Stories, Spots & Sizzle from the Heart of Ocala 
For the week Of October 17, 2025

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This week on The Ocala Sizzle Podcast, we took a sunrise tour of Ocala and The Villages’ most beloved breakfast and brunch spots—those hidden gems that make mornings worth waking up for. From the nostalgic charm of Silver Springs Diner to the cozy creativity of Chelsea Coffee Company, and the heartwarming hospitality at Bagelicious, every stop served up a taste of local pride. We also dropped by  The Gathering Café downtown, where faith and flavor meet, grabbed a hearty plate at Breakfast Station, and wrapped up with  The Toasted Yolk Café proving that comfort food and community go hand in hand. If you love breakfast that feels like home, this episode was made for you.

Get this weeks Ocala Sizzle Podcast Show Notes

Bonus Bites with Kevin

•         Silver Springs Diner (Ocala)

What to Expect: Though closed in early 2025, this nostalgic diner still lives on in memory. Known for buttermilk pancakes, cinnamon-roll French toast, and “Bobbi’s Way” tater tots topped with bacon and cheese.

Vibe: Classic ‘50s nostalgia with a local cult following.

Kevin’s Pick: Cinnamon-roll French toast — indulgence on a plate.

Bonus Bite: Silver Springs Diner may be gone, but its legendary pancakes remain part of Ocala’s breakfast lore.

•         Chelsea Coffee Company (Ocala)

What to Expect: Fresh-baked scones, bagel sandwiches, apple turnovers, and rich artisan coffee served in a sunny café.

Vibe: Bright, creative, and community-driven.

Kevin’s Pick: Bagel breakfast sandwich — hearty, balanced, and always satisfying.

Website: chelseacoffeeco.com

Address: 3217 E Silver Springs Blvd, Ocala, FL 34470

Bonus Bite: Chelsea Coffee Company’s bagel sandwich and apple turnover have become true Ocala breakfast staples.

•         Bagelicious Deli & Bakery (Ocala)

What to Expect: Fresh, hand-rolled bagels, hearty sandwiches, and friendly service that makes every visit feel personal.

Vibe: Family-owned with a loyal local following.

Kevin’s Pick: Everything bagel breakfast sandwich — a simple classic done perfectly.

Website: bageliciousocala.com

Address: 1121 S Pine Ave, Ocala, FL 34471

Bonus Bite: Bagelicious offers a loyalty program for regulars — because one visit is never enough.

•         The Gathering Café (Ocala)

What to Expect: Downtown charm with vegan and gluten-free options, fresh smoothies, and the famous “nested eggs.”

Vibe: Cozy and uplifting — with “scripture on the cups” and smiles behind the counter.

Kevin’s Pick: Vegan Nest — light, flavorful, and satisfying.

Website: thegatheringocala.com

Address: 1111 NE 8th Ave, Ocala, FL 34470

Bonus Bite: The Gathering Café’s vegan nest and gluten-free muffins are both fan favorites for a reason.

•         Breakfast Station (Ocala)

What to Expect: A homestyle breakfast spot with hearty portions and signature potato pancake “Tracks.”

Vibe: Friendly roadside diner atmosphere.

Kevin’s Pick: Eggs Benedict on potato pancakes — comfort food at its best.

Website: breakfaststationrestaurants.com

Address: 7945 SW Hwy 200, Ocala, FL 34476

Bonus Bite: Breakfast Station’s “Tracks” redefine what breakfast potatoes can be.

•         The Toasted Yolk Café (The Villages)

What to Expect: Lively brunch café offering fluffy pancakes, classic eggs Benedict, and endless coffee refills.

Vibe: Bright, bustling, and cheerful.

Kevin’s Pick: Classic Eggs Benedict — rich hollandaise, perfectly poached eggs, and a smile with every pour.

Website: thetoastedyolk.com

Address: 250 Colony Blvd, The Villages, FL 32162

Bonus Bite: The Toasted Yolk’s hollandaise sauce deserves its own round of applause.

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On October 2, Osceola Middle School (originally Ocala High School) celebrated its centennial anniversary in a spirited event that drew current and former students and staff, local residents, and dignitaries. 

Highlights of the celebration included:

• A recreated 1920s classroom led by a historical reenactor portraying “Mrs. Collins,” giving attendees a glimpse into early 20th-century instruction

• Speeches and recognitions honoring the school’s legacy and its impact on generations of learners 

• Opportunities for reunion and reflection as alumni and community members gathered to share memories and connect across eras 

The centennial event underscored the school’s deep roots in the community and its continuing role as a cornerstone of local education.

The Marion Cultural Alliance is hosting its hauntingly elegant “Ghouls for Good” masquerade on October 30 at the Brick City Center for the Arts. Guests will step into a dreamlike world of art, music, and eerie elegance — all to benefit the LILAC Foundation’s Arts in Health Ocala Metro, which brings creativity and comfort to hospitals, schools, and senior centers. Expect costumes, cocktails, and a cause that proves the healing power of art.

This October, the Historic Ocala Preservation Society invites you to uncover the eerie legends and true tales hidden within the brick-lined streets of downtown Ocala. The Historic Ocala Walking Ghost Tour blends storytelling and history into a guided evening stroll through some of the city’s most storied—and possibly haunted—landmarks.

Held on October 18 and October 25 from 6:30 to 8:00 PM, the tour offers a spine-tingling look into Ocala’s past, sharing ghostly encounters, tragic tales, and unexplained mysteries that still echo through the night. Each step immerses you in the charm and mystery of Old Ocala, where flickering lanterns light the path through history’s darker corners.

Whether you’re a believer in the supernatural or simply love local lore, this limited-run event is a must-see fall tradition. Proceeds benefit the Historic Ocala Preservation Society and its mission to protect Ocala’s heritage. Tickets and details are available at historicocala.org

17th - Wear Something Gaudy Day
18th - Chocolate Cupcake Day
19th - Evaluate Your Life Day
20th - International Chef's Day
21st - Reptile Awareness Day
22nd - INTERNATIONAL CAPS LOCK DAY
23rd - TV Talk Show Host Day (Johnny Carson's Birthday)

This Week In Ocala History

October 17, 1891 – The first passenger train arrived in Ocala, bringing visitors who would soon discover the city’s now-famous Southern hospitality — and maybe even its first cup of diner coffee.

Explore the Santos Mountain Bike Trail for a thrilling adventure through Florida's scenic nature!

Just be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen for a day of fun in the sun.

Browns Adventure Farm - FIVE WEEKS OF FALL
Harvest Celebration

📅 Date: Saturday/Sunday, October 18th&19th

🕒 Time: Sat 10am-8pm  Sun  11am-6pm

📍 Location: Browns Adventure Farm; 13940 US-301, OXFORD FL, 34484
🎟️ Admission: $17.95 online special  $21.95 at gate

📄 Details:  

•  7-Acre Corn Maze
•  Barnyard Animals
•  Over 30 Attractions
•  Free Fireworks – October 4, 11, & 25
•  Legacy of the Wild West Shows (SAT 11-1-3-5)  (SUN 12-2-4)
•  Candy Cannon Blasts (select times)
•  Face Painting (select times)

“Steve Solomon – My Mother’s Italian, My Father’s Jewish & I’m Still in Therapy” (Comedy/Impersonation)

📅 Date: Thursday, October 23, 2025

🕒 Time: 7:00 pm

📍 Location: Circle Square Cultural Center, 8395 SW 80th St, Ocala, FL

🎟️ Admission: (check theater site)

📄 Details: A one-night show featuring Steve Solomon’s comedic impersonations and voice work.

Properties of The Villages Polo Tournament

📅 Dates: October 17 & 19, 2025

🕒 Time: (check polo club schedule)

📍 Location: The Villages Polo Club (nearby / Central Florida area) 

🎟️ Admission: $20 (kids 12 & under free) per spectator at gate

📄 Details: One of the fall polo tournaments held in the area.

Candlelight: Featuring Vivaldi’s Four Seasons & More

📅 Date: Friday, October 17, 2025

🕒 Time: 6:30 pm

📍 Location: Harbor Hills Country Club (in The Villages area)

🎟️ Admission: Starting around $44

📄 Details: A candlelight concert featuring classical pieces including “The Four Seasons,” with atmospheric lighting.

Studio 77 (Disco Night) – The Villages

📅 Date: Thursday, October 23, 2025

🕒 Time: 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm

📍 Location: Spanish Springs Town Square

🎟️ Admission: (check site)

📄 Details: Disco-themed evening with music, dancing, and fun at Spanish Springs.

Live Music / Acoustic Sets at Edna’s (Villages area)

📅 Dates: October 20–23, 2025

🕒 Times: Various (for example, Thursday Oct 23, 12‑3 pm & 4‑7 pm) 

📍 Location: Edna’s (villages area)

🎟️ Admission: (likely free / cover varies)

📄 Details: Local acoustic acts and live music during lunch and evening hours.

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With deep local roots and a commitment to client satisfaction, RE/MAX Premier Realty is more than a real estate office—it’s your trusted partner in every step of the journey. Visit premier-realty-downtown-ocala-fl.remax.com to connect with an agent today.

One great secret hack for The Villages is to take advantage of the numerous free community events and activities.

This includes live music performances, dance nights, movie screenings, and fitness classes.

It's a great way to meet new people and have fun without spending a lot of money.

Why did the scarecrow win an award in Ocala?

Because he was outstanding in his field!