Travel for Food Hub The Food Blog for Travel Lovers
Last Updated on January 29, 2023
Hello there, foodie! Central Florida is known for many things, and one of those things is its vast and diverse food scene offering a wide variety of unique dining experiences in Orlando. From Kissimmee to Clermont and beyond, you can find just about any type of cuisine imaginable. And this is not an overstatement.
If you’re looking for a particular type of food, chances are good that you’ll find it here in Central Florida. Whether you’re in the mood for some authentic Cuban cuisine or want to try your hand at cooking Indian food, there’s something for everyone. And if you’re just looking for a good old-fashioned burger and fries, you can find that, too.
If you’re looking for something a little different the next time you’re in town, be sure to check out one (or all!) of these 10 unique and unusual dining experiences:
1. The Ravenous Pig
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This Winter Park gem is known for its inventive New American cuisine, which includes dishes like smoked pork belly with watermelon and grilled octopus with chorizo. It has been open since January 2007 and is a favorite among locals and visitors. Its story is also pretty interesting – it was started by two childhood friends who met while working in a kitchen in England. They eventually decided to move to Florida and open their restaurant, and the rest is history!
2. IHOP
Yes, you read that correctly – IHOP. While it may not be the most unique dining experiences in Orlando, it’s certainly one of the most unusual. This restaurant is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. And if that’s not enough to convince you to check it out, they also have a full bar!
3. The Polite Pig
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This fast-casual eatery in Disney Springs is a must-visit for any BBQ lover. The Polite Pig serves southern classics like pulled pork sandwiches, ribs, and chicken wings. It has been open since 2017 and has been a hit for locals and visitors. Before opening The Polite Pig, the owners also ran a successful BBQ catering business, so they know their stuff!
4. Linda’s Winter Park Diner
This retro-style diner has been a Winter Park staple since 1950. It’s open for breakfast and lunch, and it’s known for its homestyle cooking and friendly staff. If you’re looking for a classic diner experience, this is the place to go!
5. Dixie Belle’s Cafe
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This quirky cafe is located in the College Park neighborhood of Orlando. It’s a popular spot for breakfast and lunch, and it’s known for its delicious southern-style cooking. The Cafe has been open since 2006, and it’s named after the owner’s grandmother, who was known for her amazing cooking.
6. Bob Evans
This retro-style diner in Kissimmee is a must-visit for anyone who loves classic American food. The menu features all of your favorite comfort foods, including burgers, fries, shakes, and more. Bob Evans is a popular spot for both locals and visitors.
7. Nick’s Family Diner
This Kissimmee diner is a favorite among locals. It’s known for its large portions and tasty food, including breakfast items like pancakes and eggs, lunch items like burgers and sandwiches, and dinner items like steak and potatoes. Nick’s Family Diner is open from Tuesday to Sunday, and it’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or snacks. They have some incredible burgers that you shouldn’t miss., so make sure to try one!
8. Denny’s
This popular chain restaurant is open 24 hours a day, from Thursday to Sunday, and it’s known for its hearty American food. The menu features all of your favorite comfort foods, including pancakes, eggs, burgers, fries, and more. Denny’s is the perfect spot for a late-night meal or snack.
9. Kelly’s Homemade Ice Cream
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This Clermont Park ice cream shop is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth. They offer a wide variety of flavors, including both classic and unique options. Kelly’s Homemade Ice Cream is a great spot for a casual treat or a special occasion. If you’re ever in the mood for delicious ice cream, visit the Clermont Ice Cream Counter.
With both indoor and outdoor seating available, you can relax and savor one of our many signatures or featured flavors. We highly recommend trying an espresso milkshake or affogato; they pair their profile’s creamy ice cream with Foxtail’s rich espresso perfectly.
10. The Crooked Spoon Gastropub
This Clermont gastropub is known for its farm-to-table fare and unique twists on classic dishes. The menu features items like chicken and waffles, mac and cheese, and burgers. The Crooked Spoon is a great spot for lunch or dinner. Do not leave without trying their lobster grilled cheese. You’ll thank us later.
11. Tibby’s New Orleans Kitchen
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This Cajun/Creole restaurant in Altamonte Springs is a must-visit for any fan of Louisiana cuisine. The menu features classics like gumbo, jambalaya, and beignets. You don’t have to be from New Orleans to enjoy the food here, but it definitely doesn’t hurt. The atmosphere is casual and family-friendly, making it a great spot for a quick bite or a leisurely meal. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try the alligator bites!
So there you have it, 10 unusual and unique dining experiences in Orlando. Hungry yet? Before packing your bags and heading to the Sunshine State, be sure to check out our mini-guide below for some helpful tips on what to expect when dining out in Florida.
- Reserve a Table in Advance – If you’re planning on dining at any of the more popular restaurants on this list, be sure to reserve a table in advance. Many of these spots don’t take walk-ins, and they can fill up quickly, especially on weekends.
- Dress Casual – When dining out in Florida, it’s usually best to dress casually. Many upscale restaurants have a dress code, but for the most part, casual attire is perfectly acceptable.
- Expect Good Weather – One of the best things about dining out in Florida is that you can usually count on good weather. Even in the winter, the temperatures are mild, and there’s no need to worry about snow or ice.
- Bring Your sunscreen – Even if the weather is good, you’ll still want to bring your sunscreen. The sun can be pretty intense in Florida, and you don’t want to end up with a sunburn.
- Book an Orlando limo service – If you’re planning on doing some serious dining (and drinking), then you might want to consider booking an Orlando limo service. This way, you can relax and enjoy yourself without worrying about driving. Plus, you can be picked up from the airport in style and taken to your hotel in comfort. Many chauffeurs are locals who can give you some hints about the best places to eat and drink in town.
- Find Accommodation – If you’re planning on dining out in Orlando and you are simply visiting, then you’ll need to find accommodation. There are plenty of hotels and resorts to choose from, so you’re sure to find one that suits your needs. If you’re on a budget, there are also plenty of affordable options.
- Have Cash on Hand – Many restaurants in Florida do not accept credit cards, so it’s always a good idea to have cash on hand. This is especially true if you’re planning on dining at a more casual spot.
- Be Prepared for a Wait – If you’re dining at a popular restaurant, be prepared for a wait. It’s not uncommon to have to wait for an hour or more, especially on weekends.
- Bring Your ID – If you’re planning on drinking alcohol, be sure to bring your ID. You’ll need it to buy drinks at the bar, and you may also be asked for it when ordering food.
- Leave Room for Surprise – When dining out in Florida, be prepared for the unexpected. The state is full of surprises, and you never know what you’re going to find. Whether it’s a hidden gem of a restaurant or a new favorite dish, Florida always has something new to offer. So, it’s OK to discover something new and unexpected when you’re dining out in Florida.
- Combine Food With Other Activities – When dining out in Florida, you can often combine food with other activities. For example, many restaurants offer outdoor seating where you can enjoy the sunny weather. Or, you can find a spot that offers live music or entertainment.
- Check the Reviews – As with any restaurant, it’s always a good idea to check the reviews before dining out in Florida. This way, you can get an idea of what to expect and avoid any surprises.
- Have Fun! – Last but not least, don’t forget to have fun! Dining out should be a fun and enjoyable experience, so make sure to relax and enjoy yourself. After all, that’s what vacation is all about.
When it comes to dining out in Florida, there’s no shortage of options. Whether you’re looking for a casual spot for a quick bite or an upscale restaurant for a special occasion, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for. And with so many unique and unusual dining experiences to choose from, you’re sure to have a memorable time. Bon appetit!
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