Orlando is a city known for its enchanting theme parks and thrilling attractions, but beyond the rides and characters lies a vibrant culinary scene waiting to be explored. During my recent trip to Orlando, I embarked on a culinary adventure to uncover the city’s hidden gastronomic treasures.
The Ravenous Pig: A Gastropub Gem
Location: 565 W Fairbanks Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789
Specials/Offers: Happy hour specials from 3-6:30 PM, featuring discounted drinks and small plates.
Price: Entrées range from $20-35, with appetizers and small plates starting at $10.
Tucked away in the charming suburb of Winter Park, The Ravenous Pig is a gastropub that combines inventive cuisine with a laid-back atmosphere. I started with the signature Pig Tails—crispy pig ears tossed in a spicy chili glaze, offering a perfect balance of crunch and heat. For my main course, I couldn’t resist the Pig’s Famous Pub Burger, piled high with bacon jam, Gruyère cheese, and a perfectly cooked patty. Each bite was a flavor explosion, showcasing the chef’s commitment to quality ingredients and bold flavors. With its cozy ambiance and mouthwatering menu, The Ravenous Pig earns top marks in my book.
Recommendation: 4.8/5
Booking Platform: Reservations can be made through the restaurant’s website or by phone.
Nearby Attractions: After indulging in a delicious meal, take a stroll through the scenic streets of Winter Park and explore the boutiques, art galleries, and picturesque parks that make this neighborhood a hidden gem.
Se7en Bites: A Southern Comfort Haven
Location: 617 Primrose Dr, Orlando, FL 32803
Specials/Offers: Daily breakfast and lunch specials, featuring Southern-inspired favorites.
Price: Breakfast dishes range from $8-15, while lunch items are priced between $10-18.
For a taste of Southern comfort in the heart of Orlando, look no further than Se7en Bites. This cozy eatery specializes in homestyle cooking with a modern twist, and every dish is made with love and attention to detail. I started my day with the signature Biscuit Benedict—a fluffy buttermilk biscuit topped with poached eggs, creamy hollandaise sauce, and your choice of savory toppings. The combination of flavors was simply divine, and each bite left me craving more. Whether you’re craving sweet or savory, Se7en Bites has something to satisfy every craving.
Recommendation: 4.7/5
Booking Platform: Se7en Bites operates on a first-come, first-served basis, so be prepared to wait during peak hours.
Nearby Attractions: After enjoying a delicious meal, take a leisurely stroll through the nearby Leu Gardens and immerse yourself in the beauty of lush landscapes, colorful blooms, and serene water features.
Hawkers Asian Street Fare: A Global Culinary Journey
Location: 1103 N Mills Ave, Orlando, FL 32803
Specials/Offers: Happy hour specials from 3-6 PM and late-night happy hour from 9 PM-close, featuring discounted drinks and appetizers.
Price: Small plates range from $6-12, while larger dishes are priced between $10-18.
Transport your taste buds to the bustling streets of Asia with a visit to Hawkers Asian Street Fare. This vibrant eatery offers a diverse menu of street food favorites from across the continent, with dishes inspired by the flavors of Malaysia, China, Thailand, and more. I started with the Roti Canai—a crispy, flaky flatbread served with a side of savory curry dipping sauce. For my main course, I couldn’t resist the Char Kway Teow—a classic Malaysian stir-fried noodle dish packed with shrimp, chicken, and crunchy bean sprouts. Each bite was a symphony of flavors, with the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy notes. With its lively atmosphere and mouthwatering menu, Hawkers Asian Street Fare is a must-visit destination for food lovers in Orlando.
Recommendation: 4.9/5
Booking Platform: Reservations can be made through the restaurant’s website or by phone.
Nearby Attractions: After sampling the flavors of Asia, take a short drive to Lake Eola Park and enjoy a scenic stroll around the picturesque lake, where you can admire swan boats, lush greenery, and stunning skyline views.
Black Rooster Taqueria: A Taste of Mexico in Orlando
Location: 1323 N Mills Ave, Orlando, FL 32803
Specials/Offers: Taco Tuesday specials featuring discounted tacos and drinks.
Price: Tacos range from $3-5 each, with larger plates priced between $10-15.
For authentic Mexican flavors served with a modern twist, look no further than Black Rooster Taqueria. This lively taqueria offers a mouthwatering menu of tacos, burritos, and other Mexican street food favorites, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. I started with the Carne Asada Tacos—grilled steak served on warm corn tortillas and topped with cilantro, onions, and a zesty salsa verde. The flavors were bold and vibrant, with each bite transporting me to the streets of Mexico City. For dessert, I indulged in the Churros—crispy fried dough dusted with cinnamon sugar and served with a side of rich chocolate dipping sauce. It was the perfect ending to a delicious meal that left me craving more.
Recommendation: 4.8/5
Booking Platform: Black Rooster Taqueria operates on a first-come, first-served basis, so be prepared to wait during peak hours.
Nearby Attractions: After satisfying your cravings for Mexican cuisine, take a short drive to the nearby Orlando Science Center and explore hands-on exhibits, interactive displays, and fascinating planetarium shows for a fun-filled afternoon of discovery.
The COOP: Southern Comfort Food Reinvented
Location: 610 W Morse Blvd, Winter Park, FL 32789
Specials/Offers: Happy hour specials from 3-6 PM, featuring discounted drinks and appetizers.
Price: Entrées range from $15-25, with appetizers and small plates starting at $8.
Nestled in the heart of Winter Park, The COOP is a cozy eatery that specializes in Southern comfort food with a modern twist. From classic fried chicken to hearty mac and cheese, every dish is made with love and attention to detail. I started with the Pimento Cheese Fritters—a crispy, golden-brown delight filled with creamy pimento cheese and served with a tangy red pepper jelly for dipping. For my main course, I couldn’t resist the Fried Chicken Dinner—a generous portion of tender, juicy chicken served with mashed potatoes, collard greens, and a savory pan gravy. Each bite was a taste of Southern hospitality and culinary excellence, with flavors that were both comforting and unforgettable. To round out my meal, I indulged in the Banana Pudding—a classic Southern dessert made with layers of creamy pudding, fresh bananas, and vanilla wafers. It was the perfect sweet ending to an indulgent dining experience. With its warm hospitality, inviting atmosphere, and mouthwatering menu, The COOP is a must-visit destination for anyone craving a taste of Southern comfort in Orlando.
Recommendation: 4.9/5
Booking Platform: Reservations can be made through the restaurant’s website or by phone.
Nearby Attractions: After enjoying a delicious meal at The COOP, take a leisurely stroll through the quaint streets of Winter Park and explore the boutiques, art galleries, and scenic parks that make this neighborhood a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike.
Pom Pom’s Teahouse & Sandwicheria: A Culinary Oasis
Location: 67 N Bumby Ave, Orlando, FL 32803
Specials/Offers: Daily specials featuring unique sandwiches and creative tea blends.
Price: Sandwiches range from $8-12, with sides and salads priced between $4-8.
Tucked away in the charming Milk District, Pom Pom’s Teahouse & Sandwicheria is a hidden gem that’s worth seeking out. This quirky eatery specializes in gourmet sandwiches, creative teas, and eclectic desserts, all served with a side of whimsy and charm. I started with the Mama Ling Ling’s Thanksgiving Sandwich—a hearty creation featuring turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and cream cheese on fresh-baked bread. Each bite was a delicious homage to the flavors of the holiday season, with the perfect balance of sweet and savory notes. For dessert, I couldn’t resist the Red Velvet Whoopie Pie—a decadent treat filled with rich cream cheese frosting and sprinkled with powdered sugar. It was the perfect ending to a delightful meal that left me feeling satisfied and smiling.
Recommendation: 4.7/5
Booking Platform: Pom Pom’s operates on a first-come, first-served basis, so be prepared to wait during peak hours.
Nearby Attractions: After enjoying a delicious meal at Pom Pom’s, take a short drive to Lake Eola Park and rent a swan boat for a leisurely paddle around the scenic lake, where you can enjoy stunning skyline views and peaceful surroundings.
Exploring Orlando’s culinary scene was a culinary journey filled with delightful surprises, bold flavors, and unforgettable experiences. From Southern comfort food to Asian street fare, each dining destination offered a unique glimpse into the city’s diverse flavors and culinary traditions. Whether you’re a foodie, an adventurer, or simply craving a delicious meal, Orlando’s culinary landscape has something to satisfy every palate and craving.
