Explore Central Florida’s
Culinary Art and Culture
Welcome to Central Florida, where food is more than just a meal – it’s an expression of art and the soul of the region. Central Florida’s culinary scene is a melting pot of flavors, drawing from diverse cultural influences and showcasing the creativity of top chefs. From casual eateries to fine dining, each restaurant offers a unique taste of local flavor that reflects the cultural diversity of the area.
TASTES & AROMAS FROM ALL OVER THE WORLD MADE LOCALLY
AWARD-WINNING Experience
Some of the finest restaurants in Central Florida have been recognized by the prestigious Michelin Guide. These restaurants elevate dining to an art form, combining expert techniques with fresh, local ingredients to create unforgettable culinary experiences. Kadence, a Michelin-starred gem, offers a delightful omakase experience, blending the essence of Japanese cuisine with Central Florida’s fresh seafood offerings. Another standout is Papa Llama, a modern Peruvian restaurant that takes traditional flavors and elevates them with a contemporary twist. Its vibrant dishes, influenced by both Latin and global trends, have earned it a coveted spot on the Michelin Guide’s list.
There’s also a collection of restaurants that have earned James Beard Awards, a hallmark of excellence in the culinary world. The Ravenous Pig, a modern gastropub, seamlessly blends Southern comfort with innovative techniques, creating dishes that have earned acclaim for their balance of bold flavors and locally sourced ingredients.
A Culinary Journey with Phil Rosenthal
Central Florida’s vibrant dining scene was featured in the Orlando episode of Somebody Feed Phil, where food enthusiast Phil Rosenthal explored the city’s rich culinary offerings. Phil dined at Domu, known for its mouth-watering ramen, and indulged in farm-to-table Southern fare at The Strand. His culinary adventure revealed Orlando’s growing reputation as a serious food city, where local chefs are pushing boundaries and celebrating the region’s diverse culinary traditions.
Sustainability Meets Fine Dining: Michelin Green Star Winner
Kaya, recognized with the Michelin Green Star, stands as a beacon for sustainability in the culinary world. This restaurant exemplifies how responsible dining practices and exquisite flavors can coexist. Focusing on Filipino-inspired cuisine, Kaya uses locally sourced ingredients to create dishes that respect the environment, making it a leader in sustainable gastronomy in Central Florida.
Local Favorites
Beyond the Michelin stars and James Beard accolades, Central Florida is home to a vibrant community of local restaurants that have earned loyal followings.
- Se7en Bites: Known for hearty Southern comfort food, Se7en Bites has earned a reputation for its scratch-made dishes, gaining recognition on Food Network and Somebody Feed Phil.
- Maxine’s on Shine: This eclectic neighborhood gem is known for its vibrant atmosphere, hearty brunches, and live music. A local favorite for its soulful, made-from-scratch dishes, Maxine’s on Shine provides a cozy, retro dining experience in the heart of Orlando.
- Crocante: Located just east of The Milk District, Crocante serves up authentic Puerto Rican cuisine and was featured on Somebody Feed Phil. Host Phil Rosenthal enjoyed a standout dish of porchetta with a Latin/Caribbean twist, praising its bold flavors.
- Black Rooster Taqueria: This local favorite delivers an eclectic mix of Latin-inspired tacos and street fare, offering a lively and flavorful dining experience.
- Domu: A must-visit for ramen lovers, Domu serves up Japanese-inspired dishes that have earned it a spot on the MICHELIN Bib Gourmand list.
- The Strand: This farm-to-table restaurant focuses on Southern cuisine, offering dishes that emphasize freshness and seasonality.
Sweets, Coffee, and Boba Tea
For those with a sweet tooth or a craving for craft coffee and tea, Central Florida has a wide range of options that are perfect for dessert lovers and boba tea enthusiasts.
- Qreate Coffee: This modern coffee shop not only serves up artisanal coffee but also doubles as a creative workspace, providing a relaxing atmosphere for those who want to enjoy their drinks while working or socializing.
- Sampaguita: Featured on Somebody Feed Phil, this Filipino-owned dessert spot offers unique ice cream flavors like Guava Creamsicle and Soy Sauce Butterscotch, blending traditional Filipino flavors with modern twists.
- Bakery 1908: Known for its delectable baked goods, this bakery offers everything from classic pastries to innovative desserts, making it a must-visit for sweets enthusiasts.
- Kelly’s Homemade Ice Cream: A local favorite, Kelly’s serves small-batch, handcrafted ice cream in an array of classic and creative flavors, making it a go-to spot for a sweet treat on a hot day.
- Maiko Matcha: This dessert shop specializes in all things matcha, from soft-serve ice cream to matcha-infused drinks, offering a taste of authentic Japanese flavors.
- Mogee Tee: Known for its creative take on boba tea, Mogee Tee offers everything from fruity flavors to cheese foam-topped teas, making it a hotspot for bubble tea lovers.
Vegan Dining
Central Florida is also home to a thriving vegan dining scene, offering plant-based cuisine that doesn’t compromise on flavor or creativity.
- Veggie Garden Vietnamese Cuisine: Offering a fully plant-based menu, Veggie Garden serves up flavorful Vietnamese dishes that even meat-eaters will enjoy, from pho to spring rolls, all made with fresh ingredients.
- Loving Hut: This international vegan chain offers a wide variety of dishes, from Asian-inspired entrees to globally influenced plates, making it a popular spot for vegans and vegetarians alike. Their extensive menu ensures there’s something for everyone.
- Dharma Southern Cuisine: This Southern-inspired vegan restaurant serves comfort food favorites like BBQ jackfruit and vegan mac and cheese, giving plant-based diners a taste of hearty, flavorful dishes.
- Infusion Tea: Has been a local favorite since 2004, with a wide selection of loose leaf teas, and a refreshing vegetarian menu with vegan options for almost all items, that includes acai bowls, quesadillas, tacos, salads, wraps, and more.
- Earthy Picks : Offers Latin favorites like burritos, bowls, tostadas, empanadas, tacos, plus smoothies and cold pressed juices, located in downtown Orlando next door to the vegan-friendly Greenery Creamery ice cream shop.
- Kres Chophouse: Located in downtown, is a high-end steakhouse with a vegan chef who creates seasonal vegan menus including hearty entrees like the “beef” Wellington and the portobello escargot appetizer. Their 3-course prix fixe vegan menu is a go-to for special occasions.
Culinary Experiences & Events
Food enthusiasts can dive deeper into Central Florida’s culinary culture through interactive dining experiences and festivals that celebrate food as an art form.
- The Dinner Party Project: This unique dining experience brings together strangers for curated, intimate dinner parties, where the focus is on connecting people over incredible meals. Held in various locations throughout Central Florida, these events offer an opportunity to savor chef-crafted dishes in a warm and engaging setting. Learn more here.
- Diversitastic! Dining Experience: As part of the annual FusionFest, this dining experience is a celebration of the diverse cultures that call Central Florida home. The festival’s dining events highlight global cuisines, showcasing dishes from around the world prepared by local chefs. It’s a flavorful journey that connects food with community and global traditions. Learn more here.
Must-Visit Restaurants
- Kadence (Michelin Star) – For a sublime omakase experience
- Papa Llama (Michelin Guide) – Modern Peruvian cuisine
- Crocante – Authentic Puerto Rican cuisine, featured in Somebody Feed Phil
- The Ravenous Pig (James Beard Award Winner) – Modern gastropub
- Domu – Ramen and fusion eats
- Se7en Bites – Southern comfort with a twist
- The Strand – Farm-to-table Southern cuisine
Embark on your Central Florida culinary adventure today, and savor the flavors and experiences that make this region a true gastronomic destination!
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