WMOP Building in The WMOP Building in downtown Ocala is being transformed into The Forge. Ocala
The WMOP Building in downtown Ocala is being transformed into The Forge. (Staff photo)
WMOP Building in The WMOP Building in downtown Ocala is being transformed into The Forge. Ocala
The WMOP Building in downtown Ocala is being transformed into The Forge. (Staff photo)

Crews are making brisk progress on a new, modern dining concept under construction near downtown Ocala that will feature a 1920s speakeasy, Asian fusion restaurant, Mediterranean tapas spot, and craft brewery when it opens later this year.

Construction crews have been working on The Forge for several months at 343 NE 1st Avenue, just a few blocks from the Historic Downtown Ocala Square. The new restaurant concept is taking over the former WMOP radio building in Ocala’s Midtown District.

WMOP Building in downtown Ocala is under construction
Multiple restaurants will occupy The Forge. (Staff photo)

The project is owned by Midtown Eateries, LLC, a company registered to Carlos Sanchez and Francis Wendell Landry, whose other Ocala restaurants include Horse & Hounds and The Crazy Cucumber.

The Forge is billed as a “modern and diverse concept space” that will offer open dining and a brewery amidst several restaurants.

“Our concept space is designed to provide a unique and vibrant dining experience for our guests,” reads a statement from the company’s website.

A rendering of The Forge, which hopes to open in Ocala later this year. (Photo: The Forge)
A rendering of The Forge, which hopes to open in Ocala later this year. (Photo: The Forge)

The business has announced details for at least three of the restaurants that will be featured at the site:

  • Blind Eye, a 1920s speakeasy that will transport “guests to an era of clandestine gatherings and Prohibition-era charm.” In addition to spirits, Blind Eye will also showcase various Southern dishes.
  • Ignite Asian Fusion is described as an Asian fusion restaurant with an “innovative blend of traditional Asian flavors and contemporary twists.” The restaurant will serve up sushi rolls and stir-fries, and will transport diners to the “heart of Asia’s culinary landscape.”
  • The Hammock will serve a variety of tapas and Mediterranean small plates. The restaurant will offer craft cocktails and a “culinary voyage inspired by the sun-drenched shores and vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean.”

“At The Forge, we’re all about celebrating food as an art form. Our chefs work their magic just like blacksmiths, turning top-notch ingredients into mouthwatering dishes that’ll blow your mind,” reads a statement from the company’s website.

The Forge is planning to open later this fall, according to its website.