Havana

[golf2140]

Just went by Havana Restaurant. There is a note on the door that they are closed Temp. for maintainance. Bottom line said hope to see you soon. Hope it reopens soon, our favorite place.

[StarbuckSammy]

Hope it is only a temporary situation.....

[gomoho]

Good news - it needed a good cleaning - hope that is what they are referring to. Maybe the new manager got an eye-full!

[spk7951]

I have heard from one person that works at Havana CC that Kris is gone from the restaurant but have not been able to confirm that.

[Bonny]

My hubby was working there today.
Kris is still there. Can't imagine who or why anyone would say he is gone.
Rumors, rumors. :sad:

[golf2140]

Went by one hour ago. Sign outside read, closed today, repoen Wednesday at 11 A.M.

[spk7951]

My hubby was working there today.
Kris is still there. Can't imagine who or why anyone would say he is gone.
Rumors, rumors. :sad:

Well I do have faith in the person who told me that he was gone and that she is not spreading rumors. But time will tell and his lease is up soon.

[Bonny]

Well I do have faith in the person who told me that he was gone and that she is not spreading rumors. But time will tell and his lease is up soon.

Again, who ever is telling you this really has no idea what they are talking about.

[Fourpar]

Good news - it needed a good cleaning - hope that is what they are referring to. Maybe the new manager got an eye-full!

...Could that be the result of state inspection perhaps? Just curious. Don't see many restaurants needing to close for "a good cleaning" after only 4 - 5 years operation. Makes no sense, INMO. More to it than that I suspect.

[gomoho]

Bonny - someone I know was in the restaurant and the new manager introduced themself as the new manager - the plot thickens!!!

[Bonny]

Bonny - someone I know was in the restaurant and the new manager introduced themself as the new manager - the plot thickens!!!

Yes, that would have been Charlie.

[ROCKETMAN]

They had a broken pipe, thats why it was closed. Talked to the guy fixing it monday afternoon. No idea on the management issues.

[skip0358]

Chris is the owner.

[Golfingnut]

ggggeeeeezzzzz. Really!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! If you go to this club for food before Chris and Charlie are both gone, enter at you own risk. After years of the same old BS, I see no change in site. Keep me posted if it get tolerable.

[elevatorman]

Click on the date of inspection to see violations. I see the inspectors were there 3 days in a row. https://www.myfloridalicense.com/inspectionDates.asp?SID=&id=3930557

[dgammon6]

Had lunch there today, met the new manager, Charlie Brown. He spent several minutes at our table. According to Charlie, changes are coming. Lunch was very good.

[skip0358]

ggggeeeeezzzzz. Really!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! If you go to this club for food before Chris and Charlie are both gone, enter at you own risk. After years of the same old BS, I see no change in site. Keep me posted if it get tolerable.

Yep

[DougB]

Had lunch there today, met the new manager, Charlie Brown. He spent several minutes at our table. According to Charlie, changes are coming. Lunch was very good.

He bringing in Lucy and Linus?

[graciegirl]

He bringing in Lucy and Linus?


Just Snoopy.

[Russ_Boston]

Just another case of people saying crap that they have no real idea is the truth. I trust Bonny - when it comes to TV restaurants, she's the only authority you need. Thanks Bonny for bringing sanity and facts.

[Fourpar]

Just another case of people saying crap that they have no real idea is the truth. I trust Bonny - when it comes to TV restaurants, she's the only authority you need. Thanks Bonny for bringing sanity and facts.

Really?
Guess the inspectors have no clue, nor do many of us who have repeatedly tried the place since opening and been disappointed every time. Too bad 'cause the facility really is beautiful.
Hope someone comes along who can make a go of it one of these days.

[Russ_Boston]

Really?
Guess the inspectors have no clue, nor do many of us who have repeatedly tried the place since opening and been disappointed every time. Too bad 'cause the facility really is beautiful.
Hope someone comes along who can make a go of it one of these days.

Yes really - The OP said it was closed for a day and some jump to: it's dirty check out it's inspection report or "The plot thickens" or "the lease was up".

It was closed for a quick repair.

No one asked about opinions on their food or their management. The OP asked if anyone knew why it was closed and we get speculation instead of fact. So YES REALLY.

[Bonny]

Just another case of people saying crap that they have no real idea is the truth. I trust Bonny - when it comes to TV restaurants, she's the only authority you need. Thanks Bonny for bringing sanity and facts.


Thanks Russ. I really try to make sure I have some correct info before I post.

[golf2140]

Just another case of people saying crap that they have no real idea is the truth. I trust Bonny - when it comes to TV restaurants, she's the only authority you need. Thanks Bonny for bringing sanity and facts.

I agree, Bonny has always been spot on.

[loonlovers]

I did look at the link "Elevator Man" provided in his post. There certainly was a lot of inspection activity that took place. I"m not an expert but it seemed that there were several "major violations."

Six of us ate there on Saturday, June 1. Our first impression was that there were only a handful of cars in the parking lot. We were discussing whether the restaurant was closed (about 7:30) when a very friendly waitress told us that the restaurant was indeed open and if we sat on the patio she guaranteed exceptional service! She also mentioned that there was a new menu and that we'd all be happy with our food! Big mistake....we were alone on the patio and there were only two groups in the dining room and both had already eaten.

Finally at shortly after 9:00 our food came out with great apologies from our waitress who was really trying. Of the six meals three were "comped" since two were cold and the person with the salad had dressing that had turned bad. The manager was very apologetic but nevertheless our dining experience was a disaster. All of us tipped our waitress as though we were charged for our meals. The disaster wasn't her fault but surely rested in the kitchen.

We had tried Havana that evening after all of us had a prior bad experience. We all agreed that we would not be returning. Now with these inspection reports, we will never return. Too bad since this is a convenient and nicely appointed dining room. Someone needs to make serious changes there.

I regret having to write such a negative post but sometimes things need to be said (and heard) for change to take place. Let's hope this happens.

[gomoho]

When is the owner going to wake up and smell the coffee???

[jtdraig]

Bonny - someone I know was in the restaurant and the new manager introduced themself as the new manager - the plot thickens!!!

A manager is a manager. The key here is the OWNER. :beer3:

[Skip]

Had lunch there today, met the new manager, Charlie Brown. He spent several minutes at our table. According to Charlie, changes are coming. Lunch was very good.

Charlie Brown? Ha! That's not his real name. He uses that name because he owned a restaurant years ago called Charlie Brown's. I guess he could use Peaches too. But that's not too macho, is it?

If anyone can fix this restaurant, he can. That is, if Kris and Diana Brown (owners and no relation to Charlie) gives him a free hand at running it. It had a lot of promise when George Stella was involved when it opened in November of 2008. It went downhill from there.

We look forward to the changes.

Skip

[sonny1g]

Just went by Havana Restaurant. There is a note on the door that they are closed Temp. for maintainance. Bottom line said hope to see you soon. Hope it reopens soon, our favorite place.

I heard it was closed by the Board of Health after an inspection...who knows...it certainly has had it share of problems...perhaps a new owner would be best..

[yabbadu]

Doesn't suprise me..Went there after golf. Sat outside as the manager said we could. Then had waitresses argueing that they were tired and did not want to wait on any more tables. After talking to two managers we finally got service after 30 minutes. Food was OK. Management made offending waitress apologize.Place has gone downhill since our previous visit. So hope they do change management!

[DougB]

Weak management! Apologize? They should have been fired.

[Bill32]

Click on the date of inspection to see violations. I see the inspectors were there 3 days in a row. https://www.myfloridalicense.com/inspectionDates.asp?SID=&id=3930557

If anyone is interested WHY Havane was shut down go to the link above and click on the relevant dates and you will see why. I realize many here try to support our local businesses and I do also but the facts are the facts. That said lets hope the new manager can turn this club around so we all can honestly enjoy it.

https://www.myfloridalicense.com/inspectionDates.asp?SID=&id=3930557

[Julie in Fruitland]

Good news - it needed a good cleaning - hope that is what they are referring to. Maybe the new manager got an eye-full!

Yes a good cleaning is what they needed. I heard that the health department closed them down until they pass inspection.

[Julie in Fruitland]

5 minute update lol. They did pass inspection and are now open. Forget my previous post.

[DougB]

All the roaches gone, wonder if the food will lose any flavor

[jblum315]

All the roaches gone, wonder if the food will lose any flavor

Didn't have any to begin with

[Matt and Gail]

If anyone is interested WHY Havane was shut down go to the link above and click on the relevant dates and you will see why. I realize many here try to support our local businesses and I do also but the facts are the facts. That said lets hope the new manager can turn this club around so we all can honestly enjoy it.

https://www.myfloridalicense.com/inspectionDates.asp?SID=&id=3930557

Thanks for the great information. We had a large group heading there this morning, but now diverting for another place. Once they get management who can see this stuff (that anyone could spot) we might go back, but to many other good places to take any chances.

[ssmith]

Maybe there were some sort of bugs or critters:shrug:

The inspection report said he had not called an exterminator yet.

That was not the latest though....it sounded like the report said this was now

taken care of.

[Patty55]

After reading the ispection reports I regret that I gave this place a second chance.

[Bill32]

Being around the restaurant business in a previous life it was known you couldn't wait for a roach to be seen you had to have ongoing pest control.
That cost money and if you aren't making any the business will cut corners.
A CC owner that I'm friends with said any eating establishment in Fl. can have "a" roach from time to time but if you let it get to the infestation stage than it can put you out of business.
Also at my friends CC all of the wait staff has to pass a food handling certification and the kitchen staff have a more stringent certification to meet.
I think the lack of these were also mentioned in Havana's report.

I have to say we ate there the first week they opened and the menu sounded great but the food had very little flavor. We went back numerous times throughout the years each time we were told it has changed but were disappointed to find that it hasn't.
I believe most of the restaurant owners, managers read these blogs so they're not oblivious to how the patrons feel about their establishment.

[johnboy]

Our last visit, terrible service, out of beer, not a good place to take someone to show them the plus side of "The Villages"

[Patty55]

Being around the restaurant business in a previous life it was known you couldn't wait for a roach to be seen you had to have ongoing pest control.
That cost money and if you aren't making any the business will cut corners.
A CC owner that I'm friends with said any eating establishment in Fl. can have "a" roach from time to time but if you let it get to the infestation stage than it can put you out of business.
Also at my friends CC all of the wait staff has to pass a food handling certification and the kitchen staff have a more stringent certification to meet.
I think the lack of these were also mentioned in Havana's report.

I have to say we ate there the first week they opened and the menu sounded great but the food had very little flavor. We went back numerous times throughout the years each time we were told it has changed but were disappointed to find that it hasn't.
I believe most of the restaurant owners, managers read these blogs so they're not oblivious to how the patrons feel about their establishment.

It seems obvious to me that the owners just don't care. How many times do you have to be told there is mold in the ice maker before you clean it? How many times do you have to be told to get a new cutting board? How about cross-contamination of food? It's easy to blame the staff, but IMO the owner needs to step up to the plate and do what needs to be done.

[Challenger]

This establishment is in mortal danger and the location could be tainted for years. IMO, nothing short of new ownership(not a sham transfer) will make a difference. I have great respect for the business savy of the "developer" and this problem needs immediate attention, lest it reflect badly on the community and other clubs.

[jblum315]

It makes me so sad and angry that Havana is such a mess because I live practically next door and would probably go there almost every day.

[gomoho]

If the cc owners read these blogs than the owner of Havanna must be very, very dense. Continuously being slammed on this site and an empty parking lot and restaurant should certainly tell him he needs to do something other than continuously hiring new managers. Or maybe he should hire a manager and get out of his way???

[carm310]

It is sad, when they first opened it was a nice place to go. The food was pretty good at the time but the music, atmosphere and good times is what kept us coming back. We have not been in over a year. It would be nice if they could get their act together.

[graciegirl]

This establishment is in mortal danger and the location could be tainted for years. IMO, nothing short of new ownership(not a sham transfer) will make a difference. I have great respect for the business savy of the "developer" and this problem needs immediate attention, lest it reflect badly on the community and other clubs.

It appears it has already done that. Reflect badly. I have had a bad impression from the very first month they were opened and appeared to let the chef go who was supposedly famous and the preopening advertisement draw.

The folks who OWN the building (The developers) are in a lease agreement with the people who own the restaurant business and I hope that I am counting correctly and that they have a five year lease that should be up this fall. It is a WONDERFUL location for someone who knows how to do it. I don't get down on things too often but that place is on my avoid list.

You are so right, they must know how badly they fare from criticisms on this forum, and they don't seem to care enough to clean up their act and do something different. I wonder what restaurant they had before Havana?

[spk7951]

It appears it has already done that. Reflect badly. I have had a bad impression from the very first month they were opened and appeared to let the chef go who was supposedly famous and the preopening advertisement draw.

The folks who OWN the building (The developers) are in a lease agreement with the people who own the restaurant business and I hope that I am counting correctly and that they have a five year lease that should be up this fall. It is a WONDERFUL location for someone who knows how to do it. I don't get down on things too often but that place is on my avoid list.

You are so right, they must know how badly they fare from criticisms on this forum, and they don't seem to care enough to clean up their act and do something different. I wonder what restaurant they had before Havana?


Kris Brown previously was the general manager of Park Plaza Gardens restaurant in Winter Park, at least that is what I found when doing a web search. As to the lease at the restaurant I have heard that there is a five year lease in effect from the latter part of 2008. Now for the disclaimer; while one of the folks telling me about the lease is a former manager at Havana I have no concrete proof to support it.

[Bonny]

Yes, Kris used to be at Park Plaza. I'm fairly sure he has already signed the new lease at Havana.

[memason]

Yes, Kris used to be at Park Plaza. I'm fairly sure he has already signed the new lease at Havana.

I sure hope this isn't the case, otherwise we are in for 5 more years of these types of posts.

Whatever the case, I predict a failed business within the next year.

[LndLocked]

Yes, Kris used to be at Park Plaza. I'm fairly sure he has already signed the new lease at Havana.

Interesting that this location apparently continues to have problems as the Park Plaza Gardens has been for many years and continues to be an outstanding restaurant.

How long has he been at Havana?

[KathieI]

Yes, Kris used to be at Park Plaza. I'm fairly sure he has already signed the new lease at Havana.

I sure hope this isn't the case, otherwise we are in for 5 more years of these types of posts.

Whatever the case, I predict a failed business within the next year.

Oh pleaseeee, Bonny, don't tell me this is true. I've been waiting at least the past 3 years to get this guy out. He and I do not get along because we've been telling him what's wrong with his place for 3 years. He will NOT listen, nor does he care. He's lost everyone in that place that was good and cared about running a nice, happy, clean restaurant. When it first opened, I was there almost every day and night. It was a fantastic environment and then he started firing people around him and then others left because they couldn't put up with him any longer. Now its a shell of what it used to be and its getting worse.

Please, please lets hope he's out and some one who knows how to run it is in...

[Bonny]

Interesting that this location apparently continues to have problems as the Park Plaza Gardens has been for many years and continues to be an outstanding restaurant.

How long has he been at Havana?

I believe Kris has been there right from the beginning.
Mike & Gina who own City Fire have been over seeing Park Plaza Gardens.

[xkeowner]

Villagers love rumors, so let me start one. A search of the Florida Department of Business Regulation website shows two listings at the Havana Club address. The first is the current business identified as “Havana Club.” The second listing is identified as “Havana Country Club Restaurant” and a status of “Application in progress.” It shows the License Location Address as 2484 Odell Cir The Villages, FL 32162. However the Main Address is 11608 Carmody Ct Orlando, FL 32837. A Google search of that address results in it being a residence, but also the location of Laid Back Gator, Inc.. Another Google search identifies David Hoefer as Director, President, Secretary, Treasurer and Principal at Laid Back Gator, Inc. At least this is a name not previously identified with Havana as far as I know.

I checked several other country clubs including the recently closed Orange Blossom Hills and none has an application in progress. World of Beer, coming soon to Brownwood, also has an application in progress. We can only hope this is more than rumor and change is coming soon.

[PaPaLarry]

I really agree!! This man does not belong in business. He must have lots of money, because I don't think he's making much, or holding on to his help

[DougB]

I guess even bad publicity is good publicity. We have never been to Havana, but now with all the negative posts, my wife is asking to go there to see if it is as bad as everyone says. Geez, thanks guys!

[ilovetv]

We reluctantly went there for lunch on the patio one afternoon 4 weeks ago. The reason we were reluctant was because twice after golf the week before, there was NO BEER. It's so ridiculous!!!!

Personally, if I were working there as I did as a server (elsewhere) for years, if my regulars came in after golf and there was no beer for them, I would have gotten my arse into my car or onto my golf cart and whizzed around the corner to Walgreens to get a couple of 12-packs in 5 minutes flat.

BUT, that would take initiative and a willingness to get off one's butt to please their patron. Apparently no bartender, server nor manager knew nor cared that in a pinch, there is beer one could buy around the corner, at Walgreens, Publix, etc.

So, getting back to our last attempt 4 weeks ago.....when we sat down we were greeted by a server with a work ethic and brains. When we stated our reluctance to come back, she assured us she would make sure we got good food and service, and then carefully said, "Well....we finally are getting a new manager, and finally it's the right combination of what it takes: A woman.....and she's New Yorker".

So if that was the case, this woman supposedly hired to manage either had the b@ll$ to not put up with the owner who seems to like wasting one of the best locations/physical plants in all of TV and she quit.....or the owner decided not to hire her because she might want to have money to pay for cleaning, ongoing pest control, and enough petty cash on hand to run to Walgreens and buy a couple of 12-packs in a pinch, when they run out of beer!!

How can TV and developers POSSIBLY sign another lease with this kind of lame-brain outfit infecting the place for 5 years now???

[Golfingnut]

I guess even bad publicity is good publicity. We have never been to Havana, but now with all the negative posts, my wife is asking to go there to see if it is as bad as everyone says. Geez, thanks guys!

I have had good food at havana but I have had a lot of bad meals also.

[skip0358]

I hope the rumor of him renewing the lease isn't true. Used to go there ALL the time as it's only up the block. Spoke with Kris many times and defended the place as many times. Hate to say I haven't been there in quite some time as there are to many other places although not as close as Havana. Great location, nice decor, love the outside area but had to leave.

[Mikeod]

I sure hope this isn't the case, otherwise we are in for 5 more years of these types of posts.

Whatever the case, I predict a failed business within the next year.

It's a self-fulfilling prophecy. Bad restaurant leads to fewer patrons leads to reduced revenue leads to poorer meals and service leads to fewer patrons which ends in failure. Although it appears it has already failed.

Whoever takes over that place, if it does change hands, has a real mountain of an uphill climb to regain our business. When it first opened, they had a prime rib special that was excellent. Somewhat later, we stopped in after golf for lunch and they had a hot dog special with quarter pound hot dogs for lunch. A few of the guys ordered the special. They got two regular hot dogs, not the quarter pound dogs. And no notice so they could have changed their orders. We asked what happened and they told us they ran out. It was noon!! And Publix is just down the street. Geez, just send someone down and buy some.

[DougB]

...

[johndamelio]

Get ready for the "singing servers".

[George Stella]

I miss Havana and The Villages--for sure!

[buzzy]

Thanks, George

[damily]

[I] RECENTLY received an email with a copy of a recent State inspection of Havana attached. Repeated, repeated voilations for filth, fire hazards and cock roaches, cock roaches and more cockroaches. Stated they were all repeat offenses. We wont eat there any longer - their food, and service is severely lacking compared to other restaurants.

[DavidHoe]

Okay folks...recently a few folks have posted facts on here about a few things related to Havana...and for the most part they know not of what they speak, so please let me enlighten you.

I am the David Hoefer that a few people have mentioned in recent posts in regards to Havana. Yes, I was the original Assistant General Manager when the restaurant first opened. Yes, I am a lifelong friend of Kris Brown the owner at Havana. Other than that, and the information shown in regards to my address and previous corporation information, the truth seems to take a dubious bend. The reason my previous corporations address and information is shown associated with Havana is that my previous company owned and operated a food truck/trailer and I used Havana as the central location/commisary where the state inspectors could view the trailer. The state requires food trucks/trailers to have a "commissary" for grease disposal, etc, hence why my trailer was there. Nothing more, nothing less. I currently have, have never had, and have no intent to go into any licensing or lease within The Villages or at Havana. Please know that all food trucks/trailers have the same requirements and use a variety of restaurants for that purpose.

I will not get in to any mud slinging about the situation up there. One post by "someone in the know" stated that Kris fired me and that is 110% FALSE!! I chose to leave for my own reasons and nothing more. I know that Kris is a fine restarateur, and I would be more than happy to enter into a restaurant partnership with him at anytime if I was lucky enough to be extended that opportunity.

Running a restaurant is a very tough business. Most restaurants do not last a year. Kris has kept Havana up and running through incredibly dire economic times for 5 years now. Quite an achievement. Despite multiple attempts by multiple people with personal vendettas to make Havana fail, it's doors will open again today.

Restaurants average a yearly turnover rate of 44% or thereabouts. So when a few of you say, all the owner is doing is bringing in new managers, that is true of most restaurants. Hopefully you find the right chemistry between guests, staff and management. The few that keep managers and staff for any real length of time are few and far between.

One thing I find ironically funny is that in my many years in the hospitality industry, I have heard these words often from guests..."I have never worked a day in a restaurant, but let me tell you how to fix yours". Did anyone ever tell you that about your business? Probably not! Words to chew on.

[Bonny]

Okay folks...recently a few folks have posted facts on here about a few things related to Havana...and for the most part they know not of what they speak, so please let me enlighten you.

I am the David Hoefer that a few people have mentioned in recent posts in regards to Havana. Yes, I was the original Assistant General Manager when the restaurant first opened. Yes, I am a lifelong friend of Kris Brown the owner at Havana. Other than that, and the information shown in regards to my address and previous corporation information, the truth seems to take a dubious bend. The reason my previous corporations address and information is shown associated with Havana is that my previous company owned and operated a food truck/trailer and I used Havana as the central location/commisary where the state inspectors could view the trailer. The state requires food trucks/trailers to have a "commissary" for grease disposal, etc, hence why my trailer was there. Nothing more, nothing less. I currently have, have never had, and have no intent to go into any licensing or lease within The Villages or at Havana. Please know that all food trucks/trailers have the same requirements and use a variety of restaurants for that purpose.

I will not get in to any mud slinging about the situation up there. One post by "someone in the know" stated that Kris fired me and that is 110% FALSE!! I chose to leave for my own reasons and nothing more. I know that Kris is a fine restarateur, and I would be more than happy to enter into a restaurant partnership with him at anytime if I was lucky enough to be extended that opportunity.

Running a restaurant is a very tough business. Most restaurants do not last a year. Kris has kept Havana up and running through incredibly dire economic times for 5 years now. Quite an achievement. Despite multiple attempts by multiple people with personal vendettas to make Havana fail, it's doors will open again today.

Restaurants average a yearly turnover rate of 44% or thereabouts. So when a few of you say, all the owner is doing is bringing in new managers, that is true of most restaurants. Hopefully you find the right chemistry between guests, staff and management. The few that keep managers and staff for any real length of time are few and far between.

One thing I find ironically funny is that in my many years in the hospitality industry, I have heard these words often from guests..."I have never worked a day in a restaurant, but let me tell you how to fix yours". Did anyone ever tell you that about your business? Probably not! Words to chew on.
:BigApplause:

[skip0358]

The plot thickens. Maybe, just maybe ALL of us who have complained about Havana should give them another try. I understand from someone who works there things have changed and for the better. Maybe he deserves another chance to see IF it's true. Game on, whose up to the challenge? Try it and report back. JMO

[Bonny]

Yep, we go there. Hubby works there quite a bit helping to get everything all ship shape.

[gomoho]

Running a restaurant is a very tough business. Most restaurants do not last a year. Kris has kept Havana up and running through incredibly dire economic times for 5 years now. Quite an achievement. Despite multiple attempts by multiple people with personal vendettas to make Havana fail, it's doors will open again today.


I don't believe The Villages experienced the hard economic times for 5 years that you speak of - remember the lines this winter to get into restuarants???

[DougB]

:popcorn: :popcorn::popcorn:

[Russ_Boston]

Dire times for 5 years in TV? Don't think so.

Went to Evans last night and the outside patio was almost full and the inside seating was about 50%. Not bad for the slowest night of the week in one of the slowest times of the year in TV. It's about service and quality (and cleanliness)

But I'll give Havana another try - just not anytime soon.

[ilovetv]

"Running a restaurant is a very tough business. Most restaurants do not last a year. Kris has kept Havana up and running through incredibly dire economic times for 5 years now. Quite an achievement. Despite multiple attempts by multiple people with personal vendettas to make Havana fail, it's doors will open again today."

"Incredibly dire economic times for 5 years now".....in The Villages?????

Anybody with eyes can see that the market here in TV has been almost immune to the slump the rest of the nation has been in. Any person running restaurants and food service should know the facts contained in The Villages Commercial Property website linked below.

Anyone doing business here should know a couple of key facts about the "economic times" of the people here who would LIKE to frequent Havana CC, but have been served food literally unfit for a dog within the same week in which we had really good food and decent service!

If anybody has caused dire economic straits at Havana, it's been the management itself, that has allowed this sloppy customer service to continue for so long.

Take a look at the "incredibly dire economics" of the customers of Havana CC and all its competitor clubs here:

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=16676&stc=1&d=1372860291

16677

The excuse of "incredibly dire economic times" in TV and right around Havana is incredibly lame. For one thing, it is surrounded by hundreds of homes that cost over $200,000 with many being over $500,000, and they're filled with people who have money who do not want to cook and they have disposable income to go out to dine 4-5 times a week, at least!

The lameness of this claim explains EVERYTHING about why Havana has been dying for 5 years!

And by the way, I have worked in restaurants and know it's no easy job, but that's why you have to look for staff with brains that look at facts and listen to the customer!

And hire staff that have the brains and ambition to go over to Walgreens in 2 minutes flat and buy some 12-packs of BEER instead of telling golfers coming in from 18 holes in 90 degree heat that "we're out of beer"!!

[Russ_Boston]

Great rant:) Love it!

Especially the run over to Walgreens (or Publix for that matter) idea. Idiotic to say you are out of something so basic. Maybe no draft beer (bad pumps etc.) but you could at least say "But we do have some nice ice cold cans and bottles!"

[Golfingnut]

"Incredibly dire economic times for 5 years now".....in The Villages?????

Anybody with eyes can see that the market here in TV has been almost immune to the slump the rest of the nation has been in. Any person running restaurants and food service should know the facts contained in The Villages Commercial Property website linked below.

Anyone doing business here should know a couple of key facts about the "economic times" of the people here who would LIKE to frequent Havana CC, but have been served food literally unfit for a dog within the same week in which we had really good food and decent service!

If anybody has caused dire economic straits at Havana, it's been the management itself, that has allowed this sloppy customer service to continue for so long.

Take a look at the "incredibly dire economics" of the customers of Havana CC and all its competitor clubs here:

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=16676&stc=1&d=1372860291

16677

The excuse of "incredibly dire economic times" in TV and right around Havana is incredibly lame. For one thing, it is surrounded by hundreds of homes that cost over $200,000 with many being over $500,000, and they're filled with people who have money who do not want to cook and they have disposable income to go out to dine 4-5 times a week, at least!

The lameness of this claim explains EVERYTHING about why Havana has been dying for 5 years!

And by the way, I have worked in restaurants and know it's no easy job, but that's why you have to look for staff with brains that look at facts and listen to the customer!

And hire staff that have the brains and ambition to go over to Walgreens in 2 minutes flat and buy some 12-packs of BEER instead of telling golfers coming in from 18 holes in 90 degree heat that "we're out of beer"!!


Well thanks for nothing!

Before reading the info in the charts you put up, I thought I was doing great. Sigh!!! Anyone know who is hiring in The Villages.


Only kidding. Nice information. I did think the average income would be less here since so many complain about the price of beer

[ilovetv]

Well thanks for nothing!

Before reading the info in the charts you put up, I thought I was doing great. Sigh!!! Anyone know who is hiring in The Villages.


Only kidding. Nice information. I did think the average income would be less here since so many complain about the price of beer

“We are not rich by what we possess but by what we can do without.”

― Immanuel Kant

And many of us here in TV are doing very nicely without those great big houses....I mean Money Pits!!

[Golfingnut]

“We are not rich by what we possess but by what we can do without.”

― Immanuel Kant

You must have picked that silly tidbit up at Woodstock. LOL. Don't bogart that joint my friend.

[Golf-Tinker]

I remember the day Kris fired George.

I remember the day he fired Damon.

I remember the day he fired you.

I remember the day he fired Don.

I remember all the days he fired so many servers, bartenders, hostesses, cooks, who wanted Havana to succeed. It is difficult today not to meet many of Havana's alumni working at another Villages restaurant. They do not have fond memories of life with Kris.

It will take much more than singing wannabes to lure me into giving him some of my hard-earned dollars.

[Golfingnut]

I remember the day Kris fired George.

I remember the day he fired Damon.

I remember the day he fired you.

I remember the day he fired Don.

I remember all the days he fired so many servers, bartenders, hostesses, cooks, who wanted Havana to succeed. It is difficult today not to meet many of Havana's alumni working at another Villages restaurant. They do not have fond memories of life with Kris.

It will take much more than singing wannabes to lure me into giving him some of my hard-earned dollars.

Wow... I have no doubt you speak like kemosabi on this, BUT I want this club to be better because it is so close and such nice atmospher.

[ilovetv]

I remember the day Kris fired George.

I remember the day he fired Damon.

I remember the day he fired you.

I remember the day he fired Don.

I remember all the days he fired so many servers, bartenders, hostesses, cooks, who wanted Havana to succeed. It is difficult today not to meet many of Havana's alumni working at another Villages restaurant. They do not have fond memories of life with Kris.

It will take much more than singing wannabes to lure me into giving him some of my hard-earned dollars.

The pattern of firing motivated employees listed above sounds like further proof that

"Money can't buy class."!!!!

[hdandydon]

Closed due to health reasons, roaches i was told.

[PaPaLarry]

:BigApplause:"Incredibly dire economic times for 5 years now".....in The Villages?????

Anybody with eyes can see that the market here in TV has been almost immune to the slump the rest of the nation has been in. Any person running restaurants and food service should know the facts contained in The Villages Commercial Property website linked below.

Anyone doing business here should know a couple of key facts about the "economic times" of the people here who would LIKE to frequent Havana CC, but have been served food literally unfit for a dog within the same week in which we had really good food and decent service!

If anybody has caused dire economic straits at Havana, it's been the management itself, that has allowed this sloppy customer service to continue for so long.

Take a look at the "incredibly dire economics" of the customers of Havana CC and all its competitor clubs here:

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=16676&stc=1&d=1372860291

16677

The excuse of "incredibly dire economic times" in TV and right around Havana is incredibly lame. For one thing, it is surrounded by hundreds of homes that cost over $200,000 with many being over $500,000, and they're filled with people who have money who do not want to cook and they have disposable income to go out to dine 4-5 times a week, at least!

The lameness of this claim explains EVERYTHING about why Havana has been dying for 5 years!

And by the way, I have worked in restaurants and know it's no easy job, but that's why you have to look for staff with brains that look at facts and listen to the customer!

And hire staff that have the brains and ambition to go over to Walgreens in 2 minutes flat and buy some 12-packs of BEER instead of telling golfers coming in from 18 holes in 90 degree heat that "we're out of beer"!!

[DavidHoe]

:BigApplause:

Already someone that supposedly worked there, "remembers the day he fired me". The 70s were pretty good to me, but I am pretty sure, I would remember if I had been fired. Take it for what it is worth from another person in the know!

To the person who stated something to the effect of, "you take two minutes and run over to Walgreens to pick up beer", would also mean that you have broken Florida liquor laws, and that would just be something else you could heap on Kris for doing "wrong".

The Villagers are a very lucrative collection of residents. The Villages itself however is not immune to the openings and closings of both privately held, chain and franchise restaurants. Competition from within does not aid the pre-existing clubs.

One of the bigger issues in The Villages is the Villagers themselves. There is a fine line between entitlement and discerning. As stated before, I have been in the restaurant business for many years now. I have never faced the challenges anywhere that I did there, and that is one of the reasons I chose to leave working there. A few incidents stay in immediate memory because of how ludicrous the guests were but there were many. Starting pre-opening...we were actually doing mass interviews and a group of residents stroll in and walk to the kitchen to show their friends "their club". When I say a group, I mean somewhere between 12-15 strangers just doing what they pleased. Really? Another incident, a gentleman came in one morning right after we started serving breakfast. He asked for a table at 12:15 for lunch for his golf group of 12 men. I agreed to his request and he agreed to call me when they were teeing off on 17 so we could start the process. Well, 2:45 rolls around and his table that we saved for an extended period of time was now in use with no immediate chance of his group which had now grown to 20 being seated. Even though he did not hold up to any portion of his agreement, somehow we were in the wrong...up to the point that he chest bumped me when I asked him to leave due to his cursing and shouting. All his "friends" could do was tell me "he gets like that when he has been drinking and his golf game is off". Really? Another incident that jumps to mind is the weekend group that grew on one visit from 21 to 54 people in the matter of an hour or two, and then I get verbally abused by the group leader when I couldn't provide them with the level of service a "paying group of this size deserved". Lets start with the fact that most restaurants without true banquet facilities cannot even handle a group that large pre-planned, but a walkup crowd that constantly moved from seat to seat as other new friends joined in, yet somehow when my server can't remember one person who has moved to three different seats location and therfore a drink doesnt get delivered in a timely manner. THEN, you want 27 different checks also in a timely manner. Really?

Someone will post that other places handle those type crowds, and many of those that have tried in The Villages are no longer in business. I could go on and on and on about incidents unique to that area, but I won't. I have worked everywhere in the business from owning my own beer/wine pub to high end dining and everything in between. Dealt with tourists from all over the world, far wealthier clientele than The Villagers, and the salt of the earth locals, and nowhere have I found a more demanding (not discerning) collection of individuals as reside in The Villages. Those of you who have your minds made up will continue to badmouth Havana, Kris, and probably me now that I have spoken up. That is your right, but please before using my name or Kris', please know the facts. Since Kris is the only person up there that I continue to keep in contact with, anyone who states a fact relating to me is flat out lying. Plain and simple. Hopefully many of you will take a step back, and give Havana another chance. Since my blood pressure goes through the roof when I read lies and half truths and "facts" from folks whose only experience in the business is eating, I will not continue to post on this forum. The facts from me are absolute from within, not from a friend of a friend of a friend who read something online and had a bad meal there once and chooses to jump on the beating up bandwagon.

There is a difference between opinion and vindictiveness. If you don't like Havana, then don't go there, but WHY you folks find it your mission in life to beat up restaurants up there is beyond me. If you don't like a TV show, most folks change the channel. Consider doing the same. Change to another location, but do not continue to beat up those that honestly you have no real reason to. You just had a bad meal or two or bad service a time or two or you were a big chunk of the reason your experience was bad (see previous incidents of groups in The Villages) and you just don't want to admit it. But stop with the bashing, it serves NO ONE well except your own ego to see your opinion in print. Really!!

[Bonny]

Already someone that supposedly worked there, "remembers the day he fired me". The 70s were pretty good to me, but I am pretty sure, I would remember if I had been fired. Take it for what it is worth from another person in the know!

To the person who stated something to the effect of, "you take two minutes and run over to Walgreens to pick up beer", would also mean that you have broken Florida liquor laws, and that would just be something else you could heap on Kris for doing "wrong".

The Villagers are a very lucrative collection of residents. The Villages itself however is not immune to the openings and closings of both privately held, chain and franchise restaurants. Competition from within does not aid the pre-existing clubs.

One of the bigger issues in The Villages is the Villagers themselves. There is a fine line between entitlement and discerning. As stated before, I have been in the restaurant business for many years now. I have never faced the challenges anywhere that I did there, and that is one of the reasons I chose to leave working there. A few incidents stay in immediate memory because of how ludicrous the guests were but there were many. Starting pre-opening...we were actually doing mass interviews and a group of residents stroll in and walk to the kitchen to show their friends "their club". When I say a group, I mean somewhere between 12-15 strangers just doing what they pleased. Really? Another incident, a gentleman came in one morning right after we started serving breakfast. He asked for a table at 12:15 for lunch for his golf group of 12 men. I agreed to his request and he agreed to call me when they were teeing off on 17 so we could start the process. Well, 2:45 rolls around and his table that we saved for an extended period of time was now in use with no immediate chance of his group which had now grown to 20 being seated. Even though he did not hold up to any portion of his agreement, somehow we were in the wrong...up to the point that he chest bumped me when I asked him to leave due to his cursing and shouting. All his "friends" could do was tell me "he gets like that when he has been drinking and his golf game is off". Really? Another incident that jumps to mind is the weekend group that grew on one visit from 21 to 54 people in the matter of an hour or two, and then I get verbally abused by the group leader when I couldn't provide them with the level of service a "paying group of this size deserved". Lets start with the fact that most restaurants without true banquet facilities cannot even handle a group that large pre-planned, but a walkup crowd that constantly moved from seat to seat as other new friends joined in, yet somehow when my server can't remember one person who has moved to three different seats location and therfore a drink doesnt get delivered in a timely manner. THEN, you want 27 different checks also in a timely manner. Really?

Someone will post that other places handle those type crowds, and many of those that have tried in The Villages are no longer in business. I could go on and on and on about incidents unique to that area, but I won't. I have worked everywhere in the business from owning my own beer/wine pub to high end dining and everything in between. Dealt with tourists from all over the world, far wealthier clientele than The Villagers, and the salt of the earth locals, and nowhere have I found a more demanding (not discerning) collection of individuals as reside in The Villages. Those of you who have your minds made up will continue to badmouth Havana, Kris, and probably me now that I have spoken up. That is your right, but please before using my name or Kris', please know the facts. Since Kris is the only person up there that I continue to keep in contact with, anyone who states a fact relating to me is flat out lying. Plain and simple. Hopefully many of you will take a step back, and give Havana another chance. Since my blood pressure goes through the roof when I read lies and half truths and "facts" from folks whose only experience in the business is eating, I will not continue to post on this forum. The facts from me are absolute from within, not from a friend of a friend of a friend who read something online and had a bad meal there once and chooses to jump on the beating up bandwagon.

There is a difference between opinion and vindictiveness. If you don't like Havana, then don't go there, but WHY you folks find it your mission in life to beat up restaurants up there is beyond me. If you don't like a TV show, most folks change the channel. Consider doing the same. Change to another location, but do not continue to beat up those that honestly you have no real reason to. You just had a bad meal or two or bad service a time or two or you were a big chunk of the reason your experience was bad (see previous incidents of groups in The Villages) and you just don't want to admit it. But stop with the bashing, it serves NO ONE well except your own ego to see your opinion in print. Really!!
I totally agree. There are a few restaurants that I don't like for what ever reason. If I don't like it, I just don't go. I don't want them to close because some people like them, they just aren't my cup of tea. To get on here & work so hard to try to get everyone to hate a place hoping they will close is beyond my realm of thinking. I just don't get it. Move on ! Go where you like & be happy !!!
Really, life is just to short. What amazes me is most people really don't have a clue.

[Bonny]

Great rant:) Love it!

Especially the run over to Walgreens (or Publix for that matter) idea. Idiotic to say you are out of something so basic. Maybe no draft beer (bad pumps etc.) but you could at least say "But we do have some nice ice cold cans and bottles!"
They can't run to Walgreens or any where else to buy beer or alcohol for a restaurant. They will lose their liquor license. Some places may take a chance and do that or borrow liquor from another restaurant, but you are definitely not suppose to do that.

[golf2140]

Havana was packed tonight!!!!! Could not get a seat in the rtestaurant.

[golf2140]

Davidhoe,

Those who complain the most go out to dinner, once a week / once a month!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Bonny]

Havana was packed tonight!!!!! Could not get a seat in the rtestaurant.
I'm so glad to hear that. I want everyone in the Villages to succeed. I don't want to see anyone close. Thank you for letting us know !:clap2:

[ilovetv]

I'll own up to being wrong to say they should've run over to Walgreens to buy beer, if that harms the liquor license (they do differ from state to state, and in private country club situations state by state). However, I see no excuse for serving a plate of food that was literally refrigerator burned and stinky, and I see no excuse for a golf course bar being out of beer in early afternoon, twice within a week. It's not like the place can't know there would be golfers coming in for drinks after starting to play golf 3-4 hours before.

And it's not about the food nor beer, because nobody's gonna starve or die of thirst here. It's the lack of interest in serving the customer, who should not be stereotyped and labeled with all Villagers as cheap, entitled, and demanding snots as a sizable number definitely are.

I've said it myself many times here that some are disgraceful in refusing to tip decently when tipped-worker minimum wage is a "whopping" $4.77 per hour, or they refuse to tip "because we were told our amenities fee covers that in TV" or other such rumored and convenient excuses.

That being said, I think Havana has used up its chances to blame people or factors other than its own management. The customers and the employees are not in a position to make decisions about hiring the right people to overhaul, or design a turnaround plan to carry out, to resurrect this business. Only the owners and competent top managers can do that.

[ilovetv]

Havana was packed tonight!!!!! Could not get a seat in the rtestaurant.

Good to hear.

[jblum315]

I think many many people really want Havana to improve and stay open. The club has such a lovely ambiance and great location.

[Russ_Boston]

They can't run to Walgreens or any where else to buy beer or alcohol for a restaurant. They will lose their liquor license. Some places may take a chance and do that or borrow liquor from another restaurant, but you are definitely not suppose to do that.

Didn't know that. Maybe some laws should be changed? Not sure how that protects anyone other than the vendors. But it is what it is. Thanks for the info.

How about making sure you buy enough in the first place. Wouldn't that still point to mismanagement concepts?

[Bonny]

Didn't know that. Maybe some laws should be changed? Not sure how that protects anyone other than the vendors. But it is what it is. Thanks for the info.

How about making sure you buy enough in the first place. Wouldn't that still point to mismanagement concepts?

Now that is a good idea !!:pepper2:

[skip0358]

In regards to running out of items I've been told by workers and managers that there is a minimum dollar amount on orders that are placed and they have to order from certain distributors only. So IF your running low on an item they still have to come up with the minimum $ amount to place an order. This can become quite costly. Recently at another favorite watering hole they were out of a few items on the bar and again was told the order had gone in but they had to get their minimum order first so they ran out. So those places that have more then one eating establishment in TV have it a little easier then the single establishment.

[784caroline]

If Havana was packed last night , tel us more......HOw was the show!!....how was the food and service???

[golf2140]

If Havana was packed last night , tel us more......HOw was the show!!....how was the food and service???

We couldn't get a table for 10. Went off campus.

[glencus]

If Havana was packed last night , tel us more......HOw was the show!!....how was the food and service???

Have the filthy roach infested conditions in the kitchen been reversed? And if so, how do we know that?

[l2ridehd]

We have a dozen CC restaurants in The Villages. They are all pretty much the same. They all have access to the same labor pool. They all buy there supplies from the same set of vendors. And actually if I had to rank the setting, facility, decor, Havana would be at or near the top. They all have access to the same customer base, same advertising, and all should be successful. We could all rank them top to bottom and the list would be pretty close. There is only one major difference between them. Management. It is really the only thing different. Management owns 100% of all problems and success with any business. And that is why Havana has failed since it opened. There is no other valid reason. And until management is changed it will continue to fail.

[Warren Kiefer]

Yes, that would have been Charlie.

So, did you lose the debate ???

[perrjojo]

I too want every club in the Villages to succeed and I too think Havana is a beautiful club. However the health reports are not bogus or malicious. That really must change to expect anyone to want to go there. Anyone can have an off night or get a bad meal or server but the Havana health reports did not happen because of a one day mess up. I would love to go back but that makes me a little worried.

[skip0358]

I know we saw the Health Dept.reports from Havana and there were issues but I bet every restaurant or club in TV has issues. If they were published w who knows how bad. they might be. In went by there tonight on the way to Leesburg and the parking lot was 1/2 full. When Orange Blossum was closing how many people complained about the filthy conditions of the rugs, floor etc. I wonder what their kitchen looked like. How many others ???/

[Bonny]

So, did you lose the debate ???

Debate ? Did I miss something ?

[Golfingnut]

Already someone that supposedly worked there, "remembers the day he fired me". The 70s were pretty good to me, but I am pretty sure, I would remember if I had been fired. Take it for what it is worth from another person in the know!

To the person who stated something to the effect of, "you take two minutes and run over to Walgreens to pick up beer", would also mean that you have broken Florida liquor laws, and that would just be something else you could heap on Kris for doing "wrong".

The Villagers are a very lucrative collection of residents. The Villages itself however is not immune to the openings and closings of both privately held, chain and franchise restaurants. Competition from within does not aid the pre-existing clubs.

One of the bigger issues in The Villages is the Villagers themselves. There is a fine line between entitlement and discerning. As stated before, I have been in the restaurant business for many years now. I have never faced the challenges anywhere that I did there, and that is one of the reasons I chose to leave working there. A few incidents stay in immediate memory because of how ludicrous the guests were but there were many. Starting pre-opening...we were actually doing mass interviews and a group of residents stroll in and walk to the kitchen to show their friends "their club". When I say a group, I mean somewhere between 12-15 strangers just doing what they pleased. Really? Another incident, a gentleman came in one morning right after we started serving breakfast. He asked for a table at 12:15 for lunch for his golf group of 12 men. I agreed to his request and he agreed to call me when they were teeing off on 17 so we could start the process. Well, 2:45 rolls around and his table that we saved for an extended period of time was now in use with no immediate chance of his group which had now grown to 20 being seated. Even though he did not hold up to any portion of his agreement, somehow we were in the wrong...up to the point that he chest bumped me when I asked him to leave due to his cursing and shouting. All his "friends" could do was tell me "he gets like that when he has been drinking and his golf game is off". Really? Another incident that jumps to mind is the weekend group that grew on one visit from 21 to 54 people in the matter of an hour or two, and then I get verbally abused by the group leader when I couldn't provide them with the level of service a "paying group of this size deserved". Lets start with the fact that most restaurants without true banquet facilities cannot even handle a group that large pre-planned, but a walkup crowd that constantly moved from seat to seat as other new friends joined in, yet somehow when my server can't remember one person who has moved to three different seats location and therfore a drink doesnt get delivered in a timely manner. THEN, you want 27 different checks also in a timely manner. Really?

Someone will post that other places handle those type crowds, and many of those that have tried in The Villages are no longer in business. I could go on and on and on about incidents unique to that area, but I won't. I have worked everywhere in the business from owning my own beer/wine pub to high end dining and everything in between. Dealt with tourists from all over the world, far wealthier clientele than The Villagers, and the salt of the earth locals, and nowhere have I found a more demanding (not discerning) collection of individuals as reside in The Villages. Those of you who have your minds made up will continue to badmouth Havana, Kris, and probably me now that I have spoken up. That is your right, but please before using my name or Kris', please know the facts. Since Kris is the only person up there that I continue to keep in contact with, anyone who states a fact relating to me is flat out lying. Plain and simple. Hopefully many of you will take a step back, and give Havana another chance. Since my blood pressure goes through the roof when I read lies and half truths and "facts" from folks whose only experience in the business is eating, I will not continue to post on this forum. The facts from me are absolute from within, not from a friend of a friend of a friend who read something online and had a bad meal there once and chooses to jump on the beating up bandwagon.

There is a difference between opinion and vindictiveness. If you don't like Havana, then don't go there, but WHY you folks find it your mission in life to beat up restaurants up there is beyond me. If you don't like a TV show, most folks change the channel. Consider doing the same. Change to another location, but do not continue to beat up those that honestly you have no real reason to. You just had a bad meal or two or bad service a time or two or you were a big chunk of the reason your experience was bad (see previous incidents of groups in The Villages) and you just don't want to admit it. But stop with the bashing, it serves NO ONE well except your own ego to see your opinion in print. Really!!

Hey,

I have been here for three years and because Havana is close and I play the 27 holes there so often, I've ate there many many times. I recall having an OK club sandwich but I also remember some very poorly prepared meals. I have given up on meals and stick to apitzeres and beer. I am sorry, but that is the way I see Havana. Every time I hear about a new chef or manager, we give it a try and will continue to do so. Because of the proximity to our home, we want Havana to succeed, but as of yet, we are very disappointed. I have never seen a roach, but I have witnessed very poor quality food too many times for one restaurant.

[geobar]

Inspection will always show up something.
Perhaps you did not hear about any reports at other Restuarants.

[Russ_Boston]

Inspection will always show up something.
Perhaps you did not hear about any reports at other Restuarants.
Boy, have you missed the point!

Health reports/inspections have been posted on numerous threads. Go read them for yourself.

[Russ_Boston]

We have a dozen CC restaurants in The Villages. They are all pretty much the same. They all have access to the same labor pool. They all buy there supplies from the same set of vendors. And actually if I had to rank the setting, facility, decor, Havana would be at or near the top. They all have access to the same customer base, same advertising, and all should be successful. We could all rank them top to bottom and the list would be pretty close. There is only one major difference between them. Management. It is really the only thing different. Management owns 100% of all problems and success with any business. And that is why Havana has failed since it opened. There is no other valid reason. And until management is changed it will continue to fail.

As always, I couldn't have said it any better. It IS true with any business.

[perrjojo]

Is it true that Havana was closed for a few days due to health violations?

[skip0358]

Is it true that Havana was closed for a few days due to health violations?

from what I was told by a worker at Havana they had a plumbing issue, a broken pipe that was more involved then they originally thought.

[Number 6]

As always, I couldn't have said it any better. It IS true with any business.

Right. Because of the proximity to our home we wish them success. However, how many "one more" chances can you give Havana?

[l2ridehd]

As always, I couldn't have said it any better. It IS true with any business.

Thanks Russ. I too wish Havana success. It is such a great place, setting, decor, layout, outside seating, but they need a proven restaurant manager in order to turn it around. Someone with a solid track record of running a great place to eat. Until that happens it will continue to be a repeat of failures with bad food and bad service. That is the only viable fix.

[cucciakm@comcast.net]

Had dinner July 4 at Havanna Country Club. Great food and service. The singing waiters and waitresses were fabulous!

[gomoho]

Havana has put themselves in a position they might have to serve "outstanding" rather than acceptable food to get people back. I love the place, but not sure I'm ready to try again just yet.

[DougB]

Had dinner July 4 at Havanna Country Club. Great food and service. The singing waiters and waitresses were fabulous!

What do they sing?

[Bill32]

What do they sing?

I was told
it was opera...........

[davecz1]

Opera, oh joy. Not my cup of tea. But, good luck to all.

[Bogie Shooter]

Opera, oh joy. Not my cup of tea. But, good luck to all.

Another strike!

[ilovetv]

Opera, oh joy. Not my cup of tea. But, good luck to all.

It goes from bad to worse......and who wants singers instead of good food and service in the first place!

[Bonny]

Another strike!

They all sing lots of different songs. Not necessarily heavy opera.

[kimball]

They all sing lots of different songs. Not necessarily heavy opera.

La Cucaracha ???

[Russ_Boston]

Now I remember the other reason we don't go there:)

[nitehawk]

How about some nice reggae music if you do not like opera

[mac9]

:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:La Cucaracha ???

[ddharrold]

There was a recent email trashing Havana Country Club on this site as well as making the rounds via email. Today the following message was forwarded to me.
===============================================
Don't know whether you know but Havana is under new management now with a new head chef....I had lunch there today after golf and all the girls liked it...service was excellent and the new chef came out and introduced himself and wanted suggestions. Dinner menu was a little pricey...$16 to $20...but lunch was reasonable..............you might want to give it a try.
======================================
My wife and I ate at Havana Wednesday, July 3rd - opening night for the singing waiters. The entire experience was fantastic - good food, good service and amazing entertainer.

[Bill32]

There was a recent email trashing Havana Country Club on this site as well as making the rounds via email. Today the following message was forwarded to me.
===============================================
Don't know whether you know but Havana is under new management now with a new head chef....I had lunch there today after golf and all the girls liked it...service was excellent and the new chef came out and introduced himself and wanted suggestions. Dinner menu was a little pricey...$16 to $20...but lunch was reasonable..............you might want to give it a try.
======================================
My wife and I ate at Havana Wednesday, July 3rd - opening night for the singing waiters. The entire experience was fantastic - good food, good service and amazing entertainer.

Really.................

[Carla B]

I miss Havana and The Villages--for sure!

Those of us who were here were so excited when Havana opened in 2008. Loved your menu and food. As you can see, it's been downhill ever since.

[Virtual Geezer]

Singing Waiters!!! You have got to be kidding me!

I can hear it now you place your order and they give you the a sorrowful attempt at the 24 minute version of Supper's Ready by Genesis.

Well that defiantly puts it on the top of Try Someplace Else List regardless of what music they sing.

VG

[xkeowner]

I spoke at length this evening with one of three bartenders who quit last night because of changes associated with the singing waiters. The manager has not changed. It will be interesting to see what the reports are a month from now as to whether there has been real and lasting improvement.

[Bill32]

What changes???? What made them quit??

[Bonny]

I spoke at length this evening with one of three bartenders who quit last night because of changes associated with the singing waiters. The manager has not changed. It will be interesting to see what the reports are a month from now as to whether there has been real and lasting improvement.
Which bartender quit because of the singing ? :confused:

[Biancarose]

I agree with Bill, the place is wonderful, the food and entertainment was fabulous, Everyone I know whose been there since the singing staff and the new chef has nothing but good reviews.

[skip0358]

Stopped in last night to make reservations for tonight. The place was packed. Couldn't get the spot I would have liked had to settle for 5:30 as everything else was booked. They were signing and the crowd was very happy. Hope for Havana's sake and ours it continues. I'll give you a food update after tonight. Keep in mind I was a critic.

[raynan]

This is our experience on Sat night 7/6. 4 of us decided to give Havana another chance after playing a round of golf. When we arrived the waiters were singing and the crowd seemed to be enjoying it. There were several empty tables inside at @7:30. We asked to sit outside because we wanted to talk and not disturb singers. We were seated outside next to a large group. A waiter came and took drink orders. Menu was limited to a small assortment of apps. and dinners $15 & up. We asked if this was all they had as we were looking for apps & sandwiches. Club soda delivered quickly. Said bartender was making several martinis and frozen drink would be a few minutes. We asked where was the beer? He returned with 2 beers. Then in awhile I received 2 frozen margaritas. So far, so good. We ordered our dinners @8pm. Meanwhile people who arrived after us were being served hamburgers and sandwiches. Large group got their orders, sandwiches. Ok we let it go. 1 of us went to bar to replenish club soda, no waiter. Ordered pitcher of beer because of slow response. 9pm no sign of dinner. Waiter arrives at 9:05 to explain they are out of 1 of our orders and ticket was lost but food is being prepared now. We said forget it, too late. Manager, chef and waiter return and apologize, offer to comp whole meal and drinks, and we agree to take meals to go. They insist it will take 7 minutes. We waited another 25 mins and left without dinners. Very disappointed with the whole evening. Happy with their apologetic attitude. Will wait quite awhile before we try again.
Nancy

[raynan]

...

[Bill32]

There are some people that will love Havana no matter what they serve. Thats fine, I'm glad the place is " packed" ( ??? ). If the owner has finally found the right mix of food singing waiters service etc. for the people whom happen to like what they do there great!
There is so much to choose from here and around TV that no one is forced to go there. It's one club, you have Cane and Mallory on each side and LS is down the road, Bonifay and Evens and now Brownwood.
From following these restaurant posts it's obvious to me that there is a certain number of people that will defend a particular restaurant to the death so best to go and find out first hand.
So lets all be happy that Havana is packed and hopefully making money so the people that like it can enjoy...........

Oh.............and why did the bartenders quit?? Fran has been there a long time???

[Bonny]

There are some people that will love Havana no matter what they serve. Thats fine, I'm glad the place is " packed" ( ??? ). If the owner has finally found the right mix of food singing waiters service etc. for the people whom happen to like what they do there great!
There is so much to choose from here and around TV that no one is forced to go there. It's one club, you have Cane and Mallory on each side and LS is down the road, Bonifay and Evens and now Brownwood.
From following these restaurant posts it's obvious to me that there is a certain number of people that will defend a particular restaurant to the death so best to go and find out first hand.
So lets all be happy that Havana is packed and hopefully making money so the people that like it can enjoy...........

Oh.............and why did the bartenders quit?? Fran has been there a long time???

I asked. No One ever answered my post !

I a
sked. No one came on and answered my post !

[ilovetv]

This is our experience on Sat night 7/6. 4 of us decided to give Havana another chance after playing a round of golf. When we arrived the waiters were singing and the crowd seemed to be enjoying it. There were several empty tables inside at @7:30. We asked to sit outside because we wanted to talk and not disturb singers. We were seated outside next to a large group. A waiter came and took drink orders. Menu was limited to a small assortment of apps. and dinners $15 & up. We asked if this was all they had as we were looking for apps & sandwiches. Club soda delivered quickly. Said bartender was making several martinis and frozen drink would be a few minutes. We asked where was the beer? He returned with 2 beers. Then in awhile I received 2 frozen margaritas. So far, so good. We ordered our dinners @8pm. Meanwhile people who arrived after us were being served hamburgers and sandwiches. Large group got their orders, sandwiches. Ok we let it go. 1 of us went to bar to replenish club soda, no waiter. Ordered pitcher of beer because of slow response. 9pm no sign of dinner. Waiter arrives at 9:05 to explain they are out of 1 of our orders and ticket was lost but food is being prepared now. We said forget it, too late. Manager, chef and waiter return and apologize, offer to comp whole meal and drinks, and we agree to take meals to go. They insist it will take 7 minutes. We waited another 25 mins and left without dinners. Very disappointed with the whole evening. Happy with their apologetic attitude. Will wait quite awhile before we try again.
Nancy

It sounds like they hired singing waiters to distract the customer from waiting--to no avail--and from the disorder and lack of knowledge of what they have and don't have.

[skip0358]

Well we went Saturday night for our reservations. Our 11 year old granddaughter was with us we were seated promptly by the host The music didn't bother her although I thought it to be VERY loud and I have 1 bad ear. We were given menus', I asked for a child's menu and was politely told this is our new menu, I'll see what I could do for you. He goes back to seating patrons when the waitress shows up we'd had a chance to check the menu and ask her about the child's menu as there was nothing on there our 11 year old would eat, she says sorry no children's menu . So we leave, I will be back after our 11 year old leaves.

[Gerald]

Havana was closed because it was taken over by the person who owns two of the other golf course rest. There is definitely a new manager. what changes will be made ..Time will tell.. If you don't believe it stop by and simply ask at Havana that is what I was told while there.

[Bill32]

Good try Gerold.............read previous posts and reports...............

[Bonny]

Havana was closed because it was taken over by the person who owns two of the other golf course rest. There is definitely a new manager. what changes will be made ..Time will tell.. If you don't believe it stop by and simply ask at Havana that is what I was told while there.
Just curious, where did you get this info from ?

[Golfingnut]

Havana was closed because it was taken over by the person who owns two of the other golf course rest. There is definitely a new manager. what changes will be made ..Time will tell.. If you don't believe it stop by and simply ask at Havana that is what I was told while there.

That would be wonderful news, but, sorry its not true.