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.

Close-up of The Forge's circular black-and-white sign mounted against a clear blue sky.
Wide view of a construction site with a large white building in the background and an empty paved area in the foreground.
A fenced-off area of active construction with dirt piles, equipment and scattered building materials.

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.

Ignite

An Asian-fusion restaurant featuring sushi and contemporary dishes.

The Hammock

A Mediterranean-style tapas bar with an emphasis on shareable plates.

Blue Anvil Brewery

A microbrewery with indoor seating, patio space and direct access to the complex’s central courtyard.

Additional kiosk-style vendors will serve coffee, desserts and casual bites.

More than restaurants

One of the site’s standout features is a special liquor license that will allow patrons to carry alcoholic beverages throughout the property–a rarity in the Ocala area. The developers have emphasized that the campus-style layout is designed to encourage exploration between venues without interrupting the guest experience.

The Forge is also expected to serve as a new anchor for Ocala’s growing Midtown corridor. Plans include hosting live music, pop-up markets, themed nights and community events. Ample on-site and valet parking are planned to accommodate high visitor traffic once the complex opens.

While no exact opening date has been announced, The Forge is projected to debut this winter, pending final construction and permitting milestones.

With its combination of food, nightlife and community-focused programming, The Forge is expected to become one of Ocala’s most distinctive new destinations–and a major addition to the city’s revitalized Midtown district.