Resturant suggestions…

[Dis2cruise]

We will be arriving soon for our discovery stay. I would like some nice ( steak and seafood) resturants around the area where the villages will be housing us. We wouldn’t mind a 20 min. Drive outside the area as well. Thanks!

[tophcfa]

Bonefish, Chop House, Costal Del Mar, Blue Fin, and Lopez.

[dewilson58]

Bonefish, Chop House, Costal Del Mar, Blue Fin, and Lopez.

I would add Harvest and say you have a complete list.

:BigApplause:

[Dis2cruise]

Thanks so much!!

[BrianL99]

Thanks so much!!

Depending on where you're from, don't get your hopes up.

The Villagers is far from an Epicurean's delight. Get ready to over-pay and be under-whelmed.

[tophcfa]

Depending on where you're from, don't get your hopes up.

The Villagers is far from an Epicurean's delight. Get ready to over-pay and be under-whelmed.

We were definitely not underwhelmed at Costal Del Mar last night?

[Stu from NYC]

Over time many of us have learned that a 30 minute drive to Ocala or Leesburg will yield better restaurants.

[tophcfa]

Over time many of us have learned that a 30 minute drive to Ocala or Leesburg will yield better restaurants.

The short golf cart ride is a big part of the experience for us. Plus, we flew down for this stay at our Villages home and are without a car.

[swooner]

I would add Harvest and say you have a complete list.

:BigApplause:
Absolutely awful!

[dtennent]

Try Prime 3 in Leesburg. It is a bit pricier than the usual restaurant in TV but worth the money. They also have an interesting wine list as well.

[ThirdOfFive]

The short golf cart ride is a big part of the experience for us. Plus, we flew down for this stay at our Villages home and are without a car.
What square is nearest to where you are staying? The Villages is a BIG place and a golf cart ride from the far northern reaches to (say) Brownwood Paddock Square is anything but a short golf cart ride. Also if you've never driven a golf cart in The Villages it is very easy to get lost, especially at night.

Anyway, I agree with most of the recommendations here, however my input is as follows:

If you like ice cream, definitely stop by Kilwin's at Spanish Springs. Their idea of a scoop is about 1.5 times as big as other places and service is great. Haagen-Dasz at Lake Sumter Landing is good or not depending on who's working, and wait times tend to be long. I've never tried Scooples at Brownwood but have talked to folks who have liked it.

Breakfast? The Flying Biscuit at Lake Sumter Landing is good, especially if you like chicken as part of your breakfast meal. I'm a bacon guy myself and they do have it, but it seems as if the chickens are winning over the pigs there about 5-1. Good, friendly service. Their signature "side" is fresh biscuits with apple butter and they are fantastic. First Watch (by Publix in the Spanish Plaines shopping center) is pretty good as well.

Dinner: can't go wrong at Coastal Del Mar in Spanish Springs. It isn't high-end by any means, more middle of the road, but the food is good, the service is impeccable, and the place is clean and well-run. Their seafood offerings are somewhat limited but what they have is fine. Bluefin (Brownwood) is good for dinner, medium-high $$ but good food and service. Bonefish Grill (on 466, in a small mall in the same area as the Fresh Market) is good but somewhat hit-or-miss. I had a NY Strip Steak there once, medium, that was melt-in-your-mouth tender. Another time, same thing was on the far side of tough. Best on Friday and Saturday evenings when the A-team is working.

I don't recommend Chops at Lake Sumter Landing: had chateaubriand there once that was VERY tough: had a hard time believing that it came from tenderloin. Don't get me wrong though: the food is generally pretty good there. But you're eating at what is probably the priciest restaurant in TV so "pretty good" is not acceptable. Steer clear of Lighthouse Point (Lake Sumter Landing on the shore).

Anyway, enjoy your stay!

[Normal]

Just 5 minutes outside of Villages North are Gio’s and Francesco’s, the southern area also has Rodellos and the Oakwood smokehouse. Most of the Villages restaurants are par at best.

An interesting and rustic Florida atmosphere option about an hour drive west is Homosassa State park (takes about 1.5 to walk through and enjoy the wildlife) and then a trip to The Freezer for a couple pounds of Cajun steamed shrimp and a bread bowl of chowder. It’s super cheap and super good. There is also a more refined place called FD Woodfired just inside Orlando. Try the Black Iron Mussels.

[Michael 61]

“Best Restaurants” is so subjective. We all have various likes/dislikes. I eat out most of my dinners. Most of my favorites are outside “the bubble”. I’m not a fan of “bar food”. For what it’s worth, here’s my current ten restaurants that I rotate through that are inside “the bubble”. I’ve learned what’s good to order and what to stay clear of at each establishment.
1) Harvest
2) Blue Fin
3) Kumo
4) Roberto’s
5) Chop House
6) Havana CC
7) Nancy Lopez CC
8) Coastal Del Mar
9) Amerikonos
10) La Bella Vita

[Dis2cruise]

What square is nearest to where you are staying? The Villages is a BIG place and a golf cart ride from the far northern reaches to (say) Brownwood Paddock Square is anything but a short golf cart ride. Also if you've never driven a golf cart in The Villages it is very easy to get lost, especially at night.

Anyway, I agree with most of the recommendations here, however my input is as follows:

If you like ice cream, definitely stop by Kilwin's at Spanish Springs. Their idea of a scoop is about 1.5 times as big as other places and service is great. Haagen-Dasz at Lake Sumter Landing is good or not depending on who's working, and wait times tend to be long. I've never tried Scooples at Brownwood but have talked to folks who have liked it.

Breakfast? The Flying Biscuit at Lake Sumter Landing is good, especially if you like chicken as part of your breakfast meal. I'm a bacon guy myself and they do have it, but it seems as if the chickens are winning over the pigs there about 5-1. Good, friendly service. Their signature "side" is fresh biscuits with apple butter and they are fantastic. First Watch (by Publix in the Spanish Plaines shopping center) is pretty good as well.

Dinner: can't go wrong at Coastal Del Mar in Spanish Springs. It isn't high-end by any means, more middle of the road, but the food is good, the service is impeccable, and the place is clean and well-run. Their seafood offerings are somewhat limited but what they have is fine. Bluefin (Brownwood) is good for dinner, medium-high $$ but good food and service. Bonefish Grill (on 466, in a small mall in the same area as the Fresh Market) is good but somewhat hit-or-miss. I had a NY Strip Steak there once, medium, that was melt-in-your-mouth tender. Another time, same thing was on the far side of tough. Best on Friday and Saturday evenings when the A-team is working.

I don't recommend Chops at Lake Sumter Landing: had chateaubriand there once that was VERY tough: had a hard time believing that it came from tenderloin. Don't get me wrong though: the food is generally pretty good there. But you're eating at what is probably the priciest restaurant in TV so "pretty good" is not acceptable. Steer clear of Lighthouse Point (Lake Sumter Landing on the shore).

Anyway, enjoy your stay!

Thanks for your info! Not exactly sure where they house us for our stay.

[Stu from NYC]

Just 5 minutes outside of Villages North are Gio’s and Francesco’s, the southern area also has Rodellos and the Oakwood smokehouse. Most of the Villages restaurants are par at best.

An interesting and rustic Florida atmosphere option about an hour drive west is Homosassa State park (takes about 1.5 to walk through and enjoy the wildlife) and then a trip to The Freezer for a couple pounds of Cajun steamed shrimp and a bread bowl of chowder. It’s super cheap and super good. There is also a more refined place called FD Woodfired just inside Orlando. Try the Black Iron Mussels.

Food is good at Gios but can be horribly noisy especially the back room. Wish they never sold Giovannis

[ThirdOfFive]

Thanks for your info! Not exactly sure where they house us for our stay.
If you're coming on the Lifestyle plan, probably near Brownwood. South. We have some friends coming in October and that's where they're staying. I've heard that the planners do that because there are new(er) houses and neighborhoods in that area.

[Kelevision]

They’ll most likely put you up south of 44 in which case Brownwood will be the closest square. They have Prima, Harvest, Blu fin among other more casual places. The next closest would be Lake Sumter Landing which has Chops. I’m not sure of anything else there. I rarely go. then there’s Spanish Springs which I haven’t been to in over 20 years back when Cattlemen’s Club was there. Lopez CC is good ( same owner as Prima) but I rarely go due to its location so far north. I love having lunch at Fenney Grill. Fenney is a beautiful village. Sawgrass Grove will be very close for a drink or watching a band too. Prime 3 in Leesburg is good for dinner outside the bubble. Edna’s is good for lunch or afternoon if that’s your thing. Just remember, July, Aug, Sept are the most miserable months ( humidity/heat) so if you can make it through this time, you’ll be good to go!!!!

[dewilson58]

Absolutely awful!

Yep, that's way it's always busy.

:beer3:

[Cupcake57]

We will be arriving soon for our discovery stay. I would like some nice ( steak and seafood) resturants around the area where the villages will be housing us. We wouldn’t mind a 20 min. Drive outside the area as well. Thanks!

Ditto Bluefin, Chop House, Costa Del Mar; food is good at Prima but service can be sketchy during snowbird season. Have been to Harvest 3 times and didn't impress me. Fenney grill isn't gourmet, but you can play in the Fenney pool and get lunch/bar takeout at the bar which is right there. Another Broken Egg for breakfast; if you don't finish your Mimosa pitcher, they put it in a plastic baggie with a straw for a big girl juice box! Maybe you don't know, but the country club restaurants are open to all-don't need to be a member of anything.

[Pugchief]

Yep, that's way it's {Harvest} always busy.

:beer3:

Have been to Harvest 3 times and didn't impress me.

Agree with Cupcake, not a fan of Harvest. Overpriced and weird selections on the menu. Maybe people go there bc the other places have long waits? Much better options in Brownwood IMO.

[Normal]

Agree with Cupcake, not a fan of Harvest. Overpriced and weird selections on the menu. Maybe people go there bc the other places have long waits? Much better options in Brownwood IMO.

IMO Fiesta Grande is better than the whole lot in Brownwood, but Wolfgang Pucks is near and has the best bacon wrapped meatloaf and cheesecake. Most restaurants inside the bubble are over salted and lack individual TLC to their dishes. I certainly would encourage a few drives out into the local economy.

[Pairadocs]

Bonefish, Chop House, Costal Del Mar, Blue Fin, and Lopez.

Pretty good list ! Of course, this will grow and grow as everyone has their "fav", and some will post to promote this or that restaurant, but IMO your list is very accurate !

[ElDiabloJoe]

I'm a Prima fan (Brownwood Paddock Sq.).

[JMintzer]

Try Prime 3 in Leesburg. It is a bit pricier than the usual restaurant in TV but worth the money. They also have an interesting wine list as well.

We went a few weeks ago. Priced like a "Morton's", a "Capitol Grille", or a "Ruth's Chris" but while nice, it didn't come close to measuring up to any of those places...

Mark's in Ocala was much better, IMHO...

[JMintzer]

“Best Restaurants” is so subjective. We all have various likes/dislikes. I eat out most of my dinners. Most of my favorites are outside “the bubble”. I’m not a fan of “bar food”. For what it’s worth, here’s my current ten restaurants that I rotate through that are inside “the bubble”. I’ve learned what’s good to order and what to stay clear of at each establishment.
1) Harvest
2) Blue Fin
3) Kumo
4) Roberto’s
5) Chop House
6) Havana CC
7) Nancy Lopez CC
8) Coastal Del Mar
9) Amerikonos
10) La Bella Vita

Solid choices... (I've never been to Chop House or Kumo, and Robertos left my mildly unimpressed, but the other people in my party loved it...)

[Stu from NYC]

We went a few weeks ago. Priced like a "Morton's", a "Capitol Grille", or a "Ruth's Chris" but while nice, it didn't come close to measuring up to any of those places...

Mark's in Ocala was much better, IMHO...

We have been to MRKS PRIME ONCE and had a very good meal there. Unfortunately dear wife is not a steak eater or we would go regularly

[JMintzer]

Thanks for your info! Not exactly sure where they house us for our stay.

If you're coming for a "Lifestyle Visit", you'll be living well south of 44, which puts some of those places a long cart ride away...

[JMintzer]

We have been to MRKS PRIME ONCE and had a very good meal there. Unfortunately dear wife is not a steak eater or we would go regularly

They had a nice fish selection for SWMBO...

[Dusty_Star]

What square is nearest to where you are staying? The Villages is a BIG place and a golf cart ride from the far northern reaches to (say) Brownwood Paddock Square is anything but a short golf cart ride. Also if you've never driven a golf cart in The Villages it is very easy to get lost, especially at night.

Anyway, I agree with most of the recommendations here, however my input is as follows:

If you like ice cream, definitely stop by Kilwin's at Spanish Springs. Their idea of a scoop is about 1.5 times as big as other places and service is great. Haagen-Dasz at Lake Sumter Landing is good or not depending on who's working, and wait times tend to be long. I've never tried Scooples at Brownwood but have talked to folks who have liked it.

Breakfast? The Flying Biscuit at Lake Sumter Landing is good, especially if you like chicken as part of your breakfast meal. I'm a bacon guy myself and they do have it, but it seems as if the chickens are winning over the pigs there about 5-1. Good, friendly service. Their signature "side" is fresh biscuits with apple butter and they are fantastic. First Watch (by Publix in the Spanish Plaines shopping center) is pretty good as well.

Dinner: can't go wrong at Coastal Del Mar in Spanish Springs. It isn't high-end by any means, more middle of the road, but the food is good, the service is impeccable, and the place is clean and well-run. Their seafood offerings are somewhat limited but what they have is fine. Bluefin (Brownwood) is good for dinner, medium-high $$ but good food and service. Bonefish Grill (on 466, in a small mall in the same area as the Fresh Market) is good but somewhat hit-or-miss. I had a NY Strip Steak there once, medium, that was melt-in-your-mouth tender. Another time, same thing was on the far side of tough. Best on Friday and Saturday evenings when the A-team is working.

I don't recommend Chops at Lake Sumter Landing: had chateaubriand there once that was VERY tough: had a hard time believing that it came from tenderloin. Don't get me wrong though: the food is generally pretty good there. But you're eating at what is probably the priciest restaurant in TV so "pretty good" is not acceptable. Steer clear of Lighthouse Point (Lake Sumter Landing on the shore).

Anyway, enjoy your stay!

Agree with the Flying Biscuit in Lake Sumter Landing, even if going for lunch (not a bad option), the signature biscuits & apple butter are great! They did know what they were doing when naming the restaurant after the biscuits.

[Buzman]

If you like Prime Rib, you should try it at the Mezza Luna Grill located at the east end of the Colony Plaza. It also has many traditional pasta dishes.

Wolfgang Puck is located at the Brownwood Hotel. They serve a double pork chop that is marinated, juicy, slow roasted and simply excellent.

[Braddock]

Try Prime 3 in Leesburg. It is a bit pricier than the usual restaurant in TV but worth the money. They also have an interesting wine list as well.

Been there 3 times hoping for success.
Food and service subpar.
1 of the owners hangs out at the bar with his friends.
It’s a hobby for the 3 Drs.

[asianthree]

Duplicate

[asianthree]

We will be arriving soon for our discovery stay. I would like some nice ( steak and seafood) resturants around the area where the villages will be housing us. We wouldn’t mind a 20 min. Drive outside the area as well. Thanks!

It’s summer so every in the bubble restaurant wants your business with a multitude of specials. You should hopefully be near Brownwood, it’s close and except for Harvest all offer great service and food.
Harvest has unique dishes, ingredients that sometimes doesn’t appeal to everyone.
However, I would go if you’re looking for good steak I would go to Leesburg.
Problem is when we vaca, we don’t want to eat at a chain, but more of a mom and pop single venue.
One needs to travel outside the bubble to get that experience, Leesburg, Ocala not that far for a better experience

[Ele201]

Depending on where you're from, don't get your hopes up.

The Villagers is far from an Epicurean's delight. Get ready to over-pay and be under-whelmed.
I was thinking the same thing. That’s good advice, and it’s important to keep your expectations in perspective when dining out in TV.

[Juliebythesea]

Turners in Leesburg

[bowlingal]

The Rose Plantation in Fruitland Park ( Rose Ave off 466A) right on the lake

[BookerBo]

Really like the food, service and prices.
1. Sammy’s Italian –301, Oxford. All Dishes and Salads are really good
2. Oxford Express – 301, Wildwood or 441 Leesburg. Best Ribs around
3. Oxford Downs – 301, Oxford/Summerville. Best Tiki Bar and Bar food around
4. Bori Burger – 427/14th St., Leesburg, Cuban and Puerta Rican food, It’s a real hole in the wall with four inside table and four outside, Try inside then carryout. (support Minority and women owned, their story is very interesting)
5. The Freezer – 44/19 (roughly), Homosassa, If you love shrimp
6. Legacy Restaurant – North Buena Vista, Never had a bad meal or bad experience
7. Fords Garage – We go to Wesley Chapel location when down that way. A big Bar essentially
8. Any hole in the wall Cuban Restaurant in Tampa if you love Cuban sandwiches, Yellow rice and Beans.
9. Columbia Restaurant in Ybor City, 1905 salad and Atmosphere are impressive

[Ele201]

It’s summer so every in the bubble restaurant wants your business with a multitude of specials. You should hopefully be near Brownwood, it’s close and except for Harvest all offer great service and food.
Harvest has unique dishes, ingredients that sometimes doesn’t appeal to everyone.
However, I would go if you’re looking for good steak I would go to Leesburg.
I am not a fan of Harvest either. We took another couple there as a thank you, and our guest ordered the filet Mignon, which was $40 and the least expensive steak on the menu. It wasn’t great. Embarrassing, since he’s from Kansas City. But, in fairness it’s a pretty place and it offers some nice happy hour options: reduced prices on cocktails and a few plates at the bar for around $15. I just wouldn’t get a steak there.

[LeRoySmith]

SWMBO...

OMG, I bout died when I looked up what that acronym meant.

[defrey12]

Depending on where you're from, don't get your hopes up.

The Villagers is far from an Epicurean's delight. Get ready to over-pay and be under-whelmed.

👍👍👍…accurate assessment.

[Rzepecki]

I would add Harvest and say you have a complete list.

:BigApplause:

I agree.

[Heytubes]

Mark’s Prime in Ocala #1
Costa Del Mar in Spanish Springs
Blue Fin Brownwood
Chops Sumter Landing

[ThirdOfFive]

Really like the food, service and prices.
1. Sammy’s Italian –301, Oxford. All Dishes and Salads are really good
2. Oxford Express – 301, Wildwood or 441 Leesburg. Best Ribs around
3. Oxford Downs – 301, Oxford/Summerville. Best Tiki Bar and Bar food around
4. Bori Burger – 427/14th St., Leesburg, Cuban and Puerta Rican food, It’s a real hole in the wall with four inside table and four outside, Try inside then carryout. (support Minority and women owned, their story is very interesting)
5. The Freezer – 44/19 (roughly), Homosassa, If you love shrimp
6. Legacy Restaurant – North Buena Vista, Never had a bad meal or bad experience
7. Fords Garage – We go to Wesley Chapel location when down that way. A big Bar essentially
8. Any hole in the wall Cuban Restaurant in Tampa if you love Cuban sandwiches, Yellow rice and Beans.
9. Columbia Restaurant in Ybor City, 1905 salad and Atmosphere are impressive
Good list.

One restaurant that rarely gets any notice but IMO is excellent is the Villa Pinar Cuban Cafeteria on Highway 441 (Summerfield). It is in a small strip mall with a very small sign so is not easy to find. Family-run, very small: seating for maybe 40 or so though they do sell a lot of takeout. They have a menu where they prepare food to order but it seems as if a lot (most?) of the customers get their meal from a small buffet which is served up by the hostess--you get an entree' and two sides. Pork shoulder is popular and they serve up a very large portion. With sides (for me black beans & rise, and cassava) it comes to about $14 and is usually enough for two meals. They do have some odd hours so it is wise to check their website before going out there.

Good place. I recommend it.

[msilagy]

Depending where you are from these suggestions may or may not be a big turn on. Being from the Chicago area and dining in the finest restaurants all over the US for my job these pale in comparison. Marks Steakhouse in Ocala is the only steakhouse I would recommend. The villagers go crazy over Bonefish...it's a chain! Hope you enjoy your stay.

[Ele201]

Depending where you are from these suggestions may or may not be a big turn on. Being from the Chicago area and dining in the finest restaurants all over the US for my job these pale in comparison. Marks Steakhouse in Ocala is the only steakhouse I would recommend. The villagers go crazy over Bonefish...it's a chain! Hope you enjoy your stay.
Appreciate your recommendation on Marks in Ocala, as I’m always interested in a good steakhouse. As for Bonefish, it does have an inviting atmosphere; good cocktails and I’ve enjoyed some good fish dishes there. However its new Social Hour menu (happy hour) features BLT nachos. No cheese on nachos? Not for me. That dish sounds like high margins for them.

[Nana2Teddy]

Thanks for your info! Not exactly sure where they house us for our stay.
They will house you down south of 44 near the new homes. Your golf cart will be very basic and slow, so use a car to go anywhere beyond your local area (did our LSV in 6/2022). Lots of the restaurants being mentioned will be very far from your lifestyle villa, and the heat is killer right now, so you’ll want to travel with AC. Have fun!

[Nana2Teddy]

If you're coming on the Lifestyle plan, probably near Brownwood. South. We have some friends coming in October and that's where they're staying. I've heard that the planners do that because there are new(er) houses and neighborhoods in that area.
Very few visitors on the LSV are placed near Brownwood anymore. The newest LSV villas are located in Newell. Maybe your friends asked for the Brownwood location? I’ve heard most of those old LSV villas have been sold.

[Gramfry52]

I suggest Bellview Coyntry Club. Great steak and lobster special on Wed. Nite

[ThirdOfFive]

Very few visitors on the LSV are placed near Brownwood anymore. The newest LSV villas are located in Newell. Maybe your friends asked for the Brownwood location? I’ve heard most of those old LSV villas have been sold.
"All About The Villages Lifestyle Visit

by Ryan Erisman | Updated: July 22, 2024

One of the most important things you should do when deciding whether to move to The Villages is to take advantage of The Villages Lifestyle Preview.
What is The Villages Lifestyle Preview?

The Villages Lifestyle Preview allows prospective Villagers the opportunity to come live like a Villager for anywhere from 4 to 7 days.

For $99-$199 per night (depending on time of year) The Villages will put you up in one of their fully-furnished homes located near Brownwood Paddock Square, one of the three town squares. Your home will have everything you'd expect from a typical vacation rental and even includes your very own golf cart for getting around The Villages while you are here." (inside the bubble dot net, 7/22/24)

[roguesearcher]

...sounds like Texas...

[HORNET]

Someone’s like may not be another’s likes.

[waltwl]

We were definitely not underwhelmed at Costal Del Mar last night?
I’ll second that.

[bioman419]

Marks Prime in Ocala......can't go wrong.

[nn0wheremann]

Bonefish, Chop House, Costal Del Mar, Blue Fin, and Lopez.
Good list, but around here the quality of your restaurant experience seems to vary depending on who showed up for work on any given day. You takes your chances, then you pays your money.

[Grill Meister]

This web site will give you a listing of restaurants according to the type of food you like and give you their menur and pricing and their distances from The Villages. Too, it will give you ratings on each restaurant.

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

[Pugchief]

They had a nice fish selection for SWMBO...

I thought I knew them all but had to look that one up. LOL !! Perhaps if that truly applies, it's time to rethink the relationship.

[JMintzer]

OMG, I bout died when I looked up what that acronym meant.

What, you don't have one of those?

Lucky man... :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[JMintzer]

Really like the food, service and prices.
1. Sammy’s Italian –301, Oxford. All Dishes and Salads are really good

Sammy's is good, but we prefer Napolinos, which is right across the street...

[Papa_lecki]

Very few visitors on the LSV are placed near Brownwood anymore. The newest LSV villas are located in Newell. Maybe your friends asked for the Brownwood location? I’ve heard most of those old LSV villas have been sold.

This could be why there is more new inventory. Part of the lifestyle visit is riding in the golf cart, being near a square, staying in the bubble for dinner, etc.

I may not have had as great an experience if when we rented, we weren’t near LSL.

Just my opinion.

[JMintzer]

"All About The Villages Lifestyle Visit

by Ryan Erisman | Updated: July 22, 2024

One of the most important things you should do when deciding whether to move to The Villages is to take advantage of The Villages Lifestyle Preview.
What is The Villages Lifestyle Preview?

The Villages Lifestyle Preview allows prospective Villagers the opportunity to come live like a Villager for anywhere from 4 to 7 days.

For $99-$199 per night (depending on time of year) The Villages will put you up in one of their fully-furnished homes located near Brownwood Paddock Square, one of the three town squares. Your home will have everything you'd expect from a typical vacation rental and even includes your very own golf cart for getting around The Villages while you are here." (inside the bubble dot net, 7/22/24)

Sounds like they need to update their website...

It has this at the top of their website:

"DISCLAIMER: THE VILLAGES® is a federally registered trademark of Holding Company of The Villages, Inc. This website is not affiliated with, or sponsored by, Holding Company of The Villages, Inc. or its affiliated entities."

[JMintzer]

I thought I knew them all but had to look that one up. LOL !! Perhaps if that truly applies, it's time to rethink the relationship.

It's a JOKE!

You know, like "Happy wife, happy life"?

Sigh... After 42 years, we're doing just fine, thank you very much...

[maistocars]

Harvest and their Harvest bowls for $15 ea. in the summer are the best deal around. Have tried and loved all of them, especially the steak bowl (medium rare). Their rolls are also the best in TV. Prima is good as well. On the other hand, Lopez was my worst dining experience ever - no seasoning/bland everything, pasta overcooked, dining room in major need of refurbishment.

[Glowing Horizon]

The villages is so large that your golf cart will not allow you to conveniently visit all of the town squares. Spanish Springs, Lake Sumter Landing are distant, Brownwood, as well as Sawgrass Grove & the new Eastport are closer but all worthy of consideration. A rental car would be advisable but if you don’t get a car, then you should consider Uber to the remote town squares mid-afternoon then have an early dinner & walk to the square see the nightly musicians (5pm - 9pm ET) before you take Uber back home. Cost will be worth it IMO. At least do Ubers for a night out at Spanish Springs & LSL. You’ll be glad you did.

[Pugchief]

It's a JOKE!

You know, like "Happy wife, happy life"?



Duh, and my reply was SARCASM. But it's still a great acronym to keep in the toolbox!

[yankygrl]

I’ll second that.
I love the FMK group of restaurants but I tried Coastal Del Mar for lunch this week and as previously mentioned I too was underwhelmed. I have a gift card for that restaurant so will have to go back another time for dinner to spend it and then stay with those south of LSL.

[LeRoySmith]

What, you don't have one of those?

Lucky man... :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

Oh no I have one, I just didn't know there was an official title. I'm with you on the happy wife happy life business.

To be honest I'm pretty lucky to have her keeping me straight.

[Stu from NYC]

Oh no I have one, I just didn't know there was an official title. I'm with you on the happy wife happy life business.

To be honest I'm pretty lucky to have her keeping me straight.

How come females never post how lucky they are?:boom:

[JMintzer]

Duh, and my reply was SARCASM. But it's still a great acronym to keep in the toolbox!

Sure didn't read like SARCASM...

But if it was meant that way, duh, apology accepted...

[JMintzer]

Oh no I have one, I just didn't know there was an official title. I'm with you on the happy wife happy life business.

To be honest I'm pretty lucky to have her keeping me straight.

No question about that! Lord knows what trouble I'd find myself getting into if she wasn't around... :D

[JMintzer]

How come females never post how lucky they are?:boom:

Because they're married to us! :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[LeRoySmith]

Because they're married to us! :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

This

[Stu from NYC]

Because they're married to us! :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

I know but they should post how lucky they are for all the world to see

[LeRoySmith]

I know but they should post how lucky they are for all the world to see

Mrs Leroy isn't a very good lier.....

[tophcfa]

The villages is so large that your golf cart will not allow you to conveniently visit all of the town squares. Spanish Springs, Lake Sumter Landing are distant, Brownwood, as well as Sawgrass Grove & the new Eastport are closer but all worthy of consideration. A rental car would be advisable but if you don’t get a car, then you should consider Uber to the remote town squares mid-afternoon then have an early dinner & walk to the square see the nightly musicians (5pm - 9pm ET) before you take Uber back home. Cost will be worth it IMO. At least do Ubers for a night out at Spanish Springs & LSL. You’ll be glad you did.

Really? Depends on your homes location. About a 6 and 8 minute golf cart ride to Spanish Springs and Lake Sumter Landing, respectively, from our beautiful Villages home. I wouldn’t call that distant at all. And the next time we take an Uber will be our first, but that will probably never happen.

[Nana2Teddy]

"All About The Villages Lifestyle Visit

by Ryan Erisman | Updated: July 22, 2024

One of the most important things you should do when deciding whether to move to The Villages is to take advantage of The Villages Lifestyle Preview.
What is The Villages Lifestyle Preview?

The Villages Lifestyle Preview allows prospective Villagers the opportunity to come live like a Villager for anywhere from 4 to 7 days.

For $99-$199 per night (depending on time of year) The Villages will put you up in one of their fully-furnished homes located near Brownwood Paddock Square, one of the three town squares. Your home will have everything you'd expect from a typical vacation rental and even includes your very own golf cart for getting around The Villages while you are here." (inside the bubble dot net, 7/22/24)
Ryan’s info is outdated. He obviously isn’t checking before updating his ebook. I know several couples who recently did LSV’s and they were all placed down in Newell in new patio villas. Brownwood Square is pretty far from the newest homes currently for sale, and that’s what TV agents are trying to sell to new customers. There might still be a small number of villas located near Brownwood if that’s requested by visitors, but nothing like there used to be.

[ThirdOfFive]

No question about that! Lord knows what trouble I'd find myself getting into if she wasn't around... :D
My wife says that any woman can keep any man happy with a simple formula.

"Good food, good sex, and don't b!tch too much."

Works for me...

[LeRoySmith]

My wife says that any woman can keep any man happy with a simple formula.

"Good food, good sex, and don't b!tch too much."

Works for me...

Any chance we can hook our wives up for a play date?

[Papa_lecki]

My wife says that any woman can keep any man happy with a simple formula.

"Good food, good sex, and don't b!tch too much."

Works for me...

And the good food and not bitching are optional.

[Stu from NYC]

My wife says that any woman can keep any man happy with a simple formula.

"Good food, good sex, and don't b!tch too much."

Works for me...

She is a keeper for sure

[SusanStCatherine]

I've heard good things about Seafood Shack in strip mall in Leesburg. Mixed reviews O Shucks dive in Wildwood. Both are probably less than 20 minutes car ride from where you will probably be staying. Blue Fin is in Brownwood square and is usually good. As for steak, I would strongly recommend driving up to Legacy Restaurant at Nancy Lopez country club which is within Villages but half hour car ride. Ive had bad steak experiences at Primo and Prime 3. Good luck!

[bshuler]

We will be arriving soon for our discovery stay. I would like some nice ( steak and seafood) resturants around the area where the villages will be housing us. We wouldn’t mind a 20 min. Drive outside the area as well. Thanks!

Here is a new, official video from The Villages covering shopping and dining here.

Your Ultimate Guide to Shopping and Dining in The Villages (https://youtu.be/GkBofLRsLsk?si=WfFS6BAxLUTqQwSA)

[Stu from NYC]

I've heard good things about Seafood Shack in strip mall in Leesburg. Mixed reviews O Shucks dive in Wildwood. Both are probably less than 20 minutes car ride from where you will probably be staying. Blue Fin is in Brownwood square and is usually good. As for steak, I would strongly recommend driving up to Legacy Restaurant at Nancy Lopez country club which is within Villages but half hour car ride. Ive had bad steak experiences at Primo and Prime 3. Good luck!

Food at O Shucks was good the mosquitoes were not. Never sit outside unless you put on tons of bug spray.

[JMintzer]

Really? Depends on your homes location. About a 6 and 8 minute golf cart ride to Spanish Springs and Lake Sumter Landing, respectively, from our beautiful Villages home. I wouldn’t call that distant at all. And the next time we take an Uber will be our first, but that will probably never happen.

Of course it depends on location. If you're in the Historic section, Brownwood, Sawgrass and Eastport will be quite for away. The same for people living in the Eastport area, who want to take a cart to LSL and Spanish Springs...

So yes, really...

[JMintzer]

My wife says that any woman can keep any man happy with a simple formula.

"Good food, good sex, and don't b!tch too much."

Works for me...

And the good food and not bitching are optional.

I'd settle for door #3...

[JoMar]

Depending on where you're from, don't get your hopes up.

The Villagers is far from an Epicurean's delight. Get ready to over-pay and be under-whelmed.

Be cautious when asking stuff on here. Many are homers, nothing is as good or priced as well as where they came from. They take that position as if they speak for everyone when it only a biased opinion.

[Skip]

The community has a large Gourmet Club. I rely on their website to see what other Villagers experience in dining out at area restaurants. It's great for newbies. At the bottom of their homepage you can see all the restaurants INSIDE The Villages or within 30 MILES of The Villages. Great resource. LINK (https://thevillagesgourmetclub.com/)

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[Michael 61]

The community has a large Gourmet Club. I rely on their website to see what other Villagers experience in dining out at area restaurants. It's great for newbies. At the bottom of their homepage you can see all the restaurants INSIDE The Villages or within 30 MILES of The Villages. Great resource. LINK (https://thevillagesgourmetclub.com/)

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Hmmm, they rate Bob Evans an “11” and Blue Fin practically the same with a “11.5”. For me, yelp is more accurate.

[FenneyGirl]

Food is good at Gios but can be horribly noisy especially the back room. Wish they never sold Giovannis

I would stay away from Friday nights. They have a gentleman singing way too loud. Can’t have conversation. Otherwise it’s very very good.

[Skip]

Hmmm, they rate Bob Evans an “11” and Blue Fin practically the same with a “11.5”. For me, yelp is more accurate.

On YELP, restaurant owners (plus employees and family members) can rate their own restaurants HIGH and the one across the street LOW. Can't trust Yelp reviews, they are largely anonymous and too general. Nearby, Dairy Queen rates 4.7 Stars on Yelp and Carrabba's only 3.2 Stars. !!!
I prefer the residents of The Villages opinions. I even know some of the members.

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