Mount Dora Bistro has the kind of warm, personal hospitality that makes you want to love the place. The owner and server were genuinely attentive--engaged, welcoming, and clearly invested in making guests feel comfortable. That level of care is increasingly rare, and it deserves real credit. Where the experience faltered, unfortunately, was the food. The prefix menu included many dishes, but most missed the mark. They felt lackluster, missing the depth, seasoning, or execution that would match the charm of the service. Nothing was outright bad, but nothing stood out either. It's the kind of meal that leaves you wishing the kitchen's ambition matched the front‑of‑house enthusiasm. It may have been an off night, but there was only one other couple in the place on a Friday dinner service, so that may have been a sign up front. read more

Dreaming of a lovely lunch on the Rive Gauche, but stuck in central Florida? Come fill your soul with some Parisian pleasure. The Bistro dining room is charming and stylish. Generous seating and calm, peaceful music make for a very intimate setting to enjoy with dinning companions. We started off with the Charcuterie platter. Beautifully prepared and served/explained by Chef John. This included an oven fresh baguette, served in its own delightful paper bag. For entrées we shared the Beef Bourguigon, and Ratatouille. Both were delicious. I have so much respect for Chef John. Operating a small high end restaurant in 2026, must be the toughest job around. From the competition around him, the high cost of quality specialty foods, rent, staff and providing experiences. You can feel the love in every bite. Go treat yourself to a wonderful dinning experience. A Votre Sante' Chef John. read more

Took a trip to Mount Dora to take my mom and daughter out for afternoon tea.  The amount Dora Bistro was the perfect setting for this experience, the place felt vintage and airy.  The experience included a selection of unique teas, a tea tower to share which included tea sandwiches, fresh baked croissants, macaroons, and fresh fruit.  The afternoon tea was $42 a person and though the experience and food were tasty no way was this worth that price for the amount of food you actually got.   There was only one server working and you can tell he needed help.  You need to make reservations a head of time and hold them with a credit card as a heads up. read more

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Everything is amazing, from the minute you walk thru the front door, so welcoming, the owner John is outstanding and waitress were both amazing, .. We dined in four of us , most delicious lunch ever. Two of us had smoked salmon salad / greens and two of us had the turkey at Brie Croque , so delicious, like the turkey was just carved very moist.highly recommend they're scrumptious desserts all homemade , truly highly recommended. read more

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Merci! After a relaxing massage this morning, I further treated myself to the boeuf bourguignon here at The Mount Dora Bistro. Absolutely delicious! Stewed beef in sauce with potatoes, peas, mushrooms - whatever might be the chef's vegetable - and a scrumptious little side salad to boot. I could kick myself for not adding a baguette. Even the water was excellent - which is important because that's what they're cooking the food in. Mind you, dining at the Bistro is an event and you will pay a few extra pennies. But the quality of the ingredients is there, the atmosphere is charming, and the team on-site were positively delightful. I don't remember the last time a restaurant Manager dropped off my meal with such a flourish of enthusiasm, kindness, and gratitude. Thank you to Tracy for taking care of me! Why wouldn't I return? A bientot! read more

The Mount Dora Bistro - French Near Me - Mount Dora, Florida

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This place was clean cozy, and made a good first impression. The food was mostly solid -- my wife's brie and turkey sandwich hit all the right notes in flavor, texture, and presentation. It was well worth it! There were a few things that could improve the experience We arrived about 30 minutes before the lunch-to-tea menu transition, and it felt like we were cutting it a little too close for their comfort. Another couple that arrived just 8 minutes before the switch was turned away for lunch, which felt a bit rigid. I might have considered simply adjusting the posted lunch end time to improve customers experience. The couple seemed fine, but for me it did not resonate well. I also tried the French onion soup, which unfortunately missed the mark. The broth lacked depth, the onions were diced instead of sliced, and they didn't have that signature caramelized richness you expect. That said, I appreciated the owner-chef noticing I hadn't touched much of it and removed it from the bill -- that kind of accountability goes a long way. I just wished he would have asked me what why I didn't like the French onion soup. I could have shared my signature French onion soup recipe. However, I did appreciated him taking it off my bill. The service could be a little more guest-focused. It's still worth a visit if you're in the area -- I would suggest trying other dishes. read more

The Mount Dora Bistro - French onion soup - French Near Me - Mount Dora, Florida

A wonderful local spot in downtown Mount Dora. John is a gracious owner who always makes guests feel welcome. My go-to is the chicken salad sandwich--it's always fresh and delicious. The potato leek soup is another standout and definitely worth trying. Great food, friendly service, and a warm atmosphere. Highly recommend! read more

Great ambiance, very friendly, great food. It's a very special place. If you want a special atmosphere with great food, stop by - you'll leave with a big smile and a relaxed attitude. read more

The Mount Dora Bistro was awesome. John and his staff created the perfect French cuisine for our Bridesmaids brunch. The atmosphere was fine dining over the top. He provided the flower centerpieces with hydrangeas and baby breaths that were exquisite. I recommend this venue for all your events. Thank you John! Going back tonight for dinner. read more

What a gem! We were able to get a reservation for 11:00am to beat the crowd. Not being high season, we were first ones in. Many tables were set up for their tea service: just lovely. Comfortable chairs, beautiful French-vibe music, attentive service, and best of all, freshly made food. Chicken "pot pie" was actually a vol-au-vent, very flaky pastry with chicken and peas & celery in a cream sauce. And best of all it was served hot enough that by the time I finished my greens it was still hot! Loved it! Dessert was Madeleines with berries & cream. Great light ending for our lunch. Definitely going to be our go-to place in MD! read more

The Mount Dora Bistro - French Near Me - Mount Dora, Florida

We had a wonderful lunch on the patio at My Dora Bistro and couldn't have asked for a better experience. The atmosphere was relaxed and welcoming, and it was the perfect spot to enjoy a sunny afternoon with our dog, Lily. The staff were all genuinely friendly and attentive, but John and Tracy truly went above and beyond. They made Lily feel like the guest of honor--bringing her water, stopping by with kind words and pets, and making sure she was comfortable while we enjoyed our meal. It's rare to find a place that is not only dog-friendly, but so warmly dog-welcoming. The food was fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented, and the service was perfectly paced. Between the great meal, the comfortable patio, and the thoughtful staff, it was a memorable and relaxing experience from start to finish. We'll absolutely be back--Lily will insist on it! read more

Took my wife to Mount Dora for her birthday. We shopped for awhile and then we stopped for lunch. The Bistro is quant and inviting and our server Tracy an absolute doll. She was attentive and gracious. The food was delicious and we got to meet Chef John. Well I don't know what we enjoyed more, the food or the conversation with our host. Chef John had us feeling like family while we dined, so much so that it took us awhile to leave after finishing our lunch the conversation with so comfortable and engaging. We've been invited to come back and are looking forward to planning our next visit. Thank you both for helping make my wife's birthday special. read more

The Mount Dora Bistro - Rich and Angela - French Near Me - Mount Dora, Florida

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The highlight of our day in Mount Dora was lunch with Chef/Owner John Rossetti, partner Adonis and server Debora. The restaurant is located in the former tea shop on 4th Avenue and has been freshly updated. Greeted, seated and served by Debora, she was with obvious enthusiasm throughout our visit. The great service and delicious food continued throughout our lunch with periodic visits from Chef John and Adonis. Meals included a generous portion of Pear et Praline salad (greens, baked pear, pralines, Blue Cheese, drizzled with the house Champagne Vinaigrette). This salad included a flaky mini croissant that can't be forgotten. The French Dip Bourguignon of tender roast beef, onions, Gruyère and bourguignon jus. We topped lunch off with the dessert of chocolate fondue (Swiss/Belgium blend) with fresh berries & ladyfingers. The food is wonderful here and the extraordinary service made for a pleasant mid-week dining experience. Bon Appetit! read more

The Mount Dora Bistro - Pear et Praline salad, French Dip, chocolate fondue, the operating chocolate fountain and Chef John's chocolate delights. - French Near Me - Mount Dora, Florida

I wishI could give this restaurant 100 stars. I had an event in the beautiful outside patio and the small room. It could not have been more beautiful. The food was so good with a wide variety of options The rave reviews are still coming in. Thank you John and crew for making this a memorable event. read more

The Mount Dora Bistro - John cooking some delicious food. - French Near Me - Mount Dora, Florida

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We had the best tea experience! So fun to celebrate here, and the champagne they served us was delicious! read more

The Mount Dora Bistro - French Near Me - Mount Dora, Florida

Ordered the Peach Rose' and French Onion soup, accompanied by fresh French baguettes which were served hot and delicious. The soup was very tasty, but lacked the melted cheese I'm accustomed to. The rose' was refreshing, not too sweet. The service was excellent and the owner stopped by our table to greet us. It was a quiet Saturday afternoon and overall very pleasant. Next time I visit, I need to try more things on their menu. It all looks very good. read more

Such a wonderful experience. My wife and I have eaten here half a dozen times. Delicious French food in a quaint environment. We got to meet the chef, who was friendly and knowledgeable. We typically go to dinner here for special occasions because, although isn't exactly cheap, it is a special treat and you definitely get what you pay for... quality French cuisine. We want to go back to try their brunch. read more

The Mount Dora Bistro - Dessert drinks - French Near Me - Mount Dora, Florida

Fabulous menu, personable chef who is welcoming and passionate about his creations and lovely setting. Sax player was entertaining. Best food I've had including many trips to France. Our waiter was so attentive and friendly. Highly recommend for great dining in Mt Dora! We will make a trip back just to attend a Chef John event. read more

The ambiance is nice. Service is slow. For 57.00 dollars (tip is automatically added) I had a half sandwich with turkey and a very small amount of brie. Some mixed greens on the side with very tart dressing and a roiboos tea. My husband had a club sandwhich, greens and one beer. While the decor is cute, we would not return. read more

The Mount Dora Bistro - French Near Me - Mount Dora, Florida

We walked in and made a new friend today. It was a very nice experience. John really cares about making a good memory for you and his restaurant. The food was great as was the weight staff. The place is clean and well appointed. We look forward to seeing John again in the future! read more

The Mount Dora Bistro - John, the owner. - French Near Me - Mount Dora, Florida

Beautiful and quaint but the food leaves a lot to be desired. Their version of a Croque Monsieur is simply a regular ham and cheese sandwich and it was even served cold. The French dip was also cold and the baguette and stale, the meat wasn't tasty but the dip was great. One thing good is the service. read more

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We went for the traditional High tea, party of three. At $42 per person plus a 20% gratuity. I can honestly say it was not a good value. We left hungry and disappointed. While the food quality was good, they're simply wasn't enough to justify the price. A shot glass of champagne was not received well either. We've been here before and ordered à la carte sandwiches and enjoyed the experience which prompted our return for the tea. Sadly, we won't be back for the tea again. read more

Too expensive and service is too slow..service definitely..it was a slow night last year and he just opened and had only one waitress so maybe why..haven't been back since.. it took two hours, the whole meal..it was just another couple and six of us. read more

The Mount Dora Bistro is a cute dining room in the heart of downtown. The menu has a French flair to it and a nice selection. We ordered a baguette to start which was served hot in a paper bag and soft butter. For an appetizer we got the French Onion Soup. This was not served in the traditional way but was still good. For our entrees we ordered the Turkey & Brie Sandwich which was served with a light mixed greens salad. It was simple and flavorful. We also ordered the Beef Provençal which was slow cooked beef mixed with tomatoes, carrots and tomatoes over a silky mashed potatoes. Both were nice flavorful simple entrees. For dessert we opted for the Chocolate Mousse and Crème Brûlé. Both were very delicious and a great way to end the meal. Overall we enjoyed our meal at this quaint establishment and want to come back to try this Afternoon Tea Service and Brunch. read more

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What an absolute treasure! We happened upon this place as we visited Mt Dora today for my birthday! The food was an 11 out of 10! And the service was phenomena, we had Tracy (from Europe) who was a delight, then we met the owner/chef John! He was charming and full of great conversation and stories! We will be returning (at John's wonderful description) of Mt Dora around Christmas! Please visit this establishment you will not be disappointed! Thank you for a wonderful birthday surprise! read more

The Mount Dora Bistro - French Near Me - Mount Dora, Florida

Slow, slow, slow service Food anything but satisfying and expensive Automaticaly adds 20% top to bill In short, worst dining experience (service to food) we have experienced in Mt. Dora, where we live. read more

This new French cafe and tea room in Mount Dora is located where the Windsor Rose Tea Room used to be. It looks completely different inside, everything painted white and simple photos set along shelves. It has a very clean and open look. For the most part, you need to make reservations especially if you will be attending one of the two dinner seatings or afternoon tea. We attended the le gouter which I had to look up since I don't know French - it literally means afternoon tea. Seatings for tea are at 2:30 pm Wednesdays through Saturdays. I didn't know what to expect since this was opening week but the experience and food blew me away! For $34, you get a cute tea pot for one, a glass of delicious semisweet champagne, and then a 3-tiered tray per person. The teas are presented as tea bags in boxes and include Twinings, Stash, Bigelow, and Ahmad teas. I would have liked loose teas but this was fine, especially since these are the better tea brands. The tea pots were definitely adorable although they did tend to leak a bit when pouring. The glass of champagne was a generous pour and was slightly sweet, which I prefer (I don't like brut). Everyone at our table got their own tiered platter, which does take up most of the room on the table. But the food looked as magnificent as it tasted. The bottom tier had several hors d'oeuvres including deviled egg with caviar and tuna nicoise. All were amazing. The second tier was the breads with a croissant, a madeleine and a filled pastry. Finally the top tier had the desserts of a macaron, fresh berries and Chantilly cream and a ridiculously rich mini chocolate mousse. Oh, and you also get an amuse-bouche which today was a shot glass of the vichyssoise (cold potato leek soup). I will definitely come back for lunch to get more of that soup! The service was great with the server refilling our tea pots with hot water and the chef/owner came by as well. If you couldn't tell, I really love the food and experience and will be back to try the other menus as well. read more

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We were greeted as we walked in for lunch and offered a table part of the way back. We were given menus right away. There was a nice jazz style music playing. Asking for a unsweetened tea we were offered a raspberry & herbal hibiscus unsweetened tea. I found it was very tasty but I am a type 2 diabetic weaned off sugar and I don't like sugar substitutes. It would not be to the taste of many who do soda and sweet drinks. I ordered the French Dip which was on baguette and very good. My partner order the Ratatouille Baguette and said it was also very good. The greens that can with the sandwiches had a Dijon champagne vinaigrette that we both enjoyed. read more

Great food and service. Parking could be better but the food and atmosphere made up for parking issue.

Sunday brunch was an amazing experience! Excellent service from Tracy and the presentation of the meal was so pretty! read more

The Mount Dora Bistro - Sunday brunch tower - French Near Me - Mount Dora, Florida

We were so happy that we made the decision to have dinner at the Mount Dora Bistro, as it was so much more than a great meal it was an event. From the moment we walked in our host John and server Rita made us feel so welcome, and since so many of the stores in Mount Dora close early it was wonderful to linger over dinner with a glass of wine in such a charming place. We started with the baguette which was warm and toasty and was perfect to nibble on with our wine while we waited for our meals to be prepared. We both had the chicken a l'orange with mashed potatoes and veggies and it was outstanding. No dry white meat it was juicy and delicious. For dessert we had the creme brulee which was a true custard and the perfect ending to a delicious meal. The Mount Dora Bistro also serves lunch, high tea, and several other dining options as well. Everything was perfection. John, our host was one of the nicest people I have ever met, and Rita was sweet and accommodating and efficient. We told John that coming to Mount Dora Bistro made our trip to Mount Dora and it was true we had an amazing time. I would highly recommend dining at Mount Dora Bistro if you are looking for a pleasant dining experience and not just to grab a bite somewhere. When I travel to the Orlando area again, I'm going back. read more

We were in town for the weekend and looking for a nice place to have dinner. WOW we were super surprised to find this quality of food and service here in this small town. From the drinks to appetizers to the meals all four of us LOVED the Bistro. Service was excellent and the chef/owner even came out to introduce himself. The restaurant has a casual personal feel to it...like you are eating at someone's home. We can't wait to come back!! read more

Sometimes the unplanned restaurant visits end up being the best experiences. We had planned to eat at the German restaurant in town, but were told (quite rudely at that) they were closed (despite their website saying otherwise). We then found The Mount Dora Bistro and are so glad we did. Once we were seated, our evening gave us one of the best meals we ever had. The cocktails were delightful, the staff attentive and professional, especially our server, Deborah, and John, the chef and owner. From the French onion soup, the delightfully fresh baguette, and the main course of the tenderest Osso Buco for my husband and the juicy sous-vide chicken with a leek cream sauce, to the crowning dessert of crème brûlée, every bite was a delight. We entered as strangers and left as friends. read more

Such a cute spot, we came on a Sunday for tea and it was perfect. We made an early reservation and were the first ones there and the cook/owner was incredible. He came out and gave us some delicious chocolate treats. He was so sweet!! Tea was good and the tower was the perfect amount of food!! read more

The Mount Dora Bistro - French Near Me - Mount Dora, Florida

My partner and I have been here 6 times in the past 3 months. We used to live in downtown Orlando for over 30 years, where we patronized the venerable and highly-acclaimed Le Coq au Vin country-French restaurant. Sadly, this Central Florida gem closed during the Pandemic, leaving loyal patrons of over 40 years feeling lost. Now, locals and tourists have The Mount Dora Bistro, located in the heart of one of Florida's most beloved Victorian-era towns, high on a hill overlooking Lake Dora. If you want a memorable dining experience that's elevated in atmosphere, service and food then you'll appreciative the level of thought and detail that the owner "Chef John" has executed, from his years of having lived in NYC, and passion for French cooking. A NYC / Florida interior designer, I find the interiors to be remarkably beautiful, inspired by Parisian cafe's, yet comfortable - like "home" comfortable. As undoubtably sophisticated and dressed-up The Bistro presents itself, underneath is a down-to-earth approach to the lighter and more "comfort-food" side of French country cooking. In other words, you might feel as though you're eating in your aunt-and-uncle's dining room, as we and our friends have. Behind my city-slick interior design facade, I'm a real Tennessee hillbilly. So, I'm happy to have found a place that cooks amazing chicken pot-pie, Shepherd's beef au gratin, peppercorn-flavored beef strip loin, beef short ribs (with onions, mushrooms and peas). Truly delicious soups like French onion (without the heavy baked-on cheese) and chilled ones like Vichyssoise (potato based), Gazpacho (tomato based) are some of the best I've had, anywhere. Some fancier dishes like garlic-and-wine flavored escargot and salmon with a dijonnaise glaze and spinach are tasty, and never salty or over-seasoned. All the desserts are exceptional, and the one that gets me in the most trouble is their caramel bread pudding - well also maybe the bistro's beignets - you may want to take an order home to go with coffee the next morning. Whenever we've been here, I've noticed the sheer enjoyment on Chef John's face when he personally brings a dish out to his dining patrons - so much passion, thought and pride. His heartfelt demeanor and desire to please is a true compliment to the entire experience - how refreshing. I recommend looking up the menu ahead of time so that you can decide if you'd like to go as a couple, some friends/neighbors, or a family. However you experience this place, it will be a memorable one, if not many. read more

Such an adorable space, incredible energy and the service is amazing! Definitely the perfect spot to have a lovely brunch or tea. Grateful I stumbled upon this little haven :) read more

The Mount Dora Bistro - French Near Me - Mount Dora, Florida

Nice options on menu. My puff pastry with Brie was cold. I was told cheese was melted so it could not be cold. My husband tasted it also, and agreed that it was cold. That is when they reheated it. Onion Soup had very little cheese, but soup was adequate. The house salad was wonderful. read more

We had the most amazing time celebrating my mother-in-law's birthday at this gem of a restaurant in Mount Dora! From the moment we walked in, we felt like family. Our server, Rita, was an absolute delight--so warm, welcoming, and attentive. She went above and beyond to make sure everything was perfect. John, the owner, is hands down one of the nicest people we've ever met. His passion for hospitality shines through in every detail, from the incredible food to the inviting atmosphere. You can tell he truly cares about his guests having a memorable experience, and he absolutely delivered. The food is also PHENOMENAL. The Chicken l'Orange is the most delicious chicken I have ever had in my life. You can taste the love and care put into every dish, and all at reasonable prices when compared to other restaurants in the area. The ambiance was open, yet cozy and charming, making it the perfect spot for a special celebration. We're already counting down the days until we can come back. If you're in Mount Dora, do yourself a favor and visit this place--you won't be disappointed. read more

WOW! Stunned that this level of restaurant is tucked away as a hidden gem in Mount Dora, a small, cozy, country like town. How lucky are the locals!!! The food was incredible all around. The pricing is unbeatable. I had one of the best chicken dishes I have in years. Coming from the NYC area we are spoiled but the Paris Bistro would fit right in with top contenders there. There wasn't anything that was not thoughtfully done. The atmosphere was simple, refined and welcoming. Chef John was accessible and makes you feel like you've known him for years. I feel in love with him and Rita, our server. Rita bent over backwards to explain the menu, took exceptional care of us and was part of our party. Had we stayed longer Sunday brunch would have been the next day. This is truly a cherished memory and we will be back enthusiastically next visit. read more

This place is absolutely fabulous. From the food to the service it was everything I wanted and more. My food was delicious and the service was amazing. I totally recommend if you like tea and pastries or just want to try something new!! read more

The Mount Dora Bistro - tea time - French Near Me - Mount Dora, Florida