Blue Gator Tiki Bar & Grill

Ocala Downtown Market stands as the heart of <a href="/location/ocala" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-700 underline">Ocala's</a> vibrant agricultural community, bringing together farmers, artisans, craftspeople, and food entrepreneurs every Saturday from 9 AM to 2 PM in a beautiful open-air Market Pavilion that operates rain or shine throughout the year. Located just blocks from the historic <a href="/location/downtown-ocala" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-700 underline">Ocala Downtown Square</a> at the corner of SE 3rd Street and SE 3rd Avenue, this bustling marketplace serves as both a premier shopping destination and a vibrant community gathering space where residents and visitors connect, share stories, and celebrate local agriculture and craftsmanship. Comprehensive vendor diversity showcases the agricultural bounty and creative talent of <a href="/location/marion-county" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-700 underline">Marion County</a> and surrounding Central Florida regions, featuring over 80 vendors who offer an impressive array of farm-fresh produce, locally-sourced meats, artisanal breads, fresh seafood, farmhouse cheeses, handcrafted pasta, local honey, and freshly baked goods that represent the best of regional agriculture and culinary traditions. Multiple produce vendors ensure competitive pricing and diverse selection, while specialized vendors provide unique items like organic vegetables, heirloom tomatoes, seasonal fruits, and hard-to-find specialty crops that reflect Central Florida's year-round growing season. Artisan marketplace excellence extends far beyond agriculture to encompass an impressive selection of handmade crafts, custom jewelry, unique clothing, live plants, natural soaps, woodworking, pottery, and artistic creations that showcase the remarkable talent of local craftspeople and artists. These artisan vendors provide one-of-a-kind items perfect for gifts, home decoration, and personal enjoyment while supporting the creative economy that makes Ocala such a culturally rich community. Modern facility amenities ensure visitor comfort and convenience through permanent roof coverage, large overhead ceiling fans that provide natural cooling, handicapped-accessible restrooms, convenient water fountains, nearby ATM access, and ample parking that makes the market easily accessible for families, seniors, and visitors with varying mobility needs. The thoughtfully designed Market Pavilion provides protection from Florida's unpredictable weather while maintaining the open-air atmosphere that makes farmers market shopping such an enjoyable experience. Culinary destination appeal features diverse food trucks and semi-permanent food vendors that converge throughout the week and especially on Saturdays to showcase innovative menu items, ethnic cuisines, comfort foods, and specialty beverages that transform the market into a dynamic outdoor dining experience. A permanent coffee stand at the corner provides premium beverages, while rotating food trucks ensure variety and excitement for regular visitors seeking new culinary adventures. Family-friendly environment enhances the market experience through proximity to a children's playground and the Citizens Circle Splash Pad, creating an ideal weekend destination where parents can shop for fresh groceries and artisan goods while children enjoy recreational activities in a safe, supervised environment. This family-centered approach makes the Ocala Downtown Market a perfect Saturday morning tradition for households throughout Marion County. Community economic impact extends beyond individual transactions to support local agriculture, sustainable food systems, and the regional economy through direct farmer-to-consumer sales that eliminate middleman costs while ensuring maximum freshness and quality. Every dollar spent at the market contributes to local economic development, supports independent farmers and artisans, and strengthens the community bonds that make Ocala such a special place to live and visit. Historic growth and development since the market's relocation to its current location in 2016 demonstrates the increasing popularity and success of this community institution, with vendor participation expanding beyond the original pavilion to include spots along the O-Trak, Ocala's innovative multi-modal pedestrian and bike path that connects downtown destinations. This growth reflects both the market's quality and the community's commitment to supporting local agriculture and small business development. Ocala Downtown Market represents the perfect fusion of agricultural excellence, artisan creativity, community spirit, and family-friendly entertainment, where fresh local produce, handcrafted goods, culinary innovation, and neighborhood connections combine to create an authentic farmers market experience that celebrates the best of Central Florida's agricultural heritage while building lasting relationships within the Horse Capital of the World's vibrant downtown community.

Ivy on the Square stands as downtown <a href="/location/ocala" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-700 underline">Ocala's</a> premier culinary destination and a cornerstone of Southern hospitality, presenting the finest in homemade Southern cooking through meticulously crafted dishes that embody the essence of true Southern culinary tradition. Located at 53 S Magnolia Avenue in the heart of the historic downtown square, this beloved restaurant offers guests a remarkable culinary journey back in time to the heart of the South, where savory dishes prepared with care and tradition using recipes passed down through generations create an authentic dining experience that celebrates the rich heritage of Southern cuisine while providing exceptional service in an inviting atmosphere perfect for memorable dining occasions. Authentic Southern cuisine excellence showcases the restaurant's dedication to presenting traditional Southern cooking at its finest, featuring an impressive menu of comfort food classics including their signature crispy chicken, savory beef and fish specialty dishes, bacon-wrapped dates that tantalize the palate, creole shrimp and grits that capture the essence of coastal Southern cooking, and renowned crab cakes that have earned recognition as among the finest available, even compared to those from the legendary Chesapeake Bay region. Each dish reflects the restaurant's commitment to using time-honored recipes and cooking techniques that honor the culinary traditions of the American South. Hidden speakeasy experience transports guests to the roaring twenties through The Thirsty Cobbler, a secret speakeasy tucked away behind the main restaurant that captures the spirit of the Prohibition era with intimate ambiance, vintage charm, and an atmosphere that truly embodies the clandestine excitement of 1920s nightlife. Accessed through a side door requiring a whispered password posted on the restaurant's Facebook page, this exclusive experience opens at 8:30 PM for those seeking craft cocktails, specialty martinis, traditional Prohibition-era libations, and an authentic speakeasy atmosphere complete with period music and decor that creates an unforgettable evening of entertainment. Craft beverage program encompasses both the main restaurant's impressive selection of cocktails, mocktails, and specialty drinks, plus The Thirsty Cobbler's extensive speakeasy menu featuring original prohibition-themed cocktails that showcase mixology artistry through specialty fusion drinks and traditional recipes from the 1920s era. This comprehensive beverage program ensures that every guest finds the perfect accompaniment to their dining experience, whether seeking a casual dinner drink or an authentic speakeasy cocktail adventure. Prime downtown location at the corner of Fort King Street provides convenient access to historic downtown <a href="/location/ocala" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-700 underline">Ocala</a> attractions while offering outdoor dining options that allow guests to enjoy their meals al fresco just outside the front door, creating perfect opportunities for people-watching and enjoying the vibrant downtown atmosphere. This strategic location makes Ivy on the Square an ideal destination for both locals seeking exceptional dining and visitors exploring the cultural heart of Marion County. Flexible dining schedule accommodates diverse guest preferences through Tuesday-Wednesday hours from 11 AM to 9 PM and extended Thursday-Saturday service from 11 AM to 10 PM, ensuring that both lunch and dinner guests can enjoy the restaurant's offerings while maintaining the intimate, unhurried atmosphere that characterizes exceptional Southern dining. The restaurant is closed Sunday and Monday, allowing staff to maintain the high standards of preparation and service that distinguish the establishment. Special occasion expertise extends beyond daily dining service to encompass catering capabilities and special event hosting that brings Ivy on the Square's exceptional Southern cuisine and hospitality to private celebrations, corporate events, and community gatherings throughout <a href="/location/marion-county" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-700 underline">Marion County</a>. This catering excellence ensures that the restaurant's signature dishes and professional service enhance any special occasion with authentic Southern charm and culinary sophistication. Award-winning recognition includes rankings among Florida Trend's "500 Best Restaurants in Florida" and consistent praise from dining critics and guests who appreciate the restaurant's commitment to authenticity, quality, and exceptional service. These accolades reflect the establishment's success in preserving and presenting genuine Southern culinary traditions while adapting to contemporary dining expectations and maintaining the highest standards of food quality and guest experience. Community engagement demonstrates Ivy on the Square's commitment to downtown Ocala's cultural and economic vitality through active participation in local events, support for community organizations, and contributions to the vibrant restaurant scene that makes historic downtown a destination for residents and visitors seeking authentic Florida dining experiences that celebrate both culinary excellence and regional heritage. Ivy on the Square represents the perfect fusion of authentic Southern cuisine, hidden speakeasy excitement, downtown convenience, and genuine hospitality, where traditional recipes, craft beverages, intimate atmosphere, and exceptional service combine to create an extraordinary dining destination that honors Southern culinary heritage while providing contemporary guests with memorable experiences in the heart of historic downtown Ocala.

Big Hammock Brewery & Bites stands as <a href="/location/downtown-ocala" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-700 underline">downtown Ocala's</a> premier destination for innovative Asian fusion cuisine paired with exceptional craft beer, representing a unique culinary concept that brings East Asian flavors to the heart of Central Florida's historic downtown district. Located at 103 SE 1st Avenue in a charming side street setting, this locally-owned brewpub celebrates both the natural beauty of <a href="/location/ocala" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-700 underline">Ocala</a> and Silver Springs heritage while delivering an extraordinary dining experience that has earned recognition as one of the region's most innovative restaurants since opening in 2019. Authentic Asian fusion excellence showcases a carefully crafted menu that elevates traditional East Asian dishes through creative interpretation and high-quality ingredients, featuring signature ramen bowls with hearty broths and wheat noodles coupled with expertly prepared meat and vegetables that provide comfort and sophistication in every spoonful. The restaurant's acclaimed bao buns, consistently praised by customers as "absolutely phenomenal," feature perfectly steamed pillowy bread filled with succulent pork belly and complementary flavors that create unforgettable taste experiences. Innovative East Asian specialties include traditional Chinese dishes like expertly prepared pot stickers and the unique cong you bing, a creative scallion pancake filled with tender pulled pork that resembles a quesadilla but delivers distinctly Asian flavors. These innovative interpretations demonstrate the kitchen's commitment to honoring traditional cooking techniques while adapting recipes for contemporary palates and local ingredient availability. Craft beer excellence features 12 carefully curated taps that showcase both Big Hammock's own freshly brewed craft beers and rotating guest selections from distinguished breweries throughout Florida and beyond. The brewery's signature creations, including the popular Meloncholy Watermelon Sour, demonstrate innovative brewing techniques that complement the restaurant's Asian fusion menu while providing unique flavor profiles that appeal to both beer enthusiasts and casual drinkers seeking memorable experiences. Ownership dedication comes from local entrepreneurs Tim and Janice Thomas along with Jason and Emily Delaney, who combine their passion for craft brewing with appreciation for Asian cuisine to create a restaurant concept that serves the Ocala community while attracting visitors from throughout <a href="/location/marion-county" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-700 underline">Marion County</a> and beyond. Their commitment to quality and innovation has established Big Hammock Brewery & Bites as a cornerstone of downtown Ocala's evolving culinary landscape. Historic downtown setting reflects the restaurant's name, which honors the natural hammocks and pristine environments that have defined Ocala and Silver Springs for over a century, while the interior features photographs celebrating local history and the Timucuan heritage of the area. This connection to local culture creates an authentic atmosphere that enhances the dining experience while educating visitors about Central Florida's rich natural and cultural heritage. Diverse menu offerings extend beyond Asian specialties to include American pub favorites like hot pretzels with beer cheese and expertly crafted pressed sandwiches that provide familiar comfort food options alongside more adventurous Asian fusion selections. This menu diversity ensures that every diner finds appealing options while encouraging culinary exploration and repeat visits from customers seeking both familiar and exotic flavors. Dog-friendly outdoor seating creates a welcoming environment for pet owners who want to enjoy craft beer and innovative cuisine alongside their four-legged companions, while the charming downtown location provides easy pedestrian access and convenient parking for customers exploring Ocala's historic district shops, galleries, and entertainment venues. Community recognition includes outstanding customer reviews with 4.6 out of 5 stars on TripAdvisor and ranking among Ocala's top restaurants, while the 4.8-star overall rating reflects consistent excellence in food quality, service, and atmosphere. These accolades demonstrate the restaurant's success in creating memorable dining experiences that exceed customer expectations while contributing to downtown Ocala's reputation as a culinary destination. Seasonal beer rotations and menu adaptations ensure that regular customers discover new flavors and experiences throughout the year, while special events and community engagement activities strengthen Big Hammock's role as more than just a restaurant, serving as a gathering place where food, craft beer, and community spirit combine to create lasting memories. Big Hammock Brewery & Bites represents the perfect fusion of innovative Asian cuisine, craft beer excellence, and community hospitality, where authentic flavors, creative interpretations, expertly brewed beers, and genuine local character combine to create downtown Ocala's most distinctive dining destination that honors both culinary tradition and contemporary innovation in the heart of Central Florida's historic downtown district.

Infinite Ale Works stands as <a href="/location/ocala" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-700 underline">Ocala's</a> pioneering craft brewery and award-winning production facility, proudly established in 2014 as the city's first craft brewery with the inspiring motto "Traditionally Inspired, Infinitely Creative" that perfectly captures their innovative approach to Belgian-inspired brewing excellence. Founded by passionate craft beer enthusiasts Tom and Kristin McDonald alongside Belgian beer expert Jim Ritchhart, this trailblazing brewery has evolved from a visionary dream into <a href="/location/marion-county" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-700 underline">Marion County's</a> most celebrated brewing operation, earning recognition as Florida's Best Large-Scale Brewery in 2018 while maintaining deep community roots in downtown Ocala's vibrant cultural district. Belgian brewing excellence defines Infinite Ale Works' distinctive approach to craft beer production, specializing in traditional Belgian-style brewing techniques while fearlessly exploring innovative flavor profiles across multiple beer styles that demonstrate their commitment to both honoring brewing heritage and pushing creative boundaries. Their flagship Witfinite, a two-time Best Florida Beer Medal winner, exemplifies this philosophy through authentic Belgian white beer brewing that combines traditional wheat and Belgium barley malt with coriander and bitter orange peel, creating the perfect balance of time-tested technique and exceptional flavor that earned a silver medal from the prestigious Best Florida Beer Competition. Founder heritage and expertise bring authentic Belgian brewing knowledge through co-founder Jim Ritchhart's extensive experience as a homebrewer and Belgian beer enthusiast who has visited Belgium over a dozen times to study traditional brewing methods and perfect authentic Belgian beer styles. This deep cultural connection, combined with Tom McDonald's Florida beer community leadership through his previous ownership of Pi on Broadway, creates a unique foundation of local knowledge and international expertise that elevates every beer produced at Infinite Ale Works. Production brewery excellence showcases sophisticated brewing operations that distribute throughout Florida while maintaining the intimate tasting room experience that connects beer enthusiasts directly with the brewing process and passionate team behind every pint. The brewery typically maintains 18-20 of their own beers on tap, with special occasions like their anniversary featuring all 32 taps dedicated exclusively to Infinite Ale Works creations, demonstrating both their prolific brewing capabilities and diverse beer portfolio. Expansive beer portfolio extends far beyond Belgian specialties to include diverse styles that showcase the brewing team's versatility and creativity while maintaining the exceptional quality standards that earned statewide recognition. This comprehensive approach ensures that every palate finds satisfaction, from traditional Belgian beer enthusiasts seeking authentic interpretations through adventurous craft beer drinkers exploring innovative flavor combinations and seasonal specialties. Downtown tasting room experience provides beer enthusiasts with direct access to freshly brewed craft beers in a welcoming atmosphere that celebrates both brewing craftsmanship and community spirit, while the location at 304 S Magnolia Avenue positions the brewery within walking distance of <a href="/location/downtown-ocala" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-700 underline">downtown Ocala's</a> restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues that complement the complete craft beer experience. Upcoming Midtown Station expansion represents an exciting evolution for Infinite Ale Works, with their new brewing operation scheduled to open February 1, 2025, at the historic former Ocala Fire Rescue Station No. 1 overlooking Tuscawilla Park. This spectacular new facility will feature a full bar, independent food hall tenants offering multiple dining options, and expanded brewing capabilities all under one roof as part of the innovative Midtown Station development that transforms a historic landmark into Ocala's premier craft beer and dining destination. Distribution excellence ensures that Infinite Ale Works reaches craft beer enthusiasts throughout Florida through strategic partnerships with local grocery stores, bottle shops, bars, and restaurants that recognize the quality and consistency that earned the brewery statewide acclaim. This comprehensive distribution network allows both loyal local customers and new admirers across the state to enjoy freshly brewed Infinite Ale Works beers while supporting Florida's thriving craft beer industry. Award-winning recognition includes the prestigious 2018 Best Large-Scale Brewery award from the Florida Brewers Association, demonstrating the brewery's ability to scale production while maintaining the artisanal quality and innovative spirit that defines exceptional craft brewing. These accolades reflect not only brewing excellence but also the dedication to continuous improvement and community engagement that makes Infinite Ale Works a cornerstone of Florida's craft beer landscape. Community leadership role positions Infinite Ale Works as more than just a brewery, serving as a gathering place for craft beer enthusiasts, local residents, and visitors exploring Central Florida's cultural attractions while supporting the broader revitalization of downtown Ocala through quality employment, tourism attraction, and community partnership. Their pioneering status as Ocala's first craft brewery demonstrates entrepreneurial vision while their continued growth reflects the community's appreciation for exceptional local brewing. Seasonal brewing programs and special releases ensure that regular customers discover new flavors and experiences throughout the year, while limited editions and collaboration brews demonstrate the brewing team's creativity and connections within the broader craft beer community. These special offerings enhance customer loyalty while showcasing the endless possibilities inherent in their "Infinitely Creative" philosophy. Infinite Ale Works represents the perfect fusion of Belgian brewing tradition, innovative creativity, and Florida craft beer excellence, where award-winning production capabilities, authentic brewing expertise, community leadership, and genuine passion for craft beer combine to create Marion County's most distinguished brewery that honors the past while continuously pushing the boundaries of what exceptional craft beer can achieve in the heart of Central Florida.

Cantina Tex-Mex & Tequila Bar brings the vibrant spirit of Tulum, Mexico to the heart of <a href="/location/ocala" class="text-[#115D8C] hover:text-[#0B3B59] underline">downtown Ocala</a>. Located at 35 SE 1st Avenue, this richly themed restaurant and bar is a creation of the Brick City Hospitality Group, the team behind some of Ocala's most celebrated dining and nightlife experiences. Since opening, Cantina has earned a reputation as one of downtown Ocala's most lively and distinctive destinations, drawing locals and visitors alike with its creative Tex-Mex cuisine, extensive tequila program, and an atmosphere that transports guests well beyond North Central Florida. The Tulum aesthetic is woven throughout every detail of the Cantina experience. Organic textures, warm lighting, and design elements inspired by the coastal bohemian culture of Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula create an environment that feels both festive and intimate. Whether you're settling in for a weeknight dinner or starting a weekend evening, Cantina offers an atmosphere unlike anything else on Ocala's restaurant scene. The menu delivers on the promise of Tex-Mex preparation with a modern flair. Guests can expect hearty, flavor-forward dishes built around fresh ingredients and bold spices. The tequila bar is a serious affair, with an extensive selection of agave spirits ranging from approachable everyday pours to rare and premium bottles that enthusiasts will appreciate. The margarita program is equally impressive, with house-crafted cocktails that pair beautifully with both the food and the lively atmosphere. One of Cantina's most talked-about features is The Green Room Vault, a hidden cocktail lounge located upstairs above the main restaurant. Operating from 8:00 PM to 12:30 AM Thursday through Saturday, The Green Room Vault offers a more intimate late-night experience for those who want to extend their evening in style. With a carefully curated cocktail menu and a cozy, secretive vibe, the Vault has become a destination in its own right within Ocala's growing nightlife scene. The downtown Ocala location at 35 SE 1st Avenue puts Cantina in the center of the city's most walkable dining and entertainment district. Just steps from the <a href="/businesses/ocala-civic-theatre" class="text-[#115D8C] hover:text-[#0B3B59] underline">Ocala Civic Theatre</a> and a growing collection of independent shops and galleries, this is one of the most desirable restaurant addresses in <a href="/location/marion-county" class="text-[#115D8C] hover:text-[#0B3B59] underline">Marion County</a>. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion, exploring <a href="/dining-ocala" class="text-[#115D8C] hover:text-[#0B3B59] underline">downtown Ocala's restaurant scene</a>, or simply looking for the best margarita in town, Cantina Tex-Mex & Tequila Bar delivers an experience that goes well beyond a typical Mexican restaurant.

The First Friday Art Walk takes place the first Friday of each month, October through May, from 6 to 9 PM in downtown Ocala. This free community event features local galleries, artists, live music, and entertainment throughout the downtown arts district.