Mission Resort + Club (Howey-in-the-Hills, Fla.) announced the opening of Conquistador Bar & Restaurant, a fully reimagined dining experience in Lake County’s Howey-in-the-Hills community.
The extensive renovation unites the former La Margarita and El Conquistador restaurants into a single, cohesive space that pairs a refined guest experience with a strong sense of community and connection.
Mission Resort + Club partnered with Interior Image Group (IIG) to bring the vision for Conquistador Bar & Restaurant to life. The reimagined space boasts 164 seats, including an outdoor dining area.
“This project was all about honoring our history while making the experience even better for the people who come here week after week,” says Cindy Staley, General Manager, Mission Resort + Club. “We listened closely to those folks and especially our members, and that feedback shaped everything from doubling the size of the bar to knocking down the wall to combine the two previous concepts into one. The goal was to build something that feels just as right for a quick drink as it does for a full evening out.”
The culinary program blends Spanish influences with Floridian ingredients and classic techniques. The menu encourages sharing and variety, with a focus on small plates, seafood, and boldly flavored entrées. The cocktail program continues the global perspective with a lineup of citrus-forward and spice-driven offerings, and a robust beer list featuring Florida-based craft brews alongside domestic selections. New spirit-free cocktails ensure an inclusive beverage experience for all guests. Dish highlights include Seafood Paella, Lobster Fritas, and Braised Short Rib.
Adjacent to Conquistador Bar & Restaurant, another newly unveiled space, The Great Room, is a warm, multifunctional gathering space designed to transition seamlessly from productivity to relaxation.
“This space really came from listening to how our guests and members are using the resort and what they felt was missing,” continues Staley. “There simply wasn’t a natural place to gather, so we invested in creating The Great Room. Formerly the El Gitano meeting room, it can still be reserved for private functions, but it now also serves as an inviting, everyday space that works just as well for meeting up, working on a laptop, or relaxing with a drink.”
