7 Things Our Ocala Editor is Loving Right Now

As advocates for small businesses, The Scout Guide editors are continually scouting their communities for local finds to share and celebrate. With their fingers on the pulse, they are also excellent sources for unique recommendations. Recently, we caught up with The Scout Guide Ocala editor Grace Clayton to find out what she’s really excited about these days. Here, she shares her current obsessions, from her essential reading to her go-to weeknight recipe.

1. WHERE I’M EATING

La Cuisine // “I have a soft spot for a good French bistro and La Cuisine delivers every time. Located in the heart of Ocala’s historic downtown, this sweet spot has all the old-world charm of a romantic getaway in Paris.”

2. WHAT I’M WEARING

Samshield Adele Breech from Exceptional Equestrian // “In Ocala, my typical day almost always involves riding a horse at some point, so I always wear my riding clothes and try to style them up with a fun, cute flare that can transition from the barn to a casual business day. These pants are the perfect foundation.”

3. WHAT I’M MAKING

Baked Krispy Chicken from Ivy on the Square // “My biggest food weakness is fried chicken. Ivy’s version is my favorite in town and they were kind enough to part with the recipe. This rendition is baked, and it’s so easy to prepare—and memorize—making it a weeknight staple that never disappoints.” 


Baked Krispy Chicken from Ivy on the Square


INGREDIENTS:

  • 8 boneless chicken breasts 
  • 1 stick of butter, melted 
  • 1-2 cups of crushed Rice Krispies
  • salt and pepper 

INSTRUCTIONS:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Dip chicken in melted butter, then roll in crushed Rice Krispies. Bake in a shallow pan for 25 minutes until golden brown. 

4. WHAT I’M GIFTING

Beaded Dog Collars from Exceptional Equestrian // “The Kenyan Collection collars are stunning works of art and the dog lovers in my life love receiving them as presents. They have lots of options, but my favorite pattern is “Hippo Circus.”

5. WHERE I’M SHOPPING

Narcissus Gainesville and Odette // “There are so many great shops in our area, and luckily these are shoppable online so I can share them with you. I hit up Odette for stunning wardrobe builders and incredible accessories. Narcissus Gainsesville is my go-to for on-trend pieces.”

6. WHAT I’M USING

Glymed CBD Facial Mist and Gentle Facial Wash from Bare Skin Beautiful // “I take my skincare regimen pretty seriously and this facial mist and wash has been a game changer. The face wash has 10% glycolic acid that helps lighten and brighten skin. I follow up with the mist, infused with CBD and vitamin B3 that helps soothe any irritation. It’s also a great quick refresher when I’m on the go.”

7. WHAT I’M READING

The Scout Guide!  // “Since becoming an owner of TSG Ocala a little over a year ago, I’ve taken a deep dive into all the cities with The Scout Guide. It’s become my go-to resource when traveling and planning future adventures. Each guide is so gorgeous and captures the essence of each city.”

Feature photo by Reba Hicks. To keep up with Grace’s current loves and all things local in her area, follow The Scout Guide Ocala on Instagram or visit ocala.thescoutguide.com. Is The Scout Guide missing from your town? You—or someone you know—could be the next owner. Let’s start the conversation about bringing The Scout Guide to your area here.