Plan Your Food Tour: Top 16 Spots to Eat in Orlando, FL
You could definitely survive your Orlando trip on turkey legs and Dole Whip alone—quite happily, in fact. But you really should think bigger. Why? Because the city’s food scene leaves little to be desired, featuring everything from crispy alligator bites to rich, flavorful ramen. And you don’t have to venture far to find the top spots. Here’s where to start.
Cafe Tu Tu Tango
8625 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819
Whenever you find yourself on International Drive, stop by Cafe Tu Tu Tango. It’s honestly the least you could do for yourself after a day of theme park hopping. Globally-inspired tapas await your arrival all day long, ranging from Dynamite Shrimp and Beef Kebabs to exciting Spiced Alligator Bites.
When you want to start your day off right, come by for brunch. Not only will you find Bananas Foster, Churro Waffles, and so much more, but also live entertainment. It’s always different, too. Tango dancers, puppeteers, opera singers, magicians, and many other talented entertainers drop by to strut their stuff.
If you didn’t get enough entertainment during brunch, come back in the evening hours. The entertainers hop back onstage for another round—and the drinks flow freely. Treat yourself to The Jerry Margarita and other imaginative cocktails, or think a little more upscale and order wine by the bottle. Holding out for happy hour specials? Swing by on weekdays from 3 pm to 6 pm.
Santiago's Bodega
802 Virginia Dr, Orlando, FL 32803
Ivanhoe Village wouldn’t be the same without Santiago’s Bodega. Many consider it the neighborhood’s living room, where mismatched chairs meet custom art—it’s a whole vibe, not just a tapas restaurant. Still, the small bite plates are the star of the show, followed closely by the Sangria.
All you have to do is arrive hungry—and curious—and then let your taste buds guide the experience. And if you’re dining with friends, be quick because it’s amazing how fast the Patatas Bravas, Miniature Quesadillas, and Roman Meatballs vanish from the plates. But don’t worry, you can always order more.
Also, ask to keep the Sangria flowing if that’s your jam. The fresh fruit soaks up all that delicious wine, creating a drink that’s dangerously sippable. Want to switch it up? Order the super-savory Bodega Bloody Mary instead.
The Stubborn Mule
100 S Eola Dr Unit 103, Orlando, FL 32801
An Orlando restaurant wholly dedicated to the classic Moscow Mule? That’s what The Stubborn Mule is all about, but this downtown eatery goes beyond one-note. You just have to look beyond their copper mug game to see the magic that’s their elevated pub fare.
Start with the brunch menu, and you’ll see that they hold nothing back. Waffle Burgers? Tuscan Shrimp Caesar salads? Salmon Bennys? Yes, please. It’s all there. The lunch and dinner menu builds on that, bringing Korean BBQ Ribs, Fresh Catch BLTs, and Chicken Linguine to the table.
As far as drinks go, a taste of their signature Moscow Mule is a must, of course. But there’s also plenty of wines by the glass and draft beer on tap. Get deals on all these and more during happy hour, running every day from 3 pm to 6 pm and again on Friday and Saturday from 10 pm to 11 pm.
Kres Chophouse
17 W Church St, Orlando, FL 32801
When the menu’s got the date at the top, you know it’s going to be good—and Kres Chophouse delivers. This isn’t your typical stuffy steakhouse. It’s a reimagining of the classic American chophouse, with dishes made using the freshest local ingredients every time.
The steaks still serve as the headliners, though. They’re house-aged, hand-cut, and always seared to absolute perfection. Only the best cuts appear here, too, including Ribeye, New York Strip, and Filet Mignon. Feeling adventurous? Explore wilder options like Porterhouse Lamb Loins or New Zealand Elk.
But here’s what really sets Kres apart: the prix fixe three-course vegan menu. Standouts include Hearts of Palm “Lobster,” Vegan “Beef” Wellington, and “Oysters” Rockefeller. Every ingredient works double time to make the meal feel just as rich and luxurious as the steakhouse favorites.
Knife & Spoon
4012 Central Florida Pkwy, Orlando, FL 32837
When you’re ready to trade your Mickey ears for a night of culinary sophistication, Knife & Spoon at The Ritz-Carlton is where the magic really happens. Award-winning chef John Tesar stands behind the curtain, crafting a steakhouse experience unlike any other.
Every last dish gets the royal treatment here. The steaks are dry-aged in-house, taking already premium cuts to the next level. Then, they’re expertly seared until a perfect crust forms, yet the tender meat still practically melts in your mouth with each bite.
It’s true that the steak is always amazing, but don’t let that distract you from the seafood. All of Florida’s freshest catches appear here, including yellowfin tuna, king crab, and diver scallops. You can even get the Dayboat Catch for an unmatched fresh seafood experience to remember.
DOMU
East End Market, 3201 Corrine Dr Suite 100, Orlando, FL 32803
Think DOMU is just another ramen restaurant? Think again. It’s a dream brought to life by Chef Sonny Nguyen (literally—the name stands for “a dream come true”). Within this ethereal eatery, house-made noodles meet 24-hour broths in a hip-hop setting. You truly have to see it to believe it.
Steaming bowls of perfection take center stage, from the miso- and shoyu-pork-infused Richie Rich (featured on “Somebody Feed Phil”) to the spicy chicken Curry ramen. Even the vegan option—a shiitake-tomato broth with fried tofu—makes everything drop away as you savor every morsel.
DOMU isn’t just about ramen, though. Share crispy, buttery DOMU Wings, Tako, and Beet Poke for a flavor explosion in every bite. Then, complete your meal with some seasonal cocktails with playful names like Romano on the Beet (why yes, there is parmesan cheese in it).
Se7en Bites
617 S Primrose Dr, Orlando, FL 32803
Comfort food can be cool. Don’t believe us? Just check out Se7en Bites for all the proof you need. Featured multiple times on the beloved Triple D (“Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives), this spot turns nostalgia on its head, one reimagined Southern dish at a time.
Take their famous Minnie Pearl chicken and waffles. Crispy fried chicken meets pearl sugar waffles, all drizzled with vanilla bean syrup and a perfectly runny egg. With dishes like that (and there are many more), it’s no wonder Guy Fieri keeps coming back.
Libations flow freely, too. Treat yourself to an Orange Blossom Pilsner, Signature Peach Lavender Mimosa, or House Tropical Sangria for sip after sip of deliciousness. Or maybe you’d like to completely shock your taste buds by ordering up the Bacon Jalapeno Bloody Mary. The choice is yours.
Reyes Mezcaleria
821 N Orange Ave, Orlando, FL 32801
Forget everything you ever thought you knew about Mexican dining. Reyes Mezcaleria is here to rewrite the rules. And it all starts with over 150 agave selections. Let the knowledgeable bartenders guide you through flights of small-batch mezcals to experience the best of the best.
Then, turn your attention to their imaginative Florida eats, where Executive Chef Wendy Lopez works her magic. The dishes range from small bite delights like Picadillo Empanadas to the full Lamb Birria spread. Even the guacamole transcends the ordinary, topped with crunchy chapulines (grasshoppers) for the truly adventurous.
The best part? You can come by for brunch and then return for lunch, dinner, and even drinks later in the evening. Bring your whole crew or just that special someone. Either way, you’ll leave planning your next visit.
Enzo’s Hideaway
1560 E Buena Vista Dr, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
You would not believe that the perfect place to grab a Prohibition-themed cocktail is tucked right below one of the bridges in Disney Springs, but trust us, it's worth seeking out. Enzo's Hideaway feels like stumbling upon a genuine speakeasy secret, complete with a mysterious entrance that leads you through a tunnel system into a world of retro charm and cozy aesthetics. With about 7 years of hospitality expertise behind them, this team has mastered the art of making guests feel like they've discovered something truly special.
The magic continues once you're inside, where creative Italian dishes like Prosciutto e Melone and soul-warming Pasta Della Nonna pair beautifully with their legendary cocktails, especially their famous Hazelnut Old-Fashioned. The atmosphere sways between relaxed, yet stylish, and if you're lucky enough to snag a spot in their cozy backroom (yes, there's an adorable tucked away room!), you'll be dining surrounded by wine bottles and intimate lighting that makes every conversation feel meaningful. Their impressive wine list and top-notch hospitality create an experience that feels authentically removed from the typical Disney Springs hustle, making it the perfect hidden gem to check off your list.
Hash House A Go Go
5350 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819
Walking into Hash House A Go Go feels like coming home - if home happened to smell like the most incredible combination of sweet and savory breakfast aromas that hit you the moment you step through the door. The helpful staff here is genuinely excited to make your dining experience memorable. Whether you're craving classic comfort like their famous Chicken & Waffles or feeling adventurous enough to try something with a Southern twist like the Fried Chicken Benedict, the savory options here absolutely steal the show.
But here's the real insider tip: don't even think about skipping those large, fluffy pancakes that are practically begging to be shared around the table. Hash House A Go Go has mastered the art of bringing melt-in-your-mouth flavors to Orlando's brunch scene, and it truly shows in every single bite. Pair any of these dishes with one of their perfectly crafted Bloody Marys, and you've got yourself the recipe for a morning (or afternoon, we don't judge!) that feels like pure comfort food bliss.
Homecomin’ Kitchen
1602 East Buena Vista Drive, Orlando, FL 32830
When you've got Oprah's former personal chef running the kitchen, you know you're in for something special, and that's exactly what you'll find at Homecomin'. Chef Art Smith brings serious culinary credibility to Walt Disney World's food scene, having made his mark with four incredible restaurants and a well-deserved reputation as a celebrity chef who truly knows his way around comfort food. But what makes this restaurant truly shine is its commitment to fresh, local ingredients, which let Florida's flavors take center stage in every single dish.
The menu is truly a love letter to the South, from Art's Hot Chicken Sandwich that gives the bold buffalo-style flavors the region is known for, to the St. Augustine Mahi-Mahi that celebrates Florida's local seafood scene.
The Southern charm doesn't stop at the food! The exterior and interior design perfectly match the comfort-food vibe, creating an atmosphere that feels authentically homey. Whether you're popping in mid-day to refuel for more Disney adventures or winding down with one of their signature moonshine cocktails on the back porch as the sun sets, Homecomin' delivers on its promise to make you feel like you've found your home away from home.
Sanaa
3701 Osceola Pkwy, Kissimmee, FL 34747
If you're looking for an escape to the Savanna without leaving Disney property, you absolutely need to schedule a reservation at Disney's Animal Kingdom's beloved Sanaa. The moment you step inside, those dramatic arched windows offering glimpses of roaming animals and the tree-like structures spreading throughout the restaurant create an atmosphere that transports you from Florida straight to the heart of Africa. If the gorgeous interior doesn't completely wow you, just wait until you taste the food, because that's where Sanaa leaves visitors coming back for more!
Sanaa has mastered the pairing of African cooking techniques with bold Indian flavors, creating a one-of-a-kind restaurant at Disney World. They've got you covered whether you're looking for a quick morning fuel-up with their casual Kuamsha Breakfast (no reservations needed with this) or ready to settle in for their signature table-service lunch and dinner experience.
If you're planning on the full dining adventure, reservations are recommended as they do fill up fast, and trust us, you don't want to miss out on watching zebras stroll by while you're savoring some of the most unique flavors Disney has to offer!
Jungle Navigation Co. LTD Skipper Canteen
1180 Seven Seas Drive, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
With the overwhelming options of Adventureland’s food scene, don’t skip past Skipper Canteen. This spot is quietly serving up some of the most adventurous and delicious food in all of Adventureland. Reviews consistently praise it as "one of the best table-service options at Magic Kingdom" with incredible waitstaff, unmatched atmosphere, and delicious food at fair pricing.
The restaurant's commitment to what they call "World Famous Jungle Cuisine" isn't just marketing speak - they're genuinely delivering South American, Asian, and African-inspired dishes that you simply won't find anywhere else in the park!
The theming extends beyond just jungle puns (though there are plenty of those) into multiple themed dining rooms that feel like you're actually dining in different outposts of a jungle expedition company. Whether you're trying their famous Falls Family Falafel or the Orinoco Ida's Cachapas with beer-braised pork, this is comfort food with a serious adventurous streak. It's also very accommodating for dietary restrictions, with options that are quite friendly for gluten-free and dairy-free needs.
Simply Capri
Flamingo Crossings, 114 Ruby Red Pl, Winter Garden, FL 34787
Simply Capri is proof that sometimes the best discoveries happen just outside the Disney bubble! This stunning Italian restaurant opened in November 2023 at Flamingo Crossings, and it's already winning over locals and visitors with its commitment to bringing the best of Italy's Amalfi Coast to Central Florida.
The airy, welcoming space immediately transports you with its thoughtful interior design, but it's the authentic Italian approach to food that really seals the deal. They offer fresh, high-quality ingredients and the subtle, sophisticated flavors that maintain the integrity of what true Italian food tastes like.
What makes Simply Capri special is its dedication to doing Italian cuisine the right way: wood-fired pizzas, house-made pastas, and classic meat and seafood dishes that let quality ingredients take precedent. The welcoming staff creates an upscale yet casual atmosphere that works whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just craving exceptional Italian food after a long day at the parks. The menu offers a nice variety of sophisticated options, from perfectly prepared seafood to rich, comforting pasta dishes that showcase the kitchen's attention to traditional techniques.
Takumi-Tea
200 Epcot Center Dr, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
In a Disney dining scene that's been trending toward casual and quick-service for years, Takumi-Tei stands as a refreshing return to genuine fine dining excellence. This upscale Japanese restaurant at EPCOT represents Disney's commitment to bringing world-class culinary experiences to the parks, and reviewers consistently rate it highly for both food quality and sophisticated atmosphere.
The restaurant focuses on traditional Japanese techniques and premium ingredients, creating an intimate dining experience that feels worlds away from typical theme food. Takumi-Tei is dedicated to authenticity and attention to detail, which is what brings visitors back.
Guests consistently report that the experience justifies the premium pricing through exceptional service, beautiful presentation, and flavors that are truly unforgettable. This is the kind of place where every element, from the serene atmosphere to the expertly prepared dishes, works together to create something truly special!
Kabooki
3122 E Colonial Dr, Orlando, FL 32803 (East Colonial Location)
7705 Turkey Lake Rd, Orlando, FL 32819 (Sand Lake Location)
When sushi enthusiasts in Orlando want to get serious about their dining, they head to Kabooki Sushi - and for good reason. This stylish, modern restaurant has earned James Beard recognition and a devoted following of self-proclaimed "sushi snobs" who consistently rave about the quality and creativity coming out of Chef Henry Moso's kitchen.
With two locations (East Colonial and Sand Lake), Kabooki combines locally sourced, seasonal ingredients with premium cuts from Japan, creating what many consider "the best sushi in Orlando." Reviews consistently highlight the freshness of the seafood, the knowledge of the wait staff, and dishes like their famous tuna appetizer with bubu rice crackers that keep guests happy and coming back time and time again. While it is pricier than your average sushi spot, the quality absolutely justifies the investment.
When you’re in the mood for a full-on culinary adventure, Orlando won’t let you down. But here’s the truth: You can’t taste all the best Orlando restaurants in one day. To truly savor every delicious moment, you’ll need to stay for the weekend (or maybe even the whole week).
Luckily, our local partners, Element Vacation Homes, know the city inside and out. They’ll help you find the best Orlando accommodations so you can turn your food crawl into the ultimate getaway. Because when the flavors are this good, you don’t just pass through—you settle in and feast.
