When people think of Orlando, they often think about the theme parks and warm climate we are fortunate and sometimes not so fortunate to have year-round. But Orlando has also become home to a rich tapestry of culinary delights. Have you seen the growing list of diverse restaurants sprouting their wings here over the years? It’s a wonderful sight to see!
Naturally, the Lifestyle team loves to eat, and we have traversed the city to bring you our top 10 favorite dining spots. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, this list promises an adventure that will leave you craving for more.
Alexis– Orlando Restaurant Picks
Teak Neighborhood Grill and Bar
Burgers are one of my absolute favorite things to eat, so it is no surprise that Teak has easily become one of my favorite places to visit. They have an expansive list of burgers, so I get to try a new one every time I go. It makes it fun to see if the new burger tops the last one. They also have a wonderful mimosa deal during Saturday and Sunday brunch!
Reel Fish Coastal Kitchen and Bar
Reel Fish in Winter Park really is a hidden gem. I tried raw oysters for the first time here, and I’ve been hooked ever since. I’d wager to say they have the best oysters and one of the best happy hours I have ever experienced. Once when my family was visiting, I took them, and they were blown away. So now, whenever they come up from Miami, we try to visit at least once.
Daniel
Thrive Cocktail Lounge & Eatery
Thrive is a cocktail/small bites bar in Downtown Orlando. They have a very young/mid-level professional vibe that is casual but also great for dates. They have excellent drinks, and their sliders are fantastic.
The Neighborhood Eatery is a family-owned restaurant in Downtown Orlando. This Korean-American fusion restaurant has a homey feel with stellar food. I’ve lived in Korea and have eaten Korean food my entire life. Their food tastes like what I would eat in Korea, so I’ll vouch for them on that.
Kristi
I enjoy Burntwood Tavern because it’s a local eatery, and everyone knows everyone.
Fresco’s Italian is also a favorite because it is family-owned and operated, and they make all their food from scratch from generations of recipes.
Waylon
Dragonfly Robata Grill & Sushi
Dragonfly has excellent happy hour choices for food and drinks.
I enjoy T-Rex because it is more than just food; it is an experience.
Riccardo
One of my favorites is The All Italian Restaurant on Osceola Parkway because of their Pear and Gorgonzola Fiocchetti (out of this world) and their Truffle Cheese Tortellini (just excellent). It reminds me of eating home-style cooking in Italy.
Another favorite is Tapa Toro in Icon Park because they have the best Lamb Paella outside of Spain.
Catie
Kabooki holds the top spot on my favorites list. They always refresh the menu with new delights, and I’ve yet to try something I didn’t enjoy. The service is outstanding. They’re super knowledgeable, which adds to the fun of the whole experience. It’s a solid 5 stars in my book.
The Wellborn is also high on my list of favorites. Its ambiance is unmatched, and I’m completely obsessed with its nostalgic ‘Old Florida’ clubhouse vibe upstairs. The culinary offerings and craft cocktails are spot on. They mainly serve tapas and drinks, so it’s the perfect spot for a top-notch happy hour or a light dinner with friends.
If you can, we’d love for you to visit these places and tell us what you think. We also want to hear about your favorites. So, if there is a restaurant that has stolen your heart that isn’t on the list, tag us on social media and let us know where to visit next, or email us at contact@lifestylescfl.com