24 Middleton has opened in Middleton, and its name carries more than one meaning.

Jordan McDonough and Jonathan “JT” Tubby are the creative minds behind the new neighborhood bistro in the newest extension of The Villages and are redefining the local hospitality industry.

The pair also own the much-loved Edna’s on the Green and previously operated Angler’s, but the story of 24 Middleton starts with the name itself.

It’s drawn in part from the building’s original designation as Building 24 in early plans for the downtown development. The name also carries a personal meaning tied to 24 Middleton Ave. in Sidcup, England, where JT’s grandparents met during World War II.

The connection resonated, grounding the restaurant in both place and history.

General manager John Wilkinson says passion has guided the restaurant from the beginning, starting with Jordan and JT.

“Passion drives everything here,” John says. “This has been a vision of theirs for years. They worked together on cruise ships, traveled the world and experienced diverse cuisines, and that eclectic food background really shows here.”

John says the focus extends beyond the menu and into the culture they are building.

“Some of our staff isn’t from the industry per se, but they love food and want to be part of this team and this experience,” he says.

He describes the restaurant as a neighborhood bistro that still aims to challenge expectations.

“We use fresh, local ingredients as much as we can and change with the season when we can, with the people and with demand,” he says. “We want to earn every guest.”

Hospitality is central to that goal.

“Hospitality isn’t just putting a plate on a table,” he says. “We want to open the door, greet every guest, touch every table and make it an experience, not just a meal. We want people to feel at home and feel welcome.”

He says the team is focused on growing alongside the community.

“We’re not here for us,” he says. “We’re here for everyone else. We adapt and we earn.”

The concept feels intentional, blending a laid-back atmosphere with chef-driven food and an open kitchen that puts the process on display.

Executive Chef Chris Lay says the open kitchen, while initially intimidating, has become one of the team’s favorite features.

“We really all love it,” Chris says. “It took some getting used to because you can’t hide, but it really adds another layer to the experience.”

The menu is still evolving, with weekly specials that help shape what comes next.

“In an ideal world, I’m a seasonal-forward chef, and JT has given me the room to grow,” he says.

The menu reads like it could be from Napa Valley or Loudoun County in Virginia. Fresh table bread with rotating daily dips, roasted beet salad, short rib ragu and grilled branzino are just some of the offerings that stand out.

The wine list is extensive and well thought out, and the cocktails are freshly made to order and include the Gin Tonica, Lucky Stripe and zero-proof Ren’s lemonade, named after bartender Brandon Johnson’s son.

They have started to add wine dinners to the calendar and offer a robust happy hour every day from 3–5pm with drink specials and a wide-ranging menu of small plates. The chef’s counter has available seating on a first come basis, and if you are a foodie or just cuisine curious, it comes highly recommended.

7655 Middleton Dr., / 352.461.1590 / 24middleton.com