A Food Lover’s Guide to Orlando
Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a casual diner, Orlando, Florida has a tantalizing array of gastronomic delights that will take your taste buds on a journey around the world. From the comfort food of classic American diners to gourmet dining in five-star restaurants, the food scene in Orlando is as vibrant and diverse as the city itself. Strap in as we embark on a culinary tour of the City Beautiful.
The Basics
One of the key things to know about Orlando is its incredibly diverse food culture. Thanks to the city’s multicultural population and a strong tourism industry, the city’s culinary landscape has a broad spectrum of cuisines and dining experiences. Whatever you crave – from comfort food to exotic delicacies, Orlando has got you covered.
American Fare
Orlando, like any great American city, is rife with spots to savor the quintessential comfort foods of the nation. Enjoy mouthwatering burgers at places like Beth’s Burger Bar, or savor a succulent steak at the likes of Linda’s La Cantina. For those with a penchant for the sea, seafood lovers can dig into fresh oysters, clams, and more at High Tide Harry’s. And, of course, let’s not forget about the Orlando Farmer’s Market, where you can sample the best of local produce and artisanal fare.
International Cuisine
In Orlando, the world is literally at your plate. From Italian to Indian, from Japanese to Jamaican, the city is brimming with international eateries offering authentic and innovative dishes.
Indulge in the flavors of Italy at Prato, located in Winter Park, known for its modern Italian cuisine and a lively ambiance. For a taste of the exotic, visit Saffron Indian Cuisine, which offers a variety of dishes from different regions of India. Craving sushi? Try Kabooki Sushi, where you’ll find not only beautifully presented traditional sushi but also innovative dishes that push the boundaries.
The city is also home to a bustling Latin food scene. Enjoy fresh and delicious Mexican dishes at Border Grill Fresh-Mex, or immerse yourself in the rich flavors of Cuban cuisine at Black Bean Deli. If you’re looking for Caribbean vibes, Bahama Breeze is the place to be.
Orlando’s Signature Dishes
Although Orlando is a melting pot of different cuisines, there are a few signature dishes that you absolutely must try during your visit. Gator Tail, a Florida specialty, is a must-try for adventurous eaters. For a quick snack, grab a delicious Cuban sandwich, a nod to the city’s Cuban influence. And, for dessert, a slice of Key Lime Pie is an absolute must.
Street Food
If you’re looking to eat like a local, then exploring Orlando’s street food scene is an absolute must. With a bevy of food trucks serving everything from hot dogs to arepas, Orlando’s street food scene is eclectic and vibrant. Don’t miss Tako Cheena’s creative and delicious Asian-Latin fusion tacos, or enjoy a heavenly melt at the Grilled Cheese Truck.
Desserts and Sweet Treats
For those with a sweet tooth, Orlando offers an array of dessert spots to satisfy your cravings. Try the donuts at Valkyrie Doughnuts, where they offer unique flavors and vegan options. For those hot Florida days, cool off with a delicious ice cream at Kelly’s Homemade Ice Cream. And if you’re looking for a truly magical dessert experience, the Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen at Universal’s CityWalk is a chocolate lover’s dream come true.
Dining at Theme Parks
Last, but certainly not least, are the myriad dining options available within Orlando’s world-famous theme parks. At Disney World alone, you can travel from the African savannah of Animal Kingdom’s Tiffins restaurant, to the charming Italian cityscape of Epcot’s Via Napoli. Universal’s CityWalk is not to be overlooked, with a broad range of restaurants, from fast-casual eateries to fine dining.
And don’t forget about the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, where you can enjoy a frothy Butterbeer or a feast at the Leaky Cauldron. Whatever your culinary preference, the theme parks in Orlando have something to offer.
Orlando’s Food Festivals
If you’re lucky enough to visit Orlando during one of its many food festivals, you’re in for a treat. These festivals are a showcase of the city’s culinary talent and a fantastic way to taste a wide array of dishes. The Orlando Food and Wine Festival in the fall is a must for any food lover. Sample food from Orlando’s top restaurants while sipping on fine wines and listening to live music. Don’t miss the annual EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival as well, where you can sample dishes from around the world without leaving the park!
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Orlando is also a paradise for those following a plant-based diet. From vegetarian-friendly eateries to fully vegan restaurants, you’ll find an array of options to choose from. Check out Market On South for some delectable vegan comfort food or Ethos Vegan Kitchen for their renowned ‘chicken’ and waffles. Sanctum Cafe is another local favorite offering hearty and delicious plant-based meals.
Seafood Specialities
Being in Florida, you simply cannot miss out on the fresh seafood that Orlando has to offer. For a casual, laid-back seafood experience, head over to Winter Park Fish Company where you can enjoy everything from fish tacos to seared scallops. For a more upscale dining experience, try Paddlefish at Disney Springs. Housed in a replica of a 19th-century paddleboat, it offers panoramic views of Lake Buena Vista and a menu teeming with delectable seafood dishes.
Coffee Culture
Orlando’s coffee culture is thriving, with an array of local coffee shops dotted across the city. Lineage Coffee Roasting, located in East End Market, is a popular spot known for its single-origin beans and pour-over coffee. Downtown Credo, with several locations around Orlando, is a not-for-profit coffee shop offering high-quality, direct-trade coffee. Vespr Coffeebar is another must-visit, where the focus is on crafting beautiful and delicious beverages.
Orlando’s Breweries
If you’re a beer aficionado, you’ll be glad to know Orlando’s craft beer scene is flourishing. There are a number of breweries where you can sample unique and refreshing brews. Check out Orlando Brewing, which offers organic handcrafted brews. Another popular spot is the Crooked Can Brewing Company in Winter Garden, which offers a variety of artisanal beers in a relaxed atmosphere.
Local Markets
Visiting local markets is another great way to explore Orlando’s food scene. The East End Market, a neighborhood market and food hall, is an absolute must-visit. Here, you’ll find everything from locally sourced produce, pastries, to artisanal cheeses. Another popular spot is the Lake Eola Farmer’s Market, where you can sample everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to homemade jams and honey.
So there you have it, a comprehensive guide to the food lover’s paradise that is Orlando. As you can see, the culinary landscape of this vibrant city is as diverse as it is delicious. Whether you’re a casual diner or a seasoned foodie, the city of Orlando promises an unforgettable culinary journey. Now all that’s left to do is pack your appetite and get ready to embark on a gastronomic adventure!