5 /5 Rachael Vargas: We are not from Ocala, we traveled from Lake Mary to check out a kayak and horseback riding tour over at Zip the Canyon which is about 15-20 min away from this spot. Our kayak tour guide, recommended we check out Ocala Square in between tours to grab lunch. A quick google search revealed Big Hammock Brewery & Bites as having one of the highest rates for reviews so we decided to check it out.
Don’t let the menu fool you- it might look simple from the way it’s printed but the flavor and quality is anything but. Our server recommended the scallion pancake with roast beef. Jaw dropping. It doesn’t even need the sauce, the cheese and the onion and the meat packed all the flavor I needed. The consistency of the scallion pancake, crispy, flaky and flavorful. I was hanging on every bite. I savored the taste in my mouth even after the meal was done. Not many menu items I can say have given me that experience but it was that good. My fiance ordered the rice bowl with chicken. He’s a big sauce guy and LOVED the sauce on this one. It hit. The chicken was juicy and not overcooked and he couldn’t get over how fresh the rice seemed. He’s not a veggie guy but he ate the peppers and some of the broccoli without complaint (he’s been trying to eat healthier which is why he left the dish as is) the bowl was basically inhaled.
He even tried some of my dish and was amazed in agreement at how good it was.
The vibe is lively. Service was great. We don’t drink so I can’t comment on the beverages. Super cute spot with a menu that is worth way more than the price. It was the perfect compliment to an already incredible day.
Thank you! If we are ever in Ocala again, we will not forget this place! Keep up the great work
