Where to eat in Downtown Orlando

Someone once compared the dining scene in Orlando as feeling like “you’ve been transplanted to Manhattan.” Here then is a list of some of the most recommended restaurants in the area.

1. The Rusty Spoon

American gastropub
55 W Church St., Orlando. Phone: (407) 401-8811

The Rusty Spoon has been a certified hit since it opened in 2011. It features mouthwatering American cuisine “with European roots.” At the helm of its farm-to-table offerings is Chef Kathleen Blake, who has earned James Beard Foundation Awards for best chef in 2013 and 2015. Diners can also expect great ambience and service that never disappoints. Call in advance to reserve. The Rusty Spoon is conveniently found right on Church Street.

2. Artisan’s Table

Creative American seasonal fare, coffee bar, craft cocktails
22 E Pine St., Orlando. Phone: (407) 730-7499

Getting a latte along with a hearty breakfast (or brunch) at the Artisan’s Table is the best way to start the day at Artisan’s Table. The restaurant has a creative menu that changes daily, depending on both available and seasonal ingredients. It also serves mouthwatering vegan and gluten-free meals. There are separate menus for breakfast, lunch, brunch, dinner, dessert, signature cocktails, beer, wine, coffee, and catering. If that’s not enough, the restaurant’s Happy Hour lasts all day every day. Head to Pine Street between Orange, and Magnolia Avenues.

3. Kasa Tapas & Raw Bar

Tapas &small plates, American, seafood
183 S Orange Ave. Ste 183, Orlando. Phone: (407) 985-5272

The multi-award-winning restaurant will have you exploring the world through your taste buds. There are separate menus for lunch, dinner, and midday fare. All-time favorites include the Adobo Pork, Pad Thai Calamari, Crispy Potentate Cakes, and more. Weekly events like Tasting Tuesday, Unwine’d Wednesday, Ladies Night Thursday, CHEERS TO THE WEEKEND! And Bubbles N’ Brunch Sunday are more reasons for guests to keep coming back.

4. Citrus

Regionally inspired new American cuisine
821 N. Orange Ave., Orlando. Phone (407) 373-0622

This multi-awarded foodie place has been cited by Orlando Magazine for having the Best Power Lunch and was voted the best Downtown Restaurant by readers of the same magazine, among a laundry list of recognitions. The name itself is an homage to the heritage of Florida and reinterprets Southern flavors for dishes that are fresh and local. Diners often cite the black bean soup and the agave lime mussels as among the best starters, while the pan seared Florida barrel fish with smoked creamed corn, charred kale and citrus-stewed carrots has been described as “clean your plate” good. It’s got outside seating and is a “great place to be seen,” if that’s something that matters to you.

5. KrungThep Tea Time

Thai, sandwiches, tea
1051 W. Fairbanks Ave., Winter Park. Phone: (407) 733-3561

This is located in the outskirts – but definitely worth the 15-minute drive from Downtown. It has reinvented the bright and rich flavors of Thai cuisine to great success. Items to try include the Gra-Pow Chicken turned into a sandwich, their take on Tomyum Goong, and the many instances of “Brick Toast.”

This list barely grazes Orlando’s amazing restaurant scene but it hopes to inspire you to discover the city’s many gastronomic delights. With over 250 incredible restaurants in Downtown Orlando alone, a culinary tour yields tasty rewards. Happy eating!

If you want to learn about the real estate options in and around Downtown Orlando, call (407) 540-7040.