Today, I’m excited to spill the beans on a recent dining adventure that took me to the heart of Ford’s Garage. Known for its unique blend of vintage automotive vibes and a menu that promises American comfort food with a twist, Ford’s Garage had me intrigued. But before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let me set the stage – imagine a setting that pays homage to classic cars and the good ol’ days of automotive innovation.
Now, fasten your seatbelts as I take you on a firsthand journey through the menu, the team service model, and my unfiltered experience with the food. Are you ready for a taste of what Ford’s Garage has to offer? Let’s kick things into high gear and explore the flavors that await me at this iconic eatery!
History of Ford’s Garage
Ford’s Garage, established in 2012 by Marc Brown in Fort Myers, Florida, is a distinctive restaurant chain that pays homage to the automotive industry, particularly the legacy of the Ford Motor Company. The concept revolves around a vintage automobile-themed ambiance, resembling a 1920s service station, complete with garage doors and classic car memorabilia.
Is Ford’s Garage Related to Ford?
Ford’s Garage is not directly related to the Ford Motor Company. While the restaurant chain pays homage to the automotive industry and specifically honors the legacy of the Ford Motor Company, it is an independent business.
Ford’s Garage Menu
The menu features American comfort food with items named after classic cars and automotive components, including standout burgers and a diverse craft beer selection. The restaurant has expanded beyond its initial location, with restaurants in various states, maintaining its popularity through its unique theme and dining experience.
Ford’s Garage Team Service Model
Like many other central Florida restaurants, Ford’s Garage has made their own Ford’s Garage Team Service Model. Which adds on 20% service fee. This allows your servers and bartenders get a flat rate commission for your food order.
I’ve written a comprehensive post about it, you can find it here.
How was Ford’s Garage Food?
If you haven’t seen my Youtube video about my experience at Ford’s Garage, you can do so now. If you do not have time, I’ll explain it here.
We ordered Famous Firestone Shrimp, American Standard burgers (one with bacon), and a side of macaroni and cheese.
Fords Famous Firestone is essentially their take on “Boom Boom” shrimp. It was delicious. Only real complaint was the food was not hot. I am not talking spicy, but temperature-wise. It seemed like it was sitting there for a bit.
Now, for the side of macaroni and cheese. As you can see in the photo, there’s some DRY ASS noodles. Yes, they apparently put the cheese sauce at the bottom of the little cauldron (still wondering why it was a cauldron lol!). You have to mix the noodles with the sauce. What in the sorcery is that?
Not to mention, the sauce was lukewarm at best and thin. What? Are they getting everything from a few doors down and walking it into the restaurant? Where is the hot, fresh food?
I’ve saved the burgers for last… I wonder why? I decided to go with the American Standard burger with bacon. My mom went with the same, but without bacon. You cannot really screw up a burger, right?
Well, I guess you could, if you don’t season your patty and if you cook the patties too close to one another. Bottom half of my burger had bleu cheese on it. While, I like bleu cheese, I didn’t want that on my burger.
However, the burgers were terrible. They were dry as the Sahara Desert, they were bland (where’s the seasoning?) and they were again.. COLD. Shocking.
For $80 including the 20% service fee, I was highly disappointed with the service and the food. It would have been the same amount to go to a hot pot place such as Nine Spices Hot Pot (my review here) and we would have gotten much better service and better quality of food.
Looking for Good Food in Central Florida?
And that, my fellow flavor enthusiasts, brings us to the end of our culinary road trip through the iconic Ford’s Garage. It’s been a ride filled with surprises from the vintage ambiance that pays tribute to the automotive legacy to the unique Team Service Model.
As we ease into the pits, I can’t help but share a tip for your next adventure – if you find yourself in Central Florida craving a seafood feast, look no further than Boston Lobster Feast. Dive into an ocean of delectable options, from succulent lobsters to mouthwatering crab legs – it’s a seafood lover’s paradise.
And for those seeking a crafty twist to their seafood experience, Crafty Crab is a must-visit. With its diverse menu and creative seafood offerings, it’s a culinary haven that promises to tantalize your taste buds.
As we conclude this chapter, I hope my Ford’s Garage escapade has satisified your curiosity and appetite. Stay tuned for more foodie adventures, and until then, happy exploring and savoring the flavors of Central Florida!
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