We recently visited Ocala and found the best thing to do in Ocala with kids, courtesy of Ocala/Marion County VCB, and we enjoyed some incredible meals while we were there. There are lots of restaurants in the area, but I've rounded up some of the best restaurants in Ocala to make your visit even better!
The Best Restaurants in Ocala & Marion County
Best Pizza in Ocala - Blue Highway Pizzeria
If you're looking for a casual dining experience with incredible food, you will love Blue Highway Pizzeria! You can try out some fresh Italian appetizers, sandwiches, and gourmet pizza. Our Garlic Bread appetizer was so full of flavor and a large enough portion that we could share.
Now, I've been to Italy, and the pizza at Blue Highway tops any we had while traveling overseas! If that doesn't tell you how amazing this pizza is, I don't know what will. My parents raved about this meatball pizza and are still talking about it and planning to go back. Hands down, I'd say Blue Highway Pizzeria is one of the best restaurants in Ocala.
Check out our desserts, too! They were presented beautifully and tasted as incredible as they look.
Casual Dining in Ocala - Mojo Grill
The atmosphere at the Mojo Grill is so unique, you won't find anything else like it in the Ocala area. If you want an idea of the flavors you'll find here, think Cajun food mixed with Cuban fare. Add a few southern sides and you've got the Mojo Grill!
Check out the bright colors and off-the-wall decor here honoring various blues legends! The staff was great and the food was, too. It was another casual dining experience that was right up our alley during our Ocala visit.
My burger and fries were cooked to perfection!
This is definitely a great family-friendly restaurant with lots of great options for kids and adults. Mojo Grill has 3 locations to serve you: Ocala, East Ocala, and Belleview.
Great atmosphere and food in Ocala - Brooklyn's Backyard
If you love eating outdoors but prefer the air conditioning during Florida's hotter months, Brooklyn's Backyard will be the perfect compromise. From the Astro-turf flooring to the retro patio furniture, you feel like you're literally in a backyard rather than a restaurant that serves a large variety of meals including pizza, wings, and upscale burgers.
The service here is outstanding. Our waitress catered to our every need.
Check out the fun atmosphere! It reminds me of having a family barbeque in the yard. I loved every unique touch that Brooklyn's Backyard offers, from the darker ceiling to the hanging lights and pergola, the ambiance is just awesome.
If you're a craft beer fan, you'll love the variety at Brookyln's Backyard! My husband absolutely loves Swamp Head Brewery's Big Nose IPA so I was thrilled to see that on the wall.
Rather than being required to order off a kids' menu, Brooklyn's Backyard will take anything off the regular menu and make it kid-sized. Our guy thought it was pretty great that he could order whatever he wanted.
All of us loved our meals and the service. These crab cakes were delicious!
One of the most unique experiences here was our son's favorite thing. You can actually make s'mores at the table! He officially thinks they have the best dessert ever!
Best Indian Food in Ocala - Amrit Palace
When we lived in Gainesville, we would travel the 30+ minutes to Ocala just for Amrit Palace. They've since relocated to a bigger restaurant at a new location (just up the street from their previous spot). Anything you choose from the menu will be authentic Indian food with incredible flavor!
Best Seafood in Ocala - Harry's Seafood, Bar, and Grill Ocala
Located in the heart of Ocala, Harry's is a casual dining restaurant that serves southern, Cajun, and Creole flavors on their menu. With a full bar including Harry's unique cocktails, it will be a great choice if you love seafood. We frequented the Gainesville location and loved it. We've never had a bad meal at Harry's.
Best Fine Dining in Ocala - Mark's Prime Steakhouse and Seafood
If it's fine dining you're after, Mark's Prime Steakhouse and Seafood is a fantatic choice. Their steaks and extensive wine list are the perfect combination for a night out. We were big fans of the Mark's Prime in Gainesville.
Which one of these restaurants in Ocala would you like to visit?
Let me know in the comments!
Be sure to check out my post about the best things to do in Ocala. This is especially useful if you're traveling with little ones, but really, it's great for kids of all ages!
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