Orlando Foodie Guide: Complete Culinary Experience

Explore the best restaurants, food tours, local cuisine, street food, and culinary experiences in Orlando. Your complete guide to dining in Orlando.

ByFun Around Me Team
5 min read

Welcome to the ultimate foodie guide for Orlando! Whether you're a local food enthusiast or a visiting gourmand, this comprehensive guide will help you discover the very best culinary experiences that Orlando has to offer. From Michelin-starred restaurants to hidden street food gems, authentic local specialties to innovative fusion cuisine, we've curated the essential dining experiences that showcase Orlando's vibrant food scene. Our carefully selected recommendations include insider tips, must-try dishes, and everything you need to eat your way through Orlando like a true food lover.

Key Takeaways

  • Orlando offers diverse culinary experiences from fine dining to street food
  • Local specialties and regional dishes are must-tries for authentic flavors
  • Food tours and cooking classes provide immersive culinary experiences
  • Reservations recommended for popular restaurants, especially on weekends
  • Markets and food halls offer great variety and local atmosphere

Must-Try Restaurants

From hidden gems to acclaimed establishments, these restaurants showcase the best of local and international cuisine in Orlando.

The Monroe

Highly rated Restaurant in Orlando with 4.5 stars from 814 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.

πŸ“ 448 N Terry Ave, Orlando, FL 32801, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

The Stubborn Mule

Highly rated American in Orlando with 4.4 stars from 3130 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

πŸ“ 100 S Eola Dr Unit 103, Orlando, FL 32801, USA

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic American cuisine

Better Than Sex - A Dessert Restaurant

Highly rated Restaurant in Orlando with 4.8 stars from 3467 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

πŸ“ 1905 N Orange Ave, Orlando, FL 32804, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

DOMU

Highly rated Japanese in Orlando with 4.5 stars from 3168 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

πŸ“ East End Market, 3201 Corrine Dr Suite 100, Orlando, FL 32803, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic Japanese cuisine

Kres Chophouse

Highly rated Steakhouse in Orlando with 4.7 stars from 3164 reviews. Offers fine dining experience with exceptional service.

πŸ“ 17 W Church St, Orlando, FL 32801, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Upscale dining experience
  • 🍽️Authentic Steakhouse cuisine

CafΓ© Tu Tu Tango

Highly rated Restaurant in Orlando with 4.6 stars from 10235 reviews.

πŸ“ 8625 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

White Wolf Cafe

Highly rated Cafe in Orlando with 4.5 stars from 2739 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.

πŸ“ 1829 N Orange Ave, Orlando, FL 32804, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine

Salt & The Cellar by Akira Back

Highly rated Restaurant in Orlando with 4.8 stars from 826 reviews.

πŸ“ Located on the main level of the ultra elevated ette hotel Orlando, 3001 Sherberth Rd, Kissimmee, FL 34747, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Upscale dining experience

Thrive Cocktail Lounge & Eatery

Highly rated Restaurant in Orlando with 4.7 stars from 1283 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

πŸ“ 13 S Orange Ave, Orlando, FL 32801, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Santiago's Bodega

Highly rated Mediterranean in Orlando with 4.6 stars from 4050 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

πŸ“ 802 Virginia Dr, Orlando, FL 32803, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic Mediterranean cuisine

Mrs. Potato Restaurant

Highly rated Restaurant in Orlando with 4.7 stars from 2614 reviews.

πŸ“ 4550 S Kirkman Rd, Orlando, FL 32811, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Budget-friendly prices

Foreigner Restaurant

Highly rated Restaurant in Orlando with 4.9 stars from 154 reviews. Offers fine dining experience with exceptional service.

πŸ“ 2816 Corrine Dr, Orlando, FL 32803, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Street Food & Food Markets

Authentic street food vendors, bustling food markets, and local favorites where you'll find the most flavorful and affordable bites in Orlando.

East End Market

Highly rated Japanese in Orlando with 4.7 stars from 2750 reviews.

πŸ“ 3201 Corrine Dr, Orlando, FL 32803, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic Japanese cuisine

Mills Market

Highly rated International in Orlando with 4.8 stars from 752 reviews.

πŸ“ 1110 E Colonial Dr, Orlando, FL 32803, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Freshfields Farm

Highly rated International in Orlando with 4.8 stars from 3466 reviews.

πŸ“ 400 Compton St, Orlando, FL 32806, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Lotte Plaza Market at Orlando

Highly rated International in Orlando with 4.5 stars from 3724 reviews.

πŸ“ 3191 W Colonial Dr, Orlando, FL 32808, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Plant St. Market

Highly rated International in Orlando with 4.8 stars from 2729 reviews.

πŸ“ 426 W Plant St, Winter Garden, FL 34787, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Clemons Produce

Highly rated International in Orlando with 4.7 stars from 729 reviews.

πŸ“ 3325 Curry Ford Rd, Orlando, FL 32806, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

The Fresh Market

Highly rated Bakery in Orlando with 4.5 stars from 1028 reviews. Fresh baked goods and pastries daily.

πŸ“ 5000 Dr Phillips Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Upscale dining experience
  • 🍽️Authentic Bakery cuisine

The Fresh Market

Highly rated Bakery in Orlando with 4.5 stars from 1736 reviews. Fresh baked goods and pastries daily.

πŸ“ 612 Centerview Blvd, Kissimmee, FL 34741, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Upscale dining experience
  • 🍽️Authentic Bakery cuisine

Food Tours & Culinary Experiences

Guided food tours, cooking classes, wine tastings, and immersive culinary experiences led by local experts in Orlando.

Sanford Food Tours

Highly rated International in Orlando with 4.9 stars from 11 reviews.

  • β€’Book in advance, especially during peak season
  • β€’Arrive 10-15 minutes early
  • β€’Wear comfortable walking shoes
  • β€’Bring a camera for memorable moments
  • β€’Ask your guide for local recommendations

West Palm Beach Food Tours

Highly rated International in Orlando with 5 stars from 170 reviews.

  • β€’Book in advance, especially during peak season
  • β€’Arrive 10-15 minutes early
  • β€’Wear comfortable walking shoes
  • β€’Bring a camera for memorable moments
  • β€’Ask your guide for local recommendations

Cafes & Bakeries

Artisanal coffee shops, charming cafes, and bakeries serving fresh pastries, breads, and sweet treats in Orlando.

Craft & Common

Highly rated Cafe in Orlando with 4.7 stars from 1615 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.

πŸ“ 47 E Robinson St UNIT 100, Orlando, FL 32801, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine

Qreate Coffee + Studio

Highly rated Cafe in Orlando with 4.8 stars from 607 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.

πŸ“ 1212 Woodward St #1, Orlando, FL 32803, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
  • 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine

But First. Coffee Shop

Highly rated Cafe in Orlando with 4.9 stars from 968 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.

πŸ“ 7726 Winegard Rd #101, Pine Castle, FL 32809, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
  • 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine

Stemma Craft Coffee

Highly rated Cafe in Orlando with 4.7 stars from 597 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.

πŸ“ 328 N Orange Ave, Orlando, FL 32801, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine

Bynx Orlando

Highly rated Cafe in Orlando with 4.7 stars from 368 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.

πŸ“ 420 E Church St #118, Orlando, FL 32801, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine

Oh Hey Cafe

Highly rated Cafe in Orlando with 4.8 stars from 120 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.

πŸ“ 1325 Lee Rd, Orlando, FL 32810, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine

Deeply Coffee Company

Highly rated Cafe in Orlando with 4.5 stars from 735 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.

πŸ“ 111 N Magnolia Ave #50, Orlando, FL 32801, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
  • 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine

Mariam Coffee Shop

Highly rated Cafe in Orlando with 4.7 stars from 252 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.

πŸ“ 361 N Rosalind Ave ste 5, Orlando, FL 32801, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine

Local Specialties & Signature Dishes

Regional dishes, local delicacies, and signature foods you absolutely must try during your visit to Orlando.

Signature Dish

A must-try Orlando specialty that showcases the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.

  • β€’Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • β€’Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • β€’Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • β€’Try it at multiple places to compare
  • β€’Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Local Delicacy

This beloved Orlando dish has been perfected over generations and remains a local favorite.

  • β€’Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • β€’Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • β€’Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • β€’Try it at multiple places to compare
  • β€’Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Traditional Recipe

Experience the authentic taste of Orlando with this traditional preparation that honors local ingredients.

  • β€’Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • β€’Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • β€’Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • β€’Try it at multiple places to compare
  • β€’Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Street Food Favorite

Discover why this Orlando specialty has earned its reputation as an essential culinary experience.

  • β€’Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • β€’Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • β€’Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • β€’Try it at multiple places to compare
  • β€’Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Regional Specialty

This iconic Orlando creation perfectly captures the essence of the local food culture.

  • β€’Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • β€’Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • β€’Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • β€’Try it at multiple places to compare
  • β€’Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Seasonal Treat

A Orlando classic that combines traditional techniques with fresh, quality ingredients.

  • β€’Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • β€’Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • β€’Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • β€’Try it at multiple places to compare
  • β€’Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Classic Comfort Food

A must-try Orlando specialty that showcases the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.

  • β€’Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • β€’Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • β€’Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • β€’Try it at multiple places to compare
  • β€’Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Modern Fusion

This beloved Orlando dish has been perfected over generations and remains a local favorite.

  • β€’Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • β€’Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • β€’Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • β€’Try it at multiple places to compare
  • β€’Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Artisanal Product

Experience the authentic taste of Orlando with this traditional preparation that honors local ingredients.

  • β€’Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • β€’Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • β€’Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • β€’Try it at multiple places to compare
  • β€’Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Heritage Recipe

Discover why this Orlando specialty has earned its reputation as an essential culinary experience.

  • β€’Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • β€’Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • β€’Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • β€’Try it at multiple places to compare
  • β€’Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Bars & Nightlife

Craft cocktail bars, wine bars, breweries, and unique drinking establishments with character and quality in Orlando.

AC Sky Bar

Highly rated Bar in Orlando with 4.5 stars from 1413 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

πŸ“ 333 S Garland Ave Floor 18, Orlando, FL 32801, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine

Tom's Watch Bar- Sky Bar

Highly rated Bar in Orlando with 4.8 stars from 4552 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

πŸ“ 8050 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine

Thrive Cocktail Lounge & Eatery

Highly rated Restaurant in Orlando with 4.7 stars from 1283 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

πŸ“ 13 S Orange Ave, Orlando, FL 32801, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Mathers Social Gathering

Highly rated Bar in Orlando with 4.6 stars from 1603 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

πŸ“ 3 Phoenix Building, 30 S Magnolia Ave, Orlando, FL 32801, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Upscale dining experience
  • 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine

ICEBAR Orlando

Highly rated Bar in Orlando with 4.4 stars from 2829 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

πŸ“ 8967 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819, USA

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine

Gravity Taproom

Highly rated Bar in Orlando with 4.8 stars from 294 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

πŸ“ 777 N Orange Ave Suite D, Orlando, FL 32801, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine

Essential Tips

  • 🍽️Make reservations at popular restaurants well in advance
  • 🍽️Try local specialties and regional dishes unique to the area
  • 🍽️Ask locals and hotel staff for their favorite food spots
  • 🍽️Visit food markets early in the morning for the freshest selection
  • 🍽️Don't be afraid to try street food from busy, popular vendors
  • 🍽️Take a food tour early in your visit to discover hidden gems
  • 🍽️Check restaurant hours as they can vary by day and season
  • 🍽️Bring cash for street food vendors and small local eateries
  • 🍽️Pace yourself - save room to try multiple dishes and restaurants
  • 🍽️Document your culinary journey with photos and notes

Practical Information

Best Time to Visit

Orlando's food scene thrives year-round, though each season brings unique culinary experiences. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather for outdoor dining and food festivals. Summer features fresh seasonal produce and lively food markets. Winter brings comfort food specialties and cozy indoor dining. Check local food festival calendars for special events.

Average Price

Dining costs in Orlando vary widely. Street food and casual eateries: $5-15 per person. Mid-range restaurants: $20-50 per person. Fine dining: $75-150+ per person. Food tours typically range from $50-150. Cooking classes: $75-200. Markets offer budget-friendly options for self-catering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Orlando is known for its diverse culinary offerings. Be sure to try the local specialties and regional dishes that showcase the area's unique flavors and traditions. Ask locals for their recommendations, and don't miss the signature dishes at acclaimed restaurants.

For popular and fine dining restaurants, reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner and weekends. Many sought-after spots book up weeks in advance. Casual eateries and street food vendors typically don't require reservations.

Consider taking a food tour early in your visit to get oriented and discover hidden gems. Visit local markets to see fresh ingredients and try samples. Mix fine dining with casual spots and street food for a complete experience. Don't be afraid to venture beyond tourist areas.

Most restaurants in Orlando offer vegetarian options, and vegan choices are increasingly common. Many establishments can accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice. Check menus online or call ahead to confirm options that meet your needs.

Tipping customs vary by location. In the US, 15-20% is standard for table service. In Europe, service is often included, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% is appreciated. In Asia, tipping is less common. Check local customs for Orlando specifically.

Lunch is typically served 11:30am-2pm, dinner 6pm-10pm, though hours vary by establishment and culture. For popular restaurants, consider dining earlier (before 7pm) or later (after 9pm) to avoid peak crowds. Weekend brunch is popular at many spots.

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