Clermont Dining at a Glance
🍽️ Clermont Culinary Character: Clermont's dining scene blends historic downtown charm with lakefront elegance, featuring everything from award-winning farm-to-table bistros to casual waterfront tiki bars. The revitalized Historic Downtown Clermont, centered around Montrose Street, has emerged as a culinary destination with innovative food halls, craft breweries, and upscale dining that rivals much larger cities.
"Downtown Clermont is giving Orlando a run for its money with its vibrant dining scene—from lakefront tiki bars to sophisticated bourbon lounges, this charming city has become Central Florida's next great food destination."
Dining Highlights of Clermont
Clermont's culinary landscape has exploded in recent years, transforming from a quiet Lake County town into a foodie destination. The city's dining scene centers around Historic Downtown Clermont, where brick-lined streets and lakefront views create the perfect backdrop for memorable meals. From farm-to-table fine dining to casual waterfront spots where you can watch the sunset over Lake Minneola, Clermont offers a diverse and sophisticated food culture.
Historic Downtown & Montrose Street
The heart of Clermont's dining renaissance, featuring the innovative Montrose Street Market food hall, award-winning restaurants like Root & Branch and The Southern on 8th, craft breweries, and specialty bars. This walkable district has an open container policy, making evening strolls even more enjoyable.
Lake Minneola Waterfront
Dine with spectacular lake views at waterfront favorites like Salt Shack on the Lake and Lake Minneola Tiki Bar & Grill. These lakeside venues offer fresh seafood, tropical drinks, and some of the best sunset views in Central Florida, perfect for a relaxed evening by the water.
Craft Beer & Cocktail Scene
Clermont has become a craft beverage destination with multiple breweries including Clermont Brewing Company and Sun Creek Brewery, plus sophisticated cocktail lounges like The Roasted Spirit. Weekly trivia nights, live music, and beer gardens create a lively social atmosphere.
International Flavors
Experience authentic cuisines from around the world, including award-winning Indian fare at Guru Restaurant, traditional English breakfast at The Friar Tuck, Latin American favorites at El Cerro, and fresh sushi at the Montrose Street Market. Clermont's diverse dining options rival much larger cities.
Clermont Restaurant Map
Explore restaurants and dining options in Clermont using this interactive map:
↑ Back to TopRestaurants & Dining in Clermont
From award-winning fine dining to beloved neighborhood spots, Clermont's restaurant scene offers exceptional variety and quality that belies its small-town charm.
🍽️ Top 5 Must-Try Dining Spots
1Root & Branch Bistro + Bar
Farm-to-table excellence with multiple "Best of South Lake" awards. Chef-driven seasonal menu sourced within 200 miles, craft cocktails, and Sunday bottomless mimosa brunch. A sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere perfect for special occasions.
2Crafted Steakhouse
Clermont's premier steakhouse featuring expertly grilled steaks, fresh seafood, and innovative dishes. Elegant yet cozy ambiance with impeccable service. Known for beautifully presented dishes that taste as good as they look.
3The Southern on 8th
Southern hospitality meets Fresh Florida seafood with a New Orleans twist. Winner of Best of South Lake 2022. Everything is scratch-made, from Southern classics to killer happy hour and bourbon-focused craft cocktails in Historic Downtown.
4Salt Shack on the Lake
Breathtaking lakefront dining on Lake Minneola with wild-caught seafood, Caribbean-inspired vibes, and family fun. Fresh sustainable ingredients, homemade sauces, and spectacular sunset views make this a must-visit waterfront destination.
5Montrose Street Market
Innovative two-story food hall featuring 11+ independent vendors including Golden Hills Coffee Roasters, Brave Burger, Design Sushi, Poke Kai, and Sud's Saloon. Perfect when your group can't agree on one cuisine—try them all!
🌟 Fine Dining & Upscale
| Restaurant Name | Type | Location | Specialty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Root & Branch Bistro + Bar | Fine Dining | Clermont | Farm-to-table, award-winning cuisine, craft cocktails, seasonal menu, Sunday brunch |
| Crafted Steakhouse | Fine Dining | Clermont | Prime steaks, fresh seafood, innovative menu, elegant atmosphere |
| The Southern on 8th | Fine Dining | Historic Downtown | Southern contemporary, Florida seafood, New Orleans influence, bourbon bar |
🍔 Casual Dining & Family Restaurants
| Restaurant Name | Type | Location | Specialty |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Crooked Spoon | Casual | Clermont | Gastropub, craft beer, traditional fare with a twist, family-friendly |
| Miller's Ale House | Casual | US 27 & Hwy 50 | Sports bar, burgers, steaks, seafood, 60+ TVs, large portions |
| Brave Burger | Casual | Montrose Street Market | Handcrafted burgers, pulled pork, loaded fries, award-winning BBQ burger |
| The View at Clermont National | Casual | Clermont National Golf Course | Golf course dining, outdoor seating, sports viewing, driving range, live music |
☕ Cafes, Coffee & Breakfast
| Establishment Name | Type | Location | Specialty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Just Love Coffee Cafe | Cafe | Hwy 50 | Hand-roasted coffee, waffle-ironed menu, breakfast all day, live music |
| Keke's Breakfast Cafe | Cafe | South Highway 27 | America's best breakfast, farm-fresh pancakes, hearty omelets, signature sandwiches |
| Clermont Cafe | Cafe | Historic Downtown | Breakfast and lunch, homemade goodness, local favorite |
| Golden Hills Coffee Roasters | Cafe | Montrose Street Market | Hand-roasted coffee, espresso bar, wholesale roaster, coffee cocktails |
| Foxtail Coffee Co. | Cafe | Clermont | Seasonal draft cold brew, specialty lattes, local favorite |
🍺 Bars, Breweries & Nightlife
| Establishment Name | Type | Location | Specialty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clermont Brewing Company | Historic Downtown | Craft beer, Neapolitan pizza, live music, trivia nights, beer garden | |
| Sun Creek Brewery | Historic Downtown | Clermont's first craft brewery, trivia, bingo, live music, pet-friendly | |
| The Roasted Spirit | Historic Downtown | Craft cocktails, specialty bitters, syrups, largest sipping spirits selection | |
| Sud's Saloon | Montrose Street Market | 70+ craft beers, wine by bottle or glass, house-made sangrias, chill vibe | |
| Lake Minneola Tiki Bar & Grill | Lake Minneola | Lakefront, tropical drinks, tiki tots, sunset views, comfort food | |
| Crown Restaurant & Lounge | Clermont | Laid-back dive bar, classic food and drinks, happy hour 7 days |
🌮 International & Ethnic Cuisine
| Restaurant Name | Type | Location | Specialty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Guru Indian Restaurant | Indian | US 27 | Award-winning authentic Indian, tandoori, vegetarian options, family-owned |
| El Cerro | Latin American | West Hwy 50 | Cuban sandwiches, Dominican Tres Golpes, Bistec Encebollado, Sancocho |
| Pepe's Cantina | Mexican | Clermont/Kissimmee | Fresh ingredients, table-side guacamole, hand-made corn tortillas |
| The Friar Tuck | English | Cagan Crossings Blvd | Authentic English breakfast, fish and chips, crumpets, scotch eggs |
| Design Sushi | Japanese | Montrose Street Market | Fresh sushi, custom rolls, salmon sushi flower, poke bowls |
| Poke Kai | Hawaiian | Montrose Street Market | Custom poke bowls, poke burgers, fresh ingredients, variety of toppings |
🌊 Waterfront Dining
| Restaurant Name | Type | Location | Specialty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Salt Shack on the Lake | Seafood | Lake Minneola, Historic Downtown | Wild-caught seafood, Caribbean vibes, lakefront views, sustainable ingredients |
| Lake Minneola Tiki Bar & Grill | Casual | Lake Minneola | Lakefront dining, tropical drinks, sunset views, family-friendly |
| The View at Clermont National | Casual | Clermont National Golf Course | Golf course views, outdoor seating, handcrafted cocktails, live music weekends |
"Clermont's food scene has something special—you get Orlando-quality dining without the crowds, all with a hometown feel and spectacular lake views. It's the best-kept secret in Central Florida."↑ Back to Top
Dining Districts & Local Favorites in Clermont
Clermont's dining scene is concentrated in several key areas, each offering its own unique atmosphere and culinary character. Historic Downtown Clermont has become the epicenter of the city's food culture, with the walkable Montrose Street district leading the charge as a culinary destination.
People Also Ask
What are the best restaurants in Clermont?
Clermont's top restaurants include Root & Branch Bistro + Bar for farm-to-table fine dining, Crafted Steakhouse for premium cuts, The Southern on 8th for Southern cuisine with Florida seafood, Salt Shack on the Lake for waterfront seafood dining, and the Montrose Street Market food hall featuring diverse vendors like Golden Hills Coffee and Brave Burger. For international cuisine, Guru Indian Restaurant is award-winning, while The Friar Tuck offers authentic English fare.
Does Clermont have good dining options?
Yes! Clermont has experienced a remarkable culinary renaissance, with over 270 restaurants offering everything from award-winning fine dining to casual lakefront eateries. The revitalized Historic Downtown features sophisticated restaurants, craft breweries, specialty cocktail bars, and the innovative Montrose Street Market food hall. The dining scene rivals much larger cities while maintaining Clermont's hometown charm.
Where do locals eat in Clermont?
Locals love the Montrose Street Market for its variety, Clermont Brewing Company for craft beer and pizza, Just Love Coffee Cafe for breakfast, Root & Branch for special occasions, and the waterfront spots like Lake Minneola Tiki Bar & Grill for sunset dining. The Sunday Farmers Market on Montrose Street is also popular. Historic Downtown's open container policy makes evening restaurant hopping a local favorite activity.
What cuisine types are available in Clermont?
Clermont offers impressive culinary diversity including American farm-to-table, Southern cuisine, steakhouses, fresh seafood, award-winning Indian, authentic Latin American, Mexican, English, Japanese sushi, Hawaiian poke, Italian pizza, craft barbecue, and more. The Montrose Street Market alone features multiple cuisine types under one roof, from burgers to crepes to Asian fusion.
What is Montrose Street Market?
Montrose Street Market is Clermont's innovative two-story food hall located in Historic Downtown, featuring 11+ independently-owned vendors under one roof. Similar to Winter Garden's Plant Street Market, it includes Golden Hills Coffee Roasters, Brave Burger, Design Sushi, Poke Kai, Sud's Saloon bar, and various other food options. It's perfect when you can't decide on one cuisine—everyone can get what they want and eat together!
Living the Dining Life in Clermont
Why Choose Clermont for Dining & Culinary Experiences?
Clermont residents enjoy:
- Historic Downtown Charm - Walkable brick-lined streets with open container policy, lakefront dining, and weekly events
- Quality Rivals Orlando - Award-winning restaurants, craft breweries, and sophisticated cocktail lounges without the big-city crowds
- Waterfront Dining - Multiple lakeside restaurants on Lake Minneola offering spectacular sunset views with your meal
- Food Innovation - Montrose Street Market food hall, farm-to-table concepts, and regularly opening new restaurants keep the scene fresh
Dining Lifestyle in Clermont
🍽️ Farm-to-Fork Movement
Clermont embraces fresh, local ingredients with restaurants like Root & Branch sourcing within 200 miles, Golden Hills Coffee roasting in-house, and the Sunday Farmers Market providing direct farm access. The community values quality and sustainability.
☕ Coffee Culture
From Just Love Coffee's hand-roasted specialty blends to Golden Hills' artisan roasting and Foxtail's seasonal cold brews, Clermont has a thriving coffee scene. Multiple cafes offer comfortable spaces for working remotely or meeting friends.
🍷 Craft Beverage Scene
Clermont's craft beer and cocktail culture includes multiple breweries with trivia nights and live music, sophisticated bourbon bars, and specialty cocktail lounges. The relaxed vibe encourages trying new flavors and supporting local businesses.
🎉 Food & Music Events
Weekly Farmers Markets, monthly wine walks, food truck nights, trivia at breweries, live music at venues like Clermont Brewing Company, and seasonal downtown festivals make dining in Clermont a social experience year-round.
Quick Dining Facts
- Price Range: Entrees typically $12-35, with fine dining at $20-45. Many happy hour specials and family-friendly pricing at casual spots
- Delivery & Takeout: UberEats, DoorDash, and Grubhub widely available; most restaurants offer online ordering and curbside pickup
- Reservations: Recommended for fine dining (Root & Branch, Crafted, The Southern on 8th); casual spots typically don't require reservations
- Family-Friendly: Excellent family dining with kids' menus at most casual restaurants; waterfront parks perfect for takeout picnics
- Special Diets: Growing vegetarian/vegan options; Guru Restaurant offers extensive vegetarian menu; many restaurants accommodate gluten-free requests
- Open Container: Historic Downtown has open container policy—enjoy drinks while strolling between venues
Nearby Dining Destinations
Clermont residents also have easy access to dining options in nearby Central Florida communities:
↑ Back to TopFrequently Asked Questions About Clermont Dining
What are the best date night restaurants in Clermont?
For romantic dining, try Root & Branch Bistro + Bar for farm-to-table elegance, Crafted Steakhouse for upscale ambiance, or The Southern on 8th for Southern sophistication with bourbon cocktails. For waterfront romance, Salt Shack on the Lake offers stunning sunset views. The Roasted Spirit provides an intimate craft cocktail experience perfect for conversation. Consider exploring Clermont homes for sale if you love the area's dining culture.
Are there good family restaurants in Clermont?
Absolutely! Miller's Ale House offers large portions and sports viewing, Lake Minneola Tiki Bar & Grill has waterfront dining with a casual atmosphere, and Montrose Street Market lets each family member choose their favorite food. Keke's Breakfast Cafe and Just Love Coffee Cafe are excellent for breakfast and brunch. The View at Clermont National features outdoor seating and yard games. Many families are drawn to Clermont's excellent dining combined with quality schools—explore Clermont homes for sale to learn more.
What type of cuisine can I find in Clermont?
Clermont offers impressive diversity: award-winning Indian cuisine at Guru Restaurant, authentic Latin American at El Cerro, traditional English fare at The Friar Tuck, fresh sushi at Design Sushi, Hawaiian poke bowls at Poke Kai, Mexican at Pepe's Cantina, plus American farm-to-table, Southern cuisine, steakhouses, fresh seafood, craft barbecue, Italian pizza, and more. The Montrose Street Market alone features multiple international cuisines under one roof.
How does Clermont's dining scene compare to nearby areas?
Clermont's dining scene has emerged as a true competitor to established culinary destinations. While it may not have the sheer volume of Winter Park or Dr Phillips' Restaurant Row, it offers comparable quality with a more relaxed, hometown atmosphere. The Historic Downtown's walkability, waterfront setting, and innovative concepts like Montrose Street Market give Clermont unique advantages. Plus, you avoid Orlando-area traffic and crowds while enjoying award-winning restaurants.
Are there good coffee shops and cafes in Clermont?
Yes! Clermont has developed a strong coffee culture with Just Love Coffee Cafe (hand-roasted specialty coffee), Golden Hills Coffee Roasters (artisan micro-roaster at Montrose Street Market), Foxtail Coffee Co. (seasonal cold brews), and Clermont Cafe (hometown favorite). These spots offer comfortable atmospheres for working remotely, studying, or meeting friends, with WiFi and outdoor seating options at most locations.
Find Your Home in Clermont
Ready to enjoy the dining scene of Clermont? Our team at Florida Neighborhood Realty can help you find the perfect home in this culinary-rich community, known as the "Gem of the Hills."
*Disclaimer: The inclusion of restaurants, establishments, and links on this site does not imply endorsement by the site owner. We make no endorsement, express or implied, of any restaurants, establishments, or linked websites. We are not responsible for the content, accuracy, menus, prices, or activities of any linked sites. Restaurant information, menus, and prices are subject to change; please verify current details directly with the establishments.
Last Updated: November 3, 2025
Keith Willis
