Downtown Ocala Bakery and Coffee Shop Night Owl Closes After Less than Six Months

Saga CommunicationsThe Night Owl Bakery in downtown Ocala offered fresh breads and other treats in addition to coffee and sandwiches. Scott Harrell/352Today

OCALA, FL (352today.com) – Comfy, cozy, amazing-smelling downtown Ocala bakery and breakfast stop-off Night Owl has closed, less than six months after opening in November 2025.

Formerly located at 56 SE 1st Ave., Night Owl took over a spot that previously housed the second outpost of Ocala bakery mainstay Soleil, which itself gave up the prime real estate to concentrate its business in a single location.

The new bakery–named “Night Owl” in tribute to the long overnight hours owners put in baking fresh bread, bagels and other tastiness for morning customers–had long been a dream for owner Jessica Ferrara. Competition for the downtown coffee-meeting crowd is fierce, with plenty of stylish and competent spots just a short walk away; however, Night Owl’s funky, bookish shabby-chic aesthetic and insanely good breakfast sandwiches and breads (we were always partial to the jalapeno-cheddar sourdough) seemed poised to set it apart.

According to reports, the space is already available for lease; interested parties can email soleilocala@gmail.com for more information.