We have written in the past about the Wild Turkey Tavern in Avon Park. Recently we learned that they are serving breakfast. They’re only available on the weekend, which fit our schedule. So, we decided to drop by and give it a shot.
We sat in the corner booth and had the place pretty much to ourselves.
Our Breakfast
The restaurant only recently added the breakfast option. They start at 7:AM and run until 10:30 AM on Saturdays and until noon on Sundays. When we arrived about 8:30 – it was pretty quiet. It was nice because we had our waitress Heather pretty much to ourselves.
I ordered one of their famous Cracker Skillets. My choice was bacon – although I had several options. My wife selected a Wild Turkey Egg Breakfast. It came with “taters & onions” and we both had biscuits.
Our breakfast at the Wikd Turkey
I will tell you our breakfasts both were generous portions and quick out of the kitchen. Moreover, it was delicious to say the least. We already have done our five best breakfasts so far in Florida. As we compile a new list, this certainly will be on it.
First off, the coffee was great. Secondly, we were delighted that they were able to follow instructions. The bacon was indeed crisp and the biscuits – although they don’t make them on site – were extremely good. My wife said they were just short of being cat-head biscuits.
THIS is crisp bacon.
I got their beer cheese sauce on the side and used it for dipping. This has a really different taste to it. My recommendation is get it on the side and try it for yourself.
Other Options
Although the Wild Turkey is not known for their breakfast menu, that could easily change. We saw several choices that beckon us back for another round. Our meat options for the skillets included steak, country ham, smoked turkey and Uncle John’s Pride sausage.
The same choices came with the egg breakfasts. Additionally, we could have enjoyed a number of different breakfast sandwiches or the very filling “Camo Biscuits.” Heather told us that’s a full order of biscuits and sausage gravy over a bed of home fries. The whole thing then topped with two eggs and their beer cheese sauce.
Late Crowd
As I said, we got there about an hour and a half after opening. But as we dined, more folks began to filter in for their first meal of the day. Our guess is that this is a later crowd than most places – some of whom may have had an energetic night-before.
The Wild Turkey Tavern has been in the same location for decades. Many of the customers have carved their names on the tables and into the walls. Some simply have left their mark with a Sharpie pen.
Naturally, we could not leave without leaving a little something at the boot to indicate we had been there.
Look for our name in the corner booth
The Bottom Line
We previously recommended this place for dinner. Now, we can recommend it for breakfast as well. It has a great atmosphere, quick service and our selections were hot and tasty.
The Wild Turkey sits just off Highway 27 South of Avon Park.
So we heard about ice cream at the Milking R Dairy in Okeechobee. They not only have a varied selection of flavors, they have a wonderful layout. It can be a great experience for young and old alike. Those who follow us know we like the fun and funky. Besides, July is Ice Cream Month, so we thought we’d give them a try.
Our first challenge was finding the place. It is located on Highway 98 just west of the city of Okeechobee. We didn’t see any large signs announcing the Milking R, but apparently they don’t need one. When we arrived it looked as though people already knew exactly where to go.
It’s a bit of a drive off Highway 98, but follow the signs and you’ll get there.
Our Arrival
We thank the Lord for our GPS, which brought us to the driveway at 5818 US 98 without a hitch. But after turning in, it was still a bit of a drive to the ice cream site. There were cows to the left of us and cows to the right as we motored in through the rich green pastureland. Along the way we noted small signs telling us we were headed in the right direction.
Finally, my eagle-eyed wife spotted the banner and we found a place to park. We then made our way toward the long, low white building that apparently serves as an impromptu dining area and gift shop.
When we saw the two ladies with ice cream, we figured we were in the right place.
On the front porch were places to sit and a fiberglass cow designed as both a photo op and a place to hone your milking skills.
Getting our Ice Cream
Walking around back, we found the ice cream location. It’s set up in what basically is a food wagon, parked under the roof. We dutifully got in line.
There was a line when we arrived, and folks were coming in behind us.
As we waited, we had plenty of time to look at the small A-frame chalk board to decide what flavors we wanted. However, our options were dwindling. We could see there were a number of flavors that already had been erased. Even as we stood there, a young lady came by, cloth in hand, and scrubbed out a couple more options.
The Milking R Dairy is family owned and operated. They make their product in small batches, which run from 30-35 pints at a time. Let us give you fair warning, this high-fat ice cream using natural and locally produced ingredients can be highly addictive.
The flavors include – but are not limited to – 50 Shades of Chocolate, Pucker Up Buttercup, Mango Me Crazy, Fizzle Tracks and Nutty Milkmaid (to name a few). Despite these very attractive offerings, I had decided to go to my default Vanilla while my wife would get her regular Butter Pecan.
“We’re out of Vanilla,” the girl at the counter told me. I was devastated.
“Do you have a flavor for which you are known?” I asked.
“That would be our Banana Puddin’,” she replied.
So that was my order and it would be one of the best decisions of the day.
This stuff is to die for.
There are no cones at the Milking R Dairy. Everything comes in plain white pint containers emblazoned with a simple label on top. We have decided this is some of the greatest ice cream on the face of the earth and we will be back.
The Gingerbread
We said this was an experience – and it is just that. Everything is stylized country. Off to the side of the serving trailer is a small sink so we could wash our hands. There are step-ups for the youngsters and it’s all decorated with a fun farm theme. That includes small pig baskets where we could put our used paper towels.
A fun place to get cleaned up before eating.
The Play Park
We mentioned that this was a great place to bring kids. Let me tell you that the attraction is more than just the ice cream. Just off to the side of the serving area we spotted a playground for the youngsters.
Owner Sutton Rucks told us that the Milking R Dairy has hosted many classes of school children. The idea was to let them know where their food comes from in an entertaining way.
We counted more than a half dozen stations where children of all ages could have fun. My favorite was the antique milk truck. It was flanked by a couple of benches where I could sit an watch the activities while the youngsters rammed about.
I just love antique vehicles and this truck is a personal favorite.
There were a couple of sand piles. One was a large area where youngsters move the sand about using hand-operated shovels and buckets. I was fascinated with a multi-level sandbox. It was made out of giant stacked tractor tires where the youngsters could climb as they played.
The multi-level sandbox
In addition to the sandbox, we saw “tire swings,” made from similar tires and hung horizontally from a cross-beam.
The tire swings were huge.
I thought one of the neatest things was a section of corrugated pipe that could be rolled down a set of rails between two giant hay stacks.
This would be a challenge even for an adult.
There also was an opportunity for the kids to pump their own water. There were plenty of hand pumps so there wouldn’t be much time to wait your turn.
Here’s your chance to pump water like a real pioneer.
Under Observation
As I walked the playground snapping pictures of the activity stations, I noticed that I was being watched. After a bit, I wondered who was watching whom.
They were almost as interested in me as I was in them.
The Milking R Family
We would be remiss if we didn’t mention the wonderful family who has put this whole operation together. It is owned and operated by Sutton Rucks and his wife Kris. We actually had a chance to talk with Sutton who gave us a brief history of the place.
His adult daughters also are hands-on. I believe it was Lindsay who waited us and Garrett who is credited with the recipe for the Banana Puddin’ ice cream that I wolfed down. Sutton’s sister Julie also helps out with her culinary expertise as well.
This is a great trip and Okeechobee has a lot to offer. In fact, we paired it up with another stop at the Center Mass Shooting Range – which we will be blogging about here very soon.
When it comes to the best Greek food in Florida – you would have to go a bit to top the Krazy Greek. Our first review of the Krazy Greek (now in Winter Haven) was back in 2018. We loved it then and we love it now.
Since that time we have visited a lot of Greek restaurants across the Sunshine State. We even have been to the heart of Florida’s Greek community in Tarpon Springs – where there are some admittedly great Greek eateries.
Some are bigger, some have a more appealing atmosphere – but when it comes to the menu – we have found that The Krazy Greek still tops our particular list.
The new building
New Location
Previously located in one of the bays of the Highpoint Plaza just off State Road 540, The Krazy Greek has moved to a building on an outparcel in the shopping center. It’s an unassuming gray block structure – but inside we find some of the best Greek dining in Florida.
They call it “insanely delicious” and we have to agree. The menu stretches from pitas and sandwiches, to platters, meals and salads. Our experience has been that we have received great service and generous portions.
Getting Your Order
There are no waiters and waitresses at the Krazy Greek. We simply come in, walk to the counter, make our order and go get a table.
You make your order at the counter – receive your beverage, then go find a table.
There’s a large menu posted on the back wall. We also found to-go menus just inside the door. There was plenty of time for us to pour over our choices before we hit the counter area to make our order.
We also had plenty of options when it came to places to sit. We enjoy sitting at a window seat. However, let it be noted, they also have outside dining for those who wish to enjoy the mild central Florida climate while they dine.
There’s plenty of seating inside and out at the Krazy Greek.
The Food
As we said, there’s an extensive menu at the Krazy Greek. We had our choice of Falafel or Chicken Souvlaki pitas, Greek Gyros, or Lamb burgers. Platters ranged from Shrimp Skewers to Salmon, Pork or Mahi. They even offer Caprese and Mediterranean Sampler platters.
Our go-to is the Spanakopita Dinner. These giant pieces of spinach pie served with a Greek Salad and Pita Bread is enough for lunch and a to-go box as well.
The Spanakoptia is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the tummy.
Somo of our other favorites include the Moussaka, the Dolmades Platter and the Orzo Salad.
The Desserts
Even if we’ve had plenty of dinner – that does not mean we have not left enough room for dessert. Tke Krazy Greek offers a couple different kinds of baklava (plain and cheesecake), as well as Kataifi. These are not large desserts but they certainly are sweet and the perfect topper for a wonderful meal.
All About the Food
Again, this is not a fine dining experience. There are not linen tablecloths and waiters running hither and yon. There’s no lighting of a dish of Saganaki with the accompanying shout of “OPA!”
What there is, is wonderful Greek food in an unexpected place. Yes, you have to get your own order and bring it to the table. Yes, there is plasticware. Yes, you have to bus your table and yes, it’s worth all of that and more.
So when it comes to the best Greek food in Florida – we suggest you try the Krazy Greek in Winter Haven. Let us know what you think.
When it comes to a true ice cream experience in Central Florida, our choice is Frostbite Ice Cream in the little hamlet of Frostproof. It’s nestled along Highway 27A on the edge of town.
The first thing we noticed was in addition to the dine-in the place also does a great drive-thru business.
They were lined up the day we were there.
Those who follow us, know we have mentioned this place before. It was included as one of our recommendations on Seven Food Finds.
Dining In
We, of course, wanted to go in for the dining experience. One of our favorite things about these kinds of places is the ambience. And the Frostbite has plenty of that. As we opened the door we heard retro music and saw the walls covered with metal signs of all kinds.
The Frostbite gives the feel of a retro diner.
The Menu
As much as we like the ice cream, this place also is a diner. That means I could get my burger, while my wife could go to her default nachos. But there are so many other options from which we had to choose.
There’s a whole slate of salads, from the standard chef, to shrimp salads and even an apple pecan salad. I had my choice of a number of different burgers. Although I was enticed by the mushroom swiss, I went with the slaw burger and exercised my option to “make it a double” with two meat patties.
My Slaw Burger and her plate piled high with nachos.
Additionally, we could have had a wrap, a sandwich or even a full meal. For the seafood lovers there are selections ranging from beer battered fish & chips all the way up to a full fried catfish dinner (if you’re hungry enough).
Ice Cream
But of course, it was the ice cream that had drawn us. And again, we had more than enough choices. Frostbite uses Ice Cream Club ice cream – made down in Cape Coral, Florida. We had a choice of 24 different flavors. We could have enjoyed such selections as Macinac Turtle Fudge, Stellar Coffee or Superman.
However, we defaulted to our favorites. I had vanilla, she had butter pecan. We both had waffle cones.
Frostbite had tubs and tubs of ice cream for us to choose. It’s made by Ice Cream Club based out of Cape Coral.
Incidentally, they have other ice cream treats as well. We were tempted with the shakes, floats and malts. Also on the menu were twisters, sundaes and yes, the iconic banana split.
The Experience
When you are looking for the small town ice cream experience, we recommend Frostbite. Of course, it’s a bit off the beaten path – but that’s where we travel. Just look to the west side of the road off Alternate 27. They’re on the outskirts of town – just up from the one big hill in the area.
It can be a tasty trip back to a much simpler time.
We always like to find new experiences and Nokomo’s Sunset Hut in Nokomis was a very pleasant surprise. Actually, we discovered this place during our stay at the Bentley Botique Hotel. We were looking for a late night snack in the area and this was the only place that still was open at the time.
I must admit – I was not enthusiastic about the opportunity. However, my wife was adamant and I finally relented. It was a good decision.
Made for the Sunset
As the name suggests – Nokomo’s Sunset Hut is uniquely designed to watch the sunset. As we came up the stairs we discovered the whole back of the building is open to a beautiful western exposure overlooking Dona Bay. Our view over the water was expansive and we saw a fair amount of traffic.
Although we came by car, there are those who come by boat. The Sunset Hut is prepared for both. We found plenty of parking on the street side and there was a nice dock out back just beckoning boat traffic to motor in, tie off and enjoy the evening.
Some seafarers decided to drop by while we were there,
Our Dinners
I originally thought The Sunset Hut would not be much more than a bar. Although they are quite well stocked in that department, they have some of the greatest food we could imagine. I was drawn to the Sunset Flatbread – with its cherry tomatoes, sauteed sweet onions and basil cream cheese – all drizzled with a balsamic glaze.
My flatbread – and was it yummy.
My wife defaulted to her go-to nachos. The Sunset Hut’s Noko Nachos are ample and tasty. Their chips are topped with cheese, tomatoes, scallions, black beans, scallions, jalapenos, salsa and sour cream. Not only was it a great combination, it came piled high in the bowl. (So high in fact, I was called upon to help her out. It was a tough job but somebody had to do it).
We got lots of nachos and with fierce determination managed to finish them off.
Other Menu Items
But that’s just a start. We looked hard at the handhelds, burgers & sliders, sunset salads and entrees that they offered. For the seafood lovers there were peel and eat shrimp, an assortment of fish tacos. island mussels and mahi island bites to name a few of the options.
It seemed that whatever the menu item, there was plenty of it. One of our friends ordered the Salmon BTLO. It was a full eight ounce seasoned and baked salmon with bacon, lettuce, tomato and red onion. And they hit it with their homemade Aoli sauce to boot!
We decided we had to make a return trip to try some of these other selections.
The Salmon BTLO was served on a Brioche Bun with chips and an edible orchid.
We found all the food to be as tasty as it was ample. Be careful of this. It was easy to get stuffed as we enjoyed the evening of conversation, great food and a wonderful sunset.
The Desserts
We did leave room for dessert. This was almost as difficult a decision as our meal. As we understand it, the key lime pie, chocolate lava cake, peanut butter pie and salted caramel cheesecake were to die for.
Once we learned the Pineapple Yum Cake was their signature dessert we decided to go with that. I can tell you, this was a great end to a wonderful dinner.
The Pineapple Yum Cake in all its glory replete with caramel drizzle, candied pecans, whipped cream and cherries.
Dining Options
We had a lot of dining options at Nokomo’s Sunset Hut. Our choices included tables along the railing both upstairs and down. Additionally, we could have eaten in a sandy, waterside lounging area out by the dock. They even had outside dining in the parking area that was illuminated by rope lights wrapped around a brace of palm trees.
Picnic tables overlooked Dona Bay at Nokomo’s Sunset Hut.
The Entertainment
While we dined, we were serenaded by the one and only Jimmy Bones. He ran through a litany of hits ranging from Roy Orbison to the Eagles. Jimmy played requests as well as the hits. I decided to ask him for something he seldom hears – we asked for an original tune.
He gave us something interesting – The NyQuil Blues – apparently something he wrote while he was home with a cold.
In Conclusion
For us, this was one great evening. We had wonderful food, some fun entertainment and the ambience would be tough to beat. It’s no wonder that Nokomo’s was voted a finalist last year for the Venice Area Chamber of Commerce “Business of the Year” award.
We also have to give special recognition to our waitress Jo-Jo. She was one of the best waitpersons we’ve ever had. In fact, she is so good, they even named a sandwich after her.
And finally, how could we do a story about Nokomo’s Sunset Hut without sharing a picture of our sunset? We can’t.
Our sunset at Nokomo’s Sunset Hut
Hint
We feel like we found a real gem in Nokomo’s Sunset Hut. Our recommendation is that when in the Venice area you give this a try. But we caution you, come hungry. We also suggest that you plan to arrive within an hour or so of sunset for maximum ambience.
July is Ice Cream Month, so we decided to celebrate with a trip to the Venice Avenue Creamery in beautiful downtown Venice. Formerly known as Bresler’s, this was a great find. As their sign says, “It’s the same folks with a different name.”
They told us that they have been serving up premium hand-dipped ice cream since 1967. Our favorite part was that their ice cream is made right on site. Better yet, they use local dairies for their stock.
The Venice Avenue Creamery boasts two cases of homemade ice cream – better than three dozen different flavors.
The Creamery
We discovered this place quite by accident. My wife’s ice cream alert went off as we were with friends shopping in the Historic Downtown Venice district. It was a particularly hot day so when she asked if anybody wanted ice cream, we all were ready.
Over the course of our travels we have visited a number of great Florida ice cream locations. We have enjoyed The Love Boat at Fort Myers Beach, the Frostbite in Frostproof, Joe’s Eats & Sweets on Anna Maria Island and Englewood’s Made in the Shade.
Most of them feature retro interiors with oldies music. We enjoy it as it adds to the dining experience. However, Venice Avenue Creamery has no such gingerbread – they carry it all on the strength of their ice cream.
We could get our ice cream in a cone or cup – and with a variety of toppings.
The Decisions
Exactly what to get turned out to be a rather difficult decision for most of us. The flavors include, but are not limited to, the basics such as chocolate, vanilla and butter pecan – as well as the more unusual such as Cookie Monster, Coffee Oreo and Birthday Cake.
Moreover, it was not just cones. There were classic sundaes, their own signature sundaes and banana splits. Oh, did I mention there also is a full menu of shakes, flurries and floats? We missed the Independence Day special – a Stars, Stripes & Sundae. That was dollop of soft serve set in a cotton candy bowl.
In addition to handmade ice cream, we also could have had a home made brownie to boot.
We could have had a brownie individually, in a sundae or even to go!
In all, our tastes were pretty simple. We ordered individual waffle cones of chocolate chip mint, butter pecan, caramel walnut and vanilla.
A Great Place for All
We were a group of shoppers. But while we were in there we saw individuals, families and even couples coming in to enjoy both some great ice cream and an air-conditioned respite from a blistering July day in the Sunshine State.
Everybody was enjoying the afternoon and some great frozen fare.
Make no mistake, the Venice Avenue Creamery’s ice cream is not inexpensive. That being said, we can attest for our orders, it was worth every creamy lick.
In fact, this is a place that begs us to return to try some of their other creations. I am quite keen to taste some of their shakes, my wife likes the floats and we have discussed sharing a banana split.
When you’re visiting Historic Downtown Venice – even if it’s not Ice Cream Month – we can recommend a wonderful little shopping break at the Venice Avenue Creamery. And you’ll be supporting some local dairies as well.
As we travel to different areas, we try to find out a bit about the region. On our most recent trip to Vero Beach we discovered the Indian River Citrus Museum – a great little place that was fun and jam-packed with information.
The official name is the “Heritage Center and Indian River Citrus Museum.” The title almost won’t fit inside the tiny building set back just off 14th Avenue in the Vero Beach Main Street District.
Because we like pop art, such as the very decorative citrus crate labels, we’d wanted to stop in and take a look during our initial getaway to Vero Beach. Sadly, it was closed at that time. We vowed to return. Happily it was open when we came back, so we thought we’d stop by and check it out.
Guarded by a painted sea turtle, it’s a short way up a tree-covered walk to the Heritage Center
Our Tour
We were fortunate enough to snag a tour with Special Events Coordinator Robyn Berry. Being that we were the only ones there, Robyn was able to give us her undivided attention and showed us around the facility.
Robyn told us that the building itself was built in the 1920’s as Vero’s original community center. But when a new center was constructed in the 1960s. this structure fell into disrepair. She said it was ready for the wrecking ball when members of the Indian River County Historical Society stepped in. They both saved and oversaw the building’s reconstruction.
I must tell you, from the polished wood floors to the paneled walls, they have done a marvelous job.
Some examples of Indian River Citrus and the people who made it great.
The Exhibits
The thing that impressed us most was the sheer volume of exhibits and artifacts that they were able to get into this rather small space. Moreover, the displays were well laid out and did not give us a cramped or crammed in feeling.
Among the exhibits we saw were a diorama of a local packing house, citrus machinery and plenty of artsy citrus labels from Florida packing houses. Our tour began with a brief history of the area and a look at founder Herman Zeuch. He was a former president of the Indian River Farms Company and quite instrumental in the development of the town of Vero.
As we walked through the building, we saw citrus farming artifacts, exhibits and dozens of historical photographs. They chronicled the settlement of the area and the development of the citrus industry which has become a trademark of the region.
One of our favorites was an old-time juicing machine beneath a poster from Blue Goose promoting citrus for health.
The Labels
Of course, we had come to see the display of packinghouse art. We were not disappointed. Not only was there an entire collection of the brightly colored labels, Robyn explained that the museum was preparing for a new promotion involving the art.
We were some of the first to see the prototype. It was an example of crate art, mounted on a steel frame. “Flo” was destined to one of a number of historic label re-creations that were to be posted around town celebrating the area’s citrus heritage.
Our favorite was the citrus label display.
We spent no small amount of time at the citrus label display. Robyn took time to explain to us about the different packing houses and how the museum had acquired their extensive collection of labels. We just loved the inventive names. Among some of our favorites were the “Taste It,” “Quality Tells” and “Chest of Gold” brands.
We noted that “Flo” had several different label styles as she evolved through the years. Additionally, we saw a few different versions of the “Tuxedo River” brand label.
For us, it was hard not to be impressed by the design and layout of the display. We love the vintage, the fun and the funky – so for us, this was the jackpot.
We were thrilled to learn that we could also take some of the labels home with us.
he souvenir stand
The Souvenirs
Yes, they saw us coming. Our tour ended up in front of the center’s souvenir stand. Staring us in the face was a collection of crate label art reproductions ready for framing. We were tempted by postcards and books on the subject as well.
It was a delight to see some citrus candy from Davidson’s of Dundee on display, as well as a selection of teas (my wife’s weakness) and even some locally-made seasonings.
I mean, what is a tourist attraction without a souvenir stand?
Our Recommendation
We can recommend the Heritage Center and Indian River Citrus Museum. As we tour different areas, we have visited a number of these same kinds of museums. I can tell you this one is as good as any and better than most.
Robyn gave us a great tour, but we took some time to peruse the place a bit at our own pace. She was quick to answer our questions and even point out some things we might not have seen. The best part is, it was free.
It isn’t a daylong excursion. We finished up in about an hour. We had plenty of fun and learned a lot in the process.
Had we brought our granddaughter, the Heritage Center is right next to Pocahontas Park. This would have been great both for us and for her.
Pocahantas Park
For us, there were comfortable benches to sit and watch. For her, there were lots of different kinds of play structures. We thought the best part was the artificial turf. This prevented us from having to treat ant bites and the like.
We decided the next time we visit, we might bring her along. It would be a wonderful opportunity for us to help her learn a bit of history, then allow her to blow off some steam while we relax under the trees.
When it comes to a good breakfast in Vero Beach, Mrs. Mac’s Fillin’ Station is difficult to beat. We had our first exposure to Mrs Mac’s during our initial Vero Beach getaway. but we didn’t actually eat there. Instead, because restaurants had been shut down due to the Coronavirus situation, we had a to-go meal.
However, we decided to come back when the place had opened up and experience all the ambiance. I can tell you, the taste of the food is greatly enhanced by the nostalgic decor. Everywhere we looked we saw both genuine and re-creation signs and displays about cars, gas stations, automotive equipment and the like.
From the vintage gas pump to the license plates on the wall, the outside of Mrs Mac’s has the same ambience as the inside of the restaurant.
The Menu
Mrs. Mac’s has carried the car-theme all the way down to the menu. There are “headlights,” which are pancakes, “rag tops,” which are the sticky buns, and a myriad of dishes with names for cars, parts and even highways.
Even the waitresses have taken on automotive names. Our first waitress called herself “Punch Buggy” which is slang for a Volkswagen. This time, the lovely “Porsche” waited on us. All in all, it was fun time and the food was good, plentiful and quick out of the kitchen.
I had the “Doozy” named for the Duesenberg automobile – an omelet with all the accessories. My wife had the “Mechanic’s Favorite.”
The Dining Experience
We had to wait a few minutes to get seated as it is a popular place. However, there was plenty to keep us entertained while we were waiting. A large glass case at the checkout counter greeted us as we entered. It was just packed full of all kinds of memorabilia. We saw patches, small metal models, gas station premiums and other kinds of memorabilia that bring back a flood of memories.
Some of the objects of interest to look at while you’re waiting at Mrs. Macs.
And as we said, the decor gave us a great dining experience. We saw everything from spinning street signs to an actual giant metal Texaco sign hanging on the walls. There also was a steady stream of nostalgic music to add to the atmosphere.
This is one of the dining rooms at Mrs. Mac’s
Our Return
We can testify we had a good breakfast in Vero Beach at Mrs. Mac’s. Now, our intent is to return for a good lunch. Looking through their menu, I already had my eye on some of the “Car Hop Specials.” the “Pita Builts” and the “Cruisers.” My wife was perusing the “Tailpipes” (aka hot dogs) among the other selections.
And for one of their deserts, they have home made Key Lime Pie. They call the dessert menu “The Final Lap.”
It’s a bit off the beaten path, but we found Mrs. Mac’s Fillin’ Station to be a restaurant and mercantile that is both a tasty and fun place to top off your tank.
When it comes to Florida hotels with a view, we have come across six that have provided wonderful stays for us.
The Prestige Hotel
The first would be our latest visit. The Prestige Hotel at Vero Beach had a wonderful view of the grounds, to the beach and all the way to the Atlantic. From our balcony we could see the beautiful blue waters of the Treasure Coast.
It was far enough away that we couldn’t actually hear the pounding of the waves. However, the sea breeze in the evening was there and was most delightful.
Our view from the third floor balcony of the Prestige Hotel in Vero Beach
In fact, we could sweep our curtains open and watch the dawn begin to break from our bed. Then, it was only a short walk down the path to the shore where we could watch the sunrise over the ocean.
As we pointed out in our article about the Prestige Hotel, there apparently are only eight rooms that face out onto the ocean. That being said, for us, the view from our room was breathtaking.
The Vista Inn on Lake Tarpon
We have written about The Vista Inn on Lake Tarpon in the past. It is our go-to place when we visit Tarpon Springs. Our room of choice is within a certain block of rooms located directly above a canal that leads out onto Lake Tarpon.
Any one of these provides a great place to sit and watch the sun come up. We also could sit out in the evening and see a wonderful moonrise.
The sunrise view from the Vista balcony was amazing
The Vista had the largest balcony by far, and sitting in the quiet with our coffee and Greek sweet bread provided a more than romantic interlude. And because Tarpon Springs is on the Gulf, we could drive over to a nearby park in the evening and view a wonderful sunset as well.
The Edison Beach House
The Edison Beach House in Fort Myers Beach is another great place we have discovered where we can sit on our balcony and enjoy the ambience. It was an accidental find and has proved to be one of the most enjoyable of our stays. In fact, it has been so great that we have visited on several occasions.
Sunset from our balcony at the Edison
The Edison might well qualify for “boutique” status. All of the rooms have everything we needed for an extended stay. Better yet, each of their rooms faces the Gulf and each has its own wonderful view.
They feature a pool, lounging area and have many amenities for their visitors – including bicycles for those who want to get a bit of exercise exploring the area.
Like the Prestige Hotel, it is a short walk to the beach, and not much further down to Times Square – the entertainment hub of Fort Myers Beach.
Bentley’s Boutique Hotel
Part of the Best Western Premier Collection, Bentley’s Boutique Hotel also provided us with a nice balcony on which to relax. Granted, it did not overlook a beach but this one gives a great view of the hotel courtyard.
That being said, the grounds are well sculpted. There’s a large swimming pool ringed by small, covered pavilions with padded couches and tables. Behind those sit sandy play areas designed to resemble a beach. Although man-made, the space was attractive and within easy view of parents watching their children play.
Our second floor balcony at Bentley’s Boutique Hotel was secluded.
The best part for us was that our particular balcony was covered by the foliage of a large palm. That gave us the opportunity to enjoy a great view without actually being on display ourselves.
Seven – The Sebring Raceway Hotel
Seven – The Sebring Raceway Hotel is perched on Turn 7 – the famous Hairpin Turn at the Sebring International Raceway. Instead of an ocean view, occupants of the trackside accommodations can see the most exciting portion of the world-famous 3.72 mile road course.
Our stay involved watching a New Year’s Eve race (the first in 50 years.) We then attended a wonderful party and rang in the new year.
A view of the track from the second floor of Seven- The Sebring Raceway Hotel.
The hotel itself is a wonderful venue. In the past we have enjoyed watching the races from their restaurant. The facility also features a pool, an exercise room and meeting facilities.
The Hontoon Landing & Resort
Earning an honorable mention, is the Hontoon Landing & Resort. Although we did not have a private balcony, the shared deck was just a few steps from our door. The second floor platform actually was supposed to be “closed until 8am.” However, we sneaked out to a table. It was wonderful to enjoy our morning coffee and watch the sun come up.
We sat on the deck watching fishermen head out at first light.
This is another little place that had its own restaurant, with both indoor and riverside seating. There also was a small shop where we could get snack food, souvenirs and even fishing supplies. As far away from civilization as it seemed, the Hontoon Landing was just a few minutes away from everything Deland had to offer.
A Room With A View
Some of these places already have been our Five Most Romantic Florida Vacation Spots. In fact, all of these could have made that list. There’s just something about being able to sit down and enjoy some quiet “us time” at our chosen lodging.
Whether it’s watching the sunrise or sunset, just sitting out in the morning or an evening – having a balcony or a private place to enjoy ourselves provides a relaxing time and puts the “vacation” in our stay. These Florida hotels with a view are some of our top recommendations.
We have had a few very nice waterfront stays during our travels but few have been as nice as the Prestige Hotel in Vero Beach. Like the Sea Spray Inn, where we stayed on our last visit, this is a retro property. However, the Prestige Hotel is right on the water.
They only have a few rooms with an ocean view, but those that have them are breathtaking.
The view from our third floor room.
Finding The Prestige
We looked long and hard at TripAdvisor to find a place that suited our needs. An ocean view was a must for us this time around. But it had to fit our pricepoint as well. The Prestige Hotel seemed to fit our criteria – so we took a chance and booked a pair of nights.
It was a very good choice.
Our third floor room had a commanding view of the hotel grounds all the way to the Atlantic. Our balcony proved to be a great spot to see the sunrise, have a bit of a morning breakfast and even provided wonderful evenings where we could sit and take in the sea breeze.
Looking down from our balcony, we could see the patio and its night lights. The soft red glow from the lamps gave enough illumination to see without being annoying.
The best part was viewing the sunrise. We could see the skies at first light from our bedroom window. The area was absolutely quiet. We had two perfect opportunities to greet our new day. First from the balcony, then a walk down to the private beach area where we watched the sun break the horizon.
Once we saw first light, we knew it was time to get ready to walk down to the beach
Actually, it was a pretty short trip down the path carved through a hedge of sea grapes. It emptied out into the dunes, which then opened on to the beach. We were met by the sound of pounding surf and a spectacular sunrise.
The sun just breaking the Horizon over the Atlantic.
Our Accommodations
The room itself had everything we needed. There were all the comforts of home and more. In fact, we had a kitchenette with a full sized refrigerator and microwave. There also was a sink and a two-burner stove top. We also had a coffee maker, a toaster and plenty of cabinet space.
The bedroom had a dining table, a desk for a work station plus the obligatory dresser and flat screen TV. We could easily have stayed there for a week.
Our king sized bed with a view
The bathroom had a walk-in shower with a square waterfall-style shower head. It was as refreshing as it was stylish. I will tell you. the bed was comfortable (if mounted a bit low for us). But one of our biggest shocks was when we opened the closet – we found matching his and hers robes.
A nice touch that made us feel quite ritzy.
Our Location
The room was great, the view was spectacular and we were in an area that had everything we needed. Just across the street were two restaurants within easy walking distance. First, there was Di Mare – located almost directly across the street. They featured French and Italian fine dining. Just next door there was Trattoria Dario – an authentic, family run Italian restaurant.
However, we took to the car and visited some old favorites, found a couple of new places and discovered at least one tourist attraction. But we will be blogging those later.
Our Recommendation
In just one visit, the Prestige Hotel has become one of our favorites. Although we had to haul everything up and down six flights of stairs (there is no elevator) it was worth every step. The room was wonderful and had everything we needed. The stay was comfortable and there were amenities we did not use.
They have a great little pool a spacious patio and lawn. But the walk down to the private beach was what hooked us. There are few atmospheres more enjoyable than sunshine, salt air and a sea breeze.
Yes, it is a bit of a splurge – but it’s worth it.
So there we were, ankle deep in water, looking out from our private beach into the Atlantic.
My wife just reminded me, we walked the beach four times in two days. Take a look. How could we not?
