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Welcome to the Best of Orlando® 2019
Thank you, Orlando! The challengers each entered the squared circle, battle-hardened and ready for the fight of their lives, knowing only one could emerge with their arm raised and the claim to the title of the People’s Champi- … er, the Best of Orlando! The nominees gave it their all, and the people of Orlando…
12 free concerts and music happenings in Orlando this week
Wednesday, Aug. 28: Eugene Snowden’s Ten Pints of Truth 10 p.m. at Lil Indies, 1036 N. Mills Ave. Opaque: Nicholas Roberts, Patrick Scott Barnes 9 pm at Grumpy’s Underground Lounge, 1018 N. Mills Ave. Thursday, Aug. 29: Kaleigh Baker 10 p.m. at Lil Indies, 1036 N. Mills Ave. JazzTones 6:30 pm at Maxine’s on Shine,…
Legal Public Notices 8/28 issue
Orlando Legals Legal Public Notices AUCTION Extra Space Storage – Store 8841 9847 Curry Ford Road, Orlando, FL 32825 Extra Space Storage will hold a Public auction to sell personal property described below belonging to those individuals listed below at the location Indicated: 9847 Curry Ford Road, Orlando, FL 32825 (407) 495-9612, September 17th, 2019 @…
Six Central Florida artists to receive free, year-long studio spaces at Maitland Art Center
Six Central Florida artists will each receive a studio space for one full year at the Maitland Art Center campus, a part of the Art & History Museums of Maitland. The Artists-in-Action were chosen by a selection committee and announced on Facebook by the A&H, and includes Ericka Sobrack and Nicholas Kalemba, Victoria Walsh, Wanda Raimundi-Ortiz,…
Florida lawmakers try again for 100-percent clean energy by 2050
The Amazon is burning, Trump skipped out on the G7 climate change meeting, and the rise in global temperatures is helping a flesh-eating bacteria spread. All in all, not a great week for planet Earth. As legislators try to combat climate change on a global and national scale, Florida lawmakers are trying to start at…
Humane Society warns Floridians to protect pets ahead of Tropical Storm Dorian
As Tropical Storm Dorian makes its way to Florida’s east coast, the Humane Society of the United States is urging individuals in areas to be effected by Dorian to make a disaster preparedness plan that includes their furry friends. Pet abandonment is a big enough issue for Florida lawmakers to try making it illegal during…
Lockheed Martin pays $320K for labor violations at Florida office
Lockheed Martin had to hand over $327,271 in back pay to employees after federal investigators found labor violations at a location in the Panhandle. The Maryland-based security and aerospace company paid damages to 20 employees at its Crestview worksite after violating the Fair Labor Standards Act, according to a press release from the U.S. Department of…
ALDI to reopen Kissimmee store after remodeling, plans to open more discount grocery stores in Central Florida
In the midst of an accelerated growth plan, the ALDI located on 4425 W. Vine St. in Kissimmee will reopen its doors on Thursday, Aug. 29. That’s big news for fans of cheap groceries, as ALDI’s no-frill approach excludes shopping bags and name brands to pass the savings on to shoppers. ALDI’s sourcing and pricing…
SeaWorld Orlando offers Florida teachers free admission for a year
While many teachers are dealing with financial peril, SeaWorld Orlando is giving back to educators with an entire year of free, unlimited access into the park. The “Florida Teacher Card” is offered annually by the park, and provides teachers with complimentary unlimited admission from now through Aug. 31, 2020. Florida state-certified preschool, day-care and home-school teachers, as well…
Chicago rapper CupcaKKe to play Orlando in September … and maybe give away money to fans
Someone is getting a little richer at Cupcakke’s Sept. 22 Orlando show at the Social. That’s right, the Chicago rapper sucks, ducks, and is sex-positive — and she’s bringing her microphone deep-throating to her fans, aka “Slurpers,” along with some cash. OK — so Elizabeth Harris who performs as CupcakKe is more than dildo games…
Sus Hi Eatstation offers week of sushi ‘dojo deals’ throughout Orlando
Here’s a deal for all casual sushi lovers, Sus Hi Eatstation is in the midst of hosting eight days of deals in celebration of the eighth anniversary since opening their doors back in 2011. Each Day gets its own deal. Right in the middle of their celebration, Sus Hi will be serving up a different…
Promising young Tampa Bay jazz saxophonist David Mason to play Blue Bamboo this weekend
(Editor’s Note: This show has been postponed due to concerns over Hurricane Dorian. For information on rescheduling, contact the Blue Bamboo Center.) David Mason is young, but that doesn’t make him immune to nostalgic thoughts. “The remembrance of the past bringing a flood of emotions running all throughout our body. Some of these nostalgic moments…
Tropical Storm Dorian threatens Florida’s east coast
Most of Florida could see a wet Labor Day weekend, with the East Coast facing tropical-storm force or stronger winds from Tropical Storm Dorian. In a tweet Tuesday, Gov. Ron DeSantis advised East Coast residents to start preparing for Dorian. Based on the current track of #TropicalStormDorian, all residents on the East Coast should prepare…
As thousands of communications workers strike across the southeast, Orlando has eight AT&T picket lines
As more than 20,000 AT&T workers strike across the southeast United States, at least 400 of them are joining picket lines in Central Florida. Hundreds have been protesting at nine Central Florida sites for the wire line telecommunications network since Saturday, said Steve Wisniewski, president of the Local 3108, the Orlando-based union. Eight of the picketing sites…
Orlando area teachers are being gouged on rent
Considering Florida currently ranks near the bottom nationally in public school spending and Orlando rental prices are increasingly getting worse, it really should come as no surprise that a new study found that local teachers can barely afford to live here. According to a report released today from real estate site Zillow, starting teachers in the…
Pete Davidson rants at UCF show, calls students ‘privileged little assholes’
Pete Davidson headlined a comedy set at UCF’s Addition Arena and, according to footage shared on Twitter and TMZ, began berating the audience of mostly students. When members of the audience began filming Davidson against his wishes, he responded by saying “that’s why we’re embarrassing. That’s why the world is gonna end in 25 years,…
After 54 days in the recording studio, John Vanderslice brings ‘The Cedars’ on tour through Orlando
A John Vanderslice show is one part musical performance and one part audience-bonding experience. In addition to performing songs from ten original albums, Vanderslice tells stories, sometimes with deeply personal reflections, about his travels and inspirations. So his latest living-room tour will be an even cozier way to hear selections from The Cedars, an album…
Bagel World moving into former Two Chefs Seafood space on Magnolia Drive
Following in the footsteps of Manzano’s Deli, another New Smyrna Beach import is poised to give carb-loading Orlandoans a proper fix. Bagel World will open this November in the former Two Chefs Seafood Oyster Bar at 743 N. Magnolia Ave. in NoDo. Much like the Bagel World in NSB, the Orlando outpost will serve breakfast…
Tropical Storm Dorian could hit Puerto Rico as a hurricane
Tropical Storm Dorian could head into Puerto Rico as a hurricane, and meteorologists are telling Floridians to prepare for that possibility as well. The latest outlook from the National Hurricane Center has the storm moving toward the U.S. island on Wednesday. It could bring hurricane conditions, along with 2 to 4 inches of rainfall in…
Disney announces new ‘seaside adventure camp’ in the Bahamas
This weekend’s Disney Parks, Experiences, and Products panel had plenty of WDW news in it, but Disney Cruise Line was also received a lot of attention during the 90-minute presentation. In announcing the new Disney Cruise Line port-of-call Lighthouse Point, Joe Rohde called Disney’s plans for the 751-acre peninsula a “kind of seaside adventure camp”…
Mills 50 Japanese pub Tori Tori opening ‘in the coming weeks’
At long last, is Tori Tori finally about to open its doors? The first sign was a private party in the space over the weekend. New restaurants often hold “soft openings” to test the kitchen and service staff with a roomful of family and friends, but the exact nature of the event is still unknown.…
Here’s everything Disney shared regarding WDW’s upcoming 50th Anniversary celebration
Plenty of focus at this weekend’s Disney Parks, Experiences, and Products panel at D23 Expo was on Epcot’s transformation, but the rest of Walt Disney World isn’t being forgotten. With billions of dollars in new investments across the resort ahead of its 50th Anniversary there will be plenty for guests to experience for the first…
4 Rivers Smokehouse to open at ONE DAYTONA complex this winter
Barbecue is coming back to One Daytona’s dining, entertainment and shopping complex across from the Daytona International Speedway. 4 Rivers Smokehouse has announced that it will move into the space formerly occupied by Kansas City BBQ mavens Oklahoma Joe’s, which shuttered in May. The 6,500 square-foot restaurant will offer seating for 280 guests, full-service catering/delivery…
Axine M, C-C and Club Goya drop a rainbow of subterranean beats at the Falcon
THIS LITTLE UNDERGROUND Axine M, Club Goya and C-C, The Falcon, Aug. 22 In her Orlando debut, NYC electronic artist Axine M proved to be a much more urgent and pounding live presence than recordings might suggest. Despite the trance wavelength that her warped, minimal techno maintains, this set came with a rhythmic aggression that…
Tropical Storm Dorian rolling toward Caribbean, may weaken over Hispaniola before reaching Florida
Tropical Storm Dorian is set to hit the Caribbean, but it’s not certain how it will impact Florida. The storm is set to hit Monday night and Tuesday, with a Hurricane watch issued for St. Lucia, according to an advisory from the National Hurricane Center. Tropical Storm #Dorian continues to move toward the Windward Islands.…
Eleven Central Florida pizzeria locations violated wage, child labor laws
Seven Orlando locations of the pizza chain Flippers got caught up in a department of labor investigation. A total of 11 Central Florida locations were ordered to pay $27,425 in back wages to 70 employees, and pay $1,810 in child labor violation penalties, according U.S. labor officials. U.S. Department of Labor officials allege the pizzeria was…
Child detention center proposed for West Landstreet Road in Orlando
Last month, news broke that the federal government had Central Florida on its list of possible sites to house unaccompanied migrant minors. Now, according to local leaders, there’s a specific address in mind. And it’s in Orlando. U.S. Health and Human Services is interested in leasing the property at 1850 W. Landstreet Road, according to…
Band of the Week: ReallyFastHorses
Welcome to Orlando Weekly’s “Band of the Week.” Every week, we highlight one of our favorite local bands. This week, we’re pleased to bring you ReallyFastHorses. ReallyFastHorses are playing twice this week: Aug. 29 at Iron Cow with Tongues of Fire, Top Nachos, and Fatties, and Aug. 31 at Will’s Pub for Florida Underground Fest.…
UF marching band director injured in Orlando attack following game against Miami
Saturday night’s football game between the University of Florida and the University of Miami at Orlando’s Camping World Stadium was marred by an attack against the UF marching band by Miami fans following the game. According to a report by College Marching.com and other sources, Hurricanes fans rushed the UF band while they remained in parade…
Goodbye Future World! Disney finally reveals details about its major Epcot overhaul
After years of leaks, hints, and piecemeal steps, Disney has finally revealed plans for the multi-year update in store for Epcot. In 2016, at a Destination D event, Bob Chapek, the Chairman of Parks, Experiences and Products, announced a “major transformation” to WDW’s second theme park, Epcot. The following year at the 2017 D23 Expo, a…
Tropical Storm Dorian likely to become a hurricane by Tuesday
Forecasters with the National Hurricane Center are saying we’ll likely see 2019’s first hurricane by late Monday or early Tuesday. In a Sunday advisory at 8 a.m., the NHS said Tropical Storm Dorian, which is moving 10-15 mph roughly 515 miles east-southeast of Barbados, has maximum sustained winds of 40 mph and is expected to gradually…
Florida chef in the running for $100K grand prize on national cooking competition show
Marianna may be a small town in Florida, but the award-winning chef there is a pretty big deal. Nick Rickman, or “Chef Nick” runs the The Salt Block in Marianna Florida, and could have have just won $100,000 in a competitive cooking challenge. We’ll found out if he won this weekend when the finale for…
Orlando’s Magical Dining Month has finally begun
Happy Friday, y’all. Magical Dining Month starts Friday (that’s today)! If you’re unaware, that means you can get incredible three-course meals at what would usually be a pricey Orlando restaurants – for only $35 a person. No worries if you’re a picky eater, there are more than 120 restaurants to choose from. Planning your weekend…
Women’s Equality Day town hall in Orlando this weekend will commemorate the 99th anniversary of women voting
A reminder: women have only been allowed to vote in the U.S. for 99 years. On Sunday, a group of women lawmakers in Orange County will take time out to focus on women’s issues, including reproductive health, paid family leave, public safety, tax structures, and state ratification of the Equal Rights Amendment. The town hall…
Gatecreeper and Exhumed to bring co-headlining tour to Winter Park in November
It’ll be a veritable bonanza of metal this autumn at the Haven in Winter Park when Gatecreeper and Exhumed bring their co-headlining tour to town, with Necrot and Judiciary in tow. This is a dream team of two generations of extreme metal; and both headliners will have new albums under their belt in time for…
Central Florida golfer keeps golfing, despite 7-foot gator walking next to him
It’s common courtesy in golf to allow a faster player to play through, even if it’s an alligator. On Wednesday, professional wakeboarder Steel Lafferty was golfing at ChampionGate Country Club in Osceola County when a 7-foot gator briskly walked in front of this shot.“Golfing in Florida is just different,” said Lafferty in his Instagram post,…
Tropical depression likely to form off the Florida coast this week
Just east of the Florida Keys, there’s a system that meteorologists say could turn into a tropical depression. For the moment, clouds and showers are extending over the northwest Bahamas and are set to move near the Florida Peninsula through Friday night, according to a tropical weather outlook from the National Hurricane Center. Once the low…
The Supersuckers to celebrate two decades of the ‘Evil Powers of Rock and Roll’ at Will’s next week
Old-school rock & roll (and once honky-tonk-makin’) band Supersuckers are on a tour celebrating the 20th anniversary of 1999 album, The Evil Powers of Rock ‘n’ Roll, which was significant in that it saw the return of founding guitarist Ron Heathman, who had to leave because of drug problems. Heathman left again in the 2000s, but…
Lake Nona to launch Central Florida’s first autonomous shuttle busses
UPDATE SEPT. 17: Lake Nona’s autonomous shuttle service will begin with a rescheduled launch on Wednesday, Sept. 18. UPDATE AUG. 30: Lake Nona has postponed the press preview of the autonomous shuttle busses, due to Hurricane Dorian: “To ensure everyone’s safety with the approaching hurricane, the service launch and press conference for Lake Nona’s autonomous shuttles have…
First-ever ‘Moana’ attraction coming to Disney’s Epcot
Moana is coming to Epcot. Disney’s first-ever Moana-themed attraction, “Journey of Water,” will come to the Disney park known for embracing world cultures. Details are hush-hush for the moment, but the experience “will let guests interact with magical, living water in a beautiful and inspiring setting,” according to an announcement from Disney Parks. JUST ANNOUNCED: The…
Orlando lawmaker tries to end statute of limitations on youth sexual assault that once protected Jeffrey Epstein
State Sen. Linda Stewart has officially refiled her bill seeking to remove time limits for minors that want to report sexual assaults. Right now, teens aged 16 and 17 have a “three-year window” to report such crimes. Stewart seeks to end those restrictions with Senate Bill 170, allowing those aged 15 to 18 to prosecute…
With a little planning, these I-4 road closures don’t have to ruin your weekend
Bridge work on Interstate 4 will cause road closures this weekend. Watch out for the right lane on eastbound Fairbanks Avenue under I-4 and the west I-4 entrance ramp from Fairbanks Avenue. They will be closed from 10 p.m. Friday until 5 a.m. Monday, according to a press release from the Florida Department of Transportation.…
Orlando warehouse from 1920s to be restored as Central City Station community gathering space
A 1920s warehouse in downtown Orlando will soon be home to something cool. We think. What is it, exactly? That much we don’t yet know. But, according to paperwork filed by developers, it should be a mixed use development/community gathering space. The site of this yet-to-be decided space will be 617 West Central Blvd. There’s even…
Florida’s NRA lobbyist tries to stop assault weapons ban
Florida’s top gun lobbyist took a second shot Thursday at a proposed constitutional amendment that seeks to prevent the possession and sale of assault weapons. Marion Hammer, a lobbyist for the National Rifle Association and Unified Sportsmen of Florida, appeared before state economists for the second time in a week to clarify her opposition to…
Florida actor Zack Gottsagen hits it big with ‘The Peanut Butter Falcon’
The Peanut Butter Falcon is shining a spotlight on one of Florida’s own, Zack Gottsagen. Gottsagen, a Boynton Beach actor with Down Syndrome, starred in the critically-acclaimed indie movie with Shia LaBoeuf and Dakota Johnson. For real, it has 98 percent on Rotten Tomatoes. It tells the story of a man with Down Syndrome who…
All American Rejects and lovelytheband to play free show at the Beacham in September
Oklahoma rockers All-American Rejects and lovelytheband have just announced a show at the Beacham in September, and guess what? Thanks to some corporate sponsorship from (ahem) Spectrum and Pandora, the show will be free. All-American Rejects and lovelytheband play the Beacham on Wednesday, Sept. 18 at 7 p.m. The event is free but you MUST…
Local noise-metal wrecking crew Glorious Rebellion release new music video and play Shovelhead Lounge Friday
Now that local noise metallians the Glorious Rebellion are back in grisly business, they’re already gunning to regain some momentum. They released a nasty EP, Scholars of War, back in March on Sludgelord Records and have since released music videos for two of the three songs on it. The latest one is for the bludgeoning first…
Florida Aquarium achieves major breakthrough to save Atlantic coral
For the first time ever in a lab setting, Tampa’s Florida Aquarium reached a major conservation milestone by reproducing coral two days in a row. In partnership with London’s Horniman Museum and Gardens, the ambitious program is called Project Coral, and is focused on creating coral spawns in a lab, which could eventually help repopulate…
Lyft to bring its ride credit program to Orlando nonprofits
Lyft’s latest philanthropic efforts are coming to Orlando. The ride share company announced it’s bringing its Wheels for All Grants program to the city, allowing local nonprofits to apply for free ride credits. “We’re proud to be a part of the Orlando community, and to offer this opportunity to nonprofit organizations who are making a…
WWE show filmed in Winter Park gets primetime USA Network slot
The WWE wrestling program hosted every week at Full Sail is getting a huge new audience. “NXT,” a two-hour wrestling show with a “unique blend of authentic in-ring action” is now getting a primetime spot on USA Network, thanks to good ratings. And the production partnership between the university and WWE is still going strong. “The move…
Folk-punk star Austin Lucas returns to Orlando a changed and chiseled man
THIS LITTLE UNDERGROUND Austin Lucas, Jordan Foley and the Wheelhouse and Amy Robbins, Will’s Pub, Aug. 19 Midwestern paragon Austin Lucas is another one of the folk-punkers who made their early break through our city and, at the beginning of this decade, was such a regular fixture on the Orlando scene that he was a…
Burlesque troupe Corsets & Cuties pull a double-header in Orlando and Sanford this weekend
The second-place winners of the Best Burlesque Troupe category in our 2019 Best of Orlando poll, Corsets & Cuties, celebrate their fifth anniversary with two shows this week. The first is sadly their last at the current location of the Venue (we hear rumors that a new location will be announced soon), and the second…
Beat Assembly III shows off the best of Orlando’s lo-fi production scene at Will’s Pub
Lo-fi beatmakers hold a showcase at the normally rock-centric Will’s Pub this week. Producers from all over Central Florida, like Gwadcip$, Loka, Nubes and the refreshingly named Plain Ol’ Zach (not actually named Zach, bee-tee-dubs) create a chill environment for the evening. And if you’ve been craving a one-stop shop for underground beat tapes, you…
CityArts gives patrons the chance to rub elbows with Orlando’s art elites at Art After Dark
The Downtown Arts District sponsors an opportunity for artists and art lovers to rub elbows at CityArts this week. Art After Dark offers patrons the chance to enjoy interactive art experiences, live music, meet-and-greet opportunities and a silent auction, along with craft cocktails and light bites. Attire is semi-formal, so don’t be a schlub. 7…
Safe surrender event gives misdemeanor defendants with open warrants a chance to ‘get life back on track’
This is not a trap! At least it doesn’t seem like one. Osceola County police say people with outstanding arrest warrants in that county may now surrender themselves at a Safe Surrender Event, planned for Tues., Aug. 27 at the Kissimmee Civic Center. The offer is good only for those with warrants for non-violent misdemeanor…
The best concerts happening in Orlando this week: Gothboiclique, Axine M, Salem Moon and more
Slaughter Beach, Dog Avant-garde moniker or not, this Philly band is the newish outlet for Modern Baseball’s Jake Ewald to explore darker and more downcast terrain. 7 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 21, at Soundbar, $14 Axine M New York avant-techno maestro lands in Thornton Park for a one-off date, also featuring the mysterious c-c from Gainesville. 9…
15 free shows happening in Orlando this week
Wednesday, Aug. 21: Eugene Snowden’s Ten Pints of Truth 10 p.m. at Lil Indies, 1036 N. Mills Ave. DJ Zetatron 10 pm at Iron Cow, 2438 E. Robinson St. Sharps & Felmax 9:30 pm at Celine Orlando, 22 S. Magnolia Ave. Thursday, Aug. 22: Kaleigh Baker 10 p.m. at Lil Indies, 1036 N. Mills Ave.…
Best Place to Buy Meat
Petty’s Meats
Best Caribbean Restaurant
Zaza New Cuban Diner
Best Unexpected Algorithm Result
Little-known Mee Thai named one of Yelp’s “Best 100 Places to Eat in the U.S.”
Best Middle Eastern Restaurant
Bosphorous Turkish Cuisine
Best Neighborhood to Eat In
Mills 50
Best Theme Park Restaurant
The Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar
Best Local Tragedy
Demolition of the Orchid Garden and the Ballroom at Church Street
Goods & Services: Best of Orlando 2019
Best in local shops, boutiques, dog groomers and more
Best Full-body Communication
Signing Shadows
Best Pet Groomer
Miss Emily’s Bed & Biscuit
Best Local Wine Shop
Tim’s Wine Market
Best Attraction That’sNot a Theme Park
Orlando Science Center
Best Group Fitness
Pure Barre
Best Pub
Claddagh Cottage Irish Pub
Best Strip Club
Dancers Royale
Best Local Lazarus
Michael Donaldson
Best Place to Buy Produce
Freshfields Farm
Best Cheap Eats
Gringos Locos
Best Juice/Smoothies
Soho Juice Co.
Best Nachos
Gringos Locos
Best Seafood Restaurant
Winter Park Fish Co.
Best Use of Public Money
Dr. Phillips Performing Arts Center
Best Dance Company
Orlando Ballet
Best Theater Space
Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
Best Doggy Daycare
Happy Paws Pet Resort
Best Place to Adopt a Pet
Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando
Best Bar Patio
The Hammered Lamb
Best Dance Club
Independent Bar
Best Hip-Hop Act
Luscious Lisa
Best Theme Park
Epcot
Best Place to See Stars
Orlando Pride games
Best Med Spa (Botox, laser treatments, etc.)
Winter Park Laser and Anti-Aging Center
Best Place to Eat Gluten-free
Dandelion Communitea Cafe
Best Transition From Food Truck to Brick and Mortar
Bem Bom on Corrine
Best Doughnut
Donut King
Best Local Politician
Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer
Best Neighborhood to Live In
Winter Park
Best Thing to Eat at a Theme Park
Dole Whip
Best Chance to Cozy Up With Local History
Fabulous Floridiana auction, Orange County Regional History Center
Best Paper Rocked by Scissors
Kelly Joy Ladd
Best Sneaking Culture Into the Subculture
Alterity.co
Best Realtor
Beth Hobart, Mainframe Real Estate
Best New ‘Do
Adaptive building reuse at new Alchemy Hair Salon
Best Beach
New Smyrna Beach
Best Gym
Pure Barre
Best Punk Act
Wet Nurse
Best Theme Park Bar
Finnegan’s Bar & Grill and Rose & Crown Pub (tie)
Best Medical Marijuana Physician or Clinic
Marijuana Doctor
Best Poke
Da Kine Poke Bowls
Best Chinese Restaurant
Hawkers Asian Street Fare
Best Korean Restaurant
Izziban Sushi & BBQ
Best Neighborhood to Shop In
Winter Park
Best Kept Secret
Sanford
Best Film Fest or Series
Florida Film Festival
Best AC Service
Del-Air Heating and Air Conditioning
Best Dry Cleaner
Acme Cleaners
Best Record Store
Park Ave CDs
Best Bar to Play Pool
Sportstown
Best Dive Bar
Throwbacks Sanford
Best Jazz Act
Brown Bag Brass Band
Best Theme Park Ride
Avatar Flight of Passage
Best Catharsis
Epic Axe Throwing
The 25 hottest restaurants in the Orlando area right now
Related Stories
Best Greek Restaurant
The Greek Corner
Best Food Truck
La Empanada
Best Local Charitable Group
Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida
Best Splurge Restaurant
The Ravenous Pig
Best Adult Art Classes
Crealdé School of Art
Best “Permit? We Don’t Need No Stinking Permit” Moment
Dezer tries to sneak an entire car museum into the dead husk of Artegon without telling anyone
Best Adult Entertainment Store
Fairvilla Megastore
Best Farmers Market
Winter Park Farmers Market
Best Roofer
Carroll Bradford Inc.
Best Way to Wake Up With Perfect Eyebrows Every Day
Oh La La Brow Bar
Best Bowling Alley
Splitsville
Best Local Pro Athlete
Alex Morgan
Best Reggae Act
Florida Man
Best Trivia Host
Ryan Holmes
Best Place to Buy Us a Gift
Echo Base Collectibles
Best Welcome Back
Cress Restaurant returns to regular service
Best Cocktails for Foodies
The Robinson Cocktail Room
Best Late-night Restaurant
Gringos Locos
Best Local Activist Group
Zebra Coalition
Best New Thing in Orlando
Hourglass District
Best Vegan or Vegetarian Restaurant
Ethos Vegan Kitchen
Best Gallery
CityArts
Best Brush With Oscar Fame
Junior Nyong’o at Orlando Shakes
Best Florist
In Bloom Florist
Best New Example of the East on West Colonial
Lotte Plaza Market
Best Bartender
Robbie Kennerney
Best Drag Shows
Hamburger Mary’s Brunch
Best Karaoke Bar
Big Daddy’s
Best Water Park
Volcano Bay
Best Advertisement for a Resort Chain We’ve Never Heard Of
Exploria Stadium
On Screens in Orlando: Ready or Not, Angel Has Fallen and more
Already a skilled marksman when it comes to shooting himself in the foot, our so-called president bagged himself another bone spur last week by forcing the cancellation of The Hunt – a movie that, from what it seemed, was actually going to depict “deplorables” as the sympathetic prey of elites who want to kill them…
Best Thing You’ll Put in Your Mouth This Year
Okayama hotate at Kabooki Sushi Sand Lake
Best Coffee
Foxtail Coffee Co.
Best French Restaurant
Le Coq au Vin
Best Local Radio Show
“Johnny’s House” – WXXL 106.7-FM
Best Steakhouse
Linda’s La Cantina
Best Local Color, Literally
Anna Cruz’s coloring wall of Orlando
Best Literary Reading Series
Orlando Story Club
Best Antiques Store
Adjectives Market
Best Furniture Store (new or used)
Washburn Imports
Best Smoke Shop
Pipe Dreams
Best Tipsy Shopping
The Orlando Flea orlandoflea.com Though Orlando Flea proprietor Mark Baratelli was inspired by hipster iterations of the classic arts-and-crafts market such as the Brooklyn Flea, his Flea has a distinct and necessary advantage: It’s indoors. Even better, it’s in a bar (Celine, to be exact), so not only are you fully air-conditioned while perusing handmade…
Best Canoeing/Kayaking
Wekiwa Springs
Best Local Sports Team
UCF Knights Football
Best Rock Act
Ancient Sun
Best Wine Bar
The Wine Room
Savage Love: Quickies
My fiancé and I have been in a relationship for 11 years. His best friend is one of his exes, and that has always bothered me. What do I do? Needing Guidance After Getting Engaged You could make up your mind to get over it, NGAGE. Or you could threaten to break off the engagement…
Best New Theme Park Treat
Boozy Dole Whips at Wine Bar George
Best Ice Cream
Kelly’s Homemade Ice Cream
Best Latin Restaurant
Black Bean Deli
Best Local Radio Station
WTKS 104.1-FM
Best Place to Show People the Real Orlando
Lake Eola Park
Best Vietnamese Restaurant
Little Saigon
Best New Version of Olan Mills
Wall Crawl
Best Passport to Your Own City
The Local Wanderer
Best Hair Salon
Alchemy
Best Sign You Care Too Much About Funko Pops
Spooky Empire riot over Elvira figure
Best Club DJ
Angel of Boom
Best Electronic Act
Too Heavy Crew
Best Live Music Club
House of Blues
Best Yoga Studio
Orlando Power Yoga
Best Worst Kept Secret in Theme Parks
Epic Universe
Opponents of a Pulse museum call the idea a ‘death tourism site,’ and more Orlando news from the week
Orange County Library System is offering a pretty sweet deal to cardholders. Library officials announced their new Local Wanderer program, which gives those with library cards free admission to certain art and cultural events. That includes the Orlando Museum of Art, the Orange County Regional History Center and Hard Rock Live, among other museums, theaters…
Best Bakery
Valhalla Bakery
Best of Orlando 2019: Meet the wrestlers!
Pride, pageantry, performance, triumph! Of course we’re talking about our annual Best of Orlando issue and blowout party. But, we thought to ourselves, that also seems to sum up the unparalleled spectacle that is professional wrestling, and let’s face it, Orlando has a pro wrestling scene that’s in a state of very rude health at…
Best Local TV Newsperson
Martha Sugalski, WFTV
Best Sushi
Seito Sushi
Best Bizarre Love Triangle
Queenie and her two suitors
Best Local Actor/Actress
Benjamin Ptashinsky
Best Auto Repair
Orlando Import Auto Specialist
Best Home Cleaning Service
Ruby Red Cleaning
Best Tattoo Studio
Rise Above Tattoo
Best Florida T-shirt
Freehand Goods Florida Man shirt
Best City Park
Lake Eola Park
Sports & Recreation: Best of Orlando 2019
Orlando’s best teams, players, springs, theme parks and more
Best Singer-Songwriter
Kaleigh Baker
Best Let’s Get Lost
Interpol at Hard Rock Live
The Peanut Butter Falcon gets stuck in mediocrity
A folksy tale about two misfit friends floating downriver on a raft, The Peanut Butter Falcon tastes a lot like Huckleberry Finn. But its odyssey-like plot – in which characters are seeking a new home while also searching for something they lack – also resembles The Wizard of Oz. Following that metaphor to its logical…
Best Barbecue Restaurant
4 Rivers Smokehouse
Best Cuban Sandwich
Black Bean Deli
Best Fried Chicken
Publix
Best Pub Grub/Bar Food
Throwbacks Sanford
Best Reason to Live in Orlando
The wide variety of activities
Best Wings
Gator’s Dockside
Best Local Author
Owl Goingback
Best Bicycle Shop
Orange Cycle
Best Independent Bookstore (used or new)
Stardust Video & Coffee
Best Place to Stash Chic Out-of-towners
The Wellborn
Best Club Night
’80s New Wave Night at Independent Bar
Best Experimental Act
Universal Funk Orchestra
Best Zipline or Ropes Course
Screamin’ Gator Zip Line at Gatorland
Best New Twirl-N-Hurl
Orlando StarFlyer at Icon Park
Best Public Park Renovation
Winter Park Tennis Center
Best Bloody Mary
The Hammered Lamb
Best Indian Restaurant
Tamarind Indian Cuisine
Best Local Brewery
Crooked Can Brewing Co.
Best Local Podcast
“A Mediocre Time With Tom and Dan”
Best Tacos
Gringos Locos
Best Tribute to Orlando Royalty
Billy Manes Legacy Mural
Best Local Comedian
Rauce Padgett
Best We Told You So
Kristen Arnett conquers the literary world
Best Independent Liquor Store
Pat’s Liquor Leaf and Wine
Best Vape Store
Fast Eddie’s Vape Shop & Lounge
Best New Frame-up
Warby Parker
Best Dog Park
Lake Baldwin Park
Best Local Music Festival or Music Series
Earthday Birthday
Best Local Cassette
It’s a tie! The Nightmare, Nightmare World, and Faust, Fila
Best Breakfast
Se7en Bites
Best Blink and You Missed It Pizza Joint
Recess Pizza
Food & Drink: Best of Orlando 2019
Orlando’s best coffee shops, restaurants, food trucks and more
Best Ramen
Domu
Best Teahouse
Pom Pom’s Teahouse & Sandwicheria
Best Arts Event or Festival
Orlando Fringe Festival
Best Local Visual Artist
Andrew Spear
Best Cannabis Dispensary
1. Surterra Wellness, surterra.com 2. Trulieve, trulieve.com 3. Curaleaf, curaleaf.com
Best Local Barbershop
Floyd’s 99 Barbershop
Best Local Footwear
Rock ‘Em Socks
Best Country Act
Sean Holcomb
Best Folk Act
Kaleigh Baker
Best Place to Bike
West Orange Trail
Best Soul Act
Eugene Snowden
Best Losing My Religion
Church of United Ministry closes
Legal Public Notices 8/21 issue
Orlando Legals Legal Public Notices Auction: Notice is hereby given that Compass Self Storage Intents to sell the property described below to enforce a lien imposed on said property under the Florida Self Storage Facility Act (Section 83-80-83.809). The owner will sell at public auction for CASH through competitive bidding on September 11, 2019 at…
Best Brunch
Santiago’s Bodega
Best Desserts
Better Than Sex
Best Local Chef
Sonny Nguyen (Domu)
Best Local Publication
Orlando Weekly
Best Local Twitter Feed
@drunkatdisney
Best Fakeout
Announced completion of the “I-4 Eyesore”
Best Movie Theater
Enzian Theater
Best Local Zine
Hawt & Popular
Best Local Mall or Shopping Center
The Mall at Millenia
Best Veterinary Services
Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando
Best Cover Band
Hayfire
Best Escape Room
Escapology
Best Metal Act
Gargamel!
Best All-Time Champions
Orlando Apollos go down in history as the winningest team in the AAF
Best Midlife Crisis
Rich Evans creating Mind Meld and Mayhem on Mills
Best Outdoor Dining
Santiago’s Bodega
Best Place to Get an Exacting Cup of Coffee
La Kuma Coffee
Best Italian Restaurant
Prato
Best Locally Made Hot Sauce
Tijuana Flats
Best Neighborhood to Drink In
Downtown Orlando
Best Thai Restaurant
Thai House
Best Burlesque Troupe
Les Vixens Burlesque
Best Museum
Orlando Science Center
Best Comic Book Shop
Gods & Monsters
Best Massage Therapy/Bodywork
Maitland Wellness Center
Music & Nightlife: Best of Orlando 2019
The best in local bars, clubs, bands, DJs and more
Best Craft Beer Bar
Crooked Can Brewing Co.
Best Gay Bar
Southern Nights
Best Public Golf Course
Dubsdread
Best Did a Shoe Just Fly by My Head?
Le Trash Can’s meltdown at Grumpy’s Underground Lounge
Best Local Album
The Sh-Booms, The Blurred Odyssey
Best Pho
Pho 88
Best Burger
Teak Neighborhood Grill
Best Mini Mexico
Corner of Bumby and Curry Ford
Best Lunch
Yellow Dog Eats
Best Restaurant To Take a Date
Santiago’s Bodega
Arts & Culture: Best of Orlando 2019
Orlando’s best artists, writers, comedians, museums and more
Best Downtown Freakshow
Easter Bunny throwdown on Orange Avenue
Best Recurring Arts Nights
Thornton 2nd Thursday Wine & Art Walk
Best Dinner Theater
Lydia Lunch at Maxine’s on Shine
Local Color: Best of Orlando 2019
The best in local media, radio shows, Instagram feeds, activists and more
Best Vintage or Used Clothing Store
Goodwill
Best Adult Sports League
Orlando Roller Derby
Best Go-Kart Center
Andretti Indoor Karting & Games
Best Open Mic
Austin’s Coffee
Best Sports Bar
Miller’s Ale House
Best Goodbye/Hello/Goodbye
Obliterati’s “final” show
Best Pizza
Lazy Moon
Best Cheesy Beverage
Royal Tea’s cheese tea
Best Diner
Christo’s Cafe
Best Mexican Restaurant
Agave Azul
Best Sandwiches/Subs
Publix Deli
Best Local Instagram Feed
@orlandobungalower
Best Comedy Club or Night
SAK Comedy Lab
Best Theater Company
Orlando Shakespeare Theater
Best Day Spa (facials, waxing, & massage, etc.)
1. Flex-I Spa & Wellness, flexispaandwellness.com 2. Jacq & Jack, jacqandjack.com 3. Holistic Beauty Center, holisticbeautycenter.com
Best Nail Salon (manicure/pedicure)
Flex-I Nails Spa & Wellness
Best Bar
Will’s Pub
Best Craft Cocktail Bar
Lil Indies
Best Happy Hour
Santiago’s Bodega
Best Springs
Wekiwa Springs
Best Welcome to the 21st Century Catch-up
Disney bans smoking in the parks
Best Sunroom Where You Can’t See the Sun
The Sunroom
