Whether you love them or you hate them, these restaurants were voted by neighbors and tourists alike as the best spots in Orlando. Dedicated Yelpers have shared 5 stars and photos alike to support these businesses, for better or for worse. Did they get it right?

Mediterranean Deli 981 W Fairbanks Ave., (407) 539-2650 “This place is simple and straightforward with their food and it’s FRESH! I haven’t had a better gyro anywhere else, and their salad is very good on the side. I introduced my wife to Falafel and now she loves it! They are very generous with their portions so have an appetite. Their grape leaves were delicious and came with about 7 pieces. I had a gyro and my wife had the open face so she was able to build her own gyro. Most of the meals come with a free drink, so make sure you don’t forget to grab a soda before leaving! There isn’t much space for seating inside, so if you’re dining in, let them know. But it would be best to take it home so you won’t feel so trapped in the compact space. They may be the only business open in the tiny strip mall, but they’re still in business for a reason!” – Travia J. via Yelp Photo via lemonhearted/Instagram
Market on South 2603 E South St., (407) 613-5968 “This was my first visit here but it was a beautiful day and sitting outside under the trees was a perfect way to indulge in some vegan food. I ordered the kale salad with the watermelon rind on the side and added the tempeh bacon. I’m glad I got the pickled watermelon on the side as I didn’t care for it but the rest of the salad was great. It is a HUGE portion of kale and beets that makes this $8 salad a great price considering the high cost and quantity of the ingredients used. The tempeh bacon paired perfectly with it. I also had a lavender chocolate and a double chocolate cupcake that I shared. Both were sooooo good! I’m gunna have dreams about that lavender frosting. The staff is very helpful and friendly. Great spot!” – Rachel B. via Yelp Photo via fractalizedd/Instagram
Yellow Dog Eats 1236 Hempel Ave., Windermere, (407) 296-0609 “Unique, eclectic, delicious. Nothing here is basic or ordinary. Yellow Dog Eats is a place where you can escape the mundane and get something crazy good to eat, may it be the White Trash sandwich (melt in your mouth pulled pork with pecan bacon, Gouda cheese, house made coleslaw with cranberries, and gold BBQ sauce on thick white bread). OMG. Or the WTF, another melodious sandwich with the pulled pork. They have two bars, one inside and one outside, with a good selection of craft beers on draft, plus more cans and bottles. Don’t miss out on the dessert selection. The outdoor area is an oasis of happiness. You cannot come here and be mad. Pro tip: start at the front; grab a menu and place your order at the register. Pay. Take your number and seat yourself. They will bring your food out to you. Enjoy!!” – Colleen M. via Yelp Photo via yellowdogeats/Instagram
JJ’s Fusion Grille 2950 Curry Ford Rd., (407) 802-2947 “JJ’s Fusion Grill is a seriously delicious Mexican/ Lebanese restaurant. It kind of reminds me of chipotle but better because it allows you to combine two cuisines in one meal. It was interesting because I arrived with three friends and all our bowls had different flavors because of the ingredients we chose. I decided to order a spicy rice bowl as my base and chicken as my meat. As far as the toppings go, I tried to make it half Mexican and half Lebanese. In the end it didn’t really matter because I ended up mixing everything together. Surprisingly, it tasted amazing all together. The bowl was very filling. I ended up saving 1/3 of it for a midnight snack. I was very pleased with the quality of the food and the customer service was excellent. We showed up 15 minutes to close (which I know is annoying) and the girls were still super polite and welcoming.” – Hanaa U. via Yelp Photo via jjsfusiongrille/Instagram
Dandelion Communitea Cafe 618 N Thornton Ave., (407) 362-1864 “I heard of this place because it was vegan and I’ve been meaning to come by ever since. I was definitely not disappointed. The parking was a little crowded when we arrived, but there was more than enough space to park on the street. When I first saw the building, I was very surprised by the use of all the colors. The whole cafe is different so every room has its own personality. I sat in the back room with my friend and the view out the window overlooked the garden. I ordered the Giddyup as a bowl with grains and greens as the base and it was great! The flavor was perfect and the entire meal, accompanied with chips and a choice of dip, was very filling. Sad to say that I didn’t finish my entire meal, but the price of this meal was worth every bite! I also ordered the Lemon Lavender drink and it was very refreshing. I will without a doubt be back again! It’s very nice to find a place to eat that supports sustainable and plant based diets.” – Michelle L. via Yelp Photo via amandatinney/Instagram
Q’Kenan 8117 Vineland Ave., (407) 238-0014 “Hidden (really hidden) gem! One of the things I am known for is that whenever I travel I’m looking out to try out new places, this place intrigued me due to the high rated reviews and the quantity of them, no surprise, the arepas where AMAZING! I have had many arepas, and when I say many I mean it! And this place is on my top 10 spots for arepas. My husband and I both had the Q’Kenan super something arepas $8 each, one of my daughters had the criolla arepa $8, my other daughter had the ham and cheese arepa $7, we order the tequeños (4 for $8) and in the first bite you can tell the cheese is handmade, the dough is also made in the restaurant, both my daughters wanted chocolate milkshakes $6 each, those milkshake were also the bomb! My husband and I believe they are made with Toddy. The spicy sauce and tartar sauce complimented the arepas, and the tequeño too , all those arepas had something special to it! The service was really good, our server was really nice and everyone in this place makes you feel at home from the moment you walk in.” – Mariela R. via Yelp Photo via coeliacinlondon/Instagram
Hot Krust Panini Kitchen 8015 Turkey Lake Rd., (407) 355-7768 “This place has amazing paninis. I have been here multiple times and can’t believe I have not reviewed them before this. I typically get the Chicken Florentine. It has a lot of flavors and the chicken is always cooked perfectly. I have also had the Fondue Turkey, the Gobble, Gobble Turkey, and Pancetta Shrimp. All were equally delicious.I love the baked sweet potato fries as well, but with the sandwich I never can finish so usually I split them with whoever I am eating lunch with. The staff is super friendly and I have never had an issue with the service here. They go out of their way to make sure you enjoy your food and your table is cleared off when you are done. Great local establishment that is tucked back in the corner of the shopping center!” – Aimee B. via Yelp Photo via hotkrust/Instagram
Tropical Cabana 1875 Central Florida Pkwy., (407) 854-7753 “What an amazing Hispanic food spot. It’s served similar to a cafeteria style and the staff members are super friendly. The restaurant has classics like ropa vieja (shredded boiled beef), roast pork, and roasted chicken. They have an excellent selection of rice, including yellow rice with pigeon peas, yellow rice, vegetable rice, and white rice. Beans, maduro, and yucca can be selected to accompany your meal. The lunch box consists of a selection of rice, meat, and veggie. I did the pigeon pea rice, ropa vieja, and maduro. Mmmm!!” – Kalvin K. via Yelp Photo via tropical_cabana_restaurant/Instagram
Border Grill Fresh-Mex 5695-A Vineland Rd., (407) 430-2667 “Border grill is tasty, cheap, and fast. It is a perfect spot for a quick meal. The menu has all the Mexican favorites. It seems to have a good following as it is always pretty busy, but I’ve never had to wait. I’m super in love with the fajita tacos. They were incredible – a little messy, but 100% worth the mess since they tasted so great! I also enjoyed the chips, salsa, and guacamole. The guac is incredibly fresh.” – Sean C. via Yelp Photo via danielle5215/Instagram
Express Cafe 5820 W Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy., Kissimmee, (321) 701-3929 “The outside of this cafe looks like someone converse one of the rooms into a cafe. External seating for 18 , internal for 5 , this little cafe inside has a lot of character and really showcases visitors desire. Talking to the owner this restaurant is a interesting story of customer driven product creation as the items on the menu span all Central and south america. Cachapas ( Venezuela ) , pao na chapa ( Brazil) , gallo pinto ( costa rica) , cuban sandwich (cuba) , etc. the owner invites you to ask, as he says ‘what do you want?’ , emphasis on want, and you get what you want. While I was here I tried the dream sandwich, crossiant breakfast sandwich and arrepas. Everything was very well made. Mango drinks delicious and my picky daughter was happy to return. I am here for a second meal and if all goes well will report back tomorrow.” – Keith T. via Yelp Photo via galnyc/Instagram
The Crepevine 249 W State Rd 436, Altamonte Springs, (321) 972-8999 “Very friendly staff and delicious food!!!! Everything was so fresh. Service is super fast and so many options on the menu. Love that there were vegetarian options as well!! Had lunch and dessert and was beyond full!” – Mariette J. via Yelp Photo via sharonrosete/Instagram
Buttermilk Bakery 1198 Orange Ave., Winter Park, (321) 422-4015 “This place is so cute and we are happy to have found it! My sister and I ordered a box of goods from the pastry section. The almond croissant everyone raves about, IS everything they say it is, YES. I wish it had more of the filling because it is SO good. The little orange tea muffin was equally as amazing, but as a muffin, and I want to try all of their muffins. I have to admit the brownie was not eaten and I am a brownie LOVER! I tried like 3 bites hoping it would grow on me, but really it had no flavor so that is sad. The iced coffee was the perfect compliment to our treats. Keep it up and fix those brownies! Still a 5/5.” – Mandy B. via Yelp Photo via ilovebuttermilk/Instagram
Nonno’s Italian Restaurant 1140 E Altamonte Dr., Altamonte Springs, (407) 260-8900 “What a great place! They don’t take call aheads or reservations so when we arrived at 6:30 on a Friday night and it was packed. There were people Waiting inside and outside. The owner was quick to bring out hot garlic bread for everyone waiting. We grabbed drinks at the bar and sat outside to wait. The menu had lunch and dinner. We ordered the chicken Marsala and the seafood stew. Both come w pasta and a salad or soup. I opted for broccoli and spinach sides. Food was hot, fast and delicious! Service from Lonnie was good too! Skipped dessert but had coffee. It was good! Parking is plentiful. Menu has a lot to offer. Recommend this place!” – Amanda M. via Yelp Photo via oritaissartel/Instagram
Se7en Bites 617 N Primrose Dr., (407) 203-0727 “We loved this place. A great selection of foods that are always available but also a nice menu of weekly specials so there is always something new to try. We went with a group of 6 so got to try a lot of different things. Unfortunately we didn’t plan to save room for one of the many pastry options but everything looked wonderful so we’re going to make sure and plan better next time.” – Amy E. via Yelp Photo via tama_leah/Instagram
Viet-Nomz 7581 University Blvd., Winter Park, (407) 636-6069 “Viet-Nomz is a hole in the wall, located on University Blvd. I remember seeing it but I didn’t try it until I started my job at YouFit which is in front of Vietnomz. My favorite plate is their rice bowl, it comes with Jasmine white rice, your choice of protein, veggies and an egg. Food taste fresh and Yes it can be a bit pricey but for the taste and amount of food they serve you, it’s perfect! They also have soups, tacos which are delish as well, they have a cafe with good iced coffee and service is great! Which is one of the top things I look at any place I go to. It’s pretty small in the inside, stays clean and it’s decorated nicely giving a homey vibe. If you guys haven’t tried it, I definitely recommend it to everyone. Wether you’re eating in or ordering out you won’t regret it!” – Maria B. via Yelp Photo via vietnomzfl/Instagram
Banh Mi Nha Trang Subs 1216 E Colonial Dr., (407) 346-4549 “I’ve been to this place a few times now and it’s definitely one of my favorite spots in Orlando to get cheap, fresh and authentic bahn mi’s. I’ts cash only and its a bit hard to find but its worth it. Order by the number and spend only 4 bucks each. My favorite are the pate and the marinated grilled pork. Every time I stop by here I keep craving them for days after!” – Alyssa V. via Yelp Photo via gofindmira/Instagram
The Meatball Stoppe 7325 Lake Underhill Rd., (407) 270-6505 “This restaurant is now my favorite and what a treat it was. Chef Izabella is an outstanding host. I felt like I was in a true Italian home kitchen. The food was succulent and true to the True Italian dishes you would find in the larger cities. I chose the five meatball platter with the bean ragu with polenta bread and a home made cannoli for a desert. Please treat yourself as it is worth the visit.” – Robert B. via Yelp Photo via abbielynnabbott/Instagram
King Bao 710 N Mills Ave., (407) 237-0013 “They have the most creative and unbelievable bao buns ever! The fried chicken (Kick’n Chicken) the Dynamite Shrimp are my favorites. If you’re a vegan no worries; they have you covered! Of course they have the pork belly bao buns for the more traditional bunners. The textures and flavors combinations you get with each bite are simply delicious, a little piece of heaven in a soft little bun. Dessert is a must, never have I ever seen a bao made into dessert and I must say it’s outrageous! The guys are super nice and friendly and will address any questions regarding ingredients for allergies. A new absolute favorite for me!” – Denise P. via Yelp Photo via haniainabox/Instagram
Blaze Fast-Fire’d Pizza 4100 N Alafaya Trl., (407) 318-9127 “It’s nice sometimes to venture away from the common pizza chains and try something new. I had never been to a Blaze before this time and I’m glad we tried it because it was fantastic. For one reasonable price I can build my own pizza with ANY toppings I want? That sounded like a winner to me. I’ve got to say that I constructed a pretty darn good pizza if I say so myself. They do offer specialty pizzas, but I feel like it’s a lot more fun and interesting to create your own. Just like Kramer says on Seinfeld. Staff are all very friendly and welcoming, food is excellent and the restaurant itself is very clean and well organized. Some interesting off brand sodas are on tap and there is plenty of seating within the restaurant. Overall, I give this place two thumbs up and will be back for sure.” – Brandon G. via Yelp Photo via dumplingsandfries/Instagram
Antonella’s Pizzeria 360 W Fairbanks Ave., Winter Park, (407) 318-9127 “Absolutely delicious. Found this place by accident, me and my boyfriend turned into this small plaza, saw this little pizza place and decided to give it a try. The garlic knots are to die for, literally garlic heaven. The Bianca pizza is definitely my favorite, with the meat lovers being a close second!!! Overall the atmosphere is so homey, and this is the best pizza I’ve had in the central Florida region. Highly recommend to everyone, come out and support this small family business!!!!! You can definitely taste the difference!” – Megan M. via Yelp Photo via antonellaspizzeria/Instagram
Mee Thai Restaurant 1200 Lee Rd., (407) 802-2323 “Absolutely the best Thai restaurant I have been too! I have been here a couple times and already craving for the next time I’m able to go back! Flavors here are top notch with a great balance of heat and spices, although my cutoff is at medium heat . My top favorite dishes is the waterfall beef salad and pork laab but everything I have ordered have been great. The Thai iced coffee is excellent as well. It’s a hidden small gem with about 12 tables and definitely worth trying!” – Kathy D. via Yelp Photo via meijieats/Instagram
Mexas Tacos 8788 Vineland Ave., (407) 560-0773 “Don’t judge this place by the fact that it is in a gas station. This is an authentic feeling Mexican food place! The owner is super nice and helpful! He basically suggested what to try and what salsas to use with it and I did. They have horchata and aqua frescas! The process here are great too! It’s a quick drive from Disney Springs, which is why we stopped here. I tried pork, steak and chicken. My favorite was the pork.” – Christy M. via Yelp Photo via Mexas Texas/Facebook
Pig Floyd’s Urban Barbakoa 1326 N Mills Ave., (407) 203-0866 “Best ribs ever! These ribs are absolutely killer and always hit the spot for me. They usually fall off the bone and are really tender, and go really well with the sweet and spicy BBQ sauce they provide on the side. Their side fries are also super delicious and always have the best crisp to them. Green beans are good, but can be a little too salty sometimes. In regards to tacos, I only like the chorizo and shrimp taco and is a must try. I love how fast the food comes out after you order despite how busy it can get throughout the day. You order first at the counter then find a place to sit with the number they give you. There’s outdoor and indoor seating and service is quick, attentive, and friendly.” – Elizabeth N. via Yelp Photo via flixoto/Instagram
24. Trevi Pasta 2120 Edgewater Dr., (407) 985-2577 “We came on a Thursday night to try their famous fresh pasta and authentic Italian gelato. Being located in College Park was a plus, a nice and quiet area with lots of parking spots. We were warmly welcomed by their staff when we entered the place. They explained everything on the menu. We ordered the red wine parpadelle with meatballs. Meatballs were to die for! The pasta was very fresh – he cut it right before serving it. They have a few appetizers as sides. You pick 3 small portions and they serve with fresh bread. I love how olive oil in more authentic Italian restaurants makes a huge difference. But our favorite were the gelatos! They taste exactly like gelato in Italy. I definitely recommend trying pistachio cream, amaretto, honey pear, and passion fruit.” – Alessandra C. via Yelp Photo via trevipasta/Instagram
The Gnarly Barley 7431 S Orange Ave., (407) 985-2577 “Gnarly Barley is a must visit spot in Orlando! I’ve visited this location many times and am always blown away by the food, service, and beer selection. Tonight was another fantastic trip! We started with the specialty hummus. (They offer a different hummus flavor each day – today was dill). It was DELICIOUS!! I’m embarrassed to admit that I’ve sampled a good chunk of the menu, but tonight I went for my go to sandwich – the veggie monster with a side of the jalapeño mac and cheese. Both were amazing as per usual. Don’t judge a book by it’s cover and swing by!! You won’t be disappointed!” – Christa T. via Yelp Photo via gnarly_barley407/Instagram