The Forge, a new dining concept that will offer a variety of restaurants and a brewery, is rapidly taking shape near downtown Ocala and should open this fall.
Located at 343 NE 1st Avenue in Ocala’s Midtown District, construction crews have been transforming the former WMOP radio building for months. The new facility is just a couple blocks from the Marion Hotel, which is also undergoing extensive renovations.
The Forge 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 business is billed as a “modern and diverse concept space” that will feature an open dining plan amidst the restaurants and brewery.
“Our concept space is designed to provide a unique and vibrant dining experience for our guests,” reads a statement from the company’s website.
At least three of the restaurants that will be featured at the site have been previously announced: Blind Eye, a 1920s speakeasy, Ignite Asian Fusion, and The Hammock, which will serve Mediterranean small plates.
“Our chefs work their magic just like blacksmiths, turning top-notch ingredients into mouthwatering dishes that’ll blow your mind. Step inside and feel the cozy vibes envelope you. We’ve created a chill yet classy atmosphere that’s perfect for an epic culinary adventure,” reads a statement from the company’s website. The facility is planning to open later this fall.
The opening of The Forge comes amidst two other similar concepts that are coming to Ocala.
The Paddock Market‘s new space at the Paddock Mall is expected to open on October 1, and Midtown Station, which will feature several food vendors, craft beers, and coffee, is nearly done with its new space across from Tuscawilla Park.
