The Ritz of Chaz

After serving an amazing fish dinner of our guests' fresh catch, I began handing out the hot wash clothes from our towel warmer. The group was delighted and liked the refreshing touch after a great meal and I joked 'you didn't know you were at the Ritz of Chaz did you?' Dinners and hot breakfasts have been a pleasant surprise to me. I was say luke-warm on the prospects of this part of the business.  It's alot of work to prepare and deliver a terrific meal and the kitchen had only been opened to groups of 12 or more in the past.  I softened our stance and slid the minimum group number down to 6 which gave me an opportunity to sample the Cuban Pork, the Amazing Meatballs with pasta side, and the fish frys during the off-season.  The fact is, the recipes are good, the service is strong, and it makes too much sense to not only do it, but to do it more often and even consider opening the restaurent more frequently and perhaps expand it with consistent operating hours, you know, like a restaurant.  Look to my blog on updates when we choose to offer a simple, delicious grab and go menu.  No one else near us offers the quality, service, and value we will deliver.  

Beer and wine are coming soon.  Most likely beer first as the Chaz now has an on and off prem beer/wine license.  We may start inside for guests and then put up some more outside seating options and open things up a bit more.  My goal here is simple 'a very nice place to have a beer.' We're excited to offer this service and beer will be available by the time you decide to book your first or next visit.

It's been a strong month for groups here and we have alot of great stories for some other time.  For now I'd like to thank my guests for giving me reports on some of the local doings and notable experiences:

--Homosassa Wildlife refuge was reported to be an outstanding couple hours of your time and includes many 'rescue' animals that you can probably only run into in zoo habitats in more populated areas, including a hippo.

--The Old Mill Tavern has great food and service and is 'killing it' with our guests

--Dolphin began to 'play' with a couple who rented a kayak from us right in the Chassahowitzka River.  They were thrilled beyond words!

--The manatee is Crystal River are now in season and several guests have reported sightings on their visits.  It only gets better from here through April

--I discovered the Tea Room in Crystal River and met the owner Gail.  Great food and tea and a great stop for lunch and a pick-me-up.

--NJOY distillery is open on weekends and has an almost storybook look including a water-mill, ample outdoor space, a tour of the distillery, and an on-duty beertender.  I hope to put something together with them soon as it is quite the operation.  

We've been busy improving our internal operations and providing the service that may make us the 'Ritz of Chaz'. While you would do well to not expect the Ritz Carlton, you can expect us to strive for touches of service and an occassional elegance.  

Gator Jim