Central Florida is known for many things: world-class theme parks, nature trails, sparkling springs, wineries, and calling all foodies — some of the best restaurants in the nation! In fact, Orlando recently topped many “Best Foodie Cities in America” lists.
From comfort food to cultural cuisine and culinary fusions to Michelin-starred masterpieces, you’ll find it all at Central Florida restaurants! Of course, dining out doesn’t always have to mean dining in. Central Florida is also full of great food trucks, market halls, and takeout places, so you can always grab a bite to go and enjoy eating in at your vacation rental.
It was no easy task with so much good food, but we narrowed down some of the best restaurants in Central Florida. To help take the guesswork out of your lunch or dinner plans, here are seven great restaurants to try during your trip!
1. Soseki
Photo Credit: khathar ranglak
- Address: 955 West Fairbanks Avenue, Winter Park, FL
- Website: sosekifl.com
- Price Point: $$$
- Favorite Menu Items: Omakase “Chef’s Choice” Dinner
You’ll find no menus at Soseki, but potential patrons are always vying for a chance to snag a spot at this exclusive Michelin-starred Japanese restaurant in Winter Park. Famous for its Omakase, or “Chef’s Choice” style of dining, Soseki serves up surprises at every turn. From sushi and nigiri to seared steak tips and artfully curated desserts, diners are treated to handcrafted masterpieces with each course.
Master Sushi Chef Michael Collantes and Michelin-starred Master Sommelier Benjamin Coutts, head up your dining experience at Soseki. Both ensure each guest is treated to the ultimate fine dining experience using the freshest ingredients, complemented by sakes and wines from around the world.
Soseki is a one-of-a-kind, multi-course, immersive culinary experience for sushi lovers, adventurous foodies, and curious connoisseurs alike!
2. Luke’s Kitchen and Bar
Photo Credit: MOUTASEM PHOTOGRAPHY
- Address: 64 South Orlando Avenue, Maitland, FL
- Website: eatatlukes.com
- Price Point: $$
- Favorite Menu Items: Snapper Ceviche, Carnival Squash, and PB&J Semifreddo
Just outside of Orlando, Luke’s Kitchen and Bar serves up an array of creative dishes in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Guest favorites include the snapper ceviche with fresh oranges and almonds and carnival squash with maple glaze and hazelnuts. For dessert, the PB&J Semifreddo is a must-try! This luscious frozen layer cake is made with all the flavors of everyone’s childhood favorite.
With a diverse menu, Luke’s offers something for everyone. Seafood lovers will enjoy the wide array of fresh fish offerings as well as the raw bar featuring oysters, shrimp, and more. Landlubbers can enjoy burgers and steakhouse classics. For vegan and vegetarian diners, Luke’s offers an impressive menu of plant-based dishes, including fresh salads, roasted veggie mains, soups, and flatbreads. On the weekends, you’ll also find brunch specialties.
Luke’s also offers a full bar with creative cocktails, wine, and local craft beer on tap. It’s the perfect place to grab lunch with the family, have a night out with friends, or enjoy a laid-back Sunday brunch.
3. Prato
Photo Credit: Lou Stejskal via Flickr CC 2.0
- Address: 124 North Winter Park Avenue, Winter Park, FL
- Website: prato-wp.com
- Price Point: $$
- Favorite Menu Items: Apricot Crostini, Pizza Margherita, and Marcona Almond Tortellini
Serving up classic Italian specialties with cozy candlelit ambiance, Prato is the perfect date night destination in Winter Park. While you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu at Prato, there are some dishes that keep the locals raving. The apricot crostini with pistachio and stracciatella, the classic Pizza Margherita topped with fresh tomato and basil, and the delightfully different Marcona almond tortellini tossed in a broccoli pesto are all must-trys!
Prato also offers an extensive “vino” list, full of award-winning Italian wines to complement your meal, and a “dolci” menu to end your evening with something sweet. While the tiramisu is a classic favorite, if you’re in the mood to try something a little different, Prato’s signature olive oil cake with figs and ricotta is not to be missed.
4. The Ravenous Pig
Photo Credit: Via Tsuji via Flickr CC 2.0
- Address: 565 West Fairbanks Avenue, Winter Park, FL
- Website: theravenouspig.com
- Price Point: $$
- Favorite Menu Items: Mushroom and Gruyere Beignets, Pub Burger with blue cheese and truffle fries, and Thai Curry Mussels
The resume of The Ravenous Pig is quite an impressive one — restaurant, pub, brewery, and beer garden, there’s nothing but good times to be had here! Be sure to come hungry because The Ravenous Pig lives up to its name and offers a diverse menu with American, Italian, French, Latin, and Asian influences. The mushroom and gruyere beignets, pub burger with blue cheese and truffle fries, and Thai curry mussels are all local favorites.
If you’re just looking for some beer and bites, The Ravenous Pig has you covered. You can relax in their outdoor beer garden, sampling craft beer and snacking on one of their small plates or signature Charcuterie Platters, or pull up a chair at the pub for a pint. If you like what you try, you can even grab a growler to go.
The Ravenous Pig is the perfect spot for beer lovers, foodies, or those just looking for a place to hang out with good food and good vibes!
5. F&D Woodfired Italian Kitchen
Photo Credit: Gaus Alex
- Address: 2635 Curry Ford Road, Orlando, FL
- Website: fdwoodfireditaliankitchen.com
- Price Point: $$
- Favorite Menu Items: Woodfired “Baby Blue” Pizza, Woodfired Salmon, and Pistachio Cream Cannoli
If you’re in the mood for pizza, F&D Woodfired Italian Kitchen has some of the best pies around. From true Italian classics like Pizza Bianca or Margherita to creative offerings like their signature “Baby Blue” made with caramelized onions and blue cheese. They even offer a wide variety of vegan pizzas made with plant-based meats and cheeses. If pizza for breakfast sounds like your idea of a good time, head over on Sunday when they open early to serve up their famous breakfast pizzas.
If you’re not in the mood for pizza, F&D Woodfired Italian Kitchen still has you covered with classic Italian and Mediterranean dishes like Cacio E Pepe, Chicken Marsala, and their signature woodfired salmon. For dessert, the pistachio cream cannolis are, by far, the most talked about!
With its warm and cozy woodfired oven, brick walls, and delicious comfort food classics, F&D Woodfired Italian Kitchen is the perfect place for a relaxing evening with family or friends.
6. Black Rooster Taqueria
Photo Credit: from my point of view
- Address: 1323 North Mills Avenue, Orlando, FL
- Address: 3097 Curry Ford Rd, Orlando, FL
- Website: blackroostertaqueria.com
- Price Point: $
- Favorite Menu Items: Made-to-order Guacamole, Carne Asada, and Chocolate Chipotle Flan
At first glance, this small casual taco shop doesn’t look out of the ordinary, but there’s a reason it has been featured in Condé Nast Traveler, is top-rated on Tripadvisor, and has earned a Michelin Bib Gourmand Award. Here, you’ll find some of the best tacos in Florida, maybe even the country!
Visitors and locals alike can’t get enough of Black Rooster Taqueria’s Mexican and Latin-inspired dishes, like their made-to-order guacamole, Carne Asada, Colombian-style beans, and chocolate chipotle flan. The tacos at Black Rooster are so popular that they’ve opened a second location. So whether you have a taco craving in the North or South Orlando area, Black Rooster has you covered!
7. Ovation Bistro and Bar
Photo Credit: KAD Photo
- Address: 42605 Highway 27, North Davenport, FL
- Website: ovationbistro.com
- Price Point: $$
- Favorite Menu Items: Guinness Beer Cheese with Pretzel Bread, BBQ Ranch Chicken Salad, and Sweet and Tangy Salmon
With a fun atmosphere featuring live music, a menu of comfort food and steakhouse favorites, and plenty of beer on tap, Ovation Bar and Bistro is the perfect place for a night out. Patrons will find a hearty variety of entrees to choose from, including old-fashioned Southern BBQ, steaks, burgers, seafood, salads, and more. They even offer gluten-free and vegetarian options.
If you’re a beer lover and a foodie, the Guinness beer cheese with pretzel bread appetizer is a must-try. Pair with a craft beer flight for the ultimate beer and cheese experience! BBQ fans have a wide selection of meats and sides or can try their famous BBQ ranch chicken salad for a lighter bite. Seafood lovers will enjoy their signature sweet and tangy salmon. There’s something for everyone at Ovation Bar and Bistro!
Eat, Play, and Stay in Central Florida
With just as many things to do as there are places to eat, Central Florida is the ultimate destination for thrill seekers, nature lovers, and foodies alike! Whether you’re looking for a quick bite on your way to Walt Disney World, a slice of pizza or a taco after a long day of hiking, or a romantic spot for date night, you’ll find something to fill all your cravings in Central Florida.
Looking for a place to stay in the center of it all? Element Vacation Homes can help you plan your perfect getaway just minutes from all the best theme parks, natural areas, and restaurants in Central Florida. With luxurious amenities like private theaters and pools, you can enjoy all the best amenities without the noise and crowds of big hotels. Book your stay today!
