The Mason Jar’s Story: 45+ Years of Serving Umatilla with Love and Tradition
The Mason Jar’s Story: 45+ Years of Serving Umatilla with Love and Tradition
Every small town has that one restaurant that feels like home. In Umatilla, that place is The Mason Jar.
If you’re searching for The Mason Jar Umatilla history, you’ll uncover more than just dates and ownership changes, you’ll find a story rooted in tradition, community, and comfort food that brings people together. For over 45 years, The Mason Jar has been more than a restaurant. It’s been a gathering place, a second kitchen, and a piece of the town’s heart.
One of the Oldest Restaurants in Umatilla and Still Going Strong
The Mason Jar first opened its doors in 1979, right on SR-19 in the heart of Umatilla. Back then, it was a modest homestyle diner with a single mission: serve good food to good people.
Today, that mission hasn’t changed but the impact has grown. As one of the oldest restaurants in Umatilla, we’ve seen generations come through our doors:
Couples on their first dates who now bring their grandchildren
Retirees who start their mornings with coffee and pancakes
Families who make it a post-church Sunday tradition
We’ve watched Umatilla change around us but inside The Mason Jar, the focus has always remained the same: great food, warm service, and a seat at the table for everyone.
A Timeline of Community and Comfort
1979: The Mason Jar opens in Umatilla with a small but mighty staff and a dream of bringing homestyle cooking to the community.
1980s–90s: The restaurant becomes a local favorite for breakfast and lunch, earning a reputation for scratch-made comfort food.
2000s: As nearby towns grow, The Mason Jar continues to thrive as a proud local institution, known for consistency and friendly service.
Present: Under new ownership, The Mason Jar stays true to its roots while updating systems, training, and community engagement. Weekly specials like Fried Chicken Thursdays and Fish Fry Fridays help carry traditions into a new generation.
Why the Mason Jar Matters to Umatilla
We're not just a restaurant, we're part of Umatilla’s story. When you ask locals about their favorite memories, The Mason Jar often plays a role.
“I used to come here with my dad after fishing trips. Now I bring my kids. Same great food, same feeling.” — Gary W., Umatilla
“This place feels like family. I know I’ll be greeted with a smile and leave with a full belly.” — Nancy D., Altoona
“It’s one of the few places left that still feels real. No gimmicks—just honest food made right.” — Megan H., Mount Dora
That kind of loyalty isn’t built overnight. It’s earned, plate by plate, year after year.
Honoring the Past While Looking Toward the Future
We’re proud of our legacy, but we’re even more excited about where we’re going. With a new generation of ownership, we’re bringing fresh energy to preserve the tradition while raising the bar.
That includes:
Strengthening staff training and hospitality standards
Expanding our community outreach and local marketing
Investing in updated systems (like online menus and social media)
Creating family-friendly dining experiences that keep guests coming back
We’ll never lose sight of the heart of this place, but we’re committed to keeping it thriving for the next 45 years, too.
Come Experience the Legacy for Yourself
Looking for more than just a meal? Come see why The Mason Jar is one of the most beloved and enduring restaurants in Umatilla.
Location:37534 SR-19, Umatilla, FL 32784
Hours: Tuesday–Sunday: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM Monday: 6:00 AM – 2:00 PM
(Open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
View our full menu: Menus | The Mason Jar in Umatilla, FL
The Mason Jar: A Umatilla Tradition Since 1979
There’s a reason we’ve lasted this long and it’s not just the biscuits. It’s because we believe in doing things the right way, treating people like family, and honoring the roots that built us.
So the next time you search where to eat in Umatilla, remember: tradition is still alive and well at The Mason Jar.
We’d love to share it with you.