Is there a particular store or restaurant that you would like to see here?

[Talk Host]

Have you ever heard of Wegman's? It is a monster suprmarket from a company out of Rochester NY. They are all around the east and south east. Would love to have one here.

How about you......?

[gingersmom]

I would love to see a Macys or another department store. JC Penny's would be nice.

[LovinItAtTheVillages]

Well if we are making a wish list..Id like a Villages Mall..which would include all the big stores..Macy's,Dillards,and JC Penny
Marshalls is fun, and a Best Buy..A.C. Moore Crafts or Joanne Fabrics..
restaurants Id like is a DUNKIN DONUTS on the Spanish Springs side
and a good COAL OVEN Pizza place..would be good
:)

[Talk Host]

Well if we are making a wish list..Id like a Villages Mall..which would include all the big stores..Macy's,Dillards,and JC Penny
Marshalls is fun, and a Best Buy..A.C. Moore Crafts or Joanne Fabrics..
restaurants Id like is a DUNKIN DONUTS on the Spanish Springs side
and a good COAL OVEN Pizza place..would be good
:)


You don't hold back do you? ;D

[LovinItAtTheVillages]

:bigthumbsup: Nope...dont get anywhere if you hold back! I figure if we are wishing for places..may as well name em all :joke:
It gets old having to go wayyyyyyy over other side to get a good cup'o coffee...back on Cape Cod we have Dunkin Donuts all over town!

[PJ]

Yes I'd like to see a Trader Joe's! Please....
Also a Calico Corners Outlet would be great. Or any other fabric store such as Joanns. We have hardly anyplace to find fabric or supplies here.
Also a Hobby Lobby or Michaels or other craft store would be welcome. :welcome:

[judylou]

I would like to see an Olive Garden, Red Lobster, Lone Star, Texas Roadhouse, Shells, Sweet Tomato, Kohls, JC Pennys, Fashion Bug, Lane Bryant, a quilting shop and a Dairy Queen or Dunkin Doughnuts on the Spanish Spring side.

[LovinItAtTheVillages]

:click:if you want a Dunkin Donuts on Spanish Springs side...oh just kidding...clicking wont do much..we all need to write to DD headquarters and tell them they need to push for one here!!

[Talk Host]

I think DQ is a franchise opportunity. Find somebody who is willing to put up the money and they will open one. There was one near the hospital until recently and it closed.
Am I correct on that?

[johnfarr]

I miss Costco....

[elcid]

We like Costco as well. Would also like to see a Manhattan Bagel - they have the best bagels, as well as sandwiches and pastries.

[gingersmom]

I heard a rumor a while ago that Olive Garden and Red Lobster were going in next to Brusters by Mulberry Rec Center. Anyone know if there is any truth to this?

[Talk Host]

I heard a rumor a while ago that Olive Garden and Red Lobster were going in next to Brusters by Mulberry Rec Center. Anyone know if there is any truth to this?


It so happens that I have an acquaintanceship with a land owner in that strip and he told me three weeks ago that NONE of the land has been committed. He said that when he bought his land three years ago, he was told by the real estate company that a whole list of fine businesses were going in there, but it turned out to be not the case.

[SusieQ]

I would love to have a Costco, Trader Joe's and a Dillards!

[amityk]

MIchael's or AC Moore

[lwb]

You do know that with all those stores everybody wants comes traffic congestion and crime, just like southwest Florida. Stop the
developers before it's to late.

[Patty]

I'd like to see a good morning coffee, bagel shop up near Bruster's on Mulberry Grove Plaza. Also a few more restaurants at that end (northern) would be great.

[Kitria]

Hmm.. ::) most of the suggestions so far are terrific. :agree:

I did contact, by email, "The Christmas Tree Shop" and told them of the wonderful opportunity down here. New Englanders know of this store. A wonderful inexpensive store to buy gifts and housewares, and sooooo much more. They emailed me back saying that if they expand to Florida they would look into this area. :)

Hobby Lobby or any large craft store is really missing the boat by not being here. I wrote to Hobby Lobby too. I haven't heard a reply.

A DD's is much needed on the Springs side! Starbucks? too expensive..yummy flavors..but do we really need 5 of them..and so close together...how can they compete with each other? :dontknow:

With Wal-Mart not providing material by the yard soon (so I heard), we do need a nice, reasonably priced material store.

Circuit City needs competition with a Best Buy. Best Buy has more computer software, games, and music cd's.

Well, I have repeated enough of others' thoughts for now.

[rlight]

Yea, a Best Buy or CompUSA. I heard that CompUSA is cutting half their stores tho.

[sparky]

:bigthumbsup: Panera's is expanding!!!! Good move Panera.

[purple_worm]

We, also, would like to see a Wegmans' here, a Costco's also.

Mark

[Lori]

We desparately need a coffee shop up by Mulberry. Build it and they will come. We need a place to gather or go to after meetings and it is five miles to town. Would love Dunken donut L Heffner

[GHHH]

Two businesses we need here, I feel, would be Costco and Trader Joe's. In The Villages survey Trader Joe's was mentioned as a restaurant, but perhaps they meant Trader Vic's. Trader Joe's is great for all sorts of interesting foods and very inexpensive but decent wine. It's the home of "Two Buck Chuck"!

[islandgal]

I'd like to see Home Goods, Costco and an upscale restaurant with no only good food but with ambiance [low lighting and white tablecloths![/b]

[marygalexa]

[color=purple]I wish there were a Blockbusters or another DVD/VCR Rental store on the south side of town. I like to rent an occasional DVD but a cart ride to the Blockbusters way up on the northside is quite a trip from Mallory Square! I would also like to see a Joannes Fabric Shop and more decorating accessory shops like Pottery Barn, and Old Tyme Pottery. Of course Costco would be great too!

[Talk Host]

You do know that with all those stores everybody wants comes traffic congestion and crime, just like southwest Florida. Stop the
developers before it's to late.


You are joking....right? :o

[dandt]

Definitely Costco and Trader Joe's.

[tony]

Victoria's Secret. :redface:

[Nancy Gaulin]

I'd like to see an "Olive Garden" and a "99 Restaurant".

[samhass]

Costco! Altamonte Springs is a haul just to go to Costco.

[sammie223]

Trader Joe's is cool; Costco or BJ's...I am not a fan of Sam's Club....would like Olive Garden/Red Lobster also. Our Wegman's is wonderful in Central NY; I don't know if they go out-of-state. :bigthumbsup:

[dsgolfin]

I'd like to see a "Sports Authority", a "Donut Shop" (even though no one should eat them :)), and a SteinMart.

[JohnZ]

We've had a lot of suggestions about who and what but few suggestions about where. How about a few more wheres?

[hddeuce]

Something like a Macy's/Burdines !!!

[Carla]

Wegemens goes down through Virginia. I LOVE that store. We need that and Costco here.

[aford]

Sam's is coming next to Home Depot. Kohl's is also coming to Buffalo Ridge. Told them not to make it too tiny. I definitely would love to see a Macy's (must be large)

Although the DQ closed on 441/27 there is another one on 466.

::) I think that is it for now.

[GERALDINE]

Yes I'd like to see a Trader Joe's! Please....
Also a Calico Corners Outlet would be great. Or any other fabric store such as Joanns. We have hardly anyplace to find fabric or supplies here.
Also a Hobby Lobby or Michaels or other craft store would be welcome. :welcome:


:agree:I TOTALLY agree...Not sure what a Trader Joes's is, but....I TOTALLY agree that we need a fabric/craft store in The Villages: A JoAnns, a Michaels, Hobby Lobby, Calico Corners...ANYTHING would be better than what we have now which is ZILCH !! Oh yes, there is a craft store, per se, in Southern Trace, but they are so NOT nice there and not helpful and don't really have much of anything in stock. Do the "powers that be" realize how many craft, sewing, quilting, painting, etc, etc, clubs there are here??? It would be a goldmine to open a fabric and/or craft store here. Maybe if we all sent emails or letters to the stores we want, they'll come and investigate. We didn't really need another McDs on 466A...pass the blubber please >:(...but they did their marketing and know a good thing when they see it. I went to Tavares yesterday to JoAnns and last week was at Hobby Lobby in Ocala. Every day I think of something else I want or need (mostly want ;D) but there's nowhere to go unless one wants to drive 20+ miles in some direction...which I don't like to do. Hope somebody out there is listening to us....

[GERALDINE]

I heard a rumor a while ago that Olive Garden and Red Lobster were going in next to Brusters by Mulberry Rec Center. Anyone know if there is any truth to this?


OHHHHH I sooooo hope you're right!!

[purple_worm]

A Dunkin Donuts would be god, better than Starbucks, but a Carribeau Coffee would be just outstanding. It also is a franchise.

[marianne237]

a good hobby store would be great, but how about a White Castle or Krystals?

[Patty]

How about a Mexican restaurant up on 42? Not a fancy chain or anything, just a good Mexican Restaurant and also a restaurant for good coffee up on the "Northern" end of the Villages.

[gingersmom]

I'm from Houston and I really miss good Mexican food. The palces here are terrible, wrong ingredients, bad meat, little portions of meat, etc. I would probably sell my soul for a good Mexican resturant like Pappasitos or Ninfas.

[JohnZ]

El Ranchero, Monterrey, Rio Bravo or La Paz would be nice. ON HWY 42!!!!! Not that I'm irritated or anything. Sheesh.

[Donice]

For all you DD fans in Spanish Springs. Try Panera. We have found it to be as good as DD. Especially their travel cup. No waiting in line for just a cup of coffee. Check it out!

[islandgal]

I would like to see a very upscale restaurant here (not so much price - but ambience, service and good food). White tagbleclothes, candles,etc. (no bright lights like most of the restaurants have here) allowing for a leisurely European slow dinner (like NY and San Fran) versus the quick and out-of-here American dinner.
What do you think?
EJW

[JohnZ]

If you want up-scale atmosphere, food and service as you describe it, prepare to pay upscale prices. There is no free lunch. The primary reason you don't see more of this kind of restaurant in these parts.....is that the demographic will not support their business if meal costs are beyond a certain point. There are those, like you, who would patronize an upscale place from time-to-time. However, the simple fact of the matter is that a larger percentage of the population here will not patronize high-end purveyors because of higher prices. It's business and smart entrepreneurs will work the numbers vis-a-vis the prospective clientele's income and spending habits. But that said, things may change as the first big wave of baby-boomers begin to retire in '08. Their spending patterns, tastes and lifestyle preferences are different than the current retiree population. It'll be interesting to see what happens. Any predictions?

[Kitria]

Being a baby boomer myself..and living on a budget to retire early.. I will not predict on the influx of boomers to follow. You have to remember that all baby boomers are not rich..or have..or had high paying jobs.

I know that the Villages is wooing the more affluent, while resales will catch the eye of the less bountiful.

There is room for us all, not matter our finances which is why it is such a great place to live. My amenities pay for the same things as those with larger bank accounts. I am just as rich in happiness, health, family, and love.

[JohnZ]

Kitria:

Thanks and well said. I fully understand the various economic strata that comprise the Boomer generation. We come from all walks of life, lifestyles and jobs and we all have different expectations concerning retirement. I was responding to EJW's wish to have an upscale restraurant locate here. It distill down to a simple business decision. Consider a couple of simple business models. First, low price, low overhead, high volume....this works here...its proven. Second, high price, high overhead, low volume....this is risky here. Eg. 200 transactions per night x $20 per transaction versus 50 transactions per night x $80 per transaction. High-end restaurants establish where there are lots high-end spenders. It's a business decision.

[Lil Dancer]

i miss Borders Books - they seemed to have better selection than the Barnes and Noble at Sumter Landing. :read:

[abracadabra]

Costco, Trader Joes and Olive Garden! There is a new coffee shop at Baylee Plaza which has great coffee and fabulous breakfast sandwiches etc.

[djagent1]

I would love to see The Original Pancake House. Now don't confuse this with IHOP. Definitely not close to being the same. Original Pancake House is famous for their Apple Pancake. It takes three people to eat one Apple Pancake. And it is so good. We have this restaurant on the East Coast of Fla. Md., N. C. just to name a few states. Once you trythis restaurant you are hooked.

[villagera1]

Being a baby boomer myself..and living on a budget to retire early.. I will not predict on the influx of boomers to follow. You have to remember that all baby boomers are not rich..or have..or had high paying jobs.

I know that the Villages is wooing the more affluent, while resales will catch the eye of the less bountiful.

There is room for us all, not matter our finances which is why it is such a great place to live. My amenities pay for the same things as those with larger bank accounts. I am just as rich in happiness, health, family, and love.

AMEN! THANKS!

[villagera1]

We do need a fabric/craft store. WalMart has nothing to speak of. I hate to go shopping outside of The Villages.

[Peekapoo]

I'd like to see Sweet Tomatoes!

[funnygirl]

Love Trader Joes and I miss Costco. BJ's would be nice. We need a Macy's too.

[needleptdoc]

How would anybody think a good needlepoint store would do in the villages? I owned a store in Boca Raton for 14 years. I really thought I would be able to open here however, after talking to a lot of people , it seems no one needlepoints????? I would appreciate any in put anyone can give me. It would appear like a good idea but I heard that 2 craft stores closed in the villages ? We have only been here 6 weeks. So we are still in the thinking stage before we jump into something. Anxious to hear your comments.

[jeansharon]

I ALSO HAD HEARD THAT THAT THE STRIP ALONGSIDE OF BRUSTER'S WOULD HOUSE: OLIVE GARDEN AND RED LOBSTER BUT WAS TOLD THAT MARION IS BLOCKING ALL NEW BUSINESSES IN THAT AREA. THOSE RESTAURANTS WOULD DEFINITELY BE A GREAT ADDITION TO THE MULBERRY LANE BUSINESSES AND ADDING DUNKIN DONUTS WOULD REALLY TOP IT OFF. DON'T KNOW HOW OTHERS FEEL ABOUT IT BUT I THINK A GOOD "BREAKFAST" RESTAURANT WOULD ALSO BE A WELCOME SIGHT, GOING OUT FOR BREAKFAST AFTER AN EARLY TEE TIME WOULD BE GREAT.

[Talk Host]

We need a hardware store in Spanish Springs with less grouchy check out clerks.

[Patty]

[quote=jeansharon ]
I ALSO HAD HEARD THAT THAT THE STRIP ALONGSIDE OF BRUSTER'S WOULD HOUSE: OLIVE GARDEN AND RED LOBSTER BUT WAS TOLD THAT MARION IS BLOCKING ALL NEW BUSINESSES IN THAT AREA.

I agree a great breakfast/lunch/light dinner fare (i.e. maybe a diner) would do great up at the northern end of the villages. As a business owner along that strip, I am aware that Marion County has NOT been blocking any development, however rising construction costs and impact fees do play a significant role in deciding where to place a business.

In the area just past the Publix monument sign, there is planned another pharmacy, bank and possibly a movie theater or bowling alley. This is not on Villages proper, but adjacent to the east end of the Publix area.

[mdain]

Wegmans definitely. I would also like to see UNO - good food and very reasonable. I would also love to see a Macys. I miss having a mall nearby but it saves me a lot of money!

[boobear51751]

Kudos on the Wegman's store. The only reason I hate leaving Central New York is because of Wegmans. I stock up on as many products as I can before I leave and have things either brought down or sent down when I run out. Come on Don, bring a store down to 'The Villages' or Lady Lake area. It would be another success for sure. There is not another grocery store like it in the nation and I guess that's why it's ranked number one.

[cromlich]

Olive Garden! Olive Garden! Olive Garden! anywhere in The Villages. Please

[mike1946]

Please Please Please - Will someone open a restaurant serving good quality fresh produce that ISN'T FRIED - every restaurant you go into has the same darn thing e.g. burgers, wings, fried everything ..trying to get some decent and imaginately cooked vegtables ...you might as well fly to Mars !!! Oh and p.s. can it please stay open until at least 11:30 and have some very soft background music, table cloths, candlelight and staff that will offer you a coffee and a liquer after your meal ...doesn't anyone in this country finish a good dinner with a coffee and a brandy or port ??? It always gets offered in the UK in the USA it almost never does !! Why ???

[Villages Kahuna]

Costco...Trader Joe's...Whole Foods

[lucky]

TRADER JOE'S would be awesome to have here and golf cart accessible!!!!!!!!!

[jim16g]

Victoria's Secret. :redface:


Great. We would have seventy year olds modeling designer Depends.

[Talk Host]

Great. We would have seventy year olds modeling designer Depends.

ROTFLMAO

[mel]

I agree with the person who wrote in regarding a White Castle or Krystals. You either love 'em or hate 'em. Also, the closest Sam Ashe is down in Orlando. They would blow the one music store in Mulberry out of the water would they put a small facility up here.

Jerry Jackson
(Calumet Grove)

[Talk Host]

Based on the various comments thru these pages, TV doesn't seem to be very user friendly. Am I imagining things?


Grouchy check out clerks at the Spanish Springs Hardware store do not make the Villages an unfriendly place. The Villages is a wonderful place. The store is privately owned. It is like anywhere else in the world. There are places where the managment seems not to notice that the customers are being chased away. There are grouchy clerks in Boise, Idaho, San Diego, Califoriania, and Syracuse, New York. ;D

[bestmickey]

I'm not ... yet ... a Villages resident, but I'd like to see some of the following within golf cart range: Costco, BJ's, Marshall's, TJ Maxx, JC Penney, Michael's, Red Lobster, Pizza Hut.

I understand there's a new place in Spanish Springs that will feature New Orleans style, Dixieland jazz. However, I'd love to see a nice bar/nightclub (and radio station) with the jazz focus being such stylists as Billie Holiday, Duke Ellington, etc. 8)

[KenMac]

OK, here's my three cents, (all duplicates!):

a GOOD Mexican restaurant;
Costco
Trader Joes ("2-buck chuck" and so many other great things!)

But I think we'll be happy with what is already here... ahhh flexibility!

[jjdees]

Costco is our choice. A major mall would be nice.

[thompsonjn]

Getting a Trader Joe's would be WONDERFUL!!! We move to our home in TV next fall and we have contacted both Trader Joe's (TJ) and TV to ask that they please talk to each other to work out a store in TV. TV says that TJs has to call them first. TJs says TV has to call them first. I hope TV will take the initiative and contact TJs. TJs could not offer a store in the Southeast until they opened their distribution center in Atlanta, which they have done this past year. However, Trader Joe's is in such demand, I suspect they have all the major metropolitan areas beating down their doors, begging them to locate a store nearby. I am still hopeful that TV will recognize how many Villagers miss TJs, and take the first step and contact TJs. Just look at the consistent thread of notes about Trader Joe's in the messages below.

Who is the best person at TV to get this word to? Trader Joe's is something so many people would benefit from. For the person who asked, Trader Joe's calls itself a 'specialty grocery' store. Everything is unique, delicious and many items are at wonderful prices. We love their "Two Buck Chuck" wine - a CA wine made by Charles Shaw. By the time it makes it to the east coast, shipping has raised the price to $3.29, but an incredible value for a quite good wine. Love their desserts, sesame honey coated cashews, $2 boxes of cereal, huge bouquets of flowers (more than twice what we can get at the grocery store for $4) for $5.99, gourmet cheeses, cinnamon coated almonds, and so many other things that just aren't available at a regular grocery store. Lettuce, beer, wine, specialty cheeses, half and half, veggie and birds nest tempura (frozen), orange chicken (frozen), Taquitos & soft tacos (frozen), broccoli & cheese quiche (frozen0, boneless pork chops (fresh), bananas and clementies are regular items I will find it very hard to live without or to have to pay higher grocery store prices.

I see so many notes below about people's love of Trader Joe's. How can we organize ourselves and make our desires know to the appropriate people at TV? Any suggestions?

[Avista]

I heard Sweet Tomatoes will be building on Buffalo Ridge. That will be great. Whatever comes, please make it golf cart accessable! We don't use our car unless absolutely necessary.

[handieman]

Have you ever heard of Wegman's? It is a monster supermarket from a company out of Rochester NY. They are all around the east and south east. Would love to have one here.

How about you......?
:agree:
We have a wegmans here in my home town and it is by far the most popular grocery/deli/bakery/restaurant going.
But folks lets take a look at the new "sweetbay" grocery/deli due to open just walking distance from Lake Sumter Landing Market Square. It look to me to be the answer to our prayers over here on the south side of the Villages ( S of 466) Also don't overlook the new stores in Colony Plaza on 466a.

[Indy-Guy]

I would like to see a Ted's Montana Grill.

The only bad thing for villager's is their specialty is bison. Some people here would say they wouldn't like it for that but take a look at their menu. I feed the buffalo myself. I like them also. They are friendly.

But the bison is great to eat. And good for you!

We have 2 Ted's Montana restaurants in Indy.

http://www.tedsmontanagrill.com/

Anyone else eaten there?

[jjdees]

We bought some ground bison at the grocery store and did not like it. The taste was just not good. I had eaten at Ted's in Atlanta prior to the grocery store bison but didn't have the bison burger. The next time I was at Ted's, I decided to try the bison burger and it was great. I wouldn't hesitate to have another. And the fat content is lower than beef.

[gobarb26]

I agree with Sweet Tomatoes! It is just the right price point for the people of the Villages. I very often try to get there when I am in Orlando. I would also like to see a Trader Joe's. I have not personally been to one, but my sister and mother have told me how wonderful they are. Sounds good to me!
:clap2:

[Indy-Guy]

Add Trader Joe's to my list.

Above is the e-mail address for Ted's E-mail them and let them know we are here and waiting.

Here is the e-mail address for Trader Joes let them know what they are missing. Flood them with e-mails!!!!!!!! Mine is already there.

http://www.traderjoes.com/product_information_form.aspx

[PJ]

Sorry to report bad news from Trader Joe's. They sent me a very nice reply to my email requesting that they build a TJ's in the Villages. They explained why they can't do that anytime in the near future. I'm so disappointed!
Here's their reply:

Hello,

We appreciate your suggestions and enthusiasm regarding opening a store in Florida. We regret to inform you that at this time we have no confirmed plans for a store location in this area.

We are always looking for new locations and are open to suggestions and we appreciate the information you have provided. It truly shows us what a great fan you are of our stores when you scout locations for us! We will keep your recommendations in our files for future consideration.

We do have plans on coming to the state. However, due to lack of warehousing and vendors to supply product, we do not have the capabilities to yet supply the area. At this time this state in not in the Trader Joe's 2-year plan.

Thank you for your inquiry and thank you for shopping at Trader Joe's .

Kellye
Trader Joe's
Customer Relations

[Frangyomory]

Red Lobster and Olive Garden!! Right now you have to drive to Leesburg for these places or to Ocala and I prefer to remain close to home when going out to dinner. :bigthumbsup: :bigthumbsup:

[rnm]

Joannes would be terrific as would Costco - I am also not a big fan of Sam's

[Avista]

Definitely Sweet Tomatoes!

[chuckinca]

bump

[franco]

I agree that a Wegman's would be the BEST grocery store for TV - there is no other grocery store like it in the WORLD. In fact, grocers from all over the world come to Rochester, NY (home of Wegman's) just to visit and learn the concept of this amazing store.
It would be great to finally have good bread in TV - haven't found a loaf yet that I liked - tried them all - even the "gormet" varities in all the local groceries and restaurants like Paneras and Toojay's. Wegman's deli, prepared foods and olive bar feature dozens of varities - all so fresh and delicious. EVERYTHING Wegman's does if first class!

[franco]

We definitely need some quality stores and malls on 466A that are golf cart accessible. My #1 choice would be Home Goods - so many of us drive to Orlando or Altamonte Springs just to shop for "home goods" to decorate our new Florida homes - heaven forbid if you need to exchange something for color or size - that's another 1 1/2hr. drive each way (ask my husband - he's done it countless times!) Everyone I speak to wishes there was a Home Goods store locally - even contacted them via their Web site - no plans as of this moment.
Who has power for this request?

[villages07]

Franco....I believe an AC Moore store is due to go into the shopping strip across from Home Depot on 441 (it's like a Michaels but not as good as Home Goods). Better than nuthin'; somehow, I doubt 466A will ever be as robust for shopping as 466 and 441; probably just have the immediate necessity stores and a few eateries.

[golfnut]

I would like an Olive Garden, for a chain I think they do a great job.

[Taltarzac]

Somewhere you could get dutch crunch bread. Have found any of this outside of the San Francisco Bay area.

[schotzyb]

Steak and Ale; Great Prime Rib!

[chuckinca]

Aurelio's pizza - Chicago's Finest!


http://www.aureliospizza.com/aurelios/corporate.nsf/fCNTDspReadL?OpenForm&Cat1=LA2

[Hancle704]

There were rumors that Red Lobster and or Olive Garden were going in when Porter's left Spruce Creek across from Summerfield WalMart where Office Depot now stands. There were also rumors about a Costco coming in north of WalMart on rte 441 across from Lutheran Church. That was just another rumor.

A good addition to TV would be a First Watch. They serve Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch only. Last I heard they were looking at TV and possible sites. Would like to see a Friendly's open in TV. Their ice cream is pretty good.

[Skip]

We, also, would like to see a Wegmans' here.
Mark

You won't see Wegman's come to Florida. Over the years, the Wegmans (Rochester, NY) and the Jenkins (Lakeland, FL) families have grown to be good friends and they would not compete with each other. Besides, distribution to less than 20 stores is a big problem. Same goes for Trader Joes.

Skip

[Prizmz]

A great addition would be Jason's Deli. It is headquartered in Texas, and there is one in Altamont Springs in the shopping center between Baer's Furniture and Petco.

[tapple525]

We visited the Villages last week. Amazing lifestyle. Aside from rumours of new stores and a viable wish list, what new stores or malls are planned for the Villages. Does anyone know what is really on the books now and in the near future ??? ???

[Caper]

If you check the AC Moore website and go to Store Locator they have a new store listed as opening within the next year just south of 466. I believe it's off 441 in the area of all the new construction.

[Bubbalarry]

Have you ever heard of Wegman's? It is a monster suprmarket from a company out of Rochester NY. They are all around the east and south east. Would love to have one here.

How about you......?


No to Wegmans...............................Yes to Shop-Rite

Reason. Their prices are higher than any SM in the Northeast like Southern Jersey.

[gregs238]

A costco would be nice
also what do you all think about a Bass Pro Shop?? :bigthumbsup:

[captain1202]

What would be nice is a real restaurant with a fine dining flair. Most of the chains just don't cut it for me.
How about real French or Italian or just plain American, but really nice. Forget the fat, grease, grits and gravy.

[Bernie]

A piano or jazz bar that stays open past 9:00 that people can sit around chat and enjoy music in comfort.

[Sidney Lanier]

Wegman's is indeed terrific! Would really enjoy having a Charlie Brown's Steakhouse here: fantastic salad bar and excellent, reasonably priced meals. I don't think they exist outside of the Northeast, though....

[Peggy D]

Kitrina,

LOVE the Christmas Tree Shop! They opened one in North Wilmington. When I go up to my sons', I always go there. Always go to Trader Joe's when up there also--the only one in DE.


Surprised there is no Dunkin' Donuts in TV (or is there) You can't go anywhere here without running into one.

Peggy

[villages07]

Peggy,

There is a Dunkin Donuts on 466 in Southern Trace shopping area; I think an earlier poster had lamented that there wasn't one closer to their house.

[Hyacinth Bucket]

Hi All,

I am very disappointed with Trader Joe's response. I just emailed them about the possibility of accepting an order from us and what the shipping charges would be. When they respond I will post the answer.

I have shopped at both Wegman's and ShopRite. Wegman's is less expensive than ShopRite,.

Would also like a Sweet Tomatoes here and Charlie Brown.

Sweet Bay is part of the Hannaford Chain, or perhaps it is the other way around, you can not compare them to Wegman's. Wegman's is offers more items and specialty areas and prices are better.

I have shopped in both Hannaford and Wegman's.

Now if we all could get our wishes granted. That would be great.

Hyacinth Bucket

[Russ_Boston]

HB - A previous post had this:

Sweet Tomatoes is being built--I think on 466. I LOVE Sweet Tomatoes.
http://www.sweettomatoes.com/

Not sure if this is true because the website still doesn't have a TV location planned.

[Hyacinth Bucket]

Thanks Russ. I missed that post.

Do you think when you come down to TV you could stop at Trader Joe's to pick up an order for me? :)

Hyacinth Bucket

[Russ_Boston]

I would but i don't think that there are any near me.

[Hyacinth Bucket]

Hi Russ,

The one I usually go to is off of I 84 in Danbury. You could take I 84 on your way down here.
:)

HB

[Bubbalarry]

Hi All,

I am very disappointed with Trader Joe's response. I just emailed them about the possibility of accepting an order from us and what the shipping charges would be. When they respond I will post the answer.

I have shopped at both Wegman's and ShopRite. Wegman's is less expensive than ShopRite,.

Would also like a Sweet Tomatoes here and Charlie Brown.

Sweet Bay is part of the Hannaford Chain, or perhaps it is the other way around, you can not compare them to Wegman's. Wegman's is offers more items and specialty areas and prices are better.

I have shopped in both Hannaford and Wegman's.

Now if we all could get our wishes granted. That would be great.

Hyacinth Bucket


Please tell me what city you live in that you claim wegmans is cheaper than Shop-rite. I am from Mt. Laurel, NJ and we had to laugh at this post as we have shopped many times at both stores and find it opposite your claims.

[Hyacinth Bucket]

Hi,

In New Paltz, NY ShopRite is higher. They have done studies on prices at this store compared to other ShopRites and this store continually comes in higher.

We have shopped in Wegman's from Binghamton to Geneseo, NY and they all have been consistently lower.

In New Paltz another chain has come in, I do not know if another price comparison has been done.

Where we live many people do not have cars, college students and senior citizens, and the workers at the local orchards are taken to ShopRite. I think that is why the prices are higher.

Hyacinth Bucket

[Russ_Boston]

HB - I don't think the pilot would be willing to set the plane down in the middle of CT :joke:

But i'll ask!

[Hyacinth Bucket]

Hi Russ,

Not to sure the pilot would be willing - so here is the list of Trader Joe's in the Boston area.

Do you live near any of them? Have you ever been to one? Great place to shop, have high quality food items usually at a price lower than a gourmet or specialty shop.

I have found items there that I haven't seen in any other store.

If you have never been there, go when you can.

Best,

Hyacinth Bucket

Acton*
145 Great Road
Acton, MA 01720
Trading Hours: 9 am – 9 pm
Phone: 978-266-8908
Arlington*
1427 Massachusetts Ave.
Arlington, MA 02476
Trading Hours: 9 am – 9 pm
Phone: 781-646-9138
Boston*
899 Boylston Street
Boston, MA 02115
Trading Hours: 9 am - 10 pm
Phone: 617-262-6505
Brookline
1317 Beacon Street
Brookline, MA 02446
Trading Hours: 9 am - 10 pm
Beer & Wine Sales: 9 am- 10 pm Mon-Sat 12 pm - 10 pm Sun
Phone: 617-278-9997
Burlington*
51 Middlesex Turnpike
Burlington, MA 01803
Trading Hours: 9 am – 9 pm
Phone: 781-273-2310

Cambridge
748 Memorial Drive
Cambridge, MA 02139
Trading Hours: 9 am - 10 pm
Beer & Wine Sales: 9 am - 10 pm Mon-Sat 12 pm - 10 pm Sun
Phone: 617-491-8582
Framingham
659 Worcester Road
Framingham, MA 01701
Trading Hours: 9 am – 9 pm
Beer & Wine Sales: 9 am- 9 pm Mon-Sat 12 pm - 9 pm Sun
Phone: 508-935-2931
Hadley*
375 Russell Street
Hadley, MA 01035
Trading Hours: 9 am – 9 pm
Phone: 413-587-3260
Hanover*
1775 Washington Street
Hanover, MA 02339
Trading Hours: 9 am – 9 pm
Phone: 781-826-5389
Hyannis*
Christmas Tree Promenade
655 Route 132, Unit 4-A
Hyannis, MA 02601
Trading Hours: 9 am - 9 pm
Phone: 508-790-3008
Needham Hts*
958 Highland Avenue
Needham Hts, MA 02494
Trading Hours: 9 am – 9 pm
Phone: 781-449-6993
Peabody*
300 Andover Street, Suite 15
Peabody, MA 01960
Trading Hours: 9 am – 9 pm
Phone: 978-977-5316
Shrewsbury*
77 Boston Turnpike
Shrewsbury, MA 01545
Trading Hours: 9 am – 9 pm
Phone: 508-755-9560
Swampscott*
419 Paradise Rd.
Swampscott, MA 01907
Trading Hours: 9 am – 9 pm
Phone: 781-598-8700

Tyngsboro*
440 Middlesex Road
Tyngsboro, MA 01879
Trading Hours: 9 am – 9 pm
Phone: 978-649-2726
West Newton*
1121 Washington St.
West Newton, MA 02465
Trading Hours: 9 am – 9 pm
Phone: 617-244-1620

[PJ]

I feel your pain HB, I miss Trader Joe's in Arlington, VA soooo much. I emailed them maybe a year ago, and asked them to please consider coming here. They replied that they can't open a store here, because they don't have a distribution center in FL. SweetBay doesn't even come close to being as good as TJ's!!

[Russ_Boston]

HB - You must own stock in this company. :joke:

I'll try to check one out but none are anywhere near Norton, MA which is closer to Providence, RI than Boston.

[Hyacinth Bucket]

Hi Russ,

I wish I owned stock in the company.

HB

[Bubbalarry]

Hi,

In New Paltz, NY ShopRite is higher. They have done studies on prices at this store compared to other ShopRites and this store continually comes in higher.

We have shopped in Wegman's from Binghamton to Geneseo, NY and they all have been consistently lower.

In New Paltz another chain has come in, I do not know if another price comparison has been done.

Where we live many people do not have cars, college students and senior citizens, and the workers at the local orchards are taken to ShopRite. I think that is why the prices are higher.

Hyacinth Bucket


Ok, I got it and can see why Wegmans would be cheaper in NY, since his home is on the lake by Canandaigua,NY. (Part of Finger Lakes)

When his stores open out of state his prices get higher like Publix down here.

[ddnelson]

We would like to see an Indian restaurant in or near the Villages...for the moment one has to drive to Ocala (one small restaurant...but very good) or Orlando (no experience there)...are we alone?

[Hyacinth Bucket]

dd, did not know there was a good restaurant in Ocala. Please post name and address of restaurant.

Thanks, no you are not alone in wanting a good Indian Restaurant.

HB

[Prizmz]

Have you had a terrific corn beef on rye lately?

A Jason's Deli would be a wonderful addition!

[chelsea24]

I posted before, but I just thought of two more. Boston Market and an Uno's or Dua's Pizzia from Chicago. Mmmmmm the best! :bigthumbsup:

[jersey]

Dave & Busters, Trader Joe's,Charlie Brown's,White Castle...............

[nONIE]

Chels,

Great idea, nothing beats Uno's pizza, deep dish. Im really surprised there isnt one here already. I bet it wont be long.
Is there one in Ocala?

[chelsea24]

I think I did see one either in Ocala or Orlando. Hope they get an Uno's here fast! ;D

[Richard Ford]

WEGMAN'S by far is the greatest store in the Country. My wife loves The Villages, but misses Wegman's. The store in Rochester [suburb of Pittsford] is a show place that is a 'must' see. A couple years ago Cher was appearing in Rochester and one of the sites she when to was the Pittsford Wegman's. Here responce was "built me one in Beverly Hills".

:) :) :)

[F16 1UB]

Victoria's Secret. :redface:



"Hooters" I heard they have great uh hmmm I can't remember. Maybe Handie could enlighten us.

[njgranny]

While we were in Florida for Jan. and Feb., my daughter sent us a Trader Joe's care package. Boy was the stuff good!

[marianne237]

Uno's Pizza! Yes, Yes, Yes!!!

[chuckinca]

"Hooters" I heard they have great uh hmmm I can't remember. Maybe Handie could enlighten us.



The owner of the gas station that my step father used in the Chicago south Burbs sold his station in the mid eighties and retired to Clearwater. After a few years of playing golf he and some golf buddies decided to open a burger joint in Clearwater, hired some young hotties to serve the food and called it Hooters.

[aford]

Kohl's is already being built on 441 new shopping center and Sam's is being built next to Home Depot.

But I would also like a Dillards and a Macys..........................

[Number 6]

Well, we are going to miss Wegman's the most. When we lived in Rochester we shopped at the Wegman's on the corner of 250 and 441. Our Wegman's in Elmira is laid out the same. In Rochester people define where they live by what Wegman's they shop at. Oh, and the wife wants Red Lobster and Olive Garden.

[pajames]

Costco and Ledo's Pizza (started in College Park, MD in 1955).

[golfnut]

Anything with Pizza in the name is good by me.

[teekart]

I would like to see: Sam's club (heard one is coming), Trader Joe's, Holly Lobby and or Michaels and most especially Soup Plantation and Sweet Tomatoes!
;D

sb

[MMC24]

Well, we are going to miss Wegman's the most. When we lived in Rochester we shopped at the Wegman's on the corner of 250 and 441. Our Wegman's in Elmira is laid out the same. In Rochester people define where they live by what Wegman's they shop at. Oh, and the wife wants Red Lobster and Olive Garden.


I agree about Wegman's. Best food store I have ever shopped in. TV's would flock to this store if they opened one here.

[villages07]

PaJames,

Heading up to MD for a visit and high on the list is some Ledo's Pizza.

Actually, there is a Ledo's franchise in Altamonte Springs, not too far from the Costco there. But, it is an ugly drive from TV to there....most directly on 441 through lots of towns and traffic lights. We were driving back from Costco and the Big "L" in the Ledos logo caught my eye...came back to the computer and sure enough it was a Ledo's restaurant.

[phillisk]

What happened to the Fresh Market coming in here. I heard about that but do not
see it anywhere.

[phillisk]

What happened to Fresh market. Is it still coming?

[ddnelson]

For those who saw my message re an Indian Restaurant, try the Amrit Palace in Ocala at 2635 SW College Rd...actuall it is on hwy 200 and watch for it on the north side as you travel west...nice small family run...good service, good food (if you like Indian food), nothing fancy. David Nelson (dddelson@atlantic.net).

[Ice Cold]

I would pay a $100 for a Wegman's sub!!!!
Mighty Taco, Ted's Hot Dog or Anderson Custard would be nice too!!!
I wouldnt mind a beef on weck ;D

[pajames]

PaJames,

Heading up to MD for a visit and high on the list is some Ledo's Pizza.

Actually, there is a Ledo's franchise in Altamonte Springs, not too far from the Costco there. But, it is an ugly drive from TV to there....most directly on 441 through lots of towns and traffic lights. We were driving back from Costco and the Big "L" in the Ledos logo caught my eye...came back to the computer and sure enough it was a Ledo's restaurant.


Villages07,
We go to the Ledo's in Altamonte Springs every time we go to Costco. We know the owners, they are from Forestville, Md. Next time you go tell Tina and Steve that you want a Ledo's in TV. My wife and I were both born in DC but grew up in MD. I graduated from Bladensburg High School, my wife graduated from LaRaine High School (Catholic School). We both retired from the old Bell Atlantic (now Verizon).
Paul

[villages07]

Paul,

Got my Ledo's fix this past Monday at the franchise in Chesapeake Beach (Calvert County). Just yesterday, went onto Ledo website and sent them a suggestion, as well as a link to the TOTV pizza post, to get a franchise here. It would do sooooooo well here in TV....just not that much good, reasonably priced pizza around here.


I am also a PG County native (Crossland High School) back when it was a good place to grow up and get an education. Ended up in Calvert before moving to TV. Knew some of the local Catholic girls who went to LaReine.

[Rokinronda]

This may be a RI only thing......Del's frozen lemonade and Walt's Roast beef. The lemonade would be a welcome treat especially in the summer! It is better than any I've EVER had! SOOOOO REFRESHING..............and the Walt's melts in your mouth. YUMMY... ::)

[Russ_Boston]

Yes it is a RI thing but I would bet my house that a Del's stand in LSL and SS would work. Can't cost much for a franchise license and the recipe. Not sure if TV would allow (and for what price?) a mobile stand though. Maybe I'll look into it. My wife could use a project!

[bobfl]

Yes Dels would be great. I heard a story years ago that they tried to bring Dels to Fla but the difference in the water changed the flavor and it didn't sell well. Just a rumor though and maybe it would work in TV. I always stop on hot days in the Summer and get my Dels fix. They are everywhere in RI.

[marianne237]

re: Del's lemonade. Isn't this the item Emeril always mentioned on his show?

[Russ_Boston]

I don't watch the show but Emeril is from southeast MA (Fall River i think) and they have Del's in most of eastern MA. It is an unusual flavor of slushy style frozen lemonade. Lemon taste but not bitter nor too sweet.

[pajames]

Paul,

Got my Ledo's fix this past Monday at the franchise in Chesapeake Beach (Calvert County). Just yesterday, went onto Ledo website and sent them a suggestion, as well as a link to the TOTV pizza post, to get a franchise here. It would do sooooooo well here in TV....just not that much good, reasonably priced pizza around here.


I am also a PG County native (Crossland High School) back when it was a good place to grow up and get an education. Ended up in Calvert before moving to TV. Knew some of the local Catholic girls who went to LaReine.


Villages07
I grew up in Landover & Landover Estates. My wife and I lived in Bowie from 1983 to 1997. We then moved to the mountains in Shenandoah county, VA, a place called Fort Valley. While we were in Bowie we frequented Eddies Place in Crofton, I believe this was Ledo's first franchise. The nearest Ledo's where we lived in Fort Valley was Charlestown, WVA. We would go there about 3 or 4 time a year, then play the slots at the Race track - about 65 miles - 1 way, but worth the trip.
Paul

[Sidney Lanier]

There's a wonderful convenience store chain in NJ and PA (and possibly other states) called 'Wawa' where I can get my large chai tea, freshly made, for $1.19! Would be thrilled to have a Trader Joe's here--and absolutely agree about Wegman's!!!

[redwitch]

roflao ... Was just going to do a post and ask what a "Wawa" was. I'm reading a book that mentions going past a Wawa (story based in Philly area). Tnx!!!!

[barbualoha]

I WANT TRADER JOE'S. I MISS THEM. PLEASE GET THEM HERE!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Cajungirl]

My husband and I love Jason's Deli. Slim chance on that, right?

[rdmills]

FYI The D Q on 466 closed.

[marianne237]

A Bennigans would be nice down here. There's 2 in Ocala and they make the best ribs...not dry like Sonny's.

[ouma1938]

Are there any Indian Restuarants in TV or nearby? We don't have any near us and have to drive 45 miles to Greenville for one. I'd love a good Chicken Tikka Masala or Tandoori Chicken right now. An Indian restuarant around TV would be the icing on the cake. :hot:

[ejp52]

X-MART :joke: :redface:

[chelsea24]

>:( Oh Noooooooo the DQ closed! I loved them. I'm sorry to hear that.

[nONIE]

Blizzard depravation! I got it! :'(

[graciegirl]

Kohls, Steinmart and Penneys!!!! We went to some of the lovely shops near KatieBelles and they just weren't my cup of tea.

Truth is, too pricey (I thought) and not my size. If I can't find a Kohls, Steinmart or Penneys and we move down here, (Which is pretty likely) I soon will be running naked through the streets, and THAT is not a pretty sight.

[ilovesoup]

According to the sign on the southeast side of 441 and Rolling Acres, there is an AC Moore coming near the Longhorn Steakhouse.

I want a Crate and Barrell!!!! They have beautiful home accessories and furniture.

[The Great Fumar]

Two of the walls are up on the new Sam's Club next to home depot.....

[Happy62]

OLIVE GARDEN

[Just Susan]

OLIVE GARDEN


:agree: :agree: :agree: Totally agree
.......and a really good authentic Mexican hole in the wall restaurant, not owned by a chain but rather someone from Juarez or Tijuana. Hmmmmm.