Why we Love Zoes Kitchen

Photo by Shad Bookout, OpinionsVary

Welcome, Zoes Kitchen, to Orlando! The 173-restaurant chain opened its first Orlando location in Winter Springs back in November and we were lucky enough to try out their delicious Mediterranean food this week.

While everything we had was very tasty, here are our favorite dishes there:

- Basil Pesto Hummus with pita bread. 
- Red Pepper Hummus with pita bread and cucumbers. We suggest the hummus trio.
- Shrimp Kabobs: watch out - they have a kick of heat, but it's a kick I like.
- Salmon Kabobs: the salmon was tender, plus we love the peppery sauce.
- Braised white beans: I don't typically like beans. This flavorful dish with rosemary is a notable exception - we couldn't get enough!

Photo by Shad Bookout, OpinionsVary

- Rice Pilaf: Very flavorful and different from the typical sides at restaurants.
- Spinach Roll-ups: healthy and delicious.

I also heard the Greek Chicken Pita and Chicken & Orzo Soup are outstanding. We will try those on our next visit.

Where: 5930 Red Bug Lake Rd., Winter Springs, Fla. 32708

Sign up for emails, so you don't miss any Orlando restaurant and entertainment reviews!

See also:

Delicious, Authentic Fare at Greek Village

Find Excellent Mediterranean Fare in Downtown Orlando

Steak Schwarma

Guest blog by Shad Bookout

I had the pleasure of eating at Whitewood Mediterranean Grill in downtown Orlando recently for a business lunch. Even though it was after the lunch rush, the restaurant still had an air of fun about it.

Steak Flatbread

We all loved our dishes. We tried the Steak Schwarma with grape leaves and hummus, the Steak Kabob with Tabouleh and French fries and the Steak Carmelized Onion Feta and Balsamic Drizzle Flatbread. These were all very tasty dishes, that were a great value and large portions for lunch. 

Plus, the service was great. I will definitely visit this restaurant again.

Where: 1 South Orange Ave., #4, Orlando