NEW MOUNT DORA MARKETPLACE MAKES PROGRESS

ABOVE: New front door being added to 334 N. Donnelly Building. (Photo by Mount Dora Buzz)

Steady progress is being made on what may become downtown Mount Dora’s newest attraction.  Mount Dora Marketplace, a community market with diverse vendors, will be the result of a transformational build-out of two adjacent buildings on Donnelly Street.  The combined space is accommodating 37 confirmed businesses, including the anchor tenant, Wolf Branch Brewing, in the downstairs bar space. The target opening of the market is now early October, a few months later than originally planned.   

The common areas of the Marketplace are designed with creatively repurposed items, including tin from a centuries-old barn and Edison bulbs, to create a warm, rustic vibe.  The interior configuration of the old Lost Parrot building has been completely transformed into a more open space with separate areas for each food vendor. The floorplan of the old Every Nook & Cranny building (334 N. Donnelly Street) has remained very similar to its previous incarnation of small spaces in a maze-like floorplan, but the 4,440 square-foot, one-story building now features a neutral interior palette in the common areas that visually connect it to the  two-story building of the marketplace.   

The individual businesses are creating their own build-outs, so each will have its own unique appeal, according to Dawn Williams, the project’s leasing agent.                  

In addition to the interior renovations, Mount Dora Marketplace will also feature significant exterior improvements, which include a new entrance on Donnelly Street.  The small alley between the two buildings will be converted into a garden dining area, and new outdoor seating will be added along the Donnelly sidewalk by this Christmas, according to Williams.                                

The varied businesses include 10 sweet and savory food vendors that range from French crepes and charcuterie platters to Keto and vegetarian options, as well as fresh baked goods and other treats.  

ABOVE: 4th Avenue entrance to Mount Dora Marketplace. (Photo by Mount Dora Buzz)

Downtown Mount Dora’s established Olive Branch Mediterranean Grill will be launching two businesses inside the Marketplace.  Its new Mediterranean Kitchen will offer build-your-own fresh Greek gyros, salads and bowls. Their second and adjacent space, Coffee Kitchen, will feature various coffee drinks using Trilogy Coffee beans. 

The 25 confirmed individual retailers range from handmade jewelry, orchids, plants, boutique wines, handmade primitive folk art and French products to home fragrances, an apothecary vendor and a makeup  company.  
.
Mount Dora Marketplace is located at 334 N. Donnelly Street in downtown.  Follow Mount Dora Buzz's Facebook page for updates on the Marketplace and scoop on new restaurants and stores in the area.  For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, this month, click here.  Also download the area's free mobile app.  ​​​

---