass Ale, always been my go to. They were way ahead of their time, been brewing the delicious Ale for over 150 years. All of these Johnny come lately microbreweries, making all those bitter hop laced beers with stupid names, can’t hold a candle to a Bass. Just tell the bartender, give me a big ass glass of Bass : )

[Fltpkr]

Not an avid beer drinker, but just curious. What is a Scottish beer and how does taste differ from others that are available? Not looking for a debate - just interested. Thanks.

[tophcfa]

Not an avid beer drinker, but just curious. What is a Scottish beer and how does taste differ from others that are available? Not looking for a debate - just interested. Thanks.

Pick yourself up a bottle of McEwans Scottish Ale. Dark, thick, malty, with a hint of toffee and caramel, and 8% alcohol by volume. It’s a great sipping beer.

[dewilson58]

The good news is the Southern Oaks Pro Shop and logo shirts for $109...

:1rotfl::1rotfl:

[Bill14564]

Love Bass Ale, always been my go to. They were way ahead of their time, been brewing the delicious Ale for over 150 years. All of these Johnny come lately microbreweries, making all those bitter hop laced beers with stupid names, can’t hold a candle to a Bass. Just tell the bartender, give me a big ass glass of Bass : )

I've heard the same thing from those who drink Iron City, Natty Boh, Pabst Blue Ribbon, Miller Lite, Coors, etc..... (though Bass is much better than all of those)

Try some of those "Johnny come lately" microbrews, you might like them. Not all of them are bitter, that phase has passed. Sours are on the rise now and hopefully wheat beers will have a resurgence of popularity in the near future.

[mikeycereal]

As far as pizza goes I've been pretty spoiled over the last 3 years where I used to live. We had a mom & pop nearby called Lucino's, owner from Italy who was a top chef somewhere. Crust cooked just right, soft with a slight crunch on the edges. Tasted almost like French bread and not salty like Pizza Hut. Tomato sauce tasted real, with a slightly sweet edge. The toppings were awesome; sausage/meat was shaved, pepperoni added after pie removed from oven so no pool of oil. Cheese was great. Used fresh mushrooms. The meat lovers was the best I ever had. They even did a Philly cheese pizza with shaved steak. Loved that place. Hopefully find something nearly as good here. Gotta have pizza at least once a month.

[Laker14]

The good news is the Southern Oaks Pro Shop and logo shirts for $109...

Get 'em while they last!!

[Bill14564]

Not an avid beer drinker, but just curious. What is a Scottish beer and how does taste differ from others that are available? Not looking for a debate - just interested. Thanks.

Different countries or areas have different styles with different flavors. Most Canadian, British, Irish, Scottish, German, and even Italian beers have distinct flavors. The US used to be that way too though with the explosion of microbreweries this has changed.

A Scottish restaurant with a nice selection of microbrews and American lagers but without a Scottish beer is something like a Mexican restaurant that only serves spaghetti and gyros.

[tophcfa]

The good news is the Southern Oaks Pro Shop and logo shirts for $109...

Be careful not to get any of the horrible overpriced pizza sauce on that new $109 shirt, the horror of it all!

[TerryCamlin]

I haven't used cash or coins in years. Using a card and paying it in full each month is much easier, cleaner and profitable with perks.

Those perks are getting negated by restaurants starting to charge you for using your CC. People have been complaining about Arnold Palmer they add a 3.75% surcharge if you use your card. I for one was not impressed by Saw Grass at all. I think they know they have a captive audience since you folks don't have many choices down South of 44.

Regarding the entire complex offering food we asked the General Contractor why he did not add a sanitation station to wash your hands. He said that is what rest rooms are for. Really??

[Laker14]

It will be interesting to see how this place does, over time. With the large number of people who constitute their market, they don't need to make everyone happy. They just need to make enough people happy to get a flow of customers willing to pay what they charge, for the services and goods they provide.

This was obviously someone's vision for an exciting, attractive venue. I will definitely check it out when I return in October, but not sure I'll bother with any of the food. To me, it sounds like someone took the current model for airport shops and restaurants and thought it would make a great concept for The Villages.

Personally, I hate airports, and I hate paying twice what I would normally expect to pay for fast food, just because I am a captive in an airport, so I don't see the appeal of duplicating that unpleasant experience voluntarily. However, there are a lot of people in TV, and I wouldn't be surprised if many of them enjoy things I don't. Different strokes, and all of that.

[BostonRich]

Any place around here where you can get Sam Adams Boston Lager on tap?

I believe the Lighthouse has Sam on draft. I also got it a while ago someplace else but can't recall exactly where. Might have been Oakwood. I was surprised to see it so ordered immediately. But menus have been pretty fluid lately due to supply issues do I guess you may need to call first. Octoberfest time too! Enjoy.

[rickaslin]

I love The Viilages but I don't agree with this concept. Country Club pricing but mall food court quality. Small portions served on paper with plastic utensils. I do like the produce store. Southern Oaks golf is charging a premium price for a course that needs a couple of years to grow.

Still love it here.

[mgkw1]

Have you tried New York Pizza ? Up near Walmart

[JSR22]

Have you tried New York Pizza ? Up near Walmart

Unfortunately yes.

[dewilson58]

I love The Viilages but I don't agree with this concept. Country Club pricing but mall food court quality. Small portions served on paper with plastic utensils.

Which CC??

[Graspher]

Probably because they have also been to Sawgrass and can’t find ample reason to disagree with the OP’s post?

:bigbow:

[Graspher]

Excellent review. Totally agree - just the facts!!

Thank you....thank you very much.

[Kelevision]

After all the hype it certainly appears the Villages missed the mark on Sawgrass. As reported, the Pizza, Burger, Seafood and Butcher shop are all owned by the same company. Not sure who owns the bar. Giving a monopoly to what sounded like an interesting concept certainly leads to either a win win or lose lose situation. If one fails, they will probably all fail. A pizza place in a food court that only serves whole pizzas vs by the slice is ridiculous. Just a brief mention of the steel chairs. Even though the average villager might carry some extra padding, those seats are horribly uncomfortable and certainly don;t give a welcome and stay with us a while feel. Sawgrass was a great concept with absolutely horrible implementation.
The Villages run McGrady’s, The Sawgrass Bar and the soon to come entertainment. The restaurants inside sawgrass are rented out. The villages also runs Fenney Grill, which I really like and a couple more places.

[Graspher]

So, they owe you 64 cents change. Did they round down for their convenience of not having to handle coins, or did they just rob you of 64 cents and try to justify their thieving?

Excellent take-away. I bet the rounding down would neutralize the no coin change provided concept. This would slightly favor the customer and remove the heat from their policy. And I bet not really result in any real loss to the establishment.

The Frenchy's employee announced the amount due - I passed over $20 and was expecting a return of change.

Frenchy's employee placed my cash in the drawer and closed it without missing a beat. Never said anything about their NO coin change provided policy.

I didn't bother saying anything cause I wasn't going to sweat the .64. My initial thought was he forgot to provide the change...followed by he made a decision to auto-tip himself.

It wasn't until I returned to retrieve the pizza that I saw the no change sign on the counter way opposite of the register.

I'm going with robbery.

[Graspher]

well thank you for teaching me about leoparding and for this review

My pleasure.

[fdpaq0580]

Excellent take-away. I bet the rounding down would neutralize the no coin change provided concept. This would slightly favor the customer and remove the heat from their policy. And I bet not really result in any real loss to the establishment.

The Frenchy's employee announced the amount due - I passed over $20 and was expecting a return of change.

Frenchy's employee placed my cash in the drawer and closed it without missing a beat. Never said anything about their NO coin change provided policy.

I didn't bother saying anything cause I wasn't going to sweat the .64. My initial thought was he forgot to provide the change...followed by he made a decision to auto-tip himself.

It wasn't until I returned to retrieve the pizza that I saw the no change sign on the counter way opposite of the register.

I'm going with robbery.

Sorry you were so nice. Most folks would do as you did and not make a fuss over a measly 64 cents. I am not most people. I would have called them out and explained to the management in front of the waiting customers why what they are doing is theft. There is a principle here and is shining a spotlight on a lack of honesty and integrity.

[JSR22]

Sorry you were so nice. Most folks would do as you did and not make a fuss over a measly 64 cents. I am not most people. I would have called them out and explained to the management in front of the waiting customers why what they are doing is theft. There is a principle here and is shining a spotlight on a lack of honesty and integrity.

I absolutely would not make a fuss over 64 cents. I never sweat the small stuff.

[Annie66]

Our first visit was Sunday 9/11 - arrived 12:05 p.m. About 50 people milling around - 20 surrounding the bar area - 4 tables were occupied.

Chose Frenchy's for a wood-fired pizza - 4 employees working the pizza production.

"I'd like a medium pepperoni and sausage pizza".

"We only make one size and it's 12 inches. You can't order a pepperoni and sausage pizza. You can only order a pizza as described on our menu - but we can add and subtract toppings."

Their menu details 5 or 6 pizza combinations (each selectable pizza has several toppings on it). One of their selections includes sausage plus other toppings and another of their selections features pepperoni plus other toppings.

We chose their "sausage" pizza - deleted the onions - deleted the roasted green peppers...and added pepperoni.

The sausage combo pizza is priced at $15.00. No monetary deduction for eliminating the onions or peppers. There was an upcharge of $3.00 for the pepperoni. Total including a tax of $1.36 was $19.36.

I handed over $20 in cash. The receipt showed Total Due 19.36 / pymt cash 20.00 / Change Due .64. The cash register knows change is due - but Frenchy's policy is - they don't give coin change. They have a sign that says no coin provided but it is not located near the register.

Our pizza order was placed at 12:13pm (per the receipt). Our boxed pizza was presented to us at 12:48pm. Paper plates were not offered - but were provided upon request. The paper plates were....more paper then anything else. Very flimsy and couldn't support the weight of a small slice of pizza with just two toppings on it.

Frenchy's uses a wood-fired oven. The bottom of the crust was not crispy and was absent any degree of visible leoparding.

Darlin's Sweet Shoppe will not accept cash - only cards.

At least one other establishment (possibly 2) have signs posted indicating they will not provide any coin type change.

The majority of seating in the market area consists of flat steel or solid wood seat bottoms.

Them the facts and nothing but the facts...

Thanks Joe Friday.

[Annie66]

Well, I learned something today. I had never heard of "cup and char" pepperoni. I've been eating pepperoni pizzas for 60+ years, and I'd noticed that sometimes the pepperoni "cups" up, and "chars" on the edges, but I didn't know that it was by design, or that it had a name.
More embarrassing for me is to have lived in Western NY for 40+ years, and that it's credited as a Buffalo NY creation.
Now I know.

It sure is ..... as a kid, I used to get C&C pepperoni at Bocce's Pizza.

[Keefelane66]

Sorry you were so nice. Most folks would do as you did and not make a fuss over a measly 64 cents. I am not most people. I would have called them out and explained to the management in front of the waiting customers why what they are doing is theft. There is a principle here and is shining a spotlight on a lack of honesty and integrity.
I agree a fool and his money is easily parted. It’s not just $.64 is possibly x’s 100 fools a day x’s 7 days a week maybe picking up an extra $450 a week. Could care less if the business fails they won't be seeing my money.

[jojo]

I agree that the cheese and sauce were good. I did not like the pepperoni which is exactly as you described.

[jojo]

I agree that the cheese and sauce were good. Did not like the pepperoni which was exactly as you described. Seats were uncomfortable. Guess that makes for quicker turnover.

[Annie66]

Which CC??

Suleimans own Havana, Legacy, Glenview and now the Angus Grill.

[Keefelane66]

The good news is the Southern Oaks Pro Shop and logo shirts for $109...
I don't buy logo apparel clothing. it's maybe a $40 shirt from Bealls with a embroidered $69 logo.

[Indydealmaker]

Yea, Johnny Walker Blue, $60+ a shot.

Reasonable.

[dewilson58]

I don't buy logo apparel clothing. it's maybe a $40 shirt from Bealls with a embroidered $69 logo.

It was sarcasm Sheldon.

[JSR22]

Suleimans own Havana, Legacy, Glenview and now the Angus Grill.

Angler's Club and David does not own Glenview. His brother has Glenview and Red Sauce.

[Indydealmaker]

I don't know anything about whiskey, but I had to do the math.

You can buy a 750 ml bottle of Johnny Walker Blue Label at Total Wine for $230, which will yield about 17, 1.5 ounce shots.

17 shots x $60 = $1,020
$1,020 - $230 = $790 gross profit

Most bars selling top shelf scotch give a better pour than just a jigger.

[retiredguy123]

All business owners wish it were as simple as that calculation. From that $790 you need to deduct the the direct labor costs (which unfortunately have been very high to attract labor from a shrinking pool), percentage of overhead costs (including rent, utilities, insurance, maintenance, taxes, etc), percentage of fringe benefits (health, life, 401k, if any of these apply), and percentage of general and administrative costs like business management, hostess, etc. There is always a higher profit margin in alcohol sales, but the profit surely ain't $790 per bottle of whiskey. And, I'm certainly not suggesting $60 for a shot of whiskey is reasonable. I wouldn't pay that no way, no how. Precisely why I don't drink :)
I calculated the gross profit, not net profit.

[dewilson58]

I calculated the gross profit, not net profit.

I for one knew that.

[dewilson58]

Suleimans own Havana, Legacy, Glenview and now the Angus Grill.

& your point???

(jus so you know, they don't OWN Havana, Legacy Glenview)

[dewilson58]

☕ You need some coffee. Talking about Sawgrass, not a CC. Just saying they charge big$ for low quality/quantity. Wake up. ☕😂

Country Club pricing but mall food court quality. Small portions served on paper with plastic utensils.

chilout

Took her second comment as related to her first comment...........CC's.

I don't drink coffee in the afternoon, thanks for the suggestion thou.

[Fltpkr]

Thanks

[Graspher]

"So you didn't give a tip, eh? Might want to stick to Mickey D's. I haven't had a bad food purchase there yet. Pizza was excellent and a great price. Seafood tacos at Little Fin were superb. Mocha Latte at Golden Hills coffee is excellent."

Should have been followed by : This was a paid announcement by the owners or their few friends.

:BigApplause:

[Stu from NYC]

Excellent take-away. I bet the rounding down would neutralize the no coin change provided concept. This would slightly favor the customer and remove the heat from their policy. And I bet not really result in any real loss to the establishment.

The Frenchy's employee announced the amount due - I passed over $20 and was expecting a return of change.

Frenchy's employee placed my cash in the drawer and closed it without missing a beat. Never said anything about their NO coin change provided policy.

I didn't bother saying anything cause I wasn't going to sweat the .64. My initial thought was he forgot to provide the change...followed by he made a decision to auto-tip himself.

It wasn't until I returned to retrieve the pizza that I saw the no change sign on the counter way opposite of the register.

I'm going with robbery.

I would have politely requested the change and if they told me the policy would have told the employee what I thought of it.

[Graspher]

Sorry you were so nice. Most folks would do as you did and not make a fuss over a measly 64 cents. I am not most people. I would have called them out and explained to the management in front of the waiting customers why what they are doing is theft. There is a principle here and is shining a spotlight on a lack of honesty and integrity.

I don't disagree with your approach - it provides a form of immediate relief/notification/awareness. But I don't think that gets you any farther then my approach. End of day both of us won't return and the employee who receives your position will do nothing about changing the current policies/procedures.

A few folks surrounding the discussion will get some degree of insight as to what's going on... and I could be wrong here... but I feel way more folks will gain a better sense of the whole concept via this post on TOTV.

[Bilyclub]

Pot stirring?

On TOTV, never.

[Dotneko]

or RedRose where you get to watch everything going on in the kitchen. excellent food. piesanos used to be better in the early days. it was close to bertucci's, but they must've changed either leadership or recipes-everything is spicy now, with added salt. it used to be our go to place until i discovered Gio's off 466. it's like 'grandma's pizza', & lovely ambiance. is in the same plaza off the road near a veterinarian's office

OMG - Red Rose has great pizza! Bonus is that it is next to MGM lol. (Springfield, MA)

[Chi-Town]

No coin change is not a problem if going to charity.

[tophcfa]

Country Club pricing but mall food court quality. Small portions served on paper with plastic utensils.

chilout

Took her second comment as related to her first comment...........CC's.

I don't drink coffee in the afternoon, thanks for the suggestion thou.

Did you ever solve that reheating yesterday’s unused pot of coffee thing?

[ElDiabloJoe]

...

I stopped into McGrady's last week to have a beer after golf. Disappointing beer selection for an "Irish" pub, and the least expensive beer was $7 for a glass. Ridiculous for a Villages restaurant.

I believe they (The Developer) intended it to be a Scottish pub. My people (Irish Celts) have much better pubs than that.

I wonder if the "No Change" place would accept your $19. on a $19.64 order? I bet the .64 is important to them then.

Once upon a time, I went to a bakery in Laguna Beach, CA. The state law is that groceries and take-out food items are NOT taxed. Probably the only thing on God's green earth that California doesn't tax. Anyhow, the guy at the bakery charged me tax on my to-go item. I pointed it out to him. He said his accountant told him to just charge tax on everything because it was easier (for them) that way. I never returned to that bakery.

[dewilson58]

Did you ever solve that reheating yesterday’s unused pot of coffee thing?

WOW, what a memory.

Ended up with a Hamilton Beach, FlexBrew machine.
The warming pad is hot enough re-heat a 1/2 pot.
As a bonus, it makes one-cup-at-a-time with a Keurig style brew option.
(someone in the household wants organic coffee)

[tophcfa]

WOW, what a memory.

Ended up with a Hamilton Beach, FlexBrew machine.
The warming pad is hot enough re-heat a 1/2 pot.
As a bonus, it makes one-cup-at-a-time with a Keurig style brew option.
(someone in the household wants organic coffee)

Good solution, problem solved!

[fdpaq0580]

I absolutely would not make a fuss over 64 cents. I never sweat the small stuff.

Years ago, I worked for a very large company. Becoming concerned with excessive expenditures, they made an issue over pencils, among other things. A pencil is "small stuff", but if every employee took their pencil home every day and didn't return it, thousands of dollars worth of pencils pilfered daily would cause "small stuff" to become a very big deal.
The point is not the 64 cents, it is that they use this phony "we don't make change" policy to steal money from their customers. A little here, a little there, adds up to a whole lot of stolen (and very likely) unreported income by the end of the year.
If they won't give you your change or round the balance down, then you're being scammed. And so is everyone else they have done this to.

[JSR22]

Years ago, I worked for a very large company. Becoming concerned with excessive expenditures, they made an issue over pencils, among other things. A pencil is "small stuff", but if every employee took their pencil home every day and didn't return it, thousands of dollars worth of pencils pilfered daily would cause "small stuff" to become a very big deal.
The point is not the 64 cents, it is that they use this phony "we don't make change" policy to steal money from their customers. A little here, a little there, adds up to a whole lot of stolen (and very likely) unreported income by the end of the year.
If they won't give you your change or round the balance down, then you're being scammed. And so is everyone else they have done this to.

Does not matter to me.

[fdpaq0580]

Does not matter to me.

Fine.

[Stu from NYC]

I believe they (The Developer) intended it to be a Scottish pub. My people (Irish Celts) have much better pubs than that.

I wonder if the "No Change" place would accept your $19. on a $19.64 order? I bet the .64 is important to them then.

Once upon a time, I went to a bakery in Laguna Beach, CA. The state law is that groceries and take-out food items are NOT taxed. Probably the only thing on God's green earth that California doesn't tax. Anyhow, the guy at the bakery charged me tax on my to-go item. I pointed it out to him. He said his accountant told him to just charge tax on everything because it was easier (for them) that way. I never returned to that bakery.

Wow it is sure easier to increase your profit this way.

[fdpaq0580]

Wow it is sure easier to increase your profit this way.

Who says "crime doesn't pay"?😏

[Larchap49]

Piesano's has the best pizza not only in Florida, but from the midwest to the Atlantic ocean. Pizza from up north can't touch it.

It's fantastic. I will stick with them. :coolsmiley:

Wrong wrong and wrong again. 3 for 3

[Larchap49]

30 minutes for the pizza? Not my experience. I’ve ordered pizza on three occasions (two pies each time) and have had it ready in 10 minutes or less.

Well it sounds like they only half cook it so I can believe that

[DaleDivine]

I would have politely requested the change and if they told me the policy would have told the employee what I thought of it.

Soooo, if the pizza costs $19.02, do THEY keep the 98 cents?
They should just charge $20 for a pizza and everyone would accept that.
Then no big deal about change...

:bowdown::bowdown::icon_hungry::yuck:

[DaleDivine]

Wrong wrong and wrong again. 3 for 3

We like Stavro's pizza.
:BigApplause::BigApplause::thumbup:

[Lalexa8]

First world problems!

[Stu from NYC]

Soooo, if the pizza costs $19.02, do THEY keep the 98 cents?
They should just charge $20 for a pizza and everyone would accept that.
Then no big deal about change...

:bowdown::bowdown::icon_hungry::yuck:

Very true the owner should have thought of that before he started this policy

[thelegges]

Well it sounds like they only half cook it so I can believe that

True wood fire pizza oven only takes minutes. Ours up north pie has to be turn every 20-30 seconds or it will be a crispy burnt puck. Fire is in the back so constant peel up and turn 1/4..Total time in home wood fire oven less than 3-4 minutes

[END OTT]

Need more comfort in the seating if they expect a longer stay

[Laker14]

I believe they (The Developer) intended it to be a Scottish pub. My people (Irish Celts) have much better pubs than that.

I wonder if the "No Change" place would accept your $19. on a $19.64 order? I bet the .64 is important to them then.

Once upon a time, I went to a bakery in Laguna Beach, CA. The state law is that groceries and take-out food items are NOT taxed. Probably the only thing on God's green earth that California doesn't tax. Anyhow, the guy at the bakery charged me tax on my to-go item. I pointed it out to him. He said his accountant told him to just charge tax on everything because it was easier (for them) that way. I never returned to that bakery.

Back in 1970, when I was in high school, I worked at a McDonald's in Cincinnati. At that time Ohio did not tax take out orders. We were told NOT to ask if it was "to go". If a customer didn't specify, we were to charge the tax. Most of the time they got away with it, and if they didn't, it was just the poor schlub (i.e. me and my fellow schlubs) who took the angry brunt of the customers.
Nothing surprises me about this.

[Dotneko]

St Cats really doesn't need a food court. The ice cream/bakery and meat market aren't going to have enough turnover to make a profit. Make it a sit down restaurant with comfortable seating and better acoustics.
At least McGradys food is edible. Maybe a bit expensive, but servers and bartenders are friendly. Nice atmosphere. Once the music starts, the porch will be packed.

[dewilson58]

Once the music starts, the porch will be packed.

Water drinkers like Katie B's ????

[Stu from NYC]

Water drinkers like Katie B's ????

I suspect that if that starts to happen he will institute a minimum bill.

[thelegges]

I suspect that if that starts to happen he will institute a minimum bill.

KB’s finally went to a minimum on drink, food, and at the end length of time for tables. We see how that worked out.

[Dusty_Star]

Excellent take-away. I bet the rounding down would neutralize the no coin change provided concept. This would slightly favor the customer and remove the heat from their policy. And I bet not really result in any real loss to the establishment.

The Frenchy's employee announced the amount due - I passed over $20 and was expecting a return of change.

Frenchy's employee placed my cash in the drawer and closed it without missing a beat. Never said anything about their NO coin change provided policy.

I didn't bother saying anything cause I wasn't going to sweat the .64. My initial thought was he forgot to provide the change...followed by he made a decision to auto-tip himself.

It wasn't until I returned to retrieve the pizza that I saw the no change sign on the counter way opposite of the register.

I'm going with robbery.

I agree with the robbery conclusion, if they have a no coin change policy then they should round in the customer's favor & given you a paper dollar back.

There is currently a coin shortage nationwide. This is due to the mint shutting down amidst the Covid hysteria. The mint is now reopen & minting coins but it is taking a long time to get the coin liquidity back into the market. If this is the ultimate reason for the no change policy at Sawgrass it would be wiser & more customer friendly to have signs prominently placed that say something along the lines that due to the current coin shortage they need customers to either pay with exact change or cards. If this were more widely known, it would be easy for people to make their own determination, either grab some coins before heading out or decide to pay with a card. The option that Sawgrass has taken is unreasonable & will likely result in the current businesses' failure, in my opinion.

The Fed - Are U.S. coins in short supply? (https://www.federalreserve.gov/faqs/why-do-us-coins-seem-to-be-in-short-supply-coin-shortage.htm)

[PoolBrews]

but no Bass Ale! i'd pay a higher price if i could just find it. so far i've only seen it in that liquor warehouse type business on 441, can't remember the name. any other place is hit or miss whether they carry it @ all. hubby's family was from Burton-on-Trent, so Bass was a staple in the home. is also darn good & hearty

I haven't seen Bass ale on tap anywhere around here. Having said that, Harp is pretty close. O'Keefe's in Tavares has that on tap, as well as Guinness, Smithwicks, and Magner cider. Good food as well. I'll take a Smithwicks any day over Bass. More flavor - maltier, breadier, and smoooooth. No bite on the back end like Bass. Everyone's tastes are different, that's why there are so many beers out there!

[Keefelane66]

I agree with the robbery conclusion, if they have a no coin change policy then they should round in the customer's favor & given you a paper dollar back.

There is currently a coin shortage nationwide. This is due to the mint shutting down amidst the Covid hysteria. The mint is now reopen & minting coins but it is taking a long time to get the coin liquidity back into the market. If this is the ultimate reason for the no change policy at Sawgrass it would be wiser & more customer friendly to have signs prominently placed that say something along the lines that due to the current coin shortage they need customers to either pay with exact change or cards. If this were more widely known, it would be easy for people to make their own determination, either grab some coins before heading out or decide to pay with a card. The option that Sawgrass has taken is unreasonable & will likely result in the current businesses' failure, in my opinion.

The Fed - Are U.S. coins in short supply? (https://www.federalreserve.gov/faqs/why-do-us-coins-seem-to-be-in-short-supply-coin-shortage.htm)
Your Fed link is from May 2021 plenty of change now. Coin shortage is now just another way to take advantage of customers. If I want to make a donation to charity I do it in my name!

[Rainger99]

Interesting article on why airport food is so expensive. Maybe they will do an article on Sawgrass. I don't think employee parking is a factor in Sawgrass.

The Truth About Expensive Airport Food: Why Does it Cost So Much? (https://www.theparkingspot.com/blog/airport-food)

[msilagy]

I come back to TV soon and not excited about "ONE" restaurant - and Sawgrass pizza....YUCK!

[Stu from NYC]

KB’s finally went to a minimum on drink, food, and at the end length of time for tables. We see how that worked out.

Did not know they did that thanks for sharing. Wonder why that didnt help turn the place around?

[retiredguy123]

Interesting article on why airport food is so expensive. Maybe they will do an article on Sawgrass. I don't think employee parking is a factor in Sawgrass.

The Truth About Expensive Airport Food: Why Does it Cost So Much? (https://www.theparkingspot.com/blog/airport-food)
When I lived in Northern Virginia, the airport restaurants at Dulles and National, were not allowed to charge more for food than they charged for the same items at the regional malls.

[Tom M]

Excellent take-away. I bet the rounding down would neutralize the no coin change provided concept. This would slightly favor the customer and remove the heat from their policy. And I bet not really result in any real loss to the establishment.

The Frenchy's employee announced the amount due - I passed over $20 and was expecting a return of change.

Frenchy's employee placed my cash in the drawer and closed it without missing a beat. Never said anything about their NO coin change provided policy.

I didn't bother saying anything cause I wasn't going to sweat the .64. My initial thought was he forgot to provide the change...followed by he made a decision to auto-tip himself.

It wasn't until I returned to retrieve the pizza that I saw the no change sign on the counter way opposite of the register.

I'm going with robbery.


Maybe give them $19 and tell them your policy is to not pay the change portion :-)

Do they take checks?

[Tom M]

I believe they (The Developer) intended it to be a Scottish pub. My people (Irish Celts) have much better pubs than that.

I wonder if the "No Change" place would accept your $19. on a $19.64 order? I bet the .64 is important to them then.

Once upon a time, I went to a bakery in Laguna Beach, CA. The state law is that groceries and take-out food items are NOT taxed. Probably the only thing on God's green earth that California doesn't tax. Anyhow, the guy at the bakery charged me tax on my to-go item. I pointed it out to him. He said his accountant told him to just charge tax on everything because it was easier (for them) that way. I never returned to that bakery.

Maybe you could notify them ahead of time by placing a small note at the end of the table before ordering that you will be rounding the bill down to the nearest even dollar amount. Seems just as fair as what they are doing.

[thelegges]

Did not know they did that thanks for sharing. Wonder why that didnt help turn the place around?

Because free water was no longer allowed while you took up space at a table for hours, without spending any money. KB’s Hay day the developers sent you for the free meals while on lifestyle visit. We got a kick out of watching those who sat for more than 2 hours dancing, adding crystal light or their teabags to the free water.

When 2 drink minimum started crowds dwindled quickly, food went downhill at the same time. Once the the entertainment went from free to pay, it was a quick death

[Stu from NYC]

Because free water was no longer allowed while you took up space at a table for hours, without spending any money. KB’s Hay day the developers sent you for the free meals while on lifestyle visit. We got a kick out of watching those who sat for more than 2 hours dancing, adding crystal light or their teabags to the free water.

When 2 drink minimum started crowds dwindled quickly, food went downhill at the same time. Once the the entertainment went from free to pay, it was a quick death

Thanks for the history lesson, it closed before we moved in.

[thelegges]

Thanks for the history lesson, it closed before we moved in.

When we came in 07 KBs had great food, diners were upstairs and could look down on the dance floor. Great salad bar, specials every night, service was impeccable. However down on the dance floor very little money was made, and the diners profit just couldn’t support the venue.

Do I miss KB’s not really, by 2010 I think we only stopped by for drinks when company came. Like the squares we may visit once a month if that

[Graspher]

I agree with the robbery conclusion, if they have a no coin change policy then they should round in the customer's favor & given you a paper dollar back.

There is currently a coin shortage nationwide. This is due to the mint shutting down amidst the Covid hysteria. The mint is now reopen & minting coins but it is taking a long time to get the coin liquidity back into the market. If this is the ultimate reason for the no change policy at Sawgrass it would be wiser & more customer friendly to have signs prominently placed that say something along the lines that due to the current coin shortage they need customers to either pay with exact change or cards. If this were more widely known, it would be easy for people to make their own determination, either grab some coins before heading out or decide to pay with a card. The option that Sawgrass has taken is unreasonable & will likely result in the current businesses' failure, in my opinion.

The Fed - Are U.S. coins in short supply? (https://www.federalreserve.gov/faqs/why-do-us-coins-seem-to-be-in-short-supply-coin-shortage.htm)

Excellent point and I agree that different signage would be much more customer receptive....if it is the coin shortage.

[Graspher]

Maybe give them $19 and tell them your policy is to not pay the change portion :-)

Do they take checks?

:BigApplause: Right on to that!

Checks? No clue.

[Graspher]

maybe you could notify them ahead of time by placing a small note at the end of the table before ordering that you will be rounding the bill down to the nearest even dollar amount. Seems just as fair as what they are doing.

true that !!

[Babubhat]

Not providing change is theft. Period

[NECHFalcon68]

Any place around here where you can get Sam Adams Boston Lager on tap?

Millers Ale House. Also has the seasonal on tap.

[ThirdOfFive]

Maybe give them $19 and tell them your policy is to not pay the change portion :-)

Do they take checks?
Why not plunk down $X for the waitperson and just tell them to add the change to the tip?

[ThirdOfFive]

When I lived in Northern Virginia, the airport restaurants at Dulles and National, were not allowed to charge more for food than they charged for the same items at the regional malls.
Salt Lake City and Denver appear to have reasonable (compared to most airports, anyway) pricing on food items. Most others don't. LaGuardia for some reason sticks in my mind as really high-buck. We had an eight-hour layover there once and spent quite a bit for two meals. Service was rude as well.

Last month at Minneapolis - St. Paul airport I had a three-hour early morning wait for my flight. Looking for breakfast I spied a major chain place with long lines and very high prices. Just across the concourse though was this little joint staffed by Somalis (maybe run by them too as there has been a push to assist minorities to develop small businesses up there) that I had never seen there before but which had self-serve breakfast sandwiches and really good coffee for significantly less than what the other place was selling for. Prompt, friendly service as well.

[Tom359]

Bass was bought out by Coors. They will no longer be making it in kegs, bottles only. Heard that from a bartender at the British pub in Epcot. He said it happened suddenly. They had been on back order for some time, then they were told they would not be receiving anymore.

[Dani & Bill]

Once they finish building and opening the entertainment square (once they get past whatever issue has stopped them from proceeding installing the rest of the awnings), Sawgrass Grove will transform into a happening place. Until then, I'm sure the businesses inside are losing a fortune.

We shall see... I personally disagree. The novelty of Sawgrass as an entertainment venue will quickly wear off as patrons realize it has no ambiance or personality and will opt for Brownwood. The food, cost and other stupid policies like no coin change will contribute to the venue's negative aura. Sawgrass is a complete disappointment so far with nothing on the horizon to dissuade me at least from feeling otherwise.

[JP]

Most of the negative comments about Sawgrass were also said about Brownwood for years. New businesses and areas take time to develop and change. I think Sawgrass will eventually be vey popular.

[Kelevision]

We shall see... I personally disagree. The novelty of Sawgrass as an entertainment venue will quickly wear off as patrons realize it has no ambiance or personality and will opt for Brownwood. The food, cost and other stupid policies like no coin change will contribute to the venue's negative aura. Sawgrass is a complete disappointment so far with nothing on the horizon to dissuade me at least from feeling otherwise.

You can’t really compare Sawgrass to Brownwood. It’s more of an alternate to a Country Club for the Championship Course. Easpoint will be the 4th Town Square.

[Bill14564]

You can’t really compare Sawgrass to Brownwood. It’s more of an alternate to a Country Club for the Championship Course. Easpoint will be the 4th Town Square.

I don't understand the comparison to a Country Club. None of the country clubs in the Brownwood area have standalone pizza and sweet shops, none are expecting a butcher, and none have a large stage and viewing area. Plus most (all?) the country clubs in the Brownwood area are adjacent to a golf course (not a putting course).

It's not a town square, but it isn't a country club either.

[thelegges]

I don't understand the comparison to a Country Club. None of the country clubs in the Brownwood area have standalone pizza and sweet shops, none are expecting a butcher, and none have a large stage and viewing area. Plus most (all?) the country clubs in the Brownwood area are adjacent to a golf course (not a putting course).

It's not a town square, but it isn't a country club either.

Developer wanted a new concept instead of building a country club. Their house their rules. Since they lease all the restaurants in CC this may have been a way not to deal with finding tenants for large country club venue.

Down the road if it works well for the developers country clubs may be a thing of the past

[coffeebean]

Developer wanted a new concept instead of building a country club. Their house their rules. Since they lease all the restaurants in CC this may have been a way not to deal with finding tenants for large country club venue.

Down the road if it works well for the developers country clubs may be a thing of the past

Let's hope not for the southern village's sake. Country clubs are what has worked for years and there is too many complaints about Sawgrass and what it is attempting to be.

[thelegges]

Let's hope not for the southern village's sake. Country clubs are what has worked for years and there is too many complaints about Sawgrass and what it is attempting to be.

However if the new concept works in the developers favor, still their house their rules. In 13 years, I would guess we have eaten in a country club, maybe 10 times a year. With hard to find staff, large venues just requires more people than can be recruited. If you notice the square foot of country clubs has greatly decreased. With the removal of one CC, that course is still being played, without the benefit of a building, or a sawgrass prototype

[Stu from NYC]

Let's hope not for the southern village's sake. Country clubs are what has worked for years and there is too many complaints about Sawgrass and what it is attempting to be.

Lets hope that when Sawgrass is finally finished they will be serving a product that villages will be happy with.

[Bill14564]

Developer wanted a new concept instead of building a country club. Their house their rules. Since they lease all the restaurants in CC this may have been a way not to deal with finding tenants for large country club venue.

Down the road if it works well for the developers country clubs may be a thing of the past

Or did they want a new concept instead of building a town square? What makes Sawgrass anything like a country club other than a reluctance to call it a town square?

[thelegges]

Lets hope that when Sawgrass is finally finished they will be serving a product that villages will be happy with.

16 years ago we spent most of our time in SS because LSL was so new it took 5 minutes to take it in. Once Brownwood was built we rarely go to LSL and can’t remember last time we were in SS.

Fast forward to 2024, Middleton will be taking shape, with new shopping and venues. No matter how you look at it the Developers have continued to make people happy, and selling more house’s in a month than any other community.

Once sawgrass opens its music venue, it will like Edna’s, a place to locally stop for a snack, drink and some music. Difference is at Sawgrass when it pours down rain you have a large building to go to. Edna’s not so much.

[JMintzer]

I don't understand the comparison to a Country Club. None of the country clubs in the Brownwood area have standalone pizza and sweet shops, none are expecting a butcher, and none have a large stage and viewing area. Plus most (all?) the country clubs in the Brownwood area are adjacent to a golf course (not a putting course).

It's not a town square, but it isn't a country club either.

Hence the "alternative" to a country club comment...

It's called a "Market" fer chrissakes...

[JMintzer]

Or did they want a new concept instead of building a town square? What makes Sawgrass anything like a country club other than a reluctance to call it a town square?

The Pro Shop for the golf course...

They are sill going to have a new Town Square in Eastport...

[Djean1981]

Let's hope not for the southern village's sake. Country clubs are what has worked for years and there is too many complaints about Sawgrass and what it is attempting to be.
I've never been to a "country club.". It sounds stuffy..?

[P A Paul]

Everybody has to be somewhere…with the housing boom comes people, and the population density means all of the these places will be utilized in some form. One of the advantages of The Villages is the increase in amenities and commercial options rise in number to accommodate the residents. The developers have experience and data that is more reliable than most conjecture occurring on the message boards.

[JMintzer]

I've never been to a "country club.". It sounds stuffy..?

Just this one...

http://www.caddyshackminute.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Caddyshack-Minute-32-Happy-Thanksgiving.png

[thelegges]

I've never been to a "country club.". It sounds stuffy..?

So a visit to any of the championship golf course, country clubs will give you a in person experience. Not that hard, just walk right in, no playing of golf is required :oops:

[JSR22]

So a visit to any of the championship golf course, country clubs will give you a in person experience. Not that hard, just walk right in, no playing of golf is required :oops:

hey are restaurants open to the public. No membership.

[fdpaq0580]

hey are restaurants open to the public. No membership.

Only the ones that know the secret handshake.
😀👋✌✊👌👎👍👐

[JSR22]

Only the ones that know the secret handshake.
😀👋✌✊👌👎👍👐

I find it so odd that some people think they are members of a golf course restaurant. Very strange.

[JMintzer]

Only the ones that know the secret handshake.
😀👋✌✊👌👎👍👐

https://c.tenor.com/e7B8WV5Ow7EAAAAC/drake-will-ferrell.gif

[thelegges]

I find it so odd that some people think they are members of a golf course restaurant. Very strange.

I don’t think anyone thinks they are members of a CC course, or restaurant in TV.

Now if you are a member at Oakland Hills, in beginning buy in was $50,000 now close to quadruple. Plus you must spend $300 plus a month in restaurant, or you pay that $300 every month. That is a true exclusive membership, that a guest 18 hole round is $250 plus caddy.

Guessing most would remember paying those fees, for the privilege of being a member at a country club

[Laker14]

hey are restaurants open to the public. No membership.

The "Country Clubs" in TV are not private. If you are envisioning the private country clubs where one has to be a member to be welcome, you are understandably confused.
There are no memberships to the country clubs. They are open to anyone. As far as green fees go for the golf, there are various rates depending upon your status. Are you a resident? Are you a "priority member"? Are you a guest of a resident ? Are you none of the above? The answer to those questions will determine your greens fee, as well as your accessibility, however, there is no answer that would automatically exclude you from playing.
As far as the restaurant, to my knowledge, you can walk in and they will seat you, serve you, be nice to you, and accept your money.
As far as the pools, I don't know. I think you need to be a Priority Member, with an add-on fee to use the pools. I'll defer to someone else to explain that, or to correct me, or expand on my understanding.

[coffeebean]

16 years ago we spent most of our time in SS because LSL was so new it took 5 minutes to take it in. Once Brownwood was built we rarely go to LSL and can’t remember last time we were in SS.

Fast forward to 2024, Middleton will be taking shape, with new shopping and venues. No matter how you look at it the Developers have continued to make people happy, and selling more house’s in a month than any other community.

Once sawgrass opens its music venue, it will like Edna’s, a place to locally stop for a snack, drink and some music. Difference is at Sawgrass when it pours down rain you have a large building to go to. Edna’s not so much.
Your comment made me think of this..........I never thought of this but I would bet the restaurants and shops in the squares don't mind when it "pours down rain" because that drives the crowds into their venues.

[coffeebean]

I've never been to a "country club.". It sounds stuffy..?

You should experience a country club at least once. The Villages' country clubs are the opposite of "stuffy". They are really casual and fun. Sometimes there is live music and it is a lovely thing to sit outdoors in the cooler months and take in the beautiful views of the golf courses.

[coffeebean]

Just this one...

http://www.caddyshackminute.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Caddyshack-Minute-32-Happy-Thanksgiving.png

We lived across the street from the golf course that this movie was filmed in a master planned community.

[Djean1981]

You should experience a country club at least once. The Villages' country clubs are the opposite of "stuffy". They are really casual and fun. Sometimes there is live music and it is a lovely thing to sit outdoors in the cooler months and take in the beautiful views of the golf courses.
I will have to try it.

[fdpaq0580]

https://c.tenor.com/e7B8WV5Ow7EAAAAC/drake-will-ferrell.gif

Yes! That's the handshake.😄

[JSR22]

The "Country Clubs" in TV are not private. If you are envisioning the private country clubs where one has to be a member to be welcome, you are understandably confused.
There are no memberships to the country clubs. They are open to anyone. As far as green fees go for the golf, there are various rates depending upon your status. Are you a resident? Are you a "priority member"? Are you a guest of a resident ? Are you none of the above? The answer to those questions will determine your greens fee, as well as your accessibility, however, there is no answer that would automatically exclude you from playing.
As far as the restaurant, to my knowledge, you can walk in and they will seat you, serve you, be nice to you, and accept your money.
As far as the pools, I don't know. I think you need to be a Priority Member, with an add-on fee to use the pools. I'll defer to someone else to explain that, or to correct me, or expand on my understanding.

Priority use to include the priority pools and trail fees. They are not included anymore. Anybody can purchase a pool membership without people having priority golf.

[Keefelane66]

We lived across the street from the golf course that this movie was filmed in a master planned community.
Grande Oaks Golf Club in Davie.Fl

[coffeebean]

Grande Oaks Golf Club in Davie.Fl

That's not it. I looked it up. The name of the golf course is Rolling Hills Country Club and you are correct.....it is in Davie, Florida.

[Laker14]

Priority use to include the priority pools and trail fees. They are not included anymore. Anybode can purchase a poll membership without people having priority golf.

I did know that the Priority Membership used to include the country club pools (as well the trail fees), but I did not know that you can now purchase a pool membership separately from the priority membership.
I get the Priority Membership for golf when I am in TV, and have never used a CC pool. I wonder why anyone would pay extra to use a CC pool when there are pools all over TV already included in the amenity fee.

[thelegges]

I did know that the Priority Membership used to include the country club pools (as well the trail fees), but I did not know that you can now purchase a pool membership separately from the priority membership.
I get the Priority Membership for golf when I am in TV, and have never used a CC pool. I wonder why anyone would pay extra to use a CC pool when there are pools all over TV already included in the amenity fee.

With our enhanced golf membership (priority until 4/22 that included pools) we continue to add pool enhancement. Have always used CC pools, taken our guests, since 2010. The pools are larger, deeper, and have Ability to get a drink, or food, less people, is just convenient for us.

[retiredguy123]

It is a misnomer that The Villages calls them "country clubs". There is no membership requirement and no special rules. They don't look or function anything like a typical, private country club. They have no quiet areas where "members" can sit and talk or play cards. Basically, they are a bar, restaurant, and entertainment area that is open to the public. I think The Villages should rename them.

[JSR22]

I did know that the Priority Membership used to include the country club pools (as well the trail fees), but I did not know that you can now purchase a pool membership separately from the priority membership.
I get the Priority Membership for golf when I am in TV, and have never used a CC pool. I wonder why anyone would pay extra to use a CC pool when there are pools all over TV already included in the amenity fee.

You can order food, less crowded and you can bring your guests.

[JSR22]

It is a misnomer that The Villages calls them "country clubs". There is no membership requirement and no special rules. They don't look or function anything like a typical, private country club. They have no quiet areas where "members" can sit and talk or play cards. Basically, they are a bar, restaurant, and entertainment area that is open to the public. I think The Villages should rename them.
Totally agree. Just call them restaurants.

[vintageogauge]

You can order food, less crowded and you can bring your guests.

Sorta like the Fenney Family Pool behind the bar and grille except it does get crowded at times but it's free.

[JSR22]

Sorta like the Fenney Family Pool behind the bar and grille except it does get crowded at times but it's free.

The priority pool membership is inexpensive.

[lynne]

Our first visit was Sunday 9/11 - arrived 12:05 p.m. About 50 people milling around - 20 surrounding the bar area - 4 tables were occupied.

Chose Frenchy's for a wood-fired pizza - 4 employees working the pizza production.

"I'd like a medium pepperoni and sausage pizza".

"We only make one size and it's 12 inches. You can't order a pepperoni and sausage pizza. You can only order a pizza as described on our menu - but we can add and subtract toppings."

Their menu details 5 or 6 pizza combinations (each selectable pizza has several toppings on it). One of their selections includes sausage plus other toppings and another of their selections features pepperoni plus other toppings.

We chose their "sausage" pizza - deleted the onions - deleted the roasted green peppers...and added pepperoni.

The sausage combo pizza is priced at $15.00. No monetary deduction for eliminating the onions or peppers. There was an upcharge of $3.00 for the pepperoni. Total including a tax of $1.36 was $19.36.

I handed over $20 in cash. The receipt showed Total Due 19.36 / pymt cash 20.00 / Change Due .64. The cash register knows change is due - but Frenchy's policy is - they don't give coin change. They have a sign that says no coin provided but it is not located near the register.

Our pizza order was placed at 12:13pm (per the receipt). Our boxed pizza was presented to us at 12:48pm. Paper plates were not offered - but were provided upon request. The paper plates were....more paper then anything else. Very flimsy and couldn't support the weight of a small slice of pizza with just two toppings on it.

Frenchy's uses a wood-fired oven. The bottom of the crust was not crispy and was absent any degree of visible leoparding.

Darlin's Sweet Shoppe will not accept cash - only cards.

At least one other establishment (possibly 2) have signs posted indicating they will not provide any coin type change.

The majority of seating in the market area consists of flat steel or solid wood seat bottoms.

Them the facts and nothing but the facts...

We visited the Market of Sawgrass on 10/2. Daily Sun is advertising their entertainment schedule. Expected to sit outside and listen to some music. Not so - that area is fenced off. Entertainment is inside - one singer and accoustics not great for his singing.

Looked at a couple menus - the Lobster Roll for $28 turned us away.

Walked through the Villages Grown - an ear of corn for $1.39 .....

Won't be going back soon.

[Freehiker]

I don't know what the holdup is on Sawgrass Grove, but I think they are doing more harm than good at this point by having it partially open. If the bands were playing and people were out having a great time, then the lively atmosphere might help make up for the struggles they are having inside of the building.

All you're getting now is average food, very high prices and poor service. I don't see a lot of people having fun or seem to be enjoying themselves.

Hopefully it will improve once they get everything running but it's just not worth it for us right now.

[daniel200]

"Darlin's Sweet Shoppe will not accept cash - only cards."

"This note is legal tender for all debts, public and private" ($1 bill, U.S. currency)


Well, this kind of refusal to use currency has been around for a long, long time. Ever try to use cash to pay for a rental car? Very few will accept cash. I asked why this was once. They replied that boxes of cash were too often prone to theft and robbery. Cards eliminate this risk.

[Michael 61]

Well, this kind of refusal to use currency has been around for a long, long time. Ever try to use cash to pay for a rental car? Very few will accept cash. I asked why this was once. They replied that boxes of cash were too often prone to theft and robbery. Cards eliminate this risk.

The coffee place there in Sawgrass is a disappointment. Average coffee at best with high prices - service is extremely slow, waited 20 minutes for my coffee, with only 3 people ahead of me, and 2 baristas working behind the counter.

[retiredguy123]

Well, this kind of refusal to use currency has been around for a long, long time. Ever try to use cash to pay for a rental car? Very few will accept cash. I asked why this was once. They replied that boxes of cash were too often prone to theft and robbery. Cards eliminate this risk.
I don't know of any retail store in The Villages that won't accept cash, except Darlins.

I think that rental car companies require a credit card so they can charge it if you damage the car or don't return it. The same applies to Redbox when you rent movies. I would read these contract agreements very carefully.

[Papa_lecki]

It is a misnomer that The Villages calls them "country clubs". There is no membership requirement and no special rules. They don't look or function anything like a typical, private country club. They have no quiet areas where "members" can sit and talk or play cards. Basically, they are a bar, restaurant, and entertainment area that is open to the public. I think The Villages should rename them.

I wondered why The Villages didn't make one or two of the Championship Courses a real country club business model - you pay a non equity initiation fee, annual dues, minimum food spend, add locker rooms?
Many would not join, but there seems to be enough who would

[John Mayes]

I wondered why The Villages didn't make one or two of the Championship Courses a real country club business model - you pay a non equity initiation fee, annual dues, minimum food spend, add locker rooms?
Many would not join, but there seems to be enough who would

I’ve heard that was the original plan for Glenview but didn’t work out for some reason.

[asianthree]

I wondered why The Villages didn't make one or two of the Championship Courses a real country club business model - you pay a non equity initiation fee, annual dues, minimum food spend, add locker rooms?
Many would not join, but there seems to be enough who would

Think about how many complain about a $4 cookie, or $5 cup of coffee. Can you imagine them dropping $20,000 plus to join a exclusive country club?
Can’t imagine a retirement community being able to support a true country club. The private club we belonged to was $20,000 buy in at build. When only 23% wanted to buy in they opened to the public. The private clubs that prosper have clientele that still is working, and small percentage that has retired.

[Stu from NYC]

Think about how many complain about a $4 cookie, or $5 cup of coffee. Can you imagine them dropping $20,000 plus to join a exclusive country club?
Can’t imagine a retirement community being able to support a true country club. The private club we belonged to was $20,000 buy in at build. When only 23% wanted to buy in they opened to the public. The private clubs that prosper have clientele that still is working, and small percentage that has retired.

Another factor is a relatively small window where you can physically play the game.

[coffeebean]

The coffee place there in Sawgrass is a disappointment. Average coffee at best with high prices - service is extremely slow, waited 20 minutes for my coffee, with only 3 people ahead of me, and 2 baristas working behind the counter.
What in the world???? Did they go to Colombia to obtain the beans for crying out loud?

[JSR22]

Think about how many complain about a $4 cookie, or $5 cup of coffee. Can you imagine them dropping $20,000 plus to join a exclusive country club?
Can’t imagine a retirement community being able to support a true country club. The private club we belonged to was $20,000 buy in at build. When only 23% wanted to buy in they opened to the public. The private clubs that prosper have clientele that still is working, and small percentage that has retired.

In SE Florida there a number of private equity country clubs that cater to seniors. I the 90s my parents bought a home in Wycliffe Golf and Country Club. The equity was 40,000.
I think if they made Glenview private equity the memberships would sell out very quickly.

[Papa_lecki]

In SE Florida there a number of private equity country clubs that cater to seniors. I the 90s my parents bought a home in Wycliffe Golf and Country Club. The equity was 40,000.
I think if they made Glenview private equity the memberships would sell out very quickly.

All they need is 1% of villagers to join. The equity cash is equal to hundred of thousands of rounds of golf. Add on $10k in dues???

[asianthree]

In SE Florida there a number of private equity country clubs that cater to seniors. I the 90s my parents bought a home in Wycliffe Golf and Country Club. The equity was 40,000.
I think if they made Glenview private equity the memberships would sell out very quickly.

If any CC thought it would be a lucrative to go private, it would have been a done deal years ago. Think of the equity that could have built up for over 20 plus years, and yet not one course has put forth a proposal to the residents. There must be reasons for staying public. Glenview does have tiny locker room, but it would have to be 10 times the size to go private.

[Kingsport]

On September 25, we stopped at Sawgrass for a cookie. It was about 2:00. Better atmosphere than our first visit just after the OP. We got our cookie from Darlin’s. They also have a nice selection of cakes in the side display (I did not know this until I saw a GoldWingNut video). We bought a piece of “Florida Orange Cake” that was absolutely delicious. Music from McGrady’s wafted across the “square.” People were eating and drinking. I agree the place has its flaws. I think it has potential.

[VApeople]

Music from McGrady’s wafted across the “square.”

The last time I was there, the seating at Sawgrass was behind closed doors. Could you still hear the music from McGrady's?

[vintageogauge]

The last time I was there, the seating at Sawgrass was behind closed doors. Could you still hear the music from McGrady's?

There is outside seating on the east side of the building with access from inside, it's been there since they first opened, not a lot but enough to go out with a drink and relax with a few friends.

[Jerseygirl08]

Our first visit was Sunday 9/11 - arrived 12:05 p.m. About 50 people milling around - 20 surrounding the bar area - 4 tables were occupied.

Chose Frenchy's for a wood-fired pizza - 4 employees working the pizza production.

"I'd like a medium pepperoni and sausage pizza".

"We only make one size and it's 12 inches. You can't order a pepperoni and sausage pizza. You can only order a pizza as described on our menu - but we can add and subtract toppings."

Their menu details 5 or 6 pizza combinations (each selectable pizza has several toppings on it). One of their selections includes sausage plus other toppings and another of their selections features pepperoni plus other toppings.

We chose their "sausage" pizza - deleted the onions - deleted the roasted green peppers...and added pepperoni.

The sausage combo pizza is priced at $15.00. No monetary deduction for eliminating the onions or peppers. There was an upcharge of $3.00 for the pepperoni. Total including a tax of $1.36 was $19.36.

I handed over $20 in cash. The receipt showed Total Due 19.36 / pymt cash 20.00 / Change Due .64. The cash register knows change is due - but Frenchy's policy is - they don't give coin change. They have a sign that says no coin provided but it is not located near the register.

Our pizza order was placed at 12:13pm (per the receipt). Our boxed pizza was presented to us at 12:48pm. Paper plates were not offered - but were provided upon request. The paper plates were....more paper then anything else. Very flimsy and couldn't support the weight of a small slice of pizza with just two toppings on it.

Frenchy's uses a wood-fired oven. The bottom of the crust was not crispy and was absent any degree of visible leoparding.

Darlin's Sweet Shoppe will not accept cash - only cards.

At least one other establishment (possibly 2) have signs posted indicating they will not provide any coin type change.

The majority of seating in the market area consists of flat steel or solid wood seat bottoms.

Them the facts and nothing but the facts....
I was there about a month ago. I found the whole Market setup WEIRD, unfriendly, not worth ever returning to this place. I feel badly for the people who bought homes down there, expecting a cool "square". What they got - and are getting - is not a friendly-enjoyable place to visit. Sad.

[Jerseygirl08]

I haven't used cash or coins in years. Using a card and paying it in full each month is much easier, cleaner and profitable with perks.

Until you get charged to use your card. Or, even better, your card gets lifted by a thief or scammer. Good old cash comes in handy, IMHO.

[Papa_lecki]

If any CC thought it would be a lucrative to go private, it would have been a done deal years ago. Think of the equity that could have built up for over 20 plus years, and yet not one course has put forth a proposal to the residents. There must be reasons for staying public. Glenview does have tiny locker room, but it would have to be 10 times the size to go private.

You are right, i think the head aches would outweigh the benefits.

[Smalley]

Our first visit was Sunday 9/11 - arrived 12:05 p.m. About 50 people milling around - 20 surrounding the bar area - 4 tables were occupied.

Chose Frenchy's for a wood-fired pizza - 4 employees working the pizza production.

"I'd like a medium pepperoni and sausage pizza".

"We only make one size and it's 12 inches. You can't order a pepperoni and sausage pizza. You can only order a pizza as described on our menu - but we can add and subtract toppings."

Their menu details 5 or 6 pizza combinations (each selectable pizza has several toppings on it). One of their selections includes sausage plus other toppings and another of their selections features pepperoni plus other toppings.

We chose their "sausage" pizza - deleted the onions - deleted the roasted green peppers...and added pepperoni.

The sausage combo pizza is priced at $15.00. No monetary deduction for eliminating the onions or peppers. There was an upcharge of $3.00 for the pepperoni. Total including a tax of $1.36 was $19.36.

I handed over $20 in cash. The receipt showed Total Due 19.36 / pymt cash 20.00 / Change Due .64. The cash register knows change is due - but Frenchy's policy is - they don't give coin change. They have a sign that says no coin provided but it is not located near the register.

Our pizza order was placed at 12:13pm (per the receipt). Our boxed pizza was presented to us at 12:48pm. Paper plates were not offered - but were provided upon request. The paper plates were....more paper then anything else. Very flimsy and couldn't support the weight of a small slice of pizza with just two toppings on it.

Frenchy's uses a wood-fired oven. The bottom of the crust was not crispy and was absent any degree of visible leoparding.

Darlin's Sweet Shoppe will not accept cash - only cards.

At least one other establishment (possibly 2) have signs posted indicating they will not provide any coin type change.

The majority of seating in the market area consists of flat steel or solid wood seat bottoms.

Them the facts and nothing but the facts...

Sounds like a pizza rip-off and a tedious experience. Sorry!