...Tastefully appointed in every aspect, Mount Dora's outdoor cafes and upscale restaurants are peppered throughout the village. Within two blocks, the mix finds Eduardo's Station (a Key West-style Mexican cantina) near Cecile's French Corner (a crepe-rich cafe), and the quixotic Frosty Mug, an Icelandic pub.
At the "veddy proper" Windsor Rose English Tea Room (144 4th Avenue, 352/735-2551), the British Empire is honored with items such as steak and mushroom pies and scotch eggs. A pot of hot tea is only $1.95 (on the conversion rate, just three guineas, six shillings, and tuppence).
Tucked away down a brick-paved alley, the Goblin Market (352/735-0058) is a consistent favorite among diners and food critics. Once a warehouse, now there are book-lined dining rooms framed by a tree-shaded courtyard and a menu featuring sophisticated entrees like pignoli crusted chicken milanese and raspberry glazed duck.
A relatively new arrival is Pisces Rising (239 W. 4th Avenue, 352/385-2559) which matches Golblin Market in price and quality, but offers a very popular deck for outdoor dining. Overlooking Lake Dora, this is where locals gather for casual after work conversation and frosty beers, while inside, a crisp, clean, relaxed setting, Louisiana/Caribbean/Key West cuisine, and excellent service ensure a stress-free dining experience.
The Gables (322 N. Alexander, 352/383-8993) offers more traditional fare such as Maryland crabcakes and coconut-crusted grouper.
This is just the beginning. When you arrive, please ask to see our information book featuring menus from these and other creative Mount Dora restaurants.