OCALA, FL (352today.com) – A new major dining and entertainment destination called The Forge is slated to open this winter in Ocala’s Midtown District, transforming the former WMOP radio building into a multi-venue community hub.
Located at 343 NE 1st Ave., the project is led by Midtown Eateries, LLC, a local group of restauranteurs behind several established Ocala restaurants such as Horse & Hounds and The Crazy Cucumber. Once completed, the property will span nearly three acres and incorporate both the historic WMOP building and an adjacent structure, blending preserved architectural details with modern design.
Developers say the goal is to create a walkable, immersive space where guests can move freely between multiple restaurants, bars and outdoor areas. The property will include a mix of full-service dining, quick-service kiosks and shared socials spaces designed for year-round events and gatherings.
Among the concepts planned for the site are:
The Blind Eye
A two-story 1920s-style speakeasy offering Southern-inspired fare and a whiskey-focused bar program…