OCALA, FL (352today.com) – For those planning to get out of the house for a meal on Christmas Day, several local restaurants will be open while many others close for the holiday. Hours may vary by location, so calling ahead is recommended to confirm service, seating or takeout availability.
China Lee Buffet (Ocala)
Open from 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., China Lee Buffet serves a variety of Chinese dishes in a casual buffet setting. Dine-in and takeout are available. 3933 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala. 352-671-1888
Covey Kitchen + Cocktails (Gainesville)
The restaurant, located in Hotel ELEO, is serving breakfast, lunch and dinner from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., with the bar open until 10 p.m. 1514 SW 14th St., Gainesville. 352-565-3536
Dave & Buster’s (Gainesville)
The restaurant and arcade combo will operate from 5 p.m. to 12 a.m. 3023 SW 45th St., Gainesville. 352-448-2900
Denny’s (Ocala)
Denny’s will operate 24 hours on Christmas Day, offering breakfast, lunch and dinner all day. No reservations are required. 3801 W. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala. 352-620-8981
Foody Bowl at Cherrywood Market (Ocala)
Foody Bowl is open 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., featuring Asian-inspired bowls. Customers can choose dine-in or takeout; no reservation is necessary. 9570 SW 62nd Ave., Suite 900, Ocala. 352-355-3088
IHOP (Ocala & Gainesville)
The Ocala location at 1124 S. Pine Ave. as well as the Gainesville location at 3625 SW 13th St. will be open, though hours may vary by location. Walk-ins are welcome; no reservations needed. Multiple locations.
Mother’s Pub & Grill (Gainesville)
Mother’s Pub & Grill will be open from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m., offering a full pub menu. 5109 NW 39th Ave., Gainesville. 352-727-4722
Mr. Han’s Restaurant (Gainesville)
Open 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Mr. Han’s offers Asian cuisine with dine-in or takeout options. Reservations are suggested. 6944 NW 10th Pl., Gainesville. 352-331-6400
Red Lobster (Ocala)
Red Lobster plans to serve 12 p.m. to 9 p.m., offering its full seafood menu. Dine-in or takeout is available, with reservations suggested. 3393 SW College Rd., Ocala. 352-237-1291
Stirrups (Ocala)
Located at the World Equestrian Center, Stirrups will have a special Christmas Day dinner service featuring a holiday menu. Reservations are needed and hours are based on reservation. 8510 NW 17th Ln., Ocala. 352-414-7864
Storming Crab (Ocala)
Storming Crab will be open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., with seating ending at 9:30 p.m. Specializing in Cajun-style seafood. 3500 SW College Rd. #100, Ocala. 352-304-6996
Tony’s Sushi (Ocala)
Offering Japanese cuisine and sushi, Tony’s Sushi will be open 11 a.m. to 9:15 p.m. on Christmas. Dine-in or takeout is available and reservations are recommended. 3405 SW College Rd., Ocala. 352-237-3151
Waffle House
All three Ocala locations and all four Gainesville locations will be open 24/7. Waffle House will serve breakfast, lunch and dinner throughout Christmas Day. Walk-ins are welcome; no reservations needed. Multiple locations.
