Brunch Royalty: The Bloody Mary — A History, A Mystery, and The Villages’ Best
They say every good story starts with a little spice — and in this case, maybe a celery stalk too.
The Bloody Mary isn’t just a drink. It’s a personality. A meal in a glass. A brunch ritual. And for me? It’s become a bit of an obsession lately.
A Sip of History
The origin of the Bloody Mary is as muddled as the drink itself — in the best way possible. Some say it was born in Paris in the 1920s at Harry’s New York Bar. Others claim it didn’t take shape until it hit the St. Regis Hotel in New York in the ’30s. Either way, it began as a simple vodka and tomato juice concoction. Over time, it grew up, glammed up, and spiced up.
Today, you’ll find them stacked sky-high with bacon, shrimp, pickles, olives, and even sliders. But whether you’re a purist or a garnish queen, there’s something about a well-made Bloody Mary that feels like a hug from the inside out — especially on a lazy Sunday morning.
What Makes a Bloody Mary So Special?
Let’s break it down:
- Vodka: Neutral, but essential. Think of it as the blank canvas.
- Tomato Juice: The heart of the drink — tangy, rich, and comforting.
- Spice: Worcestershire, Tabasco, horseradish, black pepper — that signature Bloody Mary kick.
- Acid: A squeeze of lemon or lime brightens everything up.
- Garnishes: From celery and olives to bacon and cheese skewers, these are more than decorative. They complete the experience.
It’s not just a cocktail. It’s a flavor journey. So let’s take a little trip…
Bloody Mary Showdown in The Villages
To uncover the best Bloody Mary in The Villages, I grabbed my notebook, my camera, and my craving for something bold, briny, and beautiful. While I know there are so many options, I tested just a few and here’s how each contender stacked up:
1. City Fire – $5 Bloody Sunday? Yes, Please!
Sometimes, simple and budget-friendly wins the day. For just $5, City Fire delivers a no-fuss Bloody Mary that still hits the spot. It’s the kind of drink that makes Sunday brunch feel just a little bit sassier without breaking the bank. Great flavor, served with a smile from Enver (at Lake Sumter Landing), and best of all — it leaves room in your wallet for some yummy apps.
2. Bluefin Grill & Bar – The Ultimate Garnish Game
Bluefin’s Loaded Bloody Mary isn’t just a cocktail — it’s a statement. You have to ask for it. Picture this: shrimp, bacon, a tomato wedge, artichoke heart, olive, cheese cube, lemon, lime, and celery, all in a Tajín-rimmed glass. It’s bold, it’s briny, it’s brunch in a glass. I almost needed a fork and a straw – wait…I DID use a fork. Flavor-wise? Tangy, zesty, and unapologetically loaded. And the bartender, Corrine, was pretty great too. While you’re there for brunch, I highly recommend the French Toast Brûlée! (that’s a story for another day)
3. Prima Italian Steakhouse – Make It Your Way
Prima offers a Bloody Mary bar, which is a brunch-lover’s dream. Build your own masterpiece with all the fixings, from sauces and spices to pickled veggies and more. It’s a choose-your-own-adventure cocktail, and no two are the same. Pro tip: go early — the good garnishes go fast!
4. The Toasted Yolk Café – Flavorful, But Missing a Little Spark
The Toasted Yolk Café‘s Bloody Mary comes garnished with lemon, lime, olive, okra, pepperoncini, and a pickle — a solid lineup! The menu promised a Tajín rim, though mine arrived without it, which left me a little underwhelmed. That said, the flavors were still fresh and satisfying, with a nice heat from the pepperoncini. Michael was behind the bar and took great care of me, but also make sure to bring a sweater…I was freezing. Next time I will sit outside on the patio to enjoy one of their other brunch cocktails and delicious food!
5. Arnold Palmer Legends Country Club – Fit for a King
The King’s Bloody Mary from Arnold Palmer Legends lives up to its name. It comes decked out with shrimp, lobster (yes, lobster!), a stuffed pepperoncini filled with bacon, bleu cheese-stuffed olives, celery, and lemon slices. It’s rich, indulgent, and totally worthy of a special occasion. If you’re looking for an upscale brunch drink, this one delivers luxury in every sip. And can we just talk about the view? Sitting on the outdoor patio made it a whole experience. Our server, Chelsea, did a fantastic job making sure we had everything we needed.
6. County Line Smokehouse & Spirits – Smoky, Savory, and So Satisfying
Though I had this one a while back, County Line Smokehouse & Spirits still holds a place in my Bloody Mary-loving heart. Their version is piled high with big olives, pickles, bacon, Parmesan cheese, lemon, and lime. It’s smoky, salty, and full of bold barbecue flair — perfect if you like your Bloody with a bit of country swagger.
And the Winner Is…
While each spot brought something unique to the table, Arnold Palmer Legends Country Club takes the Bloody Mary crown (or should I say celery stalk?) for creativity, flavor, and that oh-so-extra garnish that made it feel like a special occasion in a glass. And the view?! I will say Bluefin Grill & Bar was a VERY close second with it’s tangy zing…but the lobster & view gave Palmer’s the slight edge. I definitely need to write more about brunch in and around The Villages…that’s a whole other experience!
Sip, Savor, and Vote!
Have a favorite Bloody Mary in The Villages? I’d love to hear where you’ve had the best one! Drop your go-to spot in the comments, or better yet, tag @VillagerEats on Facebook with your own brunch-time Bloody Mary pics. As always, make sure to check out our Restaurants tab for your favorite spots.
Until next time, cheers to tomato tang and vodka vibes —
Debi
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Christmas 2025
Christmas 2025 – Dining Out in The Villages®
The holiday season has officially arrived, and with Christmas just around the corner, many of us are planning how we’ll celebrate! While some will be savoring a home-cooked feast with family and friends, others might be looking to let someone else handle the cooking (and the cleanup!) this year.
Whether your meal plans changed, you’re traveling, or you just want a delicious meal without spending the day in the kitchen, we’ve got you covered. If you’ll be in The Villages® on Christmas Day 2025 and are thinking about dining out, here are some local restaurants that are traditionally open on Christmas Day and ready to serve up some holiday cheer:
Spanish Springs™ Town Square and 42 to 441 Area
Bamboo Bistro
Denny’s
Perkins Restaurant & Bakery
Sakura Japanese Restaurant
Lake Sumter Landing Market Square™ and 466 to 466A Area
Calypso Restaurant & Bar (at The Waterfront Inn)
Chengs Chinese & Sushi Restaurant
IHOP
Sakura
Toojay’s Gourmet Deli
VKI Japanese Steakhouse
Brownwood Paddock Square™ and 466A to 44 Area
Toojay’s Gourmet Deli
World of Beer
Wolfgang Puck Kitchen + Bar
Sawgrass/South of 44
Country Club Restaurants
None
Nearby Community Favorites
*lists are not all-inclusive and only offers suggestions.
Tips for Dining Out on Christmas Day:
If you do plan to dine out on Christmas Day, a quick call ahead is always a good idea, as hours and menus can change. Most importantly, remember to be kind and patient with the restaurant teams who are working so we can all enjoy the holiday. Make sure to check out our Restaurant list for locations and contact info.
Thank you for supporting local restaurants and for being part of the Villager Eats community all year long. Your likes, shares, messages, and kind words mean more than you know. MERRY CHRISTMAS!
Celebrate National Ice Cream Day at Mystic Ice Cream’s New Oxford Location!
Happy National Ice Cream Day, Villagers! With the heat index soaring and back-to-back heat advisories in The Villages and surrounding areas, there’s never been a better excuse to treat yourself to something cold, creamy, and utterly delicious.
Lucky for us, Mystic Ice Cream just opened their brand-new location in Oxford — and it couldn’t have come at a better time!
What Makes Mystic Ice Cream So Unique?
If you’re not familiar with Mystic Ice Cream, you’re in for a real treat. Check out my first experience from 2022. Known for their vibrant, funky vibe and creative flavors (including boozy options for the adults), Mystic has built a loyal following in Central Florida. We’re so lucky we can enjoy their one-of-a-kind ice creams without venturing too far from home.
Whether you’re craving a classic scoop or something spiked with a splash of your favorite liqueur, Mystic has something for everyone. Plus, the atmosphere is just as fun as the flavors — think retro décor, music, and a laid-back community vibe.
- Pro Tip: Bring friends — this is one of those spots that’s even better when shared!
So why not make today a little sweeter? Grab your family, your neighbors, or your besties, and head over to Mystic Ice Cream to celebrate National Ice Cream Day the right way — with a cold treat in hand and a break from this brutal Florida heat.
Show Us Your Favorite Flavor!
And if you stop by, don’t forget to snap a pic and tag @VillagerEats on Facebook — we’d love to see which flavor you tried!
Where Are They?
Mystic Ice Cream now has four locations in our area: NEW – 3941 Co Rd 201 (right behind Gio’s Deli off 301), Oxford; 1217 W. Miller Blvd., Fruitland Park; 314 W. Main St., Leesburg; and 16770 South Hwy 441, Summerfield. Hours at all four stores are Sunday – Saturday 1:00pm – 9:00pm. And they can bring their delectable treats to your event in their tie-dyed food truck – check their website for the Magical Mystic Ice Cream Truck schedule.
Stay cool, friends — and happy scooping!
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Victory Sports Grill: A Winning Spot in Middleton
Another WIN for the FMK Hospitality Group with the opening of their latest establishment, VICTORY SPORTS GRILL. I love when plans fall through and you end up where you were meant to be – A Winning Spot in Middleton. Today I was fortunate to check out the Grand Opening festivities and see a part of The Villages I hadn’t seen yet.
If you’re looking for a fresh hangout spot to grab a bite, catch a game, and soak up some good vibes, Victory Sports Grill should be at the top of your list. Nestled directly across the street from the charter high school in the southern end of The Villages in Middleton, this sports bar is bringing its A-game to the local dining scene.
The Vibe
Walking into Victory Sports Grill feels like joining the ultimate game-day party. Mathew and Macie are there to greet you with their winning smiles. The decor is sporty yet modern, with large flat-screen TVs lining the walls, ensuring you won’t miss a second of the action. The energy here is infectious, and whether you’re a die-hard sports fan or just looking for a lively place to unwind, the atmosphere delivers.
And let’s not forget about the outdoor bar and patio! This spacious area is perfect for enjoying a meal or drink while soaking up some fresh air. With comfortable seating and a relaxed vibe, the patio is an ideal spot for casual gatherings or simply unwinding after a long day. I was hoping to grab a seat outside, but the only spot left was inside…which was perfect! Behind the bar, Luis and Kortnie were serving up beverages, crafting everything from refreshing cocktails to ice-cold beers that hit the spot.
The Food
Victory Sports Grill has all the classics you’d expect from a sports bar menu—but with a twist. From loaded tots with all the fixings, to tacos and quesadillas to juicy burgers cooked to perfection and “Championship Entrées” the food is a slam dunk in its own right. And if you’re in the mood for something lighter, the fresh salads and shareable appetizers won’t disappoint. Make sure you save room for their “Stadium Sweets”! I will be back with friends for the Smores Skillet for Two! With so many options, my new friend, Luis gave me his recommendations and I opted for the BBQ Pork Potato Skins—SCORE!
I love sitting at the bar by myself. You meet the best people and get to have great conversations. It was fun chatting with some Villager Eats followers, I just wish I remembered to get their names. These lovely ladies enjoyed the Fish Tacos and Fried Haddock Sandwich –both looked crispy and light.
The Drinks
What’s a sports bar without a stellar cocktail playbook? Victory Sports Grill offers a range of bottled beers and drafts, classic cocktails, and non-alcoholic options. I loved the Strawberry Bliss Rita. Their everyday specials are worth stopping in for—great deals on drinks that pair perfectly with the game. How about “Overtime” $6 Martinis and $12 Bud Light or Yuengling Pitcher?
Worth the Drive
While Victory Sports Grill is located on the southern end of The Villages, it’s well worth the drive if you’re coming from the northern side. The combination of great food, vibrant atmosphere, and excellent service makes it a standout addition to the community.
Final Thoughts
Victory Sports Grill is more than just a restaurant—it’s a whole vibe. Whether you’re stopping in after a high school game, meeting up with friends for drinks, or treating yourself to a night out, this spot has something for everyone. If you haven’t checked it out yet, make the trip. Victory awaits!
Where Are They?
Victory Sports Grill is located in Middleton across from The Villages High School at 2209 Dr. Randy McDaniel Way. Hours are 11am – 10pm daily. They are also listed on our Restaurants tab and daily specials will be listed as available.
Help Set The Table For Villager Eats
I Want to Hear from You! Help Set the Table for Villager Eats
Are you passionate about discovering amazing local dining spots? So am I! At Villager Eats, my mission is to bring you the best of our area’s food scene, from hidden gems to well-loved favorites. But this time, I want to turn the table and hear directly from you, my fellow food enthusiasts.
What’s on Your Restaurant Wish List?
Whether you’ve stumbled upon a cozy café, a new spot in town or nearby, or a restaurant with unforgettable ambiance, I want to know! Your input helps me feature the places you’re most curious about and shine a spotlight on what makes our community’s food culture special. If you are a restaurant owner or manager and would like to be featured on the site, let’s make a reservation soon.
What Else Would You Like to See on Villager Eats?
I know you love the daily specials, but I’m curious about what else you’d like me to bring to the table. Are you interested in behind-the-scenes interviews with chefs or owners? Do you want quick and easy recipes to cook at home when you’re not dining out? Perhaps a deeper dive into local food trends or recipes inspired by the restaurants I feature? Share your ideas—I’m all ears!
How You Can Help
Here are a few ways to let me know which restaurants you’d love to see on Villager Eats. And don’t forget what additional content would make your experience even better:
- Comment Below: Share the name of the restaurant and any content ideas you’d love to see.
- Send Me a Message: Reach out through the contact form on https://villagereats.com/contact/ or send me a DM on the Facebook page, Villager Eats or on Instagram @villager_eats.
- Tag Me on Social Media: Post a picture or a story about your favorite spot and tag @VillagerEats (on FB) or @villager_eats (on Instagram). Don’t forget to use the hashtag #VillagerEatsFeature!
Why Your Input Matters
I have some great ideas of what I’d like to serve up but your recommendations not only guide my next food adventures but also support local businesses by bringing them more attention and love. Together, we can create a richer, tastier map of our community’s dining options. Plus, your content ideas will help me make Villager Eats an even more valuable resource for food lovers like you.
So, what do you say? Let’s collaborate to uncover the best eats around and craft even better content for our foodie community. Drop me your suggestions today, and who knows—your favorite restaurant or idea might just be the next feature on Villager Eats!
Happy dining,
Debi – Villager Eats
Christmas 2024
The holiday season is here, and while many of us enjoy the tradition of a home-cooked Christmas feast, sometimes it’s nice to let someone else take care of the cooking and cleanup. Or sometimes that turkey or ham might be a little on the overcooked side. If you’re in The Villages®, and looking for a great place to dine out on Christmas Day, there are a few local restaurants that will be open to spread holiday cheer and serve up delicious meals.
Here are the spots I found that will be open Christmas Day 2024:
Spanish Springs™ Town Square and 42 to 441 Area
Bamboo Bistro
Denny’s
Perkins Restaurant & Bakery
Sakura Japanese Restaurant
Lake Sumter Landing Market Square™ and 466 to 466A Area
Calypso Restaurant & Bar (at The Waterfront Inn)
Chengs Chinese & Sushi Restaurant
IHOP
Sakura
Toojay’s Gourmet Deli
VKI Japanese Steakhouse
Brownwood Paddock Square™ and 466A to 44 Area
Sawgrass/South of 44
Country Club Restaurants
None
Nearby Community Favorites
*lists are not all-inclusive and only offers suggestions.
Tips for Dining Out on Christmas Day:
- Make Reservations Now: Christmas Day is a popular time for dining out, so be sure to call ahead and secure your spot.
- Check Menus: Many restaurants offer special holiday menus, so check in advance to see what’s being served.
- Arrive on Time: Holiday dining can be busy, so plan to arrive a little early to ensure a smooth experience.
Whether you’re dining out or enjoying the holidays at home with friends and family, Villager Eats wishes you all the best that Christmas 2024 has to offer! Make sure to check out our Restaurant list for locations and contact info. MERRY CHRISTMAS!
Thanksgiving 2024
Thanksgiving 2024 is next week! Are you ready? Or are you still looking for a place for dinner? Some spots in The Villages® are already full, but here are a few that have seats available.
Reservations Available:
BELLA VITA ITALIAN STEAK HOUSE: (352) 775-2353 – Thanksgiving menu BELLE GLADE COUNTRY CLUB: (352) 205-7455 – https://www.bellegladerestaurant.com/holiday RESERVATIONS NOW FULL
BLUEFIN BAR & GRILL: (352) 571-5344 menu: https://www.bluefingrillbar.com/holidayBONIFAY COUNTRY CLUB: (352) 205-7455 menu: Thanksgiving Buffet: https://www.bonifaycountryclub.com/holiday RESERVATIONS NOW FULL
COASTAL DEL MAR: (352) 268-3701 Thanksgiving menu EVANS PRAIRIE COUNTRY CLUB: (352) 750-2225 – https://www.evansprairierestaurant.com/holiday RESERVATIONS NOW FULL
FRANCESCO’S RISTORANTE STONE FIRE PIZZA: (352) 693-2008. Thanksgiving Menu 2024
GLENVIEW COUNTRY CLUB: (352) 753-0077 menu: https://www.glenviewcountryclub.com/thanksgiving
HARVEST RESTAURANT and BAR: (352) 571-5514 – Thanksgiving Dinner Specials
HAVANA COUNTRY CLUB: (352) 430-3200 menu: https://www.havanacc.com/thanksgiving-menu
LEGACY RESTAURANT at NANCY LOPEZ: (352) 753-1475 menu: https://www.legacyrestaurant.com/thanksgiving-menu
MALLORY HILL COUNTRY CLUB: (352) 430-2359 – https://www.malloryhillcountryclub.com/thanksgiving ORANGE BLOSSOM HILLS COUNTRY CLUB: (352) 751-4501 – https://www.orangeblossomhillscountryclub.com/holiday RESERVATIONS NOW FULL
PALMER LEGENDS COUNTRY CLUB: (352) 750-4499 – Thanksgiving Specials
PASTA FAIRE: (352) 347-3100 – Thanksgiving menu
PRIMA ITALIAN STEAKHOUSE: (352) 391-9939 menu: https://www.primaitaliansteakhouse.com/thanksgiving-menu
REDSAUCE: (352) 750-2930 menu: https://www.redsaucethevillages.com/thanksgiving
THE BACK PORCH MULBERRY: (352) 268-2334. Open 11am-7pm. Thanks giving special: Turkey or Ham Dinner $25 – served with Mashed Potatoes, Green Bean Almondine, Cornbread Stuffing, Cranberry Sauce, and a slice of Pumpkin Pie.
CODY’S ORIGINAL ROADHOUSE is offering their Thanksgiving Feast To Go! Serves four and is only $65. Includes: 1lb of Roast Tom Turkey; 1lb of Brown Sugar Cured Ham; Homemade Garlic Mashed Potatoes; Cody’s Stuffing; Turkey Gravy; Mixed Vegetables; Cranberry Sauce; Pineapple Sauce; Cody’s Famous Roadhouse Salad & Fresh Baked Sweet Yeast Rolls w/Cinnamon Butter. Add 1lb of Ham for $15; add 1lb of Turkey for $18. Orders must be placed by 4pm on Wednesday, November 27th and picked up between 10am & 2pm on Thanksgiving Day.
ROBERTO’S RISTORANTE & PIZZERIA is offering their Thanksgiving Dinner Special from Monday, 11/25 – Wednesday, 11/27. They will be closed on Thanksgiving Day. Check out their specials here.
Closed
Several restaurants will be CLOSED on Thanksgiving allowing their staff to enjoy the holiday with family & friends. Below is a list of a few of those places observing the holiday:
AMERIKANOS GRILLE
AY! JALISCO
BOOSTERS BAR & GRILL
CANE GARDEN COUNTRY CLUB
EATON’S BEACH FLORISIANA CUISINE
EDNA’S ON THE GREEN
FENNEY GRILL
GATORS DOCKSIDE –BROWNWOOD
LIGHTHOUSE POINT BAR & GRILLE
McCALL’S TAVERN
McGRADY’S PUB
METRO DINER
NYPD PIZZERIA
OLIVE GARDEN
R.J. GATORS
REVEILLE CAFE
ROBERTO’S RISTORANTE & PIZZERIA
TIERRA DEL SOL BAR & GRILL
WILLIE JEWELL’S OLD SCHOOL BAR-B-Q
*lists are not all-inclusive and only offers suggestions.
Wherever you are going for Thanksgiving 2024, I wish you many blessings. Remember to take a few moments to be grateful for all that you have and enjoy the time with your loved ones. I truly appreciate each and every one of you for being part of the Villager Eats family. THANK YOU!
Veterans Day 2024
Veterans Day 2024 is Monday, 11/11 and there are plenty of local restaurants offering FREE and discounted meals to our vets to show appreciation for their service. At Villager Eats, we extend our deepest gratitude to all Veterans for their service, courage, and dedication. As a small token of appreciation, we’re thrilled to announce that several local restaurants are offering exclusive dinner specials just for Veterans. These offers are a way to say “thank you” and honor the sacrifices made by you and your families. Please check out our list of participating restaurants to find out where you can enjoy a delicious meal and connect with our community in celebration of your service. We hope these meals serve as a reminder that your commitment to our country is valued and never forgotten.
*updated 11/10/24
APPLEBEES – Veterans and active-duty military, reserves and National Guard get a free meal Monday at Applebee’s from an exclusive Veterans Day Menu, which includes a 6-ounce Top Sirloin, Classic Bacon Cheeseburger and Double Crunch Shrimp. And veterans who dine-in also get a $5 bounce back card to redeem for dine-in, to go or delivery within a three-week redemption window.
BEEF O’ BRADY’S – Free BYOB (Build Your Own Burger) and Fries for veterans on Monday (offer good at participating locations).
BOB EVANS – Offering a special menu of seven homestyle favorites available to veterans and active duty military FREE*
BONEFISH GRILL – Active-duty service members and veterans get a complimentary order of Bang Bang Shrimp with a soft beverage on November 11, 2024 with valid ID.
CHICKEN SALAD CHICK – Service members in uniform and/or those who present a valid military ID at the register on Monday will get a free Chick Meal + drink (meal includes either a scoop or a sandwich, plus one fresh side, and a regular fountain drink).
CHILI’S – All veterans and active military personnel get a free entrée on Monday at Chili’s. The complimentary menu includes entrées such as an Oldtimer with Cheese and Fries, Chicken Bacon Ranch Quesadillas, 3-Count Chicken Crispers and Chili or Soup with a Side Salad (beverages and gratuity not included).
CITY FIRE (both locations) – Free Hot Dog or Burger w/chips
CODY’S ORIGINAL ROADHOUSE – All Vets eat FREE on Veterans Day. Choose one of these entree’s: Cody’s Roadside Chopped Steak; Grilled Chicken Breast; Fresh New England Haddock; BBQ Pulled Pork Platter (served w/Cody’s Original Bottomless Salad, Sweet Yeast Rolls & A Fresh Side Choice). Also receive 15% Off Year Round (discount on food only – alcohol excluded from this offer; discount only valid for veterans – not the whole party)
CRACKER BARREL – Available all-day on Monday for veterans and active-duty service members to get a complimentary Sunrise Pancake Special at all locations, available for dine-in guests nationwide.
CRAVE HOT DOGS & BBQ – 10% Off for All Veterans today
DICKEY’S BBQ – Free Pulled Pork Sandwich for all active duty or retired military. In-store & online (use code VETFREE).
DUNKIN’ DONUTS – All active and retired military get a free donut on Veterans Day in Dunkin’ stores (limit one per guest while supplies last; no ID required). Offer not good for orders placed using On-the-Go Mobile Ordering through the Dunkin’ Mobile App.
EATON’S BEACH – Please come join us Monday, November 11, 2024 at 9am for the presentation of our Flag, recital of the Pledge of Allegiance, the singing of our National Anthem followed by a complimentary breakfast for all veterans, military and first responders past and present, their friends and families. We would love for this to be our biggest year yet! • Event is in the Sandbar area. Mike Smithson will be playing some favorite Americana tunes. Emma Forgette will treat us to the National Anthem and a few more tunes if we are lucky. Mike Storck will be our honored Guest. We will be collecting any donations given for The Wounded Warrior Project.
FMK HOSPITALITY – ALL LOCATIONS – Veterans receive 10% Off Entire Purchase All Day. Available at Belle Glade Country Club, Bonifay Country Club, Bluefin Grill & Bar, Bella Vita Italian Steakhouse, Chop House, Coastal del Mar, Evans Prairie Country Club, Harvest Restaurant & Bar, Scooples Ice Cream Parlor & Restaurant, Tap House Social. (valid only Monday, 11/11, please tell server prior to ordering you are a veteran)
GOLDEN CORRAL – Veterans, active and retired U.S. military get a free “thank you” buffet and beverage Monday from 4 p.m. until closing time (no purchase or military ID required). Representatives from Disabled American Veterans will be on site accepting donations, too.
HAVANA COUNTRY CLUB – Every veteran who dines with us will receive a FREE entrée voucher for their next visit.
HUEY MAGOO’S – Veterans and active-duty military members w/proper ID get a free meal for one when you purchase a meal for one and two beverages
IHOP — 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., IHOP will offer a free Red, White, and Blueberry Pancake Combo for veterans and active-duty military at participating locations, dine-in only.
LEGACY RESTAURANT AT NANCY LOPEZ – Every veteran who dines with us will receive a FREE entrée voucher for their next visit.
LIGHTHOUSE POINT BAR & GRILL AT LAKE SUMTER – Honoring our Veterans with 25% Off for all retired & active duty military.
METRO DINER – Active and retired military with valid military ID get 50% off their meal on Monday – and 10% off their meal year-round.
MILLER’S ALE HOUSE – 50% off one entree valid Monday, November 11, 2024. Guest must show valid Military ID, VA Card or DD214. Not valid on lunch deals, deal of the day, daily deals, alcohol, gift cards, taxes or gratuity. The discount cannot be combined with any other offer, discount or special and is only valid on their meal, not the entire check. Dine-in only.
NYPD PIZZA – 50% Off for Veterans
OLIVE GARDEN – Olive Garden restaurants will offer veterans and current members of the military who dine in a free entrée from a special menu. All entrees include freshly baked garlic breadsticks, and your choice of homemade soup or our famous house salad.
PANERA BREAD – Free bagel and coffee
PERKINS RESTAURANT & BAKERY – Veterans and active military personnel get a free Great American Trio Meal on Monday with a valid military ID at participating locations (dine in only).
PRIMA ITALIAN STEAKHOUSE – Every veteran who dines with us will receive a FREE entrée voucher for their next visit.
ROBERTO’S RISTORANTE & PIZZERIA – 10% off entire bill and free dessert.
RUBY TUESDAY – Active-duty military and veterans get a free Garden Bar entrée, American Smashed Burger, or Ruby’s Cheeseburger with Military ID.
STARBUCKS – Veterans, service members and military spouses get a free tall 12-ounce brewed coffee (hot or iced).
TEXAS ROADHOUSE – The restaurant offers active-duty military, veteran, and retired military members a choice between dining in or receiving a meal voucher from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Veterans will receive a meal voucher to use for dine-in or carry-out at a later time. Vouchers are valid until May 30, 2025. A form of military ID is required.
TOOJAY’S – Veterans and active-duty military get 25% off on November 11. Must present valid military ID.
WORLD OF BEER at BROWNWOOD – Free Crispy Chicken Sliders w/proof of service.
*Please note this list is not all-inclusive and may be subject to change at restaurant’s discretion. Check daily for updates.
Villager Eats is Back!
Villager Eats is BACK! I’ve missed you all! After taking a five-month break and what I thought would be the grand finale, I’m excited to announce that Villager Eats is officially coming back! If you’ve been wondering where I disappeared to, I took some much-needed time off to recharge, refocus, and rethink how I want to bring you the best restaurant reviews in our community.
Shutting down Villager Eats wasn’t an easy decision, but it gave me the clarity I needed to see what was working, what wasn’t, and how I could improve. Now, I’m back with a fresh perspective, new ideas, and even more passion for showcasing the amazing food and dining specials our local spots have to offer.
What’s next?
What can you expect this time around? I’ll still be highlighting the hidden gems and go-to favorites you love, but I’m also introducing new features, more behind-the-scenes looks at the food scene, and exciting collaborations with local chefs and foodies. My goal is to make Villager Eats even more of a community hub where we can share our love for food, discover new places, and support the restaurants that make our town special. We still have your DAILY SPECIALS and Restaurant Directory so check them out when you’re looking for your favorites!
I still have my full-time job and working out some kinks…so please be kind and patient until everything is back up to speed. There’s been a lot happening around town, so it might take a minute. I may be coming to you for help at times and hoping to find a partner in crime for one of the courses on the menu.
Thank you all for your support and patience during the break. I can’t wait to dive back into exploring the best deals around and sharing my experiences with you. So, get ready for new posts, new flavors, and a whole lot of deliciousness.
Stay tuned for what’s coming next!
Cheers!
Last Call
This post has taken me several months to write and it’s still difficult today. After careful consideration, I have decided this will be the last call for Villager Eats. Every time I sit down to write this message, something holds me back thinking the situation will change. But it hasn’t. And I owe it to you, my faithful readers, to let you in on what’s been happening.
If you’ve been around from the beginning, you know that Mary started this site to help fellow Villagers find the daily specials around our community. In September of 2021, she decided to pass the plate and find her seat at the “fully-retired table”. Hence, I found my seat at the “chef’s table” with a front row view of exciting re-branding, new ideas and vision that became my passion project. It has been so exciting to meet so many of you and serve y’all by providing the daily dining and happy hour specials all in one place.
Fairly soon after I took over, the advertisers disappeared, and I tried to find new ways to generate revenue to support the site and keep it running. The VIP Dining Card was a hit but barely broke even on the cost to produce and mail. I wanted to give you a quality product and the postage rate increased. Amazon affiliate links didn’t work. And another vision (that I will keep to myself for now) didn’t pan out either. And yet, the number of followers continue to increase — that count has almost tripled. But it’s not free to run a website. There are many expenses that hide in the background. And now what has been an LLC for the past year and a half, has become an expensive hobby.
Another major factor comes into play as well. I had to go back to work full-time last year and my work schedule interferes with the time of day that the restaurants release their daily specials, thus the inability to provide accurate information in a timely fashion. Then I found myself having to move, and unfortunately, my new place is just outside of the Daily Sun service area; and going to WaWa to purchase a newspaper (a main resource of information) every morning at 6am took a big toll. I had been keeping up the best I could until the beginning of February this year when, yet another major life event occurred and that was the beginning of the end. We will keep that dish off the table as it’s very personal.
Gratitude
Over the last two+ years, together we’ve celebrated the rise of new restaurants and bid farewell to others. To all the restaurateurs, managers, food bloggers and fellow dining enthusiasts who have been a part of this incredible journey, I extend my deepest gratitude. Your dedication and support have inspired me beyond words, and I am forever grateful for the friendships forged and the culinary adventures shared.
As much as I cherish the memories we’ve created together, I cannot ignore the shifting tides. Running the website has been a labor of love, but it’s also been a significant investment of time, energy, and resources. As much as I’ve poured my heart and soul into this site, I’ve come to realize that it’s time to redirect my focus and energy towards new endeavors. Though the site may be closing, the appetite for culinary exploration burns brighter than ever, and I have no doubt that our paths will cross again in the journey that lies ahead. So stay tuned!
This will be my last blog post for Villager Eats, but not my last blog. I have another adventure that I’m working on which will allow me to dance around my full-time schedule and have a more lucrative opportunity. If you would like to know more (and here’s a hint), please comment below “Dining with Debi” and I will add you to the mailing list for future updates.
However, with all that said, I would be open to passing the Villager Eats plate to another passionate foodie and lover of restaurants in our community. If that interests you, please send an email to info@villagereats.com and we can chat. In the meantime, check out the Restaurants tab for a listing of your favorite spots. Unless a miracle finds it way to cross my path, April 30, 2024 will be the last day online for Villager Eats. It breaks my heart having to say that. I tried, hard, but it’s time to move on.
Y’all have been amazing, and I cannot express my appreciation and gratitude enough for your loyalty and support. Until we meet again…may your kitchens always be filled with laughter, your tables with friends and family and your meals with love. CHEERS!
P.S. Please refrain from any negative comments – they will be deleted. Negativity and bad reviews have never been on the menu here. This has been one of the hardest decisions and I still wish there was a way I could continue on here. XOXO