Manhattan Gyros & Subs — Restaurant in Ocala

Just down the block from where you might be getting a windshield replaced and surrounded by some homes that probably should be condemned sits this restaurant that some reviewers had proclaimed served the best gyros in Ocala.

Since these are the only gyros I've had in Ocala, I can't say they are the best in the whole city, but I can tell you that my kids and I, all connoisseurs of tasty gyros, have not found better in our several years living in Jacksonville and Kansas City. In fact, I'd say Manhattan's gyros and fries even surpass the best I've had in Milwaukee, and there are several excellent gyro joints in MKE.

We did not try anything else on the menu, and when my son suggested he might try something else if we ever ended up at Manhattan's again, I deemed his suggestion sacrilegious that anyone could order anything other than a gyro from such a place as this, especially since we might hope to frequent the establishment once per year at best. And what makes this gyro the best? Hot, cold, crispy, soft, and spice.

Each of our gyros (along with my fries) were heated to perfection. Yes, it took longer than we'd expected, considering we were the only customers waiting inside, but it was so worth it. I told my kids it felt like someone had just created something special just for us. The fries were also hot without being too greasy. Somehow, the gyros also retained some of the cold in the tzatziki sauce and lettuce. Neither distracted. The crispy, high-quality lettuce was reflected with a slight crispiness to both the pita and the lamb, along with the French fries. Nothing burnt. Nothing soggy. But the softness of the bread and airy fries, along with the tender meat, played well with the crisp. And such a well-proportioned amount of spice in both gyro and french fries. In this particular Saturday at Manhattan's, it seemed as if someone knew exactly how to make the perfect gyro for each and every one of us.

Honestly, gyros are pretty simple, as are french fries. We could have been in a hurry and been disappointed by the wait, or we could have picked it up in the drive thru and dealt with it not tasting as hot and fresh. But there we were, three hours from home, stuck waiting for a windshield repair in a town we rarely visit, all of us eating the best gyros with fries we've ever had. I'll add Manhattan's to my newjaxwitty. com website as the best place near(ish) Jacksonville to get gyros, especially if you're headed to Tampa or visiting your in-laws in the Villages. In fact, a stop at Manhattan's might be my new payment for driving the wife and kids to visit...

There's nothing better than a good Gyro, and this place has one that is pretty damn good! It was hot and flavorful, and for a little over $10 for meal which was the Gyro, fries, and a drink you can't beat it. The Gyro is filling, so you better come hungry. I chose the lamb, but there is also beef and chicken. The fries were hot and crispy, but I did not care for the seasoning all that much. Next time, if there is one, I will ask for no seasoning on the fries, just salt.

The menu has just about anything you can think out, so there is something on the menu for pretty much anyone.

Oh one more thing... no free refills on drinks. That annoyed but me but at least the woman behind the counter let me know. It's also on the sign and on the counter... I was blind and did not see it initially.

One more thing... the place isn't a classy joint at all but do give it a try. Limited parking at the front, but drive around the building and there are more...

The people are kind and ready to make sure your order is hot, correct, and hot when you take your first bite. It has been my favorite since I first tried it and today my husband had the lamb gyro which was both of our first taste of lamb and it was delicious. I've never had a meat that tasted this way and I enjoyed it along with him. My toddler had some as well and kept reaching for more. Aside from our experiences the lettuce is always fresh and crisp and the tomatoes are almost always freshly cut along with the red or yellow onions on some of the menu items. Seasoned food may not be everyone's pallet but it is in my wheelhouse so my family enjoys it and I suggest for the people that think it is too much spices to ask for no salt or seasoned salt on their order to keep...