A New Chapter in the Mount Dora Restaurant Scene

There’s something exciting happening on Donnelly Street, blending the charm of old Mount Dora with a fresh sense of energy, taste and community. Stairway 2 Donnelly isn’t just another restaurant; it’s a modern-day social eatery built to celebrate what makes this lakeside town so unforgettable: connection, creativity and incredible food.

A Fresh Take on Mount Dora’s Historic Heart

Tucked into the heart of downtown Mount Dora, just steps from the shops, galleries and lakeside strolls that make this area famous, Stairway 2 Donnelly has breathed new life into one of the town’s most beloved streets. Locals from Eustis, Tavares and Leesburg are rediscovering downtown dining as the restaurant blends historic architecture with modern bistro flair—wood, brick and glass all working together to create a warm, inviting atmosphere.

What sets Stairway 2 Donnelly apart is its commitment to honoring Mount Dora’s past while serving today’s palate. You can feel it in the carefully restored details, the hand-picked artwork and the energy that hums from brunch to evening cocktails. It’s a space where you can relax, meet friends and taste something memorable.

Where Flavor Meets Story

From the first sip of your morning coffee to the last bite of dessert, everything here has intention behind it. The menu—crafted by chefs who believe in both creativity and comfort—offers refined dishes that reflect Florida’s seasonal bounty. Think fresh, local ingredients transformed into signature plates that surprise without overwhelming.

If you’re stopping in for brunch, expect bold flavor combinations, artful plating and the kind of sunny atmosphere that makes Mount Dora mornings feel special. Afternoon visitors can unwind with a glass of wine, a crafted cocktail or shareable plates that invite conversation. And for dinner? The bistro transforms—dim lighting, soft music and a menu that showcases the artistry behind every course.

Designed for the Community

Stairway 2 Donnelly was created for both locals and visitors who want more than just a meal. It’s a meeting place for seasonal residents returning for the cooler months, a destination for couples from Apopka planning a date night and a spot for friends from Orlando looking for a quieter, high-end dining escape away from the bustle of downtown city life.

Every detail—from the playlist to the plating—reflects a philosophy that dining should be an experience, not just an event. The restaurant invites you to linger, laugh and reconnect over good food and good company.

Building Something Lasting

While the restaurant feels new, its roots run deep. The team behind Stairway 2 Donnelly wanted to create something that would last—a place where tradition and trend could coexist. Mount Dora’s reputation as a destination for art, culture and charm made it the perfect setting for this new culinary chapter.

So whether you’re a first-time visitor or a long-time local, this is your invitation to be part of Mount Dora’s evolving food scene. Pull up a chair, take in the view from Donnelly Street and enjoy a moment that tastes like something fresh yet familiar.

Because at Stairway 2 Donnelly, every meal tells a story—and this is just the beginning of a new chapter in Mount Dora dining.

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From Historic Floors to Fresh Flavors: How We Revived a Mount Dora Landmark

By Nikkole McIntyre • February 17, 2026

A Building With a Story Worth Telling Some locations carry weight. They hold the memory of every meal shared, every conversation had, every anniversary celebrated within their walls. 440 N Donnelly St is one of those places. For years, this second-floor space above the bustle of Donnelly Street welcomed guests as One Flight Up, a restaurant that became woven into the fabric of Mount Dora's dining scene. When that chapter closed, the building didn't lose its magic; it just waited for the right people to bring it back to life. That's where we come in. Meet the People Behind the Revival Stairway 2 Donnelly is owned and operated by Justin Sanford and Nikkole McIntyre, two longtime locals who grew up in this community and never stopped believing in what Mount Dora has to offer. When we took over this space, we weren't just opening a restaurant. We were making a promise to the town we love: that this corner of Donnelly Street would once again be a place where people gather, laugh, celebrate, and feel at home. We started from the ground up with the same historic floors, the same stunning balcony, and a completely fresh vision. The View That Stops You in Your Tracks Here's the thing about our balcony: no filter is needed. Perched above the heart of downtown Mount Dora, our outdoor seating gives you one of the most breathtaking views in the city. You can watch the street come alive below, feel the Florida breeze, and sip on a handcrafted cocktail while the sun sets over the rooftops. Whether you're planning a date night, celebrating a birthday, or just finally taking that evening off you've been putting off, this is the kind of setting that makes any occasion feel special. If you're searching for restaurants with a view in Mount Dora, FL, you don't need to look any further. Great Food, Made With Care The view gets you here. The food keeps you coming back. We believe every meal should start with fresh ingredients and end with a smile. Our menu is built around comforting, thoughtfully prepared dishes that don't take themselves too seriously but deliver every time. You'll find starters like our Crab Cake Sliders with blueberry remoulade, a Banana Split Caprese salad that surprises in the best way, and hearty supper plates like our 12oz slow-roasted Prime Rib and Shrimp Scampi over pasta. We've also got a full Kids Menu for the little ones, so the whole family can enjoy the evening. And yes, we take dessert seriously. Key Lime Pie, Chocolate Cake, and a Banana Split round out a menu designed to make you slow down and savor every bite. A New Way to Dine: Curated Evenings, Not Cookie-Cutter Nights Out We're doing something a little different at Stairway 2 Donnelly, and we think you're going to love it. Instead of operating as a traditional seven-day restaurant, we've shifted our focus to special evenings and curated events that make every visit feel intentional. Because when you come here, we want it to mean something. Here's what that looks like right now: 🍝 Italian Night Special — Every Wednesday, 4–9 PM Indulge in an evening of Italian food paired with $5 wines. It's a mid-week reset that actually feels like a reward. Perfect for date night or dinner with friends who deserve more than takeout. 🥩 Prime Rib Night — Every Saturday, 4–9 PM Our Saturday Prime Rib Night has become a reason to make plans. A generous cut, slow-roasted to perfection, served with all the sides for just $25. If you're looking for a prime rib dinner in Mount Dora, Florida, this is the one locals are talking about. All other evenings are available for private events and special gatherings , from birthday dinners to corporate celebrations to intimate parties with a view. More Than a Restaurant — A Community Hub We're not just in Mount Dora. We're of Mount Dora. That means we partner with local farmers, brewers, and artists. It means we show up for the events and traditions that make this town special. And it means that when you dine with us, you're supporting a family that genuinely cares about the place you both call home. We also host special events throughout the year, including trivia nights, holiday dinners, and themed evenings, so there's always a reason to come back and bring someone new. Frequently Asked Questions About Stairway 2 Donnelly Where is Stairway 2 Donnelly located? We're at 440 N Donnelly St, Mount Dora, Florida 32757, right in the heart of historic downtown, above the activity of Donnelly Street. What are Stairway 2 Donnelly's hours? We're open Wednesdays and Saturdays from 4–9 PM for our weekly dining specials. Other evenings are reserved for private events and special gatherings. Does Stairway 2 Donnelly have outdoor seating? Yes! Our balcony seating offers stunning views of downtown Mount Dora, one of the best in the city. Can I book Stairway 2 Donnelly for a private event? Absolutely. We welcome private bookings for birthdays, celebrations, corporate events, and more. Reach out by email or phone to check availability. What kind of food does Stairway 2 Donnelly serve? We serve a thoughtfully crafted menu of American dishes with creative twists, from Crab Cake Sliders and fresh salads to Prime Rib and Shrimp Scampi. We also have a Kids’ Menu and desserts. Is Stairway 2 Donnelly family-friendly? Yes! We're a family-owned restaurant and warmly welcome guests of all ages. Come See What We've Built Mount Dora has always been a place where history and character collide. We're proud to be a part of that story. Whether you're a local who remembers what this space used to be, or a visitor discovering our little corner of Florida for the first time, we'd love to share it with you. Join us for Italian Night every Wednesday or Prime Rib Night every Saturday, 4–9 PM. Or book our space for your next private event and make it one people won't stop talking about. 📍 440 N Donnelly St, Mount Dora, FL 32757 📞 352-995-2536 | 352-987-8437 ✉️ Nikkolemcintyre267@gmail.com Your seat — and your view — are waiting. Fresh Flavor, Exceptional Views, History, and Community Located in Mount Dora, with easy access from Eustis, Tavares, Tangerine, Zellwood, Sorrento, Bassville Park, Haines Creek, Grand Island, Dona Vista, and Apopka. Posted on February 17, 2026 | Published by Ignite Local | Related Local Business