Reservation site OpenTable sorted through local search results to help pinpoint which new “neighborhood” spots are getting the most buzz around Central Florida. Here’s a list of the spots they say are local gems, and exactly what some diners are saying about them.
And, for no reason at all, you could also check out our rundown of all the place our readers deemed their favorite neighborhood eateries around Orlando.
6941 Lake Nona Blvd., Orlando
“We had a short wait beyond our reservation time, but we were seated as soon as a table became available. We started with the reverse Buffalo oven fired wings. They were amazing and some of the best I’ve ever had! Then we got the meat pizza which also amazing. The staff was very attentive and checked in with us throughout our dinner.” — Kim
216 N. Park Ave., Winter Park
“Tabla – all of their locations – is one of my favorite restaurants. The menu variety makes it easy for everyone to find something they like. The quality of the food is always outstanding. And the staff at the three locations I have visited are professional, helpful, and attentive. The prices are good for the quantity and quality. Each of them has a different atmosphere with the one in Winter Park being the most intimate and usually the quietest.” — CarolAnn
Credit: Tabla/Facebook
2635 Curry Ford Road, Orlando
“The food was outstanding, garlic bread a must. The meatballs were spectacular. The pasta dishes we had were great and the pizza was beyond delicious. Our server was top notch. Highly recommend.” — Jim
1110 E. Colonial Drive, Orlando
“Okonomi is a unique destination for truly authentic sushi. It’s a ten-seat affair in the corner of Mills Market. Kevin is a very well trained sushi chef and is developing a great team. Orlando has a some world class omakase restaurants, Michelin starred and all. But omakase goes well beyond sushi. So where do you go for an incredible selection of raw fish, the majority imported from Japan, proper rice preparation, and exquisite knife skills? There’s only one place: Okonomi.” — Daniel Credit: Matt Keller Lehman
142 W. Lakeview Ave., Lake Mary
“This is one of my favorite go to places. It is consistently good in every way you would want a dining experience to be. Even the location is a fun spot to connect with friends and family. No other place has kept me coming back for over a decade with consistent service and quality. On top of that you won’t meet any nicer people than the owners of Krazy Greek. Love the place!” — Marie Credit: Krazy Greek Kitchen/Facebook
444 W. New England Ave., Winter Park
“Food was spectacular – we had the three course magical dining with wine pairing; it turned out to be a great deal and the wine pairings were perfect – so good that we stayed for another glass while the music kept playing. Just the right volume and tone. Excellent and friendly service. Great location with nearby parking. Very romantic. Highly recommended.” — Kevin
Credit: Vinia/Facebook
302 Ocean Ave., Melbourne Beach
“Great service, our family’s favorite place for wood fire pizza. ‘Fig & Pig’ is awesome, fresh seafood, Faroe Island salmon is delicious, good burgers, delicious Brussels sprouts, charred octopus, etc.” — Sharon Credit: Ocean 302/Google Maps
945 City Plaza Way, Oviedo
“Great diverse menu with Indian, Thai and Chinese selections. Every entree has been excellent. The ability to select a personal level of spiciness makes each dish personal. The garlic [naan] is a perfect side to every curry. The staff is friendly and focused on making the customer experience perfect. Great outing for a couple or larger group.” — John
1104 E. Lakeshore Blvd., St. Cloud
“Our experience at Crabby’s was top notch. Our table was ready when we arrived at our reservation time. Service was quick and courteous. We went there for a birthday to try a new place for crab legs for the birthday boy. The crab legs and boil delivered. In fact, our table ordered 5 different entrees. The fish was fresh and cooked perfectly, the shrimp was outstanding, and the sides all very good. I can not remember any other instance where our party tried a new place and all said that what they ate was terrific and/or it was the best they ever had. We’ll be back.” — Duane
8001 S. Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando
“Our company had its annual Christmas party and celebrate the retirement of one of the employees. The location was perfect for a group of 21, food was great, and reasonably priced as well as the drinks. Our server, Natalia, was phenomenal!!!! We enjoyed ourselves in a private area, and definitely will be back next year!” — Marji