LEESBURG, Fla. — A decade ago, Allison and Jack Braton took a leap of faith in downtown Leesburg, opening a restaurant with a bold vision and a commitment to quality. Today, Turners Kitchen + Bar is celebrating its 10th anniversary as one of Lake County’s premier dining destinations, known for its refined yet welcoming atmosphere and dedication to fresh, local ingredients. The restaurant located at 114 South 5th Street in Leesburg, FL 34748 has become a local favorite.

(One of the top appetizers on the menu is the delicious take on fried green tomatoes.)

A New American restaurant with subtle nods to South Carolina’s Lowcountry, Turners offers an elevated dining experience that blends tradition with creativity. The menu features innovative takes on American favorites — from hand-cut steaks and fresh seafood to hearty salads, unique starters and artisan sandwiches — all crafted with an emphasis on sustainability and seasonality.

“We try to spin traditional recipes for every dish on our menu,” said co-owner and chef Jack Braton. “It’s not enough for me to do the status quo. Our menu items always start with a simple inspiration.”

(Everything is seasoned to perfection and crafted with love and care.)

That inspiration begins with the ingredients. Turners prides itself on sourcing responsibly and locally whenever possible. From free-range beef and line-caught seafood to organic vegetables and hydroponic garnishes, every element of each dish is thoughtfully selected. Even the oils, vinegars and fresh-baked bread reflect the Bratons’ commitment to excellence.

“When I had the opportunity to open Turners with Allison’s support, we pledged to do it the right way,” Jack said. “To use products that are unique, locally sourced when possible, and prepared in a way that makes people want to come back.”

The restaurant is named in tribute both to the humble kitchen utensil and to Turner’s Bakery and Cafeteria, a beloved Leesburg staple from the 1940s and ’50s that once occupied the same space. The homage reflects the Bratons’ respect for culinary history and their belief in downtown Leesburg’s potential.

(The incredible White Chocolate Chunk Bread Pudding is a must try.)

“When we opened Turners, downtown Leesburg was just starting to turn a corner,” Jack said. “We believed in the community, and it’s been amazing to watch it come back to life. Now, we’re seeing businesses flock to downtown. It’s become a destination again.”

Turners’ seating policy is intentionally intimate, designed for parties of four or fewer to preserve the quality of service and ambiance. “We’re engineered for small-table service,” Jack said. “That way, we can focus on each guest and really blow their socks off.”

(The Braton family are celebrating 10 years of being in Leesburg.)

As Turners Kitchen + Bar celebrates 10 years in business, the Bratons are not just marking time — they’re honoring the relationships built within the community. This is local dining at its finest, and the Bratons’ commitment is a testament to what’s possible with passion and purpose.

“We want every guest who walks through our doors to experience something different, something special,” Jack said. “That’s always been our goal — and always will be.”