If you’re looking to get a bite to eat at one of the places you’re used to at the Kissimmee Lakefront, you’ll soon be pleasantly surprised.
There are new operators at the city park’s two prominent eateries, the Ruby Plaza Diner near the park pavilions, and the iconic Big Toho Marina.
Visitors to the park, and these eateries, can expect expanded menus and options.
Janet and David Alvarez and family take over the plaza diner, with plans to expand the menu. Jorge and Jackie Espinosa, who run a handful of successful downtown businesses, including the Kissimmee Diner and Matador Tacos & Tapas Bar, take over at the marina. Former owner Mark Detwiler and his family sold their over two-decade old operation, known for breakfast, lunch and outfitting anglers who launched out of the Lake Toho boat ramp right outside the windows.
They were celebrated with ribbon cuttings Thursday hosted by the city of Kissimmee, which leases each location.
“From the moment these concession agreements were awarded, the excitement and energy has been incredible,” Kissimmee Parks and Recreation Director Steve Lackey said. “Janet and David have done work on the inside and have some great ideas for outdoor dining.
“The marina has been a part of Lakefront park for over 20 years. The past owners did a wonderful job, but I’ve been excited to see some of the enhancements Jackie and Jorge made to the property in just the last couple weeks.”
Janet Alvarez said they are still making electrical and appliances improvements to the diner spot, but plan to start serving new Venezuelan turnovers, soups and sandwiches, then expand the menu even further as they get settled.
“For us to be part of this community, we are grateful,” she said.
At the iconic Marina, renovated by the city in 2014, the Espinosas will still run its bait and tackle operation, managed by Jorge’s brother, and continue the tradition of daily breakfast and lunch. Seafood dinner nights Thursday through Saturday that will include shellfish, salmon, fish and chips and, what Jackie raved about Thursday, gator bites, make for an exciting addition to the downtown Kissimmee dinner landscape.
“It tastes like chicken,” she joked. “We have worked hard in the city of Kissimmee. We are honored to partner with the city to offer it a little more. We can only hope to live up to what Mark and his family did for 20 years and create great memories for families. That’s our goal.”
The new concessions plan for official openings this week.
