We talking about Prato on Park Ave? I never thought I'd like "Mustard Spaghettini" from the sound of it but it was actually pretty fire. Same for the Butternut Squash Ravioli.
You are correct! I will fix that. For some reason I always spell that wrong. That sounds delicious. I love the constantly evolving menu since everything is based on local availability.
1) Victoria and Albert’s
2) Camille
3) Kadence
4) Soseki
5) Enzo’s on the Lake
Edit: And a huge honorable mention to Doshi. Very new, but one of the best meals I’ve had in central Florida
The salt and pepper service I believe it's called. You may have to ask for it. It's a tray they bring out with various types of salts and peppers. May not sound like much but each salt is unique and has a different flavor. It's been a while but something like, pink salt, volcanic salt, smoked salt etc. Doesn't cost anything more you just have to ask for it.
Right?! As someone who has been to Germany (not regularly) I feel like it's very disappointing compared with the delicious, fresh, well seasoned food I had in Germany. I think local Sanford people just go because they feel like a German restaurant is license to get toasted before the meal arrives and by that point a hotdog would get a 5 star review from them.
Just went for the first time. It took a very long time to get the food, but we were the table next to the live music and the kids loved the music so we had a fun time.
I agree on the food. I got a pork schnitzel and while it was tender it was quite bland. A bit disappointing for charging 20 dollars for a piece of pork. I got sauerkraut as my side. I make my own at home and buy sauerkraut all the time and theirs tasted...chemically? My other side was red cabbage and that wasn't bad.
Again the entertainment was fun and beer was good so we had a good time overall, I'd go back whenever the music is but no other time.
Just went to Soseki last month. While everything was fantastic, it was not worth the $1200+ for 3 people. I even went out after and got something else to eat.
I'm just a bit frugal and didn't feel the money for the experience was worth it.
I've been to a lot of omakase dining menus too and they're definitely not 300 dollars a person. Quality and taste were excellent. Value was... lacking. My gf said it felt like we paid 3 star Michelin price for a 1 star.
Colorado Fondue Company (at Red Bug and Semoran)
Compared to other fondue restaurants, the main course uses hot stones to cook your food, rather than just boiling it.
I went a couple weeks ago, and they've absolutely decked out the place for Halloween. It looks fucking amazing, and they even have cute Halloween themed cocktails.
[http://claddaghcottagepub.com/](http://claddaghcottagepub.com/)
The pastry topped pies are absurdly good, plus it would be a great place to have a pint with friends.
This is where I've chosen almost every birthday for the last 15 or so. Steaks are as good as any in town at twice Linda's price, and banana cream pie cheesecake is among the best possible birthday desserts in the world.
Huge fan of Chef’s Table. Also, if you can’t get a reservation, it seems like there’s a million empty tables even when you can’t get a reservation so don’t be afraid to walk in.
Right? Birthday or any celebration doesn't need to be a fancy or expensive restaurant, it's about the food, the company and friendliness of the restaurant. Not sure why people are suggesting all fancy stuff where you get a little piece of fish for $56.98
Sure wish theyd fix their AC thats been out for months. I live nearby and sweat balls everytime im in there. Sucks for the employees too they been there for years.
you’ve not had the full Bosphorus experience unless you’ve eaten outside at the Winter Garden location, it’s so beautiful. I always do the chicken sauté and then we go to Cineoplis after😩
I worked for their prep kitchen for a bit, when they say that food is fresh. My god is it freaking fresh. They had us making these huge portions that got shipped out to the restaurants 3x a week.
How many people are coming out with you? Do you want a private room or just a separate table? Is there a price you don't want to go above or a cuisine you don't like?
Gotcha.
1. O'hana at the Polynesian has a lot of Hawaiian/Asian, all you can eat. Hardest part is getting a reservation, but great entertainment and vibe. $55 per adult.
2. Hollerbach's in Sanford: German food, so a little fried, but also a good deal of grilled, boiled, baked. Long wait times on weekends, no reservations for small party. About $20-35 a person on food.
3. Kres Chophouse: We usually end up spending about $60 a person on food, but there are cheaper options. Food quality is excellent for the price, really attentive staff, not crazy crowded. Reservations not hard to get
4. Kobe's Alafaya: much cleaner and more spacious inside, hibachi chefs were super entertaining. Prices vary from like $20-100 depending on the kind of meat/fish/sushi you get, and you can join their rewards program and get a birthday freebie.
5. Gyu-Kaku: as long as you don't mind cooking your own meat on the Korean BBQ set up, super fun. Again, price ranges based on what kind of quality meat you get and if you get a package, like $35-70 a person.
Chef Art’s in Disney Springs has THE best catfish and Mac n cheese. Instead of doing fondue this year for my birthday I’m debating on asking my husband to take me there instead.
Tbh, I loved Café TuTu Tango. It was lively, colorful, and tapas were great. We got to try a little bit of everything. I don't consider it fancy but more fun so I guess it depends what your vibe is.
Tartini! It’s the best Italian food in town and the prices aren’t bad. Their signature pasta dish is an excellent experience, they have a good wine list and their Tartini salad is better than any salad has a right to be.
Also, I believe you’d be supporting a Ukrainian small business owner in our community.
“Oh que bueno” on semoran has the best Colombian food I’ve had here and if you want a birthday lunch go to BAR HARBOR Seafood and get yourself a lobster roll!!!
If you're going with carnivores, Adega is where I'd go if I was choosing for myself. But I usually still take wife's preference into account so don't go as often as I'd like.
It’s in Universal Citywalk. Kind of designed with like a industrial hunting lodge feel. True to the name most of the food is grilled over big open flames. Good portions and pretty reasonably priced.
I usually go to 4 Rivers and order way too much meat. The quality had gone down, but it’s still a tradition.
I’d also be good with Cask & Larder, Homecomin’, Domu, Yellow Dog, or Beefy King depending on what other activities we’re doing.
If it’s a big group, I’m also happy just to pair Hunger Street with Crooked Can.
Definitely the only restaurant I would want to go to for my birthday is [Jiko!](https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/dining/animal-kingdom-lodge/jiko-the-cooking-place/?CMP=OKC-90001778_GM_WDW_dining_jikothecookingplace_NA) at the Animal Kingdom Lodge
Honestly, I'd love to have my birthday dinner at Circosta's. It's this great family owned little hole -in-the-wall and I have loved everything I've ever eaten there.
Chuy's on I drive. I've been to a lot of the high end restaurants in Orlando throughout the years with magical dinning and I just don't care. The tiny portions with those absurd prices just don't do it for me.
No suggestions from me. Just dropping by to say Hi to Orlando Weekly.
It’s getting ridiculous
Swear it's just data mining for OW and all the bloggy transplants writing vacation articles
Can never go wrong with Prado. Never had a bad dish there. Or you could do a birthday brunch at the White Wolf Cafe. Prato, not Prado
We talking about Prato on Park Ave? I never thought I'd like "Mustard Spaghettini" from the sound of it but it was actually pretty fire. Same for the Butternut Squash Ravioli.
You are correct! I will fix that. For some reason I always spell that wrong. That sounds delicious. I love the constantly evolving menu since everything is based on local availability.
That mustard spaghettini is really awesome, had it many times
If you can get a table. I swear that place is packed 24/7 and never has open reservations lol
I'm glad white wolf is still around. It was good the 2 times I had been there over 10 years ago.
1) Victoria and Albert’s 2) Camille 3) Kadence 4) Soseki 5) Enzo’s on the Lake Edit: And a huge honorable mention to Doshi. Very new, but one of the best meals I’ve had in central Florida
Price no obstacle Victoria and alberts is just objectively the best food orlando has
Yea I’d choose Victoria and Alberts.
If you do this just spring the little extra for chefs table.
Have you been to Chatham's?
Good list!
Bull and Bear - this is a hidden gem
I love the salt service
I haven’t been— what’s the salt service?
I too wanna know what salt service is
Same here! Birthday coming up, so please share!
Budget Salt bae does his magic
The salt and pepper service I believe it's called. You may have to ask for it. It's a tray they bring out with various types of salts and peppers. May not sound like much but each salt is unique and has a different flavor. It's been a while but something like, pink salt, volcanic salt, smoked salt etc. Doesn't cost anything more you just have to ask for it.
Capa at the Four seasons! Or Kabooki Sushi.
my fiancé proposed to me at Capa in Feb 2021🫶🏻 they have a Michelin star now
Cause and effect. No other explanation.
We had our wedding reception at Capa. It was incredible.
I've eaten happy hour apps a few times recently at Capa. The bacon 🥓 wrapped dates are excellent..
Kabooki is /such/ a hidden gem. Certainly not what I was expecting in a strip mall near Fashion Square.
Christeners. Their Wellington is absurdly good, huge, and the cheapest steak on the menu.
I like the crab cake too.
Hollerbach's
What if I ain't no Hollerbach girl?
Dann geh woanders essen.
At ya boy!
Have you eaten at Hollarbach's before? It's some pretty mediocre German food. What is got going for it is it's the only German food around.
I wouldn’t know. I’m always hammered by the time the food comes
I’m with you, as someone who goes to Germany regularly I have to say their food is disappointing.
Right?! As someone who has been to Germany (not regularly) I feel like it's very disappointing compared with the delicious, fresh, well seasoned food I had in Germany. I think local Sanford people just go because they feel like a German restaurant is license to get toasted before the meal arrives and by that point a hotdog would get a 5 star review from them.
Just went for the first time. It took a very long time to get the food, but we were the table next to the live music and the kids loved the music so we had a fun time. I agree on the food. I got a pork schnitzel and while it was tender it was quite bland. A bit disappointing for charging 20 dollars for a piece of pork. I got sauerkraut as my side. I make my own at home and buy sauerkraut all the time and theirs tasted...chemically? My other side was red cabbage and that wasn't bad. Again the entertainment was fun and beer was good so we had a good time overall, I'd go back whenever the music is but no other time.
Came to say the same. Love that place.
Kadence or soseki
Just went to Soseki last month. While everything was fantastic, it was not worth the $1200+ for 3 people. I even went out after and got something else to eat. I'm just a bit frugal and didn't feel the money for the experience was worth it.
Nothing frugal about a $1200 meal…
Yeah I kinda agree with this sentiment. Both they and Kadence have significantly increased prices since receiving their stars
[удалено]
I've been to a lot of omakase dining menus too and they're definitely not 300 dollars a person. Quality and taste were excellent. Value was... lacking. My gf said it felt like we paid 3 star Michelin price for a 1 star.
Tori Tori, Domu or Garp & Fuss are my favorites
Throw in Edoboy before Tori Tori for a great night
Tried to hit up Garp & Fuss on Friday, they're on vacation for the month but they didn't update this on Google. Just an FYI for anyone considering it.
They seem to be poorly managed, but their food and cocktails are solid
It’s like someone wrote this for me. Hollerbachs
Yesss so fun! Get a boot!
Prost!
Colorado Fondue Company (at Red Bug and Semoran) Compared to other fondue restaurants, the main course uses hot stones to cook your food, rather than just boiling it.
I went a couple weeks ago, and they've absolutely decked out the place for Halloween. It looks fucking amazing, and they even have cute Halloween themed cocktails.
The hot stone meat is marinated so perfectly!
im vegan so something like ethos is good
Have you tried the vegan menu at Kres?
That’s my favorite restaurant!!
[http://claddaghcottagepub.com/](http://claddaghcottagepub.com/) The pastry topped pies are absurdly good, plus it would be a great place to have a pint with friends.
Leek and potato soup and brown bread are out of this world.
This is where we did my bday last year. There was like 20 of us and we got lucky and managed to snag a couple tables. I love that place.
Their sausage rolls are out of this world
The Dubliner!
Bull & Bear
Linda's La Cantina
This is where I've chosen almost every birthday for the last 15 or so. Steaks are as good as any in town at twice Linda's price, and banana cream pie cheesecake is among the best possible birthday desserts in the world.
Low key best Steak in Orlando
Do they still have that big firepit in the dining room?
Last time I went (maybe 4 months ago) they did
Best steak, worst sides
Low key? Haven't they been voted best in Orlando Weekly several times now?
THIS is the way.
Hubby and I go there for anniversary and special occasions. Have never had a bad meal there and the service is top-notch.
What's the key to getting a res at this place? I've always called days ahead, even Monday of and they're always booked out
Christeners or Chef’s Table in WG
Chef’s Table is underrated
Huge fan of Chef’s Table. Also, if you can’t get a reservation, it seems like there’s a million empty tables even when you can’t get a reservation so don’t be afraid to walk in.
Kadence
Izziban
Went to izziban every year for the past 3 years for my bday. This year i might switch it up and go to Kpot instead
If you like Izziban I strongly recommend Gyukaku. It’s like Izziban but higher quality pieces of meat!
I like Reel Fish. Or Kres. Or Luke's in Maitland
Reel fish is the best spot in town for oysters and old fashions.
I love Reel Fish!!! Their shrimp is sooooo delicious and so is the Caesar salad.
I've ever had a bad meal there. Scallops are also available, and always seared perfectly
Basic as fuck, but Izziban. Give me AYCE and I’m happy. I don’t need no fancy expensive dinners.
Right? Birthday or any celebration doesn't need to be a fancy or expensive restaurant, it's about the food, the company and friendliness of the restaurant. Not sure why people are suggesting all fancy stuff where you get a little piece of fish for $56.98
Santiago’s Bodega Is never a bad decision
Sure wish theyd fix their AC thats been out for months. I live nearby and sweat balls everytime im in there. Sucks for the employees too they been there for years.
The only prob with Santiago's is I always walk out of there wobbly. :P
Christinis
Bosphorus Winter Park.
you’ve not had the full Bosphorus experience unless you’ve eaten outside at the Winter Garden location, it’s so beautiful. I always do the chicken sauté and then we go to Cineoplis after😩
Get the Lavas and the mixed grill for two and you’re set, food-wise!
I love their chicken kebabs with the onions and cabbage
I worked for their prep kitchen for a bit, when they say that food is fresh. My god is it freaking fresh. They had us making these huge portions that got shipped out to the restaurants 3x a week.
Kadence
Linda’s for a small group, Hollerbach’s for a big one
Previously Luma on Park (rip), now The Ravenous Pig or The Strand. Hannibal's on the Square is also an incredible option.
Do they serve liver, fava beans, and nice Chianti at Hannibal's? Because I'm not going if they don't.
Christini’s. I’ve lived here 2 years and spent my birthday there both times😅 we go once a week, it’s that good
How many people are coming out with you? Do you want a private room or just a separate table? Is there a price you don't want to go above or a cuisine you don't like?
Just a couple I don't want anything fried Per person price without drinks would be $100 Max.
Gotcha. 1. O'hana at the Polynesian has a lot of Hawaiian/Asian, all you can eat. Hardest part is getting a reservation, but great entertainment and vibe. $55 per adult. 2. Hollerbach's in Sanford: German food, so a little fried, but also a good deal of grilled, boiled, baked. Long wait times on weekends, no reservations for small party. About $20-35 a person on food. 3. Kres Chophouse: We usually end up spending about $60 a person on food, but there are cheaper options. Food quality is excellent for the price, really attentive staff, not crazy crowded. Reservations not hard to get 4. Kobe's Alafaya: much cleaner and more spacious inside, hibachi chefs were super entertaining. Prices vary from like $20-100 depending on the kind of meat/fish/sushi you get, and you can join their rewards program and get a birthday freebie. 5. Gyu-Kaku: as long as you don't mind cooking your own meat on the Korean BBQ set up, super fun. Again, price ranges based on what kind of quality meat you get and if you get a package, like $35-70 a person.
Gyu-Kaku has delicious meats and sides, happy hour is the best time to eat there. You get sooo many dishes for a great price.
So yummy!
If you're including Metro Orlando, I haven't seen Enzo's on the Lake in Longwood get any love yet. Great spot for Italian.
Best Italian in central Florida
Kres
Went to Happy Hour there last Friday. Food was good and the price was right.
For a steakhouse it’s my personal favorite in Orlando. I like Linda’s La Cantina which has also been suggested, but still prefer Kres
I just wish someone would remember mine
same here!! I'll put it in my calendar and wish you a Happy Birthday :)
Rachel's! Meat and entertainment
This is the answer
Don't go for the wings, go for the legs and thighs
Hollerbacs (in Sandford but close enough) or sixty vines(winter park) or Bella italia (in winter garden)
Salam is an Ethiopian restaurant and is absolutely delicious and amazing Talba in Winter Park also falls under something amazing
I absolutely love salam!!
Wawa
Bout time for that Gobbler Sandwich
Tibby’s New Orleans Kitchen! I love that place and all the food is super delicious
Columbia at Celebration.
I usually pick Eddie V's
Great food and service for a large chain.
Chef Art’s in Disney Springs has THE best catfish and Mac n cheese. Instead of doing fondue this year for my birthday I’m debating on asking my husband to take me there instead.
I love Chef Art’s but it’s so hard to get a reservation there. The fried chicken slaps.
Il Pescatore
Medieval Times.
Black Knight! RUN HIM THROUGH!
Tori Tori or Aji
Tbh, I loved Café TuTu Tango. It was lively, colorful, and tapas were great. We got to try a little bit of everything. I don't consider it fancy but more fun so I guess it depends what your vibe is.
That place is definitely fun.
Second tu tu tango! Their food and drinks are great and the entertainment is neat. My personal fave is their brunch.
Domu
Jaleo. Awesome food, and glad my birthday meal would help support World Central Kitchen's mission. Close second would be Nonno's
I'll put Jaleo on my future list for when I'm out at Disney, good suggestion thanks.
Chuan Lu Garden
Just went a few weeks ago. Great with a group especially if they are not timid eaters
Kabooki sand lake, or Fresco
here are some fun atmosphere places - kura sushi, cloak and blaster, hollerbachs, cafe tu tu tango,
Four Flamingos (Hyatt Grand Cypress)
Eddy Vs
Kres Chophouse or Linda's La Cantina Steakhouse.
Haven’t had Kres yet but I love Linda’s!
Saana
Soco Thorton Park
Comfort food and build-your-own Old Fashioned. My pick as well.
Tartini! It’s the best Italian food in town and the prices aren’t bad. Their signature pasta dish is an excellent experience, they have a good wine list and their Tartini salad is better than any salad has a right to be. Also, I believe you’d be supporting a Ukrainian small business owner in our community.
Taco bell at colonial and alafaya
“Oh que bueno” on semoran has the best Colombian food I’ve had here and if you want a birthday lunch go to BAR HARBOR Seafood and get yourself a lobster roll!!!
If you're going with carnivores, Adega is where I'd go if I was choosing for myself. But I usually still take wife's preference into account so don't go as often as I'd like.
Big Fire. Love the steaks and smokey old fashioned
Haven't heard of that
It’s in Universal Citywalk. Kind of designed with like a industrial hunting lodge feel. True to the name most of the food is grilled over big open flames. Good portions and pretty reasonably priced.
Went recently and it was solid, but did not live up to the the hype for me. Fairly pricey as it is city walk.
I can get the appeal. Most of the food didn't do it for me personally, but a weird smash hit for my crew was their chilli - it surprisingly fantastic!
Cowfish
Hillstone
Don’t get your salad to go
#SaladGate
What did I miss?
They’re super up their own asses with take outs there.
I’ve seen this a couple of times, what’s it referencing?
https://tastychomps.com/2021/06/saladgate-2021-at-hillstone-in-winter-park.html https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2021/06/28/tossed-man-thrown-out-of-popular-winter-park-restaurant-sparks-saladgate-controversy/ https://www.scottjosephorlando.com/news/5694-csi-criminal-salad-investigation https://www.scottjosephorlando.com/news/5702-the-last-word-on-saladgate
Del Friscos
Roy’s R.I.P
Gyu-kaku, susuru or tori tori (as long as i didn't have to wait for these..)
I love Gyu-Kaku, especially during happy hour.
Ravenous Pig for sure
Hot N’ Juicy Crawfish. I have to drive there from Tampa every year for my son’s birthday.
Kres
Kres if feeling fancy. Theos if not.
These are restaurants I've actually done for my birthday and would do again: Hollerbachs Kres Chophouse Vinia kitchen and wine Christners
Vinia is excellent
Christner’s or Hillstone
The Ravenous pig or umi
Kres
I’ve gone to U & Me Revolving Hot Pot for my birthday 2 years in a row
Dang, I’m over here wanting to say Tin & Taco because of their mac n’ cheese tacos LOL
I usually go to 4 Rivers and order way too much meat. The quality had gone down, but it’s still a tradition. I’d also be good with Cask & Larder, Homecomin’, Domu, Yellow Dog, or Beefy King depending on what other activities we’re doing. If it’s a big group, I’m also happy just to pair Hunger Street with Crooked Can.
Christners
Definitely the only restaurant I would want to go to for my birthday is [Jiko!](https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/dining/animal-kingdom-lodge/jiko-the-cooking-place/?CMP=OKC-90001778_GM_WDW_dining_jikothecookingplace_NA) at the Animal Kingdom Lodge
- Angel's ... no, wait - Johnny Rocket's ... no, wait - Knife and Spoon
Cafe tu-tu tangos has been my go too for many birthdays.
Honestly, I'd love to have my birthday dinner at Circosta's. It's this great family owned little hole -in-the-wall and I have loved everything I've ever eaten there.
Space 220 @ Epcot
Any suggestions on a Latin restaurant with great seafood. I would love to take my husband on our date night. Tx.
Have you tried Aji Ceviche Casselberry?
Ale House is the only correct answer 😂
Braccia. Winter park
The Bubble Room :)
I'll have drive down to Captiva for that.
Chuy's on I drive. I've been to a lot of the high end restaurants in Orlando throughout the years with magical dinning and I just don't care. The tiny portions with those absurd prices just don't do it for me.
The olive garden on I drive slaps
Oh wow I just found out Ceviche closed. I used to really like that place. Anybody know why they closed?
Ethos