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Well-known for its theme parks and exciting attractions, Orlando has another side that food lovers must not miss. Beyond the usual tourist spots, there is a vivid culinary scene in Orlando full of hidden gems and local favorites with some of the best food this city has to offer.
Looking for something unique to taste or a resident wanting to explore your own city? Then these are sure to delight your taste buds! Here is a peek at some of the most beloved yet under-the-radar eateries in Orlando.
Hidden Gems for Breakfast and Brunch
Se7en Bites
Start your day right with a Southern-style breakfast at Se7en Bites, an intimate bakery and café that’s become a treasure trove among locals. Nestled away in the Milk District, Se7en Bites is renowned for serving some of the best food Orlando has to offer in the form of heartwarming comfort food. Their high-calorie Seventh Trimester sandwich, made from bacon, eggs, and pimento cheese on a homemade biscuit, will leave you feeling satisfied.
And if you don’t eat their salted caramel dark chocolate pecan pie before leaving then you have missed out on real heaven experience through your mouth. This stopover is the perfect lead into an Orlando food tour.
The Sanctum Cafe
For those who prefer to begin their day on healthier terms but don’t want it any less tasty, they should visit The Sanctum Cafe-Orlando brunch restaurant. It mainly serves plant-based dishes made from fresh organic ingredients which makes them healthy as well as delicious.
Creative avocado toast topped with microgreens and drizzle of balsamic glaze looks so appetizing just like it tastes. For supper combine it up with one of their power bowls making it a balanced and satisfying meal that will sustain you throughout the day.
Local Favorites for Lunch
Black Bean Deli
Next lunchtime make sure you navigate yourself towards Black Bean Deli that is a local favourite for authentic Cuban cuisine. In this small, unpretentious place you will find a lot of taste in every meal. The Cuban sandwich here is legendary and comprises of well-roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese as well as pickles all in a crispy bread.
Try also their black bean soup which with crispy empanadas makes it very rich, filling and comforting food. It’s like discovering a secret when you get to Black Bean Deli; and once there, you’ll never stop coming back.
Beefy King
When looking for that nostalgic feeling, Beefy King is an Orlando staple known for its great tasting roast beef sandwiches since 1968. This place has a kind of retro atmosphere that gives you the impression of having traveled back in time through its décor and cuisine.
Their signature Beefy King sandwich prepared by serving heaps of tender roast beef on steamed bun can be called comfort food in every sense. In addition to this they can serve tater tots along with milkshake at lunchtime hence making it most satisfying yet soothing experience one can ever have. For many years now this place has always been loved by locals and one doesn’t need much explanation to understand why they love it so much.
Hidden Gems for Dinner
Kadence
When dinner time approaches, sushi enthusiasts can expect to have a lifetime experience at Kadence. This small sushi bar located in Audubon Park is indeed a hidden gem as it guarantees an intimate eating environment where the chef chooses dishes for clients (omakase).
The sushi quality is unmatched since every piece is carefully crafted by expert chefs. It gives one a feeling of exclusivity almost like you are into a mouthwatering secret. However, prior reservation is essential due to its limited capacity.
The Ravenous Pig
If you’re interested in experiencing modern gastropubs, then visit The Ravenous Pig. It’s located at Winter Park and loved by many people because of its inventive cooking sourced directly from the region. For instance, their pork porterhouse has both savory and smoky notes that will leave you with an unforgettable taste.
Also worth mentioning are shrimp and grits which bring a southern staple to new heights. Additionally; the restaurant changes its menu on frequent basis to guarantee that there will always be something enticing ad fresh to try out. A nice place where great food meets friendly atmosphere.
Sweet Treats and Desserts
Kelly’s Homemade Ice Cream
A dessert that isn’t complete without ice cream should definitely be tried in Kelly’s Homemade Ice Cream if you feel like having that sweet bite of goodness! This quaint ice cream parlor is popular amongst locals because it offers homemade ice cream with unusual flavors like Honey Lavender or Ube, or else go traditional with creamy vanilla flavor. Just like when we were kids, this place makes you feel young again for every scoop of happiness they serve.
Valhalla Bakery
For vegans or anyone who simply loves sinfully delicious desserts, Valhalla Bakery is an ultimate destination not miss visiting when in town. Found at Milk District, this bakery invents vegan treats so indulgent even non-vegans rave about them.
Their Death Bar, which is a rich chocolatey treat, is a crowd-pleaser and their homemade Pop-Tarts have transformed the classic from your childhood into something else. Valhalla Bakery disproves the notion that vegan desserts are less satisfying than the traditional ones.
Late-Night Eats and Snacks
Tako Cheena
For those late-night cravings, don’t forget Tako Cheena. This joint fuses flavors from all over the world in one taco. The Asian pork belly taco is an amazing blend of tender pork meat with sweet and savory glaze on top of it. Another filling option could be their Indian curry burrito if you feel really hungry. Tako Cheena is perfect for a quick bite with great flavor after a night out and it’s one of Orlando’s best kept secrets.
Gringos Locos
Another favorite haunt is Gringos Locos, renowned for its “Double D” tacos. This local chain offers both soft and hard shell tacos stuffed with beef, cheese, lettuce etc., pure comfort food especially when you need something fast to eat and fill your tummy. It’s going to be one of those places that longs for your return even after the night has passed!
Conclusion
Food in Orlando is like everything else in the city; it’s diverse, colorful and there are surprises in every corner. You can start your day with a Southern Breakfast or indulge in authentic Cuban flavors for lunch or enjoy an intimate sushi dinner.
And if you really want to have a different experience, maybe consider going for the private chef Orlando has available through websites such as CookinGenie? With a private chef, you can dine on gourmet meals while at home. Whether it’s a birthday or anniversary, make it grand by hiring a personal chef that will cook up something memorable within the walls of your house. Just give it a try; explore these gastronomic gems and see why Orlando is indeed foodies’ fantasy land.
