The Best Restaurants in Orlando

Although some may consider Orlando to be overrun with chain restaurants, there are quite a few independent eateries that offer their own distinct flavors. My boyfriend and I recently discovered the Winter Park Fish Co., a fast casual seafood restaurant with white tablecloth-caliber dishes. The chef is George Vogelbacher, who used to own Le Cordon Bleu in Winter Park. I have never had seafood cooked so perfectly. The prices are very reasonable for fine-dining seafood entrees. Try the Key West Style grouper sandwich for $15 or the Cioppino Seafood Stew for $11. 



Another largely undiscovered eatery is Mi Tomatina Paella Bar, also in Winter Park. The authentic Spanish appetizers include Patatas Bravas - roasted potatoes with truffle oil and Manchengo cheese - for $6 and Honey Lavender Shrimp – large Florida shrimp, seared in a honey lavender glaze – for $12. The main attraction – the paellas – range from one with Black Angus tenderloin, braised oxtail, and snails to the Paella Fabulosa, featuring paella rice with squid, octopus, mussels, clams, shrimp, whole lobster, and chicken.

I will be reviewing more top restaurants in Orlando, New Orleans, New York City, Los Angeles, and other major cities in the coming weeks. Let me know your favorites from around the country.