Lake County: Here's who's serving dinner on Thanksgiving Day
Thanksgiving, a day of gatherings, can be difficult for those among us who don't have anywhere to go, family to visit or an invitation to a friend's home.
Fortunately, local nonprofits and churches are serving meals for people in need, dished by friendly souls who offer a smile and, when possible, an understanding ear.
There are also plenty of restaurants besides the usual chains.
Here's a list of places serving food and cheer on Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 23; some at a cost, some for free.
Chop House at Lake Sumter Landing
If you're in the mood for dinner with a stroll in a scenic spot, head to Lake Sumter Landing for Thanksgiving dinner. A Thanksgiving prix fixe meal of turkey, mild sausage stuffing with spinach, green bean casserole, garlic-whipped potatoes and gravy and the Chop House's regular menu items will be served all day, must be reserved in advance. 1045 Old Camp Road, The Villages. Call 352-750-6000.
Florida Citrus Tower
Veterans, first responders, and those in need are invited to partake in Simchat Torah Beit Midrash's free annual Thanksgiving Day feast at the Citrus Tower in Clermont. Organizers say that it will be a "Thanksgiving Day feast, prepared by our five star chefs and assisted by a team of volunteers." Begins at 11 a.m. Details: 352-989-5847.
Lake Commissary Kitchen
Lake Commissary Kitchen will be serving a free hot Thanksgiving Dinner at Lake Commissary Kitchen in downtown Eustis from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day. All are invited to come by for a free meal or come by and take a meal to deliver to someone in need. 50 W. Orange Ave., Eustis. lakecommissarykitchen.com.
Feed the Soul
Feed the Soul, a nonprofit committed to providing hot holiday meals to the lonely and less fortunate, will dish out a free heart meal at 1 p.m. at Life Community Church, 2910 Dillard Road, Eustis. Details: 352-217-1756.
Lakeside Inn
Mount Dora's Lakeside Inn provides a scenic backdrop while dining with family and friends. This homey, elegant and historic Inn is a local favorite on Thanksgiving and will be serving a four-course meal from noon to 3:45 p.m for $75 plus 20% service surcharge. Served indoors and outdoors at Beauclaire's and Tremains on the property at 100 N. Alexander St., Mount Dora. Reservations required; call 352-383-4101.
Magical Meat Boutique
Magical Meat Boutique, Mount Dora's British mainstay will go from colonial to pilgrim with a turkey carvery for $25 or add Prime Rib for $36. Sides will include duck fat roasted potatoes, maple bacon brussels sprouts, cauliflower cheddar, honey roasted parsnips, Yorkshire pudding, paxo stuffing and gravy. Please call for reservations. The pub and grill is located at 322 Alexander St., Mount Dora. Call for reservations: 352-729-6911.
More: Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade 2023: How to watch, Florida ties, what to know before Thursday
McCracken's Irish Pub
McCracken's Irish Pub will be open on Thanksgiving night with a limited "bar snack" menu from 6 p.m. to midnight. While it might not be turkey and all the trimmings, McCracken's is a great spot to gather with others or alone. Their friendly servers should help cure your holiday blues. 719 W. Main St, Leesburg. mccrackenspub.com.
Rose Plantation
If you're in the mood for a splurge, the Rose Plantation Restaurant is accepting reservations for its annual Thanksgiving Day dinner, serving from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Repurposed from a century-old home, the restaurant is nestled in a four-acre Old Florida landscape once owned by the Dwight family of Massachusetts, located along the banks of Fountain Lake at 200 Rose Ave. Check out their menu at theroseplantation.com/events. Call 352-805-4340 to make a reservation.
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This article originally appeared on Daily Commercial: Who's open or serving a free meal on Thanksgiving Day in Lake County?
