Upscale restaurant

[Golfer222]

What are recommendation for an upscale restaurant in or near the villages for a special occasion

[Bill14564]

What are recommendation for an upscale restaurant in or near the villages for a special occasion

You'll need to define "near" and then possibly compromise depending on how upscale you would like to get.

Not my style so I don't have any personal recommendations. You might take a look at the Villages Gourmet Club (https://thevillagesgourmetclub.com/)site for listings and reviews of many restaurants in the area.

[Bilyclub]

Nothing really upscale here, except the prices. Go to Orlando.

[retiredguy123]

The Chop House is the only restaurant that I would suggest. I don't like the Rose Plantation, and the other upscale places are too noisy.

[It's Hot There]

Mark's Prime Steakhouse in Ocala

[Gpsma]

The Chop House is the only restaurant that I would suggest. I don't like the Rose Plantation, and the other upscale places are too noisy.

What is it about the Rose Plantation that you dont like?

[retiredguy123]

What is it about the Rose Plantation that you dont like?
The only time I was there, I had to sit on the porch, where the tables were too close together. I also don't like that they have a dress code, and I think it is overpriced. But, that is just my opinion. I know a lot of people like it.

[Stu from NYC]

Marks prime excellent for steak

[JSR22]

Stirrups at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala s the most upscale restaurant in the area. Excellent food and service.

[Chi-Town]

There are no upscale restaurants in The Villages. Mark's Prime Steakhouse in Ocala is the closest. Ask for a booth.

[LuvNH]

There are no upscale restaurants in The Villages. Mark's Prime Steakhouse in Ocala is the closest. Ask for a booth.

What a sad, but true, statement. With the number of people living here now you would have thought we could have supported an upscale eatery.

[poromo]

Please let me know what is considered upscale. I realize it has different definitions for different people. Personally, if the bill for 2 at the end of the night is less than $1,000 I do not consider the restaurant "upscale".

[JGVillages]

What a sad, but true, statement. With the number of people living here now you would have thought we could have supported an upscale eatery.

Lopez, Chop House, Prime Steakhouse, and others, are all excellent restaurants that offer great food. I’ve been to Mark’s , Harry’s and a few others in Orlando. For me The Villages Restaurants mentioned offer as good a quality of food as the “upscale”, or as I prefer to call “overpriced”restaurants outside the compound. If our market here would be attractive for a so called ”upscale” restaurant the why isn’t one here???

[ThirdOfFive]

If "quality" is being seen as approximately equal to "upscale", then I'd recommend Lopez Legacy here in TV. Excellent service, ample choices of well-prepared dishes, good drink service. Only downside is the small serving area (if you're not outside) which does tend to get noisy. $$$. Other possibilities include Bluefin and (slightly down on the scale) Coastal Del Mar.

My personal opinion of Chop House: their quality overall does not match their "upscale" pricing.

[Golfer222]

Please let me know what is considered upscale. I realize it has different definitions for different people. Personally, if the bill for 2 at the end of the night is less than $1,000 I do not consider the restaurant "upscale".
upscale

2 of 3
verb
upscaled; upscaling; upscales
transitive verb

1
: to make (something) more appealing to affluent consumers : to make (something) more upscale

Hope that helps you

[FFlank]

Please let me know what is considered upscale. I realize it has different definitions for different people. Personally, if the bill for 2 at the end of the night is less than $1,000 I do not consider the restaurant "upscale".

Yikes! I guess by this definition I’ve never been to an “upscale” restaurant 😂

[oldtimes]

Stirrups at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala s the most upscale restaurant in the area. Excellent food and service.

:agree:

[kingofbeer]

upscale

2 of 3
verb
upscaled; upscaling; upscales
transitive verb

1
: to make (something) more appealing to affluent consumers : to make (something) more upscale

Hope that helps you
Harvest in Brownwood Square

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

upscale

2 of 3
verb
upscaled; upscaling; upscales
transitive verb

1
: to make (something) more appealing to affluent consumers : to make (something) more upscale

Hope that helps you

(see also: pretentious)

Fixed that for ya.


My grandparents were affluent and their favorite restaurant was Jimmy's of Savin Rock. It was basically a seafood and hotdog shack at the edge of the Savin Rock amusement park (which no longer exists). The restaurant is now an enclosed restaurant with full waiter service and the prices have definitely gone up, but it's not a white tablecloth and waiters with white gloves kind of place. They still do a thriving take-out business.

[kkingston57]

Please let me know what is considered upscale. I realize it has different definitions for different people. Personally, if the bill for 2 at the end of the night is less than $1,000 I do not consider the restaurant "upscale".

Berns in Tampa will cost you a lot less than 1K unless you buy a very expensive wine(subjective as to how good it is) and is considered upscale.

[Stu from NYC]

Berns in Tampa will cost you a lot less than 1K unless you buy a very expensive wine(subjective as to how good it is) and is considered upscale.

How far in advance do you need reservations?

[JoMar]

The only time I was there, I had to sit on the porch, where the tables were too close together. I also don't like that they have a dress code, and I think it is overpriced. But, that is just my opinion. I know a lot of people like it.

Dress codes are what helps make upscale upscale. They are dumbing down so many of what at one time was special to attract the masses and all that takes a hit on quality. Overpriced says a lot of what some consider upscale.

[Sensei]

Turners in Leesburg. Parties of four or fewer.

[Bhighley]

What are recommendation for an upscale restaurant in or near the villages for a special occasion

Orlando or Tampa/St Pete is my recommendation. There's nothing "upscale" in the Villages yet.

[Aviva]

You must have an alcohol problem or spend a lot on specialty champagne or wine. I don't know what. I would consider myself a food snob and have eaten at some of the finest restaurants even Michelin star in Vegas,LA NY,Paris Toronto. I've never spent $1,000 on a meal for two people. I'd have to try really hard and order way too much to accomplish that end.

Please let me know what is considered upscale. I realize it has different definitions for different people. Personally, if the bill for 2 at the end of the night is less than $1,000 I do not consider the restaurant "upscale".

[eeroger]

What are recommendation for an upscale restaurant in or near the villages for a special occasion

After all the stupid abs insulting reply, I would definitely recommend The Rose Plantation. We make early dinner reservations so we can sit on the lovely porch. The service and food is impeccable, so we don't mind spending a little more for anniversary, birthday, or when we gave guests in town. They do have a dress code for men - slacks & a collared shirt. Not too much to ask.

[Bruce Carlson]

Bern's Steakhouse in Tampa has always been our "upscale' place to go.

[dcammel]

The Chop House is the only restaurant that I would suggest. I don't like the Rose Plantation, and the other upscale places are too noisy.
Try Oscar-Penn in Lecanto. Closed Sun-Mon and suggest reservations. We also like Boat House in Disney Springs. Mark Prime in Ocala also nice.

[bowlingal]

Ocala for upscale. There is a restaurant at the horse facility ,the equestrian center ( don't remember the name). If you truly want upscale, look into it.

[PVR]

Prima is way better. Consistently good. Not so at Chop House.

[alncon2]

What are recommendation for an upscale restaurant in or near the villages for a special occasion

Oscar Penns - Inverness
The Goblin Market - Mt. Dora
Ivy On the Square - Ocala

[r.m.kelly@comcast.net]

What are recommendation for an upscale restaurant in or near the villages for a special occasion
Prime 3, downtown Leesburg.

[Rzepecki]

Marks prime excellent for steak

And they have great servers. Old fashion, upscale service. Love it for a special occasion!

[oldtimes]

You must have an alcohol problem or spend a lot on specialty champagne or wine. I don't know what. I would consider myself a food snob and have eaten at some of the finest restaurants even Michelin star in Vegas,LA NY,Paris Toronto. I've never spent $1,000 on a meal for two people. I'd have to try really hard and order way too much to accomplish that end.

I was thinking that too. We ate at The Knife and Spoon, a Michelin star restaurant at the Ritz, and it was not even close to that.

[kdolence]

I recommend Costal Del Mar in Spanish Springs. Food and atmosphere is excellent.

[Paula]

Not sure what you mean by upscale, but thinking that you're looking for a grownup restaurant that's got great food and isn't noisy. So check out La Cuisine in Ocala.

[JudyLife]

Wolfgang Puck at The Brownwood Hotel.

[Stu from NYC]

Wolfgang Puck at The Brownwood Hotel.

Not from what we have heard.

[hosegooseman]

What are recommendation for an upscale restaurant in or near the villages for a special occasion

Chop House in Lake Sumter

Blue Fin in Brownwood

Wolfgang Puck in the Brownwood area too

[Miss B GA]

Stirrups at the Equestrian Center in Ocala and Land Remembered at the Rosen Shingle Creek Hotel in Orlando are the two most upscale restaurants I would recommend. Expensive but excellent.

[retiredguy123]

Prime 3, downtown Leesburg.
Personally, I think an upscale steak restaurant should serve a USDA Prime filet mignon. But, you can't get one at Prime 3, Mark's, or the Chop House. If you really want an upscale steak restaurant, you need to go to Ruth Chris near Orlando. All of their beef is USDA Prime. Although, the other three restaurants are good, I probably wouldn't order a steak because it wouldn't be as good as the steaks you can buy at Publix.

[LuvNH]

Goblin Market in Mt. Dora, this is the link to their menu Just a moment... (https://www.goblinmarketrestaurant.com/) is very good. Great food, great ambiance, excellent wait staff, quiet and genteel. It is located down a narrow back street off Donnelly St.

$$$ not inexpensive, but worth a try.

[Roy&Kath]

What are recommendation for an upscale restaurant in or near the villages for a special occasion
Turner’s in Leesburg is outstanding.

[FredJacobs]

What are recommendation for an upscale restaurant in or near the villages for a special occasion

High prices do not make a restaurant "upscale." There is the quality of the food, the quality of the ambiance, the quality of the service, etc.

In Ocala, there is a family run French restaurant - La Cuisine.

In Silver Springs, I recommend Mesa de Notte - an Italian restaurant with a slight latin accent.

[dtennent]

Here is another vote for Prime 3 in Leesburg. Our experience at Wolfgang Puck has been variable.

[HoosierPa]

What are recommendation for an upscale restaurant in or near the villages for a special occasion

Paulie’s Oaks on 44

352-748-0050

Awesome food and service

[msmr23@gmail.com]

What are recommendation for an upscale restaurant in or near the villages for a special occasion Mission Inn in Howie in the Hills is our favorite.

[pauld315]

What are recommendation for an upscale restaurant in or near the villages for a special occasion

Mark's Prime, Stirrup's (at World Equestrian Center) and Katya in Ocala

Legacy at Lopez GC in The Villages

[Pennyt]

Berns in Tampa will cost you a lot less than 1K unless you buy a very expensive wine(subjective as to how good it is) and is considered upscale.
Yes, and be sure to reserve the dessert room, too. Also ask for a tour of the kitchen and wine cellar! Fantastic!!

[Mellow]

If you’re talking no shorts etc., you won’t find this in The Villages

[BrianL99]

Please let me know what is considered upscale. I realize it has different definitions for different people. Personally, if the bill for 2 at the end of the night is less than $1,000 I do not consider the restaurant "upscale".

Must be a typo.

At the most expensive restaurants in the United States, the average is less than $300/person.

... but everyone on this site will think you're cool, because you're fancier than everyone else.

10 Most Expensive Restaurants In The United States | SecretMenus (https://secretmenus.com/10-expensive-restaurants-united-states/)

[Brynnie]

Though it’s a national chain, the Capital Grille in Orlando and Tampa is much more “upscale” than any restaurant here in The Villages. Service is impeccable, food is consistently delicious and well prepared, and it’s worth the price—unlike the food at the Rose Plantation and some of the other Villages restaurants mentioned here. We go there for all our special occasions. Highly recommend.


QUOTE=kdolence;2259670]I recommend Costal Del Mar in Spanish Springs. Food and atmosphere is excellent.[/QUOTE]

[kkingston57]

If you’re talking no shorts etc., you won’t find this in The Villages

Upscale/shorts Do not equate.

[Salty Dog]

I can get a great meal on a Princess cruise at the Chef's Table for only $100 each. The crystal curtain around the circular table cost 3 million alone. The flatware is gold. Some paired drinks are included for no additional cost...

[cthherod@gmail.com]

What are recommendation for an upscale restaurant in or near the villages for a special occasion

Try Goblin Market in Mt. Dora, Le Cuisine in Ocala, Bern’s Steakhouse in Tampa, The Chef’s Table in Winter Garden. All require reservations. Paulie’s at the Oaks on 44 (Continental CC) is the best just outside TV. We’ve found Nancy Lopez in TV to be good. Happy dining!

[defrey12]

Nothing really upscale here, except the prices. Go to Orlando.

…or Tampa. Some really nice places.

[margaretmattson]

Ipanema Brazilian Steakhouse in Ocala. I suggest you get a reservation because the restaurant is always busy. Out of the Box experience, delicious, and fun.

[Stu from NYC]

Ipanema Brazilian Steakhouse in Ocala. I suggest you get a reservation because the restaurant is always busy. Out of the Box experience, delicious, and fun.

Food very good but not what we would call upscale.

[Stu from NYC]

Paulie’s Oaks on 44

352-748-0050

Awesome food and service

Also very good but not upscale I am afraid

[JanRoberts]

If you feel like a drive, Bern's Steak House in Tampa. DELICIOUS and two can get out of there around $300.

[marianne237]

I agree with comments for Marks Steakhouse in Ocala, also Turners in Leesburg.

[MSGirl]

What are recommendation for an upscale restaurant in or near the villages for a special occasion

Marks Steakhouse in Ocala!

[jonathanb]

Goblin Market in Mt Dora

[RedChariot]

What are recommendation for an upscale restaurant in or near the villages for a special occasion

As it has been said many times throughout this thread, there are no upscale restaurants here in TV. I have gone to several who project themselves as upscale. I've gone on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day expecting some sort of an upscale experience. But then in walks Villagers in shorts, baseball caps , sweatshirt type hoodies, tee shirts, you name it. I KNOW you're retired! So am I, but we will never have that special ambiance in any restaurant if you can't even dress appropriately on Christmas.

Stirrups at the Equestrian Center is devine for both dinner and brunch. Don't miss the blueberry pancakes with in house made blueberry compote. The lobby alone at Christmas is worth the trip.

[Stu from NYC]

As it has been said many times throughout this thread, there are no upscale restaurants here in TV. I have gone to several who project themselves as upscale. I've gone on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day expecting some sort of an upscale experience. But then in walks Villagers in shorts, baseball caps , sweatshirt type hoodies, tee shirts, you name it. I KNOW you're retired! So am I, but we will never have that special ambiance in any restaurant if you can't even dress appropriately on Christmas.

Stirrups at the Equestrian Center is devine for both dinner and brunch. Don't miss the blueberry pancakes with in house made blueberry compote. The lobby alone at Christmas is worth the trip.

I guess there are all kinds. Go to restaurants for good food and service. Do not care what others wear and shorts are the attire of the day in the summer and also warm weather.

[BrianL99]

As it has been said many times throughout this thread, there are no upscale restaurants here in TV. I have gone to several who project themselves as upscale. I've gone on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day expecting some sort of an upscale experience. But then in walks Villagers in shorts, baseball caps , sweatshirt type hoodies, tee shirts, you name it. I KNOW you're retired! So am I, but we will never have that special ambiance in any restaurant if you can't even dress appropriately on Christmas.

.

I used to think we were a generation that were brought up with decent manners and some basic clues, as to what's appropriate and what's not.

A visit to any "upscale" TV restaurant, always proves I'm mistaken. The last time I decided I wanted a decent burger and went to the Chop House, I was surrounded by jerks in bathing suits, flip flops, ratty T shirts and baseball caps, talking on their cell phones.

TV may be a retirement community, but I'm pretty sure the Chop House wasn't intended to be a "beach bar".

I swear those giant The Villages signs you go under as you enter TV, have some magical force field, that sucks out people's common sense and injects them with the mentality of a 21 year old. I wouldn't mind if they could inject me with the body of a 22 year old, but I grew out of the frat party mentality, a lot time ago.

[JSR22]

As it has been said many times throughout this thread, there are no upscale restaurants here in TV. I have gone to several who project themselves as upscale. I've gone on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day expecting some sort of an upscale experience. But then in walks Villagers in shorts, baseball caps , sweatshirt type hoodies, tee shirts, you name it. I KNOW you're retired! So am I, but we will never have that special ambiance in any restaurant if you can't even dress appropriately on Christmas.

Stirrups at the Equestrian Center is devine for both dinner and brunch. Don't miss the blueberry pancakes with in house made blueberry compote. The lobby alone at Christmas is worth the trip.

Chrstmas Day in TV the only restaurants open are Asian and couple of low end chains. What upscale restaurant do you eat at Christmas Day?

[BrianL99]

Chrstmas Day in TV the only restaurants open are Asian and couple of low end chains. What upscale restaurant do you eat at Christmas Day?

Amelia's did a fabulous job at Christmas Dinner.

I'm fairly certain that's considered part of The Villages.

I'm not sure "up scale" would be the first word I'd use, but the food was excellent, the service was fabulous and the place was decorated very tastefully and appropriately.

[JMintzer]

Amelia's did a fabulous job at Christmas Dinner.

I'm fairly certain that's considered part of The Villages.

I'm not sure "up scale" would be the first word I'd use, but the food was excellent, the service was fabulous and the place was decorated very tastefully and appropriately.

From their website:

"Amelia's, Casual yet delectable"

"Dress Code: Casual"


What did you expect? Tuxedos and red dinner jackets?

[beckylou152]

What are recommendation for an upscale restaurant in or near the villages for a special occasion

We really love Lopez Legacy. The food is very good, as is the service. Second to that is Harvest in Brownwood.

[Ssouan]

Prime Three in Leesburg

[Chandra10100]

There isn’t one here because the villages takes a percentage of money from every business within the bubble. Doesn’t make it a very attractive business opportunity.




Lopez, Chop House, Prime Steakhouse, and others, are all excellent restaurants that offer great food. I’ve been to Mark’s , Harry’s and a few others in Orlando. For me The Villages Restaurants mentioned offer as good a quality of food as the “upscale”, or as I prefer to call “overpriced”restaurants outside the compound. If our market here would be attractive for a so called ”upscale” restaurant the why isn’t one here???

[Kelevision]

I was thinking that too. We ate at The Knife and Spoon, a Michelin star restaurant at the Ritz, and it was not even close to that.

While certainly not the normal for most upscale places. it’s not unheard of for high end Michelin restaurants. For example French Laundry. I flew up to Napa for one night just to eat there because someone got me a reservation. The base price for one person, just for food in 350 add on the wine pairing and it’s nearly 1000 for one person. I’ve eaten at several Michelin restaurants over the world and 500 for one is not bad. Having said that, there’s no place anywhere close to TV that would entail spending that kind of money for “upscale”. I like Kres Steakhouse in Orlando or Eddie V’s. Prime in Leesburg is fine if you’re looking for closer. It’s too bad TV doesn’t have anything.

[villageuser]

Turners in Leesburg. Parties of four or fewer.

Turners is DELICIOUS!

I also like Harry’s. I’ve been to the one in Ocala.

I haven’t had dinner yet at Rose Plantation, but I like that they have a dress code (an upscale restaurant usual requirement). Their lunch was satisfactory. I’m hoping dinner will delight my taste buds more, especially since we’re going there for our anniversary. By the way, if one doesn’t like where they get seated, I’d recommend asking for another table before you sit down.

[lynnbarnes]

The only time I was there, I had to sit on the porch, where the tables were too close together. I also don't like that they have a dress code, and I think it is overpriced. But, that is just my opinion. I know a lot of people like it.
I agree with everything you said and I want to add so comments. The last time I went was on a Tues. There were 8 of us celebrating a 70th birthday. When i made the reservation weeks in advance i asked for a specific table and was told i would have to pay $10 per person to reserve a particular table. I refused to pay $80 to make a reservation so we took out chances. Wehen we got there were the only people in the restaurant but for some reason the service was still very slow and the food was terrible. Prime rib was dark brown and very salty, like it had been soaked in packaged au just. Other meals were equally as bad. That was my second and last time at the Rose Plantation.

[LuvNH]

There isn’t one here because the villages takes a percentage of money from every business within the bubble. Doesn’t make it a very attractive business opportunity.

I believe this is the reason behind the lack of upscale dining and stores. Several years ago I had an excellent doctor in TV who, when I asked why he was leaving, told me it was due to the continual raising of rent on his business. (He is now outside the bubble). But I don't think that will change anything because the houses keep selling and selling and the price range is affordable to the average buyer trying to get away from the cold and northern taxes.

It has not always been like this. 20yrs ago when we came to TV there were some good restaurants, not necessarily upscale, but the food and ambiance was good. But I don't think things will change while the mindset is on selling homes.

[LuvNH]

I guess there are all kinds. Go to restaurants for good food and service. Do not care what others wear and shorts are the attire of the day in the summer and also warm weather.

Yes, shorts are the uniform for TV, but there are shorts and then there are dress shorts. Big difference, and big difference what you wear with your shorts. A sleeveless undershirt or a collared golf shirt, open flip flops or socks and casual shoes. I also think the older men are inclined to throw on a pair of shorts, whereas the professional men one sees are wearing dress pants and shirts with socks and shoes probably due to the fact they spend all day in their office in the air conditioning!

[Bogie Shooter]

There isn’t one here because the villages takes a percentage of money from every business within the bubble. Doesn’t make it a very attractive business opportunity.

This an urban legend. Disproven here many times.

[Bogie Shooter]

It has not always been like this. 20yrs ago when we came to TV there were some good restaurants, not necessarily upscale, but the food and ambiance was good. But I don't think things will change while the mindset is on selling homes.

What does selling homes have to do with someone/anyone opening a restaurant?

[retiredguy123]

The problem with upscale restaurants is that they are too expensive. Even the mediocre restaurants are pricing themselves out of business.

[Randall55]

Yes, shorts are the uniform for TV, but there are shorts and then there are dress shorts. Big difference, and big difference what you wear with your shorts. A sleeveless undershirt or a collared golf shirt, open flip flops or socks and casual shoes. I also think the older men are inclined to throw on a pair of shorts, whereas the professional men one sees are wearing dress pants and shirts with socks and shoes probably due to the fact they spend all day in their office in the air conditioning! While dining with those who have good hearts, good manners, and good conversation skills, I am blind to what they are wearing. Enter someone dressed to the nines who does not display these attributes and I want to leave the establishment immediately. Clothes don't make the night. People do!

[cphubbell@aol.com]

While the mention of Savin Rock brings back memories, for upscale near here I suggest the Toledo at the Disney Coronado Hotel. Make a reservation that gets you there before sunset but keeps you there after. It’s on the Rte 429 side of Disney . Food, service, atmosphere and view. Enjoy.

[Stu from NYC]

Yes, shorts are the uniform for TV, but there are shorts and then there are dress shorts. Big difference, and big difference what you wear with your shorts. A sleeveless undershirt or a collared golf shirt, open flip flops or socks and casual shoes. I also think the older men are inclined to throw on a pair of shorts, whereas the professional men one sees are wearing dress pants and shirts with socks and shoes probably due to the fact they spend all day in their office in the air conditioning!

I will wear a nice pair of shorts and collared golf shirt. See no reason to check on others shoes and socks.

Why be concerned with what others are wearing when going out for a nice dinner?

From what I have heard the developer does get a percentage of sales from his business renters but no idea about professional offices.

[Stu from NYC]

I believe this is the reason behind the lack of upscale dining and stores. Several years ago I had an excellent doctor in TV who, when I asked why he was leaving, told me it was due to the continual raising of rent on his business. (He is now outside the bubble). But I don't think that will change anything because the houses keep selling and selling and the price range is affordable to the average buyer trying to get away from the cold and northern taxes.

It has not always been like this. 20yrs ago when we came to TV there were some good restaurants, not necessarily upscale, but the food and ambiance was good. But I don't think things will change while the mindset is on selling homes.

Almost all of the restaurants we go to are fairly close but outside the bubble.

[BrianL99]

There isn’t one here because the villages takes a percentage of money from every business within the bubble. Doesn’t make it a very attractive business opportunity.

This an urban legend. Disproven here many times.


Where do people come up with this stuff?

"Urban Legend" ???

Commercial Leases for retail & restaurants, are typically based on (or include) a percentage of the gross revenue of the business. That's how commercial leasing works.

[Bogie Shooter]

I will wear a nice pair of shorts and collared golf shirt. See no reason to check on others shoes and socks.

Why be concerned with what others are wearing when going out for a nice dinner?

From what I have heard the developer does get a percentage of sales from his business renters but no idea about professional offices.

Stu where did you hear that? You been around long enough to know that
Is just a rumor or do you have inside info?i

[Bogie Shooter]

Where do people come up with this stuff?

"Urban Legend" ???

Commercial Leases for retail & restaurants, are typically based on (or include) a percentage of the gross revenue of the business. That's how commercial leasing works.

Is that a fact in Villages leases?

[ElDiabloJoe]

You must have an alcohol problem or spend a lot on specialty champagne or wine. I don't know what. I would consider myself a food snob and have eaten at some of the finest restaurants even Michelin star in Vegas,LA NY,Paris Toronto. I've never spent $1,000 on a meal for two people. I'd have to try really hard and order way too much to accomplish that end.

I suspect this is a troll account. Having dined at French Laundry (Thomas Keller's place in Napa), Volt (Brian Voltaggio's restaurant in Frederick, MD), Studio (Montage ocean cliff in Laguna Beach, CA) and James Beard award winner Amar Santana's place, Vaca, we have never paid $1,000 for two people.

Caveat: We never made it to Hubert Keller's Fleur de Lys in the Bay Area before it closed, or Commander's Palace in NOLA, so I cannot say they would not have prices approaching $100.

Second caveat: Your wine selections (assuming an appropriate and upscale pairing for each course) could jettison you into the $1,000-plus range.

Me, I'm very happy with Prima. I'm not that hoity-toity that the experience of the "uber-upscale" places are worth the palate pleasing price.

[Stu from NYC]

Stu where did you hear that? You been around long enough to know that
Is just a rumor or do you have inside info?i

During covid there were lots of threads on this and the prevailing opinion was the developer gets a percentage of sales.

This is also a very common part of a lease for retail operations all over.

One of the reasons that the big box stores open outside the bubble is to avoid the percentage clause.

[coffeebean]

Dress codes are what helps make upscale upscale. They are dumbing down so many of what at one time was special to attract the masses and all that takes a hit on quality. Overpriced says a lot of what some consider upscale.

Part of my consideration for upscale restaurants is the ambiance. Lopez does not compare to the ambiance of Chop House.

[Stu from NYC]

If Buc ces had a sit down section would it qualify as upscale?

Best bbq brisket we have had and the baked goods are outstanding.

[coffeebean]

I will wear a nice pair of shorts and collared golf shirt. See no reason to check on others shoes and socks.

Why be concerned with what others are wearing when going out for a nice dinner?

From what I have heard the developer does get a percentage of sales from his business renters but no idea about professional offices.
Just off Wonder of the Seas. We had dinner in Chops specialty restaurant. Had to look at some guy wearing a baseball cap……. backwards!!! I don’t care he was wearing a T Shirt and shorts and flip flops but the cap ruined it for me.

[BrianL99]

Where do people come up with this stuff?

"Urban Legend" ???

Commercial Leases for retail & restaurants, are typically based on (or include) a percentage of the gross revenue of the business. That's how commercial leasing works.

Is that a fact in Villages leases?

I doubt every lease in TV is the same. Percentages based on gross sales is a negotiating point, like everything else in a commercial lease.

A restaurant (like any other business) can justify a given rent, based on their projected sales volume (restaurants usually run about 6% - 12%).

A percentage rent is particularly useful, when leasing a restaurant with an unknown or unquantifiable history. The more successful the restaurant is, the more they pay in rent (or the opposite).

Take for example, the 1812 House (I think that's the name of the place in Spanish Springs that recently closed?). That location has a poor track record. Perhaps it's the location or perhaps it's mismanagement.

A potential operator comes to look at the site and says, "no one has been successful in this spot, because it's a lousy location ... I want cheaper rent".

TV Leasing agents says: "It's not the location, it's been mismanaged by previous operators".

Mr. Potential Operator says: "OK, fine. You want $30 sf. and I want to pay $25/sf. If you take the $25/sf, I'll pay you 3% of my gross revenue after the 1st $1,000,000 in revenue".

The owner (Lessor) and the business owner (Lessee), become responsible for each other's success.

Given the # of restaurants FMK has in TV, including operating some country clubs' F&B, I would bet the farm, their rents are based on a % of volume. I don't think there's any other practical way to do it.

Win - win for everyone.

[I have no clue what the going rents are in TV per square foot. That's just an example of how it works in the commercial leasing business].

[ThirdOfFive]

Just off Wonder of the Seas. We had dinner in Chops specialty restaurant. Had to look at some guy wearing a baseball cap……. backwards!!! I don’t care he was wearing a T Shirt and shorts and flip flops but the cap ruined it for me.
Yeah. We've experienced that on Royal Caribbean a few times. Some clown shows up on Formal Night in the main dining room in a T-shirt, cutoffs and sandals, just because he knows that the staff most likely won't make a scene by making him leave. Guess that makes him (or her, in some cases) special. I don't know.

[JMintzer]

There isn’t one here because the villages takes a percentage of money from every business within the bubble. Doesn’t make it a very attractive business opportunity.

That is common in many retail rentals... Not just in TV...

[ThirdOfFive]

I will wear a nice pair of shorts and collared golf shirt. See no reason to check on others shoes and socks.

Why be concerned with what others are wearing when going out for a nice dinner?

From what I have heard the developer does get a percentage of sales from his business renters but no idea about professional offices.
Resort casual. Don't know of too many venues in TV (if any) or any of the restaurants we've patronized in the surrounding area where customers would complain about a fellow customer dressed like that. This is Florida after all.

[JMintzer]

While dining with those who have good hearts, good manners, and good conversation skills, I am blind to what they are wearing. Enter someone dressed to the nines who does not display these attributes and I want to leave the establishment immediately. Clothes don't make the night. People do!

https://media.tenor.com/qWENqCDQfR4AAAAC/manners-manners-makes-a-man.gif

[JMintzer]

Where do people come up with this stuff?

"Urban Legend" ???

Commercial Leases for retail & restaurants, are typically based on (or include) a percentage of the gross revenue of the business. That's how commercial leasing works.

Correct. And it is not unique to TV...

[BrianL99]

Resort casual.



It sometimes seems that the vast majority of posts on this site, revolve people's perception of what The Villages is.

Is it a "Resort" or is it a "Community"

If you accept that it's a resort, short term rentals, people who don't know how to navigate roundabouts, folks wearing their pajamas to have dinner at a country club ... all those thing go with being a resort.

If you think The Villages is a community of retired folks, you might expect a higher degree of maturity, patience and decorum.

I suppose everyone is entitled to their own vision of the place they live.

[JMintzer]

Is that a fact in Villages leases?

One or two members of ToTV have stated that they had previously rented retail space and that was the case...

And again, it is not unique to TV...

[JMintzer]

Just off Wonder of the Seas. We had dinner in Chops specialty restaurant. Had to look at some guy wearing a baseball cap……. backwards!!! I don’t care he was wearing a T Shirt and shorts and flip flops but the cap ruined it for me.

https://24.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m6vi8yxysD1r9uyl8o1_500.gif

[Bilyclub]

If Buc-ees had a sit down section would it qualify as upscale?

Best bbq brisket we have had and the baked goods are outstanding.


I've been to around 7 Buc-ees and the best brisket was at the ones that just opened. After a while it seems to be a big load of fat on a bun. I get gas and use the facilities, but not the food anymore.

[Stu from NYC]

I've been to around 7 Buc-ees and the best brisket was at the ones that just opened. After a while it seems to be a big load of fat on a bun. I get gas and use the facilities, but not the food anymore.

Interesting. So far we have been happy but the stores we have gone to are on I 75 and I 95 and not opened that long.

Will keep getting the brisket until we decide we do not like it anymore.

[RedChariot]

Chrstmas Day in TV the only restaurants open are Asian and couple of low end chains. What upscale restaurant do you eat at Christmas Day?

Checked with my better half. Each time was Christmas Eve. Primo Steak House, Coastal Del Sol, and Blue Fin. Christmas Eve is a special time that should require someone to leave the baseball caps, shorts and tee shirts at home. The grand kids coming in frayed denim short shorts and tube tops, flip flops , overly exposed , would be a time for a wardrobe redo.

[JSR22]

Checked with my better half. Each time was Christmas Eve. Primo Steak House, Coastal Del Sol, and Blue Fin. Christmas Eve is a special time that should require someone to leave the baseball caps, shorts and tee shirts at home. The grand kids coming in frayed denim short shorts and tube tops, flip flops , overly exposed , would be a time for a wardrobe redo.

We have our Holiday Dinner Christmas Eve. Usually Chop House.

[JMintzer]

On Christmas Day, we do Chinese... It's "Tradition"...

https://i0.wp.com/craphound.com/images/5Wqmd.jpg

[Bevbova]

What are recommendation for an upscale restaurant in or near the villages for a special occasion

Prime 3 in Downtown Leesburg has extraordinary service. Our meals were all prepared to our liking and plated with great care. The wine list was decent. I’m surprised no one else has mentioned this place!

[Stu from NYC]

On Christmas Day, we do Chinese... It's "Tradition"...

https://i0.wp.com/craphound.com/images/5Wqmd.jpg

Yes it is. We were very surprised the old mill playhouse was closed on Christmas day as that is the other part of our tradition.

[midiwiz]

What are recommendation for an upscale restaurant in or near the villages for a special occasion

Upscale...TheVillages??? hang on this is hilarious... there are none in the bubble, however I can tell you that if you go 30 minutes north of here to Ocala there is an excellent french restaurant La Cuisine. Top notch. WEC is a bit over priced but very upscale. both need reservations.

as for the village restuarant ratings group, keep in mind the closer to done you get so do your taste buds..... IMHO those reviews are highly lacking

[djlnc]

On Christmas Day, we do Chinese... It's "Tradition"...

https://i0.wp.com/craphound.com/images/5Wqmd.jpg

Memories of A Christmas Story, when they order the roast duck!

[kkingston57]

I agree with everything you said and I want to add so comments. The last time I went was on a Tues. There were 8 of us celebrating a 70th birthday. When i made the reservation weeks in advance i asked for a specific table and was told i would have to pay $10 per person to reserve a particular table. I refused to pay $80 to make a reservation so we took out chances. Wehen we got there were the only people in the restaurant but for some reason the service was still very slow and the food was terrible. Prime rib was dark brown and very salty, like it had been soaked in packaged au just. Other meals were equally as bad. That was my second and last time at the Rose Plantation.

Had the same experience 2-3 weeks ago at Rose. Had been there twice before and will not go back. Waitress seemed to not know the menu.

[kkingston57]

Yeah. We've experienced that on Royal Caribbean a few times. Some clown shows up on Formal Night in the main dining room in a T-shirt, cutoffs and sandals, just because he knows that the staff most likely won't make a scene by making him leave. Guess that makes him (or her, in some cases) special. I don't know.

Seen this on Norwegian and Holland also. Reminds me of dress code at TV golf courses where men can wear jeans.

[Bilyclub]

Seen this on Norwegian and Holland also. Reminds me of dress code at TV golf courses where men can wear jeans.

Since there are no upscale golf courses here, what's your point? Everybody wears shorts anyway until it gets below 40.

[Stu from NYC]

Seen this on Norwegian and Holland also. Reminds me of dress code at TV golf courses where men can wear jeans.

In hot weather who would wear anything but shorts here?

[wolfie]

they made me take off my shorts and put on a pair of long pants which they supplied new