FORK ON THE ROAD

801 CITY GRILLE GET GRILLED

STORY: THERESA CAMPBELL PHOTOS: FRED LOPEZ

In the heart of Clermont’s historical downtown district sits 801 City Grille, which provides a pleasant ambiance and beautifully warm décor that immediately sets the tone for a relaxing experience.

My dining companion and I wished the background music had been just as soothing. The restaurant’s gorgeous atmosphere begs for classical music or strings rather than the slightly distracting radio talk/music we heard on a recent weeknight.

Luckily, we were won over with an appetizer of fresh mushrooms stuffed with delicious crabmeat, and it had just the right amount of a spicy kick.

Montrose Chicken Frisco, featuring boneless chicken sautéed and smothered with mushrooms, onions, and topped with Swiss cheese and a sherry wine sauce, is listed as one of several house specialties.

The 801 City Grille is also noted for its slow-roasted prime rib, an array of salads, appetizers, sandwiches, steaks, seafood, and other chicken dishes.

My friend chose the Chicken Parmesan, featuring three boneless fresh chicken breasts lightly breaded in Italian bread crumbs, sautéed, and topped with Marinara sauce and Mozzarella cheese that was baked and served over Angel Hair Pasta. “It’s excellent,” she said, pleased by the large serving, which meant she could take half home for her husband to enjoy.

I ordered the prime rib, yet our server returned and revealed the cut of beef was chewier and not as tender as the restaurant wanted to serve, so my order was changed to a delicious 14-ounce New York Steak. I did appreciate the restaurant charging me for prime rib over the costlier steak. It’s important to keep in mind 801 City Grille is only open for evening hours of 3:30 to 10 p.m. Monday to Saturday with Happy Hour from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. The restaurant has a private banquet room—ideal for groups and special occasion events.

801 CITY GRILLE

801 W. Montrose St. Clermont 352.394.6911

OLD TIME DINER DINE BACK IN TIME

STORY: LEIGH NEELY PHOTOS: FRED LOPEZ Open the door to the Old Time Diner in Leesburg and step back into the world of Elvis, Marilyn Monroe, and skinny Frank Sinatra. Black and white photos line the walls of these wonderful stars of the 50s along with many others. The familiar black-and-white tiled fl oor reminds you of “Happy Days” and their favorite hangout.

When we had lunch, the place was hopping but things were bopping along with ease. The servers are friendly and helpful. I ordered the Reuben sandwich with fries and my friend enjoyed a salad along with spaghetti and meatballs with toasty garlic bread.

Our server recommended the gyros because the owner is Greek, and it’s one of his specialties. The burgers were also highly recommended because they’re made with fresh meat and made into patties by hand. We’ll defi nitely try those at some point.

The meals were delicious, though I have to say the sandwich was not piled with meat like one normally expects from a deli sandwich, but that did not take away from the great fl avor of the meat and sauerkraut with the sweetness of the sauce. The fries were hot and crispy and delicious.

Though she may have planned to take part of her meal home for dinner, I must admit my companion enjoyed all of her tasty spaghetti. She gave me a bit of the sauce, and it’s obviously made fresh.

We didn’t opt for dessert, though the ice cream and milkshakes were tempting.

The prices are very reasonable. The wait for our food wasn’t long, and everyone was friendly and courteous. And, if you love Elvis, you’ll enjoy all the photos and a lot of good memories about the great stars of the 50s.

On our way out, we met Chef Bono, the owner of the restaurant. He was delightful and obviously enjoying himself in the new restaurant. With more than 25 years of experience in the restaurant business, he has also had restaurants in Brooklyn, Baltimore, and North Caroline.

With a winning smile and a handshake, he said, “Be sure to tell all your friends about our place. We’re excited to be here.”

I think I’ll be excited to go next time too.

OLD TIME DINER

1350 W N Blvd Leesburg 352.805.4250