One year after opening as Harry & The Natives, the waterfront restaurant recently celebrated its first anniversary with a festive luau on Lake Okahumpka. The restaurant recently simplified its name to The Natives while keeping the same popular menu and hospitality that have helped it build a loyal following.

“We are honestly just so overwhelmed,” says partner Scott Bianculli. “It’s been a year and what a year it’s been.”

“We weren’t sure how the community would embrace us, but it’s been incredible. We have outperformed our projected numbers but, much more importantly, we have made so many friends and connected with The Villages residents and that is what keeps us going. We are blown away by the kindness.”

Scott was there along with partners Lance Smith and Anne MacArthur to welcome guests.

Many arrived wearing Hawaiian shirts, received colorful leis and tropical drinks at the door, then gathered for an evening of island-inspired food, music and celebration.

Among those celebrating were Keith and Kathy Turtenwald, who hold the distinction of being the restaurant’s very first customers.

“We were the first ones in line,” says Kathy. “It kind of just worked out that way. We thought they were going to open sooner that day, so rather than go somewhere else, we waited patiently and spent the first dollar, which is up on the wall.”

The couple has remained loyal regulars ever since.

“We come here multiple times per week and I honestly don’t think we have ever had a bad meal here,” says Kathy. “Everyone knows us by name.”

Bar manager Jonathan Forsythe says the welcoming atmosphere extends beyond the guests.

“I came here last October and they welcomed me in,” he says.

In the hospitality industry for more than 30 years, Jonathan says he was impressed by the encouragement he was given to be himself.

“It just clicked with me here,” says Jonathan. “I’m a people guy and they have given me a chance to flourish and grow with the concept.”

He also enjoys the festive atmosphere.

“It’s like hosting a party here for 400 people every day,” he says. “The neighborhood has been amazing. It’s so fun.”

A steel drum musician provided the soundtrack as guests enjoyed a buffet of suckling pig, chicken skewers, fried rice, potato salad, poke and fresh pineapple tossed with li hing mui, a sweet and tangy Hawaiian plum powder.

With its first year in the books, the partners say they’re grateful for the friendships they’ve built with the community and are looking ahead to many more years on the lake, with hopes of growing the business within the year.

“There is more for us ahead,” says Lance. “And we have the community of The Villages to thank.”

 Photos: Gina Horan