Foodies, listen up: Eater Miami recently made a heatmap for Orlando’s dining scene! The map features picks for the 13 hottest restaurants in Orlando right now from Faiyaz Kara of Orlando Weekly (one of our favorite local food writers). The article chronicles the newest and most buzz-worthy restaurants to grace our growing dining scene, covering restaurants stretching from Lake Nona to downtown Orlando and even Disney Springs.
Check out the full list and article here.
To help you break down this list into date night terms, we've organized the picks according to your date night mood.
If you’re feeling fancy…
Sip wine and share cheese & charcuterie at Wine Bar George. Owned by Master Sommelier George Miliotes, this new hotspot feels worlds away from the tourist bustle despite being planted in the heart of Disney Springs. Alternatively, check out Menagerie Eatery & Bar in Thornton Park followed by a romantic stroll around Lake Eola at night. Or, pretend you’re in Italy for the night while indulging in Neapolitan pizza and pastas at F&D Woodfired Italian Kitchen.
If you want to try something new…
Half of the restaurants on the map spotlight international cuisine. Expand your palate by visiting one (or all) of them on date night. Feast on Asian street food at Kai Asian Street Fare or plan a double date at Sticky Rice Lao Street Food so you can order one of everything from the menu to share. Ramen lovers won’t want to miss The Ramen, helmed by Chef Shuichi Tanida, a former chef at Epcot's Mitsukoshi.
Other picks:
If you're craving pizza and beer…
Nosh on some of the best pizza in town at Orange County Brewers, where Pizza Bruno recently took over the kitchen. This location also features an exclusive pie – the No Werewolf – topped with Garlic, oregano, mozzarella, mushrooms, speck, onions, olive oil, and black pepper. Or, make your way to Lake Nona to try Park Pizza and Brewing. This newcomer is a pizza joint and brewery in one featuring wood-fired pizzas and 12 craft brews.
If you want a laid-back atmosphere…
Á La Cart is ideal for those times when you’re both craving different foods but want to go out together. This new food truck park in The Milk District features 4-5 food trucks and an indoor craft beer, cider and wine bar. Another casual option, Stasio’s Italian Deli and Market is an Italian deli perfect for a lunch date when you’re craving a delicious sandwich.
Feature image credit: Lauren Delgado / Orlando Sentinel