26 Unique Places to Eat in Central Florida (the Food’s Just Half the Fun)

by Jon Miksis
Unique Restaurants in Central Florida
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Central Florida might be known for theme parks and sunshine, but the real surprises are what you’ll find on the plate…and all around it. I’ve spent a lot of time exploring this part of the state, and some of the most unforgettable meals weren’t just about the food. They were about where I was eating it.

This list features 26 of the most unique places to eat in Central Florida, where the setting is half the experience. Think retro Airstream parks serving craft tacos, jungle-themed tiki joints, farm dinners under the stars, and even a meal inside a vintage airplane. You’ll hit spots in Orlando, Winter Park, Mount Dora, Lakeland, and a few hidden gems in between. Whether you’re a local looking for something new or road tripping through the middle of the state, these restaurants bring the flavor…and the fun.

👉 Pro Tip: Discover Orlando’s tastiest spots with the Ivanhoe Village Food Tour! Sample local favorites, uncover hidden gems, and learn about the neighborhood’s history and culture. A must for food lovers!

The top restaurants to visit in Central Florida right now

Unusual & Quirky Restaurants in Central FL

Ready to uncover Central Florida’s best eateries? We’re diving into a world where every meal is an adventure, from high-end culinary delights to the most charming hidden gems. Let’s embark on a journey to find the quirkiest places to eat in Central Florida.

Ever thought about dining in a place where Halloween is celebrated all year round, or perhaps enjoying a meal in a historic home from the 1920s? Central Florida’s dining scene is as vibrant and varied as it gets. Here’s your ultimate guide to the most unique restaurants in Central Florida.

1. Nile Ethiopian Restaurant

  • 📍 Location: Orlando (International Drive Area)
  • 💲 Price range: $15 – $30 per person
  • 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Authentic Ethiopian
  • 🔥 Standout Features: Ethiopian communal dining, injera bread, flavorful vegetarian/meat stews (wots).
  • 🎯 Perfect For: Ethiopian food, communal dining, adventurous eaters, vegetarian/vegan diners, authentic African cuisine.

Embark on a delicious journey at Nile Ethiopian Restaurant! This Orlando spot offers an authentic taste of Ethiopia, where you ditch forks and scoop up flavorful stews with spongy injera bread. It’s a hands-on flavor safari!

Share large platters laden with colourful wots. The rich chicken stew doro wat is a must-try. A fantastic array of vegetarian options like gomen (collard greens) or misir wot (red lentil stew) are also excellent. The communal eating style is wonderfully social.

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Nile Ethiopian Restaurant is one of the unique restaurants in Central Florida.
Discover Nile Ethiopian Restaurant in Central Florida for award-winning flavors since 2006.

2. The Old Jailhouse Kitchen & Spirits

The Old Jailhouse Kitchen & Spirits in Sanford is easily one of the most unique dining spots in Central Florida. Set inside a restored 1914 jailhouse, this place lets you dine behind iron bars with exposed brick, adding a theatrical twist to your meal. But it’s not just the setting that makes it special…the food is legit.

The menu is full of Florida-fusion dishes made from scratch using local ingredients. Highlights include crispy fried calamari with spiced remoulade, braised pork belly with parsnip purée, and sweet potato gnocchi tossed in rich cream sauce. Their NY strip steak and Chilean salmon are also favorites. Cocktails are just as creative, like the saffron-infused Brake Fluid or spicy-sweet Witch Trials.

One tip from my visit: request a seat near the bar or inside the old cell block for the full experience. The ambiance, bold flavors, and playful jail-themed menu names make this an unforgettable night out. It’s hands-down one of Central Florida’s coolest foodie gems.

3. Babushka’s

  • 📍 Location: Temple Terrace
  • 💲 Price range: $15 – $35 per person
  • 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Russian / Eastern European
  • 🔥 Standout Features: Authentic Russian home cooking with a cozy “grandmother’s house” vibe featuring pelmeni and vareniki (dumplings).
  • 🎯 Perfect For: First-time Russian food eaters, dumpling enthusiasts (pelmeni!), Eastern European cuisine, cozy meals, and adventurous eaters.

Davai! Get a warm hug from a Russian grandmother at Babushka’s. This charming spot serves authentic, heartwarming Russian and Eastern European comfort food that’ll make you feel right at home. It’s like a hug on a plate!

Indulge in traditional delights. Tender beef stroganoff is a popular choice. Savory pelmeni (meat dumplings) or classic borscht (beet soup) are also fantastic. The cozy, knick-knack filled decor and comforting flavors make Babushka’s a delightful escape.

Experience Babushka's, where Eastern European comfort food brings a taste of home.
Experience Babushka’s, where Eastern European comfort food brings a taste of home.

4. Kadence

If you’re after an unforgettable sushi experience in Orlando, Kadence is the spot you can’t miss. This tiny nine-seat omakase joint in the Audubon Park Garden District serves up a no-menu, chef-driven sushi tasting that tastes like Tokyo landed in Florida. The vibe is intimate and a bit mysterious – black walls, minimalist decor, and sake bottles lining the shelves. Go for the sushi omakase dinner and let the chefs guide you; every piece is like edible art, but the toro is always a superstar. Heads up: you’ll need to book way in advance, and there’s no sign out front, so look sharp. Take a quick stroll around Audubon Park afterward – I always end up popping into Redlight Redlight Brewery nearby to talk about what I just ate.

5. El Ambia Cubano

  • 📍 Location: Melbourne
  • 💲 Price range: $10 – $25 per person
  • 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Authentic Cuban
  • 🔥 Standout Features: Cuban sandwiches and strong Cuban coffee.
  • 🎯 Perfect For: Fans of Latin flavors, budget-friendly eats, and coffee lovers.

¡Azúcar! Get your Cuban fix at El Ambia Cubano, a vibrant little spot serving authentic island flavors that’ll transport you straight to Havana. This is where you go for a real taste of Cuban soul in Orlando.

The star is their perfectly pressed Cubano sandwich, layered with roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard. Also dive into classic dishes like ropa vieja (shredded beef) or lechon asado (roast pork). Don’t forget a strong, sweet cafecito (Cuban coffee).

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Step into El Ambia Cubano, Melbourne's Cuban cuisine gem since 2009, nestled in downtown.
Step into El Ambia Cubano, Melbourne’s Cuban cuisine gem since 2009, nestled in downtown.

6. The Glass Knife

The Glass Knife in Winter Park is basically dessert heaven in a chic café setting. What makes it stand out? Its Art Deco-inspired decor, those decadent, Instagrammable cakes, and an all-day brunch menu. Grab a seat indoors by the floor-to-ceiling windows or catch up with friends on the airy pink patio. The signature Vanilla Bean Old Fashioned cake is a must-try, and their Cruffin (a croissant-muffin hybrid) is a local legend. Sometimes I’ll come here just for the coffee – they do pour-overs right – and the cozy yet elegant vibe makes it perfect for a casual date or a solo treat-yourself day. It’s just a short walk from Winter Park’s main strip, so you can make it a whole afternoon adventure.

7. The Edison

  • 📍 Location: Disney Springs, Walt Disney World
  • 💲 Price range: $30 – $70+ per person (Food/Drinks/Entertainment)
  • 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Upscale American Gastropub
  • 🔥 Standout Features: “Industrial Gothic” theme with live entertainment (aerialists, bands, DJs), craft cocktails, multi-level venue.
  • 🎯 Perfect For: Steampunk enthusiasts, themed dining, nightlife seekers, craft cocktails, and Disney Springs visitors.

Get ready for a jolt of electrifying entertainment at The Edison in Disney Springs! This lavish, multi-level space is a full-blown “Industrial Gothic” steampunk wonderland, complete with live entertainment that includes aerialists, bands, and DJs.

Sip on inventive craft cocktails like the signature “The Edison” or a “Tesla.” Enjoy upscale American gastropub fare such as decadent Clothesline Candied Bacon (DBA bacon). Their Edison burger or short rib are also popular. The unique atmosphere is a highlight.

Experience The Edison in Disney Springs, a captivating blend of 1920s ambiance and modern spectacle.
Experience The Edison in Disney Springs, a captivating blend of 1920s ambiance and modern spectacle.

8. Reyes Mezcaleria

Reyes Mezcaleria brings serious Oaxaca flair right into downtown Orlando. This place feels like a party, thanks to their bright tiles, jungle-y plants, and killer playlist of Latin beats. Of course, you’re here for mezcal. Order a flight so you can taste the smoky variety, and don’t miss the Queso Fundido that arrives bubbling in a skillet. Their Tacos de Pescado (beer-battered fish tacos) are my personal MVP. If you’re a fan of outdoor seating, the front patio’s covered and perfect for people-watching. Grab a drink at Mathers Social Gathering around the corner if you want to keep the good vibes rolling after dinner.

9. Mazzaro’s Italian Market

  • 📍 Location: St. Petersburg
  • 💲 Price range: $10 – $25 per person (Deli/Bakery/Prepared Foods)
  • 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Italian Market / Deli / Bakery / Cafe
  • 🔥 Standout Features: Deli sandwiches, pastries, wine, cheese/meat counters.
  • 🎯 Perfect For: Italian food lovers, deli sandwich enthusiasts, gourmet shoppers, and bakery fans.

Mamma Mia, prepare to be overwhelmed at Mazzaro’s Italian Market in St. Pete! This isn’t just a market; it’s a sprawling, bustling temple to all things Italian. It’s an experience, an aroma, a way of life!

Grab one of their legendary, enormous Italian deli sandwiches piled high with imported meats and cheeses. Their Mazzaro’s Special or a classic meatball sub are fantastic. Don’t leave without hitting the bakery for incredible cannoli or other pastries.

Mazzaro Italian Market is one of the unique restaurants in Central Florida.
For an Italian escape without the flight, Mazzaro Italian Market in St. Petersburg is unbeatable.

10. The Yardery

The Yardery in downtown Sanford is one of Central Florida’s most unique spots to eat, drink, and play. Picture a backyard come alive with string lights, lawn games, open‑air seating, and even a tire swing for selfies. It’s dog friendly, kid friendly, and perfect for groups looking to unwind in a playful, social setting.

Their menu takes backyard classics and elevates them: think a double smash Yardery Burger with cheddar, candied bacon, crispy onions and signature sauce; Pig & Pineapple or Pig & Fig flatbreads; Maryland-style crab cakes; house-smoked ribs & pulled pork; hot honey chicken, and loaded fries topped with bacon, jalapeños, and cheese.

Starters include backyard wings tossed buffalo, Old Bay or parmesan; crispy shrimp; mac & cheese; giant pretzel with local beer cheese; and sliders called Three Little Pigs. There are craft cocktails and local beers to sip under the lights, plus live music most weekends. I recommend grabbing a spot early on game night or hanging out at the cornhole or ping-pong tables. The Yardery nails casual fun, hearty food, and a memorable outdoor vibe.

11. Hollerbach’s German Restaurant

  • 📍 Location: Sanford (North of Orlando)
  • 💲 Price range: $20 – $40 per person
  • 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Authentic German / Bavarian
  • 🔥 Standout Features: Traditional German beer hall atmosphere, hearty German dishes (schnitzel, sausages, pretzels), live oompah music, attached German deli/store.
  • 🎯 Perfect For: German food and beer lovers, lively group dinners, experiencing Bavarian culture, fans of schnitzel and pretzels, and live music.

Prost! Get ready for a true taste of Germany at Hollerbach’s German Restaurant in historic downtown Sanford. This beloved spot is a full-blown celebration of Bavarian culture, from its traditional beer hall ambiance and live oompah music to its menu of hearty, authentic German fare.

You should definitely try their crispy Wiener Schnitzel or Jägerschnitzel with mushroom gravy. A platter of assorted German sausages with sauerkraut, or a giant Bavarian pretzel with beer cheese, are also fantastic. Wash it all down with a stein of German beer.

Photo credit: TripAdvisor

12. King Bao Mills

King Bao Mills has a cult following and for good reason – it’s affordable, quick, and serves the most flavor-packed buns you’ll ever have. This spot is tiny, with graffiti art on the walls and hip-hop flowing from the speakers, but the energy just works. Order the Hogzilla (pulled pork, ginger slaw, hoisin glaze) or the Firecracker Shrimp Bao – both are messy, super photogenic, and seriously addictive. The sweet potato fries with their signature dusting are another low-key star. Prices are super wallet-friendly, so don’t be shy about ordering seconds. King Bao is steps from Colonialtown’s indie shops and bubble tea spots, so you can walk off that bao binge afterward.

13. Colorado Fondue Company

  • 📍 Location: Casselberry (Orlando Area)
  • 💲 Price range: $30 – $60 per person
  • 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Fondue (Cheese & Chocolate) / Grill-Your-Own Meats
  • 🔥 Standout Features: Fondue dining, lodge decor, grill-your-own meats, chocolate fondue desserts.
  • 🎯 Perfect For: Fondue lovers, date nights, group celebrations, and dessert seekers.

Dip into delicious fun at the Colorado Fondue Company! This Casselberry spot offers a cozy, rustic lodge atmosphere perfect for enjoying the interactive joy of fondue. Get ready to swish, dip, and devour!

Start with a bubbling pot of savory cheese fondue, like the classic Alpine or a zesty Fiesta, served with bread and apples. For the main course, grill your own steak or shrimp. And absolutely save room for decadent chocolate fondue like the Flaming Turtle.

Experience fondue magic at Colorado Fondue Company, where grilling meats on a sizzling rock elevates flavors.
Experience fondue magic at Colorado Fondue Company, where grilling meats on a sizzling rock elevates flavors.

14. Toasted

Toasted is where grilled cheese lovers find their tribe. This isn’t your average melty sandwich joint – their menu is full of creative combos, vegan and gluten-free options, and serious attention to flavor. The Truffle Melt with truffle oil and arugula is game-changing, but their signature Grown Up combines cheddar, Havarti, and smoky chipotle mayo on artisan bread. Bright, playful decor and an open kitchen add to the laid-back, family-friendly feel. You’ll find local beers on tap too. I love grabbing a sandwich then heading to Lake Lily Park nearby for a picnic – the pressed sandwiches travel well, and the fries are absolute dynamite.

15. 1921 Mount Dora

  • 📍 Location: Mount Dora
  • 💲 Price range: $40 – $80+ per person
  • 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Modern Floridian / Southern Fine Dining
  • 🔥 Standout Features: Seasonal/local ingredients, ambiance linked to the Modernism Museum, chef-driven menu.
  • 🎯 Perfect For: Fine dining enthusiasts, farm-to-table lovers, art admirers, and romantic occasions.

Experience culinary artistry in Mount Dora at 1921 Mount Dora. This elegant restaurant, connected to the Modernism Museum, celebrates Florida’s bounty with a focus on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients presented with creative flair. It’s where food meets art.

Indulge in sophisticated dishes. Expect beautifully plated creations like fresh Florida Gulf seafood, such as snapper or grouper. Inventive vegetable preparations, like roasted heirloom carrots, or perfectly cooked local pork belly, also shine.

Discover 1921 Mount Dora, a hidden gem known for its historic charm and exceptional cuisine.
Discover 1921 Mount Dora, a hidden gem known for its historic charm and exceptional cuisine.

16. The Ravenous Pig

The Ravenous Pig is the kind of spot that keeps earning praise – and for good reason. As one of Winter Park’s original gastropubs, it strikes a balance between neighborhood hangout and upscale dining. You’ll find wood-paneled walls, a lively bar, and a buzzing patio out back. Locals rave about the house-made charcuterie board and truffle fries, while the short rib melt is pure comfort on a plate. Pair it all with a craft brew from their in-house brewery. On weekends, go for brunch and try the buttermilk biscuits with sausage gravy. Roll out onto Park Avenue afterward – shops and wine bars are right around the corner. The time I ordered their pork belly – I swore I’d found my new favorite.

17. Yellow Dog Eats

  • 📍 Location: Gotha (West Orange Trail area)
  • 💲 Price range: $10 – $25 per person
  • 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Eclectic American / Gourmet Sandwiches & BBQ
  • 🔥 Standout Features: Historic store, beautiful patio, gourmet sandwiches, BBQ, dog-friendly.
  • 🎯 Perfect For: Gourmet sandwich lovers, BBQ fans, dog owners, and outdoor dining.

Unleash your appetite at Yellow Dog Eats in Gotha! Housed in a historic general store, this wonderfully quirky spot is famous for its creative gourmet sandwiches, delicious BBQ, and charming garden patio. It’s dog-gone delicious!

Sink your teeth into inventive sandwiches. The “Florida Cracker” (pulled pork with blueberry BBQ sauce) is a must-try. “The What the Fig?” (turkey, fig, and brie) or their tender smoked brisket sandwich are also fantastic. The laid-back, dog-friendly atmosphere is beloved.

Yellow Dog Eats serves up fun, flavor, and quirkiness, a feast for both eyes and taste buds.
Yellow Dog Eats serves up fun, flavor, and quirkiness, a feast for both eyes and taste buds.

18. The Goblin Market Restaurant & Lounge

The Goblin Market Restaurant & Lounge in downtown Mount Dora is a storybook-meets-bistro gem. Housed in a former warehouse, it features cozy, book‑lined dining rooms, an art‑filled lounge, and a quiet courtyard…perfect for escaping the ordinary.

The eclectic menu blends global flavors with fresh Florida ingredients. Standouts include a rich crab bisque served with sherry, crispy artichoke hearts stuffed with pesto cream cheese in tempura, and the indulgent Filet Portabella – tenderloin topped with brie, puff pastry, and béarnaise.

Other dishes like Snapper St. Martin (pan-fried fish with kiwi‑banana orange sauce), Atlantic escolar with crab‑avocado Chardonnay cream sauce, and shrimp‑lobster pasta in lemon cream sauce reflect creativity and balance. Finish with standout desserts—bread pudding or crème brûlée—and pair with signature cocktails, a coffee martini, or house wine.

One tip: lunch is walk‑in only (11–3 pm). For dinner, reservations are smart. Whether you’re in the upstairs library salon or the leafy courtyard, the vibe is warm, intimate, and forever charming.

19. Jacks London Grill

  • 📍 Location: St. Petersburg
  • 💲 Price range: $15 – $30 per person
  • 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Authentic British Pub Fare
  • 🔥 Standout Features: Classic British pub ambiance, hearty pub food (fish & chips/pies!), British beers.
  • 🎯 Perfect For: Pub grub lovers, British beer fans, comfort food, and fish & chips enthusiasts.

Fancy a proper pint in America’s oldest city? Head to Jacks London Grill in St. Petersburg! This spot brings the authentic charm and hearty fare of a traditional British pub right to historic Florida. Cheerio!

Tuck into classic pub dishes. Crispy, golden fish and chips are essential. Savory shepherd’s pie, or a hearty steak and ale pie, are also fantastic choices. Wash it all down with a pint of your favorite British ale.

Discover London vibes in sunny St. Petersburg at Jacks London Grill, serving authentic British fare.
Discover London vibes in sunny St. Petersburg at Jacks London Grill, serving authentic British fare.

20. Chicken Fire

If your taste buds crave adventure, Chicken Fire is where the heat lives. This takeout-heavy spot deals in Houston-style hot chicken sandwiches slathered with just the right amount of crunch and spice. You pick your spice level – from Mellow to “Hot X-Hot” – and their signature Fire Fries are dangerously addicting. The fiery “Big Cluck” sandwich is the crowd favorite, stacked high with slaw and pickles. Inside, it’s no-frills and always busy, but the energy is infectious. I learned quickly to bring plenty of napkins. If you’re into murals and eclectic shops, it’s a short drive from the Milk District, where you can make a post-meal adventure out of your visit.

21. Domu

  • 📍 Location: Audubon Park Garden District, Orlando (also East End Market & other locations)
  • 💲 Price range: $20 – $40 per person
  • 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Ramen / Japanese Small Plates
  • 🔥 Standout Features: Famous for rich tonkotsu ramen, creative small plates (especially wings), lively atmosphere, popular and often a wait.
  • 🎯 Perfect For: Ramen connoisseurs, Asian fusion lovers, trying unique chicken wings, trendy casual dining, and flavorful small plates.

Get ready to slurp some serious ramen goodness at Domu. This incredibly popular spot is renowned for its rich and flavorful bowls of Japanese noodle soup and creative Asian-inspired small plates. It’s a vibrant and bustling eatery that always draws a crowd.

Trying their signature Domu Ramen (a rich tonkotsu broth with chashu pork) is essential. Their famous Domu Wings (crispy fried chicken wings tossed in a sweet and spicy sauce) are legendary. Other inventive small plates like pork belly buns are also fantastic.

Experience Latin fusion at Sazon Fry & Grill, where Venezuelan and Puerto Rican flavors collide for a taste of Latin America.
Experience Latin fusion at Sazon Fry & Grill, where Venezuelan and Puerto Rican flavors collide for a taste of Latin America. | Image Source: https://www.yelp.com/

22. Swine & Sons

Swine & Sons is the answer for anyone who geeks out on Southern comfort food with a twist. Tucked in Winter Park’s strip-mall scene, it’s easy to miss – but worth seeking out. Expect classic counter service, bold pig decor, and a menu that spotlights smoked meats and sandwiches. The Nashville Hot Chicken Biscuit is killer, and if the pimento cheese is on the menu, don’t skip it. They’re known for creative daily specials, and the sides – think house pickles and mac n’ cheese – are made to share. Half the fun is watching regulars pop in for their favorite. I love grabbing food here and heading to Mead Botanical Garden only five minutes away for an outdoor feast.

Photo credit: Swine & Sons https://www.swineandsons.com/

23. Cocktails & Screams

  • 📍 Location: Downtown Orlando
  • 💲 Price range: $15 – $30 per person (Mainly Drinks)
  • 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Themed Cocktail Bar / Light Bites
  • 🔥 Standout Features: Year-round Halloween/horror theme, spooky decor, themed cocktails.
  • 🎯 Perfect For: Halloween lovers (anytime!), horror movie fans, and drinkers wanting spooky sips.

Every day is Halloween at Cocktails & Screams in Downtown Orlando! This immersive bar plunges you into a delightfully dark and spooky world, with eerie decor, creepy characters, and cocktails that are to die for (figuratively speaking, of course!).

Sip on creatively named and concocted themed cocktails like “The Undertaker” or “Witches Brew.” The “Frankenstein” (a green, bubbly concoction) is also popular. They offer some light bites to go with the boos and booze. For a night out that’s thrillingly different.

Cocktails & Screams is one of the unique restaurants in Central Florida.
Experience year-round spookiness at Cocktails & Screams, Orlando’s only Halloween-themed bar.

24. Shin Jung Korean Restaurant Orlando

Shin Jung is a true hidden gem if you’re craving Korean BBQ in Orlando. It’s family-run, laid-back, and you get to grill your own meats right at the table. The walls are covered with K-pop posters and the atmosphere is lively – perfect for groups or date night with a twist. Go for the Marinated Galbi (short ribs) and the spicy tofu soup, but honestly, everything is fresh and well-seasoned. My tip: snacks like kimchi and pickled veggies come as complimentary banchan, so pace yourself. Afterward, take a stroll over to Leu Gardens if you want to keep the night going with a bit of green space and fresh air. I always leave smelling a bit like BBQ – totally worth it.

25. Black Rooster Taqueria

If you’re on the hunt for killer tacos and vibrant vibes, Black Rooster Taqueria in the Mills 50 district is a must. This place feels equal parts urban and artsy, with a big mural, polished concrete floors, and plants everywhere. They pride themselves on fresh ingredients and scratch-made everything. The Yucatan Chicken Taco and the Black Rooster Asada are flavor-packed, and the street corn is the kind of extra you’ll crave later. There are vegan options too. Grab a seat at the communal table, order a Blood Orange Margarita, and enjoy solid people-watching. It’s right in the middle of Orlando’s art district – sometimes I’ll walk over to Quantum Leap Winery after for a nightcap.

26. Santiago’s Bodega

Santiago’s Bodega is your go-to for shareable plates and a not-so-hidden sense of fun. The space feels boho and cozy, complete with stained-glass windows and mismatched chairs. It’s bustling but never stuffy – more like a lively tapas party than a formal restaurant. Favorites include their Beef Empanadas and honey-soaked Manchego Cheese, but the sangria (white or red) is on another level. Drop in with a few friends and try a little of everything. If you snag a spot on the patio, it’s the perfect place for a long, chatty brunch. Historic Ivanhoe Village is a short walk away, with cool bars and antique shops to explore afterward.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Most Unique Restaurants in Central Florida

Are you searching for more information about where to eat in Central Florida? Here are some common questions (and answers) I get asked a lot about Central Florida’s most unique restaurants.

What food is Orlando known for?

Orlando is a melting pot of flavors, but if there’s one thing you’ve got to try, it’s the seafood. Being so close to both the Gulf and the Atlantic, the city serves up some of the freshest catches around. What’s more, Orlando’s theme parks bring in a world of flavors, from butterbeer in the Wizarding World to the global tastes at Epcot’s festivals. I recommend diving into the local food truck scene for some real gems. Think gourmet tacos, fusion dishes, and, of course, Florida’s citrus-packed desserts!

What is Florida’s favorite sandwich?

Ah, the Cuban sandwich! This masterpiece layers ham, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard between freshly baked Cuban bread. Pressed to perfection, it’s a taste of Florida’s rich cultural heritage in every bite. I’d say, make your way to restaurants in Tampa or Miami, where the debate over who makes the ultimate Cuban sandwich rages on. My advice? Try them both and pick your side!

Cuban sandwich at La Segunda Central Bakery in Tampa, Florida
Cuban sandwich at La Segunda Central Bakery in Tampa, Florida

Which part of Florida has the best food?

This is like asking me to pick my favorite song – impossible! Each part of Florida brings its own flavor to the table. South Florida, with Miami’s vibrant Latin American cuisine, offers dishes that are as colorful as they are delicious. Central Florida, home to Orlando, is a theme park foodie’s dream, plus it has a burgeoning local food scene. And let’s not forget about the Gulf Coast, where seafood reigns supreme. Honestly, the best part is wherever you find yourself hungry!

What is the official state food of Florida?

While Florida doesn’t have an “official” state food, key lime pie proudly holds the title of the state pie. Originating from the Keys, this dessert is the perfect blend of sweet and tart, with a creamy filling, a crunchy graham cracker crust, and a dollop of whipped cream on top. Trust me, nothing says Florida like enjoying a slice of key lime pie under the palm trees.

The top restaurants in Central Florida for all types of travelers
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Jon Miksis

About Jon Miksis

Award-winning Travel Writer • Founder of Global Viewpoint • 70+ countries visited • 10 Million+ readers

Since 2017, I’ve traveled 3–6 months a year, sharing detailed guides that have helped over 10 million readers travel smarter, deeper, and better. My work blends firsthand experiences — from U.S. road trips and cold-plunge cabins to Michelin-starred dining and business-class flights — with honest, independent reviews.

I’ve been hired by leading tourism boards in 7 countries across Europe, North America, and South America, as well as international travel brands. My travel tips and insights have been featured in Forbes, HuffPost, Yahoo Travel, and The Boston Globe. I’ve personally reviewed 500+ hotels, retreats, and flight experiences — and I never recommend a place I wouldn’t return to myself.

I also save $5–10K per year on airfare using flight tools and 10+ travel credit cards, and I’ve invested over $100K into personal development through transformational retreats and coaching since 2021.

When I’m not road-tripping across the Northeast or writing guides for Global Viewpoint, you’ll find me cold plunging in local lakes, sipping espresso in quiet cafes in Vienna, or chasing fall foliage across New England. I split my time between exploring the world and soaking up life in Boston, my lifelong home base. Some of my favorite places I keep going back to? Switzerland, Spain, Iceland, Italy, Greece, the Faroe Islands, Guatemala, California, Montana, Vermont, and coastal Maine in autumn.

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