The Butcher’s Nook opens in Mount Dora to rave reviews

With the abundance of excellent eateries in downtown Mount Dora, there was still one conspicuous culinary void --- premium, mouth-watering deli sandwiches. That gap was officially filled last month with the opening of Butcher’s Nook Cuts & Deli Shop.

Located off a quaint walkway, the small space with its classic white subway-tiled walls offers a menu of 10 specialty sandwiches crafted for those craving something more than the everyday.  The personal favorite of the owner, Mario Penaherrera,  is the Italian Americano, loaded with a premium selection of imported Italian meats ($15.90).  On recent visits to The Butcher’s Nook, Mount Dora Buzz fell in love with the Caprese on fresh ciabatta ($13.90), The Downtown, an impressive take on a classic Reuben ($14.90), and The Nooky, which layers a generous portion of Prosciutto di Parma with burrata cheese, fig jam, arugula, extra virgin olive oil, and balsamic glaze.  

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The fresh breads for the sandwiches include perfectly baked ciabatta, focaccia and sub rolls. A gluten-free option will be added to the mix, as soon as the perfect variety is discovered. As a nod to old-school butcher shops and delis, the made-to-order sandwiches are wrapped in classic white butcher paper, perfect for on-the-go or for enjoying at one of their indoor or outdoor tables. 

The friendly owner is a very familiar face downtown. Penaherrera was previously a co-owner of Frog and Monkey Pub, as well as Funky Monkey Gastrobar.  That experience familiarized him with local tastes and honed his skills as a restaurateur.  Prior to moving to Mount Dora five years ago, Penaherrera was the executive chef for the Miami Dolphins organization for eight seasons.  For his new venture, the local entrepreneur enlisted the help of 29-year veteran chef Joey Cusmano, whose sophisticated culinary palate and impressive experience added to the quality and flavor of the offerings at The Butcher’s Nook.

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“The inspiration to open a deli stemmed from my passion for high-quality, premium meats and a desire to bring a unique culinary experience  to our community,” said Penaherrera.  “Recognizing the demand for premium deli offerings and a genuine  connection with customers, the vision for Butcher’s Nook was born.”

Sandwiches aren’t the only high quality offerings at the Butcher’s Nook. They also sell select premium meats like filet mignon, Wagyu cuts, ribeye steaks and thick-cut pork chops. In the coming weeks, Penaherrera plans to offer a catering menu, as well as local delivery.  

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Penaherrera isn’t the only one in his family with a small business that adds to the uniqueness of Mount Dora.  His wife, Maria, owns Roots and Flora, the mobile flower and plant shop that operates from a vintage turquoise VW truck.  In addition to farmers markets and street fairs, Roots and Flora also does weddings and private events.

The Butcher’s Nook is located at 237 W. 4th Avenue in downtown Mount Dora, next to Maggie’s Attic. 

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