Mount Dora Business and Real Estate

Central Lake County: Where gratitude and good neighbors meet country charm

11/1/2025

By Brooke Vermeulen
Local Realtor and and Mount Dora Buzz real estate contributor

November brings cooler air, glowing sunsets over Lake Dora, and a season of slowing down to appreciate the people and places that make life feel full. In Central Lake County, home isn’t just an address—it’s a way of living. It’s waving to a neighbor from your front porch, grabbing coffee from someone who already knows your order, and watching the the quaint downtown's light up for the holidays.

The local community has a way of feeling both small and special. It’s where local business owners double as friends, artists capture lakefront scenes, and tight-knit musicians bring everyone together on weekend nights in vibrant venues. The song “Famous Friends” by Chris Young and Kane Brown could easily describe life here—because in this part of Lake County, everyone knows someone who makes a difference. The area's real celebrities are the teachers, small-business owners, and community leaders who show up for parades, fundraisers, and Friday-night games.

Maybe that’s what makes people to stay. The scenery is beautiful, sure—but the sense of connection seems to draw people in and keeps them here. The comfort of belonging, the pride of supporting everything local, and the joy of being part of something that still feels genuine is something that makes small-town life attractive.

As Thanksgiving rolls in, gratitude often comes easy to residents in central Lake County, where home is more than an address—it’s a feeling. And for those who call the area home, that’s something to be thankful for all year.

By Brooke Vermeulen
Local Realtor and and Mount Dora Buzz real estate contributor

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, visit the area's website and download the area's free mobile app. Be sure to follow Mount Dora Buzz's Instagram and Facebook page for more local info.

Top 10 highest home sales in Mount Dora, Tavares and Eustis in 2025

9/28/2025

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By Brooke Vermeulen
Local Realtor and and Mount Dora Buzz real estate contributor

Luxury living across Lake County reached new heights in 2025. As new rooftops rise throughout the region, the Tri-City area of Mount Dora, Tavares, and Eustis continued to draw high-end buyers seeking waterfront views, space, and lifestyle.

According to publicly reported property records, the year’s most exclusive single-family homes ranged in sale price from $1.5 million to just over $2.6 million, proving that Central Florida’s lakefront market remains among the most desirable in the state.

#10 | $1,505,000 – 36438 N. County Road 44A, Eustis
4,695 square-foot lakefront home
4 bedrooms • 4 bathrooms
A striking custom build on Eustis’s rolling hills, blending classic architecture with sunset lake views.

#9 | $1,595,000 – 588 Casey Loop, Mount Dora
2,665 square-foot pre-construction home
4 bedrooms • 3 bathrooms
One of Mount Dora’s few new luxury builds, this modern farmhouse design captured attention even
before completion.

#8 | $1,598,398 – 3637 Hidden River Lane, Tavares
3,580 square-foot lakefront canal home on 2.7 acres
5 bedrooms • 5 bathrooms
Private canal access and acreage made this estate a standout for buyers seeking both space and serenity.

#7 | $1,760,000 – 30303 Island Club Drive, Eustis
3,204 square-foot lakefront home
4 bedrooms • 3 bathrooms
Situated in the Island Club community, this home balanced resort-style living with timeless Florida design.

#6 | $1,799,000 – 1750 Country Club Drive, Eustis
6,710 square-foot home
4 bedrooms • 5 bathrooms
Spacious and stately, this residence offered expansive entertaining areas overlooking manicured
fairways.

#5 | $1,915,000 – 11200 Lane Park Road, Tavares
4,008 square-foot lakefront home on 5.38 acres
3 bedrooms • 3.5 bathrooms
Set on more than five acres, this property combined equestrian charm with luxury lake access.

#4 | $2,235,000 – 11226 Lane Park Road, Tavares
5,900 square-foot lakefront home
4 bedrooms • 5 bathrooms
Neighboring estates along Lane Park Road continued to dominate sales charts, highlighting the
area’s enduring prestige.

#3 | $2,550,000 – 11106 Lane Park Road, Tavares
7,379 square-foot lakefront home on 6.42 acres
6 bedrooms • 5.5 bathrooms
A grand waterfront retreat offering acreage, privacy, and panoramic views.

#2 | $2,605,000 – 27700 County Road 44A, Eustis
3,818 square-foot home
4 bedrooms • 4 bathrooms
Modern styling and meticulous finishes placed this property among the year’s most coveted Eustis
addresses.

#1 | $2,619,500 – 15749 Acorn Circle, Tavares
6,803 square-foot lakefront estate
6 bedrooms • 5 bathrooms
The crown jewel of 2025 — a sweeping lakefront home that set a new benchmark for luxury sales across the Tri-City area.

CURRENT MARKET LEADERS
While prices fluctuate, several listings are now poised to continue the upward trend in 2026:

$3,100,000 – 1945 Overlook Drive, Mount Dora
6,823 square feet
3 bedrooms • 7 bathrooms

$2,699,000 – 11148 Lane Park Road, Tavares
6,562 square feet
5 bedrooms • 5 bathrooms

$2,500,000 – 35126 William Lane, Eustis
3,588 square feet
Lakefront home on 20 acres
4 bedrooms • 7 bathrooms

Lake County’s luxury market shows no signs of slowing down. Limited inventory, premier lakefront settings, and a growing appeal among out-of-area buyers continue to drive strong demand. For those drawn to the lifestyle, the Tri-City area remains one of Central Florida’s brightest gems — where timeless character meets elevated living.

By Brooke Vermeulen
Local Realtor and and Mount Dora Buzz real estate contributor

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, visit Mount Dora Buzz's website, its Instagram and Facebook page. Download the area's free mobile app for info on the go. For local food recommendations, follow Mount Dora Foodie's Facebook and its official Instagram account.

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Mount Dora leads Central Lake County in home prices as neighboring markets shift

9/2/2025

ABOVE: Aerial of downtown Mount Dora. (Mount Dora Buzz photo)

By Brooke Vermeulen
Local Realtor and Mount Dora Buzz real estate contributor

Home prices across central Lake County show distinct trends, with Mount Dora continuing to command the highest values, while nearby communities offer varying opportunities for buyers seeking affordability or long-term growth.

Mount Dora’s housing market remains strong, with the median sold price reaching $450,000 in July, up 10% year-over-year, according to data from Stellar MLS. Homes in the city’s historic downtown and lakeside neighborhoods, coupled with its thriving arts scene, help keep demand resilient even as inventory rises. Properties are selling in a median of 55 days, slightly longer than last year but consistent with seasonal trends.

Sorrento follows closely behind as one of the higher-priced markets in Lake County. In July, the median sold price was $412,000, up 3.1% from last year. Homes spent a median of 50 days on the market, reflecting steady demand for larger lots, newer construction, and a semi-rural setting.

Eustis has shown notable momentum this summer. The city’s median sold price rose 2.4% year-over-year to $346,640, with homes selling in a median of just 39 days, nearly half the time compared to last year. This faster pace suggests renewed buyer activity, particularly among families and commuters seeking value.

Tavares, known as “America’s Seaplane City,” rounds out the group with a median sold price of $315,000 in July, down 12% from the previous year. Homes are taking longer to sell, with a median of 60 days on market, signaling a shift toward a more balanced environment as inventory expands. Across Lake County, inventory has increased 15% compared to last year, giving buyers more choices even as certain cities remain competitive.

The differences among these four communities highlight distinct lifestyle choices and market dynamics. Mount Dora attracts buyers seeking culture and lakefront living; Sorrento appeals to those wanting space and newer homes; Eustis offers affordability and faster-moving inventory; and Tavares provides waterfront living at one of the most accessible price points in the region.

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, visit Mount Dora Buzz's website, its Instagram and Facebook page. Download the area's free mobile app for info on the go. For local food recommendations, follow Mount Dora Foodie's Facebook and its official Instagram account.

Mount Dora’s inaugural Book Expo slated for September 20

9/1/2025

Pickleball won’t be the only fun activity in downtown Donnelly Park on Saturday, September 20. Bookworms, bibliophiles, and aspiring authors can enjoy the inaugural Mount Dora Book Expo from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Donnelly Building at the corner of Fifth Avenue and Donnelly Street.

The free event, hosted by Barrel of Books and Games, celebrates local talent and will feature more than a dozen area authors showcasing and selling their works, with genres ranging from children’s books to fantasy, novels, and nonfiction. Authors will also be available to sign copies for attendees.

At 1 p.m., bestselling local author Taryn Souders and editor/publisher Bill Opperman, who also serves as Mount Dora Buzz’s long-time editor, will give a keynote presentation followed by a Q&A session. Souders is known for mid-grade children’s novels including Dead Possums Are Fair Game, Coop Knows the Scoop and Whole-y Cow! Fractions Are Fun. Her books have appeared on state reading lists across the country and have been praised for blending humor with meaningful lessons for young readers.

Door prizes and raffles will round out the afternoon, with winners required to be present to claim door prizes but not raffle prizes.

The Donnelly Building is fully accessible for individuals with disabilities. Only service animals are permitted. Cash and credit card payments will be accepted.

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, visit Mount Dora Buzz's website, its Instagram and Facebook page. Download the area's free mobile app for info on the go. For local food recommendations, follow Mount Dora Foodie's Facebook and its official Instagram account.

Fun pottery painting at Yada Yada Pottery helps feed those in need

8/1/2025

The annual community pottery painting has begun! For the next few months Yada Yada Pottery will once again host pottery painting in its studio to benefit Lake Cares Food Pantry. Anyone feeling creative or community-minded can stop in the downtown studio on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 5:30 to 8 p.m. to paint bowls to be used in the annual Empty Bowls Fundraiser that will take place later this year.

The cost to paint a bowl is $7 which will also be donated to Lake Cares. After the months-long effort to create hundreds of uniquely painted bowls, the Empty Bowls fundraiser will take place this fall. The community gathering features a fun soup supper where attendees select from the one-of-a-kind bowls and then fill them with delicious soup donated by generous area restaurants. Every penny raised goes directly to support Lake Cares Food Pantry, the local nonprofit food pantry. Typically, the event also features live music, a silent auction and more in the heart of downtown Mount Dora.

Founded in 1990, Empty Bowls has grown into an international project to fight hunger, personalized by artists on a community level. The event raises funds for local charitable organizations dedicated to providing nourishment to those in need within their immediate communities. Over the years, Empty Bowls has successfully generated millions of dollars to combat hunger in cities across the world.

Lake Cares is a local independent, nonprofit food pantry that provides food, resources and services to residents who are in need of assistance in Lake County, Florida. This is accomplished with the help of numerous donors, volunteers and a caring community.

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, visit Mount Dora Buzz's website, its Instagram and Facebook page. Download the area's free mobile app for info on the go. For local food recommendations, follow Mount Dora Foodie's Facebook and its official Instagram account.

Crafted Scent Bar blossoms in Downtown Mount Dora with DIY fragrance magic

8/1/2025

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(Photo credit: Crafted Scent Bar)

Crafted Scent Bar, the DIY fragrance studio popular in Eustis, has officially relocated to 129 W. 5th Avenue, right next to Yada Yada Pottery.

Owner Mellisa McHaffie, a candle‑making expert with more than 26 years of experience, is also a 2024 local TEDx speaker on the power of smell. She welcomes locals and visitors alike to what she describes as “an experience, not just a product.”

Guests choose from over 60 phthalate‑free fragrances and craft their own signature items—candles, reed diffusers, wax melts, and room sprays—all in stylish vessels that reflect their style or event needs. The vibe is creative, relaxed and social: perfect for date nights, friend outings, solo escapes, or even team building and business‑branding events.

Workshops are guided and very hands‑on: you blend scents, pour wax or oils, and leave with a one‑of‑a‑kind creation. Walk‑ins are welcome when space allows; appointments are required for classes or private groups.

The studio exudes an inviting ambiance with sample fragrance displays, and plenty of vessel options—stylish jars, tins, and bottles to suit every creative mood.

Crafted Scent Bar is nestled among many of downtown Mount Dora’s unique boutiques, galleries and restaurants. It’s located at 129 W. 5th Avenue, Mount Dora, FL 32757 Its hours are Sunday, Monday & Wednesday: 12 p.m. – 5 p.m. (classes at 12 p.m. & 3 p.m.). Thursday, Friday & Saturday: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. (classes also at 12 p.m., 3 p.m., and 6 p.m.) Walk-ins are welcome when space allows; bookings recommended. It’s closed on Tuesdays.

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, visit Mount Dora Buzz's website, its Instagram and Facebook page. Download the area's free mobile app for info on the go. For local food recommendations, follow Mount Dora Foodie's Facebook and its official Instagram account.

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Popular Tavares farm may transition into new development

6/1/2025

ABOVE: Entrance to Far Reach Ranch (Mount Dora Buzz photo)

A favorite Tavares destination may become a residential and commercial development. The landowners of Far Reach Ranch, a fun agri-tourism venue and working u-pick blueberry farm, is considering a plan to develop the property.

The sprawling farm is over 600 acres and includes 100 acres of farmland, 300 acres of timber, plus over 200 acres of wetland, including a scenic lake.

The farm is family-owned and operated since its first blueberry plantings in 1994. Previously, it was established as a cattle ranch and citrus groves in the 1940s.

Far Reach Ranch landowners’ representatives have reached out to their neighbors to invite them to a community meeting to inform them that a plan to develop the property is in the works. The City of Tavares has not received any formal submission for this project, but when it does, the proposal will proceed through the standard governmental review process. A mixed-use residential and commercial development typically spans a two-year period.

The landowners’ community meeting will be held Thursday, June 5 at 5:30 p.m. at the Tavares Civic Center at 100 East Caroline Street. It’s important to note that this is not a City of Tavares meeting.

Far Reach Ranch joins nearby Long & Scott Farm in unincorporated Lake County to be in discussions to develop their property.

For more events and news in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, click here. Find out what's happening locally with just a tap on your phone by downloading the area's free mobile app. Free monthly issues of Mount Dora Buzz are available here.

New Mount Dora residential project cited for multiple code violations

4/4/2025

ABOVE: The Notice of Violation posted at the project at 650 Liberty Avenue, Mount Dora

A Mount Dora Code Compliance Inspector recently initiated an inquiry into tree removal after observing clearing activity at the southwest corner of Liberty Avenue and Clayton Street during the week of January 27, 2025. Initially, there was some internal confusion at City Hall, as the approved duplex project on that parcel included a permitted landscape removal plan, according to the City. The property owner is Cottage Way LLC (previously named Bungalows Mount Dora LLC), whose registered agent and managing member is Gerry Guenther, the principal of G3 Development (G3 MD, LLC).

The City of Mount Dora did not receive any formal complaints from residents regarding this project, although there have been numerous inquiries and comments expressing interest and concern, according to a City official. The City of Mount Dora has a policy of informing code violators of who reported them, which effectively discourages residents from submitting formal complaints.

RELATED STORY: G3 Development and Mount Dora Center for the Arts embroiled in litigation

On February 3, 2025, it was determined that the general contractor had exceeded the scope of the approved permit. The City promptly contacted the General Contractor of Record to report these observations and the multiple alleged code violations (see attached Notice of Violation below). Additionally, City staff held a verbal discussion with the property owner to inform them of the violations.

The City requested a mitigation plan from the property owner, and the contractor took some initial measures to protect the site from stormwater runoff, erosion, and sedimentation. However, the submitted mitigation plan lacked several key details, and the City is currently awaiting additional information, according to the City’s Communication Director, Misty Sommer.

In the meantime, the City of Mount Dora instructed the contractor to preserve the remaining trees on the property. Despite this directive, three additional trees were removed without the required permit, and the only remaining tree has not been properly protected during construction, according to information from Sommer.

notice_of_violation_at__650_liberty_ave_mount_dora.pdf
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In response, the City issued a Notice of Violation and Notice of Hearing (see attached file above), which were delivered via certified mail, posted on-site, and posted at City Hall, as required by Florida Statutes. The case is scheduled to be heard before the City’s Special Magistrate on April 17, 2025, at 10 a.m. at City Hall, where the property owner can present their side of the issue.

For more events and news in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, click here. Find out what's happening locally with just a tap on your phone by downloading the area's free mobile app. Free monthly issues of Mount Dora Buzz are available here.

Sale of iconic Long & Scott Farms could make way for more homes

2/1/2025

ABOVE: Long & Scott Farms agri-tourism attraction and corn maze in the distance. (Photo supplied by Long & Scott Farms/2018).

It’s been a popular agricultural icon in Lake County for decades. Long & Scott Farms, well-known for its trademarked Zellwood Sweet Corn, u-pick produce, and its sprawling seven-acre corn maze, may become part of the fast-changing landscape of rural Lake County.

Farmed for over 60 years, the roughly 700-acre agricultural land is in the process of being sold to Omni Development for a project expected to include residential development and a golf course, according to published reports.

It’s far too early in the process for plans to be submitted for approval to Lake County. However, the preliminary conceptual plan of the project would replace the farmland with homes and a golf course, and potentially other uses. A community meeting with Long & Scott Farms and Omni Development is scheduled for March 3 at 6 p.m. at the farm, where residents will have an opportunity to learn more. The farm is located a few miles south of Mount Dora at 26216 County Road 448A.

Hank Scott, the second Scott generation to lead the farm, vows that selling the property doesn’t mean the end to the family’s farming and corn maze.

“We’re not disappearing,” Scott said in a Fox35 interview that aired on February 20. “We’re going to build it back up in a better place and do an even better job farming.” He estimated that the sale could take up to two years to finalize.

Meanwhile, Lake County leaders have discussed exploring the viability of also putting in an offer for the farm.

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, visit the area's website and download the area's free mobile app. Follow Mount Dora Buzz's Facebook and Instagram for more local info.

Scenic rooftop bar to open in downtown Tavares

2/1/2025

ABOVE: The main building of Citrus on the Lake Hotel prior to construction of rooftop bar. (Photo source: Citrus on the Lake)

Built in 2014 and originally named the Key West Resort, the trio of multi-story buildings along Ruby Street in downtown Tavares now have modern new branding and a fresh direction, including a rooftop martini bar with expansive views of Lake Dora.

David and Hillary Perry, along with partner Emad Shahid, renamed the 66-room hotel The Citrus on the Lake and are transitioning the property into a contemporary boutique hotel. The new name pays homage to the citrus packing plant that was located where the hotel’s main building is now perched. The design and decor will also tie in to the area’s citrus industry and include an interactive "history wall."

So far the partners, who have a purchase agreement for the three buildings, have remodeled the entire ground floor of the main building, which included the creation of a lobby. In addition to new signage with its fresh logo, the exterior will also include a water feature at the front of the main building. Future updates will be the remodeling of rooms and the addition of some outdoor amenities.

Citrus Sky Bar will open soon on the roof of the hotel’s main building just feet away from the shore of Lake Dora. Besides impressive water views, the approximate 300-seat bar will also feature a 30-martini menu, plus other cocktails and light fare like flatbreads, charcuterie boards and other small plates.

The Perrys are no strangers to creating strong conceptual businesses. The couple also have ownership in Nautilus Coffee Company, The Argonaut Bar & Lounge, Ironworks Steakhouse, and Poppy's Ice Cream.

The Citrus on the Lake is located at 199 W. Ruby Street in downtown Tavares just off Lake Dora and Wooton Park. The ground floor of the main building is also home to Lake County Museum of Art and Tavares Dog House restaurant.

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, visit the area's website and download the area's free mobile app. Be sure to follow Mount Dora Buzz's Facebook and Instagram for more local info.

The Yardery expected to open in Mount Dora soon

1/1/2025

ABOVE: Rendering of the Mount Dora location provided by The Yardery.

In what has become an eclectic dining destination, downtown Mount Dora will be adding a new restaurant concept with the opening of The Yardery sometime this month. The two-level eatery and bar had originally planned to open a year ago.

The approximate 5,400 square-foot restaurant includes a roughly 2,000 square-foot bar on its open-air second floor. The ground floor will feature relaxed al fresco dining, another bar, and fun yard games like cornhole, foosball, Connect Four, ladder toss and Giant Jenga. The Yardery (think yard plus eatery) has a modern farmhouse style and features a casual outdoor dining menu with plenty of entertainment options for guests to add to their experience. The family-friendly restaurant’s friendly and apropos motto is “Eat, drink and play in the yard.”

RELATED: Local Mount Dora Restaurant Guide

The menu features “backyard food with a twist” and includes favorites like the Yardery Burger, Cajun fish tacos, barbecue chicken flatbread, in-house smoked ribs, and honey-hot fried chicken. Guests can also imbibe in The Yardery's signature cocktails, craft beer and wine selection.

Recently, Botanico opened in Mount Dora which also offers yard games, swings and picnic tables in its fenced yard, and there is another outdoor restaurant opening in Ocoee in early 2025 dubbed The Backyard that’s following the same trend.

The Yardery is located at 221 N. Baker Street between the municipal parking lot and the downtown parking garage. Its popular Sanford location opened in 2022. If all goes smoothly, the new pet-friendly Mount Dora location will open this month. A third location is expected to open in New Smyrna Beach later this year.

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, this month, click here. Discover the area's online entertainment calendar here. Also download the area's free mobile app.

Big Lots to close all stores amid financial woes

1/1/2025

Big Lots, the discount retailer with a location in Eustis, announced last month that it will cease operations and close all of its stores across the country. The store is known for its cheap prices and wide selection of home goods, electronics, furniture, and everyday essentials.

According to the company, “going out of business” sales began immediately at all locations to “protect the value of its estate,” according to the company’s press release. Customers can take advantage of steep discounts as inventory is cleared out.

"We all have worked extremely hard and have taken every step to complete a going concern sale. While we remain hopeful that we can close an alternative going concern transaction, in order to protect the value of the Big Lots estate, we have made the difficult decision to begin the GOB process," Big Lots President and CEO Thorn said in the company’s press release.

The decision follows years of declining sales, increased competition, and challenges stemming from the shift toward online shopping. The company, headquartered in Columbus, Ohio, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in September. Previously, it had operated more than 1,400 stores nationwide. Big Lots has pledged to provide severance packages and career support services to affected employees.

The company, which initially rose to prominence as a closeout retailer, struggled to adapt to changing consumer habits. Competition from online retailers like Amazon and big-box chains such as Walmart and Target reportedly eroded its market share.
Big Lots is another sign of the challenges facing traditional brick-and-mortar retailers in a rapidly evolving industry. “This is part of a broader trend where mid-tier retailers are struggling to compete,” said Mark Edwards, a retail consultant. “Consumers are shifting their spending habits, and companies that can’t adapt quickly are being left behind.”

The closure marks the end of a retail brand that has been a fixture in American shopping plazas for decades. Founded in 1967 as Consolidated Stores Corporation, the company rebranded as Big Lots in 2001 and became known for offering name-brand products at heavily discounted prices. The Eustis store is located at 405 Plaza Drive in Eustis

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, visit the area's website and download the area's free mobile app.  Be sure to follow Mount Dora Buzz's Instagram and Facebook page for more local info.

New boba tea shop opens in Mount Dora

10/1/2024

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Last month a new spot opened in northeast Mount Dora that whips up a big selection of specialty tea drinks, as well as freshly brewed teas. From fresh fruit teas, earthy matcha, and refreshing slushies to creamy milk teas, rich taro, and creme brulee boba teas, Fortune Tea offers everyone’s Asian tea favorites. Coffee enthusiasts can enjoy the fresh and robust Vietnamese coffee.

Boba tea, originally created in Taiwan in the mid-1980s, is a sweet, frothy, cold drink made with tea, sweetened milk and “pearls” made from ingredients like tapioca and fruit jelly. Sometimes call bubble tea, there are actually no bubbles in the popular Asian beverage.

The new shop, located next to Saigon Fusion restaurant, also provides decadent toppings, including the popular cheese foam and creme brulee options, as well as egg pudding and various jellies. Boba options range from black tapioca pearls and crystal boba to fruit flavors of popping boba. Customers can also choose from whole milk or non-dairy alternatives.

Most prices for speciality drinks range from $5.75 for medium and $7.75 for large.

One of the best sellers is its Strawberry Yakult made with fresh fruit, tea and Japanese Yakult probiotics. Fortune Tea also has a dessert case stocked with cakes, as well as pre-packaged Asian snacks on the counter.

The friendly owner, Kate Ung, is on hand to greet customers and assist them if they need recommendations. Fortune Tea is open seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and until 8:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. It’s located at 16700 U.S. Highway 441.

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, visit the area's website and download the area's free mobile app. Be sure to follow Mount Dora Buzz's Instagram and Facebook page for more local info.

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Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month at local eateries

10/1/2024

ABOVE: Fogon Tapacita at La Perla Mexican Restaurant in Eustis (Mount Dora Buzz photo)

From street tacos and fresh margaritas to mofongo, Cuban sandwiches and minty mojitos, the Golden Triangle area has its share of diverse Hispanic cuisine to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, happening now.

Here’s the list of go-to places to taste all of the bold Latino flavors in our area.

Copacabana Cuban Cafe
320 Dora Drawdy Way, downtown Mount Dora
Vibe: Casual Cuban with patio dining
Recommendations: Pechuga a la plancha, bistec palomilla, arroz con pollo, mojitos, live music

Eduardo's Lokos Tacos Mexican Restaurant
226 Alfred Street, Tavares
Vibe: Casual Mexican
Recommendations: Lokos tacos, tableside guacamole, enchiladas, shrimp tacos, and margaritas

El Mezcal Mexican Restaurant
18750 U.S. Highway 441, Mount Dora
Vibe: Casual Tex-Mex with outdoors dining
Recommendations: Molcajeta (for two), arroz con mariscos, enchiladas chipotle, pollo ranchero, seafood cocktail, tableside guacamole, mango margarita

Fiesta Grande Mexican Grill
421 Baker Street, downtown Mount Dora
Vibe: Casual Tex-Mex with outdoor dining
Recommendations: The sizzling chicken or steak fajitas, molcajeta, margaritas, happy hour

Las Palmas Cuban Restaurant
351 N. Donnelly Street, downtown Mount Dora
Vibe: Casual and tropical with outdoor dining
Recommendations: Vaca frita, pernil, churrasco steak, pechuga a la parilla, Cuban sandwich, whole snapper, mojitos, house-made sangria

La Perla Tapatia
2060 S. Bay Street, Eustis
Vibe: Authentic and modern Mexican with outdoor dining
Recommendations: Fagon tapatia, torta Ahogada, birria tacos, chicken or steak fajitas, grilled octopus, fish and shrimp tacos, spicy margaritas

Los Compadres
2741 W Old U.S. Highway 441, Mount Dora
Vibe: Authentic Mexican market with street food and Mexican comfort food
Recommendations: Enchiladas, burritos and birria tacos

Melo Colombian Stuff Arepas
334 N. Donnelly Street, Mount Dora
(inside Mount Dora Marketplace, Mount Dora
Vibe: Walk-up counter
Recommendations: Sweet corn cheese arepa, Colombian burger

San Jose’s Original Mexican Restaurant
1990 State Road 19, Tavares
Vibe: Very casual
Recommendations: Nachos, quesadillas, naked California burrito, house-made sangria, flan

Sol de Mexico
125 N. Bay Street, Eustis
Vibe: Casual Tex-Mex
Recommendations: Fish tacos, tamales, chalupa, shrimp fajitas, margaritas

Taco Time
15200 Old Highway 441, Tavares
Vibe: Very casual taqueria
Recommendations: Quesabirras, carne asada and al pastor tacos, aqua frescas

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, visit the area's website and download the area's free mobile app. Be sure to follow Mount Dora Buzz's Instagram and Facebook page for more local info.

The Best Central Florida Farmers Markets

8/27/2024

Award-winning Winter Garden Farmers Market (Mount Dora Buzz photo)

It’s a form of retail therapy unlike any other. Whether in Central Florida’s larger cities or quaint small towns, the area’s farmers markets are always hopping with activity and attracting residents with their bounty of fresh, locally-grown produce and their unique sense of community.
From early morning to mid-afternoon, shoppers meander through rows of colorful tents offering fresh artisan breads, meats, ethnic foods, fresh smoothies, local honey, spice blends, rare plants and handcrafted goods. Many of the markets also feature live entertainment and fun activities for kids.
Here’s a list of the top Central Florida weekly Farmers Markets with the best vendors and vibes:

wednesdays:

Volusia County Farmers Market
3090 E. New York Avenue, DeLand
7 a.m. - noon
Market size: large

thursdays:

Lake County Farmers Market (Eustis)
Lake County Fairgrounds
2101 N. State Road 452, Eustis
8 a.m. - noon
Market size: large, significant produce vendors. a lot of resellers.

fridays:

DeLand Artisan Alley Farmers Market
Spread along Artisan Alley, downtown
6 p.m.-9 p.m. (night market)
Market size: moderate with creative vibe and no resellers. Limited produce.

Apopka Farmers Market (Market on 5th)
40 E. 5th Street, downtown
5 p.m.-10 p.m. (night market)
Market size: small with limited produce, but great vibe.

ABOVE: Early at the Friday Night Market in Apopka.

saturdays:

Winter Garden Farmers Market
Downtown Pavilion
104 S. Lakeview Avenue
8 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Market size: large and award-winning with significant produce vendors and family vibe.

Winter Park Farmers Market
Central Park West Meadow
(New York Avenue. & Morse Boulevard)
8 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Market size: large

Sanford Farmers Market
Magnolia Square, downtown
150 E. First Street
9 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Market size: moderate with limited produce vendors

Renningers Flea Market & Farmers Market
20651 U.S. Highway 441, Mount Dora
9 a.m. - 4 p.m. (Saturdays and Sundays)
Market size: large with resellers, and limited produce vendors

ABOVE: Winter Garden Farmers Market on Saturdays.

SUNDAYS:

Orlando Farmers Market
Lake Eola Park
Corner of E. Central Blvd and N. Eola Drive
10 a.m.- 3 p.m.
Market size: large and a foodie favorite.

Mount Dora Village Market
Sunset Park
Alexander Street & 4th Avenue
9 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Market size: moderate with resellers, and limited produce vendors

Clermont Farmers Market
691 W. Montrose Street
9 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Market size: moderate with limited produce vendors

Maitland Farmers Market
Independent Lane
9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Market size: moderate

Renningers Flea Market & Farmers Market
20651 U.S. Highway 441, Mount Dora
9 a.m. - 4 p.m. (Saturdays and Sundays)
Market size: large with resellers, and limited produce vendors

If you know of another great weekly farmers market in Central Florida, email Mount Dora Buzz with details.

ABOVE: Mount Dora Village Market on Sundays.

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, visit Mount Dora Buzz's website, its Instagram and Facebook page. Download the area's free mobile app for info on the go. For local food recommendations, follow Mount Dora Foodie's Facebook and its official Instagram account.

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