Our Story

In the mid 1890’s, George Russell started a Pineapple Farm on the North shores of Lake  Ivanhoe spanning to the South side where the DoubleTree Hotel sits today. He single-handedly  made Lake Ivanhoe the center of the US Pineapple Industry as a major supplier of pineapples  throughout the US. When Puerto Rico and Cuba farms began undercutting his prices in 1910, Mr.  Russell ended his Pineapple business and opened Orlando’s first attraction park, Russell’s Point, later  called Joyland. Joyland became the “favorite gathering place for Orlando-ians of all ages” with water slides, swimming, picnic areas and boating. 

In 2020, longtime restaurateurs Philippe and Zoe Villain decided to open Russell’s on Lake  Ivanhoe. A nod to Mr. Russell, his Pineapple Farm and his entrepreneurial spirit which carries  throughout the village today.  

At Russell’s on Lake Ivanhoe, Guests enjoy cuisine inspired by the finest restaurants of New York  City, California, Paris, France and the Far East. The relaxed upscale boathouse setting overlooks Lake  Ivanhoe and is reminiscent of the views visitors experienced on that same spot where Mr. Russell’s  boathouse also sat. 

As longstanding residents of Orlando, the owners have dedicated themselves to contributing to the  outstanding, Florida quality of life and are committed to being “Humbly Excellent”. Using the finest  methods of food and drink preparation, unique and flavorful recipes, stellar service and attention to  detail, to create memorable experiences.