Country Club Restaurants

[BrianL99]

After being in The Villages for almost a year, I had my first dinner at a Country Club, last night.

It sort of reminded me of Howard Johnson's, in the 70's. Dated decor, old silverware, wrapped in a paper napkin ... mashed potatoes, served with an "ice cream scooper". The food was ok, but was more like the kind of food you would find at a casual Mom & Pop restaurant, on a back road somewhere.

Without mentioning the name of which country club I was at, is it reasonable to assume all the country clubs all fairly similar?

[VIN574]

No.

[Babubhat]

Stick to bar food and drinks. Quality of preparation may vary by the day depending who is cooking. Not uncommon with short staffing to have “chef” fill ins. That is a term very loosely used here

[Inexes@aol.com]

No, I would say each has it's own following..... read restaurant reviews. But don't expect gourmet dining as you would in private country clubs in other areas. Lopez and Havana seem to have the best ratings....

[retiredguy123]

The term "country club" is a misnomer. They are not country clubs, they are just restaurants. I agree with your assessment. In my opinion, they are all mediocre, with the possible exceptions of Palmers and Lopez, and they are all noisy.

[village dreamer]

most of the country clubs food is just so,so. nothing great.

[ThirdOfFive]

The restaurant at Lopez is the best. Crowded, though, and tends to be VERY noisy at peak times. Outside dining, if available and weather permitting, is the best way to go.

[Keefelane66]

I always say it’s either a SYSCO or Cheney Bros menu

[Papa_lecki]

After being in The Villages for almost a year, I had my first dinner at a Country Club, last night.

It sort of reminded me of Howard Johnson's, in the 70's. Dated decor, old silverware, wrapped in a paper napkin ... mashed potatoes, served with an "ice cream scooper". The food was ok, but was more like the kind of food you would find at a casual Mom & Pop restaurant, on a back road somewhere.

Without mentioning the name of which country club I was at, is it reasonable to assume all the country clubs all fairly similar?

Considering the country cub restaurants are owned and operated by different ownership groups, NO

[Garywt]

Glenview is the second highest rated restaurant in the Villages behind only Red Sauce. I have not come across a dated club restaurant so I definitely would be interested in which one. I think I have been to 5 so far. Glenview is our favorite so far, we love to go to lunch at the club.

[BrianL99]

I always say it’s either a SYSCO or Cheney Bros menu

Sounds about right. I mentioned Howard Johnson's and I was a "cook" there, when I was in High School. "Chefs"? "Cooks"? We were "food warmers". I think Howard Johnson's was the first restaurant to put Microwave Ovens in use ... sure made our jobs in the kitchen, a lot easier.

[JSR22]

Glenview is the second highest rated restaurant in the Villages behind only Red Sauce. I have not come across a dated club restaurant so I definitely would be interested in which one. I think I have been to 5 so far. Glenview is our favorite so far, we love to go to lunch at the club.

The best restaurants in TV in alphabetical order:
Blue Fin
Bone Fish
Coastal Del Mar
Chop House
Harvest
Havana
Lopez
Mezza Luna
Palmer
Prima
Glenview and Red Sauce are average at best.

[Michael 61]

Glenview is the second highest rated restaurant in the Villages behind only Red Sauce. I have not come across a dated club restaurant so I definitely would be interested in which one. I think I have been to 5 so far. Glenview is our favorite so far, we love to go to lunch at the club.

What source are you using for your ratings? Neither of these two are any where near the top according to Yelp.

[JSR22]

What source are you using for your ratings? Neither of these two are any where near the top according to Yelp.

They are not near the top. We eat dinner out 3 to 4 times a week. They are not in our rotation.

[Babubhat]

Can anyone explain why the country club restaurants are so inferior to chop house in bluefin with the same ownership?

[Smalley]

I agree with the posters who rate Palmer, Glenview and Lopez as the best of the County Club restaurants. The porch at Glenview is a beautiful room with a pretty view. I haven't been this year yet but I used to enjoy the fish tacos there for lunch. Tierra del Sol is also one of the top ones.

[BrianL99]

The best restaurants in TV in alphabetical order:
Blue Fin
Bone Fish
Coastal Del Mar
Chop House
.

If these are "the best", I'm eating off campus from now on

[Papa_lecki]

Can anyone explain why the country club restaurants are so inferior to chop house in bluefin with the same ownership?

Different price points. You pay more, you get better quality ingredients.

[Babubhat]

Different price points. You pay more, you get better quality ingredients.

No. The difference in price doesn’t justify the lack of quality or attention. He can do better or just doesn’t care. Doesn’t matter, I am done with the country clubs food

[JSR22]

Can anyone explain why the country club restaurants are so inferior to chop house in bluefin with the same ownership?

FMK restaurants are not inferior. The other restaurants have higher price points so you will get different food.

[JSR22]

No. The difference in price doesn’t justify the lack of quality or attention. He can do better or just doesn’t care. Doesn’t matter, I am done with the country clubs food

They are not country clubs. Restaurants adjacent to a golf course.

[Papa_lecki]

No. The difference in price doesn’t justify the lack of quality or attention. He can do better or just doesn’t care. Doesn’t matter, I am done with the country clubs food

Higher prices = higher bills = higher tips = high quality staff.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

One of the country clubs back home was opened several years after my grandparents got married, and they were founding members of it. I grew up in the "country club set" and I can assure you - there's nothing stellar about country club food. I mean it was good tasting and properly cooked, but there was nothing about it that made it any better than anything my mom would cook at home. The only really memorable dish was the Lobster Newburg, which was always my favorite. But I'm pretty sure they used the Knorr mix and cooking sherry to make it.

Country club restaurants are always overpriced, and usually have components that are pre-packaged - if not completely pre-packaged. They're all portion controlled, and the main entree ingredient usually comes in frozen.

The Villages is no different. That doesn't make them bad, but I think some people have unrealistic expectations of food down here. Or they have really low standards.

[BrianL99]

I grew up in the "country club set" and I can assure you - there's nothing stellar about country club food. I mean it was good tasting and properly cooked, but there was nothing about it that made it any better than anything my mom would cook at home.

Country club restaurants are always overpriced, and usually have components that are pre-packaged - if not completely pre-packaged. They're all portion controlled, and the main entree ingredient usually comes in frozen.

.

I have no clue what sort of "country club" you're speaking of, but I can assure you, the country clubs I belong to and have belonged to, don't plate anything that was "pre-packaged" and their food rivals the finest restaurants in the area. When you're paying your Chef $100K+, you' better be serving good food.

The are country clubs and there are Country Clubs.

[Garywt]

I was just going by the ratings of Village restaurants based on reviews. Red Sauce is #1 and Glenview is #2. As for your list:

[QUOTE=JSR22;2160256]The best restaurants in TV in alphabetical order:
Blue Fin never been, don’t like the menu
Bone Fish never been
Coastal Del Mar new so have not been yet
Chop House do not like, will not return
Harvest never been, don’t like the menu
Havana been once, it was fine
Lopez never been, will try at some point
Mezza Luna been once and it was good
Palmer never been, not sure if I’ll try, heard there is a dress code
Prima never been, will try at some point
Glenview and Red Sauce are average at best, maybe but we like them and as said ranked 1 and 2.

[Garywt]

What source are you using for your ratings? Neither of these two are any where near the top according to Yelp.

TripAdvisor which is the only site I go by.

[Garywt]

They are not near the top. We eat dinner out 3 to 4 times a week. They are not in our rotation.

Red Sauce, Glenview, Back Porch are probably our most visited. We also go to Belle Glade and friends like Codys in Brownwood so we go there is they want to.

Glenview has an excellent Brunch on the weekends.

[Garywt]

Can anyone explain why the country club restaurants are so inferior to chop house in bluefin with the same ownership?

I guess it varies by person. I would pick Glenview or Belle Grade everyday over Chop House or Bluefin.

[asianthree]

I have no clue what sort of "country club" you're speaking of, but I can assure you, the country clubs I belong to and have belonged to, don't plate anything that was "pre-packaged" and their food rivals the finest restaurants in the area. When you're paying your Chef $100K+, you' better be serving good food.

The are country clubs and there are Country Clubs.

So correct, the 3 CC’s we frequent up north, have true chefs, and yes pay scale is $150,000 plus bonus. Not one food item enters their kitchen unless it’s fresh, and most try for locally sourced. Plus your mandatory monthly is usually $600-$800 at restaurants.so nope on prepackaged

[walterray1]

After being in The Villages for almost a year, I had my first dinner at a Country Club, last night.

It sort of reminded me of Howard Johnson's, in the 70's. Dated decor, old silverware, wrapped in a paper napkin ... mashed potatoes, served with an "ice cream scooper". The food was ok, but was more like the kind of food you would find at a casual Mom & Pop restaurant, on a back road somewhere.

Without mentioning the name of which country club I was at, is it reasonable to assume all the country clubs all fairly similar?

Without looking at any other responses I will say this. In the Villages almost a year and never going to a country club restaurant is total BS. Another click bait let's get out the knives. Ok, got me. Happy? Go back in your personal hole.

[Michael 61]

I was just going by the ratings of Village restaurants based on reviews. Red Sauce is #1 and Glenview is #2. As for your list:

[QUOTE=JSR22;2160256]The best restaurants in TV in alphabetical order:
Blue Fin never been, don’t like the menu
Bone Fish never been
Coastal Del Mar new so have not been yet
Chop House do not like, will not return
Harvest never been, don’t like the menu
Havana been once, it was fine
Lopez never been, will try at some point
Mezza Luna been once and it was good
Palmer never been, not sure if I’ll try, heard there is a dress code
Prima never been, will try at some point
Glenview and Red Sauce are average at best, maybe but we like them and as said ranked 1 and 2.

You haven’t given your source of “your reviews” yet - these two places that you like (and that’s fine that you like them) rate mediocre to poor on many social media rating sites, especially Yelp.

[Michael 61]

Sorry - I see your later post where you site Trip Advisor. I’m not a fan of trip advisor, as it will give high ratings to chain restaurants that use Sysco-purchased food. (Think Red Lobster, Chili’s, Outback, Olive Garden, and others). Yelp, IMO and many others, is far more discriminating and reliable for those with a more cultivated palate. That is why you see such low scores for the majority of Villages restaurants on Yelp - with Harvest and the new seafood place in SS being the rare exceptions.

[AZ SLIM]

I have only been here a year. Haven't eaten at any of the Country clubs yet. I see an ad in the paper for 4 of the country clubs (I assume the same owner) that have a weekly special of Seafood Paella. If you are a fan of Paella and have tried this, I would like to hear your opinion.
thanks

[BrianL99]

Without looking at any other responses I will say this. In the Villages almost a year and never going to a country club restaurant is total BS. Another click bait let's get out the knives. Ok, got me. Happy? Go back in your personal hole.

If there is one truism in The Villages, it's that everyone has an opinion or the correct answer and there is no way they'll allow the facts to get in their way.

[BrianL99]

Sorry - I see your later post where you site Trip Advisor. I’m not a fan of trip advisor, as it will give high ratings to chain restaurants that use Sysco-purchased food. (Think Red Lobster, Chili’s, Outback, Olive Garden, and others). Yelp, IMO and many others, is far more discriminating and reliable for those with a more cultivated palate. That is why you see such low scores for the majority of Villages restaurants on Yelp - with Harvest and the new seafood place in SS being the rare exceptions.

You're 100% correct. Trip Advisor is corporate driven, Yelp is consumer driven.

In other words, you can "buy" your way into good reviews on Trip Advisor, you can't on Yelp. The majority of Trip Advisor "reviews" you see, are not based on direct Consumer reviews submitted to TA.

[Koapaka]

I have only been here a year. Haven't eaten at any of the Country clubs yet. I see an ad in the paper for 4 of the country clubs (I assume the same owner) that have a weekly special of Seafood Paella. If you are a fan of Paella and have tried this, I would like to hear your opinion.
thanks

I'm hoping the new seafood place in Spanish Springs might serve it, (have not been yet) but the Paella that WAS served at Bluefin before they lost that particular chef was VERY good. Have not found that to be the case at the currently serving CC's to be something I would order again.

[birdawg]

Decent wedding food. That’s what you get

[La lamy]

I've been extremely satisfied at Lopez restaurant.

[Two Bills]

I've been extremely satisfied at Lopez restaurant.

:shocked: :icon_wink::eclipsee_gold_cup:

[Rwirish]

The restaurants are generally very good and do not resemble Howard Johnsons.

[Glowfromminnesota]

The Legacy Restaurant is very good.

[Kgcetm]

I always say it’s either a SYSCO or Cheney Bros menu

What isn’t?

[msilagy]

What has been missed here is where the customers are originally from? That tells a story in itself. I'm from the Chicago are/suburbs and none of the food in TV compares to what is served there in the mid to higher line restaurants. Not even close. However I travelled for business and I was in a cluster of towns about 4 hours from my home and since I had a substantial allowance for dinner, I asked my offices for the "finest restaurant" in these 3 towns. The answer was Applebees. Got my point?

[WingedFoot78]

Gee! Nobody has praised Bonifay. Blah!

[wsachs]

You think it might be the prices? Lopez and Havana are just great. Check out the parking lot all day, usually full.

[BrianL99]

What has been missed here is where the customers are originally from? That tells a story in itself. I'm from the Chicago are/suburbs and none of the food in TV compares to what is served there in the mid to higher line restaurants. Not even close. However I travelled for business and I was in a cluster of towns about 4 hours from my home and since I had a substantial allowance for dinner, I asked my offices for the "finest restaurant" in these 3 towns. The answer was Applebees. Got my point?

Are you insinuating that this part of Florida, isn't exactly a hotbed of culinary delights?

When I was a little boy, I asked my dad why Howard Johnson's restaurants were in almost every town in the Northeast. He told me they were successful, because they provided exactly what their constituency expected ... "consistent mediocrity".

I'm learning, that in The Villages, one needs to lower their expectations.

[Rodneysblue]

After being in The Villages for almost a year, I had my first dinner at a Country Club, last night.

It sort of reminded me of Howard Johnson's, in the 70's. Dated decor, old silverware, wrapped in a paper napkin ... mashed potatoes, served with an "ice cream scooper". The food was ok, but was more like the kind of food you would find at a casual Mom & Pop restaurant, on a back road somewhere.

Without mentioning the name of which country club I was at, is it reasonable to assume all the country clubs all fairly similar?

No, not the same.

[JSR22]

You think it might be the prices? Lopez and Havana are just great. Check out the parking lot all day, usually full.

I agree. We eat at both of these restaurants frequently and they are always busy. Good food, service and management.

[Chamo]

Everyone is entitled to their own opinion what’s good for you may not be good for me.

[bark4me]

No, I would say each has it's own following..... read restaurant reviews. But don't expect gourmet dining as you would in private country clubs in other areas. Lopez and Havana seem to have the best ratings....
Right you are!

[karenzeee]

They are all different IMO. You just got to try them out. Totally agree Lopez is one of the nicest ones. We also enjoy Glenview. Haven't been to Havana, but going to try them soon after reading how good it is here.

[Nucky]

Come on OP, Orange Blossom C.C. Isn’t really that bad! Lol

[RouseysMom]

Strong flavor profiles is not what you will find at restaurants in TV. In the middle seems to appeal to the broadest customer base. Farmshed had high quality farm to table with high prices and a limited menu and did not make it.
Country clubs could be described as restaurants next to championship golf courses. I enjoy the value and proximity eating in TV but for fine dining I generally leave the bubble.

[sallyg]

Silly that these places are called clubs. Have not been to every "country club", but so far most have been very casual.

[OhioBuckeye]

I agree we really like Lopez, price a little high but good very very good!

[banjobob]

Nope!! try Legacy at Nancy Lopez always great

[paulat585]

What has been missed here is where the customers are originally from? That tells a story in itself. I'm from the Chicago are/suburbs and none of the food in TV compares to what is served there in the mid to higher line restaurants. Not even close. However I travelled for business and I was in a cluster of towns about 4 hours from my home and since I had a substantial allowance for dinner, I asked my offices for the "finest restaurant" in these 3 towns. The answer was Applebees. Got my point?
I lived outside San Francisco for 22 years & agree with you re the point of comparison. Nothing here compares. When I moved back to Ohio I was involved (at a conference) in an icebreaker game where people named their favorite restaurant. Many said "Applebees" or "Bob Evans." I feel like I'm in the same boat here. Most of the restaurants serve dumbed-down cruise liner food. I look at dining out as a social experience here, not a food experience.

[FT9508]

Lopez is the best. Period. Not too long ago Glenview was one of the worse???

[Bob.Betty]

in your opinion!

[retiredguy123]

Silly that these places are called clubs. Have not been to every "country club", but so far most have been very casual.
Yes. They are not country clubs because they are open to the public and there are no members. The only thing to do is to sit down and eat or drink. And, if you don't order something, they will throw you out, just like any other restaurant.

[Steve]

After being in The Villages for almost a year, I had my first dinner at a Country Club, last night.

It sort of reminded me of Howard Johnson's, in the 70's. Dated decor, old silverware, wrapped in a paper napkin ... mashed potatoes, served with an "ice cream scooper". The food was ok, but was more like the kind of food you would find at a casual Mom & Pop restaurant, on a back road somewhere.

Without mentioning the name of which country club I was at, is it reasonable to assume all the country clubs all fairly similar?

The Villages does not have "Country Clubs". They have restaurants with golf courses attached or, depending on your priorities, golf courses with restaurants attached.

But "Country Clubs"? No way.

[bobmarc]

It really comes down to individual tastes and expectations when rating these places. As far as "country clubs", Lopez IMO is by far the best but it depends what you want to spend, the service you expect and the kind of food you are looking for. Mallory, Cane Tierra, GView et al have decent food but are far from fine dining.

[BrianL99]

Come on OP, Orange Blossom C.C. Isn’t really that bad! Lol

I tried the golf course once, that was enough for me. That was my first and last visit to the "Historic Section". Great euphemism they've installed in the hearts and minds of all Villagers.

[Wondering]

After being in The Villages for almost a year, I had my first dinner at a Country Club, last night.

It sort of reminded me of Howard Johnson's, in the 70's. Dated decor, old silverware, wrapped in a paper napkin ... mashed potatoes, served with an "ice cream scooper". The food was ok, but was more like the kind of food you would find at a casual Mom & Pop restaurant, on a back road somewhere.

Without mentioning the name of which country club I was at, is it reasonable to assume all the country clubs all fairly similar?
NO!

[garykoca427@gmail.com]

I agree with most of you that the food in the country club restaurants is fine, but basically mediocre. There are better restaurants in and outside the Villages than the golf course restaurants, in my opinion.

[rickaslin]

And where do you expect restaurants to get their food from , maybe New York or maybe the west coast! Both Syaco and Cheney sell restaurant quality food, I would know since I worked for both.

It sort of reminded me of Howard Johnson's, in the 70's. Dated decor, old silverware, wrapped in a paper napkin ... mashed potatoes, served with an "ice cream scooper". The food was ok, but was more like the kind of food you would find at a casual Mom & Pop restaurant, on a back road somewhere.

Without mentioning the name of which country club I was at, is it reasonable to assume all the country clubs all fairly similar?[/QUOTE]

[Villages Kahuna]

No, not all the same even though many have common ownership. Try Nancy Lopez or Havana.

[Bogie Shooter]

I tried the golf course once, that was enough for me. That was my first and last visit to the "Historic Section". Great euphemism they've installed in the hearts and minds of all Villagers.

Nice cheap shot.

[jmaccallum]

The beer is good at almost all of them! :1rotfl:

[Dlbonivich]

Price

[Joe Mack]

Rating restaurants is all a matter of personal taste. We like BlueFin, Chop House and for lighter fare Wolfgang Pucks bistro is very good. That being said, it's pretty difficult to find any restaurants that can compare with the high end eateries in and around NYC, NJ or Philly for food quality, however the relaxed atmosphere, scenery and friendly people and staff here in the Villages more then make up for any gastronomic short comings.

[billethkid]

Country clubs in name only.

The terms are used very loosely and or not related at all.

Like Motel 6 being a resort!!!

Does not mean they are necessarily bad ......it is just that they are not.

__________________________________________

:censored:

[TomPerry]

Seems a lot of people are comparing Country Clubs and their restaurants in The Villages with their Country Club up North. In my opinion, that’s an unrealistic comparison!

There are 13 country clubs in TV (11 with restaurants), all owned by the TV with restaurants operated as concessions. These country clubs are servicing 140,000 people in one community. Up North, communities may have a few golf courses and one or maybe two Country Clubs. Usually northern Country Clubs are considered “exclusive “ as they charge an initiation fee and fairly high annual dues and require a minimum monthly restaurant charge (one person here said his club had a monthly minimum of $600 - $800).

In my opinion, to expect the TV Country Clubs and their restaurants to compare to an Exclusive Country Club up North is unrealistic! Get Real!

[Bogie Shooter]

Seems a lot of people are comparing Country Clubs and their restaurants in The Villages with their Country Club up North. In my opinion, that’s an unrealistic comparison!

There are 13 country clubs in TV (11 with restaurants), all owned by the TV with restaurants operated as concessions. These country clubs are servicing 140,000 people in one community. Up North, communities may have a few golf courses and one or maybe two Country Clubs. Usually northern Country Clubs are considered “exclusive “ as they charge an initiation fee and fairly high annual dues and require a minimum monthly restaurant charge (one person here said his club had a monthly minimum of $600 - $800).

In my opinion, to expect the TV Country Clubs and their restaurants to compare to an Exclusive Country Club up North is unrealistic! Get Real!

It’s refreshing to read a common sense post once in a while.:)

[Javin53]

Wow....did that open a can if beans.
Haha

[nhtexasrn]

Your best may not be someone else's best. Your list is your opinion. Not mine.

[flsteve]

I was just going by the ratings of Village restaurants based on reviews. Red Sauce is #1 and Glenview is #2. As for your list:

[QUOTE=JSR22;2160256]The best restaurants in TV in alphabetical order:
Blue Fin never been, don’t like the menu
Bone Fish never been
Coastal Del Mar new so have not been yet
Chop House do not like, will not return
Harvest never been, don’t like the menu
Havana been once, it was fine
Lopez never been, will try at some point
Mezza Luna been once and it was good
Palmer never been, not sure if I’ll try, heard there is a dress code
Prima never been, will try at some point
Glenview and Red Sauce are average at best, maybe but we like them and as said ranked 1 and 2.

Agree with your list, basically. many restaurants are good. Good service, nice presentation, nice atmosphere, higher prices. A "Best" restaurant involves all of these items, but if you are judging strictly by the food/presentation itself, we have found nothing as good as Palmer. Not cheap. I think that cost is why Lopez constantly comes up in front of Palmer. I don't understand that. You will definitely pay more at Palmer, but the food is never less than an "A" rating in my judgement.

The lobster bisque is the best we have had anywhere. Usually big chunks of lobster in it and a taste that you will remember months and years after having it (all visiting friends anticipate it when they return). My favorite steak is the Filet Oscar. I get the small size with a cup of lobster bisque and a Cabernet Sauvignon. If you want to have the best atmosphere, ask for table 43 near the patio window (4 persons). They have 5 chefs there and I have spoken with a couple of them after eating. There is also a special happy hour menu with about 5-7 items or so at the bar (again, I am talking FOOD here and not other things) that are always plated-up nicely (you eat with your eyes first!) and have ALWAYS been delicious to my wife and I after more than a year of going there.

IMHO, Palmer is very under-rated. I would love it if OP tried Palmer Legends and then reported back on what they think! :)

[JSR22]

[QUOTE=Garywt;2160305]I was just going by the ratings of Village restaurants based on reviews. Red Sauce is #1 and Glenview is #2. As for your list:



Agree with your list, basically. many restaurants are good. Good service, nice presentation, nice atmosphere, higher prices. A "Best" restaurant involves all of these items, but if you are judging strictly by the food/presentation itself, we have found nothing as good as Palmer. Not cheap. I think that cost is why Lopez constantly comes up in front of Palmer. I don't understand that. You will definitely pay more at Palmer, but the food is never less than an "A" rating in my judgement.

The lobster bisque is the best we have had anywhere. Usually big chunks of lobster in it and a taste that you will remember months and years after having it (all visiting friends anticipate it when they return). My favorite steak is the Filet Oscar. I get the small size with a cup of lobster bisque and a Cabernet Sauvignon. If you want to have the best atmosphere, ask for table 43 near the patio window (4 persons). They have 5 chefs there and I have spoken with a couple of them after eating. There is also a special happy hour menu with about 5-7 items or so at the bar (again, I am talking FOOD here and not other things) that are always plated-up nicely (you eat with your eyes first!) and have ALWAYS been delicious to my wife and I after more than a year of going there.

IMHO, Palmer is very under-rated. I would love it if OP tried Palmer Legends and then reported back on what they think! :)

I think Palmer is better than Lopez. Their meat entrees are great. I feel their prices are worth the quality.

[BrianL99]

Seems a lot of people are comparing Country Clubs and their restaurants in The Villages with their Country Club up North. In my opinion, that’s an unrealistic comparison!

There are 13 country clubs in TV (11 with restaurants), all owned by the TV with restaurants operated as concessions. These country clubs are servicing 140,000 people in one community. Up North, communities may have a few golf courses and one or maybe two Country Clubs. Usually northern Country Clubs are considered “exclusive “ as they charge an initiation fee and fairly high annual dues and require a minimum monthly restaurant charge (one person here said his club had a monthly minimum of $600 - $800).

In my opinion, to expect the TV Country Clubs and their restaurants to compare to an Exclusive Country Club up North is unrealistic! Get Real!

A community of 140,000 people, a huge percentage of whom play golf, could certainly support a Country Club or two, that provided a reasonable country club atmosphere and associated services.

I understand that the "country clubs" in The Villages are nothing more than public golf courses with restaurants. That doesn't mean that at least a couple of them, shouldn't consider raising their standards a little and provide a modicum of service, quality and environment, consistent with what most country club members expect. Many residents here, would gladly pay added freight charges.

[RCMill531@comcast.net]

I’ve been to several and they are top notch food and atmosphere.

[maistocars]

Great description from the OP - totally agree. If Lopez is the best, I'm glad I haven't gone to any others - just plain awful. To each his own just like what folks say is the best pizza. Beauty is in the eyes of the beholder or eater in this case.

[jmpalladino]

Can anyone explain why the country club restaurants are so inferior to chop house in bluefin with the same ownership?

Same ownership, however catering to a different clientele. The Country Clubs focused on those that have limited interest in creative meals, but focused on cost, as compared to discriminating clients who are willing to pay more for quality and inspiration in their dining experience. Just compare the menus and you can see for your self.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

I tried the golf course once, that was enough for me. That was my first and last visit to the "Historic Section". Great euphemism they've installed in the hearts and minds of all Villagers.

Nice cheap shot.

Y'know what? As long as it's "good enough" to keep them in business, I'm happy to see most people stay far away. Less crowds, more chairs available at the pool, less having to wait to sit in the hot tub, and less waiting for a table in the restaurant or waiting for your food to come out, or the bartender to make you another drink.

It's not a 4-star restaurant. It's better than mediocre and it's consistent. So anyone who wants to snob up about it being in the Historic Section or be upset that the golf course isn't pristine, enjoy the waiting list at Legacy. While you're waiting to sit, I'll be enjoying my "better than mediocre, consistent" lemon-basil butterfish.

[JMintzer]

After being in The Villages for almost a year, I had my first dinner at a Country Club, last night.

It sort of reminded me of Howard Johnson's, in the 70's. Dated decor, old silverware, wrapped in a paper napkin ... mashed potatoes, served with an "ice cream scooper". The food was ok, but was more like the kind of food you would find at a casual Mom & Pop restaurant, on a back road somewhere.

Without mentioning the name of which country club I was at, is it reasonable to assume all the country clubs all fairly similar?

No, they are quite different... A few are owned by the FMK group (the same people who own Blue Fin, Harvest, the Chop House and the new Costal del Mar). They own Belle Glade, Bonifay, and Evans Prarie. Palmer and Lopez are more "high end"..

Several of them are older (hence the decor) and could use a face lift...

[REDCART]

If you think restaurants in TV are mediocre today let me say from personal experience, they’re better today than they were 5-10 years ago. There’s still a few who’ve managed to stay in business without any improvement, i.e. The Lighthouse, and Cody’s, but I’m sure they also have a following.

[MaryShields]

Totally agree with your ranking!

[BrianL99]

Same ownership, however catering to a different clientele. The Country Clubs focused on those that have limited interest in creative meals, but focused on cost, as compared to discriminating clients who are willing to pay more for quality and inspiration in their dining experience. Just compare the menus and you can see for your self.

If the Chop House & Blue Fin are "quality & inspiration", I'm definitely in the wrong place to find a decent restaurant.

If you think restaurants in TV are mediocre today let me say from personal experience, they’re better today than they were 5-10 years ago. There’s still a few who’ve managed to stay in business without any improvement, i.e. The Lighthouse, and Cody’s, but I’m sure they also have a following.

I had the unfortunate experience of eating at Lighthouse last week. It was not a very pleasant experience. Oh well, now I at least know better.

[sdifede313@aol.com]

After being in The Villages for almost a year, I had my first dinner at a Country Club, last night.

It sort of reminded me of Howard Johnson's, in the 70's. Dated decor, old silverware, wrapped in a paper napkin ... mashed potatoes, served with an "ice cream scooper". The food was ok, but was more like the kind of food you would find at a casual Mom & Pop restaurant, on a back road somewhere.

Without mentioning the name of which country club I was at, is it reasonable to assume all the country clubs all fairly similar?
Thanks for the warning…😳

[Bogie Shooter]

If the Chop House & Blue Fin are "quality & inspiration", I'm definitely in the wrong place to find a decent restaurant.



I had the unfortunate experience of eating at Lighthouse last week. It was not a very pleasant experience. Oh well, now I at least know better.

One could conclude that The Villages was a poor choice for you.

[justjim]

In our fifteen years in TV, Lopez Legacy has consistently been our pick as the best country club restaurant. That said, we will be first to admit that we have limited experience with “fine dining” restaurants. We did belong to a private country club during my working years that was considered the best in a 300,000 population area. BTW, the restaurant was not profitable and was subsidized by the membership.

[rschwan9]

I always say it’s either a SYSCO or Cheney Bros menu
Yup. Or as we call those restaurants;"Distributor Food".

[BrianL99]

[QUOTE=Garywt;2160305]

IMHO, Palmer is very under-rated. I would love it if OP tried Palmer Legends and then reported back on what they think! :)

So based on the request above, I tried Palmer Legends and answered my own question (the original post). No, not all the country clubs are the same.

I got back to The Villages around 7 pm and went to the bar at PL and had their Turkey Dinner. Other than they didn't have Apple Cider (which might just be a New England thing), my dinner was as perfect as a restaurant could make it. Way more than enough food. Turkey was cooked perfectly. Potatoes were excellent. Green beans and stuffing were great. Even the gravy (of which I'm not a fan) was very good.

Service was good, price was reasonable, food was hot ... by far, my best dining experience in the year I've been in The Villages.

[Bogie Shooter]

Without looking at any other responses I will say this. In the Villages almost a year and never going to a country club restaurant is total BS. Another click bait let's get out the knives. Ok, got me. Happy? Go back in your personal hole.

You may be right, read on………….

[flsteve]

[QUOTE=flsteve;2160481]

So based on the request above, I tried Palmer Legends and answered my own question (the original post). No, not all the country clubs are the same.

First the disclaimer, I'm in the business. We have 3 hotels, 2 full-service with restaurants and banquet facilities. We probably served about 1000 Thanksgiving dinners today. I can guarantee, no one who ate our hotels, had a better dinner than I had at Palmer Legends tonight.

I got back to The Villages around 7 pm and went to the bar at PL and had their Turkey Dinner. Other than they didn't have Apple Cider (which might just be a New England thing), my dinner was as perfect as a restaurant could make it. Way more than enough food. Turkey was cooked perfectly. Potatoes were excellent. Green beans and stuffing were great. Even the gravy (of which I'm not a fan) was very good.

Service was good, price was reasonable, food was hot ... by far, my best dining experience in the year I've been in The Villages.

Thanks for answering! I have to admit that every time there is a restaurant related post for good food I am completely perplexed at why Palmer is not listed as the best in The Villages. Part of me wants to keep it quiet in a way so I can still get a seat :) , but another part of me wants to just shout from a rooftop that if you want excellent food with superb service, Palmer is the best place to go.

The cup of lobster bisque with a Filet Oscar and a Cabernet Sauvignon is AMAZING. Escargot, shrimp cocktail...oh dang... I am not kidding when I say that I have never had anything there I would rate less than an "A", and usually an "A+".

[Bogie Shooter]

[QUOTE=BrianL99;2160579]

Thanks for answering! I have to admit that every time there is a restaurant related post for good food I am completely perplexed at why Palmer is not listed as the best in The Villages. Part of me wants to keep it quiet in a way so I can still get a seat :) , but another part of me wants to just shout from a rooftop that if you want excellent food with superb service, Palmer is the best place to go.

The cup of lobster bisque with a Filet Oscar and a Cabernet Sauvignon is AMAZING. Escargot, shrimp cocktail...oh dang... I am not kidding when I say that I have never had anything there I would rate less than an "A", and usually an "A+".

So is it SYSCO or Cheney Bros or somebody else?
Asking for a friend……..

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

The dinner menu at Palmer sounds terrific. My one main criticism has to do with their pushing the "Certified Angus beef" phrase. Most beef sold in restaurants in the USA comes from angus cattle. Angus is the biggest beef cattle breed in the country. There is an actual brand name, called Certified Angus Beef brand - the main standard for that brand is the beef has to be well-marbled, coming from fat cows. That means - corn fed and finished, not grass-fed or finished.

Not that there's anything wrong with corn fed and finished beef - I personally find it tastier and chews better than grass-fed and grass-finished beef, which is gamier because it means leaner cows, less marbling. But the terms are used to sell product, and not really to describe quality. It's a marketing schtick.

Regardless, I'll probably ask hubby to take us there for dinner some night. I like a good shrimp and lobster alfredo.

[KAM+6]

The dinner menu at Palmer sounds terrific. My one main criticism has to do with their pushing the "Certified Angus beef" phrase. Most beef sold in restaurants in the USA comes from angus cattle. Angus is the biggest beef cattle breed in the country. There is an actual brand name, called Certified Angus Beef brand - the main standard for that brand is the beef has to be well-marbled, coming from fat cows. That means - corn fed and finished, not grass-fed or finished.

Not that there's anything wrong with corn fed and finished beef - I personally find it tastier and chews better than grass-fed and grass-finished beef, which is gamier because it means leaner cows, less marbling. But the terms are used to sell product, and not really to describe quality. It's a marketing schtick.

Regardless, I'll probably ask hubby to take us there for dinner some night. I like a good shrimp and lobster alfredo.

Angus is one of the smaller breeds of cattle, not the largest. Cows are female that have had a calf. They would not be sold for prime beef usually utility grade. The reason Angus cattle are popular is because of their smaller head, less problems calfing and their disposition.

[Two Bills]

Angus is one of the smaller breeds of cattle, not the largest. Cows are female that have had a calf. They would not be sold for prime beef usually utility grade. The reason Angus cattle are popular is because of their smaller head, less problems calfing and their disposition.

I think you have misunderstood the ladies post.
Pretty sure lady was referring to Black Angus being the largest breed ie. most popular, majority breed, predominant etc. etc.
As for reference regarding the word 'cow.' Pedantic springs to mind.

[MandoMan]

After being in The Villages for almost a year, I had my first dinner at a Country Club, last night.

It sort of reminded me of Howard Johnson's, in the 70's. Dated decor, old silverware, wrapped in a paper napkin ... mashed potatoes, served with an "ice cream scooper". The food was ok, but was more like the kind of food you would find at a casual Mom & Pop restaurant, on a back road somewhere.

Without mentioning the name of which country club I was at, is it reasonable to assume all the country clubs all fairly similar?

No, it’s not reasonable. There are big variations.

[jakeelin]

After being in The Villages for almost a year, I had my first dinner at a Country Club, last night.

It sort of reminded me of Howard Johnson's, in the 70's. Dated decor, old silverware, wrapped in a paper napkin ... mashed potatoes, served with an "ice cream scooper". The food was ok, but was more like the kind of food you would find at a casual Mom & Pop restaurant, on a back road somewhere.

Without mentioning the name of which country club I was at, is it reasonable to assume all the country clubs all fairly similar?

No they are all not the same. Nancy Lopez and Arnold Palmer are the nicest and most expensive. I ate Thanksgiving dinner at a country club and they used in ice cream scoop for the dressing and did not include desert in the meal. But the service was great.
:)

[BrianL99]

No they are all not the same. Nancy Lopez and Arnold Palmer are the nicest and most expensive. I ate Thanksgiving dinner at a country club and they used in ice cream scoop for the dressing and did not include desert in the meal. But the service was great.
:)

I don't mind the "ice cream scoop" for stuffing/dressing, that's a functional decision. I just get quivers when an ice cream scoop is used for mashed potatoes ... which usually means, they're using "fake" mashed potatoes and need scoop, because they're too sticky!

[Jcicales]

I was just going by the ratings of Village restaurants based on reviews. Red Sauce is #1 and Glenview is #2. As for your list:

[QUOTE=JSR22;2160256]The best restaurants in TV in alphabetical order:
Blue Fin never been, don’t like the menu
Bone Fish never been
Coastal Del Mar new so have not been yet
Chop House do not like, will not return
Harvest never been, don’t like the menu
Havana been once, it was fine
Lopez never been, will try at some point
Mezza Luna been once and it was good
Palmer never been, not sure if I’ll try, heard there is a dress code
Prima never been, will try at some point
Glenview and Red Sauce are average at best, maybe but we like them and as said ranked 1 and 2.
Wow- maybe you need to get out a little to our local restaurants and support them- good or bad. Enjoy

[ChicagoNative]

The Villages has “country clubs” just like they are a “gated community”, and just like the trailer parks are “the historic section”. All descriptors are using language to fancy up one’s expectations of exclusivity. Good marketing, but not really true.

Restaurant review sites should also be taken with a block of salt. If a business pays to advertise on Yelp, suddenly their good reviews appear at the top of a search while bad get pushed out of sight. (Kinda like google and Facebook) Lots of shills on yelp that requires one to really read between the lines.

Remember that a nice atmosphere with high prices doesn’t necessarily translate to good food. That said, I’ll add my two cents and say that for the “country clubs”, our faves are Lopez Legacy and Havana.

[itsanne]

Not sure what people are looking for - Lopez has a beautiful porch over looking the golf course and the bar area has an expensive look to it and the food and service are normally above average. Apparently, this is not good enough for some folks.
The problem in the villages is the lack of variation. No Spanish, Portuguese, Chinese, Greek or other variations.

[TomPerry]

A community of 140,000 people, a huge percentage of whom play golf, could certainly support a Country Club or two, that provided a reasonable country club atmosphere and associated services.

I understand that the "country clubs" in The Villages are nothing more than public golf courses with restaurants. That doesn't mean that at least a couple of them, shouldn't consider raising their standards a little and provide a modicum of service, quality and environment, consistent with what most country club members expect. Many residents here, would gladly pay added freight charges.
Sounds like a a good idea! Why don’t you buy one from The Villages Developer and upgrade it to an exclusive country club?

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Angus is one of the smaller breeds of cattle, not the largest. Cows are female that have had a calf. They would not be sold for prime beef usually utility grade. The reason Angus cattle are popular is because of their smaller head, less problems calfing and their disposition.

I'm not talking about their physical size. I'm talking about the population. There are more of "angus" cattle in the country than any other breed. It's a larger population. Not a larger sized individual animal.

And yes they do get fattened up, that's one of the reasons why they taste so good.

[BrianL99]

Sounds like a a good idea! Why don’t you buy one from The Villages Developer and upgrade it to an exclusive country club?

They're not interested in selling. That doesn't meet their business model nor serve their interests.

Just speculation, but I wouldn't be surprised if they sold off the entire package of "Championship Courses", sometime in the future. It seems their business model has changed from being a "golf community/lifestyle developer" to a "tract housing developer" ...witness the Fenney area.

[CoachKandSportsguy]

the scales are either relative or absolute

From the absolute point of view, we didn't buy in TV for the restaurants, our doctors' would disapprove and simply not of a significance in out daily lives. Between Coachk and I our travels have been extensive, however, having expectations of rural FL with retirees having global cuisines reachable by golf cart is unrealistic. That will take generations, and will come once the pandemic's economic impacts are long gone, and the boomer generation has passed, there will be more economic support for small ethnic food restaurants. Can't quite understand why "Hard Apple Cider" isn't sold anywhere in TV. . . :mad: must be that 12 generations of New England in my blood. :chilout: The other point is that FL is surrounded by the south, but not the south, as no one would live in FL in today's scale without air conditioning. . so this rural area is mostly snowbirds settled only recently as a planned community by a cattle rancher. . . not exactly high expectations of global cuisine. . .

from a relative point of view, everyone is different, with different price points and lifestyles, but for the life of me, I can't understand people wanting more fast food restaurants here, other than for personal price points of cheap . .

not a restaurant critic guy

[Papa_lecki]

Sounds like a a good idea! Why don’t you buy one from The Villages Developer and upgrade it to an exclusive country club?

I actually considered this… Here’s why it probably wouldn’t work here.

1) part of the appeal of The VIllages vs other spots in FLA is the variety of championship courses vs a place like Naples where you join a club and your golf and social life revolves around 1 country club
2) in a typical CC, Food and Beverage are usually subsidized by dues, F&B subsidies would be even more magnified in with seasonal members
3) a villager would want to have 2/3/4 of their friends join, so they eat and dine together; probably won’t happen
4) the current championship courses provide enough of a CC experience (handicapping, tournaments, etc) so not make a private club appealing
5) you dont need the locker room or club storage experience here, you leave your home in cart, shoes on, clubs on carts, etc
6) it would only work at a place like Palmer, that has a driving range.
7) snow birds would want a seasonal membership, which would negatively impact the financials.
8) a country clubs offers a lifestyle, other activities (tennis/pool/pickle/fitness/cards/etc) - this is not needed here, The Villages offers those amenities

And probably a bunch more reasons. There’s a reason there’s not a country club right outside the bubble.

[BrianL99]

I actually considered this… Here’s why it probably wouldn’t work here.

1) part of the appeal of The VIllages vs other spots in FLA is the variety of championship courses vs a place like Naples where you join a club and your golf and social life revolves around 1 country club
2) in a typical CC, Food and Beverage are usually subsidized by dues, F&B subsidies would be even more magnified in with seasonal members
3) a villager would want to have 2/3/4 of their friends join, so they eat and dine together; probably won’t happen
4) the current championship courses provide enough of a CC experience (handicapping, tournaments, etc) so not make a private club appealing
5) you dont need the locker room or club storage experience here, you leave your home in cart, shoes on, clubs on carts, etc
6) it would only work at a place like Palmer, that has a driving range.
7) snow birds would want a seasonal membership, which would negatively impact the financials.
8) a country clubs offers a lifestyle, other activities (tennis/pool/pickle/fitness/cards/etc) - this is not needed here, The Villages offers those amenities

And probably a bunch more reasons. There’s a reason there’s not a country club right outside the bubble.

Most of my northern friends are in Naples. I don't think there's another part of the country, with more golf courses than Naples and surely there isn't anyplace with more Private Clubs available. Most of my friends (seasonal) have invested over $50,000 in Initiation Dues & pay between $8,000 - $12,000 per year for membership, even though they're in Naples less than 6 months/year. They use the club for nothing but golf. Nothing else is of any interest to them. They have little or no social interaction with the club or members.

I think a similar (somewhat downscaled) would be hugely successful in The Villages, but as I said, it doesn't coincide with the Developer's business model and if there's one truism about the Morse's ... they don't like competition.

[Garywt]

I did list TripAdvisor as the site I go by.

[QUOTE=Garywt;2160305]I was just going by the ratings of Village restaurants based on reviews. Red Sauce is #1 and Glenview is #2. As for your list:



You haven’t given your source of “your reviews” yet - these two places that you like (and that’s fine that you like them) rate mediocre to poor on many social media rating sites, especially Yelp.

[Garywt]

You're 100% correct. Trip Advisor is corporate driven, Yelp is consumer driven.

In other words, you can "buy" your way into good reviews on Trip Advisor, you can't on Yelp. The majority of Trip Advisor "reviews" you see, are not based on direct Consumer reviews submitted to TA.

The thing I question about Yelp, the decide what reviews they want posted and what the don’t want posted which to me is too selective.

[Garywt]

What has been missed here is where the customers are originally from? That tells a story in itself. I'm from the Chicago are/suburbs and none of the food in TV compares to what is served there in the mid to higher line restaurants. Not even close. However I travelled for business and I was in a cluster of towns about 4 hours from my home and since I had a substantial allowance for dinner, I asked my offices for the "finest restaurant" in these 3 towns. The answer was Applebees. Got my point?

I agree with you. I have never found food anywhere in Florida that can compete with food in and around Boston. Just the fact the Florida doesn’t know what steak tips are tells me a lot.

[Garywt]

If the Chop House & Blue Fin are "quality & inspiration", I'm definitely in the wrong place to find a decent restaurant.



I had the unfortunate experience of eating at Lighthouse last week. It was not a very pleasant experience. Oh well, now I at least know better.

All of Florida could be a disappointment. The food is not as good as other states.

[Garywt]

[QUOTE=Garywt;2160305]I was just going by the ratings of Village restaurants based on reviews. Red Sauce is #1 and Glenview is #2. As for your list:


Wow- maybe you need to get out a little to our local restaurants and support them- good or bad. Enjoy

I get out to restaurants in the Villages. Not sure what your definition of local restaurants is.

[Two Bills]

I actually considered this… Here’s why it probably wouldn’t work here.

1) part of the appeal of The VIllages vs other spots in FLA is the variety of championship courses vs a place like Naples where you join a club and your golf and social life revolves around 1 country club
2) in a typical CC, Food and Beverage are usually subsidized by dues, F&B subsidies would be even more magnified in with seasonal members
3) a villager would want to have 2/3/4 of their friends join, so they eat and dine together; probably won’t happen
4) the current championship courses provide enough of a CC experience (handicapping, tournaments, etc) so not make a private club appealing
5) you dont need the locker room or club storage experience here, you leave your home in cart, shoes on, clubs on carts, etc
6) it would only work at a place like Palmer, that has a driving range.
7) snow birds would want a seasonal membership, which would negatively impact the financials.
8) a country clubs offers a lifestyle, other activities (tennis/pool/pickle/fitness/cards/etc) - this is not needed here, The Villages offers those amenities

And probably a bunch more reasons. There’s a reason there’s not a country club right outside the bubble.

...............and most important, the vast majority of villagers would not part with the $$$$!

[Jimmy1969]

...............and most important, the vast majority of villagers would not part with the $$$$!

Speaking of money and the most devisive subject in American culinary art............Let's talk PIZZA.
We like the thin crust pies at Piesannos are very good and available in sizes too to serve 1 to 4. The salads are large and fresh Large tasty portions. $$ price range. Google Review of (777) is 4.5 ok. lokking to hear from the pizza experts.

[golfing eagles]

All of Florida could be a disappointment. The food is not as good as other states.

Which other states????? Personally, I'm not a big fan of North Dakota cuisine:1rotfl:1rotfl::1rotfl:

[golfing eagles]

Speaking of money and the most devisive subject in American culinary art............Let's talk PIZZA.
We like the thin crust pies at Piesannos are very good and available in sizes too to serve 1 to 4. The salads are large and fresh Large tasty portions. $$ price range. Google Review of (777) is 4.5 ok. lokking to hear from the pizza experts.

Ray's pizza, 3rd Ave and 78th St., everything else is second best.

[BrianL99]

I agree with you. I have never found food anywhere in Florida that can compete with food in and around Boston. Just the fact the Florida doesn’t know what steak tips are tells me a lot.

"Steak Tips" have always been a New England only product. Over the last few years they've spread a bit on the East Coast, but most of the country never heard of them and wouldn't be able to find them at a store or butcher.

[JMintzer]

Ray's pizza, 3rd Ave and 78th St., everything else is second best.

According to Santa (in the movie "Elf"), the real one's on 11th...

"There are, like, 30 Ray's Pizzas. They all claim to be the original, but the real one's on 11th."

[CoachKandSportsguy]

Most of my friends (seasonal) have invested over $50,000 in Initiation Dues & pay between $8,000 - $12,000 per year for membership, even though they're in Naples less than 6 months/year. They use the club for nothing but golf.



That is a completely different socio economic strata than The Villages. The Villages started out as not much more than a mobile home park, and Naples did not start out that way. The villages is in rural FL, Naples is coastal FL, which is more expensive and way older and more developed than 30 year old TV. . .

The comparison is orapples, oranges and apples. Something tells me you are in the wrong place, or have unrealistic expectations trying to keep up with your other friends. . .

just my intuitive interpretation of the words I am reading.

[JMintzer]

All of Florida could be a disappointment. The food is not as good as other states.

"All"?

There are PLENTY of great restaurants in South Florida, from Palm Beach, down to Miami...

Naples has some great places as well...

[Bogie Shooter]

That is a completely different socio economic strata than The Villages. The Villages started out as not much more than a mobile home park, and Naples did not start out that way. The villages is in rural FL, Naples is coastal FL, which is more expensive and way older and more developed than 30 year old TV. . .

The comparison is orapples, oranges and apples. Something tells me you are in the wrong place, or have unrealistic expectations trying to keep up with your other friends. . .

just my intuitive interpretation of the words I am reading.
:boom:

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

All of Florida could be a disappointment. The food is not as good as other states.

The taqueria where I get my carne asada tacos every few weeks is just as good as the one back up north.

The Indian restaurant in Mt. Dora that I like, is just as good as the one back north (though they don't give me a gulab jamun with my lunch at no extra charge, I have to order it and pay extra).

The knishes at the Jewish deli where my parents live are just as good as the M&T used to sell up north.

I've never eaten in the Tampa area but I'm told there's pizza there just as good as New Haven pizza. I doubt it, but I'll keep an open mind and give it a try next time I'm in Tampa.

[Garywt]

Which other states????? Personally, I'm not a big fan of North Dakota cuisine:1rotfl:1rotfl::1rotfl:

My home state of Massachusetts is real good as is Maine and New Hampshire.

[Garywt]

"Steak Tips" have always been a New England only product. Over the last few years they've spread a bit on the East Coast, but most of the country never heard of them and wouldn't be able to find them at a store or butcher.

This is a crying shame. Steak tips are the best.

[Garywt]

"All"?

There are PLENTY of great restaurants in South Florida, from Palm Beach, down to Miami...

Naples has some great places as well...

Granted I have not eaten in every restaurant in Florida but what I have had over the years cannot compete. That said I do remember the best bacon cheddar burger and fries I had one night about midnight after not eating since breakfast at the Biltmore Coral Gables FL.

[Garywt]

The taqueria where I get my carne asada tacos every few weeks is just as good as the one back up north.

The Indian restaurant in Mt. Dora that I like, is just as good as the one back north (though they don't give me a gulab jamun with my lunch at no extra charge, I have to order it and pay extra).

The knishes at the Jewish deli where my parents live are just as good as the M&T used to sell up north.

I've never eaten in the Tampa area but I'm told there's pizza there just as good as New Haven pizza. I doubt it, but I'll keep an open mind and give it a try next time I'm in Tampa.

Some issues or non issues is that we all eat differently and eat different things. I don’t like tacos, have never eaten in an Indian restaurant and basically would not a know a knish if I tripped on one. Pizza is hit or miss but for the most part I can get through any pizza once. The one pizza I don’t like is Bravo Pizza. Anyway, happy eating.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Some issues or non issues is that we all eat differently and eat different things. I don’t like tacos, have never eaten in an Indian restaurant and basically would not a know a knish if I tripped on one. Pizza is hit or miss but for the most part I can get through any pizza once. The one pizza I don’t like is Bravo Pizza. Anyway, happy eating.

Giovanni's at Southern Trace next to Publix used to be good but they sold and the new owners changed the recipe. Not impressed anymore. The good news, is they still own Gio's on 301, and they still make excellent apizza there. It's not AS thin as New York style, not AS bubble-crusted and misshapen as New Haven style (and doesn't have cornmeal on the bottom), and not AS perfectly cheesed as North End style. But it's sort of a mishmosh between the three and very tasty.

[CoachKandSportsguy]

My home state of Massachusetts is real good as is Maine and New Hampshire.

Long Live Tribalism! Long Live Massholes! Viva La TitleTown!

[TomPerry]

They're not interested in selling. That doesn't meet their business model nor serve their interests.

Just speculation, but I wouldn't be surprised if they sold off the entire package of "Championship Courses", sometime in the future. It seems their business model has changed from being a "golf community/lifestyle developer" to a "tract housing developer" ...witness the Fenney area.
It appears you haven’t witnessed the lifestyle south of SR44. Perhaps you can buy some land outside TV and develop your own Exclusive Country Club and make a fortune! People disappointed in TV Country Clubs and their Restaurants would flock to it, right?

[charlieo1126@gmail.com]

Long Live Tribalism! Long Live Massholes! Viva La TitleTown!on a separate note all you mass guys, today is the 80 th anniversary of the Cocoanut Grove fire , where almost 500 people died, including my fathers cousin

[eremite06]

Sounds about right. I mentioned Howard Johnson's and I was a "cook" there, when I was in High School. "Chefs"? "Cooks"? We were "food warmers". I think Howard Johnson's was the first restaurant to put Microwave Ovens in use ... sure made our jobs in the kitchen, a lot easier.
I was a dishwasher at HOJO's as a teen on the Pennsylvania turnpike.

[PugMom]

No, they are quite different... A few are owned by the FMK group (the same people who own Blue Fin, Harvest, the Chop House and the new Costal del Mar). They own Belle Glade, Bonifay, and Evans Prarie. Palmer and Lopez are more "high end"..

Several of them are older (hence the decor) and could use a face lift...

bonifay is my favorite, the setting is lovely & food is just right. it takes a few extra minutes to get there, but we enjoy it