ORLANDO WEEKLY’ORLANDO WEEKLY’S DINING GUIDES DINING GUIDE 20112011

More than More than 500 reviews by 500 reviews by Orlando WeeklyOrlando Weekly

critics inside!critics inside!Your essential guide Your essential guide

to Central Florida’s to Central Florida’s best restaurantsbest restaurants

Gourmet adventure,Gourmet adventure, hangover cure,hangover cure, or merely an excuse to eat or merely an excuse to eat two meals at one sitting, two meals at one sitting, Orlando brunches go Orlando brunches go beyond the Benedictbeyond the BenedictBy Holly Kapherr and Jessica Bryce Young

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- 2 -6001 Destination Parkway, Orlando, Florida | TheHiltonOrlando.com | 407.313.4300

Located at Located at

This new American steakhouse redefi nes the classics.We serve Spencer’s Prime Cut steaks, fresh local

seafood and organic produce, over twenty wines by the glass, and cocktails made from scratch.

This elevated sports pub experience offers a high energy environment, serving local and craft beers,

eclectic wines by the glass, and a fresh and creative menu. Pool tables, LCD televisions, and great seating

make this a unique setting for special gatherings among Orlando bars. Private Dining Room

Available for private parties from 8 to 12 people.

For reservations call: 407-313-8625 For reservations call: 407-313-8581

HIL7833-Spenc-DaveAdBiteMagv2.indd 1 3/25/11 3:10 PM

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PUBLISHER Rick Schreiber EDITOR Erin SullivanEDITORIAL Jessica Bryce Young, food & drink editor; Shan Stumpf, art director Holly Kapherr, writer; Katie Westfall, copy editor Justin Hacker, web administrator, IT supportCaitlin McGill, Valeri Walsh, interns RETAIL ADVERTISING Graham Jarrett, directorElizabeth Deese, Jonathan Risteen, Shelly Vincent, Dan Winkler, account executivesJon Bowers, Half Off Depot sales; Hollie Ann Mahadeo, coordinatorPRODUCTION Rick Andrews, production supervisor Sabrina Arbona, graphic designerBUSINESS Karen Waeiss, manager; Amanda Self, administrative assistantCIRCULATION Pierre Rene, manager

ORLANDO WEEKLY INC. (407) 377-0400, (407) 377-0415 classified, (407) 377-0420 fax • orlandoweekly.com

BITE 2011Orlando Weekly’s annual dining guide

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Kissimmee

Orlando

Winter Park

Oviedo

AltamonteSprings

Sanford

Mount Dora

Winter Garden

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DOWNTOWNOWNTOWN

NORTHORTH

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Lake Buena Vista

HOW TO USE THE DINING GUIDE

LISTINGS are con-densed from lengthier reviews previously published in Orlando Weekly. Find complete reviews online at orlandoweekly.com, where our database of restaurants can be searched by cuisine and location.

THE PRICE RANGES give an idea how deep you’ll have to reach into your pocket. They generally refl ect the average cost of one dinner entree. In the case of ice cream shops, wine bars and the like, we made a judgment call.

CENTRAL FLORIDA is broken down into nine regions using ZIP code areas as a point of reference. At the beginning of each re-gion is a map and list of the ZIP codes that defi ne that region.

$10 or lower

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$15-$25

$25 or higher

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Copyright © 2011 Orlando Weekly Inc., all rights reserved. Orlando Weekly Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. Unsolicited manuscripts must be accompanied by an SASE. Free, one copy per reader. Orlando Weekly may be distributed only by its distributors.

DIG IN. The restaurants are organized by neighborhood, so you can plan your night – are you looking for something close to home? Close to the movie theater? Close to the monster-truck rally? Below you’ll find a map illustrating our regional distinctions, a guide to our price levels and other indispensable information, as well as a list of the people who made the whole thing possible.

BITE

Join Our Nightly Celebration of Food,

Wine & Memorable Times

Prime Steak & 100 Wines by the Glass

Fleming’s features the finest prime steaks and an award-winning list of 100 wines by the glass.

Join us for an evening with family & friends in our lively, relaxed atmosphere.

8030 Via Dellagio Way, Orlando407-352-5706

www.FlemingsSteakhouse.com/Orlando

933 North Orlando Ave, Winter Park407-699-WINE (9463)

www.FlemingsSteakhouse.com/WinterPark

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- 6 -CHARMOULA — Big Wheel Provisions

GOURMET ADVENTURE, HANGOVER CURE, OR MERELY AN EXCUSE TO EAT TWO MEALS AT ONE SITTING, ORLANDO BRUNCHES GO BEYOND THE BENEDICT

By Holly Kapherr and Jessica Bryce Young

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There are a few kinds of people who seek out brunch: those desperate for a full stomach aft er a night of intense merry-making, those in search of the

next great taste, those who brunch to see and be seen – and gluttons. Brunch, aft er all, allows one to consume the calories allotted for both breakfast and lunch, and add daylight-hours drinking to boot.

It’s not completely clear who fi rst printed the term – some credit the British magazine Hunter’s Monthly for coining it in the late 1800s, while others attribute it to New York Morning Sun newspaperman Frank Ward O’Malley’s description of journalists’ typical early-midday eating habits. Wherever it came from, brunch has evolved into a loose and lazy weekend aff air featuring a well-loved canon of comestibles: Eggs Benedict, omelets, mimosas and most of all the Bloody Mary, venerated for its hair-of-the-dog powers, are the classic signifi ers of the morning-aft er meal. Th ough creative chefs endeavor to replicate, refi ne or re-master those classics completely, most restaurants know not to step too far out of bounds at the risk of alienating customers. Still, just about any weekend meal before 5 p.m., if served with a bloody or a mimosa, can squeak into brunch territory.

Orlando’s brunch scene off ers a wide spectrum of brunch atmospheres, from casual and homey to ornate and ceremonial. Highlighted here are a few restaurants that make mimosa madness an integral part of your weekend.

CASUAL, CREATIVEChristo’s Café Th e place just got a

facelift , but the food is still the same reliable quality (tending toward the weighty) with fi rst-name service from attentive servers. Rotating specials include crispy-fried corned beef hash, best ordered with sweet potato fries and an over-easy egg on top. Weekends are packed, but with the new patio attached, there’s more seating for those seeking a hangover healing. (1815 Edgewater Drive, 407-425-8136; $)

Dexter’s of Thornton Park Dexter’s is one of those places to sit outside, tie up your schnauzer, order a fl uff y customized omelet or a smoked turkey eggs Benedict on French baguette drizzled with honey mustard hollandaise, and people-watch and be watched. Presentation matters, so run a comb through that hair before you hit the sidewalk. Th e

ambitious brunch menu is reasonably priced, and their homemade Bloody Mary has fi erce devotees – some call it the best in town. (808 E. Washington St., 407-648-2777; $$)

Virgin Olive Market Saturday brunch at the Orange Avenue storefront sandwiched between spiffi er neighbors Citrus and Shin Sushi off ers riff s on common brunch classics – your basic BLTs, Benedicts, Bellinis and breakfast burritos – plus a few more out-there options, like the Frit-Tot-a (baked eggs and cheese on a tater-tot crust) and the PB & Pickles sandwich, peanut butter and sweet-hot pickles layered on cinnamon toast. (807 N. Orange Ave., 407-601-7848; $)

LET THEM ENTERTAIN YOU

Bananas Modern American Diner Th ere’s nothing quite like wolfi ng down one of fi ve variations on eggs Benedict while a bedazzled drag queen sings sweet nothings into the straight boys’ ears. Here, a $7 hand-spun peanut butter-and-jelly milkshake serves as a centerpiece for a meal of delightful excess and sparkly eye makeup. Sunday morning’s Gospel Brunch is sided with raunch and hilarity; bring along your favorite millionaire for the “Millionaire’s Breakfast” ($199), which includes an 8-ounce New York strip, three eggs, home fries and – why not – a bottle of Dom Perignon. Make reservations; this place is a hotspot. (924 N. Mills Ave., 407-480-2200; $$)

Best of British Pub Check the Premier League schedule before you head down to the popular footie-watching pub on I-Drive – if you’re lucky you’ll get to see a beating like the one Man City dished out to Sunderland recently. (Five-nil! Blues!) If not, there’s still a fry-up fi t for royalty: eggs, back bacon, pork sausage, fried bread, grilled tomato, mushrooms, hash browns, Heinz baked beans and toast. Good luck putting all that away without feeling like you just swallowed Winston Churchill. (8324 International Drive, 407-264-9189; $$)

House of Blues Gospel Brunch It’s loud in there, for sure. Th e buff et lines are long, but the music is fantastic. House of Blues is known for its interactive gospel brunch; brunchers play call and response with some of the best gospel acts in the country. Off erings span the globe from ricotta-fi lled tortellini and prime rib to Southern fried chicken and shrimp jambalaya to smoked salmon and a decadent banana bread pudding. Seatings are scheduled every half-hour. (Downtown Disney West Side, Lake Buena Vista, 407-934-2583; $$)

SUNDAY BESTThe Boheme Sunday Jazz Brunch at

the Grand Bohemian Hotel is an exercise in elegance for those who can’t bear the thought of not being able to personally watch their omelet fall from the pan with a deft turn of the

sous-chef ’s wrist. Pianists plink in the Klimt Rotunda, champagne fl ows freely and the sheer decadence of the event is well worth the steep price ($40, but hey, that includes mimosas and parking). (325 S. Orange Ave., 407-313-9000; $$$$)

La Coquina Sunday brunch at the Hyatt Grand Cypress’ signature restaurant is generally acknowledged as Orlando’s ultimate brunch experience. Th e sleepy, Gatsby-in-Florida atmosphere is bolstered by the light-fi lled room, the picturesque landscaped grounds visible through fl oor-to-ceiling windows and the aged pianist playing show tunes and classic TV theme songs on a white baby grand. Patrons are ushered into the kitchen (yes, the kitchen) to fi ll plates with more than 40 diff erent dishes from around the world; from sushi to sausage to smoky rack of lamb, the off erings are exquisite. Four kinds of caviar greet guests at the entrance, a fully outfi tted raw bar is tucked away in a corner and the selection of 15 Old and New World cheeses would send any foodie’s head spinning. Saving room for dessert is almost impossible but highly recommended, as the pastry chefs impress with a bravura display of truffl es and mini-desserts. (1 Grand Cypress Blvd., Hyatt Regency Grand, 407-239-1234; $$$$)

Th ere are plenty of Orlando eateries willing to help you get your morning buzz on – or, if you’re feeling abstemious, there are even a few that will help you get your healthy on. Visit the Salivation Army blog at blogs.orlandoweekly.com for our “Holy Hollandaise!” list, an expanded selection of not-to-be-missed O-town brunch spots, and contribute your own suggestions. ●

If served with a

mimosa, any weekend

meal can be called

brunch

Photo by Jason Greene

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BITE

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DOWNTOWN310 LAKESIDE 310 Park South’s sister restaurant eschews the trendy, people-watching scene for a more understated, leisure pace. Well-executed dishes like pan-seared snapper with a magnificent fennel and olive tapenade garnish and beef tenderloin flatbread are as much a draw as the large outdoor patio. Burgers can be a letdown, but desserts are revelatory. 301 E. Pine St., 407-373-0310. $$$. American, Café/Bistro.★ AMURA SUSHI BAR & JAPANESE RESTAURANT A much-awaited renovation gives an updated look and feel to this downtown establishment hidden away on Church Street. Blissfully undiminished is the quality of the food – seaweed salad that crunches just right and sushi so fresh it needs no adornment (though the elaborate rolls are delicious). 54 W. Church St., Suite 170, 407-316-8500. $$$. Japanese/Sushi.ANTHONY’S PIZZA CAFÉ Located in his-toric Thornton Park in a former car-repair shop that’s been washed with bronze colors and a Tuscan atmosphere, the café’s two dozen tables – inside and on the courtyard – are a comfort-able spot to enjoy traditional Italian subs, pizzas and pasta entrees. 100 N. Summerlin Ave., 407-648-0009. $$. Italian, Pizza.BENTO CAFÉ Sushi and noodles are all the rage at this cool lunch spot. Handsomely pre-sented torch rolls with conch, scallops, salmon, tuna and sriracha are luscious, while spicy red tobiko proffer a proper pop. Bento boxes run the gamut and a bonanza of boba awaits tea-totalers. 151 S. Orange Ave., 407-999-8989. $$ Pan-Asian.CAFÉ ANNIE The musician standing on the stage in a white blazer with an electric keyboard and a hand-held microphone is part of an eclec-tic Middle Eastern folk binge Saturday nights at Café Annie. This is the only evening that Annie is open. 131 N. Orange Ave., 407-420-4041. $. Greek, Lebanese, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern.CAFFE RITAZZA An international chain that

offers efficient service, a vast menu of every-thing from Mexican fare to salad bar to baked goods and free Internet access. It’s only open Monday through Friday, and it’s very popular with the business-casual set. 200 S. Orange Ave., 407-237-6780. $. Deli/Sandwiches.CEVICHE TAPAS BAR AND RESTAURANT The seductive interior alone makes this Church Street joint worth visiting, though the whopping selection of small plates is what keeps patrons coming back. Refreshing ceviche de atun segues nicely into Iberico ham; creamy tres leches meringue cake with fresh berries is as savory as it is siesta-inducing. 125 W. Church St., 321-281-8140. $$. Tapas.CHAMP’S DELI A phone-booth-sized estab-lishment with Chef George serving his famous pulled-pork sandwiches. The cold-cut selection is pretty ordinary, but where else can you get a decent chicken-salad sandwich and a cup of soup for $3.95, or a hot breakfast sammich for a buck-fifty? 132 E. Central Blvd., 407-649-1230. $. Deli/Sandwiches.CUBA DE CUBA BISTRO Brand new Cuban bistro offering authentic, fresh food. Have a favorite dish your Cuban grandma used to make? You can probably find it on the menu here. 63 N. Orange Ave., 407-809-5388. $$. Cuban.DEXTER’S OF THORNTON PARK Spacious, light and airy, with seating at the bar or on bar stools at elevated tables. Sandwiches and pastas are staples, but you’ll also find the citified clientele ordering wines both by the bottle and by the glass. 808 E. Washington St., 407-648-2777. $$. American, Café/Bistro, Hamburgers, Wine.

EMBER BAR & RESTAURANT With an indoor and outdoor bar, Ember has eaten the remains of Kate O’Briens and turned it into a fashionable adult hangout with a Mediterranean piazza theme. The oh-so-sexy bar staff serves up reasonably priced drinks, which is surprising given the expensive look of the place. Ember also has a chic menu serving bar food with an upscale twist. Soups, salads and entrees are available, although not many people seem to take advantage of the kitchen late at night. 42 W. Central Blvd., 407-849-5200. $

★ EOLA WINE COMPANY A true and very welcome wine bar that offers its wares by the glass or in 2-ounce sampler flights. If something grabs your fancy, racks of bottles line the walls. Eola Wine hops until 2 a.m. most nights, with a menu of grapes and brews that changes, along with desserts. 500 E. Central Blvd., 407-481-9100. $$. Sweets, Wine.FISH ’N’ LOAVES This eatery, in the spot that was formerly home to Johnson’s Diner, is as soulful a soul food restaurant as you’ll find. Portions won’t allow for gluttony, but that doesn’t mean you won’t indulge in fried chicke just like mom used to make. Fish is a staple – mild catfish serves as a counterpoint to full-flavored whiting – and desserts are homemade. Closed Sundays. 595 W. Church St., 407-423-0800. $. American, Barbecue, Diner, Southern.GINO’S PIZZA & BREW III Small but full of action, and open from 10 a.m.-4 a.m., Gino’s is a downtown stage for pizza-making perfor-mance art. Nearly a dozen choices of pizza are on display at any given time, plus strombolis, calzones, wings, salads and pasta dishes. 120 S. Orange Ave., 407-999-7827. $. Italian, Pizza.GRAFFITI JUNKTION Prodigious patties for the post-grad set seems to be Graffiti Junktion’s

function; the crowd is young and the digs run to squatter-chic embellishments. Skip the salad and chili and head straight for the beefed-up burgers, served on homemade buns. A full bar keeps the scene lively and the din uproarious. 900 E. Washington St., 407-426-9503. $$. American, Hamburgers.GUAVATE Puerto Rican bistro serves an extensive menu of traditional fare, including more than 20 varieties of mofongo. Churrasco mofongo proved especially intriguing, with tender morsels of chimichurri-basted skirt steak blended into a heap of green plantains flavored with garlic and crispy pork skin. Spicy pork tripe mondongo caters to adventurous and/or hun-gover slurpers. 422 S. Alafaya Trail, 407-281-4700. $$$. Latin American, Puerto Rican.HAMBURGER MARY’S While diversity is key at this gay-friendly burger joint, the menu is unquestionably all-American. Hefty, gloppy burgers satisfy, as do triangles of addictive fried mac-and-cheese, and meatloaf is a must. Desserts like fried Twinkies and Mary Tyler S’mores will test your ticker. 110 W. Church St., Unit H, 321-319-0600. $$. American.HUE It’s hip, it’s as urban as Orlando gets and it’s in Thornton Park Central, where the black-clad and hungry gather. Fortunately, the lure of good food can appeal to anyone, and Hue is serving up fabulous seafood, steaks and poultry with a soupcon of Asian flair. 629 E. Central Blvd., 407-849-1800. $$$. American, Café/Bistro.ICHIBAN Serving since 1988, elegant Ichiban still requires reservations on weekends. The clamor is for its skillfully prepared selection of sushi, from cliched California rolls to artful delicacies like dancing eel. They may not break culinary ground, but it’s good food, served with

GO AHEAD, TAKE A BITE. Once again we’ve compiled a guide to restaurants in the Orlando area – more than 500 of them, from old favorites to new contenders, from high-ticket splurges to greasy spoons and everything in between. If you can’t fi nd what you’re looking for in this year’s BITE, browse our blog, Salivation Army, and don’t miss our weekly reviews. Read ’em and eat.

ALSO● Restaurant with names IN PURPLE are BITE advertisers.● Restaurants noted with a ★ are 2010 Best of Orlando winners. ● City is Orlando unless otherwise noted. ● Information was updated at press time, but may have changed.● Price guide refl ects the average cost of an entree.

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PRICE GUIDE

SPOOKY’S

BLACK CAT

CAFÉ

Photos by Jason Greene

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attention and a sense of fun. 19 S. Orange Ave., 407-423-2688. $$. Japanese/Sushi.JAVA LAVA To complement their inexpensive fare, Java Lava offers $5 domestic and $6 import beer. Pricy, but visitors to the upscale deli who absolutely need a midafternoon brew-ha-ha will likely pay it. Doors close at 3 p.m., whereupon $18 of Peroni will be sweated out in as many paces. 47 E. Robinson St., 407-770-1888. $$. Deli/Sandwiches.KRES CHOPHOUSE Most of the food is out-standing, but inconsistency plagues the kitchen of this sumptuous yet cozy space; the ambience alone makes this downtown destination worth a second try. Menu standouts include the shellfish bisque and the mixed grill. 17 W. Church St., 407-447-7950. $$$$. American, Steak.METRO ESPRESSO PIZZA CAFÉ Trusty takeout joint on the ground floor of the Post Parkside building takes care of its Eola Heights neighbors with pizza and meatball subs, as well as the owner’s memorable lasagna and pasta dishes. 417 E. Central Blvd., 407-422-5282. $. Italian, Pizza.MOCHI FROZEN YOGURT The three posted steps at Mochi’s sparkling spot in the Plaza building are pleasantly uncontrived: Pick your yogurt flavor, put toppings on it, then weigh and pay. Newbies should take it easy on the self-serve – it’s not hard to go overboard. Mochi pat-ties are available for those looking for something different. 145 S. Orange Ave., 407-425-9797. $. Sweets.★ MUCHO TEQUILA AND TACOS An urban mix of diners partakes in the first-rate Tex-Mex fare: The standard tacos, burritos, chimis and fajitas all pass muster. Finish the trio of deep-fried habañeros injected with Dead Heat hot sauce for good measure, and you get a T-shirt. Thankfully,101 agave-based palliatives (read: tequila) lie in wait. 101 S. Eola Drive, 407-843-9676. $$. Mexican, Tex-Mex.NAPASORN THAI RESTAURANT In the heart of downtown Orlando on bar-laden Pine Street, a welcome oasis of sake and Thai food. With a few wanders away from traditional cook-ing and the addition of a sushi bar, they still manage to serve up dishes prepared with care and enthusiasm. A most enjoyable destination. 56 E. Pine St., 407-245-8088. $$. Japanese/Sushi, Thai.OMEGA DELI A popular spot with the down-town workday crowd, this deli serves all manner of sandwiches, salads, paninis and soups, as well as breakfast. 315 E. Robinson St. Suite 155, (407) 841-6674. $. Deli/Sandwiches.ORLANDO TASTINGS Enomatic tasting machines are a draw for cost-conscious wine enthusiasts in search of variety, and this down-town wine bar offers an unpretentious environ-ment in which to enjoy them. Seventy-two wines are offered, each available in tasting, half-glass and full-glass pours. The kitchen churns out a

proficient mix of light bistro fare, including filet mignon medallions, flatbreads and a DIY cheese plate. To end, pair triple mousse cake with a merlot. 111 E. Washington St., Suite 175, 407-999-9950. $$. Wine, Café/Bistro.PANERA BREAD If sandwiches, soups, sal-ads and baked goods are what you’re craving, this chain bistro has you covered. Menu items include paninis, chopped salads, soups and a handful of “signature” entrees like steak chili with cornbread. 227 North Eola Dr., #A, 407-481-1060. Café/Bistro. PANINO’S PIZZA AND GRILL Open until 5 a.m., Panino’s is one of the few choices in Orlando for late-late-night grub, a perk for a city with night life but little to no night food. With more than 14 by-the-slice variations and many others available in whole-pie form, there’s a pizza for every preference; wings are gloriously hot, slightly crispy, garlicky and doused with hot sauce. 21 S. Orange Ave., 407-999-7701. $. Pizza.PARADISE ISLAND CAFÉ Lunch is always busy at this little Caribbean eatery with popular entrees including boneless jerk chicken and beefy oxtails, simmered in Jamaican herbs and spices. First Fridays feature a band in addition to all the West Indian delicacies to be found here. 377 W. Church St., 407-841-8933. $. Caribbean.PHILLY STYLE HOAGIES AND DELI Sandwich shop that brings Philly-style fresh-baked bread and tasty Thumann’s deli meats to the downtown lunch crowd, along with some unusual alternatives. Sandwiches come in three sizes, including a monster two-footer. 223 N. Magnolia Ave., 407-423-0123. $. Deli/Sandwiches.PINE TWENTY2 Humanely handled, grass-fed, hormone- and antibiotic-free meats serve as a base for this downtown eatery’s gourmet burgers. A host of cheeses, sauces and premium toppings present more than 300,000 burger pos-sibilities. Don’t overlook fried pickle chips, onion rings and, at meal’s end, house-made fried pies. Gluten-free options available. 22 E. Pine St., 407-625-6045. $. Hamburgers.RELAX GRILL Nestled along the shores of Lake Eola sits one of the better al fresco din-ing locales in the city. The courtyard provides enough shade for enjoying Mediterranean and domestic fare, particularly the former – chicken kebabs and a Mediterranean combo comprising falafel, red pepper nut dip and five other items fare better than the burger. Leisured service allows for people- and animal-watching. 211 Eola Parkway, 407-425-8440. $$. American, Mediterranean.SAUCED ON WALL STREET This new addi-tion to Wall Street Plaza features all manner of sloppy good barbecue delights, perfect for satisfying your after-party appetite. Who doesn’t feel like a hot mess (beef brisket sandwich topped with mac-n-cheese) or a wet dog (hot

BANANAS:

A MODERN

AMERICAN

DINER

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BITE

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dog wrapped in bacon, topped with beans and slaw) after a night out downtown? 11 Wall St., 407-423-5388. $. Barbecue.SHARI SUSHI LOUNGE Hip and happen-ing Thornton Park adds an Eastern flavor with this cosmopolitan pearl. Superbly inventive sushi rolls alongside traditional dishes means something for everyone, but be daring. You’ll like it. 621 E. Central Blvd., 407-420-9420. $$$. Japanese/Sushi.SHIN JAPANESE CUISINE Selections at this urbane sushi house reflect a commitment to sourcing and artistry without belying tradition. Any of the chef’s presentations offer a rewarding sampling for those who enjoy their sushi rela-tively unadulterated, while a number of signature and maki rolls are also offered. Beef tataki is wonderful to the last raw slice. 803 N. Orange Ave., 407-648-8000. $$$. Japanese/Sushi.STONEWALL BAR ORLANDO While Stonewall Bistro’s drab edifice is reminiscent of a gun shop, the inside suggests a laid-back neighborhood bar. Try Rob’s fabulous roast beef on rye‚ a satisfactory sandwich jacked with horseradish and chive havarti, and don’t miss the cheesecake made by Winter Garden’s Sweet Guys when it’s available. 741 W. Church St., 407-373-0888. $. Café/Bistro.SUSHI HATSU Sushi is as common these days as Chinese takeout, and this run-down downtown spot demonstrates a proletarian approach to this once-luxury cuisine. Skip the starters and head for the small menu of fresh sushi. 24 E. Washington St., 407-422-1551. $. Japanese/Sushi.THE BOHEME Opulent surroundings designed as an interpretation of Europe’s Bohemian gran-deur, with a menu featuring Angus beef in sev-eral incarnations, seafood and some wonderfully executed entrees. The pricey menu changes with the season. 325 S. Orange Ave., 407-313-9000. $$$$. Continental, Seafood, Steak.THE DESSERT LADY Patti Schmidt, the Dessert Lady‚ serves up seriously seductive sweets, wines and decadent coffee drinks. Buttercream-frosted carrot cake with rum-soaked raisins on the side is a standout among the addictive offerings. 120 W. Church St., 407-999-5696. $. Bakery, Coffee/Tea, Sweets, Wine.THE GLOBE A small but interesting selection of international beers and a long martini list make the Globe easy on the palate. The bar is done in lots of old brick and wood for a homey feel. 27 Wall Street Plaza, 407-849-9904. $$. American, Café/Bistro, Japanese/Sushi.THE HARP Downtown gastropub oozes a rustic charm and class; Cordon Bleu chef Cody Patterson shines with such dishes as luscious rack of lamb with saffron risotto and stoplight prawns, served with a trio of red, yellow and green sauces. 25 S. Magnolia Ave., 407-481-2928. $$. Café/Bistro.THE PITA PIT It’s a fast-growing restau-rant chain, but there’s something to be said

(chewed?) for the fast, fresh menu of pita sand-wiches, salads and sauces that can be accessed until 3 a.m. weeknights and 4 a.m. weekends. At that time of the morning, where else can you load up on alfalfa sprouts covered in tzatziki sauce? 1 S. Orange Ave., 407-447-7482. $. Deli/Sandwiches.TIJUANA FLATS BURRITO COMPANY What started in 1995 has grown into a handful of walk-in burrito stands that serve up favorites made with a limited set of ingredients. The high-light is the chain’s own line of pepper sauces, called everything from Smack My Ass to Great Bowels of Fire. Filling, tasty and cheap. 8 N. Summerlin Ave., 407-839-0007. $. Mexican.URBAN FLATS The wine list is oh-so-chic, and the fancy cruvinet system used to serve wine by the glass (in 3-ounce and 6-ounce pours) keeps oxidation in order. The flatbreads are stupendous – thin-crusted and kissed by the fire of the woodstone oven. 183 S. Orange Ave., Suite 100, 321-332-6809. $$. American.WAITIKI RETRO TIKI LOUNGE This Wall Street Plaza enclave boasts a Polynesian vibe. Bar snacks augment the specialty-drink menu, but the focus here is on getting loose, not getting full. 26 Wall St., 407-481-1199. $. Hawaiian/Seafood.WALL STREET CANTINA The slightly funky location at Orange Avenue and Wall Street res-cues this streetside eatery from too-calculated hipness. Basic Tex-Mex fried favorites are heaped with pico de gallo, guacamole and sour cream and are absolutely delicious. Salads and grilled sandwiches round out the offerings. 19 N. Orange Ave., 407-420-1515. $. American, Mexican.WILDSIDE BAR AND GRILL BBQ Not Dexter’s-bubbly and a few dollars short of Hue-snooty, Wildside’s bar is a casual hangout for those who want a beer after dinner in Thornton Park. An inside bar with adjacent outside seating doesn’t hurt the people-watching – or dog-watching, either. 700 E. Washington St., 407-872-8665. $. American, Barbecue, Steak.

CENTRAL903 MILLS MARKET Is it a deli? Grocery store? Bar? Grab a draft beer or a glass (or bottle) of wine, take a seat outside and be one of the friendly people in this newly fashionable neighborhood. Some nights you’ll hear live music. 903 S. Mills Ave., 407-898-4392. $. American, Café/Bistro.ANH HONG There are hundreds of items on the menu at this ViMi mainstay, where No. 146 – fried tofu stir-fried with lemongrass and chili – reigns supreme over the many vegetarian options that round out meat and seafood. There are salads, subs (banh mi) and various neon-colored surprises in the takeout refrigerator case. 1124 E. Colonial Drive, 407-999-2656. $. Vegetarian/Vegan, Vietnamese.

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AREPAS AND MORE BUMBY CAFETERIA Hole in the wall serves arepas of every stripe, but it’s also home to a varied menu with influences from Venezuela to Colombia. There’s a $2 special every day, everything has that cooked-by-Mama taste and regulars from the botanica shop next door wander in and out. 207 N. Bumby Ave., 407-894-5262. $. Latin American.BA LE A franchise that combines a deli (famil-iar and exotic sandwiches), a Vietnamese res-taurant (spring rolls, rice bowls) and a French bakery (croissants, baguettes). This international melange makes the food unique, and the qual-ity makes Ba Le uniquely un-chainlike. 1227 N. Mills Ave., 407-898-8011. $. Bakery, French, Vietnamese.BAJA BURRITO KITCHEN Freshness is without question at this fast, healthy chain. Soft tacos are stuffed with fish, burritos are packed with grilled meats and beans are stewed, not refried. The popular Baja burrito is a meal in itself. 2716 E. Colonial Drive, 407-895-6112. $. Mexican.BANANAS: A MODERN AMERICAN DINER Drag queens roam this quirky joint while patrons indulge in classic diner fare with a twist. Burgers are top-notch and chili dogs messy, but for an ultimate late-night drunk-food meal, the chicken and waffles is the way to go. Open 24 hours Fridays and Saturdays. 924 N. Mills Ave., 407-480-2200. $$. American, Diner.BEEFY KING A local legend with a dedicated following, this mighty little sandwich shop has survived for 40 years by doing it better than all the big players. Beefy King’s secret is simple quality. Delicious meats – roast beef, pastrami, turkey – are cooked daily and heated to order over a steam vent to bring out their natural flavors. 424 N. Bumby Ave., 407-894-2241. $. American, Deli/Sandwiches.

BIKES BEANS & BORDEAUX Get your fill of killer sandwiches at this chic haven catering to the city’s cycling set. Chicken salad and cap-rese varieties get you in gear, while thick hum-mus with veggies keeps things rolling; Jittery Joe’s coffee provides a kick-start to the Nutella cupcake’s sugary finish. 3022 Corrine Drive, 407-427-1440. $. American, Deli/Sandwiches.BIKKURI SUSHI Grocery-store sushi bum you out? This tiny spot on well-traveled Colonial Drive should lift your pick-something-up-on-the-way-home spirits. Specializing in reasonably priced trays of fresh, well-cut sushi (they’ve got a regular menu of Japanese cuisine as well), Bikkuri proves that it’s possible to make to-go

sushi without resorting to the rubbery fish they tend to use at the supermarket. 1915 E. Colonial Drive, 407-894-4494. $$. Japanese/Sushi.BLACKWATER BAR-B-Q Competition cook-off veterans ply their tricks of the smoky trade and offer tender ribs, juicy chicken and pretty good corn bread right next door to upscale Le Coq au Vin. Check out the pepper-laced pulled pork and slow-cooked turkey gracing the paper plates here. 3405 Edgewater Drive, 407-447-9511. $. American, Barbecue.BLUE BIRD BAKE SHOP Real butter, fresh fruit and Madagascar bourbon vanilla are among the superior ingredients the bakers at Blue Bird use to create their amazingly addictive cupcakes, baked fresh in small batches every day. In addi-tion to traditional faves like red velvet and straw-berry, this shop also creates unique flavors. Try the chocolate Guinness or vanilla black pepper for a change of pace. 3122 Corrine Drive, 407-228-3822. $. Sweets.BOSTON BAKERY & CAFÉ Individual-size baked goods are hard to come by at this predominantly Vietnamese restaurant, though birthday cakes, jelly rolls and Napoleons are prominently displayed. Satisfy your sweet tooth with a passionfruit slushie or a sugary bubble tea. For an extra kick, consider strong, creamy iced Vietnamese coffee. Excellent banh mi subs, too. 1525 E. Colonial Drive, 407-228-1219. $ Deli/Sandwiches, Sweets.BRAZAS CHICKEN Full-service Edgewood polleria specializes in succulent Peruvian-style rotisserie chicken marinated in a secret blend of paprika, cumin, lemon, vinegar and other seasonings. A whole chicken comes cheap and goes well with sweet plantains, avocado salad and papas huancaina. The dulce de leche-layered alfajore is a sugary chew, but one won’t be enough. 4797 S. Orange Ave., 407-582-0506. $. Latin American.

BRICK & FIRE PIZZA AND WINE CO. Ex-Church Street pizza joint is strictly upper-crust. Goat-cheese pizza and the pulled-chicken calzone with Gouda and portobello shine; baked ziti with brie provides mac-and-cheese comfort for grown-ups. The deep-dish apple pie is big enough to share. 1621 S. Orange Ave., 407-426-8922. $. Pizza.CAFÉ TRASTEVERE Upscale eatery in renovated two-story house offers a casual atmosphere in a postmodern interior, and serves some of the finest pasta and classic Italian entrees in town. Sip wine and enjoy the skyline from the patio. 825 N. Magnolia Ave., 407-839-0235. $$$. Café/Bistro, Italian.CALIFORNIA BURRITO EXPRESS Your drunken prayers for a 24-hour downtown Mexican joint have been heard and answered more than adequately by this colossal menu of deals (most items are under $5). The California burrito stands out with a mix of carne asada, crispy potatoes and bell peppers; a pair of fish tacos and a horchata makes for a classic SoCal taco stand experience. 3922 E. Colonial Drive, 407-894-8250. $. Mexican.CECIL’S TEXAS STYLE BAR-B-Q Specializing in meats slow-cooked over hickory wood, this Texas-style smokehouse raises the bar in fresh-off-the-fire fare. Velvety beef brisket and sausage are signature items, and the smoky succulence of the turkey breast makes for guilt-free indulging. Sides, like the sweet potato souffle and jalapeno chili beans, are outstanding and plentiful. Creamy banana pudding provides a little Southern comfort. 2800 S. Orange Ave., 407-423-9871. $$. Barbecue.CELEBRITY DELLY Lunch-only sandwich spot that serves grand creations named after Tinseltown favorites, as well as deli standbys such as a chopped-liver sandwich on pum-pernickel and a great egg cream. Side items stand up too, like the chunky coleslaw with

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red cabbage and the flavorful matzo-ball soup. 2030 W. Colonial Drive, 407-839-1983. $. Deli/Sandwiches, Pizza.CHAN’S CHINESE CUISINE If you order from the dinner menu, steer away from dishes that involve sauces and gravies. Better to visit for lunch, when a roving dim-sum service offers an affordable range of dumplings, spring rolls and assorted delicacies sold per piece. 1901 E. Colonial Drive, 407-896-0093. $. Chinese.CHARLEY’S STEAK HOUSE This old-school establishment answers traditional meat-eaters’ cravings with some of the best cuts in town. Stick with the steak, though; everything else is just a distraction. 6107 S. Orange Blossom Trail, 407-851-7130. $$$$. Steak.CHARLIE’S GOURMET PASTRIES Fourth-generation bakery offers a novel way to put your favorite snapshots to use: Have them scanned for a photo cake, transferring the image onto a sheet cake with white icing (starting at $18). From Elvis cakes to birthday-girl cakes, the possibilities are endless. 3213 Curry Ford Road, 407-898-9561. $. Bakery.CHILI DADDY The mustard-colored cook-house on the corner of South Street and Graham Avenue is a haven for chili connoisseurs. The Thai basil is a singular chili experience, worth driving off the beaten path for, and if the “private reserve” chili is available, jump at the chance to try it. Closed Sundays and Mondays; cash only. 419 E. Michigan St., 407-425-5512. $. American, Soup.CHINA IN COLLEGE PARK Chinese-American restaurant on Edgewater Drive fills the niche for takeout Chinese in the neighborhood. They offer a wide variety of hugely portioned Chinese and Thai dishes at very reasonable prices. Also on the menu is a decent selection of sushi. 2122 Edgewater Drive, College Park, 407-839-8869. $. Chinese.CHI PAN ASIAN Handsome downtown spot diversifies its pan Asian portfolio to include Turkish fare. The mixed grill of beef, chicken, lamb and shrimp is a kebab-lover’s delight, though traditional Peking duck, steamed dump-lings and beef soup impress as well. Turkish coffee and fresh lychees topped with cream make splendid endings. 4856 New Broad St., 407-898-0600. $$. Asian, Chinese, Thai, Vietnamese, Turkish.CHRISTO’S CAFÉ Venerable College Park diner celebrates its throwback image by proudly serving classic American fare as it has for decades. Breakfasts have the hungry and hungover clamoring for tables and pre-noon faves such as deep-fried French toast and Greek omelets. 1815 Edgewater Drive, 407-425-8136. $. American, Diner.CHUCK’S RESTAURANT Diner wears its rough edges well, serving solid fare to regulars who depend on jump-starting their day with items like sausage gravy over biscuits. The British owners add a twist to the standard menu with daily specials that might include their home-style favorites, like bangers and mash. 807 N. Mills Ave., 407-898-8143. $. Breakfast, Diner.CINDY’S TROPICAL CAFÉ Excellent no-frills food that’s extremely light on the wallet. The Daily Good Deals – thinly sliced steak, pork or chicken, beans and rice, plantains and a salad – mark the high end of the menu at $5.99. Also available is an array of subs, a breakfast selec-tion and a not-to-be-missed relleno de papa. 601 Virginia Drive, 407-898-6878. $. Cuban.CLADDAGH COTTAGE Laid-back neighbor-hood pub run by Jimmy and Kathy Mulvaney, who keep the ale flowing, fortified by traditional Irish stick-to-your-ribs fare like a variety of pastry pies filled with savory, meaty gravy inside buttery crusts. The Guinness will be properly double-poured at this authentic and casual spot soaked in Irish charm. 4308 Curry Ford Road, 407-895-1555. $. Irish.

COLIBRI Upscale Baldwin Park taqueria has honed its act in the kitchen but still needs work on the service end. The mole is bueno, as is lus-cious chipotle pepper-cream sauce lathered over plump shrimp. Tres leches cake is a decadent capper. 4963 New Broad St., 407-629-6601. $$. Mexican.CORNERSTONE PIZZA It’s neither new nor fancy, but this neighborhood dive turns out thin-crust pizzas that have been time- and taste-test-ed by the everyday characters who find refuge there. The loaded stromboli is totally over the top in a made-by-hungry-stoners way. 1513 E. Michigan St., 407-894-4333. $$. Italian, Pizza.DANDELION COMMUNITEA CAFÉ More than 30 organic loose-leaf teas are offered at this socially conscious teahouse that’s become

a gathering ground for nonconformists, neo-cons and everyone in between. A predominantly vegan menu of wraps, salads and an outstand-ingly hearty chili will satisfy even the most ravenous of carnivores. Start with hummus with hemp seeds and finish with the fluffernut-ter sandwich – a sweet proposition. 618 N. Thornton Ave., 407-362-1864. $. American, Coffee/Tea, Vegetarian/Vegan.DRUNKEN MONKEY COFFEE BAR Meat, though present on the menu, takes a backseat to healthy vegan and vegetarian fare at this urban coffeehouse. Of note: Liquid-gold soups and hearty vegetarian paella. Banana bread with chocolate chips partners well with the Mojo Jojo, coffee with cinnamon and sweetened con-densed milk. Don’t overlook the fresh-squeezed juices. 444 N. Bumby Ave., 407-893-4994. $. Vegetarian/Vegan.★ ETHOS VEGAN KITCHEN Creative, satisfying meatless fare is the norm at this all-vegan restaurant. Mac and cheese is gratifyingly gooey and segues nicely into sheep’s pie with its generous heaping of fluffy mashed potatoes. A cozy outdoor courtyard offers bucolic views of the oaks fringing Lake Ivanhoe and hosts Sunday brunch and monthly vegan barbe-cues. 1235 N. Orange Ave., 407-228-3898. $. Vegetarian/Vegan.FLORIDA HOSPITAL CAFETERIA It’s no secret on the health-food circuit that vegetarian and generally healthy food can be found here, thanks to the dietary observances of the found-ing Seventh Day Adventists. But real chocolate brownies and coffee with caffeine can also be found in the dizzying spread that starts with a pizza/pasta station. 601 E. Rollins St., 407-303-5600. $. American, Vegetarian/Vegan.FUNKY MONKEY WINE COMPANY Chef Penelope Brown is into the game, and mains like lean ostrich filet and the bison burger under-score the fact. The Monkey’s decor, like the menu, is a hybrid of Eastern touches and big-city panache; there’s nothing particularly funky

in sight. The ample wine list should please the most cultured of oenophiles. 912 N. Mills Ave., 407-427-1447. $$$. American, Wine.GARGI’S The view of Lake Ivanhoe is spectac-ular – especially at sunset – the menu and decor is classic and classy, and the food is satisfying, if nothing fancy. The experience will cost you, though, and be prepared to wait patiently for a drink, the bill, whatever. 1414 N. Orange Ave., 407-894-7907. $$$. Italian, Pizza.HARMONI MARKET A harmonious comple-ment of flavors is the hallmark of this foodie haven. If you’re still hungry after a sensible por-tion of penne with fig, bacon and blue cheese or a crackly-hot lemon, olive and goat-cheese flat-bread, step into the market side of the bifurcated bistro and pick up a chocolate bar or a pint of

sorbet. 2305 Edgewater Drive, 407-206-0033. $$. Italian.★ IL PESCATORE Former owner Stefano LaCommare and family have moved on, but in this simple atmosphere their dishes live on, true Italian through and through. Seafood specialties make this spot unique; choosing between all the huge pasta entrees is pleasingly difficult. 651 N. Primrose Drive, 407-896-6763. $$. Italian, Pizza, Seafood.INFUSION TEA Some special places offer more than what’s on the table, and while the teas and veggie snacks are wonderful at this quaint corner spot, just as much nourishment comes from the “third place” environment created by Christina and Brad Cowherd. 1600 Edgewater Drive, 407-999-5255. $. Coffee/Tea, Vegetarian/Vegan.ITALIAN BEEFSTRO It’s “da beef”: peppery, aromatic, thinly sliced roast beef piled thick on a steamed roll and doused with roasting juices until the bread is soggy with flavor. Classic Chicago dogs and Italian sausage complete the Wrigleyville vibe of the menu. 705 W. Colonial Drive, 407-601-7444. $. Deli/Sandwiches.JADE BISTRO Veteran sushi chefs join sea-soned restaurant owners for a truly delightful combination. The multi-nation Asian cuisine is no gimmick, each part of the menu meeting and often exceeding expectations. 2425 Edgewater Drive, 407-422-7968. $$. Chinese, Japanese/Sushi, Pan-Asian, Thai.JASON’S DELI This chain deli may not conform to Delancey Street standards, but they know how to construct a sandwich; the reuben is a towering two-fister. Baked potatoes are gargantuan, but the well-stocked salad bar and selection of healthy heart slimwiches will appeal to the gym rats from next door. 2915 E. Colonial Drive, 407-898-9806. $ Deli/Sandwiches.JAX 5TH AVE. DELI & ALE College Park stalwart serves up unaffected, no-nonsense fare. The joint is decidedly more downtown than it is

uptown, and though they do take pride in their sandwich-making abilities, Jax is more CP-er’s watering hole of choice than it is a traditional deli. 3400 Edgewater Drive, 407-999-8934. $. Deli/Sandwiches.JOHNNY’S FILLIN’ STATION Johnny’s appeal does not end with its burgers. We’re not talking about the cold beer or the billiards tables that keep regulars coming back. It’s the atmosphere – accessible and friendly. 2631 S. Fern Creek Ave., 407-894-6900. $. American, Hamburgers.JULIANA’S RESTAURANT & BAR If you liked the Edgewater Grille, you’ll like Juliana’s; same owners, same menu, same wine list, same ambience. Try the pan-seared mussels, and leave room for dessert. 2306 Edgewater Drive, 407-425-1801. $$$. Italian, Seafood.JULIE’S WATERFRONT There’s good cooking going on at Julie’s on Lake Jennie, far enough south of downtown not to be trendy, but still a lure to locals – from the mayor to the Everyman. Sit in the plastic chairs on the back deck to down the famous fried seafood and pitchers of cold beer. Or go for updated options like veggie quesadillas, hummus and tabouli. 4201 S. Orange Ave., 407-240-2557. $. Seafood.★ JUNIOR’S DINER This popular diner in the heart of the Audubon Park neighborhood serves up inexpensive, tasty grub for breakfast and lunch. The menu features classic diner fare – eggs any way you want them, corned-beef hash, pancakes, burgers – and the ambience is that of your favorite hole-in-the-wall neighbor-hood joint. Expect a wait for breakfast on the weekends. 2920 Corrine Drive, 407-894-8871. $. Diner. K RESTAURANT Consolidating K Wine Bar and Nonna into one powerhouse has produced harmonious results, and the old space’s din has been dampened thanks to carpet and velvet curtains. Grilled beef hearts and the K-stack salad are superbly balanced starters; pecan pie is worth the wait. 1710 Edgewater Drive, 407-872-2332. $$$. Italian.KING CAJUN CRAWFISH A host of season-ing choices, top-notch sides (corn on the cob and hush puppies in particular) and cut-rate prices make this Cajun dive a real draw for din-ers craving crawfish boils. Other NOLA staples are hit (catfish po’boy) and miss (gumbo). End with a strong cup of Café du Monde coffee. 914 N. Mills Ave., 407-704-8863. $. Cajun/Creole, Seafood.LAC VIET BISTRO Orlando has some of the best Vietnamese food in the nation, and you’ll find some of it at Lac-Viet, a newcomer on the Vietnamese-flavored stretch of Colonial Drive near Mills Avenue. With a sense of style, they serve great old standbys as well as fresh inven-tions. 2021 E. Colonial Drive, 407-228-4000. $$. Vietnamese.LAGO With a stunning interior and the dishes to match, this Baldwin Park boîte is sure to attract from near and far. Stuffed meatballs and oven-roasted beets over baby arugula are wonderfully rustic starters; talent in the kitchen shines through in espresso-rubbed ahi tuna. House-made tiramisu is worthy of superlatives. Extensive wine list offers bottles for any budget. 4979 New Broad St., 407-331-5246. $$$$. Italian.★ LE COQ AU VIN Incredible, affordable French cuisine is the hallmark of this South Orlando landmark. Graceful perfection distin-guishes dishes such as grouper bronze aux dix epices, a fillet encrusted with toasted pecans and spices and bathed in citrus beurre blanc, and the center-cut black Angus steak, served with a dollop of peppercorn sauce. 4800 S. Orange Ave., 407-851-6980. $$$$. French.LIDO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT Discovering Lido’s is like stumbling into a family reunion. For a small neighborhood haunt, there’s a wide vari-

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ety of inexpensive wines, and strict adherence to its motto: old-style cooking in a comfortable atmosphere. 2509 S. Orange Ave., 407-423-8933. $$. Italian, Pizza.LINDA’S LA CANTINA STEAKHOUSE No matter how you slice it, Linda’s La Cantina serves a superb steak and has been doing so for more than a half a century. The surf-and-turf is fantastic. The T-bone steaks are served in mammoth proportions. Though nothing else on the menu is quite so impressive, the atmosphere is pleasant and casual. 4721 E. Colonial Drive, 407-894-4491. $$$$. American, Steak.LITTLE SAIGON This place bustles like the high-traffic neighborhood around the intersec-tion of Mills Avenue and Colonial Drive, where it has been serving for more than 12 years. The menu runs the gamut from appetizers to noodle dishes to stir-fries, mixing and matching pork, beef, seafood and vegetables. The combo plates are a good deal. Service and attention are com-mensurate with inside traffic. 1106 E. Colonial Drive, 407-423-8539. $$. Vietnamese.LOGAN’S BISTRO With a quaint neighbor-hood location along Virginia Drive, Logan’s is unusual in that it is chef-owned and operated by a husband-and-wife team who have an impres-sive amount of experience. The homemade soups (no cans!) are impressively delicious, and the fish and chips are authentically British. Don’t miss the herbed goat cheese cheesecake. 802 Virginia Drive, 407-898-5688. $$$. American, Café/Bistro.LOLA’S GOURMET TO GO This tried-and-true eat-in or take-home kitchen holds many treasures. Changing daily, the menu offers sandwiches, soups and entrees ranging from Bohemian tilapia to Tuscan chicken to Chinese stir-fry. A great place to get party eats. 2806 Corrine Drive, 407-898-5652. $$. Coffee/Tea, Deli/Sandwiches, Market.

LOLLICUP Bubble teas, invented in Taiwan in the 1980s to appeal to school kids, have taken hold in Orlando. Tapioca pearls, or boba‚ create the illusion of bubbles in the exotic drinks that range from an avocado smoothie to four-color pudding – all distinguished by the shrink-wrap lid. 1212 E. Colonial Drive, 407-897-1377. $. Coffee/Tea, Sweets.LOVING HUT Formerly a dark cave of a Vietnamese restaurant, the tiny building has been transformed into a sparkling-white temple of oddly delicious veggie dining. The environ-mentally friendly Loving Hut offers a win-win proposition: Along with more typical Asian options like “noble rice” and “saintly stir-fry,” the menu is stocked with snacks like cheese-cake, golden nuggets and happy dogs, but it’s all vegan. Don’t miss the fresh spring rolls or the “coconut delight.” 2101 E. Colonial Drive, 407-894-5673. $. Vegetarian/Vegan.MARBLE SLAB CREAMERY Here they turn ice-cream cones into an art form. Choose your scoop from tubs of freshly made ice cream, then pick from the cookie or candy mix-ins. They’ll pound and fold the two together on a marble slab, creating a delicious blob. 2614 E. Colonial Drive, 407-895-0250. $. Sweets.MCWELLS RESTAURANT AND BAR Formerly Tom and Mony’s Backroom, the new name didn’t change the inside: a basic (but cheap!) beer/liquor selection, a pool table, video games, bar food, friendly service and a splash of regulars. They do offer a pale McWells ale made by Budweiser; it tastes OK and only costs $1.50, so forgive the subterfuge. 4757 S. Orange Ave., 407-855-4006. $. American.MEDINA’S GROCERY & RESTAURANT A humble setting for hearty Cuban and Puerto Rican home cooking where the food far out-shines the service; in fact, the pace can be downright glacial. 2405 E. Washington St., 407-894-9294. $. Cuban, Puerto Rican.

MEDITERRANEAN DELI An oasis of authen-ticity, complete with odd decorations, exhilarat-ingly exotic smells and hearty but inexpensive meals. You’ll find perfect hummus, superior kibbeh and superb gyros, not to mention one of the best spinach pies around. A top spot to eat for $10 or less. 981 W. Fairbanks Ave., 407-539-2650. $. Greek, Lebanese, Middle Eastern.MING’S BISTRO Hard to spot, but well worth seeking, Ming’s specializes in the a la carte scarfing extravaganza known as dim sum, though spicy beef hot pan with vermicelli and ginger scallion fish fillets are also worthy dishes. Menu descriptions are terse so be sure to ask your red-vested server about the ingredients. 1212 Woodward St., Suite 6, 407-898-9672. $. Chinese.MISTER SISTERS You could almost be for-given for looking at the hot-pink exterior of this

popular east-side gay bar and not thinking of it as a serious place to eat. But with a menu cre-ated by Pom Pom (of Pom Pom’s Teahouse and Sandwicheria) and based on the Seven Deadly Sins, this sister is a real contender. Sandwiches, small plates, flatbreads, nachos, salads and more – are you sure gluttony is really such an awful sin? 5310 E. Colonial Drive, 407-545-2467. $. American/Bar food/Tapas.MOJO CAJUN BAR & GRILL Cajun bar and grill in the old Rosie O’Grady’s locale adds Bourbon Street pizzazz to the Church Street scene, but it’s more a draw for barflies than foodies. Booze takes precedence over a menu lined with NOLA staples: po’boys, muffuletas, gumbo and jambalaya. The food won’t impress you, but if you knock back a few too many Abita beers or hurricanes, it’ll satisfy. 129 W. Church St., 407-422-6656. $. Cajun/Creole.

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O’BOYS REAL SMOKED BAR-B-Q Unlike other barbecue establishments that serve all smoke and no flavor, O’Boys delivers both with a menu that offers enough variety to satisfy most folks. The sampler platter combines all the favorites of ribs, beef, pork and chicken. If you’re really hungry, an all-you-can-eat special starts after 3 p.m. Don’t skip the side dishes. 3138 S. Orange Ave., 407-447-7404. $. American, Barbecue.OLV CAFÉ Equal parts café, wine bar and tapas joint, this inviting spot is a gather-ing ground for SoDo’s urban patronage. An adequate menu of gourmet items doesn’t necessarily wow, but petite beef tenders and tuna ceviche are satisfying. Beware desiccated chicken kebabs and too-sweet duck confit flat-bread. Assorted mini indulgences are in keeping with the small-plate theme. 25 W. Crystal Lake St., 407-722-5060. $$. American, Café/Bistro, Tapas.PANERA BREAD If sandwiches, soups, salads and baked goods are what you’re crav-ing, this chain bistro has you covered. Steak and white cheddar paninis are satisfyingly salty, and the chopped salads make for a surprisingly hearty lunch. 3463 E. Colonial Drive, 407-228-2874. $. Café/BistroPAXIA ALTA COCINA MEXICANA College Park spot leads the charge to bring worthy Mexican cuisine to this city. Tangy cactus stems highlight the nopalitos salad; chipotle lends black bean soup an understated bite; and mole poblano and char-grilled skirt steak are worthy of signature-dish status. 2611 Edgewater Drive, College Park, 407-420-1155. $$. Mexican.PEI WEI ASIAN DINER P.F. Chang’s snazzy foray into fast-casual dining offers a wide array of affordable pan-Asian cuisine, from noodles to rice bowls to salads. Try the lettuce wraps (filled with minced chicken or chili-seared pork), a signature dish. 3011 E. Colonial Drive, 407-563-8777. $. Noodles, Pan-Asian.★ PHO 88 You won’t need burgers for a fast-food fix once you find this Vietnamese noodle shop. Specializing in gigantic bowls of very thin rice noodles and various cuts of beef submerged in delicately seasoned broth, they also serve the usual exotics of shrimp paste and grilled pork. But the soup’s the thing. 730 N. Mills Ave., 407-897-3488. $. Vietnamese.PHO HOA This chain restaurant is notable for its slow-simmered, delicately seasoned soup with a variety of additions, from basic steak and chicken to acquired tastes like tripe and tendon. Play it safe or explore. 649 N. Primrose Drive, 407-895-6098. $$. Vietnamese.PIATTINI PIZZERIA & CAFÉ Priced for worker bees, this West Church Street spot offers plenty of possibilities. Pastas, panini and salads cost less than $9, and pizzas range from the usuals to specialties like the pollo pesto. Leave room for desserts like chocolate ganache cheesecake. 595 W. Church St., 407-419-3773. $. Italian, Pizza.POLLO TROPICAL This chain restaurant, which was founded in Miami in 1988, is a “quick service” (fast food) restaurant that eschews the greasy burger-and-fries concept for something with a bit more flair and flavor. Fresh, citrus-marinated chicken, guava barbecued ribs, chops and sides like rice and beans dominate the Caribbean menu. The food is tasty and cheap – exactly what you want, but can rarely find, in fast food. 3224 E. Colonial Drive, 321-281-0180. $. Caribbean.★ POM POM’S TEAHOUSE & SANDWICHERIA Want interesting sand-wiches (yellow curry chicken salad with toasted almonds, red apple and onion), unusual tea (raspberry-rose), killer desserts (lavender-peppercorn creme brulee) and a cheery atmo-sphere? Find it all here. Open 24 hours Friday and Saturday. 67 N. Bumby Ave., 407-894-0865. $. Coffee/Tea, Deli/Sandwiches.

PRINCETON DINER Located at a College Park crossroads, Princeton Diner keeps locals coming back with standard fare and atmosphere. Regular specials like meat loaf on Thursdays anchor the eatery, as does the faded “Enjoy Coca-Cola” sign and the 1940s-style stools at the Formica counter. Five bucks fills you up with breakfast or lunch. 3310 Edgewater Drive, 407-425-5046. $. American, Diner.RAGAZZI’S PIZZA AND RESTAURANT This College Park pizza joint serves up New York-style pizzas, chicken wings, calzones, baked ziti and the like. 3231 Edgewater Drive, 407-872-7324. $. Italian, Pizza.

RAINBOW CAFÉ Unpretentious café inside the Parliament House resort offers standard, not highfalutin, American classics like cheeseburg-ers, patty melts and satisfyingly saucy chicken wings. The 8-ounce filet mignon offers a decent value, and if you like your teriyaki sauce on the sweet side, opt for the bartender salad. Swoon-worthy chocolate cake is gooey-fabulous. 410 N. Orange Blossom Trail, 407-425-7571. $$. American.RAINBOW SNO-CONES The original fat-free frozen snack, this simple recipe of shaved ice and a shot of flavored dextrose comes in 55 fla-vors, from polar punch (light blue raspberry) to sour apple. 3116 Corrine Drive, 407-896-9105. $. Sweets.★ RAPHSODIC BAKERY Old-fashioned tile floor, glass-fronted dark wood display cases and exposed ductwork lend a pleasingly industrial-cum-apothecary feel – just right for a fix of healthy vegan decadence, but they open too late for a morning java fix. No matter, dairy-free Chinese five-spice brownies and dense, moist carrot-ginger spice cake (and of course, the omnipresent red velvet cupcakes) will shut down your critical faculties. 710 N. Mills Ave., 407-704-8615. $$. Sweets, Vegetarian/Vegan.SAIGON MARKET A shopping adventure, Saigon style. You’ll find red perilla, a licorice-flavored leaf eaten with sashimi, and Chinese rehmannia root (used by herbalists to treat fatigue). There’s a whole aisle of fish sauces, and hard-to-find black rice vinegar that’s sweet enough to use alone on a salad. 1232 E. Colonial Drive, 407-898-6899. $. Market.SEA THAI Yet another Asian entry on the east-ern edge of the ViMi district, Sea Thai’s menu is also edgy; house specialties include a jazzed-up South East Asia pad thai with prawns, and pine-apple duck curry offers crispy boneless meat covered with pineapple and red curry-cream sauce. 3812 E. Colonial Drive, 407-895-0985. $$. Thai.SHAKERS AMERICAN CAFÉ The tiny cottage has served its tried-and-true breakfast and lunch menu for ages without becoming

outdated. There’s not much space inside, so many lunch fans order takeout, aided by the daily update of specials on their website. 1308 Edgewater Drive, 407-422-9227. $. American, Breakfast, Deli/Sandwiches, Diner.SHIN JUNG At this tiny place with no-frills decor but exotic Korean cuisine, a 10-item barbecue list offers stalwart diners authentic choices such as unmarinated beef tongue. The less skittish might try hawe nang myun, a cold noodle dish served with hot-spiced stingray. Let the servers steer you. 1638 E. Colonial Drive, 407-895-7345. $$. Korean.SMOKEY BONES BARBEQUE It’s a cross

between a mountain lodge and a sports bar. The hook is Rocky Mountain-style barbecue, dating back to a smoker fashioned from a piece of the famous pipeline. There’s nothing out of the ordi-nary, but it’s done well. 3400 E. Colonial Drive, 407-894-1511. $$. American, Barbecue.SOCIAL CHAMELEON Calm, cool and col-lected neighborhood sanctuary proffers pizza and peace of mind along with a diverse selec-tion of microbrews, organic wines and sangria. Liberal garnishing makes winners out of the pizzas; among the Mediterranean tapas, grape leaves are an absolute delight. Genial (and dog-friendly) service. 2406 E. Robinson St., 407-715-2138. $. Mediterranean, Pizza, Tapas.SOPRANO’S RISTORANTE & PIZZERIA Family-style joint serves Italian traditionals of the parmigiana, scaloppine and marsala varieties, as well as upscale entries like salmon carpaccio – thin shavings of smoked salmon with capers, onions and diced tomatoes, drizzled with olive oil. At the pizza ovens, the hot boxes are moved out at the pace of a mad ballet. 3990 Curry Ford Road, 407-895-9334. $$. Italian, Pizza.SPOOKY’S BLACK CAT CAFÉ Quirky café anchors the east end of the Milk District. A pur-posefully eclectic decor mirrors a purposefully eclectic menu of Indian- and Southern-inspired fare: pulled pork on waffles, minty grape leaves, umami naan. If the service won’t prolong your stay, the homemade pies and cakes surely will. Stellar beer list. Closed Sundays and Mondays. 207 North Primrose Drive, 407-896-2377. $$. Deli/Sandwiches, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, Vegetarian/Vegan.★ STARDUST VIDEO & COFFEE It’s a coffeehouse, but Stardust sneaked an amazing selection of imported beers into the cooler (and a few wines onto the shelf). It’s like hanging out at home and sampling beer from countries you can’t pronounce, if your living room were full of hipsterific kids cruising each other. 1842 E. Winter Park Road, 407-623-3393. $. Coffee/Tea, Vegetarian/Vegan.STEAK & SALAD Forgo the midrange cuts of

steak that can be had anywhere and flip to the menu’s back page, where a host of Turkish offer-ings await. Meat-lovers will revel in the mixed grill, plated with varying cuts of beef, chicken and lamb. Imported baklava and a demitasse of Turkish coffee make an exquisite ending. 1326 N. Mills Ave., 407-898-0999. $$. American, Steak, Turkish.SUSHI LOLA’S Traditional sushi meshed with huge American sandwiches – it’s an unusual fusion, but it works. Sushi rolls, ramen and bento boxes play nice with chicken salad and the like. Standouts: the “Magic” roll, served aflame, and the Korean bulgogi cheesesteak sandwich. And you can trek down the mall to Park Ave CDs for an after-dinner treat. 2806 Corrine Drive, 407-898-5652. $. Japanese/Sushi, Deli/Sandwiches, Pan-Asian, Pan-Asian.TAP ROOM AT DUBSDREAD Historic dining destination on the grounds of Orlando’s oldest public golf course offers simple, impeccably prepared dishes. Pot roast makes an ideal meat-and-potatoes nosh and homemade key lime pie is a must. Crowds peter out after 9 p.m. 549 W. Par St., 407-650-0100. $$$. American.TASTE RESTAURANT The dining remains unchanged but once the kitchen closes, the bar stays open and its new night life stirs. Will Walker (of Will’s Pub) has completely revamped the side room into a legitimate concert hall with stage, lights and PA, and it looks and sounds great. Regular weeknight themes – some musi-cal, some visual arts – are popular. It’s an effec-tive synthesis of live venue and lounge. 717 W. Smith St., 407-835-0646. $$. American, Café/Bistro, Tapas.TASTY THAI The minimal interior is a perfect foil for a complex menu, with flavors that come together in sweet, surprising ways. Grilled, roasted and stir-fried meats merge with combi-nations of lemongrass, curry, chilies, cilantro, ginger and coconut milk. Service is thoughtful and gracious. 3806 Curry Ford Road, 407-895-6266. $. Thai.THAI HOUSE No nouveau-fusion cuisine here – just authentic fare, from the tom kha gai (chicken-coconut soup) to truly wonderful pad thai. Don’t let the silly names stop you; Smokey and the Bandit – a small tureen of smoked shrimp, glass noodles and veggies – is loaded with the flavors of chili and ginger. 2117 E. Colonial Drive, 407-898-0820. $$. Thai.★ THE GREEK CORNER The view of the downtown skyline is spectacular from this nook on Orange Avenue across from Lake Ivanhoe. Dining outside is a must, as is the hearty meze platter, with a sampling of enough Greek special-ties – baked feta, gyro meat, braised lamb and traditional salads melitzanosalat and taramo-salata – to satisfy the gods on Mount Olympus. 1600 N. Orange Ave., 407-228-0303. $$. Greek, Middle Eastern.THEO’S KITCHEN Head into this hole in the wall for the superbly seasoned fried chicken – everyone else does. But the lamb gyros, stuffed grape leaves, hummus, falafel and other Syrian/Greek standbys are just as worthy. Prices are dirt-cheap. 2952 Curry Ford Road, 407-849-0810. $. Greek, Middle Eastern, Southern.★ TONY’S DELI There are tables inside, but Tony’s is designed for easy, delicious takeout – perfect for lunch and handy for a cheap, healthy dinner. All the usual suspects – baba ghanoush, hummus, tabouli – as well as pickled beets, fava beans, fatoosh and more can be packed into 8-, 16- or 32-ounce packages. Don’t forget sweet pistachio baklava for dessert. 1323 N. Mills Ave., 407-898-6689. $. Greek, Middle Eastern, Vegetarian/Vegan.TOOJAY’S DELI Gourmet deli holds its own with regards to tradition, doing justice to chopped liver, matzo-ball soup and cheese blin-tzes. But the menu opens up to contemporary palates as well with California turkey wraps, garlic-chicken pasta, omelets and burgers. Don’t

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leave without a black-and-white cookie. 2400 E. Colonial Drive, 407-894-1718. $. American, Breakfast, Deli/Sandwiches, Diner.TWISTED BLISS ICE CREAM Walk-up window dispenses daily-changing menu of homemade Italian ices (such as banana cream pie, cookie dough or Red Bull) that can either be scooped alone or swirled with fresh soft-serve, then topped with a variety of sweet goodies. There’s an attached outdoor patio where you can sit and contemplate the results of your dabbling in the frozen arts. 1807 N. Orange Ave., 407-484-2653. $. Sweets.VIET GARDEN A mainstay since 1994, this cozy eatery owes its success to Charlie Tang, who took over in 1998 and made it the great restaurant it remains today. The service has been polished up, but what makes us go back is the consistently fresh food. Don’t miss the gold-en pancake, one of the best Vietnamese crepes in town. 1237 E. Colonial Drive, 407-896-4154. $. Thai, Vegetarian/Vegan, Vietnamese.VINH’S With its extensive, varied menu, Vinh’s is a good place to explore the contrasts of Vietnamese food – from traditional barbecue pork rolls and substantial soups to eclectic dishes such as lotus roots with shrimp, pork and sour salad. 1231 E. Colonial Drive, 407-894-5007. $$. Thai, Vietnamese.WHITE WOLF CAFÉ With its quirky, romantic setting and easy pace, this antique-market-turned-bar-and-café is a landmark hangout on the cluttered strip of Orange Avenue that lies on the fringes of down-town. The menu is eclectic as well, with vegetarian burgers, Middle Eastern fare and focaccia pies, as well as entrees like mac and cheese with lobster and cedar-plank salmon. 1829 N. Orange Ave., 407-895-9911. $$. Club, American, Café/Bistro.

WINTER PARK AREA310 PARK SOUTH With its bistro tables clustered outside and its French doors flung open to posh Park Avenue, this café exudes casual, sophisticated charm. But look again: The menu is filled with burgers, pasta and salads – a restaurant for the people. 310 S. Park Ave., Winter Park, 407-647-7277. $$$. American, Café/Bistro.ANNA’S POLISH RESTAURANT Charming little eatery offers up a bevy of Polish staples

– corpulent kielbasas, pillowy pierogies and a hearty goulash. The crispy chicken cutlet is worthy of “chef’s specialty” status, while the red borscht will get some vegetables on the plate in this meat-lover’s haven. Like the service, apple strudel shines. 3586 Aloma Ave., Winter Park, 407-657-0020. $$. Eastern European, Polish.ANTONIO’S CAFÉ, DOWNSTAIRS A favorite alternative to its fancier upstairs sister, Antonio’s downstairs deli offers counter service and full table service. But be prepared to have your dining space invaded by shoppers brows-ing the gourmet goodies. 611 S. Orlando Ave., Maitland, 407-645-1035. $$. Italian, Pizza.ANTONIO’S LA FIAMMA RESTAURANT Smart and sophisticated without being impos-ing, Antonio’s serves a first-rate combination of atmosphere and cuisine. Sauces are the heart of chef Sebastian Santangelo’s creations – like a double-thick sauteed veal chop in a cognac sauce, or zuppa di pesce, a mixed bag of sea-food in an herbed broth. 611 S. Orlando Ave., Maitland, 407-645-1035. $$$. Café/Bistro, Italian, Pizza.AUTHENTIC CUBAN CAFÉ It doesn’t have to be midnight for Park Avenue patrons to enjoy a medianoche sandwich. Mothers with stroll-ers stand alongside businessmen in Armani sunglasses just to get a taste of the sweet, hot pressed bread, made in-house and filled with the traditional Cuban sandwich accoutrements. Breakfast is also served, as are cruelly sweet desserts. 133 E. Morse Blvd., Winter Park, 407-629-2822. $. Cuban.★ BLACK BEAN DELI After dishing out homespun favorites since the mid-’80s, Black Bean has changed hands – from aunt to nephew – and there’s a new vitality to the kitchen. Lunch platters are a bargain; tender roast chicken has a citrusy tang, pork is marinated and slow-cooked and the black beans are dandy. 325 S. Orlando Ave., Winter Park, 407-628-0294. $. Cuban.

BOATHOUSE RESTAURANT WINTER PARK Weekend nights can get raucous at this bar and grill, but an impressive menu of nouveau Southern cuisine keeps the senses focused. Fried green tomatoes are augmented by a wonderful roasted red pepper aioli; fork-flaky grouper and peach cobbler underscore the Southern comfort. Closed Sundays. 565 W. Fairbanks Ave., Winter Park, 407-513-4815. $$$. American.BOSPHOROUS TURKISH CUISINE Orlando’s only Turkish restaurant serves delight-ful fare with many lamb, eggplant and yogurt-centered dishes. Not only is the food superb, it’s also a nice place to sit while smoking scented tobacco from their water pipes and/or enjoying a glass of Turkish wine. 108 S. Park Ave., Winter Park, 407-644-8609. $$$. Armenian, Middle Eastern, Turkish.BOSTON’S FISH HOUSE Orders are placed at the counter and payment settled, customers are steered to a vacant table – if there is one. Most seafood is fried, and Ipswich clams are a house specialty. 6860 Aloma Ave., Winter Park, 407-678-2107. $. Seafood.BRIAR PATCH Primo location on Park Avenue guarantees a steady influx of old fans and curi-ous newcomers. What keeps them coming back is the front-porch coziness and the creative menu. Beware the long lines around breakfast/lunch on weekends – there are many who are willing to wait. 252 N. Park Ave., Winter Park, 407-628-8651. $$. American, Breakfast.BRIO TUSCAN GRILLE With a stylish atmosphere and well-executed menus, Brio excels at flatbread pizzas and wood-grilled steak. A bakery adds warmth to this bustling eatery at Winter Park Village. Try the Bellini brunch on weekends. 480 N. Orlando Ave., Suite 108, Winter Park, 407-622-5611. $$$. Italian, Pizza, Steak.

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BUBBALOU’S BODACIOUS BAR-B-QUE Follow the siren smell of smoky, sweet meats: pork, chicken, beef, turkey, sausage, lamb and, for BBQ rebels, gizzards and livers. At meal times, expect to fight your way to a table at this award-winner. 1471 Lee Road, Winter Park, 407-628-1212. $$. American, Barbecue.BUCA DI BEPPO Eclectic Italian eatery on the former Bubble Room site is as kitschy as its predecessor. Everything is done in a big way, with every inch of wall space garishly festooned with memorabilia and an army of waiters delivering enormous portions – pizzas as big as countertops, foot-long lasagna. Reservations are essential. 1351 S. Orlando Ave., Maitland, 407-622-7663. $$$. Italian, Pizza.★ BUFFALO WILD WINGS GRILL & BAR You’d better be in the mood for bar food if you end up at one of the mulitple Buffalo Wild Wings in the area. Wings, burgers, flatbreads, sandwiches, fried apps and the like dominate the menu. 900 State Road 436, Casselberry, (407) 671-9300. $. Bar food.CAFÉ 118 The raw food movement sprouts at Café 118, where raw ingredients supplant all manner of cooked comestibles. Macadamia- and cashew-based cheeses‚ are central ingredients in crunchy chiles rellenos and refreshing basil wrappers, while portobello steak takes on the appearance of filleted tenderloin, right down to the pan juices. Fresh fruit-and-vegetable juices, like beet and green apple, are splendid. 153 E. Morse Blvd., Winter Park, 407-389-2233. $$$. Vegetarian/Vegan.CAFÉ DE FRANCE Low-key boîte on high-profile Park Avenue shuns the weighty and complicated for traditional and simple cuisine not sauced into submission. Classics like escar-gots a l’ail and French onion soup are textbook renditions, while Bloody Mary bisque is an airy, though scorching, starter. To finish: chocolate souffle and profiteroles. 526 S. Park Ave., Winter Park, 407-647-1869. $$$$. French.CHEZ VINCENT Housed along the spiffed-up streetscape in a happening enclave west of Park Avenue, the 15-table Chez Vincent serves seduc-tive French cuisine in a casual, cosmopolitan atmosphere. It’s a strong contender among the area’s finest. 533 W. New England Ave., Winter Park, 407-599-2929. $$$. Café/Bistro, French.CIRCA 1926 There’s good chemistry in the kitchen of this attractive Park Avenue boîte which is known for its consistent and creatively plated dishes. Take the après-meal affair upstairs to the slick SoBe-style lounge. 358 N. Park Ave., Winter Park, 407-637-5903. $$$$. American, Café/Bistro.★ COLDSTONE CREAMERY Drawing crowds of the lactose-tolerant who snap it up when servers slap great heaps of ice cream directly onto a refrigerated marble counter. Then they’ll fold in any number of additions, from fruit to candy bars to gummy bears. 601 N. Orlando Ave., Winter Park, 407-539-1644. $. Sweets.DEXTER’S OF WINTER PARK This Dexter’s attracts a strong yup contingent. There’s an excellent Sunday brunch with cheap Bloody Marys and champagne cocktails. Keep an eye on the open kitchen from the central bar for people-watching that’s interesting on both sides. 558 W. New England Ave., Suite 100, Winter Park, 407-629-1150. $$. American, Café/Bistro, Wine.DRAKE’S BAR AT BOATHOUSE This bar is part of Boathouse Restaurant, but it has its own 1930s-era flair. Live music, entertainment and food and drink specials make it a weekend hot-spot. Drinks are stiff and the burgers are worth the $10 price tag. 565 W. Fairbanks Ave., Winter Park, 407-513-4815. $$$. American.EDEN BAR AT THE ENZIAN The Enzian is in a class by itself. The main attraction is the lineup of indie and offbeat flicks, combined with an impressive menu and a full beer and wine list. The al fresco Eden Bar is a new addition this fall, and a good place to grab a cocktail before

the show. 1300 S. Orlando Ave., Maitland, 407-629-1088. $$.ENZIAN THEATER Food and film: It’s an odd combination, but it works, even if there are a few interruptions while watching the movie. Order staples like buttered popcorn, soft pretzels or chocolate-chip cookies, or get fancy with creative starters and sandwiches (including a good vegetarian selection). Desserts are heav-enly and the wait staff sweats the details. 1300 S. Orlando Ave., Maitland, 407-629-0054. $$. American.EUROPOL POLISH DELI Neither the plain storefront (home of the former Warzawa), bur-ied in the plaza at the juncture of Aloma Avenue and State Road 436, nor the spare shotgun inte-rior indicates the wealth of stock inside: frozen homemade pierogi, fresh rye bread, Polish but-ter and a dozen kinds of sausage. 3090 Aloma Ave., Winter Park, 407-678-0909. $. Eastern European, Polish.FAMOUS PHIL’S CHEESESTEAKS It’s all things Philadelphia at Phil’s, but the cheese steaks don’t quite live up to that heritage; they’re good, not great. We can’t say the same about the hoagies or the side dishes, so follow the crowd and stick to the cheese steaks. 7542 University Blvd., Winter Park, 407-677-8325. $. Deli/Sandwiches.★ FIDDLER’S GREEN Draft ales, lagers and stouts, plus traditional Irish fare (corned beef and cabbage) and more ambitious offerings such as grilled salmon with champagne sauce. This pub proves that a focus on flavor, presenta-tion and service can spell “gourmet” for Irish cuisine. 544 W. Fairbanks Ave., Winter Park, 407-645-2050. $. Irish.FLEMING’S STEAKHOUSE Paul Fleming, the “P.F.” in P.F. Chang’s, brings another high-end steakhouse to Winter Park, with an emphasis on wine. Typically wood and leather in styling, Fleming’s offers aged, hand-cut beef in huge, thick-as-a-brick servings and family-style side dishes, giant seafood entrees and enormous desserts. Big and beefy. 933 N. Orlando Ave., Winter Park, 407-699-9463. $$$$. American, Steak.★ FOUR RIVERS SMOKEHOUSE It’s all about the ridiculously good smoked-to-perfection Angus beef brisket at this Texas-style smokehouse – just be prepared to wait in the ever-present line. Heady sides set this barbecue joint apart from the rest: smoked corn relish, sweet and meaty baked beans, and cream-cheese-stuffed jalapenos wrapped in bacon. Parking can be tough to find. 2103 W. Fairbanks Ave., Winter Park, 407-474-8377. $$. American, Barbecue.FUJI SUSHI Simple, subdued and tasteful setting to enjoy some of the most sumptuous sushi in the Winter Park area. Named after local points of interest, items include the “Orlando Magic roll” prepared with soft-shell crab and chopped vegetables, and the “Lee Road roll” with eel and salmon skin. They pay attention to detail, and it shows. 1449 Lee Road, Winter Park, 407-645-1299. $$. Japanese/Sushi.GEORGE’S GOURMET COOKIES George has been making more than a dozen kinds of decadent cookies, as well as ultra thick brown-ies and dessert bars, since 1989. Each cookie is about the size of a saucer, loaded with things like dark gourmet chocolate, fresh-roasted pea-nuts, sweet cranberries and whole cherries. The shop also offers sandwiches, soups and drool-inducing gift baskets. 947 Orange Ave., Winter Park, 407-628-4491. $. Bakery, Sweets.GIOVANNI’S Chain operated by three brothers from New York is bright and immacu-late, with comfy booths and a family atmo-sphere. For heartier appetites, the paglia e fieno papalina combines green and white pasta with ham, mushrooms and peas in a creamy tomato sauce. 1915 Aloma Ave., Winter Park,

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407-673-8800. $$. Italian, Pizza.GIZMO SUSHI Gizmo makes a wide variety of well-constructed rolls. The location doesn’t justify the prices, but the food does, and the Korean ownership of the restaurant means some atypical selections. A decent selection of noodles, rice bowls and grilled dishes rounds out the menu. A comfortable hang. 110 S. Semoran Blvd., Winter Park, 407-677-5800. $$. Japanese/Sushi.GREEN LEMON CAFÉ Quaint café specializes in crepes of both the sweet and savory kind. Pesto-heavy chicken Florentine is a fave, while turkey and brie with green apple slices is a more subtle offering. The absence of crepes suzette is disappointing, but there’s plenty to assuage your sugar cravings. A brunch menu is offered week-end mornings. 1945 Aloma Ave., Winter Park, 407-673-0225. $. Deli/Sandwiches, French.GURTZBERRY The digs (love the teacup chairs) are as pacifying as a spoonful of green-tea fro-yo; tart swirls of organic chocolate are equally fulfilling, even with just 11 grams of sugar per 4-ounce serving. Sugary cereals and chocolate chips can sweeten things up, but for the health-conscious, fruit toppings are also available. Also on offer are frappes, smoothies and fresh-squeezed juices. 124 E. Morse Blvd., Winter Park, 407-951-8039. $.HANNIBAL’S ON THE SQUARE The decor is swanky and gorgeous and the bar features one of the better Scotch selections in town; a Macallan 33-year-old single malt (at $70 a shot) is a rare find. 511 W. New England Ave., Winter Park, 407-629-4865. American.HOLLY & DOLLY’S Twins Holly and Dolly add a taste of the familiar to their Cheers-like hangout, with its cold brews and TV sports. But the menu goes beyond bar fare with items like grilled grouper with veggies and rice pilaf, and tuna steaks cooked as rare as you like them. 500 E. Semoran Blvd., Casselberry, 407-834-0069. $$. American, Seafood.HOT OLIVES This stylish-but-cozy Hannibal Square eatery continues its evolution toward upscale fusion with an expanded menu, high-lights of which include mouth-watering spicy fried olive‚ appetizers and a variety of tender fish entrees. Trust your waiter’s informed sugges-tions and you almost can’t go wrong. 601 New York Ave., Winter Park, 407-629-1030. $$$. American, Continental, Mediterranean.HOUSE OF KABOB Inside the generic but sunny interior lies an adventure into Persian fast food: skewered meats. The grilled Middle Eastern staple comes in beef, chicken and fish varieties that can be made into sandwiches and salads or ordered as a platter with saffron rice and shiraz salad. Lemony sumac is one of the spices that gently infuse everything with rich flavor. 360 W. Fairbanks Ave., Winter Park, 407-645-0413. $$. Middle Eastern, Persian.HILLSTONE A limited menu tries to compen-

sate with huge portions, especially the salads and desserts. Pork ribs, steaks, chicken and a fish of the day, all served in a wood-accented, masculine setting with a lake view from every seat. 215 S. Orlando Ave., Winter Park, 407-740-4005. $$$. American, Barbecue, Steak.JEREMIAH’S ORIGINAL ITALIAN ICE It’s like a sorbet only more slushy. It’s not a snow cone, although it does come in a cup, in not-too-sweet and refreshing flavors such as mango, kiwi, tangerine, watermelon, red rasp-berry and passionfruit. Whatever you call it, it’s different and delicious. 6864 Aloma Ave., Winter Park, 407-679-2665. $. Sweets.★ KAPPY’S SUBMARINES Downscale landmark near the Enzian Theater dishes out ’50s-style classics: Philly cheese steaks, onion rings, hot dogs and root-beer floats. There’s no carhop service these days, but there’s a sliver of counter space inside; hop up on a swiveling stool and stuff your face. 501 N. Orlando Ave., Maitland, 407-647-9099. $. Deli/Sandwiches, Diner, Hot Dogs.KEKÉ’S BREAKFAST CAFÉ Offering a modern twist on the classic American diner, this daytime café makes an impression with breakfast basics and griddled goodies. The health-conscious will enjoy the breakfast “salad” – a honeyed yogurt-granola – fruit concoction. Burgers are first-rate options for lunch; be wary of staid fries and not-crispy onion rings. 345 W. Fairbanks Ave., Winter Park, 407-802-4242. $$. BreakfastKELLER’S REAL SMOKED BAR-B-Q Todd Keller has pulled the recipes of his father (of Fat Boys fame) out of lockdown to bring his authentic barbecue to Winter Park. The meats – chicken, pork and beef – are the star, tender and infused with the flavor of pure blackjack oak. 7756 University Blvd. Winter Park, 407-388-1222. $. American, Barbecue.LA GRANJA Call it Latin American comfort food or call it a carbohydrate curse: Spicy beef, chicken and pork are accompanied by hefty helpings of rice, beans and french fries. The meat’s the star of the meal; skip the bland sides. 490 N. Semoran Blvd., Winter Park, 407-677-0001. $. Latin American.LACOMKA BAKERY & DELI The multicul-tural mix of foods from Russia includes whole smoked herrings so tender that they spread like pate. Potato dumplings and borscht worthy of a stay at the Summer Palace are also served. On your way out, buy a box of Czar Nicholas Royal Tea or take home some meat and cheese blintzes. 2050 Semoran Blvd., Winter Park, 407-677-1101. $$. Eastern European, Russian.★ LOWE’S GOOD EATON SOUL FOOD Southern kitchen in the heart of Eatonville offer-ings with comfort-food standards. Curry chicken and oxtails are satisfying, but the fried chicken, corn bread (arguably the best in the city) and desserts set this joint apart from others. If sweet

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potato pie is available, get two pieces. 429 E. Kennedy Blvd., Maitland, 407-647-7955. $. Caribbean, Diner, Southern.LUMA ON PARK Foodies are hot for the innovative fare at this Park Avenue star. The atmosphere is lively and suitable for large par-ties. There’s a great wine selection and the small plates encourage sharing. Or go for one of the fabulous entrees, such as duck confit with Bing cherry chutney. The exquisite dessert menu stands alone, as does the weekend brunch. 290 S. Park Ave., Winter Park, 407-599-4111. $$$$. American.★ MELLOW MUSHROOM This Atlanta mainstay is expanding throughout the Southeast and this is their first location in Orlando. The quasi-hippie vibe means you can get tofu on your pizza and it still tastes good; a menu of hoagies and superb salads, as well as more

traditional pizzas, make this a chain you don’t have to feel guilty about loving. 2015 Aloma Ave., Winter Park, 407-657-7755. $. Deli/Sandwiches, Pizza, Vegetarian/Vegan.MI TOMATINA PAELLA BAR Hannibal Square tapas bar impresses patrons with its lineup of hot and cold small plates and rice dishes. Mushroom caps stuffed with serrano ham, authentic tortilla con chorizo and vegetar-ian paella full of meaty wild mushrooms spark the palate. A nice selection of Spanish wines and sherries ensures authenticity. 433 W. New England Ave., Winter Park, 321-972-4881. $$. Spanish, Tapas.MIMA’S CUBAN CAFÉ Cozy lunchtime-only café serves up the standards in large portions with big, feisty flavor, but keeps prices in the lightweight class. The traditional Cuban sand-wich doesn’t possess the pizzazz of other menu

items, but the empanadas and tamales are clear winners. 501 N. Orlando Ave., Maitland, 407-647-6006. $. Cuban, Latin American.MOGHUL INDIAN CUISINE Winter Park gets its own Indian restaurant, though don’t expect anything beyond the ordinary. Tried-and-true standards define Moghul’s kitchen, especially superb chicken tikka and seekh kebabs. Ghee-slicked peshawari naan are buttery, nutty and delightfully sweet wonders. Note: Ordering dishes “Indian hot” amounts to infernal. Closed Mondays. 401 N. Semoran Blvd., 407-599-9001. $$. Indian.N. PARK AVE. DELI & MARKET There’s no goulash at this combo deli/convenience store at the lesser-known northern end of Park Avenue in Winter Park, but the owners carry on the tradition of fresh sandwiches and subs that are cheap and tasty. The tabouli is especially hearty and flavorful. And the fries are great. 2161 N. Park Ave., Winter Park, 321-972-4340. $. Deli/Sandwiches, Eastern European.NELORE CHURRASCARIA Park Avenue churrascaria offers up an awesome 40-item salad bar, but it’s the all-you-can-eat-meat extravaganza that packs, ’em in. Our advice: stick to the sirloin cuts (top sirloin and picanha) and avoid the lamb. Consider a pitcher of san-gria to enjoy with your meal. Brazilian desserts are made in-house. 115 E. Lyman Ave., Winter Park, 407-645-1112. $$$$. Latin American, Steak.NEW HARVEST BAKE SHOP Storefront bakery/lunch destination turns out tasty and healthy treats, from early-morning goodies to after-dinner snacks. Open for breakfast and lunch, the prize sandwich selections are layered between all-natural breads. All the baked goods, from flaxseed and sundried-tomato loaves to sticky granola, are made on premises. 6828 Aloma Ave., Winter Park, 407-671-2112. $. Bakery, Deli/Sandwiches, Vegetarian/Vegan.

★ P.F. CHANG’S CHINA BISTRO With its chic trappings and sophisticated service, this chain restaurant at the Winter Park Village alters the concept of Chinese dining. The inno-vative menu forgoes the traditional for unique alternatives such as Chang’s chicken in soothing lettuce wraps‚ and pan-fried Peking dumplings. 436 N. Orlando Ave., Winter Park, 407-622-0188. $$. Chinese.P.R.’S TACO PALACE Typical Tex-Mex fare plus specialties like blackened shrimp fajitas served amid pinatas, beer banners and boozy graffiti. When a train rumbles by, tequila shots sell for $1.75. 499 W. Fairbanks Ave., Winter Park, 407-645-2225. $$. Mexican.PALMANO’S ESPRESSO BAR Feel the flavor of Old Park Avenue at this coffee roastery in a classy storefront. The coffee is meticulously fresh-roasted and packaged by the bean or by the cup; the basics are covered, as well as seasonal specialties to enjoy in the garden. 333 S. Park Ave., Winter Park, 407-647-7520. $. Coffee/Tea.PANERA BREAD See listing in Downtown area. 329 N Park Avenue, Winter Park, 407-645-3939. $. Café/Bistro.PARIS BISTRO Fine French fare comes to the northern end of Park Avenue with a roll call of bistro classics. Canard aux peches, ballotines devolaille and beef burgundy are standout mains, but forgo the too-thin French onion soup. Tableside desserts are a nice touch. Simple wine list leans toward Bordeaux reds and pinot noirs. 216 N. Park Ave., Winter Park, 407-671-4424. $$$. French.PARK AVE. PIZZA & ITALIAN RESTAURANT In this no-frills place, the deliv-ery guy might double as your server. But the pizzas, sold by the slice or the pie, are outstand-ing, with dough hand-tossed before your eyes. Skip the appetizers and salads, but try the baked

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ziti, in a tangy sauce mixed with plenty of ricotta and mozzarella. 119 E. Lyman Ave., Winter Park, 407-599-9199. $$. Italian, Pizza.PARK PLAZA GARDENS This is the place to go for ambitious dishes served in a classy atmo-sphere. Hang out on the sidewalk and check out the beautiful people, sidle up to the intimate bar or go all-out at the patio restaurant in the back. 319 S. Park Ave., Winter Park, 407-645-2475. $$$$. American, Continental.PATSIO’S DINER A particularly good res-taurant to try late at night when your group can’t agree on what to eat. The American fare is well-executed visit after visit, but Greek is what’s interesting here. Standouts include the spanakopita, pastitsio and dolmades. 1419 S. Semoran Blvd., Winter Park, 407-677-8073. $$. Diner, Greek.PIZZERIA VALDIANO The smells will have you drooling at the front door of this casual hangout serving the basics, along with special-ties like pizza gamberetti (shrimp, oil and garlic), Fiorentina (spinach and artichoke) and Valdiano (sausage, pepperoni, meatballs and veggies). The crust is bread-like and crisp at the same time. 510 N. Orlando Ave., Suite 103, Winter Park, 407-628-5333. $. Italian, Pizza.POWER HOUSE CAFÉ in 1970, the simple eatery with an active lunch counter is what used to be called a health-food restaurant. Pitas and salads rule, as does the delicacy that single-handedly revived the blender – the smoothie. 111 E. Lyman Ave., Winter Park, 407-645-3616. $. Middle Eastern, Vegetarian/Vegan.RAN-GETSU Brand new on the Orlando dining scene, this contemporary Japanese restaurant overlooking Lake Lily Park in Maitland special-izes in sushi and robata grill offerings, steaks and more, served up in an upscale setting. Not in the mood for a hearty meal? Have a cocktail in the sophisticated Orchid Lounge and pair it

with lite fare from the bar menu. 901 S. Orlando Ave., 407-345-0044. $$. Japanese/Sushi.RINCON CUBANO CAFETERIA Down-home Cuban cooking awaits those who take the drive down Forsyth Road’s forlorn drag; Maria Alfonso brings her diner to life with a welcoming exuber-ance. Empanadas are a must (if they haven’t sold out); meat-lovers will revel in the steak palomilla, churrasco and pork-topped mofongo. Breakfast and lunch only; closed Sundays. 3327 N. Forsyth Road, Winter Park, 407-679-5600. $. Cuban.ROCCO’S ITALIAN GRILLE A polished yet comfortable interior and a range of regional Italian fare is sure to delight discriminating din-ers with such singularly pleasing dishes as the lombata di vitello alla Milanese, golden-crisp veal Milanese and the frutti di mare. Even simple herb-grilled chicken is impeccably prepared, and desserts, such as creamy tiramisu and dense, milky gelato, are heavenly. 400 S. Orlando Ave., Winter Park, 407-644-7770. $$$$. Italian.ROOSTER’S CLUB N GLOBAL GRILLE Rooster’s international cuisine doesn’t quite pass muster, though what restaurant offer-ing dishes from more than a dozen countries would? You’ll find an array of Mediterranean, Chinese, Thai, Persian, Indian, Italian, American, Jewish and Mexican dishes, and it’s entirely probable to come across a few hits amid the misses. Open daily. Live entertainment nightly. 4270 Aloma Ave., Winter Park, 407-637-5665. $$. International. RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE Weighing in heavily on the masculine side of the top-dollar dining spectrum, the ambience, menu and service here are powerfully delivered. The New Orleans-based chain serves only aged meats from corn-fed Hereford cows – seared on an 1,800-degree grill – so tender a knife isn’t necessary. For expense accounts and special occasions. 610 N. Orlando Ave., Winter Park,

407-622-2444. $$$$. American, Steak.SAZON 436 A humble little joint this is not. Parlor-chic confines coupled with a menu of traditional and Nuevo Latino fare makes this place a winner. Braised short ribs with starchy yautía offers a plateful of comfort. Guava-glazed cheesecake and leche con café go hand-in-hand. 1555 Semoran Blvd., Winter Park, 407-628-9447. $$. Puerto Rican.SEITO SUSHI Immaculate and stylish, this Japanese restaurant is a welcome addition to the sushi scene. The menu is brief and offers all the usual suspects – sushi, sashimi, teriyaki and tempura. Every dish is carefully prepared and gracefully presented. 510 N. Orlando Ave., Suite 104, Winter Park, 407-644-5050. $$. Japanese/Sushi.SEOUL GARDENS You may wince after a bite of pickled radish and tongues might burn after tearing into tangles of fiery kimchi; nostrils will

flare at the peppery blast of the spicy fish broth with clams and tofu. The heat in the kimchi pancake won’t offer much relief, but rice dishes temper the spice, as does refreshing cinnamon tea. 511 E. Horatio Ave., Maitland, 407-599-5199. $$. Korean.SHIPYARD EMPORIUM An energetic, feel-good vibe (along with beer brewed and bread baked in-house) draws the masses to this restaurant-bar-bakery-market. Sandwiches don’t get any better than the pulled pot-roast and Harris Ranch burger. Skip the cloying barbecue chicken flatbread pizza and satisfy your sweet tooth with a mini-cupcake. Parking is limited. 200 W. Fairbanks Ave., Winter Park, 321-274-4045. $. Brewpub/Market.SIAM GARDEN This neat and unassuming place jumps out from the growing competi-tion with a fusion of Indian, Burmese, Laotian, Malaysian and Chinese influenced cuisine. The

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mee krob appetizer is a must: crunchy fried noodles tossed with sweet tamarind-tomato sauce, with shrimp, bean sprouts and green onions. 1111 W. Webster Ave., Winter Park, 407-599-7443. $. Thai.SPICE MODERN STEAKHOUSE Manny Tato’s steakhouse is a magnet for fashionistas, but top-notch fare, like the tender 12-ounce filet, doesn’t take a back seat to the restaurant’s inherent swank. A late-night menu is a draw for famished night owls. 326 S. Park Ave., Winter Park, 407-772-8176. $$$$. Steak.TATAME SAKE LOUNGE Across the street from Rollins College, this active enclave is known for hip DJ nights. Sink into one of the couches or cozy up on a floor mat to sip bubble teas or explore the sake – hot, cold, infused. 223 W. Fairbanks Ave., Winter Park, 407-545-4144. $. Coffee/Tea.THAI PLACE It is always a pleasure to sit at one of the tables in this recently expanded shopping-center spot with dark walls and glit-tery artwork. The food is always as good as you remember: the fragrant tom kha gai; the salad, resplendent with peanut dressing; and the satis-fying choice of chicken, seafood, beef or pork in a variety of sauces, including the sudden-attack variety. 501 N. Orlando Ave., Suite 319, Winter Park, 407-644-8449. $$. Thai.THAI THAI V Thai Thai V is, as the name suggests, is the fifth restaurant in a little chain that has outposts in Cape Canaveral and Cocoa. You’ll find your typical Thai specialities here – pad thais, curries, noodle dishes – as well as a handful of Japanese items and sushi. 525 S. Park Ave., Winter Park, 321-972-9840. $$. Japanese/Thai/Sushi.THAI VILLA Falling into the OK-but-not-great category, Thai Villa offers traditional takes on noodle dishes, curries and main dish variations of stir-fries, combinations of vegetables and

different sauces. If you’re hungry and in the neighborhood, you could do worse. 7355 Aloma Ave., Winter Park, 407-677-8957. $. Thai.★ THE BISTRO ON PARK AVENUE Considering the prime Park Avenue location, it’s natural to expect something beyond the ordi-nary, but there’s nothing special here. If you’re looking for a decent selection of sandwiches and salads, along with a few choices of wine to help while away the time as you perch at a sidewalk table, you’ll do fine. 348 N. Park Ave., Winter Park, 407-539-6520. $$. American, Café/Bistro.THE CHEESECAKE FACTORY Huge, towering interior with a menu that’s almost as large as its portions. More than 30 varieties of cheesecake complement the meal, though it’s OK to pick up a piece at the takeout counter. Wonderful from beginning to end. 520 N. Orlando Ave., Suite 100, Winter Park, 407-644-4220. $$$. American, Sweets.THE PITA PIT It’s a fast-growing restau-rant chain, but there’s something to be said (chewed?) for the fast, fresh menu of pita sand-wiches, salads and sauces that can be accessed until 3 a.m. weeknights and 4 a.m. weekends. At that time of the morning, where else can you load up on alfalfa sprouts covered in tzatziki sauce? 140 W. Fairbanks Ave., Winter Park, 407-478-8688. $. Deli/Sandwiches.THE RAVENOUS PIG Frills are as sophisti-cated as the fare at this Winter Park gastropub. Nantucket Bay scallops in balsamic brown butter and grilled quail with made-in-house sausage underscore talent in the kitchen, as do mains like wonderfully tender porcini-marinated flatiron steak and olive-crusted loin of lamb. Chocoholics will rave over thick chocolate-chili pots de creme. 1234 N. Orange Ave., Winter Park, 407-628-2333. $$$$. American, Brewpub.

THE WINE ROOM ON PARK AVENUE This comfortably dark and cozy wine bar on Winter Park’s main drag offers artisinal cheese “flights” to complement your wines of choice, as well as charcuterie platters, salads, desserts and heartier fare like sandwiches and flatbreads. 270 Park Ave. South, Winter Park, 407-696-9463. $$. Wine bar.TOLLA’S Pushed to the outer edges of the hub of gentrification that’s taking over west Winter Park, this cramped Italian deli and café looks out of place and lacks character on the culinary front. The patio area, full bar and live music are mostly what it has to offer. 240 N. Pennsylvania Ave., Winter Park, 407-628-0068. $$. Deli/Sandwiches, Italian.TOPOS HOT DOGZ-N-PASTRAMI The one-man act at Topos holds down his spot in the Copper Rocket parking lot with wiseacre charm and uncomplicated specialties. The pastrami is sliced thick and topped how you like;every sand-wich is made to order. But the best reason to go is the ridiculously munchable sweet potato fries: double-fried crispy perfection. 118 Lake Ave., Maitland, 407-963-9384. $. Hot Dogs.TRATTORIA TOSCANA Park Avenue trat-toria may not be truly Tuscan, but they do offer good, straightforward Italian fare. Very fresh salmon carpaccio is as much a must as a glass of chianti. For mains, consider a thin-crust pizza or an ultimately rewarding dish of gnocchi alla Sorrentina. Service is impeccable. 521 S. Park Ave., Winter Park, 407-644-0009. $$. Italian.VIRGIN OLIVE MARKET The buzz surround-ing the soups at this neighborhood noshery draws a loyal clientele – try the stuffed bell pepper soup and see. Meticulously prepared salads, pastas and sandwiches underscore the commitment to quality, while assorted baked goods guarantee a sweet ending for all tastes. 807 N. Orange Ave., 407-601-7848. $. Deli/Sandwiches.

★ WAZZABI SUSHI From a bland side street, this oasis of taste beckons with unique decor and ambience. The menu follows suit, with exceptional sushi, teppanyaki and steak. (The cherry blossom filet is a tender delight.) Each choice of seating and dishes will yield a different experience – but all should end with tempura cheesecake. 1408 Gay Road, Winter Park, 407-647-8744. $$$. Japanese/Sushi.WINNIE’S ORIENTAL GARDEN A cut above most Asian restaurants in the area, Winnie’s is contemporary in appearance, with a similarly stylish and eclectic menu. Appetizers range from sushi to crispy calamari with soy vinaigrette, and entrees originate from all over the Pacific Rim. 1346 Orange Ave., Winter Park, 407-629-2111. $$. Chinese.★ WINTER PARK FISH CO. The seafood with a conscience served here will get you hooked. Of particular note: wild coho served with crisp green beans and pearl couscous. Alaskan ling cod makes for gratifying fish and chips, and fresh-out-of-the-fryer hush puppies are sublime all by themselves. Expect long waits. 761 Orange Ave., Winter Park, 407-622-6112. $$. Deli/Sandwiches, Seafood.WRAP PLANET A United Nations of unusual, vegetarian-friendly wraps for breakfast and lunch, as well as smoothies, salads and tacos, without the grease and guilt of fast food. The Bangkok Delight, with shredded chicken, cab-bage slaw, rice, cucumbers and peanut sauce, is a heavy, healthful handful. 127 W. Fairbanks Ave., Winter Park, 407-790-4859. $. American, Deli/Sandwiches, Vegetarian/Vegan.YAE SUSHI This older, more established restaurant doesn’t raise the sushi bar very high. But Yae has lots and lots of rolls, more than you might find in any two other places combined. Some are exotic – those named for sports teams include the “Gator” roll, with tempura gator tail

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– but there are enough that even the sushi-wary will find something to like. 2050 State Road 436, Winter Park, 407-677-1088. $$. Japanese/Sushi.

NORTHALI BABA An oasis of tantalizing flavors. Ali Baba’s Persian entrees include a variety of shish kebabs along with more familiar Greek and Middle Eastern dishes. A buffet is offered at both lunch and dinner, with an especially exotic array on Sundays. 1155 W. State Road 434, Longwood, 407-331-8680. $. Greek, Middle Eastern, Persian.★ AMURA SUSHI BAR A renovation gave an updated look to this downtown establishment hidden away on Church Street. Blissfully undi-minished is the quality of the food – seaweed salad and sushi so fresh they need no adorn-ment (though the elaborate rolls are delicious). 950 Market Promenade Plaza, Lake Mary, 407-936-6001. $$$. Japanese/Sushi.ANNIE PIE’S BAKERY Humongous, coma-inducing cakes and cheesecakes that are not just delicious, but also marvels of construction – the peanut butter explosion cake, layers of fudge brownie, peanut-butter mousse and chocolate cake, weighs in at more than 12 pounds. Closed weekends; cakes available for home delivery. 150 National Place, Suite 140, Longwood, 407-831-7288. $$$. Bakery, Market, Sweets.APPLETON’S CAFÉ Biscuits to bacon, this Lake Mary greasy spoon is down-home to the core. Breakfast is the big draw with crispy country-fried steak and thick, spicy sausage gravy offering bona fide Southern comfort. The coffee, like the kitschy decor, isn’t for the faint of heart 3575 Lake Mary Blvd., Lake Mary, 407-323-7663. $. American, Breakfast, Diner.BAYRIDGE SUSHI A long way from its ex-home in Brooklyn and a long way from down-town Orlando, but a pleasing place for exquisite-quality sushi, with a slightly expensive but con-venient single-piece a la carte menu to sample the art of the chef. 1000 W. SR 434, Longwood, 407-331-0000. $$. Japanese/Sushi.BEARD PAPA’S Osaka-based company’s first Florida outlet is a draw for Japanese tourists, but locals are also catching on. The preservative-free pastries come in three variet-ies – original vanilla, eclair and cookie; the whipped custard filling, not too sweet and made fresh daily, comes in vanilla, chocolate and a daily-changing premium flavor – caramel, green tea or the like. 4922 W. State Road 46, Sanford, 407-322-3456. $. Bakery, Sweets.BISTRO 1501 A pretty room in an away-from-downtown hotel is home to a chef capable of wonders. The food here is worthy of a stand-alone restaurant. The kitchen turns out the freshest fish in interesting ways, and makes a

mean soup from scratch. Orlando Marriott Lake Mary, 1501 International Parkway, Lake Mary, 407-995-1100. $$$. American, Seafood, Steak.CAFÉ ROUGE BISTRO Humble European boîte on bustling First Street in Sanford offers a focused menu of French- and English-inspired bistro fare. Do yourself a favor by ordering the beer-battered fish and chips – you won’t find it any better than this in the greater Orlando area. Open daily for breakfast and lunch. Closed Sunday and Monday for dinner. 129 west 1st street, Sanford, 407-324-7887, $. Café/Bistro, French, American.★ CRESS RESTAURANT Mathematician-turned-chef has the formula for success: fusing traditional and multicultural approaches with organic ingredients. Delicately crisp basil-brie wontons are beautifully executed; the signature salad offers a representative sampling from their garden; and a poma rosa marinara will leave nary a pappardelle on your plate. Desserts need a bit more thought. 103 W. Indiana Ave., DeLand, 386-734-3740. $$$. American.CYPRIANA RESTAURANT An excellent choice for hearty Greek cuisine at reasonable prices in a cheerful, bustling setting. Appetizers include charbroiled octopus with olive oil, garlic and lemon; and kotopita, phyllo pastry layered with chicken, herbs, mushrooms and peppers. Hearty entrees include souvlaki, gyros and rotis-serie chicken. 505 Semoran Blvd., Casselberry, 407-834-8088. $$$. Greek.DEXTER’S OF LAKE MARY The third res-taurant in the Dexter’s family has a bit more of a manufactured feel in its Lake Mary shopping

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plaza location. Still, even without the cool vibe of its other locations, the sophisticated menu is full of the familiar Dexter’s flair for giving comfort-food ingredients an exciting twist in an ambience that’s just right for friends, food and conversation. 950 Market Promenade Ave., Suite 1201, Lake Mary, 407-805-3090. $$$. American, Café/Bistro, Wine.DOM’S PIZZA This place has a recipe that works on all the usuals, as well as specialties like the Drew Garabo, a Philly cheese-steak-and-onion pie. Hot and cold subs, calzones and oven-baked pasta round out the offerings. 5075 Edgewater Drive, 407-298-8998. $. Italian, Pizza.EASTERN PEARL CHINESE RESTAURANT The rotating centers in the dark wood tables serve as a showcase of invention at this wonder of a Chinese restaurant across from the Altamonte Mall. Service is as distinguished as the remarkable contemporary dishes com-ing out of the talented kitchen, such as mango shrimp, crispy beef and shrimp in silken creme sauce. It’s a big step out of the ordinary. 478 E. Altamonte Drive #102, Altamonte Springs, 407-339-8877. $$. Chinese.EFES TURKISH CUISINE Efes does its part to diversify Sanford’s food scene with a healthy dose of Turkish fare served up in a lakeside setting. Grape leaves, kofte kebabs and a grilled bronzini highlight an extensive menu. Choice seats outside fill up fast, so call ahead to reserve them. 550 N. Palmetto Ave., Sanford, 407-323-1911. $$$. Turkish.ENZO’S RESTAURANT ON THE LAKE Beautiful and sophisticated, the lakefront setting is as much of a draw as the culinary excellence of this Longwood mainstay. Along with the buzzing ambience comes service lapses, but the kitchen is always cooking, with Italian delica-cies from shrimp and veal to pasta. 1130 S. Highway 17-92, Longwood, 407-834-9872. $$$. Continental, Italian.FIRST WATCH Offbeat morning fare ranges from a California vegetarian frittata to the mean-est sausage-and-potatoes platter outside of Bavaria. Cheery, with generous portions and a limited lunch menu. Open until 2:30 p.m. 2425 W. State Road 434, Longwood, 407-774-1830. $. American, Breakfast.FISH & CHIPS Small, cozy strip-mall spot is more family dining room than seaside shack. New England, Floridian and Caribbean seafood styles dominate, sometimes with a curry or southeast Asian twist. Traditional fish and chips is golden-brown and tenderly fresh; pan-seared shrimp slathered in red curry is a must-try. 1146 W. State Road 436, Altamonte Springs, 407-862-2262. $$. Indian, Seafood.FIVE GUYS FAMOUS BURGERS AND FRIES Orlando-area beefeaters are just begin-ning to learn what their D.C.-area counterparts have known for a long time: Five Guys makes the best burgers around. The never-frozen, 100-percent-fresh, lean ground-beef patties can

be topped with 15 free toppings such as sauteed mushrooms and A-1 sauce. Skin-on hand-cut fries cry for a splash of vinegar, though you can also get ’em Cajun-style. 229 E. Altamonte Drive, Altamonte Springs, 407-478-6900. $. Hamburgers, Hot Dogs.FRESH ON THE FLY For seafood served with a conscience, look no further, though be wary of possibly unsustainably sourced salmon. The mahi-mahi cheese steak is a delicious take on a Philly standard, while the fish tacos are a healthy lunchtime meal; end with a slice of Key lime pie. Parking can be tough. 1210 S. International Parkway, Lake Mary, 407-878-5808. $. Seafood.GENUINE BISTRO Well-executed dishes and a down-to-earth vibe make this DeBary bistro a genuine draw. Superb starters include killer-fried calamari and steak-and-tomato flatbread; mains, like chicken frangelica and broiled sea bass, are wonderfully comforting. Closed Mondays. 2 S. Charles Richard Beall Blvd., DeBary, 386-320-0217. $$. American, Café/Bistro.GREEN DAY CAFÉ Weighing more on the healthy than the vegetarian side, Green Day is nevertheless quite veggie-friendly. Patrons can opt to global-warm chicken, turkey, tuna or veg wraps on a grill, or make them green by leav-ing out the sauce and cheese. A side of broc-coli crunch, flecked with sunflower seeds and subtly sweetened with raisins, nearly upstages the wraps. 1515 Lee Road, 407-704-7877. $. American, Vegetarian/Vegan.HAMPTON’S DRIVE-IN RESTAURANT Nostalgic drive-in that has stood virtually unchanged since 1957. Brothers Gary and Barry Moore have owned the place since 1980, but still serve the marinated, pressure-cooked fried chicken and award-winning hot dogs that made Hampton’s famous. Dinner fare is familiar comfort food, from meat loaf to liver and onions to chicken-fried steak to homemade pie. 250 International Speedway Blvd., DeLand, 386-734-3860. $. American.HANA SUSHI The Renaissance Shopping Center, where Hana Sushi is located, might be half-empty, but the restaurant’s sushi bar gets remarkably full. The menu features many specialty rolls and plenty of cooked items. It may not be the best Japanese food in town, but dinners are big and the attitude is comfy. 397 E. Altamonte Drive, Altamonte Springs, 407-830-9233. $$. Japanese/Sushi.HARVEY’S BISTRO Harvey’s in Heathrow brings us the same superbly prepared food in a casual, chic atmosphere as the original downtown location, so there’s no reason to miss your favorites from the same great menu. The ambience is light and airy, much like the beauti-ful people who dine here. 7025 County Road 46A, Suite 1001, Heathrow, 407-936-1267. $$$. American, Seafood, Steak.HOLLERBACH’S WILLOW TREE CAFÉ Homey (or gemütlichkeit) gasthaus in Sanford’s historic downtown district offers bier, wursts, spaetzle, strudel and some of the finest sweet

CAFÉ ROUGE BISTRO

BITE

THE MENNELLO MUSEUMOF AMERICAN ART

900 E. Princeton Street • Orlando, Floridawww.mennellomuseum.org

Owned and operated by the City of Orlando.

Albert Paley (1844- ), American, Interlace, 2005, formed and fabricated steel,12 18.5 4 feet. Gift of the Friends of The Mennello Museum of American Art.

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red cabbage you’ll eat, but the talent in the kitchen extends well beyond simply German food: Once a month, the chef serves a haute tasting menu. 205 E. First St., Sanford, 407-321-2204. $$. German.HOME OF THE WEENIE WAGON Dogs are served more than 10 different ways at this strip-mall eatery, along with deadly-delicious daily specials: the potato burger is topped with cheese and a healthy load of fried hash browns, while the pizza puff, a thin sheet of dough loaded with tangy marinara, pepperoni, and mozzarella, is folded and popped in the deep fryer until it comes out golden brown and siz-zling. Not health food, but tasty. 6194 Edgewater Drive, 407-802-4924. $. Hot Dogs.IMPERIAL DYNASTY Reminiscent of Polynesian restaurants of yore, this local incarnation of an award-winning Ormond Beach restaurant serves unexpectedly hot Szechuan and Cantonese food with a marked leaning toward the Western palate. House specials are the best choices. Not disappointing cooking, but not terribly adventurous either. 2045 W. SR 434, Longwood, 407-786-2266. $$. Chinese.JAX 5TH AVE. DELI & ALE Lake Mary out-post of the College Park stalwart serves up unaf-fected, no-nonsense fare. It’s a larger, snazzier version, though with the same sandwich-making skills and wide-ranging beer selection. 951 Greenwood Blvd., Lake Mary, 407-323-3354. Deli/Sandwiches.KELLER’S REAL SMOKED BAR-B-Q Todd Keller has pulled the recipes of his father (of Fat Boys fame) out of lockdown to bring to Altamonte Springs (there are also locations in Lake Mary and Winter Park). The meats – chicken, pork and beef – are the star, tender and infused with the flavor of the pure black jack oak. 280 S. State Road 434, Suite 1047, Altamonte Springs, 407-786-7750. $. American, Barbecue.KOHINOOR The best of the traditional Indian recipes are found among the tandoori selections: dishes prepared slowly, with mild and aromatic herbs, in a clay oven. Service is exceptional. 249 W. State Road 436, Suite 1093, Altamonte Springs, 407-788-6004. $. Indian.KOREA HOUSE The first Korean restaurant in the area remains one of the few outlets for a taste of the Land of the Morning Sun. Abundantly sized dishes are based on the flavors of garlic, ginger, soy and hot pepper, like bulgogi beef marinated in sweet garlic sauce. Eleven side items are included with each meal, includ-ing the cornerstone kimchi. 1155 W. SR 434, Longwood, 407-767-5918. $$. Korean.LASPADA’S ORIGINAL CHEESE STEAKS & HOAGIES The 6-inch steak supreme is a seasoned cheesy mess worth grabbing a fork for; on the cold side, LaSpada’s famous hoagie is a superlatively salty stack of five different meats. Kitschy decor (Rocky posters, Phillies memorabilia) doesn’t make a great sandwich, but it helps while you wait for one. 1010 Lee Road, 407-539-0067. $. American, Deli/Sandwiches.LINE DRIVE BURGERS Neighborhood burger joint offers Lake Mary suburbanites an option other than Checkers or Steak ’n Shake. Fast-food-style burgers are juicy, not greasy, and filling. Crinkle and curly fries can be inconsistent (add your own seasoning) and onion rings over-done. Cross Seminole Trail riders, take note: Hot dogs and brats help fill the void left by Smitty’s closure. 3801 W. Lake Mary Blvd., Lake Mary, 321-363-4954. $. American, Hamburgers.LUIGINO’S PASTA AND STEAK HOUSE Heathrow entrepreneur Jeno Paulucci’s name-sake restaurant presents steaks and pastas prepared with flair and served in a country-club atmosphere with a picturesque view. The food is consistently delicious, and service is impec-cable yet relaxed. 120 International Parkway, Heathrow, 407-333-2847. $$$. Italian, Steak.

MAYERION MYKONOS Small bistro with a bustling, open-air kitchen kicks Greek cuisine to a heavenly level. Owner Dimitros Salivaras provides a taste of the Aegean with generations of family recipes. Do not miss the thallasina skaras, a charbroiled trio of shrimp, octopus and calamari finished with a crisp lemon vinaigrette. 2401 W. State Road 434, Longwood, 407-788-9095. $$. Greek.NAKED PIZZA “Healthy” and “pizza” rarely go hand-in-hand, but in Naked Pizza’s case, diners can scarf down cheesy pies that not only taste great, but leave you without the incapacitating heartburn, weighted gut or post-meal guilt. The veggie-loaded, thin-crust Superbiotic was a favorite, as was the Sonoran, with its blend of chicken and fire-roasted peppers. Takeout/delivery only. 931 North S.R. 434, Altamonte Springs, 321-972-9890. $. Pizza, Vegetarian/Vegan.NICO GLOBOS EUROPEAN EATERY Lake Mary’s dining scene gets a boost from this quaint European restaurant with impressive ambience and food to match. Menus change nightly, and you won’t find this sort of seasonal focus or devotion to market-fresh ingredients in many other area establishments. When they’re available, don’t miss the mushroom and gruyère tart or the caramel apple crumble, made in-house. 124 N. Fourth St., Lake Mary, 407-878-5804. $$$. Continental, Mediterranean.OH! QUE BUENO A small Colombian café that specializes in protein: meat, chicken, sausages, seafood. And unless you count rice, corn and red beans, not a veggie in the place. The car-niceria offers authentic traditional dishes done well, as well as enormous combination plates of beef, pork, sausage and the occasional egg. 1125 S. Semoran Blvd., 407-447-5026. $. Latin American.OMAHA STEAKHOUSE The latest entry in the crowded steakhouse market trades on the established name built by this retail and mail-order meat giant. The steaks are good – espe-cially the filet mignon – the sides are an aside, and the desserts are otherworldly (cheesecake is a must-try). But the same could be said of most Orlando-area steak houses, all of which are easier to find. 225 E. Altamonte Drive, Altamonte Springs, 407-571-3458. $$$. American, Steak.PANERA BREAD See listing in Downtown area. 696 East Altamonte Drive, Altamonte Springs, (407) 332-7600. $. Café/Bistro.POLONIA POLISH RESTAURANT Diners with bored palates will find new things to revive appetites at this highly traditional Polish res-taurant. Cold cuts imported from Chicago and homemade desserts bracket slow-cooked stews and crispy potato pancakes; many dishes are prepared from family recipes. 750 S. Highway 17-92, Longwood, 407-331-1933. Eastern European, Polish.RHINO SUBS The high point of this new endeavor from the experienced owner of Straub’s Seafood is fresh, hot bread right from the oven. Step up to the window and order steamy varieties like the “Explorer” with smoked turkey, sauteed mushrooms and Swiss cheese, or the “Outfitter” with roast beef, ham and turkey. 805 Lee Road, 407-647-9950. $. Deli/Sandwiches.ROLANDO’S CUBAN RESTAURANT The best Cuban on the east side, with a dressed-up atmosphere and pro staff. The food is delicious, showcasing a bounty of game and seafood, such as the snapper topped with onions and bell peppers. Dessert choices also abound. 870 Semoran Blvd., Casselberry, 407-767-9677. $$. Cuban.RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE Weighing in heavily on the masculine side of the top-dollar dining spectrum, the ambience, menu and service here are powerfully delivered with excellence. The New Orleans-based chain serves only aged meats from corn-fed Hereford cows

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– seared on an 1,800-degree grill – so tender a knife isn’t necessary. For expense accounts and special occasions. 80 Colonial Center Parkway, Lake Mary, 407-804-8220. $$$$. American, Steak.SANFORD WINE COMPANY This temple to fermentation is as friendly to the diehard Mondavian as it is to the most urbane oenophile. SWC forgoes so-chic seared-tuna appetizers in favor of snappy bratwursts and meaty burg-ers, and the knowledgeable wait staff can pair a camembert with the perfect cabernet. 114 S. Palmetto Ave., Sanford, 407-302-8620. Wine.SEASONS 52 The concept at this Darden test kitchen is fresh seasonal food, which means that a favorite dish made with pears from Oregon might not be available the next visit. But there will be something as impressive. The kitchen delivers satisfying and occasionally unusual combinations of regional and global ingredients, and even when they fall short the food is enjoy-able. 463 E. Altamonte Drive, Altamonte Springs, 407-767-1252. $$$. American, Vegetarian/Vegan.SHULA’S 347 GRILL Part sports bar, part trendy steakhouse, this hotel restaurant scores big with a small selection of steaks and fresh seafood. The scene and clamor may not suit all tastes, but the cowboy steak, a 16-ounce bone-in ribeye, certainly will. Same goes for the grouper, simply grilled and served with balsamic-drizzled asparagus and smashed pota-toes. Convert the score with vanilla-bean crème brûlée. 2974 International Parkway, Lake Mary, 407-531-3567. $$$$. American, Steak.STEFANO’S TRATTORIA Stefano LaCommare’s unique brand of gregarious affa-bility and made-from-scratch Italian specialties has drawn a loyal following to his eponymous trattoria in Winter Springs, just as it did previ-ously in Winter Park and downtown Orlando. The place gets packed so expect lengthy waits

and service miscues, though any indiscretions are forgotten after the first bite. 1425 Tuskawilla Road, Unit 205, Winter Springs, 407-659-0101. $$$. Italian.STONEWOOD GRILL & TAVERN Part of the allure of this popular neighborhood tavern is its rustic elegance – stacked stone walls, rich wood tables and high-backed booths. A mainly meat-lover’s menu specializes in meats smoked over an oak-wood grill. Service couldn’t be friendlier. 1210 International Parkway, Suite 146, Heathrow, 407-333-3292. $$$. American, Steak.TASTE OF JAMAICA RESTAURANT Little corner shop serving Jamaican goodies like curried goat, cow foot and that singular Island cuisine, jerk chicken. The chicken is tender and flavorful all the way through, with a smoky aftertaste and tantalizing dark color; the heat of Scotch bonnet peppers is more warm and earthy than painful, the way jerk should be. 6406 N. Orange Blossom Trail, 407-298-5866. $. Caribbean.TERRAMIA WINEBAR/TRATTORIA A wonderfully varied antipasto that seems to go on forever is your introduction to the beautiful excess practiced at Rosario Spagnolo’s latest hot spot. The aura of luxury extends to tasty entrees and desserts served by a wait staff whose attentiveness borders on the absurd. 1185 S. Spring Center Blvd., Altamonte Springs, 407-774-8466. $$$. Italian.THAI BASIL Another suburban spinoff of sorts from Thai House, this tasty and tastefully deco-rated oasis for Thai in Winter Springs stakes out new territory for Thai cuisine. The green papaya salad and pad thai are particularly memorable. 5800 Red Bug Lake Road, Winter Springs, 407-699-8889. $. Thai.THAI CUISINE A former Asian market that retains its no-frills atmosphere while serving

authentic Thai food at good prices. Spicy red curries and barbecued meats from northeastern Thailand are featured, but the more familiar basil-loaded dishes and green curries from the rest of the country are on the menu, too. 5325 Edgewater Drive, 407-292-9474. $$. Thai.THE MELTING POT Popular fondue spot where entrees include seafood, beef, chicken and vegetarian options prepared either in cholesterol-free peanut oil or a less traditional, court bouillon‚ seasoned broth. But the real treat is dessert, and the raspberry milk-chocolate fondue. Reservations suggested. 1200 Douglas Ave., Longwood, 407-862-8773. $$$. Fondue.TOOJAY’S DELI Gourmet deli holds its own with regards to tradition, doing justice to chopped liver, matzo-ball soup and cheese blintzes. But the menu opens up to contem-porary palates as well with California turkey wraps, garlic-chicken pasta, omelets and

burgers. Don’t leave without a dessert, like the “banana dream cake.” 515 E. Altamonte Drive, Altamonte Springs, 407-830-1770. $. American, Breakfast, Deli/Sandwiches, Diner.TWO BLONDES AND A SHRIMP Southern-lady staples rub shoulders with fresh Florida seafood and down-home versions of interna-tional cuisine. Sanford’s First Street antique district is the ideal location; the wood-paneled dining room provides an intimate setting, while the large patio is an optimal choice for breezy summer evenings. 112 E. First St., Sanford, 407-688-4745. $$$. Café/Bistro, Seafood, Southern.VINEYARD WINE COMPANY Attractive wine bar-bistro poses a safe bet for date night with a capable, albeit predictable, array of tapas dishes and mains. Crab cakes and drunken bruschetta trump humdrum hummus; wine is taken seriously here, so feel free to solicit

DRAGONFLY MODERN IZKAYA & SUSHI

BITEORLANDO Colonial Marketplaza (407) 894-1718 SOUTHWEST ORLANDO The Marketplace

at Dr. Phillips (407) 355-0340 OCOEE Shoppes of Ocoee (407) 798-2000 EAST ORLANDOWaterford Lakes Town Center (407) 249 9475 ALTAMONTE SPRINGS Palm SpringsShopping Center (407) 830-1770 LAKE MARY Lake Mary Centre (407) 833-0848

T H E H E A R T O F A D E L I SOUL OF A RESTAURANT

30

A LOT CHANGESIN 30 YEARS BUT A

CLASSIC REMAINSTHE SAME.

Smartphone 2011featuringTooJay’s

Classic Corned Beef Sandwich

Polaroid camera 1981featuring TooJay’s Classic Corned

Beef Sandwich

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the opinion of the in-house sommelier. 1140 Townpark Ave., Ste. 1260, Lake Mary, 407-833-9463. $$. American, Café/Bistro, Wine.WOLFY’S ON THE RIVER Sitting right on the shores of the sleepy St. Johns River, Wolfy’s plays its beachy Key West theme to the hilt, yet the vibe is still comfortable without being overbearing. There are plenty of spots inside to enjoy a shot and the live music, as well as a smattering of outdoor tables to sip on a beer and watch the lazy river slip on by. They’ve even got breakfast on the weekends (with mimosas) to soothe weekend-morning hangovers. 530 N. Palmetto Ave., Sanford, 407-322-2150. $. American, Bar food.

EASTANMOL INDIAN RESTAURANT One of the only places to score Indian on the east side of town, Anmol may look drab but the food has flash. Try the coriander-seasoned onion-kulcha flatbread and veggie dishes like the creamy paneer masala. Other entrees include steaming-hot tandooris. 12239 University Blvd., 407-384-8850. $$. Indian.BLACK HAMMOCK FISH CAMP Travel down snaking Oviedo roads to Lake Jessup, walk past the camp’s live gator cage and then set yourself down for some Florida-style seafood that’s best enjoyed fried. 2316 Black Hammock Fish Camp Road, Oviedo, 407-365-1244. $$. American, Seafood.BRIANTO’S ORIGINAL HOAGIES The lads at this sandwich joint bleed Phillies red, and it’s clear they have a passion for cheese steaks and hoagies as well. Cheez Whiz is necessary to off-set the slightly bland cheese steak supreme, but the cheese steak hoagie is well worth the drive to Avalon Park. The cold Liberty Bell hoagie is a meat-lover’s delight and goes well with other Philly staples like Herr’s chips, Hank’s birch beer and chocolaty Tastykakes. 12001 Avalon Lake Drive, 407-382-2667. $. American, Deli/Sandwiches.BRISAS DEL CARIBE Similar to a Cuban menu with roast pork, chicken and fried-plantain staples, homespun Puerto Rican fare differs in its traditional seasonings: garlic, oregano and vinegar. Waiters take great pains to welcome newcomers, and the food, served in heap-ing portions, is as inviting as a home-cooked meal. 5773 Curry Ford Road, 407-275-2996. $. Cuban, Puerto Rican.★ BUFFALO WILD WINGS GRILL & BAR See listing in Winter Park area. 504 N Alafaya Trail, (407) 737-8880. $. Bar food. CAFÉ ITALIANO This vintage, family-run Italian restaurant serves up food with high standards of quality in an atmosphere that’s comfortable on the inside, iffy on the outside. Traditional dishes dominate the menu, with a good selection of sandwiches and pizza, all of which are prepared with the same care the own-ers have been applying for nearly 40 years. 565 N. Semoran Blvd., 407-277-6840. $$. Italian, Pizza.CEDAR HALAL FOOD & DELI UCF-area café-deli caters to a diverse clientele, many of whom come for the all-halal menu and cut-rate prices. Don’t pass up the amazing hummus, though fat kibbeh make worthy starters, too. Spit-fired shawarmas and gyros keep the college set content, and meaty platters offer more bang for your buck. End with Turkish coffee and bak-lava fragrant with orange-blossom water. Closed Sundays. 12100 E Colonial Dr, 407-381-8004. $. Middle Eastern, Vegetarian/Vegan.CHOO CHOO CHURROS From empanadas to authentic open-grilled steaks, this is a good but unpretentious Argentine steak house in the shadow of the East-West Expressway. Order a delicious mixed-meat grill from parts of the beast that some people, even carnivores, would rather not think about. Chicken and fish dishes

are first-rate as well. 5810 Lake Underhill Road, 407-382-6001. $$. Argentine, Latin American, Steak.CHUBBY’S FAMILY RESTAURANT The smell of bacon wafts out of the front door at Chubby’s, where breakfast is the main meal. Try Sherry’s skillet: crispy potatoes, sauteed onions, savory sausage, two eggs, cheddar cheese and white sausage gravy. For lunch, there are burg-ers, sandwiches, salads and side dishes ranging from fried okra to Spam. 10376 E. Colonial Drive, 407-380-6006. $. Breakfast, Diner.EL CORRAL POLLOS A LA BRASA UCF-area joint does rotisserie chicken right and cheap. Succulent combos can be had for less than $9, but don’t overlook their comforting estofado beef stew or traditional arroz con pollo. Crispy fried empanadas alone are worth the visit, and creamy tumbao (fruit drinks) are an absolute must. 3900 N. Alafaya Trail, 407-382-0199. $. Latin American.FALAFEL CAFÉ The humble chickpea takes on hearty new dimensions when it’s served up at Falafel Café, across from the University of Central Florida. If you’re in the mood for rustic Middle Eastern cooking, you’ll find it, from crispy falafel and kibbeh to creamy hummus and baba ghanoush. 12140 Collegiate Way, Suite 175, 407-382-6600. $$. Greek, Middle Eastern.★ GARIBALDI’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT A place for genuine Mexican food (along with some authentic folk songs). There are more than 30 different combination platters of tacos, burritos and enchiladas, along with chiles rellenos and chalupas. The fajitas Garibaldi adds chorizo sausage to a combination of chicken and beef on a sizzling iron pan. 929 N. Semoran Blvd., 407-275-5035. $$. Mexican.GIOVANNI’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT & PIZZERIA One of five in the chain operated by three brothers from New York. Bright and immaculate, with comfy booths, a family atmo-sphere and reasonable prices. All the traditional touchstones are on the menu – pastas, sauces, pizzas, sandwiches, seafood, steaks – and daily upscale specials keep the mix fresh. 4250 Alafaya Trail, Oviedo, 407-359-5900. $$. Italian, Pizza.HOT DOG HEAVEN The setting’s not pretty but that doesn’t keep hordes of red-hot lovers from feasting on the three dozen varieties of Vienna Beef dogs, which are consumed out-doors, under the landmark neon sign. Hot fries and cold root-beer floats make good accompani-ments. 5355 E. Colonial Drive, 407-282-5746. $. American, Deli/Sandwiches, Hot Dogs.JOE’S CRAB SHACK As tacky as a tourist, this colorfully cluttered seafood outlet churns out a plentiful spread of ocean fare, specializing

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in crabs, crabs and more crabs. Everything is safely fried, steamed, grilled or broiled, with little in the way to mess things up. The lines extend to the parking lot. 4601 S. Semoran Blvd., 407-658-9299. $$. Seafood.LAZY MOON PIZZA While beer geeks swear by Rossi’s – both for brew and pizza – this East Orlando spot holds its own as a haven for the anti-Budweiser legions who don’t want to trek down to OBT for a slice and suds. A wide selec-tion of niche imports (a Wittekerke is perfect with pizza) and microbrews are stocked in their cooler. 12269 University Blvd., 407-658-2396. $. Pizza.LOUIE & MARIA’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT Sit-down restaurant with great pizzas, wonderful eggplant parmigiana, and slightly more unusual items like grouper in lemon cream sauce and dark, wine-laden chicken marsala. You’ll have to wait, even if it’s takeout, but it’s worth it. 9728 E. Colonial Drive, 407-277-7755. $$. Italian, Pizza.MAMA MILLIE’S Millie Parker’s jammin’ joint appeals to Carib expats and UCF students alike thanks to the best jerk chicken in town, a luxuri-ant goat curry and a quartet of vegan choices. Bashy wraps and combo bowls will appeal to those on the go. If the chocolate festival is avail-able, grab yourself an order. Meals are served until 10 p.m. 12273 University Blvd., 407-382-3570. $. Caribbean, Vegetarian/Vegan.MARIA BONITA Authentic cuisine from the Sierra Madre mountains is the highlight at this Mexican eatery. Fresh ingredients, attention from the kitchen and simple but flavorful dishes create a menu where everything is worth a taste. Cuban and vegetarian specialties round out the selections. 10615 E. Colonial Drive, 407-282-1411. $. Mexican.★ MELLOW MUSHROOM See listing in Winter Park Area region. 11680 E. Colonial Drive., 407-384-4455. $. Bar/Pub, Deli/Sandwiches, Pizza, Vegetarian/Vegan.NATURA COFFEE & TEA Café Britt Costa Rican coffee, a variety of ice-blended espresso drinks and more than 20 teas and tisanes are offset by over-the-top pastries and desserts. The techno-hungry can satisfy their jones with high-speed wireless access from the comfy sofa. 12078 Collegiate Way, 407-482-5000. $. Coffee/Tea, Vegetarian/Vegan.OLYMPIA RESTAURANT Taste the Greek elements – sunshine, earth and sea – that inspire the menu at this elegant if gently worn mainstay, run by the Vasiliadis family since 1979. The deep-fried squid is beautifully pre-sented, and the Hercules platter is an easy way to sample the heartier menu items. 8505 E. Colonial Drive, 407-273-7836. $$$. Greek.PANERA BREAD See listing in Downtown area. 11472 University Blvd., (407) 273-4411. $. Café/Bistro.PEPPINO’S RISTORANTE ITALIANO There’s nothing remotely trendy about this Italian standby, but if you want traditional fare in a familiar atmosphere, it fills the ticket nicely. The pizzas have perfect crusts, with toppings so fresh they make your mouth tingle. 100 Carrigan Ave., Oviedo, 407-365-4774. $$. Italian, Pizza.PU YI Shopping-plaza eatery offers good Chinese, modest prices, fast service and excel-lent soups. Pricier dinner menu offers items such as lobster-sizzling wok bar. But a lunchtime quart of the shrimp fried rice is so packed with fresh shrimp, it’s practically a steal. 10169 University Blvd., 407-678-8188. $. Chinese.★ ROYAL THAI As Thai restaurants continue to pop up around town, Royal Thai stands out for originality and attention to detail. The humble restaurant resembles a cool, dimly lit garden cottage, but the chef’s special touches – even in simple dishes like param – make this a worthy destination for sophisticated classics. 1202 N. Semoran Blvd., 407-275-0776. $$. Thai.

SAIGON FLAVORS Former Viet Garden owner Charlie Tang brings an upscale brand of Vietnamese cuisine to Oviedo. Fourteen varieties of pho anchor a menu rich with delicious spring and summer rolls, vermicelli dishes and chef’s specials, including sublime sweet-and-sour fish soup. To end, both mild flan and fried banana flambé gratify. 3573 Aloma Ave., Oviedo, 407-951-8818. $$. Vietnamese.SILVER MINE SUBS Don’t expect anything groundbreaking, just the standard sub-shop fare: hot or cold sandwiches, soups and salads. Delivery service until 3 a.m. and free Wi-Fi are the only unique offerings here. 12219 University Blvd., 407-282-4700. $. Deli/Sandwiches.SUSHI POP Don’t let the fuchsia hues and J-pop-themed decor fool you – Sushi Pop takes its fare seriously. Stellar sushi and sashimi complement a variety of rolls, entrees and whimsical desserts flourished with notes of molecular gastronomy (blue cheese powder or liquid nitrogen, anyone?). Sake fans have the privilege of consulting an in-house expert. 310 West Mitchell Hammock Road, Oviedo, 407-542-5975. $$$. Sushi.THAI SINGHA A small storefront restaurant hidden in the maze of the Waterford Town Center shopping miasma, Singha is well worth the search. Typical Thai dishes made atypically, such as pad thai seasoned with slow-simmered sauce or red curry eggplant with alligator meat. Family-run, friendly and worthy of repeat visits. 863 N. Alafaya Trail, 407-382-8201. $. Thai.THE PITA PIT It’s a fast-growing restau-rant chain, but there’s something to be said (chewed?) for the fast, fresh menu of pita sand-wiches, salads and sauces that can be accessed until 3 a.m. weeknights and 4 a.m. weekends. At that time of the morning, where else can you load up on alfalfa sprouts covered in tzatziki sauce? 12140 Collegiate Way, 407-380-2333. Deli/Sandwiches.

SOUTHBAUERN-STUBE A lively German gasthaus setting and menu that is extensive and filling. The moist and tender sauerbraten is a spe-cialty, featuring sliced roast beef with a deep, dark gravy of bay leaves and cloves. But don’t miss the spaetzle, sauerkraut and Black Forest cake. 8015 S. Orange Ave., 407-857-8404. $$. German.BETO’S If you’re looking for good, unusual Mexican food in very large portions at 3 a.m., Beto’s is the place, serving huge portions, shredded steak instead of ground beef and roasted chicken rather than pale imitations. This ain’t no quickie drive-through, but you can’t tell from the prices. 7135 S. Orange Blossom Trail, 407-859-7030. $$. Mexican.BOMBAY CAFÉ This sanctuary of South

Indian fare gives Woodlands a run for its money with infernal vegetarian curries, enormous dosas and comforting flatbreads. Chaats (snacky mixes) offer textural diversity with varying levels of heat. Lunch thalis are available Monday to Sunday. 1137 Doss Ave., 407-240-5151. $. Indian, Vegetarian/Vegan.BOMBAY GRILL Inside one of the city’s most popular Indian grocers sits a grill serving up fresh-from-the-butcher meats at prices that can’t be beat. Grilled lamb chops are sublimely succulent, and plush beef kebabs and flavorful minced lamb are just as exceptional. Veggie samosas notwithstanding, there’s not much here for the meatless crowd. No indoor dining. Closed Mondays. 11301 S Orange Blossom, 407-856-1780. $. Indian.BON APPETIT GRILL There’s dining adven-ture hiding on south OBT, you just have to look for it. Haitian treasures are what we found here, from the heavenly gumbos – callalou with pig’s feet and lambi au noix with conch – to the mem-orable red beans and rice and fried bananas. Be prepared to share your table with another guest – that’s the way they do it. 4534 S. Orange Blossom Trail, 407-857-2434. $. Caribbean.★ BUFFALO WILD WINGS GRILL & BAR See listing in Winter Park area. 1307 East Osceola Parkway, Kissimmee, (407) 348-8900. $. Bar food. BRIO TUSCAN GRILLE With a stylish atmo-sphere and well-executed menus, this Tuscan grill excels at flatbread pizzas and wood-grilled steak. A bakery adds warmth to this bustling eatery at Millenia Mall. Try the Bellini brunch

on weekends. 4200 Conroy Road, The Mall at Millenia, 407-351-8909. $$$. Italian, Pizza, Steak.BUCA DI BEPPO At this kitschy eatery, every-thing is done in a big, Italian way: Every inch of wall space is garishly festooned with memora-bilia, and an army of waiters delivers enormous portions – pizzas as big as countertops, foot-long lasagna. Reservations are essential. Florida Mall, 8001 S. Orange Blossom Trail #1304, 407-859-7844. $$$. Italian, Pizza.CAFÉ MADRID A community gathering ground where citizens come together for food and to engage in a little social, political and cultural discourse. Well-executed Latin staples – Cuban, Spanish and Puerto Rican – are sure to console homesick expats. The multitude of beef, chicken, pork and seafood dishes are tasty, but not particularly vegetarian-friendly. 4502 Curry Ford Rd., 407-281-9491. $$. Cuban, Latin American, Puerto Rican.CHAI THAI The latest entry into the SoDo din-ing scene is also one of its finest. Well-executed Thai staples keep ’em coming back, but the duck dishes stand out. To share, consider the curry trio. Spicy tom yum gai soup and syrupy banana delight are great bookends to the meal. 2447 S. Orange Ave., 407-841-8981. $. Thai.CHINA HUT China and Peru have enjoyed a long-standing diplomatic friendship; now din-ers can benefit from their culinary partnership. While the traditional Chinese fare is less than remarkable, the flavors of Peru shine. Don’t miss the ceviche mixto, tender citrus-marinated seafood served with a handful of toasted corn nuts. 7615 S. Orange Blossom Trail, 407-240-0467. $$. Chinese, Latin American.CRAVE Slick and modern with Asian lean-ings. The standout sushi is what separates this upscale chain from others in the area. Steaks, seafood, soups, salads and pizza are neither exceptional nor lamentable, but coconut cake is worth ordering again and again. A decent wine list has some indecent markups. 4158 Conroy Road, 407-345-8788. $$$. American, French, Japanese/Sushi, Mediterranean.FLORIDA WAFFLE SHOP Millenia-area breakfast joint serves up signature waffles, pancakes, omelets and French toast, in addition to a selection of lunchtime faves, until 3 p.m. The Belgian waffle is properly light and crispy, and versions ranging from granola crunch to strawberries with cream are offered. The French toast is wholly satisfying, but syrup purists will have to bring their own real maple syrup. 4192 Conroy Road, 407-226-1400. $. American, Breakfast, Diner.GOLDEN KRUST Jamaican bakery and grill serves island fare to the masses, most notably patties, those staple semicircles of flaky good-ness. The spicy beef, fish and veggie varieties are decent, though not great. What is great is the curried goat, an exotic dish with fatty pieces of meat lolling in rich, luxuriant gravy. Also worth a try is the braised oxtail and jerk chicken. 7613 S. Orange Blossom Trail, 407-851-9755. $. Caribbean.GREENS AND GRILLE The salads and sand-wiches assembled here are luxurious versions of everyday basics. High standards of quality are apparent in the dressings made from scratch, super-fresh salad ingredients and natural, hormone-free meats grilled to order. Don’t miss the balsamic-braised portobello mushroom or the rich, gooey homemade macaroni and cheese; top off your meal with an adorable mini-cupcake. 4104 Millenia Blvd., 407-770-1407. $. Deli/Sandwiches.KAHUNA GRILL More bar than restaurant, this Hawaiian pub hybrid has some odd mixtures of ingredients. For example, the nachos are deep-fried wonton triangles with boiled baby shrimp, mozzarella, salsa, crushed peanuts, shredded carrots and plum sauce. 13701 S. John Young

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Parkway, 407-858-0445. $$. American, Deli/Sandwiches, Hamburgers, Hawaiian.KHASIYAT Most people come to this humble vegetarian hideaway for the cheap lunch buf-fet – well-stocked with five different curries and an assortment of sweets – but the real star is the selection of savory Indian snacks. Can’t-miss offerings: enormous, not-at-all-greasy dosai masala and addictive bhel puri. Wash it all down with a Limca, the official soft drink of the subcontinent. 852 W. Lancaster Road, 407-888-2147. $. Indian, Vegetarian/Vegan.LOLLICUP COFFEE AND TEA Bubble teas, invented in Taiwan in the 1980s to appeal to school kids, have taken hold in Orlando. Tapioca pearls, or boba, create the illusion of bubbles in the exotic drinks that range from an avocado smoothie to four-color pudding – all distin-guished by the shrink-wrap lid. 8098 S. Orange Blossom Trail, 407-850-2622. $. Coffee/Tea, Japanese/Sushi.MARAYA AT SABRINA’S RESTAURANT As its many devoted fans know, one of the priciest restaurants on the Trail is worth a visit for the fastidiously prepared Mediterranean fare alone. Succulent rack of lamb, rustic chicken soup and a cross-section of Lebanese staples highlight the offerings. 8100 Crystal Clear Lane, 407-856-8155. $$. Lebanese, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern.MCCORMICK & SCHMICK’S If you’re OK with heading over to the Mall at Millenia for fine dining, you won’t be unhappy with the fine selection of fresh seafood at McCormick & Schmick’s. The menu changes daily, depend-ing on what’s available internationally. Pair the exceptional sampler of cold-water oysters with champagne for a classy culinary experi-ence. 4200 Conroy Road, 407-226-6515. $$$. Seafood.MEDITERRANEAN BLUE Familiar South Orlando location has been spruced up a bit and stocked with eco-friendly wares. The menu is deceptively simple, but nearly everything is a winner. The Provence sandwich is a delicious trip across the salty-savory spectrum, and falafel gets extra points for fresh, soft pita and house-made tzatziki sauce. 435 E. Michigan St., 407-422-2583. $. Greek, Mediterranean.MIMI’S CAFÉ Mimi’s looks and feels like a chain, and it is. The decor of the restaurant has a New Orleans theme but not the menu, which is a rambling array – everything from diner fare to pseudo-Asian, although they do serve jamba-laya. But don’t expect an authentic experience, just a full belly for a reasonable price. 4175 Millenia Blvd., 407-370-0333. $$. American.PADRINO’S CUBAN BISTRO Refined Cuban dishes negate the need for a three-hour trip to South Florida – sample the succulent ropa vieja or superbly seasoned picadillo empanadas and you’ll see why. Black bean soup strikes a deli-cate balance of cumin-to-garlic; mahi mahi fuses

Creole spices with a refreshing mango-pineapple chutney. Consider custardy rum-chocolate creme brulee and a shot of café cubano to end. 13586 Village Park Drive, 407-251-5107. $$. Cuban, Latin American.PANERA BREAD See listing in Downtown area. 4200 Conroy Road #253, (407) 248-0811; 1117 Florida Mall Ave., (407) 856-6706; 296 East Michigan St., (407) 481-9880 $. Café/Bistro. POLLOS A LA BRASA MIS AMORES Tiny Florida Mall-area polleria specializes in churning out Peruvian-style rotisserie chicken, but don’t overlook the ceviche or the simple and hearty lomo saltado, a Chinese-Peruvian delicacy. If they’ve got empanadas, don’t hesitate – they sell out fast. Desserts are worthy, especially dulce de leche-laced torta chocolate. 1355 Florida Mall Ave., 407-856-0583. $$. Peruvian.PRIMO Celebrity chef Melissa Kelly brings her organic, locavore philosophy down from Maine and opens Primo in the enormous JW Marriott Orlando. From free-range lamb to homemade sausage, care is taken – and local provenance is listed – with every ingredient, and it pays off on the plate. Prices are in the very high range, but for a special meal Primo beats almost any spot in town. 4040 Central Florida Parkway, 407-393-4444. $$$$. American, Italian, Mediterranean.ROSSI’S Well-loved by spaghetti junkies for nearly 34 years, this south-side dive makes up for its less-than-fancy interior and casual service with hefty, home-style dinners at outrageously low prices. 5919 S. Orange Blossom Trail, 407-855-5755. $. Italian, Pizza.SUSHI HOUSE Shaded lamps and candles plus techno and synth-pop music create a romantic but not cheesy mood, reminiscent of scenes from Lost in Translation. In the sushi, the vegetables and fish are as fresh as prom-ised, but the rolls can be so loose that they fall apart. No matter, as almost everything else is on target. 1311 Florida Mall Ave., 407-812-9767. $$. Japanese/Sushi.TACOS EL RANCHO Neighborhood taqueria offers the established canon of Tex-Mex staples– burritos, enchiladas, quesadillas and tacos – and does them right. Luscious beef tongue tacos cater to adventurous diners, while tacos alpastor offer a taste of Mexico City. Beware enormous chimichangas and burritos – they’re big on flavor and on weight. 4433 Hoffner Ave., 407-438-8777. $. Mexican.★ WOODLANDS Pure vegetarian. Pure delight. Southern Indian delicacies based on hot, spicy, sour and sweet, hitting every part of the tongue with equal splendor. Go straight for the thali (assortment plate) specials for a bit of everything, or savor Tamil specialties like filled-pancake dosai. 6040 S. Orange Blossom Trail, 407-854-3330. $$. Chinese, Indian, Vegetarian/Vegan.

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DISNEYARTIST POINT Disney does it up big, from the size of the plate to the size of the portions to the size of the bill – which, in this case, is justified. Innovative, Northwestern-themed menu offers exotic foods such as sauteed elk sausage. The service and setting are spectacular. Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, 901 W. Timberline Drive, Lake Buena Vista, 407-939-3463. $$$$. American.BOMA - FLAVORS OF AFRICA Tables loaded with spicy African dishes – flavored by unusual and delicious combinations of tama-rind, cumin, cinnamon, hot chilies, cilantro and papaya – invite exploration at the overwhelming

dinner and breakfast buffets in Disney’s colorful, Dark Continent-themed resort hotel. Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, 2901 Osceola Parkway, 407-938-4722. $$$$. African, Vegetarian/Vegan.BONGOS CUBAN CAFÉ Gloria Estefan’s brainchild is superb. The talent in the kitchen is affirmed by preparations like the simple combo of mussels, white fish, calamari, shrimp and lobster in garlic, butter and wine sauces, and pollo asado, a tender half-chicken with a piquant Creole sauce. Downtown Disney West Side, Lake Buena Vista, 407-828-0999. $$$. Cuban, Puerto Rican.CALIFORNIA GRILL Diners atop Disney’s Contemporary Resort have both a panorama of the Magic Kingdom and a clear view of food-preparation stations, leaving no doubt about what takes place there: spice-and-herb magic and perfect presentation. Entrees are heavily influenced by what is fresh and seasonally avail-able, so the menu changes weekly. Disney’s Contemporary Resort, 4600 North World Drive, Lake Buena Vista, 407-939-3463. $$$$. American.CITRICOS Dazzling eatery puts a French focus on its international fare, centered on slow-roast-ed meats. Everything from breads to desserts is exquisite – it’s expensive but worth it. Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, Lake Buena Vista, 407-824-2989. $$$$. Continental, French.COLUMBIA RESTAURANT Celebration outpost of the world-renowned restaurant isn’t perfect, but it’s worth a visit. A lakeside setting provides the backdrop for a host of traditional Spanish and Cuban fare. The famous “1905” salad is largely forgettable – try the croquetas, empanadas or gazpacho instead. The surf and turf is a can’t-miss dish and snapper alicante is marvelous. 649 Front St., Celebration, 407-566-1505. $$$$. Cuban, Latin American, Puerto Rican.

DAKSHIN A Southern Indian haven for lovers of seafood and vegetarian wonders. Lobster curry? You bet, along with delicacies from Goa and Mangalore and a separate dinner menu offering dosas, delicate Indian crepes as fragrant as they are delicious. 12541 State Road 535, Lake Buena Vista, 407-827-9080. $$. Indian.FLYING FISH CAFÉ The service is so superb, it’s like the wait staff anticipates your needs as they serve the creative new American cuisine with a seafood spin. The whimsical atmosphere extends to daily specials that the chef synchro-nizes with what’s in season, but popular demand has won the red snapper in a crisp potato casing permanent menu status. 2102 N. Epcot Resorts Blvd., Lake Buena Vista, 407-939-3463. $$$. American, Seafood.FULTON’S CRAB HOUSE This tourist fish haven at Downtown Disney offers a great view but little else to draw locals. The fish is sometimes overpriced and overcooked, but if you’re set on spending lots of money, you can’t go wrong with the Alaskan crab claws. The chocolate creme brulee is also a treat. 1670 Buena Vista Drive, Downtown Disney Pleasure Island, Lake Buena Vista, 407-934-2628. $$$$. American, Seafood.GHIRARDELLI SODA FOUNTAIN & CHOCOLATE SHOP Gourmet chocolate shop in Downtown Disney Marketplace does wonders for ice cream, with rich, decadent top-pings on specialties like the world famous hot fudge sundae‚ and the ultimate colossal sundae. 1710 E. Buena Vista Drive, Downtown Disney Marketplace, 407-934-8855. $. Sweets.HEMINGWAYS Papa might have spent more time at the bar than in the clean, well-lighted dining rooms, but Hemingways serves well-prepared seafood and steaks with touches of Key West flavor for a good, if a tad expensive, dining experience. 1 Grand Cypress Blvd., Lake

Buena Vista, 407-239-3854. $$$$. American, Seafood, Steak.HOUSE OF BLUES A theme restaurant with the food to back it up, HOB has expanded its menu beyond its Southern traditions. While almost none of the promised ingredients shows up in the seafood gumbo, the pan-seared voo-doo shrimp have a deep, spicy flavor and won-derful mashed potatoes accompany the juicy grilled rosemary chicken. Downtown Disney West Side, Lake Buena Vista, 407-934-2583. $$. American, Breakfast, Southern.INDIA PALACE Immaculate and attractive set-ting, though a bit smaller than the name implies. Delicious and exotic seasonings on beef, lamb or chicken entrees, plus a dozen vegetarian dishes, and an ample and varied eight-item starter. 8530 Palm Parkway, 407-238-2322. $$. Indian.JIKO Pan-African splendor jumps out in this gorgeous restaurant overlooking acres of savan-nah filled with wild animals. The food is steeped in traditions from all over the continent, includ-ing a tasty slow-cooked Moroccan stew and superb flatbread with yogurt and onions baked in open jiko ovens. Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, 2901 Osceola Pkwy., 407-939-3463. $$$$. African.KABOB N’ CURRY The kebabs and curries at this tastefully appointed tourist-area eatery pack a lot of heat, but riches await those who battle the blaze. Gloriously spiced chapli kebabs are worth the drive alone, and nihari’s velvety shanks of beef makes for a truly comforting nosh. 12185 S. Apopka-Vineland Road, 407-238-7684. $. Indian.KIMONOS AT THE WALT DISNEY WORLD SWAN HOTEL Elegance defines this small enclave that best accommodates tables for two. Smart and spare defines the menu, with sushi preparations such as the spider roll, with pieces

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of fried soft-shell crab, and the Kimonos roll, richly flavored by pale pink yellowtail tuna. 1200 Epcot Resorts Blvd., Lake Buena Vista, 407-934-1609. $$$. Japanese/Sushi.KOUZZINA It’s big, bright and boisterous, but Cat Cora’s Greek kitchen is well worth enduring the distractions of dining on Disney property. Rustic roasted pepper and chickpea soup is a worthy starter to a meal that should culminate with the superlative traditional whole fish or perfectly balanced cinnamon-stewed chicken. Wine lovers will revel in the Iron Chef’s own Coranation cabernet. 2101 Epcot Resort Blvd., Mediterranean, Greek, Lake Buena Vista, 407-939-3463. $$$. Greek.LA COQUINA Sunday brunch at La Coquina has been a tradition for 20 years strong. From the moment you climb down the Vegas-looking stairs and walk through an ornate wrought-iron tunnel to enter a dining area that overlooks an idyllic pond, you know you’re in for something special. 1 Grand Cypress Blvd., Hyatt Regency Grand, 407-239-1234. $$$$. American, Breakfast, French.MARKET STREET CAFÉ Retro-modern diner design fits right in with Celebration’s old-days ambience for a meal that is pleasant if not

very exciting. Salads and starters are enormous; the rest of the well-prepared menu is so tradi-tional, you’ll wonder if Mom is in the kitchen. 701 Front St., Celebration, 407-566-1144. $. American, Diner.PARADISO 37 Boisterous restaurant serves up “street food from the Americas.” With a menu that’s safe for most palates, there’s some-thing here for everyone except those looking for serious adventure. The towering display of tequila bottles will mesmerize margarita lovers. 1590 E. Buena Vista Drive, American, Latin American price level: Expensive, 407-934-3702. $$. American, Latin American.PORTOBELLO TRATTORIA With a new look and revamped menu (courtesy of Top Chef Tony Mantuano), Portobello is worth considering making the drive down the interstate. Portobello mushroom served over rosemary-gorgonzola polenta is a memorable starter, and perfectly al dente bucatini punched up with guanciale is pasta done right. To end, take a chance on the biramisu, a beer-based liquid variant of the tra-ditional Italian dessert. Downtown Disney 1650 Buena Vista Drive, Lake Buena Vista, 407-934-8888. $$$. Italian.RAGLAN ROAD IRISH PUB In keeping with its Downtown Disney location, Raglan Road is big, and there’s usually a line to get inside. An inventive Irish menu makes a meal worthwhile, but the live music and plentiful bar seating make it just as rewarding to pull up a stool and have ’em pull a pint. 1640 E. Buena Vista Drive, Lake Buena Vista, 407-938-0300. $$$. Irish.

RAINFOREST CAFÉ Slickly packaged in a lush jungle atmosphere and marked outside by a spewing volcano, Rainforest Café offers casual, familiar fare with clever names. But the merchandising is more impressive than the meal; it’s worth noting that the retail store is just as prominent as the dining room. Downtown Disney Marketplace, 1676 Buena Vista Drive, Lake Buena Vista, 407-827-8500. $$$. American.SANAA Disney’s East African entry at Animal Kingdom Lodge puts Indian flavors on the plates, but it’s exotic-lite, nothing too spicy or challenging. Ordering anything from the tandoor oven – moist chicken, crispy breads – is a wise decision. For dessert, try a pot of French-pressed Kenya coffee and float-off-your-spoon–light chai cream mousse. Disney’s Animal Kingdom 2901 Osceola Parkway, Lake Buena Vista, 407-939-3463. $$$. African.THE PLANTATION ROOM An immaculate but unimpressive New Florida restaurant within the Celebration Hotel, more of a special-occa-sion, dinner-event place than an impulse dine. Good food and good preparation that unfortu-nately miss the goal of a well-manicured dining experience: a spectacular dinner. 700 Bloom

St., Celebration, 407-566-6002. $$$. American, Seafood.TODD ENGLISH’S BLUEZOO Prices won’t make celebrity chef Todd English’s place a weekly destination for most folks, but splurging whenever you can afford to is great way to feel like king of the sea. Ambience and service are pampering and not pretentious, and match up to slap-the-table delectables like the miso-glazed Chilean sea bass and fish grilled simply. Disney’s Dolphin Resort, 1500 Epcot Resorts Blvd., Lake Buena Vista, 407-934-1111. $$$$. Seafood.WOLFGANG PUCK CAFÉ With wild, colorful decor, Puck’s provides a playful atmosphere, surrounding you with tantalizing aromas of fire-roasted pizzas, pastas and grilled fare. But the cuisine ranges from delicious to mediocre, and the loud, bustling setting is not for everyone. Downtown Disney West Side, 1482 E. Buena Vista Drive, Lake Buena Vista, 407-938-9653. $$$. American, Café/Bistro, Pizza.

I-DRIVE/UNIVERSALAASHIRWAD It’s hard to beat the cost and variety of favorite dishes in the daily lunch buf-fet, even if it’s not a quick stop. Dinner is pleas-ant and highlights the Northern Indian cuisine, but this is a strip-mall eatery made for filling up on food, not atmosphere. 5748 International Drive, 407-370-9830. $$. Indian.AGAVE AZUL A cool blue interior belies the

spicy fare served at this trendy taqueria. With 100 brands on hand, tequila is the aperitif of choice, but all good drinks lead to food, and the Tex-Mex dishes served here are done right. Chunky guacamole, the plato grande (a hungry man’s dish of skirt steak, picadillo enchilada and a superb chicken tamale slathered in mole), and the pastel de piña are all recommended, as are reservations. 4750 S. Kirkman Rd., 407-704-6930. $$. Mexican.AMAZONAS LATIN GRILL Meals at this Venezuelan eatery never fail to impress. Most remarkable is how cheap everything is, which may also explain the long line that forms in front of the steam tables at noon. Shredded pork, chicken and beef dishes are always popular, but if you’re willing to wait an extra five minutes, the churrasco is well worth it. 8276 S. John Young Parkway, 407-903-9535. $. Latin American.★ AMURA SUSHI BAR & JAPANESE RESTAURANT A second location for Amura, one that’s pricier and glitzier than the Church Street venue. Stick to the high-quality sushi and sashimi – the rolls are marginal and fare from the kitchen is uninspired. 7786 W. Sand Lake Road, 407-370-0007. $$$. Japanese/Sushi.ANATOLIA Anatolia’s kitchen takes great pride in Turkey’s gastronomical heritage, offering a bill of fare that sets it apart from other restaurants straddling the line between Middle Eastern and Mediterranean. Sublime lamb stew, kebabs and calves’ liver are all stellar. Turkish coffee (or tea) with spectacular baklava is an absolute must. 7600 Dr. Phillips Blvd., 407-352-6766. $$. Turkish.ANTHONY’S COAL FIRED PIZZA “Well-done” means slightly blackened at this Brooklyn-style pizzeria. A simple menu – thin-crust pizza, wings, two sandwich choices – includes quality classics like meatballs, eggplant and broccoli rabe. Pies take just four minutes to bake, and the waitresses are wonderfully cheery. 8301 Turkey Lake Road, 407-363-9466. $$. Pizza.ANTONIO’S RISTORANTE AT SAND LAKE This sister restaurant to Antonio’s Café Downstairs offers Italian deli-style fare such as lasagne di vegetali, pizzas and calzones without the annoyance of shoppers browsing through the aisles for gourmet staples. 7559 W. Sand Lake Road, 407-363-9191. $$. Italian, Pizza.AYOTHAYA THAI CUISINE Forgive the anonymous decor and TV sets, and some pleas-ant surprises await in Ayothaya’s seemingly run-of-the-mill menu. The standard curries and soups are there, but a section of (pricey) fresh fish specialties are worth investigating. Don’t forget to ask about the specials. 7555 W. Sand

Lake Road, 407-345-0040. $$. Seafood, Thai.B.B. KING’S BLUES CLUB, POINTE ORLANDO B.B. King’s is a roomy, functioning live music venue with a dinner theater setup. Great for seeing music if you have a table, chal-lenging if you don’t. Make a reservation. 9101 International Drive, Suite 2230, 407-370-4550. $$$. Barbecue.BAR LOUIE Bar Louie’s fare doesn’t raise the bar, but if you’re looking for tasty food to soak up some booze, there are a host of sponge-worthy items. Small plates, sandwiches, salads, pizzas and burgers complement a slew of cre-ative signature cocktails, wine and beer. Happy hour, from 4-7 p.m., packs ’em in with half-price appetizers and discounted libations. 7335 Sand Lake Road, 407-608-5190. $$. American.BEEWON KOREAN CUISINE Unassuming Dr. Phillips eatery masters Korean cookery with a host of stews, noodles and barbecued offer-ings. Revel in the splendor of bibimbap, a delec-table mélange served in a hot stone pot; luxuri-ate in the heady fumes of table-grilled bulgogi; and savor every salty bite of grilled mackerel. Seriously consider concluding with two scoops of red-bean ice cream. 5100 Dr. Phillips Blvd., 407-601-7788. $$. Korean.★ BEST OF BRITISH PUB I-Drive haunt is longitudinally spacious, with a semicircular bar bisecting the karaoke and dining area up front and the billiards/dart room/arcade in the back. A football motif pervades – the owners wrote to 125 soccer clubs asking for autographed jerseys and memorabilia. Throw in 15 TVs and a pull-down projector screen and you’ve got yourself a haven for armchair hooligans. There’s live music too. 8324 International Drive, 407-264-9189. $$. Brewpub.BICE This Portofino Bay Hotel restaurant plays it safe, serving luxe comfort food at (for Orlando) stratospheric prices. Both the menu and the wine list offer way too many choices, mostly delicious, but none surprising – except the desserts, which are not only unusual but brilliantly prepared. 5601 Universal Blvd., 407-503-1415. $$$$. Continental, Italian.BIG FIN SEAFOOD KITCHEN Enormous seafood house serves the ocean’s gamut, though inconsistency can sometimes spoil the fun. Crab legs and lobster tails are the spe-cialty, but don’t overlook the nice selection of shucked-to-order oysters, clams and mussels. Good service and a soaringly spacious room make a strong impression. 8046 Via Dellagio Way, 407-615-8888. $$$. American, Japanese/Sushi, Seafood.BONEFISH GRILL Yet another entry into the restaurant bazaar that is Sand Lake Road, Bonefish brings moderately priced seafood and a pleasant atmosphere to the table. The bar is popular, and appetizers, like saucy shrimp and mussels Josephine‚ are superb – perhaps better than the multiple-choice fish entrees. 7830 W. Sand Lake Road, 407-355-7707. $$. Seafood.BRAVO CUCINA ITALIANA Enormous chain eatery serves up equal parts kitsch, class and comfort of the Roman variety. Dishes won’t necessarily wow, but the roasted red-pepper cream sauce in the pasta bravo is gratifying, as is zesty chicken scallopini. Pass on overly sweet tiramisu and opt for torta di cioccolata or warm berry cake instead. 7924 Via Dellagio Way, 407-351-5880. $$$. Italian.BUBBALOU’S BODACIOUS BAR-B-QUE Roomier than the original in Winter Park, this second spot has the same siren smell of smoky, sweet meats: pork, chicken, beef, turkey, sau-sage, lamb and, for BBQ rebels, gizzards and livers. At meal times, expect to fight your way to a table. 5818 Conroy Road, 407-295-1212. $. American, Barbecue.★ BUFFALO WILD WINGS GRILL & BAR See listing in Winter Park area. 7004 International Drive, Orlando, (407) 351-6200 . $. Bar food.

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CAFÉ TU TU TANGO Artists work while you eat in what’s essentially a mini-gallery, where the mood is festive, even outrageous, and the service is always impressive. Entree portions are intentionally small; diners are encouraged to order several and swap around the table. 8625 International Drive, 407-248-2222. $$. Café/Bistro, Continental, Tapas.CANTINA LAREDO Tex-Mex fare gets the Dr. Phillips treatment with higher-quality fare at higher prices. Guac prepared tableside is a must; meat-lovers will savor velvety tender carne asada, while vegetarians can get their fill of vibrant spinach enchiladas. Beware tighter waistbands after indulging in filling desserts. 8000 Via Dellagio Way, 407-345-0186. $. Mexican.CAPRICCIO GRILL ITALIAN STEAKHOUSE The midpriced eatery in the Peabody Orlando jumped on the chophouse wagon, serving choice cuts of beef from Ruprecht’s of Chicago. But the overall experi-ence is too ordinary to be worthy of ridiculously high prices. If you must, hit the beef, steer clear of the pasta and charge it to the expense account. Your own dollars can be spent much more wisely elsewhere. 9801 International Drive, 407-352-4000. $$$$. Italian, Steak.CEDAR’S RESTAURANT Their spin on traditional Lebanese food is a lightness of texture and flavor that is both refreshing and inviting. Use the hot, puffy pitas to scoop up baba ghanoush, a smooth roasted eggplant and garlic puree with a wonderfully smoky taste. 7732 W. Sand Lake Road, 407-351-6000. $$$. Lebanese, Middle Eastern.CHARLEY’S STEAK HOUSE This old-school establishment answers traditional meat-eaters’ cravings with some of the best cuts in town. Stick with the steak, though; everything else is just a distraction. 8255 International Drive, 407-363-0228. $$$$. American, Steak.CHRISTINI’S RISTORANTE ITALIANO The menu covers all regional cuisines of Italy, but here you get so much more: attractive ambi-ence, attentive service. The prices can make this a choice for special occasions only, but it doesn’t deter business; reservations are a necessity on weekends. 7600 Dr. Phillips Blvd., 407-345-8770. $$$$. Italian.COPPER CANYON GRILL Honest, hearty American fare, like rotisserie chicken, wood-grilled seafood, homestyle meatloaf and St. Louis-style BBQ ribs dominate the menu at this popular spot in Pointe Orlando. 9101 International Drive., 407-363-3933. $$$. American.CUBA LIBRE A festive Cuban restaurant and rum bar, serving all your favorites: ceviche, ropa vieja, corn cakes and more. Can’t decide what to eat? Try the chef’s tasting menu, featuring 15 items, including appetizers, entrees, sides and desserts, for $39 per person. Pointe Orlando, 9101 International Drive, 407-226-1600. $$$. Cuban.DAVID’S CLUB (AT THE HILTON) Sports bar meets fine dining at this contemporary gastropub. Offering the best in gourmet comfort food such as beer-battered cod and chips with pickled vegetables, charcuterie plates and steak frites, as well as craft beers and an eclectic wine list. 6001 Destination Parkway, 407-313-4300. $$$$. Gastropub/American.DELISH NEW YORK BAKERY It’s widely accepted that the key ingredient to great bagels is New York City tapwater, so the owners brought some to Orlando. Granted, the water comes inside frozen parboiled bagels, but when they’re finished off in the oven, the result is exemplary. A handful of lunchtime bagels are offered, but a wide array of cookies from Long Island’s Silver Lake Cookie Company are the bakery’s bread and butter. 8015 Turkey Lake Road, 407-965-5548. $. American, Bakery, Deli/Sandwiches.

DRAGONFLY MODERN IZAKAYA & SUSHI Dressed to impress, this posh spot’s menu is a swarm of small plates. From spec-tacular sashimi to sublime grilled meats (try the short ribs and yellowtail collar), it’s hard to pick a dish that misses. Consider a swig from their modest sake menu and end with a simple scoop of red-bean ice cream. 8000 W. Sand Lake Road, 407-370-3359. $$$. Japanese/Sushi, Seafood.EMACK & BOLIO’S There’s little grass-roots flavor left in this flashy store filled with Hard Rock memorabilia. Still, the ice creams are the same premium, homemade concoctions (with rock & roll names like Deep Purple Cow and Strawberry Fields Forever) fashioned from hormone-free milk that made the first store a Boston standout. 5800 Universal Blvd., in Hard Rock Hotel, 407-503-2432. $. Sweets.EMERIL’S RESTAURANT ORLANDO There’s much to like about the casual, contem-porary atmosphere, warm and spicy colors, and first-class service. The menu is flawlessly prepared and beautifully presented with items like the andouille-crusted Texas redfish, dressed with roasted-pecan vegetable relish and teamed with shoestring potatoes. 6000 Universal Blvd., CityWalk at Universal Studios, 407-224-2424. $$$$. American, Cajun/Creole.EMERIL’S TCHOUP CHOP It’s the latest place from Emeril Lagasse, so of course it’ll be popular and crowded. Unfortunately, the menu has only small flashes of brilliance surrounded by passable but unimpressive fare, and the service is intrusively attentive without being competent. Go there to dazzle out-of-town visitors. 6300 Hollywood Way, in Royal Pacific Resort, 407-503-2467. $$$. Hawaiian, Pan-Asian, Thai.FAMAS RISTORANTE ITALIANO Rosario Limonio’s enticing dishes prove he’s a star in the making. Whether it’s filet coated with silken cognac-porcini sauce, rosemary-rubbed rack of lamb or four-cheese gnocchi, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a dish unworthy of praise. 5478 Central Florida Parkway, 407-239-9058. $$. Italian.★ FIRST WATCH Offbeat morning fare ranges from a California vegetarian frittata to the meanest sausage-and-potatoes platter outside of Bavaria. Cheery, with generous portions and a limited lunch menu. Open until 2:30 p.m. 7500 Sand Lake Road, 407-363-5622. $. American, Breakfast.FIVE GUYS FAMOUS BURGERS AND FRIES Orlando-area beefeaters are just begin-ning to learn what their D.C.-area counterparts have known for a long time: Five Guys makes the best burgers around. The never-frozen, 100-percent-fresh, lean ground-beef patties can be topped with 15 free toppings such as sauteed mushrooms and A-1 sauce. Skin-on hand-cut fries cry for a splash of vinegar, though you can also get ’em Cajun-style. 3024 W. Sand Lake Road, 407-352-8899. $. Hamburgers, Hot Dogs.FUJI SUSHI West-siders no longer need to travel all the way to Winter Park for some of Central Florida’s best sushi. Sister location to Winter Park’s flagship, you’ll find the same great menu at this Universal/Dr. Phillips location. The famous dynamite and dancing eel rolls are both here, as well as more recent additions like the candy cane‚ roll with red and white tuna, or the polar bear roll with buttery salmon, white tuna, cream cheese and tempura crumbs. 6700 Conroy Road, 407-298-2989. $$$. Japanese/Sushi.G&G THAI If you’re in the southwest sector of town, here’s a spot to fill up on perfectly crafted Thai dishes at reasonable prices. The expansive selection is conducive to trying something new. Highly recommended: the ginger duck and the coconut ice cream. 6700 Conroy Windermere Road, 407-292-5554. $. Thai.GREEK FLAME TAVERNA This transplanted

taverna serves up so-so standards – and far better out-of-the-ordinary items. Kleftico, slices of slow-roasted lamb mixed with veggies and feta baked in parchment, is one such dish, as is kreatopita, a flaky beef-and pine-nut-filled pie, and taramosalata, a fluffy caviar-based spread. Beware desiccated chicken souvlaki and lack-luster spanakopita. 7600 Dr. Phillips Blvd., 407-370-4624. $$$. Greek, Mediterranean.HABIBI FINE LEBANESE CUISINE Neighborly MetroWest eatery delivers the goods for pita enthusiasts and kebabophiles alike. The meat-averse can delight in the vegetarian platter (with smoky babaganoush and lemony grape leaves), but the seasoned sirloin shawarma, fried kibbeh and succulent kebabs provoke prolonged mm-mmms. Limited seating inside. 2451 S. Hiawassee Road, 407-802-4242. $$. Middle Eastern.HANAMIZUKI JAPANESE RESTAURANT Deceptively situated in a bland I-Drive strip

mall, this expensive, elegant sushi restaurant combines minimalist decor with a menu of surprising depth and intrigue to create a flaw-lessly integrated and refreshing experience. 8255 International Drive, 407-363-7200. $$$. Japanese/Sushi.HARD ROCK CAFÉ In a city with so much to see and do, the main attraction for locals as well as tourists is Hard Rock Café Orlando – the biggest HRC in the world. With large, statu-esque pillars, it stands majestically as a Roman Coliseum of rock, and boasts more pieces of rock & roll memorabilia than any other location. The site includes not only a vast, multi-level café, but throw in Hard Rock Live Orlando, a 3,000-person concert/party venue, and you’ve got a winner. Come on down when you wanna rock! 6050 Universal Blvd., 407-351-7625. $$. American/Bar food. JACK’S PLACE (AT ROSEN PLAZA HOTEL) Soft, flattering light from chandeliers enhances sketches of world-class luminaries, many of whom autographed the works that hang on the walls. Entrees range from steak and sea-food to pasta and chicken in this New York-style dining establishment. 9700 International Drive, 407-996-9700. $$$. American, Seafood, Steak.JIMMY BUFFETT’S MARGARITAVILLE When you want to soak up Key West flavor, try a visit to Margaritaville in the heart of glitzy CityWalk. There’s more flash in the colorful atmosphere than in the food at this noisy and crowded spot, but the ocean of margarita varieties might satisfy your drink-and-be-merry craving. Universal’s CityWalk, 6000 Universal Blvd., Suite 704, 407-224-2155. $$. American, Hamburgers.KABBAB HOUSE Meticulously prepared

Moorish meals await lovers of Moroccan fare in MetroWest: Kabbab House offers plenty of grilled meats, tagines, couscous and other tra-ditional North African dishes. Call ahead Fridays and Saturdays, as live music and belly-dancing packs the house. 2423 S. Hiawassee Road, 407-704-7830. $$. African, Mediterranean, Moroccan.KAFE KALIK A Bahamian rhapsody it’s not, but the Carib plates at this colorfully contempo-rary outlet mall restaurant should please shop-hoppers in search of a fast-food alternative. A bowl of fiery conch chowder is a must, though curry crunch sushi rolls are adequate starters as well. 4969 International Drive, 407-248-0889. $$. Caribbean.LATIN QUARTER A Universal-sized tribute to Latin food and drink. Live music – from merengue to Latin rock – nightly. CityWalk at Universal Orlando, 6000 Universal Blvd., Suite 709, 407-224-2806. $$. Argentine, Cuban,

Latin American, Puerto Rican.LEE & RICK’S OYSTER BAR An unfancy place with 50 years of experience. The pound of hot or cold shrimp has a slightly spicy flavor, and the fish-dinner platters come with heaps of fries. But the fresh, sweet oysters (raw or steamed) are the focal point. For the full effect, sit at the bar and settle in with a bucket of them. 5621 Old Winter Garden Road, 407-293-3587. $$. Seafood.MATTEO’S RISTORANTE ITALIANO A pro-saic exterior belies a warm and welcoming din-ing room flaunting enormous platters of Italian favorites served family-style. Bring an appetite and several dinner companions to gorge on chopped salad, superb stuffed mushrooms and baked clams, veal Valdostana and burnt veg-etables; you’ll regret it if you don’t. Valet parking is available but unnecessary. 5350 International Drive, 407-345-4747. $$$. Italian.MEMORIES OF INDIA All regions of India are accounted for at this fancy-but-warm res-taurant tucked away in a plaza. From the coastal regions come seafood dishes such as an excel-lent Goan fish curry. From the northern areas, there are succulent meats cooked tandoor-style. It’s all good. 7625 Turkey Lake Road, 407-370-3277. $$. Indian.MOONFISH Waiting for a bite takes on new meaning in atmospheric entry that baits its hook with fresh fish possibilities and comes up with mostly winners, as long as time is not of the essence in your dining plans. Sushi is immaculately prepared, and the Prince Edward Island mussels in garlic and white wine sauce are alone worthy of a visit. 7525 W. Sand Lake Road, 407-363-7262. $$$. Japanese/Sushi, Seafood.

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N.Y.P.D. PIZZA & DELICATESSEN Multiple Best of Orlando winner for pizza, N.Y.P.D. also serves up a variety of pizzeria staples, from chicken parmigiana to sausage-and-pepper heroes. 2589 S. Hiawassee Road, 407-293-8880. $. Italian, Pizza.NAGOYA SUSHI Tucked away in a MetroWest shopping center, Nagoya Sushi offers creative interpretations of classic Japanese dishes. The brothers Lu make an art of molding rice, slicing paper-thin fish and building wonderful rolls from a wide variety of tastes and colors, while the hot dishes from the kitchen are as good as any. 7600 Dr. Phillips Blvd., #66, 407-248-8558. $$. Japanese/Sushi.NETTO’S CAFÉ Netto specializes in Brazilian gelato – a scoop of the cheese-and-guava (the most popular flavor among Brazilians) is worth the drive alone. Also worth sampling are espresso coffee, roasted coconut, dulce de leche and banana, the latter enhanced with a drizzle of guava syrup. They’re exotic, but don’t let that preclude you from trying the raisin wine, corn or plum-rum flavors. 4550 S. Kirkman Road, 407-290-0991. $. Sweets.OCEAN PRIME There’s plenty of style and swank at this supper club to keep the Sand Lake set happy, but a little more focus in the kitchen and front of the house will make this good restaurant great. Live music can be entertain-ing or bothersome, depending on your mood. 7339 W. Sand Lake Road, 407-781-4880. $$$$. American, Seafood.OCEANAIRE SEAFOOD ROOM A budget-busting bounty of unparalleled freshness awaits seafood lovers at what is arguably Orlando’s finest seafood house. Up to 25 varieties of fish, lobster, crab and mussels, and 12 variet-ies of oysters, are flown in daily from around the world. Family-style sides are available, though not necessary. Save room to share the enormous wedge of caramel brownie. 9101 International Drive, Suite 1002, 407-363-4801. $$$$. Seafood.PASSAGE TO INDIA For more than a decade, this restaurant has been a consistent purveyor of fine Indian food, and its formal atmosphere matches the upscale menu. Sample the range of spices and textures in the appetizer platter, which captures the wonders of the excellent entrees. Service is attentive. 6129 Westwood Blvd., 407-351-3456. $$. Indian.PASTAMORE Energetic Italian is surpris-ingly original for a theme-park restaurant. The menu puts an emphasis on fresh ingredients and smartly offers dishes as small, large or family-style. Service is enthusiastic but erratic. CityWalk at Universal Orlando, 6000 Universal Blvd., 407-224-2244. $$. Italian, Pizza.PIZZA XTREME On the fringes of the tourist sector lies this hard-to-find gem that dishes out some damn decent pie. The sauce is made from scratch, the dough is hand-stretched and tossed, and toppings are cut fresh, resulting in the quintessence of pizza. Stick to the circular pies for better consistency and flavor, and if you’re pinching pennies, there are plenty of specials. 7250 S. Kirkman Road, 407-226-3333. $. Pizza.POINTE ORLANDO This one-stop destina-tion for shopping, lodging, entertainment and dining is home to a selection of crowd-pleasing restaurants, of both the super casual (Johnny Rockets, Hooters) and the fine dining variety (The Capital Grille, Oceanaire Seafood Room). 9101 International Drive, 407-248-2838. $-$$$$. American/Bar food/Steakhouse/Diner/Greek/Seafood/Cuban/Caribbean/Italian/Sweets.POLLO PIO PIO This thrifty stronghold for exquisite rotisserie chicken relies on secret family recipes from Colombia and Peru. The real secret is that when it comes to the simple menu – from beans and rice, to tostones and empanadas, to worship-worthy garlic and jalapeno-habanero sauces – it’s all good. Don’t

skip the flawless flan and tres leches cake. 5752 International Drive, 407-248-6424. $. Latin American.PRESS 101 Dr. Phillips café is equal parts quick-casual sandwich joint and tony wine bar. The outdoor patio fills quickly with wine enthu-siasts and diners in search of French-inspired light fare. Asparagus salad and vegetable soup are some of the many can’t-miss starters, while mango chicken and French dip sandwiches are filling and flavorful. 7600 Dr. Phillips Blvd., 407-351-2101. $. Deli/Sandwiches.PUNJAB INDIAN RESTAURANT Authentic Indian standby on International Drive offers refuge from the bright lights and fast-food fran-chises. They take an excellent tour through the classics – curries, fried puff breads, chutneys, stewed lentils and tasty tandoori dishes like tikka kebab, with char-broiled meat, onions, peppers and tomatoes. 7451 International Drive, 407-352-7887. $$. Indian.Q’KENAN Among the timeshares and hotels on the southern end of I-Drive, this unusual family Venezuelan joint peeks out of the overwhelming fast-food dining scene. It’s part restaurant and part grocery store and there’s not much ambi-ence, but the authentic arepas, empanadas and cachapas are top-rate. Try the mixed mountain grill (parrilla tepui mixta) for a heartier entree. 8117 Vineland Ave., 407-238-0014. $. Latin American.RED BAMBOO Strip-mall dining at its best, Red Bamboo – sort of a cousin to Thai House – turns out top Thai standards and specials at reasonable prices as well as fastidious service. The cooks are masters with spicy seasoning that doesn’t bring on tears. And the wines are care-fully selected to bring out the best in the cuisine. 6803 S. Kirkman Road, 407-226-8997. $$. Thai.ROY’S RESTAURANT Not-so-fancy upscale chain creates a curious fusion of Pacific Rim cuisines, with an emphasis on Hawaiian ingre-dients, like shutome swordfish basted in a Thai curry sauce. The variety of selections extends to both the hit-and-miss menu and the endless wine list. 7760 W. Sand Lake Road, 407-352-4844. $$$$. Hawaiian, Pan-Asian, Seafood.RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE Weighing in heavily on the yang, or masculine, side of the top-dollar dining spectrum, the ambience, menu and service here are powerfully delivered with excellence. The New Orleans-based chain serves only aged meats from corn-fed Hereford cows – seared on an 1,800-degree grill – so tender a knife isn’t necessary. For expense accounts and special occasions. 7501 W. Sand Lake Road, 407-226-3900. $$$$. American, Steak.SAMBA ROOM At Samba Room, romance and conviviality blend with Latin American fusion, which is pleasantly subdued and gracefully carried out. Mostly Spanish, but there are a few twists and turns on the menu that add excitement. 7468 W. Sand Lake Road, 407-226-0550. $$$$. Latin American, Spanish, Steak.SEASONS 52 The concept at this Darden “test kitchen” is fresh seasonal food, which means that a favorite dish made with pears from Oregon might not be available the next visit. But there will be something as impressive. The kitchen delivers satisfying and occasionally unusual combinations of regional and global ingredients, and even when they fall short the food is enjoyable. 7700 Sand Lake Road, 407-354-5212. $$$. American, Vegetarian/Vegan.SHIRAZ GRILL Filet mignon and chicken kebabs steal the show, but perfumed plates of barberry-jeweled pilaf with luxuriant Persian stews are also outstanding. A smoky starter of pureed aubergines drizzled with cream of whey is as dip-worthy as any hummus. Get closure with a glacial orb of syrupy sweet falooda. 6427 Westwood Blvd., Suite 102, 407-284-1273. $$. Middle Eastern.

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9101 International Drive in Pointe Orlando

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SPENCER’S FOR STEAKS AND CHOPS (AT THE HILTON) As its name suggests, this is the place to go for steaks, chops, seafood and other fine-dining favorites. Prime-cut aged beef, free-range chicken, local seafood and local organic produce are on the menu here, as well as a selection of fine wines and cocktails. This is a place not just to eat, but to indulge. 6001 Destination Parkway, 407-313-8625. $$$$. Steakhouse. SUSHI TOMI Unassuming joint is a hidden gem for the city’s sushi cognoscenti, thanks to chef Hidehiko’s exceptional skills. Colorful sun-shine rolls, artistic samurai rolls and wonderfully fatty toro nigiri will have sushi fiends coming back for more. Leaving with the essence of red bean ice cream in your mouth is the way to go. 8463 S. John Young Parkway, 407-352-8635. $$. Japanese/Sushi.SUSHIOLOGY Save dollars by eating cheap but respectable rolls at this I-Drive hole in the wall where nothing is more than $6.50, from the

crunchy California rolls to the messy volcano variety. The store is set up for takeout and delivery; there are a few tables for eating in, but don’t. Grab and go. That’s the beauty. 6400 International Drive, #130, 407-345-0245. $. Japanese/Sushi.SWEET BASIL This place, almost hidden on the far side of Kirkman, presents good regional variations on recognizable Thai themes. Dishes like duck with basil and crispy fish stand out, and even the standard items like pad thai are done well. 8957 International Drive, 407-370-2200. $$. Thai.TABLA BAR & GRILL Shabber Chowdhury raises the bar for Indian cuisine in Orlando with a lengthy menu of inspired Indian-fusion dishes. Chile pakoras trump traditional jalapeno pop-pers; kesari murgh marries homemade pesto and saffron sauce; and lamb do piazza’s heady curry is both assertive and aromatic. Desserts, like toffee pudding cake and chocolate malai kofta, continue the razzle-dazzling. Servers, though well-meaning, can exhibit inexperience. 5827 Caravan Court, 407-248-9400. $$. Indian.TECHNIQUE Don’t be put off by going to an industrial park for dinner. Student chefs at Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts serve up fresh, local fare at Technique. The menu consists of a la carte choices, or three- or the five-course tasting menus. Open for lunch and dinner. 8511 Commodity Circle, 407-313-8792. $$$. American, Café/Bistro.TEXAS DE BRAZIL One price buys overin-dulgence at this richly styled all-you-can-eat Brazilian churrascaria, serving 15 cuts of charcoal-grilled meats on large skewers that are delivered to your table till you tell ’em to stop. The salad bar is a country in itself, with a wealth of fresh vegetables and Latin standbys, as well

as gourmet specialties like shrimp ceviche and artichoke and raisin melange. 5259 International Drive, 407-355-0355. $$$$. Argentine, Latin American, Steak.THE CAPITAL GRILLE You’ll pay dearly for the extraordinary service and posh atmosphere at this chain steakhouse. And you might come away wondering if you ate your money’s worth. The steaks are really good, but the equivalent can be had at many other places in town for a lot less money. Pointe Orlando, 9101 International Drive, 407-370-4392. $$$$. Steak.THE KITCHEN Tucked into the chic Hard Rock Hotel, the Kitchen is designed to look and feel like you’re chowing down in the mansion of a rock star. There’s something for everyone, with kid-friendly amenities and a menu of mostly done-right comfort food. Hard Rock Hotel, 5800 Universal Blvd., 407-503-2430. $$$. American.THE MELTING POT Popular fondue spot where entrees include seafood, beef, chicken and vegetarian options prepared either in cholesterol-free peanut oil or a less traditional

“court bouillon” seasoned broth. But the real treat is dessert, and the raspberry milk-choco-late fondue. Reservations suggested. 7549 W. Sand Lake Road, 407-903-1100. $$$. Fondue.THE PALM The first Palm was opened in New York circa 1926, and the Orlando version features a mixture of fine, uncomplicated dishes and slight near-misses. Steaks are enormous. In a break from standard Universal routine, free valet parking is right at the door. Hard Rock Hotel, 5800 Universal Blvd., 407-503-7256. $$$$. American, Steak.TIMPANO ITALIAN CHOPHOUSE The con-cept is big-city dining with the allure of 1950s New York nightclubs. The result is extraordinary quality and impeccable service. You could get a better veal saltimbocca – thin cutlets served with prosciutto ham and provolone in a subtle garlic and sage sauce – but you’d have to go to Rome to find it. 7488 W. Sand Lake Road, 407-248-0429. $$$. Italian, Steak.TOOJAY’S DELI Gourmet deli holds its own with regards to tradition, doing justice to chopped liver, matzo-ball soup and cheese blin-tzes. But the menu opens up to contemporary palates as well with California turkey wraps, garlic-chicken pasta, omelets and burgers. Don’t leave without a dessert, like the “banana dream cake.” 7600 Dr. Phillips Blvd., #116, 407-355-0340. $. American, Breakfast, Deli/Sandwiches, Diner.VINES GRILLE & WINE BAR Steaks and seafood straight from an open charcoal grill are what you’ll find in a surprisingly intimate spot in the heart of Sand Lake’s restaurant row. The slightly upscale fare includes perfect tenderloins and crunchy flatbread pizzas, and there’s live music nightly. 7563 W. Sand Lake Road, 407-351-1227. $$$$. American, Seafood, Steak.

VITO’S CHOP HOUSE Over-the-top and oversized elegance is the game at this old-style steakhouse with a dark-wood decor and ultra-attentive waiters. The steaks come in gigantic portions and have spectacular flavor. The des-sert tray offers more ridiculously huge choices. 8633 International Drive, 407-354-2467. $$$. American, Steak.

WEST★ BUFFALO WILD WINGS GRILL & BAR See listing in Winter Park area. 12511 State Route 535, (407) 827-0444; 5586 North Orange Blossom Trail, (407) 298-8020. $. Bar food. C & C JAMAICAN RESTAURANT The island fare at this small Jamaican joint in Apopka is on par with establishments in Pine Hills, the jerk chicken being the biggest draw. A cup of piping-hot goat soup and a spicy beef patty is a meal in itself (and sucking the marrow out of the bones is an unexpected pleasure). Traditional ackee and codfish is a popular break-fast item. 713 S. Orange Blossom Trail, Apopka, 407-884-0883. $. Caribbean.CAFFE POSITANO Impeccable Italian in a bustling trattoria atmosphere with friendly service and manageable prices. The array of pizzettes may be one of the area’s best-kept secrets, with crusts fired in the oven to crunchy perfection. 3030 E. Semoran Blvd., Suite 108, Apopka, 407-774-8080. $$. Café/Bistro, Italian.CHEF’S TABLE AT THE EDGEWATER An intimate setting, superbly executed dishes and the opportunity to banter with the chef make this Winter Garden prix fixe a must-stop on the local foodie trail. Foie gras creme brulee, wild mushroom-and-gruyere torte and sesame-crusted tuna highlight the menu. Berries saute and chocolate souffle will leave you more than sated. 99 W. Plant St., Winter Garden, 407-230-4837. $$$$. American.EL REY DE LA PAPA It’s a meat-and-potatoes affair at this humble outpost. Rustic rib soup is outstandingly hearty; empanadas de carne, delightfully crunchy; and baked potatoes prodigiously weighty. Exotic fruit smoothies and milky tres leches cake break the tuber-and-beef pattern. 1021 S. Dillart St., Winter Garden, 407-656-0700. $$. Latin American.HOUSE BLEND CAFÉ Lattes and cappuc-cinos aren’t the only items worth sampling here. Above-average café fare includes the jerk chicken burrito, beef-and-brie sandwich and breakfast waffles, not to mention freshly made desserts. All of HBC’s profits go toward com-munity service projects in Orange County and around the world. Customers are encouraged to help out, so be sure to inquire if interested in more than just a cup of joe. 10730 W. Colonial Drive, Ocoee, 407-656-7676. $. Coffee/Tea.PENGUIN’S PARADISE DESSERT BAR Dessert bar’s frosty motif and penguin para-phernalia make it a family-friendly destination, but offerings, like mango sorbetto, Illy-brand gourmet coffee and buffalo chicken panini on grilled ciabatta bread, are decidedly high-end. Swiss chocolate couverture and banana-caramel praline gelato are molto squisito, while tiramisu gelato and a shot of espresso make a nice addi-tion to any shake. Cannolis are a tad crumbly, but the filling is velvety. 2456 Maguire Road, Ocoee, 407-905-5056. $. Deli/Sandwiches, Sweets.POSITANO Italian eatery with a dual identity provides a mix of fine dining and family fare. Sharing a menu, the front room offers a boister-ous, family-oriented pizzeria where you can watch your New York-style pizza being made, and the back room features elegant, sophisti-cated dining. 8995 W. Colonial Drive, Ocoee, 407-291-0602. $$. Italian, Pizza.TERIYAKI HOUSE The name is mislead-ing, but Teriyaki House is the place to come

to for real-deal Taiwanese fare. Skip the paper menu and focus on the photo menu: Sweet sausage, fatty pork belly and grilled milkfish all delight, but stinky tofu is lamentably easy on the nasal passages. Ask for three-cup chicken, a Formosan fave that’ll have hot-pot hounds salivating. Closed Sundays. 5600 W Colonial Dr, 321-281-8088. $. Chinese, Pan-Asian.THAI BLOSSOM Winter Garden’s first Thai restaurant offers area residents their first local taste of traditional and classic Siamese dishes. The menu offers a hodgepodge of hit-and-miss items, potstickers falling into the former and Thai basil beef into the latter. Desserts like banana delight and Thai donuts are an undeniable stand-outs. Open seven days a week. 99 W. Plant St., Winter Garden, 407-905-9917. $$. Thai.THE CATFISH PLACE OF APOPKA Florida-style fish house is the place to go when you’re in the mood for down-home fried sea-food. The restaurant is nothing fancy, but the boneless catfish is superb, the house-special coleslaw is crisp, sweet and tart, and the service is warm. 311 Forest Ave., Apopka, 407-889-7980. $$$. American, Seafood.THE GOBLIN MARKET Tucked in a downtown alleyway, this casual gourmet outlet is set up for dining inside and out, as well as takeout. Try the flavorful crab bisque, served with a small crystal pitcher of sherry, or the crab cakes served with a tart cucumber-onion relish. It’s rare to find such creativity in this neck of the woods. 330 Dora Drawdy Way, Mount Dora, 352-735-0059. $$$$. American, Seafood.TIMEHRI Curry, roti and a bevy of peppery Chinese dishes make this humble West Colonial eatery a gathering ground for Orlando’s Guyanese community. Chicken curry with buttery, unleav-ened dhal pouri is the way to go, though oxtail pepperpot offers a true taste of the country. A swig of fresh coconut water keeps you cool – just look for the guy selling it in the parking lot. 7371 W. Colonial Drive, 407-291-2047. $. Caribbean.WINDSOR ROSE ENGLISH TEA ROOM High-tea favorites – and heartier fare such as steak – are charmingly presented. But the piece de resistance is Queen Victoria cake, crowned by powdered sugar and filled with strawberry pre-serves and cream cheese. 142 W. Fourth Ave., Mount Dora, 352-735-2551. $. Coffee/Tea.YELLOW DOG EATS Charming family-owned eatery is bigger and better after surviving a fire. Remodeled but still serving sophisticated sand-wiches like the Yellow Dog club: pioneer bread with Cointreau mayonnaise, honey-mesquite tur-key, smoked Gouda, bacon and red-leaf lettuce. 1236 Hempel Ave., Windermere, 407-296-0609. $. American, Deli/Sandwiches.

PARADISO 37

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2 for 1 DRINKS or

FRIED DILL PICKLES WITH PURCHASE OF AN ENTREE.

One offer/coupon per person per visit. Applies to 2 for 1 house wine, well brands and draft beer. Not valid for special/private

events. Expires 3/1/12. Management reserves all rights.

free

LIVE MUSIC EVERY NIGHT!

Visit our live music calendar online.

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