Stories, Spots & Sizzle from the Heart of Ocala 
For the week Of March 27, 2026

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This week, I’m diving into one of Marion County’s most hotly debated favorites—pizza! In Slice of the Sizzle: Ocala’s Pizza Showdown, I explore everything from foldable New York-style slices to artisan brick-fired creations, highlighting some of the most loved spots across Ocala and The Villages. Whether you’re planning a family night, a downtown date, or just chasing that late-night craving, I’ll help you find your next great slice. One thing’s for sure—there may not be one “best” pizza, but our local scene definitely knows how to deliver.

Extra Tidbits from Wendell

Brooklyn’s Backyard (Ocala)

What to Expect: Authentic New York–style pizza with that perfect fold, generous toppings, and a neighborhood pizzeria atmosphere.
Vibe: Casual, family-friendly, sports-on-TV energy with classic pizza-shop charm.
The Sizzle Favorite: White pizza with ricotta and mozzarella — creamy, cheesy perfection.
Website: https://www.brooklynsbackyard.com
Address: 5400 SW College Rd Suite 105, Ocala, FL 34474

Formaggio Pizza & Italian Restaurant (Ocala)

What to Expect: Traditional Italian-style pizzas with balanced sauce and perfectly textured crust.
Vibe: Warm, welcoming, “Sunday dinner” comfort — even on a weeknight.
The Sizzle Favorite: Classic pepperoni pie or the signature Formaggio pizza.
Website: https://www.formaggiopizzaocala.com
Address: 3430 SW College Rd #101, Ocala, FL 34474

Pi on Broadway (Ocala)

What to Expect: Artisan-style pizzas with bold flavor combinations and blistered crust.
Vibe: Downtown chic with creative energy — great before events or a night out.
The Sizzle Favorite: Margherita pizza — simple, fresh, and perfectly executed.
Website: https://www.pionbroadway.com
Address: 110 SW Broadway St, Ocala, FL 34471

Flippers Pizzeria – The Villages

What to Expect: Brick-fired pizza with fresh ingredients and a light, slightly charred crust.
Vibe: Casual, lively, and consistently packed for dinner.
The Sizzle Favorite: Fresh mozzarella and basil brick-fired pie.
Website: https://flipperspizzeria.com/locations/the-villages/
Address: 2598 Burnsed Blvd, The Villages, FL 32163

Sammy Joe’s Pizzeria Café (Belleview)

What to Expect: Big, bold New York–style pies built for sharing.
Vibe: Local hangout where regulars are greeted by name.
The Sizzle Favorite: Buffalo chicken pizza and legendary garlic knots.
Website: https://sammyjoespizzeria.com
Address: 9668 SE 58th Ave, Belleview, FL 34420

Five Star Pizza (Ocala)

What to Expect: Reliable, crowd-pleasing specialty pizzas with strong delivery presence.
Vibe: Game-night dependable and perfect for feeding a crowd.
The Sizzle Favorite: The Five Star specialty pizza or loaded veggie options.
Website: https://www.fivestarpizza.com/ocala-fl/
Address: 11100 SW 93rd Ct Rd #10, Ocala, FL 34481

Milano Italian Grille (Ocala)

What to Expect: Traditional Italian-style pizzas served in a full-service dining setting.
Vibe: Elevated sit-down experience with wine and appetizers available.
The Sizzle Favorite: Traditional Italian-style crust with classic topping combinations.
Website: https://www.milanoitaliangrille.com
Address: 5400 SW College Rd #207, Ocala, FL 34474

Did you know Crystal River is the only place in the United States where you can legally swim with manatees?  Each winter, hundreds of manatees gather in the warm spring waters there.

If you enjoy discovering great restaurants, local events, and hidden gems around Ocala and Central Florida, be sure to share the Ocala Sizzle Newsletter with a friend.

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Mar 27 – World Theatre Day

Mar 28 – Barnum & Bailey Day

Mar 29 – Mom & Pop Business Owners Day

Mar 30 – World Bipolar Day

Mar 31 – Tater Day

Apr 1 – April Fools’ Day

Apr 2 – Peanut Butter and Jelly Day

March 29, 1935 – Florida’s Horse Industry Expands

By the 1930s, horse farms around Ocala were gaining national attention. Wealthy breeders began relocating their operations to Marion County. The region’s natural environment proved ideal for raising champion horses.

🎭 Levitt AMP Ocala Music Series — Webb Field

📅 Friday, March 27
🕒 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
📍 Ocala, FL
🎟️ Free
📄 Kick off the weekend with a free outdoor concert featuring live music, food trucks, and a family-friendly atmosphere in the heart of Ocala.

🎨 First Friday Art Walk

📅 Friday, March 27
🕒 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
📍 Downtown Ocala, FL
🎟️ Free
📄 Explore local artists, live performances, and pop-up vendors throughout downtown in this monthly celebration of creativity.

🍓 Ocala Downtown Market

📅 Saturday, March 28
🕒 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
📍 Ocala Downtown Market
🎟️ Free
📄 Fresh produce, handmade goods, local food vendors, and live entertainment make this a must-stop Saturday tradition.

🛍️ Ocala Spring Craft Show

📅 Sunday, March 29
🕒 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
📍 Circle Square Commons
🎟️ Free
📄 Browse handmade crafts, seasonal décor, and unique gifts from local artisans.

🎥 Movie Night in the Park

📅 Monday, March 30
🕒 7:30 PM
📍 Webb Field
🎟️ Free
📄 Bring a blanket and enjoy a family-friendly movie under the stars.

🎶 Open Mic Night

📅 Tuesday, March 31
🕒 7:00 PM
📍 Mutiny Ocala
🎟️ Free
📄 Local talent takes the stage—music, comedy, and spoken word in a laid-back setting.

🚗 Crystal River – Manatee Capital of the World
Crystal River is one of Florida’s best places to experience nature up close. During the winter months, hundreds of manatees gather in the warm spring waters of Kings Bay. Visitors can kayak the clear waterways, walk the boardwalk at Three Sisters Springs, or explore the charming coastal town. It’s a peaceful destination full of wildlife and natural beauty — and that's this week's one tank trip.