Whether you’ve been to the city once or have lived here for years, it’s no secret Orlando does not play around about its culinary scene. And when local foodies have a favorite, it’s really their favorite.
Unshaded lines and hours-long waitlists are no match for hungry Orlandoans. Some are much older than others, but all of the following restaurants are known for their insatiable fans and cult-like followings.
Stasio’s
2320 E. Robinson St., Orlando“Stasio’s where have you been all my life? Were you hiding in plain sight? Hell, maybe I’d still be living in Florida if you texted me back… 5 stars all the way. Oh, and don’t skip on the cannolis. Some of the best I’ve had in recent memory. My family and I devoured these for a midnight snack; you know, as Italians do!” – Matt C. Credit: Image via Google Maps
Cuban Sandwiches to Go
1605 Lee Road, OrlandoThis walk-up restaurant is a perennial Best of Orlando winner for its traditional Cuban cuisine and unique efficiency. Even tourists know what’s up. Credit: Image via Google Maps
Hot Dog Heaven on a Sunday
Hot Dog Heaven is in fact not open on Sundays and Mondays. You’ll have to find your dog fix elsewhere. Credit: Image via Google Maps
Jeff’s Bagel Run
Various locationsWith Central Florida locations in College Park, Ocoee, Winter Park, Clermont and Oviedo, the New York-style bagel shop is hard to miss. The chainlet’s classic and more over-the-top bagel flavors and coffees continue to draw in the crowds. Check their social media for weekly flavor specials. Credit: Photo via Jeff's Bagel Run/Facebook
Susuru
8548 Palm Parkway, OrlandoChef Lewis Lin and managing partner Kenny Ly came together to create this “retro-themed izakaya” offering exquisite ramen, yakitori and takoyaki. Stuffed with Showa-era collectibles, vintage ads and decorations, Susuru is an experience and a dining destination all in one. Credit: Photo via Susuru/Facebook
The Strand
807 N. Mills Ave., OrlandoThe Strand has embedded itself into Orlando’s restaurant scene with dishes made from scratch and daily specials using fresh, seasonal ingredients. This popular joint also keeps a rotating inventory of craft beers and wine. Credit: Photo via The Strand/Google Maps
Best Cheesesteak
Winner: LaSpada’s Original Cheesesteaks and Hoagies
Finalists: Kappy’s Subs, Cavo’s Bar and Kitchen Credit: Photo via LaSpada’s Original Cheesesteaks and Hoagies/Facebook
Briarpatch
252 N. Park Ave., Winter ParkOne of Winter Park’s most iconic and long-standing breakfast joints serves up contemporary American cuisine and brunch daily. With breakfast goodies like blueberry-stuffed pancakes and raspberry-and-brie stuffed brioche french toast, it’s not hard to find a reason to bring the family here. Credit: Photo via Briarpatch/Yelp
Kadence
1809 Winter Park Road, OrlandoWith a Michelin star, a reservation required for dinner, and a secret menu, this sushi and sake bar is a hot commodity. There are only nine seats, and tickets range from $155-$175 for one meal, so this is not your go-to for a casual night out. But if you’re in the mood to splurge on some to-die-for sushi, Kadence might be calling your name. Credit: Photo via Kadence/Facebook
Shiraz Market
188 S. U.S. Highway 17-92, LongwoodThis Middle Eastern market has a selection of grocery items as well as traditional Mediterranean treats. Yelp reviewers and our own dining critic, Faiyaz Kara, have raved about Shiraz’s falafel, Turkish delight and baklava among many, many other eats. Credit: Image via Google Maps
Flavors Nigerian Restaurant
3530 S. Orange Ave., OrlandoSpecializing in authentic Nigerian cuisine, Flavors Nigerian Restaurant is owned by Ola Bello and her brother Zeke. In our 2020 review of the restaurant, Orlando Weekly commended the spot for its flavors and sense of community: “Grilled meat, be it kushiyaki, shish kebab, koobideh, satay, mishkaki or souvlaki, is common denominator cuisine — an accessible entry point into a culture’s fare.” Credit: Photo by Rob Bartlett
Papa Llama
2840 Curry Ford Road, OrlandoOne Michelin star
This spatially tiny and unassuming Peruvian spot has one Michelin star and features live-fire cooking and an impressive tasting menu in a warm, inviting atmosphere. Credit: Photo via Papa Llama/Google Maps
Best Date Restaurant
Winner: Prato
Finalists: Christner’s Prime Steak and Lobster, Maxine’s on Shine Credit: Photo via Prato/Facebook
Kappy’s Subs
501 N. Orlando Ave., MaitlandFamily-owned since 1967, Kappy’s Subs offers a little glimpse into Orlando’s restaurant history (and is newly celebrating its return from the dead after a closure scare earlier this year). The spot serves classic American fare (like subs, burgers and dogs) across a good old-fashioned all American diner counter. If you’re a big group, you might want to plan to pick up your sandwiches to go. Credit: Photo via Kappy's Subs/website
Nile Ethiopian
7048 International Drive, OrlandoThis cozy restaurant in the heart of the tourist strip is one of the best places in town to enjoy Ethiopian food — or try it for the first time. Order a combo platter (meat or veggie) and scoop it with spongy injera bread instead of utensils. First-timers may want to go easy on the kitfo, a spicy steak tartare. Credit: Photo via Nile Ethiopian/Yelp
High Tide Harry’s
4645 S. Semoran Blvd., OrlandoThis decked-out fish spot boasts longtime local ties, fervent fans and a laid-back, “no frills” approach to seafood. Since 1995, High Tide Harry’s has been serving burgers, ribs, shrimp, lobster, fresh fish and more. Credit: Image via Google Maps
Tori Tori
720 N. Mills Ave., Orlando“If you’re in the mood for exceptional Japanese cuisine, Tori Tori is a standout spot that delivers on both quality and flavor. From the moment you step inside, the ambience sets the tone: modern yet cozy, with a touch of traditional Japanese design that makes you feel like you’re dining at a hidden gem in Tokyo.” — Eric M. Credit: Photo via Tori Tori/Facebook
Bagel King
1455 Semoran N. Circle, CasselberryBagel King is a go-to destination for bagel and breakfast lovers all over Central Florida. The casual, counter-serve spot has been operating since 1977 and is home of the “kettle-baked bagel.” The menu also features various soups, salads and sandwiches. Bagel King is open daily from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Credit: Image via Google Maps
Zaru
1114 E. Colonial Drive, OrlandoThe concept is by James Beard Award-nominated restaurateurs Johnny and Jimmy Tung. Zaru’s intimate and striking 25-seat dining room features udon noodles made from Japanese flour sourced from Kagawa Prefecture, the birthplace of udon, and offered in both hot and cold options, with and without broths, along with freshly fried tempura and a host of add-ons for a custom-built bowl. Credit: Photo via Zaru/Instagram
Kabooki Sushi
7705 Turkey Lake Road, Orlando Chef Henry Moso is what makes the sushi game so strong at this high-end spot. There are a handful of rolls, none of which you’ll find at your average sushi joint, but it’s mostly sashimi and nigiri. Credit: Photo via Kabooki Sandlake/Facebook
Cafe Tu Tu Tango
8625 International Drive, OrlandoIf dinner and a show is what you’re looking for, this funky tapas spot is the place to go. Cafe Tu Tu Tango has been serving the Orlando community for more than 30 years, offering creative food and drink specials every weekday, plus live music and relaxed patio seating, too. With tons of sharable plates to choose from, signature cocktails, and artists who paint while you eat, Cafe Tu Tu Tango is an attraction in itself. Credit: Photo via Café Tu Tu Tango/Facebook
Domu
3201 Corrine Drive, Orlando, and 7600 Dr. Phillips Blvd., OrlandoWith two locations in town, Domu offers double the opportunity to relish their delectable noodles and Asian fusion treats. Credit: Photo via Domu/Facebook
The Ravenous Pig
565 W. Fairbanks Ave., Winter ParkThe Ravenous Pig offers inventive New American eats, an in-house taproom and hand-crafted cocktails. The stylish gastropub (with adjoining beer garden) asks that you make reservations because there’s often a wait to get into this foodie heaven — definitely worth the splurge. Credit: Photo via The Ravenous Pig/Facebook
Best West Orlando Restaurant
Winner: Lee and Rick’s Oyster Bar
Finalists: RusTeak Ocoee, Taste of Chengdu Credit: Photo via LeeandRicksOysterBar.com
Lam’s Garden
2505 E. Colonial Drive, OrlandoFamily-owned Lam’s Garden has been offering straightforward, traditional Chinese cuisine (and dim sum service) since it was opened in 1989. It’s packed out on holidays with Chinese families and college kids catching up on their holiday break. Credit: Photo via Lam's Garden/Facebook
Best Steakhouse
Winner: Linda’s La Cantina
Finalists: Christner’s Prime Steak and Lobster, Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse and Wine Bar Credit: Image via Google Maps
Se7en Bites
617 N. Primrose Drive, OrlandoKnown for Southern-style food and incredible baked goods, the line at Se7en Bites is always out the door on weekends. It’s for a good reason, too. The spot is perfect for brunch, with its menu of tasty pastries, biscuits and gravy, primavera Benedict and meatloaf sandwiches. Plus, it’s Guy Fieri-approved. Credit: Photo via Se7en Bites/Yelp
Maxine’s on Shine
337 Shine Ave., OrlandoMaxine’s on Shine offers regular live music, a hefty comfort food-filled menu, and a classic weekend brunch. It’s the perfect for a relaxing or a romantic meal. Credit: Photo via Maxine's on Shine/Facebook
Beefy King
424 N. Bumby Ave., OrlandoThis Central Florida meaty institution has been filling hungry Orlandoans’ stomachs with the best roast beef (and turkey, ham or pastrami) sandwiches since 1968. Beefy King also offers milkshakes and their own spin on the classic tater tot, Beefy Spuds. You wouldn’t want to deny this City Beautiful classic to the out-of-towners. Credit: Image via Google Maps
Taste of Chengdu
4856 New Broad St., OrlandoBib Gourmand
Bib Gourmand restaurant Taste of Chengdu dishes out authentic Sichuan cuisine with an expansive menu of flavor combinations and traditional eats. Credit: Photo via Taste of Chengdu/Instagram