Since opening in 2011, Hurricane Dockside Grill has welcomed locals, visitors and boaters exploring the Harris Chain of Lakes to its waterfront home along the Dead River.

Whether guests arrive by car or pull into one of the restaurant’s 26 boat slips, they come for casual food, live entertainment and a front-row seat to life on the water.

For front of house manager Rendia Lewandowski, the restaurant’s story is written in the people and memories that have returned year after year.

“I’ve seen this place grow larger to fit more people,” Rendia says. “And this may sound crazy, but I’ve also watched the alligators grow up here over the years.”

She calls them “baby puppy, puppy or big puppy.” Either way, the Hurricane’s staff takes care to make sure the local gators aren’t fed people food.

“They started as babies, then juveniles, and they’re still here. They come to visit and just hang out. We don’t feed them, of course, but it’s fun watching them grow over the years.”

The menu has evolved over the years as well, but she says the restaurant’s commitment to quality has stayed the same. Fresh, never-frozen burgers and signature wings remain customer favorites, while seasonal specials, like the current seafood boils, give regulars something new to enjoy.

Rendia has also watched employees grow alongside the restaurant. Some started as teenagers, left for college, returned during the summer and eventually came back as guests.

Hurricane Dockside Grill has become part of the Tavares community, participating in local events, food competitions and parades.

Nothing captures the restaurant better than a busy weekend.

“When the parking lot is packed and all the boat slips are full, the energy is incredible,” Rendia says. “It’s all because of the lake. Seeing the boats lined up and families of every age enjoying themselves is something special.”

Hurricane Dockside Grill / 3351 W. Burleigh Blvd., Tavares / 352.508.5137 / hurricanedockside.com

Photos: Gina Horan