Recently released video of a new dining concept in Ocala’s Midtown District shows that construction is nearing completion on the structure, which will feature restaurants, a brewery, a nightclub, and an open dining plan.
The Forge, which is owned by Joel and Sheila Gibson, is nearing completion on its 46,775-square-foot space. The new business replaces the former WMOP radio building at 343 NE 1st Avenue.
Ocala-News.com first reported news of The Forge in August 2024. At the time, the site was projected to open later that year. In September 2024, the group received approval from the city to sell alcohol on its premises.
Since then, the Gibsons and their team have made extensive renovations at the new “modern and diverse concept space,” which will feature an open dining plan, several restaurants, a brewery, a nightclub, and an event venue.
To date, three restaurants have been announced at the new site:
- Blind Eye – A two-story 1920s speakeasy offering Southern-inspired fare and a whiskey-focused bar program.
- Ignite – An Asian-fusion restaurant featuring sushi and contemporary dishes.
- The Hammock – A Mediterranean-style tapas bar emphasizing shareable plates.
The newly released video shows a fourth business, Just Desserts, is also slated to open its doors within the structure. That business will serve ice cream and sweet treats.
City records show the new building will feature over 650 seats in its dining space and over 300 parking spaces, with hours of operation planned from 9 a.m. to 2 a.m.
Last December, Ocala Main Street shared a similar video of the new site. At the time, it was reported that the new structure would be opening this spring.
When The Forge opens its doors, it will be situated just a couple of blocks away from Midtown Station, a similar dining concept that opened in late 2024.
Over the past few months, the Paddock Market has been celebrating the opening of its new artisan market at the site of the former Sears in Paddock Mall. That marketplace features a variety of vendors and restaurants.
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