The 20 best restaurants in Orlando

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Otto’s High Dive (@ottoshighdive)

What is it? A neighborhood rum bar serving Cuban classics. 

Why we love it: Since 2022, Otto’s High Dive has been slinging rum-based drinks and dishing out some of the best Cuban food in the city. Be sure to bring a group of friends with you because you’re going to want to try everything on the menu. Hand-crafted cocktails are the name of the game here, with classic options like coquito and more interesting drinks like the Guava Pastelito, which combines run, guava, mascarpone, vanilla, and marzipan into a sweet, almost dessert-like drink. And don’t overlook the cocktails on tap, which are just as strong and delish as the hand-crafted options. When it’s time to eat, dive into some crab salad with pineapple and lime, chicharrones served with lime zest and tajin, or a classic Cuban sandwich. 

Time Out tip: While dinner here is worth the drive across town, brunch is really a showstopper. Each Sun, the restaurant has a pig roast, and portions of the succulent pork go quickly. Additionally, plates like shrimp avocado toast, Cuban French toast, and crab cake Benedicts all grace the menu and can be seen on most tables. 

Address: 2304 E Robinson St, Orlando, FL 32803

Opening hours: Tue-Sat 4pm–midnight; Sun 11am-10pm 

Expect to pay: Between $15 and $50 per plate

What is it? This hip spot is known for its extensive wine list that features more than 200 wines from around the world, all available by the ounce, glass, or bottle, plus its delicious food menu. 

Why we love it: Wine Bar George at Disney Springs is easily one of my favorite restaurants in Orlando. I love that there’s even cheap wine on tap, and I often get the $9 Sabine rosé. When it's time to nosh, get the Big Board, six artisanal cheeses, five artisanal meats, and accompaniments. We also love the family-style platters of skirt steak with roasted veggies or the grilled Greek sea bass that’s perfectly cooked and filleted tableside.

Time Out tip: Drop by for weekend brunch for decadent items like brioche French toast or a fried chicken biscuit with pimento cheese. The restaurant also serves an incredible lunch with steak and fries and a tasty chicken salad sandwich served with house-made chips. 

Address: 1610 E Buena Vista Dr, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830

Opening hours: Mon–Thu 11:30am-11pm; Fri 11:30am-11:30pm; Sat 10:30am–11:30pm; Sun 10:30am-11pm

Expect to pay: About $10-$80 per plate

What is it? Soseki is the pinnacle of fine Japanese dining in Orlando. 

Why we love it: This modern omakase restaurant has received a Michelin star every year since 2022. Known for its intimate dining experience—there are just 10 seats—Soseki's menu changes monthly and has seasonality at its core. It highlights Florida produce and fish. While guests are never privy to the menu before dining, they can expect classic omakase courses like piece-by-piece nigiri. Don't skip the many sakes and cocktails curated by Benjamin Coutts, Soseki's beverage director, who received the 2023 Michelin Sommelier of the Year award. Be warned that reservations are tough to come by, but it's worth the continued effort to secure one.

Time Out tip: If you can’t get a reservation for Soseki, consider heading to the restaurant’s sister concept, Bar Kada. It’s located through the lobby of Soseki and is one of the most sought-after sake lounges in the city. Besides sake, you can also order small plates like oysters with papaya mignonette, P.E.I. mussels with kimchi butter, and sake ice cream. 

Address: 955 W Fairbanks Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789 

Opening hours: Wed, Thu 5-9pm; Fri, Sat 4-10pm; Sun 4-9pm

Expect to pay: $225 per person

What is it? A hot spot for omakase-style dining.

Why we love it: Another hot spot for omakase-style dining is Kadence, which has maintained its one Michelin Star since 2022. The eight-seat restaurant is known for its omakase menu that incorporates the best ingredients from the land and sea that chef/owners Mark and Jennifer Berdin can find. I love to join the team for its Sun Funday Sushi Omakase, which is a pre-paid meal where fresh sushi and nigiri are served piece-by-piece so you can really savor each bite. While the food is remarkable, the sake menu is also a big reason to try for reservations released a month in advance. Mark and Jennifer are certified Advanced Sake Professionals through the worldwide Sake Education Council, so the pairings are impeccable. 

Time Out tip: Walk-ins are now accepted at Kadence, which makes dining here even easier. You can sit at the bar and enjoy a rotating menu of daily favorites. If this is going to be your plan while eating here, you can enjoy the experience anytime the restaurant is open. 

Address: 1809 Winter Park Rd, Orlando, FL 32803. 

Opening hours: Thu-Sat noon-3pm, 4-8pm; Sun noon-3pm

Expect to pay: Up to $305 per person 

What is it? Kaya is a Filipino restaurant that recently won a Michelin Green Star for its sustainability practices. 

Why we love it: Nestled on a side street in the Mills 50 district, Kaya is known for its set menu, where the chef creates multiple courses of modern Filipino cuisine, including dishes like sour soup served in a clay pot called Sinigang Sa Palayyok and house-made tofu with strawberry jam for dessert. While I love a set menu, I actually prefer ordering dishes a la carte at Kaya. Try the veggie-filled pancit or the shrimp and garlic fried rice for something a little more filling. If I'm feeling particularly adventurous, I always ask my server what’s new so I can try the latest creations from the chef. 

Time Out tip: If you can’t commit to a dining reservation at Kaya, they offer a walk-up list starting at 4pm every day. You can join the list online to chat with a host about seating times outside at the Bayani Bar or inside the dining room. Just know that if you sit outside, you can only order drinks and the a la carte menu. 

Address: 618 N Thornton Ave, Orlando, FL 32803. 

Opening hours: Tue-Thu 5pm-9pm; Fri, Sat 5-10pm; Sun 4-8pm

Expect to pay: $120 for the set menu and $14-$47 for a la carte plates

What is it? Orlando’s first stand-up sushi bar. 

Why we love it: Since we love Domu and Tori Tori, it’s no surprise that we love Sean Nguyen’s newest venture Edoboy. The stand-up sushi bar harkens back to the standing sushi bars that line the streets of Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, where locals and in-the-know travelers can get high-quality sushi at more reasonable prices than an omakase restaurant. The eight-person sushi bar is led by head chef Tyler Inthavongsa, who is creating some of the best single bites in town. I love that the menu is fairly straightforward, and the no-fuss self-serve station for water, cups, napkins, and chopsticks makes the unique dining experience more casual. 

Time Out tip: Reservations for the current week are released every Monday at noon. Since the restaurant has been so popular, you’ll want to set a reminder alarm to snag a coveted spot at the bar. Each reservation is for one hour, and during that time, you can try up to 12 different items from the menu. Edoboy does not take walk-ins at this time. 

Address: 728 N. Thornton Ave, Orlando, FL 32803.

Opening hours: Thu-Mon, 4-10pm

Expect to pay: $4-$13 per piece

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by may (@mxyvika)

What is it? An onigiri shop in the popular Mills50 neighborhood. 

Why we love it: The popular Japanese snack has made its way to Orlando at UniGirl. The stall inside the Mills Market, named after the owner’s dog, specializes in the filling rice-based snacks that are made with various types of proteins, wrapped with roasted seaweed, and topped with furikake. The Michelin-recognized eatery often has a line before it even opens, so getting to Mills Market early is a good idea if you want to get the best options in the place. On weekends, UniGirl is known to sell out by mid-afternoon. If you’re looking for a true taste of Japan, consider the tuna and mustard onigiri, but the fried chicken thigh option is also tasty. Even better, the shop is located adjacent to the popular Banh Mi Boy, so you can taste two of Orlando’s best spots at one time. 

Time Out tip: Besides onigiri, UniGirl has a wide range of specials throughout the week, so ask about them when you go. And if you’re looking for something sweet, if brownies are on display, you must get one. 

Address: 1110 E. Colonial Dr, Orlando, FL 32803

Opening hours: Mon, Thu, Fri 11:30am–6pm; Sat, Sun noon-6pm

Expect to pay: Under $10 per onigiri

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by TORI TORI • local japanese pub (@toritoripub)

What is it? A Japanese pub in the heart of the Mills 50 district. 

Why we love it: Tori Tori is the ideal spot for a night out in the Mills 50 district. The restaurant is a fun combination of the classic cocktail bar with the flair and food of a Japanese pub. The restaurant is known for its highball cocktails, which are served all around Japan’s izakayas. Here, you’ll find the Toki Highball, a mix of chilled toki whiskey and soda water, but the magic comes from the custom highball machine dispensing the drink, turning it into a fantastic cocktail for under $15. When you’re ready for something to eat, head up to the bar to order food, and then it will come out in waves as it’s ready. The chicken oyster yakitori is a must-get. I love how sweet and succulent the pieces of the chicken oyster are, and the charcoal cooking process does not completely diminish it. 

Time Out tip: If you loved your food, drinks, and service, consider buying the kitchen a round of drinks for them to enjoy after work. You can add this to your bill for just $20. 

Address: 720 North Mills Ave, Orlando, FL 32803 

Opening hours: Sun-Thu 5pm-1am; Fri-Sat 5pm-2am

Expect to pay: $4-$70 per plate

What is it? A modern Italian restaurant tucked away inside the Four Seasons Resort Orlando. 

Why we love it: Ravello is one of Orlando’s hot spots for Italian cuisine. It was the first restaurant in the country to receive a 100 percent score on the Italian Taste Certification, which is graded based on using products of Italian origin, having a traditional Italian menu with descriptions in both Italian and English, a wine list with mostly Italian wines, and more. Highlights of the impeccable Italian meal include the signature ravioli stuffed with veal, spinach, ricotta, mushrooms, and truffle. If you plan on splitting a few things, be sure to also get a pizza. I love the Pizza Alla Salsiccia, which is topped with mozzarella, homemade Italian sausage, pepperoni, cured ham, and basil oil.

Time Out tip: If you want to try as many of the house-made pastas as possible, sit at the restaurant’s bar, where half orders of pasta are available to order. I love going with the ravioli and the seasonal risotto that Chef Fabrizio Schenardi comes up with. No matter what you pair together, it’s going to be good. 

Address: 10100 Dream Tree Blvd, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32836

Opening hours: Breakfast, Mon-Sun 7-11am; Dinner, Mon-Sun 5:30-10pm

Expect to pay: $20-$65 per plate

What is it? A Michelin-recommended restaurant in the heart of Lake Nona. 

Why we love it: When the grills fire up at Bacán, you know you’re in for a treat. Don’t let the location inside the Lake Nona Wave Hotel fool you, this contemporary restaurant is a far cry from the boring lobby restaurants of yesteryear. The chefs at the restaurant have created a menu that highlights regions of the Americas and the Caribbean. Start your meal with one of the delightful signature cocktails, including a coconut rum-based old fashioned that’s mixed with xocolate mole bitters and burnt banana leaf. The star of the menu is the half truffle chicken, which has been on the menu for years. What makes the dish so impressive, besides the use of truffle, is that each piece of the chicken is presented differently. The thigh is turned into a roulade, while the leg is served crispy, and the breast is sous-vide. 

Time Out tip: Reservations are a must here, and the smart casual dress code is enforced. 

Address: 6100 Wave Hotel Dr, Orlando, FL 32827

Opening hours: Daily 6-10pm

Expect to pay: About $50 per person

What is it? This Spanish rooftop restaurant boasts one Michelin star.

Why we love it: Capa at the Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort is a beautiful spot for an elegant date night, a special occasion dinner, or a fancy night out with friends. The restaurant’s floor-to-ceiling windows offer sweeping views of Walt Disney World—plus two beautiful outdoor terraces to watch nighttime fireworks. Chef Malyna Si has created a menu of seasonal dishes inspired by her travels through Spain. There are shareable tapas like Pulpo a la Gallega, octopus finished with a black pepper glaze and accompanied by smoked tri-colour fingerling potatoes, and mains like Paella de Mariscos, a paella with mussels, clams, shrimp, and bay scallops. For something more substantial, try the Miyazaki Wagyu Beef Flight with A-5 grade beef with a 6-ounce American cut, a 6-ounce Australian cut, and a 3-ounce Japanese cut for $225.

Time Out tip: On Wednesday and Saturday, from 6-9 pm, a live Spanish guitarist plays in the restaurant, adding to the incredible vibe. And if you don’t want to splurge on a whole meal here, you can enjoy the lounge and bar—no reservation needed. The lounge menu features some of the same items as the larger restaurant menu, like a cheese board, marinated olives, and almond-stuffed dates. 

Address: 10100 Dream Tree Blvd, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32836 

Opening hours: Daily 5-10pm 

Expect to pay: $6-$225 per plate

What is it? The first Michelin-starred restaurant at any American theme park. 

Why we love it: As a lifelong fan of Disney, I was excited when Victoria & Albert's at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa won its first Michelin Star. I knew I was in for a treat when I was handed a zero-proof cocktail as a welcome and heard a live harpist strum iconic Disney and pop songs. The real show began, however, when plates of cauliflower panna cotta topped with caviar, seared A5 Wagyu, and stunning desserts started arriving at my table. The menu at the restaurant changes seasonally and sometimes daily, depending on what the chefs can get their hands on. So, if you do decide to go to Disney World’s crown jewel more than once, you’ll likely not have the same meal. 

Time Out tip: While you can order a glass of wine or a cocktail to accompany your meal, consider one of the wine pairings instead. The expertly curated list pairs exceptionally well with each dish on the menu, and you may be surprised by some of the options. 

Address: 4401 Floridian Way, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830

Opening hours: Tue-Sat 5:30-8:05pm

Expect to pay: Approximately $300 per guest 

What is it? The bright, fresh flavors at celebrity chef Richard Blais's eatery at the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress, Four Flamingos, is known for its citrus and seafood.

Why we love it: Dining at Four Flamingos, a 2024 Michelin Guide selection, feels like stepping back to a different era—the swaying palm trees make it feel as if time has slowed down. Each vibrant dining space, including the adorable screened-in back porch, feels right out of Key West. The menu constantly changes and is filled with seafood such as sea bass and lobster. Recent standout additions include a crab and crawfish twice-baked potato and Baked Florida, the restaurant’s take on a baked Alaska that comes with a Key lime pie center. If you're in the know (now you are, you're welcome), ask about the secret patty melt burger.

Time Out tip: Blais himself often stops by the restaurant to host dinners and meet guests. Follow the restaurant’s Instagram to find out when he’ll be around next. 

Address: 1 Grand Cypress Blvd, Orlando, FL 32836

Opening hours: Daily 5–10pm 

Expect to pay: $15-$75 per plate

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by DOMU: Award Winning Ramen • Wings • Cocktails (@domufl)

What is it? House-made noodles and creative small plates in an intimate setting. 

Why we love it: Domu is Japanese slang for “a dream come true,” and this restaurant is exactly that. Its delightful menu, filled with noodle dishes and small plates, earned a third Michelin Bib Gourmand rating this year. As for what to order? Head over for the delightful daily happy hour featuring a Wasabi Ginger Margarita with Libélula Tequila, lime, triple sec, ginger syrup, and a dash of wasabi —trust me, it's worth driving through downtown Orlando during rush hour to imbibe. You’ll also find a variety of Japanese whiskeys on the menu. For food, you can never go wrong with the Tokyo ramen with fried chicken thigh and chicken broth. 

Time Out tip: Domu does not accept reservations, and finding a seat inside the tiny restaurant can be challenging, so be sure to arrive early and be willing to wait, especially on weekends. While you wait, or as you eat, you can also buy the kitchen a round of sake or a round of beer for after work, which the hardworking cooks always appreciate. 

Address: 3201 Corrine Dr. Ste100, Orlando, FL 32803

Opening hours: Mon-Thu 5-10pm; Fri 5-11pm; Sat 11am-2:20pm, 5-11pm; Sun 11am-2:30pm, 5-10pm

Expect to pay: $10-$24 per plate

What is it? A staple restaurant in Orlando’s Winter Park neighborhood. 

Why we love it: Orlando’s Winter Park neighborhood has become the center of the culinary scene in the city, but one mainstay that's always had a queue is Prato. Each of the Italian dishes on the seasonally changing menu has a modern twist; for instance, I love the mustard spaghettini “cacio e pepe” that’s tossed with radicchio, speck, and balsamic. Larger entrees like salmon, steak, and pork chops are also available to order. Don’t skip dessert, where seasonal gelatos and decadent tiramisu grace the menu. On nice days, the restaurant opens its garage door-style front to let in the warm spring air, which can instantly transport you to Italy as you’re drinking an Aperol spritz. 

Time Out tip: Prato hosts happy hour Monday through Thursday from 4-6pm. During this time, you can get a pizza for $14, bar snacks like cacao e pepe chips for $6, and a glass of wine for $7. I love to sit outside here and enjoy an early dinner during the week sometimes. The outdoor tables are ideal for people-watching, too. 

Address: 124 N Park Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789

Opening hours: Mon, Tue 5:30-10pm; Wed, Thu 11:30am-3pm, 5:30-11pm; Fri, Sat 11:30am-3pm, 5:30-11pm; Sun 11:30am-3pm, 5:30-10pm

Expect to pay: $8-$37 per plate

What is it? A popular hangout for Indian street food. 

Why we love it: One of the most popular restaurants in the city for Indian food is Bombay Street Kitchen, a two-time recipient of Michelin's Bib Gourmand designation. Known for its Indian street food dishes, the restaurant features a menu that opens up a world of flavors and textures from the bustling cities of Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Bangalore, and beyond. There's something for everyone on the menu, but I love the dosas and pani puri for how interactive the dishes are. You also cannot go wrong with the kale chaat that’s doused in different sauces and toppings for a unique experience with every bite. When it’s time for dessert, the malai kulfi is the way to go. The traditional ice cream dessert has a lot of different textures and flavors from various toppings, and it’s unlike any other ice cream sundae I’ve ever had. 

Time Out tip: The menu can be overwhelming here, especially if it’s your first time. The servers are incredibly friendly, so ask them as many questions as you wish to ensure you’re getting all of the best dishes from the menu. 

Address: 6215 S Orange Blossom Trl, Orlando, FL 32809

Opening hours: Daily 11:30am-3pm, 5-10pm

Expect to pay: $3-$24 per plate

What is it? Pig Floyd’s Urban BBQ pairs house-smoked meats and international flavors for a truly unique concept.

Why we love it: Every time I pop into the BBQ joint, I try something different and have never been disappointed. A few favorites on the menu include the pulled pork bento box, which has compartments filled with succulent pork, jasmine rice, Cuban beans, salad, and spring rolls; the butter chicken tacos have char-grilled chicken thighs as a base and come topped with rice, tikka masala sauce, jalapeño, cilantro, and a Greek yogurt drizzle to cool everything down. 

Time Out tip: Parking for the restaurant is challenging, so try to go during off-hours. I promise the food is good no matter what time you go. Just know that some dishes, especially specials, do sell out early, so if you’ve got your heart set on something, head to Pig Floyd’s for lunch. 

Address: 1326 N Mills Ave, Orlando, FL 32803

Opening hours: Tue-Sun 11am-9pm

Expect to pay: $6-$29 per plate

What is it? Trendy Mexican food that can be paired with more than 150 agave spirits. 

Why we love it: In downtown Orlando’s North Quarter District, Reyes Mezcaleria boasts an exciting menu by Executive Chef Wendy Lopez. The entire menu is exceptional; standouts include the ceviche made with citrus-cured snapper and queso fundido. For mains, order the chicken enchiladas with salsa verde. Don't miss the craft cocktails and menu of 150 agave spirits, either. Brunch is a feast, too, with dishes like corn souffle with poblano peppers and queso Oaxaca, beef barbacoa Benedict topped with tomatillo sauce, and tres leches French toast served with poached peaches and sweet masa flan. Brunch is every weekend from 11am-3:30pm. 

Time Out tip: Reyes has a generous happy hour on weekdays from 4-7pm. A selection of cocktails are $10, while beer is $4. Pair your drink with snacks like elote, empanadas, and ancho chili wings. Plates range from $8-$12. This is one spot where you and your friends can hang for a while and just enjoy the lively atmosphere. 

Address: 821 N Orange Ave, Orlando, FL 32801 

Opening hours: Tue-Thu 11am-10pm; Fri, Sat 11am-11pm; Sun 11am-9pm

Expect to pay: $9-$50 per plate

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Sticky Rice Lao Street Food (@stickyricestreetfood)

What is it? Located near downtown, Sticky Rice Lao Street Food is the first Orlando-based quick casual restaurant specializing in Laotian street food.

Why we love it: The menu is a mix of small plates and larger noodle bowls and rice dishes. I love the flash-fried lemongrass-marinated beef jerky and pork tapioca dumplings with sweet radish, minced pork, peanuts, cilantro, and dried chilies for sharing. You also can’t go wrong with the laab rice bow,l with a choice of sautéed protein plus cilantro, scallions, shallots, mint, jasmine rice, lettuce, and cucumber. Just know that you’re encouraged to eat with your hands here. I love that because it makes the dining experience more authentic. While you’re dining, you can also learn a little bit of the Lao language thanks to some key phrases on the menu. 

Time Out tip: Do not skip dessert here. The sweet purple rice with mango is a light and refreshing dessert that won’t weigh you down on warm Florida afternoons. The pandan waffle with coconut gelato is also tasty if you want to try more than one dessert. 

Address: 1915 E Colonial Dr, Orlando, FL 32803

Opening hours: Daily 11:30am-9pm

Expect to pay: $14 and under per plate

What is it? A major culinary hot spot known for its Southern hospitality and menu of Southern classics.

Why we love it: The Pinery's menu is filled with incredible Southern favorites made with local ingredients. Part of the fun is the restaurant's oft-changing menu, which means you never quite know what you'll be served. I love the restaurant’s fried green tomatoes, which are a Southern classic, topped with charred red pepper sauce, goat cheese, and balsamic glaze. The sweet tea-brined chicken sandwich is a few perfect bites of fried chicken, hot honey, roasted garlic aioli, tomatoes, and arugula that's a divine taste of the South. To end, get the chef’s creme brûlée, which is served with candied orange zest for a fun Florida twist.

Time Out tip: The restaurant hosts happy hour every Monday through Friday from 4 to 7pm. You’ll find drinks for half off, $6 local beers, and a $9 craft cocktail of the month. Additionally, the bar bites like beef sliders, baked brie, and house-smoked fish dip are all worth ordering for a light meal. 

Address: 295 NE Ivanhoe Blvd Suite A, Orlando, FL 32804

Opening hours: Mon-Thu 4-10pm; Fri, Sat 4-11pm; Sun 11am-9pm

Expect to pay: $8-$44 per plate