31 minute read
Final Thought
My nod to the classic Easter ham in this no recipe is the thinly sliced prosciutto. This delicacy is an Italian dry-cured ham now found in most supermarket delis. The salty bite from the ham along with the buttery texture is the perfect addition to this tart.
Shaved Asparagus, Roasted Tomato, & Prosciutto Tart
Ingredients
¼ cup all-purpose flour (for your work surface)
1 sheet frozen puff pastry
2 cups Swiss cheese, shredded
Salt and pepper ½ lb. asparagus, woody ends removed
1 pint grape tomatoes
1 tablespoon olive oil
4 oz. prosciutto, sliced into thin ribbons
Directions
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. To prepare roasted tomatoes, spread the pint of grape tomatoes on a small sheet pan. Toss lightly with olive oil, salt and pepper to taste. Set aside while you prepare your tart dough so they can cook at the same time.
On a floured surface, roll the puff pastry into a 16x10-inch rectangle. Transfer your puff pastry to an ungreased baking sheet. Lightly score the dough an inch from the edge of the pastry to mark a rectangle. This allows an outer crust to form. Next, use your fork to pierce the dough inside the markings, about every inch or so. Bake the puff pastry until golden, about 15 minutes. The tomatoes go in at the same time and should be stirred once. When they start to pop and shrivel up at 8-10 minutes, remove them from the oven.
Now it’s time to top your tart. Sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese over the inside rectangle of the tart. Next, using your vegetable peeler, peel long flat strips of the asparagus. Sprinkle the shaved asparagus over the Swiss cheese, top the asparagus with roasted tomato jewels and finish with the ribbons of asparagus. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Bake until toppings are lightly golden and cheese is melted, 10-12 minutes.
Coconut, Granola, & Yogurt Parfaits
Ingredients
8 oz. shredded coconut
32 oz. vanilla yogurt 3 pints fresh berries
6 cups of your favorite granola
Directions
I love this recipe best with toasted coconut. However, this is an optional step. To toast the coconut, stir coconut in a dry nonstick skillet until it begins to get golden brown. This is not the time to make a phone call or turn your back on the pan. It will go from pale white to golden very quickly. Stir the coconut frequently, then transfer it to a diff erent container. This can be done up to three days in advance.
To assemble the parfaits, start with ½-cup of yogurt in the bottom of each wine glass. Top the yogurt with your berry blend; this can be done the day before, just keep the glasses covered. Just before serving, sprinkle granola over the berries, and garnish with toasted coconut and a few fresh berries.
To fi nish off this delightful brunch, pour mimosas for your family and loved ones. Making them is easy; just pour equal parts of champagne to any juice you love. The classic is orange juice, but you also could use cranberry juice, peach nectar, mango juice— the possibilities are endless. So, turn off your phones, dine with your loved ones, and be thankful for all new beginnings. Happy Easter and Happy Spring!
For an extra special touch you can serve your desserts in decorative glasses.
PALMER LEGENDS COUNTRY CLUB
Exquisite dining experience
WRITER: THERESA CAMPBELL // PHOTO: FRED LOPEZ
Warm, handsome décor of rich dark leather and a burning fi replace offer old-world ambiance at Palmer Legends Country Club in The Villages, where a spectacular view of the golf course makes this a “must” for fi ne dining and a delicious meal.
Palmer Legends does not disappoint. The proof was when a friend and I noticed a large overfl ow of people willing to wait two hours for a table—on a Monday night!—and soon we understood why: Succulent Maine lobster cooked to perfection was the day’s special well into the night.
After our server Amanda arrived carrying a warm loaf of bread with tasty herb butter, we chose a Surf and Turf meal of 7-ounces of bacon-wrapped fi let mignon and Maine lobster tail—both featuring melt-in-yourmouth tender goodness—accompanied by fresh green beans and potatoes. My friend ordered the baked potato—served with the wonderful herb butter—and I had garlic redskinned mashed potatoes.
Our perfect dinner was capped off with delectable desserts of Bourbon Pecan Pie served warm and a la mode with vanilla bean ice cream and sweet bourbon drizzle, and Chocolate Trilogy, featuring stacked layers of white milk and dark chocolate mousse.
Palmer Legends is defi nitely the place to impress visitors, and casual attire is accepted.
The country club’s large windows and spacious outdoor patio allow guests to watch golfers practice on the driving range, and there are photographs of the club’s namesake, late legendary golfer Arnold Palmer, to view up close.
Two lunch menu sandwiches are named in his honor, including the Palmer Melt, with melted cheddar cheese, grilled onions and thousand island dressing on marbled rye.
A Sunday brunch from 11am-2pm sounds inviting, and once again, the Maine lobster at Palmer Legends is a real treat— topping the lobster I once enjoyed at Martha’s Vineyard.
5
Forks
(Out of a possible 5)
Palmer Legends Club
1635 Palmer Way, The Villages
352.750.4499
Hours: 11 am-9pm daily.
Fork Report:
Casual dining. $$ Seated immediately (dinner hour)
WAIT FOR MEAL: 15minutes
OUT-OF-THE-ORDINARY STARTERS: ($5-$14): Artichokes Francese, Baked Brie Encroute, Sesame Seared Ahi Tuna.
ENTREES: ($10$39): California Burger, Shrimp and Lobster Alfredo, Veal Chop Marsala, New Zealand Lamb Rack.
How Fork On The Road Works Our reviewers are objective and unbiased. This is not a paid feature. Our reviewer makes one unannounced visit and we pay for our meals.
WHALE’S TALE FISH HOUSE
A good catch
STORY: LEIGH NEELY // PHOTO: FRED LOPEZ
I’m not exaggerating my tale—this is a great place to eat. We had a late lunch on a Saturday, so it wasn’t crowded, but customers were coming in steadily.
We began our meal with a cup of New England clam chowder. It was hearty and creamy and loaded with chunks of clam and potatoes. Served with oyster crackers, it was the perfect starter.
I enjoyed the catfi sh basket with fries and coleslaw, while my husband had the seafood duo with trout and scallops garnished with onion rings. His two sides were boiled red potatoes and coleslaw. The slaw was very good because it was fresh and crispy and not smothered in mayonnaise. We both enjoy our meals fried, and the breading was perfect. It was light and crispy and didn’t overwhelm the fi sh. Both meals came with hush puppies that reminded me of my mother’s. I’m kind of picky about tartar sauce because sometimes there’s too much sweetness to it, but this was excellent and just enhanced the fl avor of the fi sh.
The atmosphere is very casual, but nice and comfortable. Service was quick and attentive, and we truly enjoyed ourselves.
Whale’s Tail Fish House // 2720 W. Old U.S. Highway 441, Mount Dora // 352.385.1500
SAN JOSE’S ORIGINAL MEXICAN RESTAURANT
It’s Mexcellant
WRITER: JAMES COMBS // PHOTO: FRED LOPEZ
In 1968, Dionne Warwick released the popular song, “Do You Know the Way to San Jose?”
Yep, I most certainly do. And going there is well worth the trip. No, I didn’t drive to the scenic city in California, I dined at San Jose’s Original Mexican Restaurant in Clermont.
Three friends and I sat in a spacious booth, with an overhead lamp that nicely illuminated the restaurant’s extensive menu. Mexican music played softly in the background and didn’t drown out conversation.
Our waiter, Andres Ortega, brought out chips and salsa, and the chips were warm and the salsa was fl avorful with a nice kick—but not too hot. For an appetizer, we ordered the Sampler Platter, featuring a diverse selection of quesadillas, chimichangas, fl autas, nachos, and tamales. I particularly enjoyed the tamale because of the tender, shredded chicken that is steamed to perfection in a cornhusk.
For my entrée, I went with the tried-andtrue chimichanga. It did not disappoint. The golden brown, pan-fried exterior was smothered in a delicious cheese sauce, and the inside was loaded with seasoned ground beef and savory spices.
Next time, I’ll likely try the California Burrito Jr. That’s what my friend ordered, and it looked delicious. It comes with grilled steak, sour cream, guacamole, lettuce, rice, and refried beans. Another friend selected an enchilada and taco combination, which looked equally tasty.
We rounded out our meal with delicious fried ice cream.
If you’re craving scrumptious Mexican food, it’s time to fi nd your way to San Jose. Fortunately, the trip won’t be far for residents of Leesburg because the restaurant’s owners recently opened a new location there.
San Jose’s Original Mexican Restaurant // 4315 U.S. Hwy. 27, Clermont // 352.526.2006
Tiki West Raw Bar & Grill
The upbeat, colorful cafe also has a cozy patio with seating for about 50.
Tiki West Raw Bar and Grill serves lunch, dinner, and drinks, welcomes groups and kids, and has takeout service.
Tiki West is open from 11am-10pm Sunday through Thursday and 11am-11pm Friday and Saturday.
For information, call 352.589.5783 or go to www.facebook.com/ tikiwestrawbarandgrill
Find your island at Tiki West
Raw bar serving up tasty oysters, specialty beers and sports
PAID PROMOTIONAL FEATURE
They’re baaaack!
The char-grilled oysters were so popular a year ago at Tiki West Raw Bar and Grill, the owners have decided to bring them back for another helping.
Seafood lovers can fi nd their favorite ocean delicacy at Tiki West, which opened in January 2015 at 118 W. Ruby St., Tavares. With a laid-back vibe, casual attire, hammock swings hanging in the bar, and Caribbean music fl oating through the restaurant, customers may feel like
they’re on their own private island in the revitalized downtown of America’s Seaplane City.
Along with the char-grilled oysters, the restaurant is featuring buffalo oysters, grilled with buffalo sauce and served with bleu cheese. Customers also can get an eyeful of oysters at the oyster bar, where they’re put right up on the bar, and served raw or steamed.
All-you-can-eat specials allow hearty eaters to indulge in crab legs, peel n’ eat shrimp, fried shrimp, coconut shrimp, fried mahi mahi, or fried clam strips.
The signature menu items also include shrimp and grits with a vodka Creole sauce,
and pork belly strips with wilted kale and a poached egg.
“We strive to offer quality seafood, and we try to put a twist on everything, not just generic fl avors,” says Katie Clark, one of the owners of the restaurant.
To wash down all the good food, Tiki West has a huge selection of craft beers in bottles and cans.
“We have some newer and different fl avors to bring in, and we also concentrate on some local breweries,” Katie says.
One new label is the Islamorada Beer Company from the Keys, and Cigar City from Tampa is a big seller at the bar, she says.
Two of the best specials during the “All Day Every Day Tiki Hour” are doubles of Tito’s Vodka, Captain Morgan and Bacardi for $7.
Surrounding the oyster bar are 11 TVs, showing the NFL Ticket, the Major League Baseball package, and Orlando City’s away soccer games, which attract crowds for viewing parties.
Cruising beyond the port
Portugal’s Douro River Valley is getting an international reputation for its distinctive red wines created in some unlikely rocky vineyards.
STORY: MARY ANN DESANTIS, WSET
Many people think the only wine that Portugal has to offer is port, the fortifi ed sweet wine that is a delicious accompaniment to desserts. Up until a few years ago, fi nding a dry red, unfortifi ed Portuguese wine in the United States was tough. Now they seem to be everywhere. For the fi rst time, they’ve even cracked the prestigious Top 100 Wines list from Wine Spectator magazine.
Located west of Spain on the Atlantic Ocean, Portugal’s Douro Valley—the country’s major wine-growing region—seems an unlikely spot for vineyards, with its rocky crystalline “schist” (called slate in other European regions) and harsh summer sun. However, the Portuguese
The Grape: Touriga Nacional
Used mainly in port wines, the Touriga Nacional grape is native to the Douro and Dão regions of Portugal, where winemakers are creating some interesting red wines. The grape, often used as a building block in blends, is to Portugal what the Cabernet grape is to France. The rich color creates dark wines with complex aromas.
Pairing Suggestion: Game meats and/or strong cheeses
It takes strong food flavors to stand up to Portuguese dry red wines, which have complex tannins and can be quite concentrated. Red meat and game are good pairing choices, as is French foie gras.
knew best what would grow on those vertical sloping hillsides—the Touriga Nacional grape. While other countries rushed to plant French vines, Portugal stuck to the indigenous grape variety and now is giving Bordeaux-style blends a little competition with complex wines of its own.
Red wines made from the Touriga Nacional grape can seem harsh with the fi rst sip. All the Portuguese wines I tasted needed to breathe for at least 30 minutes or be decanted. Only then did the softer fl avors emerge.
“When trying Douro wines for the fi rst time, the taste can be very different,” explains winemaker Miguel Roquette, whose family has owned Quinta do Crasto for more than a century. “They also have lots of minerality because the vineyards are planted in rocky schist.”
Roquette conducted a master class at last year’s Atlanta Food and Wine Festival, where his Crasto Superior wines were tasted alongside varietals from other countries, including France. He described the Portuguese varietals as new wines made with old traditions.
“Everything is handpicked and hand-crushed,” the fourth-generation winemaker says.
After sampling several Portuguese wines from the Douro region and one from Dão, south of the Douro River, I was surprised at the differences among them. I also learned that many Portuguese wines have the word “Quinta” as part of the name. Though the word means large house (think “Chateau” on French labels), it is an offi cial designation to show the grapes came from that specifi c estate. “Superior” in the title means the grapes are from the Upper Douro, the fl attest, driest area that produces some of the best grapes.
Over the past few weeks, I’ve heard many misconceptions about wines from Portugal. The most common was that Portugal doesn’t produce good red wine except port. I wouldn’t describe the red unfortifi ed wines as poolside sipping wines. After all, they tend to be like a sledgehammer in your mouth if they haven’t had time to breathe or haven’t been decanted.
As I opened the bottles, I was reminded of a quote that winemaker Roquette shared from his grandfather back in Portugal: “Anyone who says they know everything about wine is a fool, because wine is constantly evolving.”
That was certainly the case when it came to discovering these Portuguese wines:
CASA ERMELINDA FREITAS TOURIGA NACIONAL RESERVA 2013: This full-body, concentrated wine screamed “licorice” on the first taste. After it had time to breathe, the bouquet became more floral and the taste evolved into jammy fruit. It was excellent served with flank steak pinwheels stuff ed with spinach and provolone. (Suggested retail: $14.99)
FEUERHEERD’S DOURO DOC RED 2013:Tearing through the bright white wrapper that comes around this bottle was like opening a surprise gift. I didn’t know what to expect. The aroma was very pleasant—more fruity than earthy—but the taste was definitely minerally, like slate. However, there was a party in my mouth when I paired it with chocolate cookies. Those sweet treats brought out the dark fruit flavors. (Suggested retail: $13.99)
BARÃO DE VILAR RED DOC DÃO 2011: The Dão region is south of the famous Douro River, but it also claims the Touriga Nacional grape as its own. The medium-bodied wine is blended with two other grape varieties, which gives it a smoother taste, and a little spice. I paired it with a meatball sub. (Suggested retail: $11.99)
QUINTA DO CRASTO SUPERIOR DOURO DOC 2013: Also a blend of several grape varieties, this deep purple wine has elegant aromas of violets and delicate hints of cocoa. It paired nicely with cured meats and manchego cheese. (Suggested retail: $23)
QUINTA DAS CARVALHAS RESERVA DOC 2014 : I had this wine on my birthday with a Brazilian steak. I was so happy to find it locally because it is an excellent alternative for more expensive Bordeaux blends. Just as with the others, this wine must be decanted and needs to be paired with a strong dish or game. (Suggested retail: $19.99)
Mary Ann DeSantis
Mary Ann DeSantis is a fellow of the Symposium for Professional Wine Writers, Napa Valley, and recently received certification from the Wine & Spirits Educational Trust (WSET). An award-winning journalist, she has written for Lake & Sumter Style since 2006.
Festival Time
The 2017 Atlanta Food and Wine Festival is scheduled for June 1-4 in midtown Atlanta. Wine lovers of all levels can enjoy classes and tastings with winemakers and chefs.
1884 Restaurant and Bar
12 E. Magnolia Ave., Eustis // 1.800.856.1884 // 1884restaurantandbar.com Mon-Sat: 11 am–12 am // Sun 11am-10pm
Located in the historic Ferran’s building in downtown Eustis 1884 Restaurant and bar is a must for all to discover. 1884 has everything from Boars Head wraps and hand pressed burgers at lunch to hand cut filets and the signature double bone in pork chop at dinner. They also off er Sushi 7 days a week lunch and dinner. With more than 10000 sf, 1884 can accommodate an intimate dinner for two to a private event of up to 100 in one of the three semi-private rooms. Diners can also enjoy the full-service bar while ordering custom craft cocktails, 8 rotating beers on tap and an amazing wine list. Join 1884 on Mondays for Prime Rib Special… Tuesdays, where kids eat free*…Wednesdays you can get $4 by the glass or free bottle of house wine*… Thursdays off er Wing special with Friday and Saturday always the best dinner specials around and on Sundays, they serve a traditional style brunch from 11 – 3. No doubt, there is something for everyone. This restaurant has won in 6 categories for L2016 Lake and Sumter Style’s hot list as well as Open Tables Restaurant of the month several months running. You can also enjoy live entertainment nightly. Check us out on facebook for all the details.
Call 1.800.856.1884 to reserve your table or book your party now. Lunch, dinner, live entertainment. 1884restaurantandbar.com to be the first to know of all specials, entertainers and events.
The 24 Tap Room
1107 W. North Blvd., Suite 26, Leesburg // 352.315.0198 Mon-Thu 3 p.m-12 am // Fri 3 p.m-1 am // Sat 12 pm-1 am // Sun 12 pm- 12 am
The 24 Tap Room is a fun and new craft beer and wine bar where you can enjoy 24 rotating taps, weekly live entertainment, trivia, board games, darts, and special nightly events. Visit on Sundays to watch NFL football on one of several 48-inch TV’s inside or on their outdoor patio. Proprietor Alberto Cisneros says, “We’re focused on bringing an ever-changing selection of some of the best locally-brewed beer in the state, as well as other great craft brews from across the country, to discerning beer lovers in Lake County.” A variety of appetizers are now available, including Sweet Potato Tots, Pulled Pork Sliders, Pub Pretzels, Black Bean and Chicken Nachos and Grilled Chicken Quesadillas.
The Country Club of Mount Dora
1900 Country Club Blvd., Mount DOra 352.735.4059
Come enjoy a great meal at the Country Club of Mount Dora overlooking the beautiful greens of the golf course. We serve lunch daily and breakfast on weekends. Be sure to bring your appetite for our half-pound burgers made your way, thick cut Reuben sandwiches, delicious Greek salad, and much more. We serve a full breakfast menu every Saturday and Sunday including Eggs Benedict, French toast, omelettes, and much more. Come join us!
Cousin Vinnie’s Family Sports Restaurant
Open seven days a week: 11am–9pm // Food, Spirits, Music, Sports 10700 U.S. Hwy. 441, Leesburg // 352.253.2442 // CVinnies.com
Cousin Vinnie’s is located on U.S. Hwy. 441 across from Home Depot. Owner “Cousin” Vinnie Vittoria and his family have created a unique atmosphere by combining a sports bar with a family restaurant. As soon as you walk into Vinnie’s you will immediately notice why they are famous for outstanding comfort food and service! They also have been voted BEST WINGS in Lake County every year since opening in 2009. Additional menu items off ered are killer ½ lb. burgers, personal pan pizzas, amazing ribeye cheese steaks, healthy wheat wraps, fresh homemade salads, chicken strips that totally melt in your mouth, 16 awesome appetizers and their signature deep fried Ice Cream and Snickers Bars! Every Monday is “Texas Hold’em” from 6–10pm Tuesday night is “Family Night” from 4–8pm when kids 12-and-under eat free. Wednesday night is “Trivia Night” when the fun starts at 6:30pm with prizes given to the top 3 teams. There is no better place on the weekends to see who hoists the trophy or takes home the checkered flag. Cousin Vinnie’s also off ers, free Wi-Fi, great music and an enthusiastic staff , ready to exceed your expectations. Vinnie’s has been open eight years, if you have never been there… it is absolutely time for you to check it out!
Cuba Pichy’s Cuisine
10401 U.S. Highway 441, Leesburg // at Via Port Mall 352.365.2822
If you’re in the mood for a flavorful, authentic Cuban food experience, then Cuba Pichy’s Cuisine, located at ViaPort Florida Mall in Leesburg, is just what you’re looking for. The menu includes classic dishes such as Roast Pork, Ropa Vieja, Palomilla steak, and popular dishes such as Arroz con Pollo, Churrasco, Mofongo, vegetarian and seafood dishes, as well as a selection of Pichy’s Masterpieces. Most dishes are served with rice, black beans, and sweet plantains. Appetizers like Cuba’s Gran Combo, a variety of delicious items including Masitas Fritas, Chicharrones de Pollo, Ham-croquettes, and sweet plantains; Pichy’s beef empanadas filled with spicy, flavorful ground beef encased in a delicious flaky baked pastry, Cuban sandwiches, specialty desserts and Cuban coff ee are always available.
Cuba also features a full-service bar, and a private banquet room that can accommodate up to 40 guests, and, as a bonus, Pichy will create a specialty menu just for your group.
The Goblin Market Restaurant & Lounge
331-B Donnelly Street (Rear Alley), Mount Dora // 352.735.0059 // GoblinMarketRestaurant.com Lunch: Tue–Sat 11am–3:00pm // Dinner: Tue–Thu 5–9pm, Fri–Sat 5–10pm, Sun 11am–3:30pm
Nestled on a back alley in downtown Mount Dora, the Goblin Market Restaurant has been charming locals and tourists alike since 1996. The restaurant, housed in a renovated warehouse, features three intimate, book-lined dining rooms and a full-service lounge furnished in soothing, muted tones with tasteful modern art. The private, tree-shaded courtyard and garden patio are open year-round for al fresco dining. Low lighting and “new age” music add the finishing touches to the restaurant’s casual elegance. Owners Vince and Janis Guzinski embrace a simple philosophy of off ering the highest-quality products, served in a unique and romantic atmosphere by a personable and attentive staff . The Goblin Market’s wine list and menu represent a refreshing mix of ideas from its culinary team. The diversified origins and background of each member ensure exciting menu off erings and nightly selections.
Join us for our new “lighter fare” dinner menu, gourmet soups, salads, and sandwiches. Tuesday–Thursday from 3–9pm (regular dinner menu also available).
Great Chicago Fire Brewery & Tap Room
311 W. Magnolia St., Leesburg // 352.474.2739 Mon-Thu 11 am-10 pm // Fri-Sat 11 am-12 am // SUNDAY 12 pm-6 pm
It’s a fun, friendly place to hang with friends and to meet new ones. Our Chicago/Firefighter themed Tap Room off ers 6-8 of our own “session” beers featuring fresh Florida fruits and other local ingredients. Our beers are brewed on premise. We also off er (10) guest taps featuring beers from small craft breweries across the U.S. There is something for everyone. Our “Chicago” Style food menu features items like real Italian Beefs with Giardiniera peppers. Italian Sausage, the Maxwell Street Polish Sausage, Gyros, Pizza Puff s, Tamales and even the original Chicago Hot Dog “Run through the garden.” All your favorite footballs teams are playing on six (6) TVs with the NFL Package. Enjoy our spacious outdoor seating area with live music many weekends. We are located Historic Downtown Leesburg which off ers a great shopping experience with specialty shops, antique stores, and a host of unique food and drink establishments. Every third Thursday, we partner with Gator Harley in Leesburg for our Bike Night; Live music, beer and food specials, BBQ, prizes and more, right here at the brewery! SPONSORED BY:
Find us online:
JOIN US FOR BIKE NIGHT ON APR. 13TH
La Palma
1690 Citrus Blvd., Leesburg // 352.323.1444 // LapalmaGrill.com Open Daily 11:00am – 9:00pm // Lunch Specials: 11:00am – 3:00pm
Owner Raudel Torres invites you to a delicious dining experience at the La Palma Mexican Grill. The recipes used for these unique dishes are a blend of old-school traditions from Mexico, combined with culinary inspirations and trends from California and Louisiana. Flavorful, homemade Mexican entrees such as Tacos Azteca, Carnitas, Fajitas, and Tamales and much more are timeless and prepared with only the freshest ingredients. Sit in the comfortable dining room or enjoy the outdoor view on the new patio deck. Fast and friendly service, reasonable prices, and three-for-one margaritas all day every day mean exceeding customer expectations. In addition to in-house service, catering is available for large parties, or meetings. Daily specials available on the website, lapalmagrill.com and you can enjoy a Mariachi band the first and third Sunday of each month.
BWWAAAK! Chico Loves The New Patio!
Mason Jar
37534 State Road 19, Umatilla // 352.589.2535 Mon–Sat 6am-8pm // Sun 6am-2pm
Established in 1979, The Mason Jar is well-known for southern style, downhome cooking; sparkling clean, casual dining room; family-friendly hospitality and reasonable prices. Located in Umatilla at 37534 State Road 19, and family-owned, the restaurant is a welcome sight for travelers and locals alike. Seven days a week patrons enjoy breakfasts of homemade grits, real fried potatoes, fluff y biscuits, country ham, and mile-high pancakes. If you are a late riser, you can still enjoy daily specials: Monday-Meatloaf; Tuesday-Beef Tips and Noodles; Wednesday-Liver and Onions; Thursday-Fried Chicken; Friday-All you can eat Fish Fry; Saturday-Fried Chicken Livers and Sunday-Award-winning, all-you-can-eat Fried Chicken. Other favorites include various beans (pintos, lima, northern) with rice, served with onion slices and corn muff ins, homemade soups, fresh vegetables for sides, and of course, the meal wouldn’t be complete without a glass of southern sweet tea!
Awards: Orlando Sentinel’s Best Fried Chicken in Lake County (March, 2015) Orlando Sentinel’s Best Breakfast in Lake County (March, 2015)
Mom & Dads
304 U.S. Hwy. 441, Lady Lake // 352.753.2722 Tue-Sat 4pm–9pm // Closed Sun & Mon
This little place in the heart of Lady Lake is a local favorite. All the food at Mom & Dad’s is authentic and homemade, from the famous sauce to pastas to the incredible desserts. Made from scratch in-house ravioli and lasagna. Many diners automatically order Spaghetti al la Bruzzi, which is the house specialty. This baked spaghetti has a meat sauce, mushrooms, and three cheeses. Add to that the homemade bread Papa prepares every day, and you’ve got a memorable meal. You can’t stop with the entrée, however. Mama’s homemade cakes are amazing! Moist and delicious German Chocolate, creamy, luxurious Red Velvet, Cannoli, and who doesn’t love Spumoni. If you’re looking for a great Italian dinner that will remind you of home and all the goodness of eating there, try Mom & Dad’s.
Mom & Dad’s also off ers a full gluten free menu featuring pizza, lasagna, ravioli, and desserts all made in-house from scratch.
Momiji Japanese Sushi and Grill
24400 State Road 44, Sorrento // 352.357.2285 // MomijiFL.com LUNCH: Mon-Fri 11am-3pm // DINNER: Mon-Thu 3-10pm, Fri 3-11pm, Sat 12-11pm, Sun 12-10pm
Momiji Japanese Sushi and Grill off ers a fine dining experience with a wide array of delicious Japanese fare, including 25 diff erent hibachi dishes on the dinner menu (10 at lunch) and nearly 30 diff erent varieties of chef’s special roll and a sushi bar that sushi lovers are bound to love. Among diners’ favorites are the Momiji Roll of lobster tempera, spicy tuna in soy wrap, topped with spicy king crab, mango, Momiji sauce and mango sauce, and the Sushi and Sashimi Combo with four pieces of sushi and nine pieces of sashimi and spicy tuna roll. Traditional dishes of soup and salad are available, along with starter from kitchen, starter from sushi bar, a la carte, entrée from sushi bar, rolls or hand rolls. Momiji notes its goal is to provide an unforgettable dining experience for all patrons.
Puddle Jumpers
111 W. Ruby St., Tavares // 352.508.5862 // PuddleJumpersLakeside.com Mon-Thu 11am-10pm // Fri-Sat 11am-12am // Sun 11am-8pm
Casual lakeside dining at its finest is what patrons experience at Puddle Jumpers overlooking Lake Dora in Tavares. The restaurant is a local favorite and has generated raves of being a great place for good fun with friends and private events. Come check out the off erings of delicious food and drinks from a fully stocked bar, including a wide array of fresh seafood specialties, appetizers, salads, pasta dishes, homemade soups, steaks and ribs from the grill. Puddle Jumpers is also the “go-to” place to enjoy live music and entertainment on most weekends. If you’ve never been to Puddle Jumpers, it’s absolutely time to take the plunge!
Subway
Subway.com
Custom-made, fresh sandwiches, salads, and flatbreads made right before your eyes. The “healthy” alternative to fast food.
Lady Lake // 208 W. Guava St. // 352.750.4929 Eustis // 469 Plaza Dr. // 352.357.7827 Mount Dora // 18870 U.S. Hwy. 441 // 352.735.4376 Leesburg // 2013 Citrus Blvd. // 352.787.6442 10135 U.S. Hwy. 441, Suite 4 // 352.326.3234 27405 U.S. Hwy. 27, Suite 4 // 352.314.8847 The Villages // 1580 Bella Cruz Drive // 352.750.9600 8796 S.E. 165th Mulberry Lane // 352.750.9991 1070 Lake Sumter Landing Drive // 352.205.8535 349 Colony Blvd. // 352.391.1657 Wildwood // 480 W. Gulf to Alantic Hwy. // 352.748.8800
Sully’s Smokehouse
10820 County Road 44, Leesburg // 352.483.RIBS (7427) Wed-Fri 11am–8pm // Saturday 11am-6pm
If you’re really hungry, you may want to try the Jumbo Pulled Pork Sandwich at Sully’s Smokehouse. It’s so big you can share it. Sully’s, which is rated No. 7 out of 97 restaurants in Leesburg on Trip Advisor, also prepared meals for catering events from 20 people to 500 people. Customers pick up their orders. Meals include ribs, chicken, pulled pork, and smoked sausage with sides of homemade Brunswick stew, cole slaw, baked beans, and collard greens, along with pasta salad, mustard potato salad, and mayo red-skinned potato salad. This family-run business has been around for nine years. For information or to order catering, call the restaurant at 352.483.RIBS (7427) or call owner Trent Sullivan’s cell phone at 352.267.4861.
Tiki West Raw Bar and Grill
118 Ruby St., Tavares // 352.508.5783 Sun-Thu 11am-10pm // Fri-Sat 11am-11pm
Tiki West Raw Bar and Grill has specials every day for you to enjoy. Daily specials include $2 off Dozens of Raw, Steamed, or Chargrilled Oysters on Tuesday; $9.99 Pound of Peel and Eat Shrimp on Wednesdays; $5 off Buckets of Oysters Thursday or Sunday; or $9.99 Mahi Mahi Beer Battered Fish Fry on Friday. This Tavares restaurant overlooking Lake Dora has outdoor dining area on the patio, indoor seating in the dining room, or take a seat at the oyster bar surrounded by 11 TVs. Diners also love the “All You Can Eat” Crab Legs at market price; Peel-and-Eat-Shrimp, Coconut Shrimp or Fried Shrimp for $25.99; Fried Mahi Mahi or Fried Clam Strips for $16.99. The best part about the All You Can Eat is you can reorder any of the All You Can Eat specials of equal or lesser value. Come check out our new lunch menu good Monday-Friday from 11-3. Some of the lunch specials include $6 Soup and Salad Combo, $7 Lunch Baskets and $12 Pound of Peel and Eat Shrimp. With great food specials and Happy Hour all day every day, Tiki West is the place to be!
Feline Politics
One is black; the other is white and gray. One is conservative and quite picky about his food. He’s also quite selective about the people he lets get close. The other is liberal about everything, including treats (one is never enough) and people. Anyone who comes to the door can pick her up.
STORY: MARY ANN DESANTIS
Meet my rescue cats: Ernie, the conservative, and Whitney, the liberal.
Both were abandoned kittens, refugees more or less. Even after they were cleaned up and displayed at a local pet store, no one wanted them. Ernie had too much long hair and was solid black, a symbol of bad luck for many superstitious souls. Whitney, on the other hand, would have been adopted sooner had she settled down. She liked to dart whenever she had the chance, chew cable wires, and was even known to hide jewelry. If ever a cat had an ADD personality, it was Whitney. She was returned once to the rescue organization by an elderly woman who wanted a calm “lap cat,” a trait that Whitney didn’t possess.
I fell in love with that bundle of energy immediately, though the rescue manager tried to steer me in another direction. When my husband, Tony, looked over and saw Whitney snuggled into my neck, he said to himself, “That cat is going home with us.”
Tony, on the other hand, couldn’t resist the huge gold eyes staring at us down from the next cage, which was labeled “Hemingway Cat.”
We brought them home together thinking there would be a period of adjustment. For unknown reasons, these two cats loved each other from the moment we opened the carrier door. When Ernie hid under the bed upon his arrival at our house, it was Whitney who went to fetch him. It’s almost as if she told him, “Hey, Buddy, we have a good thing going here.”
That’s not to say they don’t have disagreements. Despite being friends, neither cat likes to share or compromise. No matter how many toys are strewn around, there’s only one they both want and it’s at the same time. Turf battles are common, especially when it comes to sitting with Dad in his recliner.
Their friendly wrestling matches can turn into war with lots of hissing and posturing. Just as we think one is going for the other’s jugular, they stop. The one that walks away usually has a smirk that says, “OK, you can be in control now…for a while.”
At the end of the day, however, Whitney and Ernie forget their differences and settle down together in peaceful harmony, knowing that life is still good no matter which one has the position of power.
WHITNEY & ERNIE
