Black Bean Deli, a longtime Winter Park favorite, took over a larger space at 1835 E. Colonial Drive last year, formerly Vega’s (and before that a garage, apparently). We’ve been anxiously awaiting the restaurant’s opening – partly because when we interviewed Jason Gregory (whose Makr Studio designed the interior) a year ago, he already had a fantastic inspiration board going; partly because it’s just two blocks from Orlando Weekly and we are big fans of BBD’s picadillo. Today was the first day of their soft open; grand opening is next week, but if you just can’t wait, head down tonight or over the weekend. ~jby

Sept. 13, 2013
Photos by Jessica Bryce Young

Black Bean Deli No. 2, right down the street from Orlando Weekly offices at 1835 E. Colonial Drive. (Get used to seeing our faces, guys!) Credit: Jessica Bryce Young
The interior was designed by Makr Studio; beautiful Old Havana-inspired tilework and modern birch-plywood details define the space. Credit: Jessica Bryce Young
Owner Andres Cortón looks a little tired but happy and proud after the first hour of the first day of business. Credit: Jessica Bryce Young
Beautiful plants everywhere, donated and tended by Andres’ mom. Credit: Jessica Bryce Young
More healthy plants, more beautiful tile. Credit: Jessica Bryce Young
Seriously. This tile. Love the way it intersects with the rawer concrete. Credit: Jessica Bryce Young
Can we talk about this neon, also? Sweet. Credit: photo by Jessica Bryce Young
Lovely light fixtures, exposed beams in the ceiling, caned chairs contrast with finished birch plywood bench and tables. Credit: Jessica Bryce Young
More birch plywood, more plants, a spacious outdoor seating area. Credit: Jessica Bryce Young
The overhead metalwork holds wine bottles, an antique coffee grinder, and a big old fern. Credit: Jessica Bryce Young
Shiny white tile wraps the bar and order counter, contrasting with the concrete; nice modern barstools, too. Makr? Maybe. Credit: Jessica Bryce Young
Nice reuse of a vintage crate where you might find a boring plastic fixture Credit: Jessica Bryce Young
Makr plant rings. Credit: Jessica Bryce Young
Today they’re giving away free pastry samples! Credit: Jessica Bryce Young
I would like all the Hatuey … and all the flan. Credit: Jessica Bryce Young
Sweet ending. Credit: Jessica Bryce Young