OCALA, FL (352today.com) – At Braised Onion, a family-owned restaurant on NE 25th Avenue in Ocala, comfort food meets homemade craftsmanship, creating a dining experience that draws locals and travelers alike.

Described by the owners as offering “Comfort Food with Attitude,” the restaurant offers a broad Southern American menu ranging from meatloaf and short rib stroganoff to shrimp and grits and salmon entrees–all served in a semi-casual yet vibrant setting. Staff emphasized during a recent visit that every dish–including salads, entrees and pastries–is prepared in-house. That homemade focus is apparent, though not every dish lands evenly.

The Poached Pear Salad and the Mixed Berry Salad featured fresh fruit and greens with house dressings that presented strong, concentrated flavors. The Ora King Salmon was served with a seasoning profile that leaned noticeably salty. The Maryland Crab Cakes had a well-formed texture. Soups such as the lobster bisque and French onion soup offered rich, fuller flavors typical of the restaurant’s comfort-food style.

A plate of mixed greens topped with bright orange poached pear slices, feta cheese, nuts, and a drizzle of dark vinaigrette.
A fresh berry salad with strawberries, blueberries, nuts, mixed greens, and a side cup of dark vinaigrette.
A plate featuring two golden Maryland-style crab cakes garnished with fresh greens and diced vegetables.

The Braised Onion also features a house-made dessert menu. The creme brulee included a caramelized sugar top and soft vanilla custard and the Princess Di’s Favorite Bread Pudding offered a denser, sweeter option within the dessert lineup. Both items align with the restaurant’s emphasis on pastries prepared on-site.

A close-up of a caramelized crème brûlée topped with powdered sugar, served in a white ramekin with a spoon beside it.
Braised Onion’s house-made crème brûlée topped with a crisp caramelized sugar shell.
Courtesy: Braised Onion

The restaurant offers a full-service bar, a private dining room for group events and a decor style described as colorful and playful. Online listings characterize the atmosphere as casual-elegant.

A view of Braised Onion’s dining room showing neatly arranged wooden tables, patterned chairs, and warm coral-colored walls.
A warmly lit bar area with rows of bottles, hanging lights, and upholstered chairs surrounding polished tables.

The Braised Onion remains a local establishment centered on dishes prepared from scratch, with a menu that offers flavor options every palate will enjoy.