If you like good food and live in Ocala, you’re in the right place. This area of Florida is full of delicious restaurant options that offer a diversity of cuisines from burgers to Brazilian to Greek. To guide you in your culinary adventures, we’ve put together a list of some of the best places around Ocala to satisfy your appetite. Enjoy!
Burger 21- This relatively new restaurant on East Silver Springs Blvd. in Ocala offers an innovative take on the classic burger joint. In addition to some very creative burgers, they have a full bar, delicious shakes, and a unique sauce bar with every kind of burger and fry condiment you could ever want, including sweet marshmallow for your sweet potato fries. Om nom yes please! The Tampa-based company has 22 locations in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina and elsewhere, and is excited to offer their take on the “better burger” to Ocala.
Empanada Factory- Here’s proof that simple food is often the best food. Located on Southwest 3rd Street, the Empanada Factory serves up tasty Latin-inspired meat pies at a delicious value. They have all the basics like beef, chicken and pulled pork, but also some interesting fusions such as Italian (lots of pepperoni and mozzarella!) and spinach with artichoke. Don’t forget to grab a dessert empanada, made with real fruit filling and powdered sugar!
Yum Yum Kitchen- It’s all in the name! Yum Yum is a food truck on the corner of Highway 27 and Highway 326 in Ocala, dishing up unique breakfasts, lunches and desserts. They do it all, from breakfast burritos to rice bowls to cupcakes. Their sandwich and wrap menu is particularly enticing. Stop by for breakfast or lunch and support a growing local business!
Pita Burger- Tucked away on South Magnolia Avenue is a unique little burger and wrap place boasting a five-star rating on Yelp and a cool take on classic healthy food. Pita Burger offers monster-sized pita pockets and burgers (hence the name) loaded with fresh veggies and handmade dressings. Choose from their diverse pre-made menu or build your own perfect lunch!
Mojo Grill- This funky local favorite has a brand new location on East Silver Springs Blvd. Mojo Grill is well-known locally for its amazing Mexican-American and Cajun cuisine, along with its jazzy interior decor. This new location features two private seating areas, a large covered patio, and live bands pumping out concert-quality jams on the restaurant’s state-of-the-art sound system. Come for the fish tacos; stay for the 37-guitar chandelier.
Ipanema- This one is for meat-lovers. Ipanema is a Brazillian steakhouse or churrascaria on South Pine Avenue where delicious cuts of meat are brought right to your table. You have your choice of sirloin, filet mignon, pork ribs, or lamb, and the passadores (meat waiters) will keep bringing out as many skewers as you like. Be sure to save room for one of their amazing desserts!
Stella’s Modern Pantry- A perfect downtown lunch spot! Stella’s functions as restaurant, grocery, bakery and specialty kitchen supply shop all in one. Enjoy their exquisitely-crafted paninis and salads, or pick up one of their latest sweet creations from the bakery. They also have an extensive selection of olive oils and vinegars, cooking spices, fine wines and sauces. You can even snag a cute new apron while you’re waiting for your lunch!
Lakis Greek Restaurant– Located in Colours Plaza on Southwest College Road, Lakis has the best of the Mediterranean all in one place. They offer not only Greek classics like souvlaki and pastisio, but also have a wide selection of Italian dishes (including pizza!). Opa!
For more great places to eat in the Ocala area, check out our dining and shopping guide.