The Cove at Port Canaveral is home to plenty of waterfront restaurants serving up fresh fish tacos and mahi-mahi sandwiches. Orlando has its fair share of celebrity chef-led, farm-to-table spots— and character meals are popular at the theme park resorts. And the Mills 50 District north of downtown Orlando is famous for its Vietnamese fare.
While Orlando is famous for its theme parks, it's also a thriving culinary destination offering a diverse array of flavors. From soul-satisfying Southern comfort food to international cuisines, here's a taste of Orlando's vibrant local dining scene.
Southern Comfort Food: Dive into the world of Southern cuisine in Orlando. Try classic dishes like fried chicken, collard greens, and shrimp and grits at local restaurants. Don't forget to savor some mouthwatering BBQ, a Southern specialty.
Cuban Fare: Explore the flavors of Cuba at Orlando's Cuban restaurants. Enjoy a hearty Cuban sandwich or a plate of flavorful ropa vieja, a shredded beef dish served with rice and beans.
Seafood: With its proximity to the coast, Orlando serves up fresh seafood with a Floridian twist. Indulge in succulent grouper, shrimp scampi, or a seafood boil at seafood restaurants throughout the city.
Latin Cuisine: Orlando's Latin dining scene is thriving, with restaurants offering dishes from various Latin American countries. Savor empanadas, arepas, and delicious ceviche as you explore the city's Latin flavors.
Soul Food: Experience the rich and comforting flavors of soul food in Orlando. Try dishes like fried catfish, macaroni and cheese, and sweet potato pie at local soul food joints.
Food Trucks: Orlando's food truck scene is alive and kicking, offering a diverse range of street food. Hunt down gourmet burgers, tacos, Thai cuisine, and more at various food truck gatherings and events.
International Cuisine: Orlando is a melting pot of cultures, and its dining scene reflects that diversity. Explore international cuisines from around the world, including Thai, Vietnamese, Indian, Ethiopian, and more.
Craft Breweries: Pair your meal with a local craft beer from one of Orlando's many breweries. Sip on IPAs, stouts, and lagers while enjoying the vibrant brewery scene.
Farm-to-Table Dining: Orlando embraces the farm-to-table movement, with restaurants featuring locally sourced ingredients. Enjoy dishes made with fresh produce and artisanal products from Florida.
Desserts and Sweet Treats: End your meal on a sweet note with Orlando's delectable desserts. Try key lime pie, Florida orange cake, or indulge in gourmet chocolates and gelato.
Whether you're craving comfort food, international flavors, or fresh seafood, Orlando's local cuisine has something for every palate. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the city's diverse culinary landscape and savor the flavors that make Orlando a delicious destination.
