Last updated on January 13, 2021
In 1930, George Jenkins founded Publix in Winter Haven. Despite the depression, his stores were successful and quickly grew throughout Central Florida. In 1936, he opened the first Publix in Orlando, located on 808 E Washington St in downtown.
As new and larger locations of Publix were being built, the smaller and older locations were being closed. In 1984, the building became Dexter’s of Thornton Park, a favorite among locals for brunch that uses fresh and locally sourced ingredients. Wendy Connor from The Abbey and Todd Ulmer of Stardust Lounge will be opening a Hawaiian-inspired concept named "The 808" in the location. The opening date is to be determined.
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