IN THE SPOTLIGHT
Stories that reflect the vibrant cultural landscape of our community and expression of diverse local perspectives.
Since 1989, United Arts has been on a mission to enrich communities by investing in arts, science and history.
Funding is just one piece of the puzzle. To truly make art thrive, United Arts has built programs that help bring the arts to everyone — programs that bolster curriculums, champion diversity, and advocate to local governments.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Beyond the Michelin stars and James Beard accolades, Central Florida is home to a vibrant community of local restaurants that have earned loyal followings.
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.
Central Florida is also home to a thriving vegan dining scene, offering plant-based cuisine that doesn’t compromise on flavor or creativity.
Food enthusiasts can dive deeper into Central Florida’s culinary culture through interactive dining experiences and festivals that celebrate food as an art form.
Embark on your Central Florida culinary adventure today, and savor the flavors and experiences that make this region a true gastronomic destination!
Stories that reflect the vibrant cultural landscape of our community and expression of diverse local perspectives.
Discover all the art events, shows, stories and culture in Central Florida.