The Rose Plantation, a century-old residence constructed on a picturesque four-acre tract of the former citrus field in Fruitland Park, is a must-see. While many residents are familiar with the location as a popular American-style restaurant with live music and upscale dining, few are aware of the building’s fascinating past or The Villages couple who have owned it since 2015.
David and Diana Andrews, of the Village of Pinellas, have been hitched for 48 years and came to The Villages full-time in 2006. They bought The Rose Plantation after it had been neglected for five years and rebuilt it into a community mainstay as well as a distinctive dining experience.
“One doesn’t come here just to eat,” David said. “They come for the total experience of service, gentility, atmosphere and the beauty of the surroundings.”
The Rose Plantation was developed in 1917 for newspaper publisher William Dwight. The Dwight family threw galas, masquerades, socials and garden tea parties all through the Roaring ‘20s. Customers may picture themselves back in the exquisite times of the Dwights’ parties because the building is located close to Fountain Lake, surrounded by massive trees and rolling green hills.
Because of her history in the hospitality sector, Diana said she really enjoys designing the restaurant. She served at her parent’s Maine motel as a child, where she and her family hosted celebrities such as Frank Sinatra Jr. Diana had also worked as an usher at a playhouse, where she appreciated mingling with the audience.
“I’ve always enjoyed giving to people and making them happy,” Diana said. “This is really what I enjoy about business. Watching people smile is so wonderful. When they tell their friends about us, it makes us very happy.”
Joe Mankowski, of the Village of Osceola Hills, has been performing stride piano music there recently on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays. The new piano lounge ambiance has been a favorite with customers, but they credit their actual success to both their teamwork and the hard work of their employees.
“We have excellent staff, and I think the most important thing for all of us is to enjoy what we’ve doing and enjoy the pleasure that our patrons take coming here,” David said.
Diana agreed and added, “Dave and I have been married for 48 years, and we try to complement each other in anything we do.”
Fruitland Park’s Rose Plantation is located at 200 Rose Avenue. Visit theroseplantation.com for more details.
