CHICAGO — The Clean Show will occupy the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida, on August 23-26, and that’s good news for those who like to take advantage of the local food scene while traveling.
Named one of the top “foodie” cities in the United States by WalletHub.com, Orlando has no lack of options when it comes to fine dining or filling up an empty stomach for the next adventure.
In Part 1 of this series, we looked at ways to get around the city and some of its colorful neighborhoods. In Part 2, we examined what the region is perhaps best known for — theme parks — along with some lesser-known attractions that are easy on the wallet.
Today, we’ll conclude by looking at the culinary options available to Clean Show attendees away from the event. From Michelin-starred restaurants to a vibrant food-truck scene, the city offers something for every appetite.
Michelin Stars
The Michelin Guide awards stars to restaurants based on rigorous evaluations, and the two newest Michelin Star restaurants in Orlando are:
Sorekara (Japanese cuisine, two Michelin Stars) — “In a world of uniformity, Sorekara proudly forges its own path,” reads the Michelin Inspector notes. “Chef/owner William Shen’s tasting menu highlights Japan’s 72 micro seasons with highly original dishes infused with a sense of whimsy.”
Ômo by Jônt (Contemporary cuisine, one Michelin Star) — “Chef Ryan Ratino’s lauded D.C. restaurant, Jônt, is more than just the inspiration for this offshoot,” says the Michelin Inspector. “The space allows for discrete moments at each meal, while three tasting menus run the gamut from tightly edited and more affordable to loaded with luxury ingredients.”
Other Michelin Starred restaurants in or near Orlando include Kaya (Mills 50 district), Knife & Spoon (Grande Lakes), Soseki Modern Omakase (Winter Park), Capa Steakhouse & Bar (Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort), Camille (Baldwin Park), Kadence (Audubon Park Garden District), Natsu (North Quarter District), Papa Llama (Curry Ford West) and Victoria & Albert’s (Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa).
With these and other restaurants, it’s often best to get reservations well in advance, as seating can be limited and may fill up weeks ahead.
City Views
AC Sky Bar, an 18th-floor rooftop bar inside the AC Hotel by Marriott Orlando Downtown, offers spectacular views of downtown, along with a full range of handcrafted cocktails featuring locally made spirits, and chef-made tapas and small plates.
Eleven, at the Reunion Resort & Golf Club, is a rooftop restaurant offering a variety of small plates and craft cocktails with panoramic views of Orlando, accompanied by live entertainment nightly.
Waterside
The Boathouse and Paddlefish are located at Disney Springs, offering a view of the water with fresh catches and other fare.
Russell’s on Lake Ivanhoe offers an upscale casual dining experience with a view of the historic lake in downtown Orlando.
Themed
The Edison, located at Disney Springs, is designed to look like a 1920s electric company/speakeasy, and offers classic American cuisine, craft cocktails and unique entertainment with several themed areas.
Food Markets
Boxi Park in Lake Nona offers food-truck-style options along with live entertainment. Some choices available at the 30,000-square-foot outdoor location include Fowl Play (chicken), Claw & Order (seafood), Canonita Street Taqueria (tacos and more), Before it Melts (ice cream), Hops and Vine (beer, wine and cocktails) and The Grill Next Door (burgers).
East End Market in the Audubon Park Garden District of Orlando hosts 11 independently owned businesses offering breakfast, lunch and dinner options; locally roasted coffee; dessert cakes and cookies; organic juices; raw food specialties; artisan cheeses; and more. It also has retail shops and markets.
Plant Street Market is an indoor artisan market located in downtown Winter Garden that brings together 20 vendors offering natural, organic food and handmade products under one roof, anchored by the award-winning Crooked Can Brewing Company. This destination features diverse food options ranging from sushi and tacos to BBQ and empanadas, plus specialty vendors offering everything from loose-leaf teas and handmade chocolates to gourmet popcorn and artisan cheeses.
For Part 1 of this Guide, click HERE. For Part 2, click HERE.
Have a question or comment? E-mail our editor Dave Davis at [email protected].
