Darrell's Diner — Restaurant in Ocala

Review for Darryl’s Diner – A Disappointing Experience

I have been a longtime patron of Darryl’s Diner on Silver Springs Boulevard in Ocala and have always spoken highly of the food, the atmosphere, and the memories I’ve made there. In fact, during my most recent visit, I was live-streaming a positive review, sharing my appreciation for the restaurant with my small online audience. Unfortunately, my experience was unexpectedly marred when Darryl himself approached my table to inform me that I could not pan the camera across the room, citing concerns from a few patrons.

To be clear, the restaurant was nearly empty at the time, with only three other customers present. The brief scan of the room was neither intrusive nor disruptive—it was a passing moment meant to highlight the ambiance of a place I had always enjoyed. In an era where businesses thrive on word-of-mouth and social media exposure, it was disheartening to be made to feel unwelcome for simply sharing my experience in a positive light.

I fully respect the privacy of other patrons, but in public spaces like a restaurant, customers are seen by dozens of eyes daily. The response I received felt disproportionate and left a sour impression, particularly because I had been an enthusiastic supporter of this establishment. If a restaurant is uncomfortable with the mildest form of public exposure—especially when it is complimentary—it raises the question of how much they truly value their patrons.

Regrettably, this experience has tainted what was once a favorite spot, and I’ll be taking my business elsewhere. There are plenty of wonderful diners in the area that not only serve great food but also appreciate their customers and the power of positive...

Absolutely disgusting and piss poor. If I could give them a 0 now I would have. Used to be wonderful, we'd go every Sat & Sun. This was their last chance. The server spilled the drinks when brought out. Never gave me a straw for my tea. Had later asked for it. Never got a refill. When asked about refilling the coffees at the table didn't even have the pot in her hand. Not once came over and asked how everything was. Now the food portion was awful. My 1/2 order of biscuits and gravy...The gravy still had lumps in it. The sausage was not broken down very well and the biscuit was under cooked. My husbands country fried steak and hash browns were burnt and they gave him the wrong eggs. My father in laws eggs were also wrong. hash browns also burnt. Upon leaving the new manager asked how everything was and we told her all of this. Her reply " Oh well, you know, new staff and they're in training." What! if they're in training how come nobody was with them or observing how the food was made? What an awful excuse. and that's just what is was an excuse. Sorry to say never again or at least maybe until something changes. It wasn't even a gradual down hill it was a straight plummet.

This was the one in...

This place did not disappoint in the least. It is absolutely amazing!! From the moment I walked in the door, I was greeted by one of the most friendly wait staffs ever. Each of the girls was happy and friendly and you could tell that they enjoyed their job. Even working on Easter Sunday, they were happy.

Shannon greeted me at my table, and she took my order promptly. She was very attentive to what it was I wanted, and when she delivered my food. Not only was it fresh and hot, but she brought me extra pickles. That don't mean much to some, but it does to me and it states a lot when your waitress takes special care of your needs.

I wanted a big fat juicy hamburger and I definitely got what I ordered. Not only was the burger fresh and hot, but it was so juicy it was hard to keep it together. But it was exactly as I ordered it, done to perfection. I commend not only the wait staff, but also the cook and the kitchen.

This is one of those places that I will definitely go back out of my way to stop and visit the next time I'm in Florida. I promise you, you won't be...