Orlando Magazine Aug 2019

FAMOUS AMONG US

MEET SHARON VAUGHN, SONGWRITER EXTRAORDINAIRE PAGE 20

WALLY'S IS BACK!

THE SUPREME WATERING HOLE REOPENS. DID WE LOSE ANY OF THE GRITTY CHARM? PAGE 24

t s e B

of

ORLANDOMAGAZINE.COM

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L R O 9 1 0 2

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CONTENTS FE ATU RES

Peaceful coexistence: A swan boat glides by its namesake on Lake Eola.

It's that time of year, when readers choose the best that The City Beautiful offers. The results of our Best of ORL poll lists dozens of categories, from bike shops to galleries, downtown eateries to nail salons, community leaders to athletes.

Our overall pick? Lake Eola's beloved swans. We pay tribute to them throughout the section.

ON THE COVER FAMOUS AMONG US

MEET SHARON VAUGHN, SONGWRITER EXTRAORDINAIRE PAGE 20

WALLY'S IS BACK!

THE SUPREME WATERING HOLE REOPENS. DID WE LOSE ANY OF THE GRITTY CHARM? PAGE 24

FABULOUS EATS

ETHIOPIAN FLAVORS FLOW AT NILE ON I-DRIVE PAGE 74

Best L of

OR

Lake Eola swan.

Photo By Roberto Gonzalez

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTIONS • Living Well | 67

Look and feel your best.

2 019

Spread Your Wings with Theaters, Singers, Athletes, Eats, Bikes, Bars, Cars, Gyms, Pools, Schools... and SWANS!

4 | ORLANDOMAGAZINE.COM | AUGUST 2019

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

ORLANDO MAGAZINE PRESENTS

Living Well Here, you’ll find pertinent health information and professional opinions from the area’s finest medical experts in our exclusive Q&A’s.

COMING UP SEPTEMBER • Pet Issue

OCTOBER • Food Adventures

• Arts Season Preview ROBERTO GONZALEZ

33

BEST OF ORL

CONTENTS DEPARTM ENTS

UP FRONT

DINE

14 | THE MIX

74 | REVIEW

Enter to win Orlando magazine’s Ultimate Island Resort Giveaway.

16 | FROM THE EDITOR In praise of our besties on Swan Lake.

PULSE 20 | SPOTLIGHT Living in our midst is a self-described "swamp girl'' whose lyrics are songwriting gold.

24 | AFTER DARK

30

Wally’s, the venerable bar on Mills Avenue, has reopened after closing last year. And thankfully, little has changed.

26 | THE FIND In a quaint, blue stucco building on Edgewater Drive, you’ll find Good Crowd, a neighborhood shop with unique gifts for everyone on your list.

28 | GETAWAY Escape to Sea Island, Georgia, an idyllic coastal resort offering premier golf, a fantastic spa and fine food.

76

30 | STORY OF A…

Nile restaurant is no newcomer to I-Drive but its flavors provide a magnificent discovery of Ethiopian cuisine.

76 | REVIEW At Bird of Paradise, food pioneer Emily Rankin creates clean cuisine, including citrusy ceviche and a variety of bowls with greens and veggies.

78 | SAVOR THIS Check out a new feature showcasing some of critic Joseph Hayes' favorite dishes.

80 | RECOMMENDED EATING Restaurants to put on your must-try list.

SCENE 92 | ON THE TOWN What’s happening in the area this month in theater, film, music, art and more.

100 | RSVP Orlando magazine’s Dining Awards; Hot 100 and Real Estate All Stars Reception.

ETC.

Rigger.

104 | EXTRA PULP Laura Anders Lee has traveled extensively and discovered that the world is actually a tiny place.

26

Find more great content about your city online at

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WALLY'S: MARIAH WILD; RIGGER, FOOD/DRINK: ROBERTO GONZALEZ

24

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CONTRIBUTORS WRITERS Tara Bradley Connell, Cheri Henderson, Laura Anders Lee, Megan Padilla, Rita Sotolongo, Megan Stokes PHOTOGRAPHY Steven Diaz, Emily Jourdan, Joshua Kane Photography, Mariah Wild ILLUSTRATION David Vallejo PRODUCTION Jason Jones

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LETTER FROM TH E EDITOR

Fine Feathers

I

f you want a good definition of Best Friends Forever, look no further than the bond between Patty Sheehan and the 57 swans of Lake Eola.

For the past decade, the Orlando city commissioner has been a watchdog of the birds’ welfare, making sure they get annual health checks, leading matchmaking efforts to produce more swan babies (known as cygnets) and starting a fund whereby people can contribute toward the purchase of new swans.

The birds have seen their share of hardship over the years: people feeding them popcorn (it clogs their systems), turning dogs loose on them, disturbing their nests, and stealing them (note to thieves: the swans are microchipped). Recently, there was another setback: two black-necked males had been introduced as potential mates for the lone black-necked female, Queenie. But one ended up dead, likely disposed of by his male counterparts because of a tendency to pick fights.

For the most part, though, the Lake Eola swans live charmed lives. They are a symbol of The City Beautiful, and it’s hard to imagine the city without its special version of Swan Lake.

“They are one of the most recognizable icons,’’ Sheehan says. “People love them. They really capture everyone’s imagination.’’

And there’s good news on the black-necked front: Queenie and the remaining male, nicknamed Big Boy, “are getting along great,’’ Sheehan reports. So perhaps we’ll see some new arrivals next spring.

The swans may not have their own category in this Best of ORL issue, but we’ve decided to proclaim them tops anyway. So throughout the section, which begins on page 33, we’ve assembled some “Swan Bits’’ to educate you further about these stylish residents of downtown. Best of ORL itself is bigger than ever, with reader picks in dozens of categories. Also in this issue: a fascinating read on songwriter Sharon Vaughn, an Orlando native; a visit to the revamped Wally’s bar; and Joseph Hayes’ takes on two eateries, Nile Ethiopian and Bird of Paradise. Also in our Dine section, be sure to check

out our new “Savor This” feature, where each month we'll spotlight a favorite dish from our critic.

And perhaps we should call on Eola’s lone trumpeter swan to help announce this, but the City’s Magazine recently won eight awards from the Florida Magazine Association in the group’s annual competition. The honors included four first-place “Charlie Awards’’ for photography, illustration and design. The details: • Best Design, Typography, Consumer, 20K+ Circulation: Charlie Award, Mary Kate McDevitt for “Food Adventures 2,” October 2018.

• Best Design, Use of Photography, Consumer 20K+ Circulation: Charlie Award, Denis Vargas, Anna Ware, Roberto Gonzalez for “50 Most Powerful” cover, July 2018.

• Best Photography, Cover, Consumer 20K+ Circulation: Charlie Award, Roberto Gonzalez, Anna Ware for “Dining Awards,” May 2018.

• Best Photography, Photo Essay/Series, All Consumer: Charlie Award, Steven Benson for “Elements’’ Interstate 4 photo essay, November 2018.

• Best Traditional Illustration, All Consumer: Silver Award, Mary Kate McDevitt for “Food Adventures 2,” October 2018.

• Best Design, Use of Photography, Consumer 20K+ Circulation: Silver Award, Anna Ware, Denis Vargas, Roberto Gonzalez, Maddy Zollo Rusbosin for “The Art of Accessorizing,” October 2018.

• Best Design, Feature, Consumer 20K+ Circulation: Silver Award, Anna Ware for “Food Adventures 2,” October 2018.

• Best Design, Cover, Consumer 20K+ Circulation: Bronze Award, Mary Kate McDevitt for “Food Adventures 2,” October 2018.

BARRY GLENN

BARRY.GLENN@ORLANDOMAGAZINE.COM

FOR MORSELS OF THE LOCAL DINING SCENE, CHECK OUT JOSEPH HAYES' DINING BLOG SAVOR ORLANDO AT ORLANDOMAGAZINE.COM/SAVORORLANDO 16 | ORLANDOMAGAZINE.COM | AUGUST 2019

ROBERTO GONZALEZ

OMAG ONLINE

PULSE S P OTLI G HT • A F TE R DA R K • TH E FI N D • G E TAWAY • S TO RY O F A …

MARIAH WILD

PAGE 24

WALLY’S WORLD

After closing last summer, Wally’s is back in business. And regulars of the popular bar will be relieved to know that their favorite haunt still has its eccentric energy, with bartenders dispensing “Wally’s pour.”

PULSE SPOTLIGHT

Vaughn at her home in College Park. “I always had this yearning . I never put a name to it. It wasn’t someone.

It was something.”

Around the World and Back Again

Y

YOU MAY NOT RECOGNIZE THE NAME SHARON to it. It wasn’t someone. It Vaughn. But if you’re a country music fan, was something.”

That missing something was chances are you’re familiar with her songs.

Four decades ago, the Orlando native wrote “My Heroes Have Always Been Cowboys,’’ which was recorded first by Waylon Jennings, then became a No. 1 country hit for Willie Nelson in 1980. The song went on to be immortalized that same year in the film The Electric Horseman.

It was a high point in a career that has earned Vaughn international acclaim as a songwriter and has planted her in Nashville, New York, London, Ireland and Sweden. Yet, amid all the success, something was missing.

“I’ve been everywhere—I always had this yearning,’’ Vaughn says. “I never put a name

a sense of home and a feeling that she needed to return to her roots. So she contacted a builder friend to begin renovations on the College Park cottage her grandparents had bought in 1926, and she prepared to move from Stockholm to Orlando.

The timing of her return was providential.

The oldest of six children of an Orlando farming family, “I lost my baby sister right after moving back home” in 2016, Vaughn says. “I think that was part of the vortex pulling me back. At least I had time with her before I lost her.”

Sitting in her home off Edgewater Drive recently, surrounded by family heirlooms, this

20 | ORLANDOMAGAZINE.COM | AUGUST 2019 | PULSE

self-described “swamp girl’’ reflected on her whirlwind life.

Vaughn’s journey began with a fortuitous encounter. An Edgewater High School graduate, she started her career as a singer, with her father—who played guitar and “had a voice like a Vince Gill”—serving as her inspiration.

“I was working full time at WDBO radio, and then I was working at a country station and going to college at night. I also sang at the Ponderosa Steakhouse Lounge on Saturday nights, and I sang at the San Juan Hotel downtown.

“Part of my job at the radio station was to be a liaison to the artists who came into town,” she recalls. This particular day, “it was Porter Wagoner, Mel Tillis and Jim Stafford.

A bunch of huge artists were on this venue. I just marched up to Mel Tillis and I said, ‘Why

ROBERTO GONZALEZ

Acclaimed songwriter Sharon Vaughn, known for her country tunes, returns to the hometown where so much of her music took root. BY CHERI HENDERSON

THE DAY HER DREAM CAME TRUE

don’t y’all come to my show at the Ponderosa Steakhouse Lounge?’ ” That night changed everything. “I’m up there singing my little heart out, and lo and behold, here through the swinging doors—and they really had swinging doors— marches Mel Tillis and his whole entourage. So we sang together all night long.”

When she went back to Ponderosa a couple of days later to pick up her $30 check, the bartender alerted her to a call from Tillis. “He said, ‘I think you’re the best harmony singer I’ve ever heard in my entire life. Would you come and record with me?’ So he sent me to Nashville.

That started the whole thing.” It was 1969.

Vaughn was “green as grass” and 22 years old.

She started as a session singer with The Lea Jane Singers, The Jordanaires and The Nashville Edition and sang at the Grand Ole Opry with Wagoner and Dolly Parton. Vaughn also wrote and sang jingles, which earned her notoriety in Nashville as the Ray Batts furniture store girl. “I was one of those annoying people you see after the news. I was selling furniture.

I sang a little jingle that I wrote.” And there Vaughn’s story took another crucial turn.

Her producer, who had taken note of her songwriting skills, asked Vaughn to write a “cowboy song’’ for Bobby Bare in hopes he could sell it to the singer for his new album.

Channeling her early life among Florida ranchers, Vaughn thought back to the match horse races she attended Sundays after church on makeshift tracks across pastures. She thought about Roy Rogers, the quintessential symbol

HAT: ROBERTO GONZALEZ; ROGERS: COURTESY OF SHARON VAUGHN

At her home, Vaughn tips her hat to a photo of some horsemen and cowboys she idolized while growing up in Orlando.

of the American cowboy and the object of her lifelong obsession. As she revisited those iconic characters and venues in her mind, she had a vision that inspired “My Heroes Have Always Been Cowboys.”

“I’m known for the story value of my songs,” Vaughn explains. “I see movies in my head, and I kind of transcribe what I see.

When I wrote ‘Heroes,’ I pictured an old, worn-out cowboy lying on a sheetless mattress in a flophouse. He was lying there with boots on. They were beaten up with dirt on the soles, and the toes were curled up. He had his feet crossed at the ankles. He was lying there, hands folded behind his head, looking at a light bulb hanging from the ceiling.” And the words flowed: I grew up a-dreamin’ of bein’ a cowboy And lovin’ the cowboy ways Pursuin’ the life of my high ridin’ heroes I burned up my childhood days I learned all the rules of a modern day drifter Don’t you hold on to nothin’ too long Just take what you need from the ladies, then leave them With the words of a sad country song My heroes have always been cowboys And they still are, it seems Sadly, in search of, but one step in back of Themselves and their slow movin’ dreams To her and the producer’s surprise, Bare passed on the song. So on a lark, Vaughn drove to Waylon Jennings’ office and asked the receptionist for a meeting. “She said, ‘Waylon, the Ray Batts girl is here.’ Well, unbeknownst to me, Waylon Jennings had a crush on the Ray

Sharon Vaughn has hobnobbed with Swedish royalty and has worked with some of the top names in the music industry. But only one person ever made her feel starstruck: legendary singer and actor Roy Rogers, known as “King of the Cowboys.”

“I had a total obsession—a recurring-dreams obsession,’’ Vaughn says. It started at her family’s farm in Orlo Vista, where as a youngster she watched a skinny cowboy named Arlie “breaking’’ yearling horses—training them to be ridden. At night, she would have dreams about sitting on the edge of the corral during that ritual—but the cowboy riding the horses was always Roy Rogers.

“In my dream, I had on a red velvet gown with a plume on my hat. Every time Roy would go around and pass me, he would tip his hat.”

Fast forward about 30 years. “I’m at the BMI Country Awards in Nashville.

Somebody said, ‘Roy Rogers is here,’ and I went, ‘Oh my gosh.’ So I saw the photographer for BMI, and I said, ‘Alan, come here. Roy Rogers is here. I’m going to go see him, and when I do, you have to be there and take that picture.’

“I had on a green velvet gown with feathers on the shoulders. I walked up to him, and I was shaking so hard that the feathers were flapping. I held out my hand to him, and I said, ‘Mr. Rrrrr . . . Mr. Rrrrrr . . .’ ” She didn’t want to call him Mr. Rogers because that brought to mind the children’s TV show host, and Roy sounded too familiar.

“He took my hand in both of his hands and said, ‘Sweetheart, what are you trying to say to me?’ I said, ‘My name is Sharon Vaughn. I have loved you my entire life. I wrote “My Heroes Have Always Been Cowboys” because of you.’

And he sang my song to me. Alan goes ‘click’ right then. I almost died. I don’t remember anything past that. It was like a moment frozen in time. I have the picture to prove it.”

—C.H.

PULSE | AUGUST 2019 | ORLANDOMAGAZINE.COM | 21

PULSE SPOTLIGHT

RECORD ACHIEVEMENTS • “My Heroes Have Always Been Cowboys,” Waylon Jennings, 1976; Willie Nelson, 1980 • “Maybe,” Kenny Rogers and Holly Dunn, 1989

Batts girl. I walked in, and there he was in that big chair. He whirled around and went, ‘Well, hello,’ ” she imitates with a hint of a purr.

Vaughn played a tape of her singing the song. An incredulous Jennings rewound it and listened repeatedly. Then he called noted producer Cowboy Jack Clement. “He flew in that night and [Jennings] recorded it,’’ Vaughn recalls, “and it was Cut 1, Side 1 on Wanted!

The Outlaws album, which was the first million-selling album in country music history.”

Willie Nelson and the movie would bring more fame to the song a few years later.

The hits have kept coming, with lyrics sometimes waking Vaughn from her sleep.

She estimates she has written “at least” 4,000 songs—sometimes lyrics only, sometimes with music thanks to her knowledge of chords and her good ear. The artists who have recorded her songs reads like a Who’s Who of country music: Reba McEntire, Randy Travis, Jimmy Buffett, Martina McBride, Patty Loveless, Willie Nelson, The Oak Ridge Boys, Kenny Rogers and Trisha Yearwood.

Her success has been no surprise to longtime friends. Ed Cargill, her music teacher at Howard Middle School and Edgewater High, remembers her as a standout. “I would say, ‘Watch her, and encourage her,’ ” he recalls. “She was destined to stardom.” Cargill and his wife were in the audience in 2017 when Vaughn was honored at a Country Music Hall of Fame’s “Poets and Prophets” event in Nashville.

While Vaughn remembers adolescent indecision about her career, fellow Howard student Ray Palermo remembers her “single-mindedness” about music. “Many years ago she told

• “Til a Tear Becomes a Rose,” Keith Whitley and Lorrie Morgan, 1990 • “Lonely Too Long,” Patty Loveless, 1996 • “Out of My Bones,” Randy Travis, 1998 • “Trip Around the Sun,” Jimmy Buffett and Martina McBride, 2004 • “Right on Time,” Randy Travis, 2004 • “Too Late for Hallelujah,” Boyzone, 2010 • “A Good Day for Love to Die,” The Wanted, 2010 • “You First Loved Me,” Kimberley Walsh, 2013 • “You Gotta Love the Life,” Melissa Manchester, 2015 • “My Heart is Heading Home (This Christmas),” Claire Richards, 2018 • “Scream,” Sergey Lazarev, 2019

me, emphatically, that she was going to be successful in music. She was confident of her future success, and she has achieved what she set out to do.”

Eventually, Vaughn grew restless in Nashville. “I thought the only way I was going to stay fresh and motivated and current was to jump ship. So I went to New York because I wanted to get into musicals. I thought there also was a pop world there. I had started going back and forth to Europe, and I was writing there.”

Vaughn successfully adapted her trademark storytelling lyrics and introduced them to pop. The 2009 Swedish chart-topper “Release Me,” recorded by Agnes Carlsson, was “the biggest hit I ever had in my career,” Vaughn says. “It’s dance pop…and it’s very heart-wrenching. They weren’t used to that depth of lyrics with a dance track.”

Even through her years of writing European pop songs, Vaughn never let go of the idea of writing musicals. Her friend John Rich of the country duo Big & Rich introduced Vaughn to one of her musical heroes, Melissa Manchester, and the two—along with composer Rupert Holmes—wrote a musical titled Sweet Potato Queens, based on a book series by Jill Conner Browne. It has been performed widely in theaters across the country.

“What’s so interesting is I have now come full circle because drama was my first passion,”

22 | ORLANDOMAGAZINE.COM | AUGUST 2019 | PULSE

says Vaughn, who was in Edgewater High’s theater program. “It’s so funny how life jerks you back to where you thought you wanted to be in the first place.” She is working on another musical with British songwriter and musician Ian Dench.

Vaughn remains a prolific songwriter, working out of the studio she converted from the garage where her grandfather once worked on cars. Recently she took on a lyric-writing project for a song performed by Russian pop star Sergey Lazarev and backed by the Moscow Symphony Orchestra. Lazarev was chosen to represent Russia at the Eurovision Song Contest 2019, which took place in May in Israel. The song Vaughn wrote, “Scream,” won third place and was downloaded more than 5 million times in just over a week, she says.

Yet, Vaughn says, she regrets “there is only one of me. There is so much more I want to do”—including writing fiction books based on her life experiences—“but I have run out of the ‘me’ to do it.”

In her mind and in her songs, she often hearkens back to her days hiding in a sabal palm fort along the Little Econ River to get peace from her many siblings, and to the afternoons spent watching match races in pastures. She laments she gave up horseback riding. “That might be the only serious regret I have,” she confesses. After all, her heroes have always been cowboys.

VAUGHN; COURTESY OF SHARON VAUGHN

Sharon Vaughn in the early days of her journey. She’s a graduate of Edgewater High School.

Both Nelson (left) and Jennings recorded “My Heroes Have Always Been Cowboys.”

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PULSE AFTER DARK

Some things never change: Bartenders still serve a generous “Wally’s pour.”

The Wally’s Way community,” he says. “We understand that peocertain glimmer in their eyes. And, of course, ple aren’t necessarily happy about someone else you’d say yes. coming in and changing their home. I hoped to People of all walks of life saddled up and keep the same Wally’s atmosphere that brought made conversation. It was a liquor-infused roundtable with a motley crew who just wanted people to it for all these years.”

So the big question: What’s different? to kick back with a quality “Wally’s pour.” But The doors don’t open at dawn, but the 11:30 it wasn’t just about the drinks. There was a a.m. opening is a pretty good start. certain energy to Wally’s.

They professionally cleaned the iconic naked As soon as it closed, rumor spread about lady wallpaper and replaced the damaged secthe reopening, and the regulars were rightfully tions with pieces from other areas. The leftover worried. Would it have the same vibe? Would strips are in safekeeping for art installments we it go from a dark dive bar to an over-the-top are sure to see in the future.

Instagram spot? Would they put up a “No If anything, the wallpaper is even more Smoking” sign and turn it into a gastropub? prevalent. When Pasternack discovered artwork If you talk to one Wally’s regular, and the featuring a life-like replica of Wally’s wallpaper mastermind behind the seven-month renovaby local artist Maureen Hudas, he arranged to tion, designer Reid Pasternack, it’s clear he put get the original piece. It hangs on his heart and soul into every the back wall by the restrooms. detail. And thankfully, his cliThe sticker- and graffiti-covered ents didn’t hesitate to put their WALLY’S MILLS AVENUE LIQUORS condom dispensers are now works projects on hold so he could 1001 N. Mills Ave., of art. Pasternack moved them focus exclusively on Wally’s.

Orlando from the restroom to their rightful “My clients knew how 407-440-2800 location—a prime spot in the bar. important Wally’s was to the wallysonmills.com

24 | ORLANDOMAGAZINE.COM | AUGUST 2019 | PULSE

MARIAH WILD

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WHEN WALLY’S MILLS Avenue Liquors, the almost-65-year-old dive bar in the Mills 50 District, quietly shut its doors last August, the local response was anything but quiet.

Various social media outlets blew up with rumors and theories on what would happen next. We all had our favorite memories of Wally’s. Now where would we go for strong drinks and aged wallpaper of partially clothed ladies? And boy, if those ladies could talk!

Wally’s was full of stories.

After a friend introduced me to my now-husband, Jamie, we randomly ran into each other one night at Wally’s. He claimed he didn’t know me. (He was lying.) And even if his version of the story is different than mine, that bar will always hold a special place in our hearts.

But that was Wally’s. You never knew what was going to happen once you walked inside.

It had the nostalgic feel of the type of bars that were around long before sports bars and craft beer houses hit the scene. If someone asked, “Want to go to Wally’s?,” there was always a

Wally’s Mills Avenue Liquors maintains its eccentric energy with a mix of nostalgia and an artistic touch. BY TARA BRADLEY CONNELL

MARIAH WILD

Wally’s has a new façade, but the familiar sign is still there; former condom dispensers turned artwork; wall of memorabilia; the “naked ladies” wallpaper (bottom).

The back wall of the package store is a fresh coat of Wally’s Green and one of the original Wally’s signs, “It’s a business doing pleasure with you,” hangs on the wall.

You can still buy liquor here. The same cases line the walls with the original price stickers found in dusty storage boxes. The scoring on the floor blends into itself, showing off over six decades of footsteps. To preserve the concrete, Pasternack had James Elswick of Soulistic Concrete and Design add a protective coating to ensure it lasts another 60 years.

Hidden behind three layers of paneling were water-damaged walls dating back to the mid-century. Pasternack found an expert in San Francisco who was able to make exact replicas and had new versions created with the same wood and stain.

Head to the bar, and you can belly up to the same arm rail and the wear-and-tear of years of spills, water stains and cigarette burns. It’s now covered with a gloss finish to preserve its past.

“There’s an energy here that draws you in,” says Jordan Eichenblatt, creative director at Orange Plane Creative, the local marketing team hired to help with the launch.

They incorporated different items and ideas with a local twist. Swan City Orlando was invited to design Wally’s T-shirts, and Food Truck Fridays is on the weekly agenda.

When it comes to Wally’s regulars giving feedback on the changes, they haven’t been shy about speaking up to the new owner, Minesh Patel, who prefers to work behind the scenes.

Thankfully, he listens.

When there were complaints that the glasses were too big, he replaced them with ones that were the original, smaller size.

By popular demand, the jukebox is also coming back.

When people wanted it darker, they lowered the lighting. And now it’s way too dark for Instagram. If you need to get on social media, you can go outside. The clean coat of paint and mid-century modern mural is perfect for a photo opp.

For the skeptics, Wally’s does look different. Jamie and I were a little skeptical, too.

But the second you walk through the door, briefly blinding everyone with daylight, you notice the welcoming energy is still there.

Behind the bar, the OG bartender Cindy Melchor stands at the helm with a welcoming “Hi, Mama!” It was hard not to get a little choked up when she wrapped her arms around us. The original owner, Walter “Wally” Updike, oversees it all. The urn containing his ashes sits in a prominent cove near the front door.

It’s true, there is no smoking. Now you can actually see who is sitting across from you at the U-shaped bar. If you want to get to the other side, you’ll still bump into someone along the way—and most likely end up in a conversation.

And that’s the Wally’s way. There may be fresh paint and new fixtures, but it’s that burst of energy that hits you when you walk through the door that makes Wally’s feel like home, naked ladies and all.

PULSE | AUGUST 2019 | ORLANDOMAGAZINE.COM | 25

PULSE THE FIND

Good Neighbor A new shop in the heart of College Park offers an array of unique gifts with a personal touch.

T

BY MEGAN PADILLA

THREE YEARS AGO, Sarah Johnson-Markve

1 “Brushstrokes” small bag with tassel by Papaya!, $25 2 Mindfullness Cards by Chronicle Books, $16.95 3 Creative Co-op stoneware measuring cups, set of 4, $22 4 Illume Coconut

Milk Mango candle (also available in Gardenia and Fresh Sea Salt), $23-$31 5 Floor 9 marble serving board and spreader, $27 6 Danica Studio linen half-moon “merman” pouch, $13.

26 | ORLANDOMAGAZINE.COM | AUGUST 2019 | PULSE

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2

6

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3 4

STEVEN DIAZ; SARAH: EMILEY ICHIKAWA

(at right) envisioned her future shop, filled with modern, trend-forward gifts that would fit the bill for every occasion. During College Park’s Spring Fest in May 2019, she opened the doors of Good Crowd on Edgewater Drive in the space formerly occupied by Alchemy Salon.

While the shop’s name “represents the vendors and makers we stock,” says Johnson-Markve, she also wants it to be “a place where people want to shop and learn something from the events we host. We want everyone to feel a part of the ‘good crowd.’ ” The light-filled interior houses shelves of eye-catching merchandise, most of it $30 or less, such as a bottle opener that looks like a G.I. Joe action figure, stylish cosmetic bags and a small but mighty selection of greeting cards.

Her inspiration began when she and her sisters regularly visited their favorite store, Patina, in the South Minneapolis neighborhood where they grew up. “Shopping was our love language,” she says. “I didn’t always buy stuff, but I would be amazed looking at all the unique items on the shelves.”

In Orlando, Johnson-Markve developed a friendship with College Park business owners Brad and Christina Cowherd. “Brad asked if I wanted an internship at Infusion Tea buying his merchandise.” The two of them traveled to the trade market in Atlanta where Cowherd taught Johnson-Markve how to do wholesale buying.

The next year she went on her own. When Cowherd learned that Alchemy Salon was vacating its Edgewater location, he asked Sarah, “When are you going to do Patina 2.0?”

Johnson-Markve’s next buying trip was to NY Now (the market show for home and lifestyle items) to scout merchandise for her new venture, Good Crowd. “I wanted an aesthetic that you can’t find on Edgewater Drive,” she says. When someone comes in and says, “This would be perfect for my [best friend, child’s teacher, brother],” she feels triumphant. “That is exactly what I intended.” 2812 Edgewater Drive, Orlando. 407-988-3630. goodcrowdshop.com

PULSE GETAWAY

Georgian Gem Situated between marshland and ocean, sumptuous Sea Island is a paradise for golfers, couples and those who love the outdoors. BY BARRY GLENN

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GEORGIA’S 100 MILES of coastline offers a breathtaking expanse of rugged grace, with its patchwork of salt marshes, beaches, rivers and estuaries. In that setting lies the luxurious resort of Sea Island, teeming with tradition and offering visitors seemingly endless choices amid timeless beauty.

This venerable paradise is the only resort in the world to have received four Forbes Five-Star awards for 11 straight years, with those accolades bestowed upon the two main lodging options, The Cloister and The Lodge, as well as The Spa at Sea Island and the Georgian Room restaurant. Established in 1928, Sea Island has hosted the G-8 Summit of world leaders, and, as part of a unique tradition, seven U.S. presidents and other dignitaries have planted live oaks on the grounds, marked by signs that bear their names.

But you don’t have to be a head of state to enjoy what Sea Island has to offer—although it is a formidable challenge deciding from among the multitude of things to do. Just unfold the resort’s planning guide brochure and you’ll find a veritable accordion of activities, including golf, spa treatments, kayaking, skeet shooting, falconry, horseback riding, fitness, shopping, and on and on.

The best advice: Try your best to do it all.

And prepare yourself for plenty of pampering, with a healthy dose of Southern charm.

Golfers, families, couples seeking a romantic getaway—all flock to this opulent retreat that’s one of Georgia’s famed Golden Isles (St. Simons, Little St. Simons and Jekyll being the others). And if the accommodations weren’t already pleasing enough, Sea

PLAN YOUR TRIP CELLAR MAGIC If you have family, friends and the financial wherewithal, The Cloister and The Lodge each has a marvelous wine cellar available for small-group dining. The Cloister’s English oak table seats 20 beneath two chandeliers and heart pine beams, while at The Lodge, guests descend to a bottle-lined chamber, where wines are paired with selections from Colt & Alison’s menu.

Island recently added six marvelous guest cottages next to The Lodge, overlooking St. Simons Sound and the Atlantic Ocean. Five are two-bedroom dwellings (the remaining cottage has four), and all are the picture of luxury, featuring white-paneled living rooms, marble bathrooms and huge walk-in showers.

Steps away are a new oceanfront pool and a pool house with a wraparound porch.

Much of the activity at this coastal paradise revolves around golf, and it’s no wonder.

The setting is gorgeous, with fairways skirting ocean, sand dunes, marshes, grand old oaks and tidal pools. Sea Island boasts three championship courses—Seaside, Plantation (newly redesigned and set to reopen this fall) and Retreat. It’s also home to the RSM Classic, a stop on the PGA tour each November; pros who live here include Davis Love III, Matt Kuchar and Zach Johnson.

And if you’re looking to become the master of your game there’s no better place to learn how than the Golf Performance Center, a dazzling, new 17,000-square-foot space that houses everything from a putting studio to covered instruction bays that look out toward waterfront target greens. Top-notch instructors offer remedies for your long game, short game—and your mental game. Another resort amenity sure to help get you adjusted both mentally and physically: Sea Island’s spa and fitness center, with 23 treatment rooms, suites for couples’ massages, an indoor lap pool and a multitude of workout equipment and fitness programs.

While The Cloister is a Mediterraneanstyle structure, The Lodge projects an English

manor feel. At each, you will find glorious dining options. The standout is The Georgian Room. With its gold and crystal chandeliers, hand-carved fireplace and formal service, you’ll feel like you’re dining in a grand old Southern mansion. The ever-changing menu might include items like Colorado lamb with squash, ratatouille and eggplant, or golden rainbow trout with cabbage and maitake mushrooms. Other dining choices include Colt & Alison, a classic steakhouse of highbacked leather chairs, a glowing fireplace and Caesar salads and Bananas Foster prepared tableside. Tavola is a rustic Italian eatery offering pastas and wood-fired pizzas, including the namesake pizza with house-made sausage, rapini, and smoked Gouda. Meanwhile, the River Bar offers spectacular views and a varied menu of soups, salads and sandwiches.

A must try: the quinoa and spring vegetables with toasted almonds and citrus vinaigrette.

What could possibly outdo all this luxury? The beauty of the natural setting, of course—and letting it wash over you. Give these adventures a try: Book a horseback ride along the beach. Witness the ancient sport of falconry, which is basically hunting by using trained birds of prey. Grab a bike at The Lodge and pedal the five miles across the causeway to The Cloister while you marvel at the salt marsh vistas. Paddle a kayak along the ribbons of waterways that cut a path through the tidal expanses. Or take a walking tour of the those grand oaks planted by chief executives from Coolidge to Clinton, along with royalty from abroad—visitors to a locale that’s surely fit for a king.

Sea Island is just east of Brunswick, Ga., 3½ hours north of Orlando via I-4 and I-95.

Learn about all this coastal spot has to offer at the resort’s website, seaisland.com WEDDED BLISS Weddings are big here, and as Sea Island’s planners say: “We don’t have one perfect place. We have many perfect places.’’ They include a simple chapel with heart pine pews, a garden setting underneath a canopy of oaks, or looking over a golden marsh at sunset.

Numerous packages are available.

Downloadable brochures are at seaisland.com/weddings

28 | ORLANDOMAGAZINE.COM | AUGUST 2019 | PULSE

MEMORABLE MOMENTS Relaxing on a wood-and-wicker swing on a cottage porch listening to a bagpiper at sunset. Getting a simple golf tip that adds considerable distance to a drive. Sitting in front of a crackling fire just before Christmas in The Lodge lobby.

Having a raptor size you up, then swoop in and land perfectly on your gloved hand (okay, an edible reward was offered).

HOLD THE FORT Not that you’ll run out of things to do at Sea Island, but a 15-minute drive north on St. Simons Island are the remnants of Fort Frederica, established in 1736 by James Oglethorpe to protect the southern boundary of his new colony of Georgia from the Spanish in Florida. England won a critical battle near here six years later, ensuring Georgia remained a British colony.

ALL PHOTOS COURTESY OF SEA ISLAND EXCEPT BICYCLE, BY BARRY GLENN

(Clockwise from top left) The relaxing garden atrium at The Spa; the holes of the Plantation course wind their way along the sea and amid tidal pools and old oaks; aerial view of six new cottages and the pool house at The Lodge; a luxurious cottage room; falconry demonstrations provide an upclose experience with birds of prey; along the Avenue of Oaks at The Lodge; bicycling along the causeway between The Lodge and The Cloister provides spectacular views of the coastal salt marsh environment.

PULSE | AUGUST 2019 | ORLANDOMAGAZINE.COM | 29

PULSE STORY OF A…

Rigger John Neal rises to the challenges of “one of the last professions that is physically and cerebrally demanding.”

BY CHERI HENDERSON An early love of heights. “When I was 5 or 6, I took a bunch of bedsheets and wrapped them like a parachute and jumped off a two-story house. I landed in the grass. There was a nail in the grass. Other than that, no injuries.”

He started as a carpenter. Neal became “a little nomadic” after high school, working in the entertainment industry. “In entertainment and theater, you can be a carpenter, a rigger or a lighting person. Carpentry was where I started.” Neal connected with a colleague who was a fellow rock climber. “He said, ‘If you enjoy [climbing], you should get into rigging.’ They gave me a rope and a harness and sent me out.”

The importance of safety checks. Riggers use ropes, pulleys and motors to move heavy equipment into place at construction sites and entertainment venues. They wear full-body harnesses and hard hats to work hundreds of feet in the air on beams or ropes.

It’s important to have “people you work with double-check your gear. You can’t see the connections behind you. Complacency leads to accidents.”

Math matters. Neal describes rigging as extremely physically demanding and mentally challenging. Riggers must ensure that heavy loads are hung safely and weight is distributed properly.

“You have to be good at math. It’s mostly geometry, some trigonometry and a little bit of algebra.”

Watch the hands. “We [communicate using] a combination of radio, hand signals and telepathy. When you work with someone long enough, you understand each other’s body language. If you’re 100 feet away, there’s a lot of noise. Radios can fail. So we rely mostly on hand signals.” When someone high up on a rope does jazz hands, “that means their hands are clear. So when you pull, you’re not going to pinch their hands.”

Barry White to the rescue. Sometimes Neal has to go up on ropes to rescue people in precarious situations. One rescue was at a high-profile location that required discretion to avoid attention from the hundreds of people nearby. Neal calmed the victim “with my best Barry White impression and executed the rescue with the public being none the wiser.”

No room for egos. Ego can lead a rigger to make foolish and potentially deadly decisions, Neal warns. “You’re not the most important person on the job site, but you should want to be the most responsible person on the job site.”

His favorite gig. Neal’s job has allowed him to travel the world.

“My hands-down favorite gig is in the Keys at a small theater with Broadway shows and professional, good people. The Conch Republic is like another country without all the travel. I get to cook the fish I catch at home. I am a true Florida man at heart, after all.”

30 | ORLANDOMAGAZINE.COM | AUGUST SEPTEMBER 20192016 | PULSE | PULSE

ROBERTO GONZALEZ

Life and death. “I’ve lost a few people I knew due to accidents.

Safety becomes personal. I think most people in this industry have either [lost] a friend or they know someone who has passed.

Ninety-nine percent of the time, it’s preventable.”

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PULSE | AUGUST 2019 | ORLANDOMAGAZINE.COM | 31

WE’LL DECK THE HALLS F O R Y O U R H O L I D AY P A R T Y .

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9700 International Drive

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34 | ORLANDOMAGAZINE.COM | AUGUST 2019

“They said it was a wonderful place and people started lining up,” Ross says.

In the decades since, Ross has watched tables grow from newlyweds celebrating their anniversary to the multiple generations that the couple created, all celebrating the original milestone.

Enzo died in 2006, but Ross says the restaurant never strayed from his original vision.

“Enzo was from Rome and wanted to make a restaurant in the style of his hometown so if a Roman came here and had dinner, they would feel right at home.

We really have not deviated from that since we’ve been open,” Ross says. enzos.com

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Community Coffee Spot

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Cuisine That Caught On

ORTY YEARS AGO, ENZO Perlini and wife Jo Anne bought an Italian-style villa on Lake Fairy in Longwood and room by room turned it into Enzo’s on the Lake. They used Perlini’s mother’s recipes—a blend of Roman and Neapolitan cuisine—making everything from scratch with the freshest ingredients. But no one came.

“We sat in the restaurant alone, crying,” recalls Jo Anne Ross, who still runs the restaurant.

They decided to invite everyone they knew to try their fare, which led to a rave review from a local television station.

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Food & drink

College Park Restaurant

Caterer

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Arthur’s C reative Events & C atering

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The Tap Room at

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ROBERTO GONZALEZ

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AUGUST 2019 | ORLANDOMAGAZINE.COM | 35

best of orl 2019

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36 | ORLANDOMAGAZINE.COM | AUGUST 2019

TAPA: ROBERTO GONZALEZ; CELLIER: WALT DISNEY WORLD RESORT

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3 Curry Ford Road

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CAN: ROBERTO GONALEZ; FROGGERS; EL ZOCALO

Winter Park theglassknife.com

Lake Eola is home to 57 swans: 43 royal mutes, seven Australian blacks, four whoopers, two black-necked and one trumpeter. Favorite hangout: the northwestern shore, near the Chinese Ting and the peninsula. Orlando has five of the seven swan species in existence, missing only the Tundra, which lives in the Arctic regions, and the Coscoroba, which thrives in southern South America.

AUGUST 2019 | ORLANDOMAGAZINE.COM | 37

best of orl 2019 Pool Builder

1

Atlas Pools of Central Florida

Oviedo atlaspoolsofcentralfl.com

Pools by Bradley

2 Sanford

poolsbybradley.com

Artesian Pools

3 Orlando

artesianpools.com

Consignment or Resale Shop

1

Avalon Exchange

North Orange Avenue Winter Park avalonexchange.com

Home & Shopping

2 College Park; East

The Center for Biking Happines s

2 Ivanhoe Village

st pl a c e fi r

38 | ORLANDOMAGAZINE.COM | AUGUST 2019

Plato’s C loset

3 Eight Orlando-area locations platoscloset.com

Gift Shop

1

The Primrose Shop Audubon Park @theprimroseshop

papergoatpost.com

op

lege Park. Breed began work there a decade later, following a teaching career. Consequently, the shop values education: helping customers find trails near their home, teaching safety tips and informing them about local group and charity rides.

“My motto is, set a goal, get a group,” Breed says. But any amount of biking can help.

“Biking just a short distance, 15 to 20 minutes, can really improve lives,” she says. “I refer to my car as my climate-controlled capsule, which I really do enjoy but that’s all it is. Whereas you bike and… I don’t know. You’re alive.” orangecycleorlando.com

Kirkland’s

3 Four Orlando-area locations kirklands.com

Home Builder

1

Phil K ean Design Group Winter Park philkeandesigns.com

C harles C layton

2 Construction

Winter Park charlesclayton.com

Z Properties

3 Winter Park

zpropertiesinc.com

ROBERTO GONZALEZ

D

EENA BREED BELIEVES she’s selling happiness.

The Orange Cycle co-owner says that when a customer leaves with the right bicycle, she likes to imagine how it might affect their lives.

“It’s always something good. Some people lose 100 pounds, some people discover a new community,” Breed says.

She recalled a customer who signed up for a charity ride after buying a bike from her and later created her own team.

“She said it completely changed her life,” Breed says.

Breed’s husband, Howard Larlee, opened Orange Cycle in 1972 in Col-

yc l e sh

Colonial Drive dechoesresale.com

Paper Goat Post

Orange cycle bi c

Dechoes Resale

st pl a c e fi r

a

ce

1

Renninger’s Twin Markets

ue

pl

Place for Antiques

s

Renninger’s Twin Markets f or a nti q

Highway 441, Mount Dora renningers.net

Adjectives Market

2 Three Orlando-area locations adjmkt.com

Washburn Imports

3 Three Orlando-area

locations washburnimports.com

Home Décor Store

1

IKEA

Millenia Area, Orlando ikea.com

HomeGoods

2 10 Orlando-area locations

Acres of Antiques

homegoods.com

Pier 1 Imports

3 Seven Orlando-area locations pier1.com

Kitchen & Bath Store

1

Bed, Bath & Beyond

Multiple Orlando-area locations bedbathandbeyond.com

Supreme Kitchen

2 C abinets Orlando South Orlando supremefl.com

Phil K ean Design Group

3 Winter Park

PHIL KEAN DESIGN GROUP; RENNINGER’S: ROBERTO GONZALEZ

philkeandesigns.com

Sw

s a n bi t

Every year, the city does a “swan roundup’’ at the lake. All the birds are examined by a veterinarian and get shots against botulism. Also, their wings are clipped and their weight is checked. Eola’s swans are microchipped and that has led to recovery of the birds when two-legged predators have made off with them.

T

HE ROMANTIC LIGHTING, IN VIOLET, seafoam and magenta hues, fills Donna Ladley’s booth at Renninger’s Antique Center.

The entrepreneur has been making tassel-trimmed lamp shades in dramatically patterned, antique fabrics for 51 years, a trade she learned from her great grandmother.

Ladley’s booth is one of 180 within the 35-year-old Renninger’s Twin Markets, which also includes a flea and farmers market, located on 130 acres in Mount Dora.

Many booths, like Ladley’s, have a niche and represent lifetimes of collection. One booth boasts antique photography, another’s walls are filled with chiming clocks, and several gleam with vintage costume jewelry.

Other booths are a hodgepodge of treasures, such as D & A Antiques. Co-owner Annette Salzarulo has been collecting for 35 years but says her biggest attraction is her 8-year-old Shar-Pei, Taylor, who pokes her head through a knee-high window near the booth’s cash register, hoping customers will feed her treats.

Renninger’s is known for the antique extravaganzas it hosts annually in November, January and February, which draw nearly 800 merchants and enthusiasts from around the country.

“Renninger’s is a destination,” Salzarulo says. renningers.net AUGUST 2019 | ORLANDOMAGAZINE.COM | 39

best of orl 2019

Florist Apopk a Florist

Main Street, Apopka apopkaflorist.com

1

Lee James

2 Floral Designs

Ivanhoe Village leejamesfloral.com

oviedoflorist.com

John C raig C lothier

Winter Park johncraigclothier.com

Men’s Wearhouse

3 Seven Orlando-area

locations menswearhouse.com

Women’s Clothing Store

1

Macy’s

Five Orlando-area locations macys.com

B CB GMAXAZR IA

2 Five Orlando-area locations bcbg.com

Neiman Marcus

3 The Mall at Millenia

neimanmarcus.com

Five Orlando-area locations macys.com

2 Park Avenue,

Oviedo Florist

3 Downtown Oviedo

Macy’s

Mall

1

The Mall at Millenia Conroy Road mallatmillenia.com

The Florida Mall

2 South Orange Blossom Trail simon.com

Bicycle Shop

1

Orange Cycle

College Park orangecycleorlando.com

David’s World Cycle

2 Seven Orlando-area locations davidsworld.com

D2 Endurance

3 Sport & Fitness

Sanford facebook.com/ D2EnduranceSports

Altamonte Mall

3 Altamonte Springs

1

1

Fields Auto Group

Bay Hill Jewelers

Three Orlando-area locations bayhilljewelers.com

Be on Park

2 Park Avenue, Winter Park beonpark.com

International

3 Diamond Center

Four Orlando-area locations shopidc.com

Car Dealer

altamontemall.com

Interior Designer Phil K ean Design Group

Multiple Orlando-area locations fieldsauto.com

1

C arl Black Orlando

2 Downtown Orlando

2 C hevrolet, buick, gmc

East Orlando carlblackoforlando.com

Tesla Orlando

3 North Orlando tesla.com

40 | ORLANDOMAGAZINE.COM | AUGUST 2019

Jeweler

Winter Park philkeandesign.com

Morrone Interiors

morroneinteriors.com

Anne Rue Interiors

3 Sanford

annrue.com

MALL AT MILLENIA; FLORIST: ROBERTO GONZALEZ; JEWELER: EMILY JOURDAN

1

Men’s Clothing Store

AWARD WINNING DESIGN WWW.MORRONEINTERIORS.COM 407.648.9090

best of orl 2019

Spiritual Leader

1

People & Media

Church, Avalon Park c3church.cc

David Uth

3 Senior Pastor at First Baptist Church of Orlando firstorlando.com

st pl a c e fi r

ge

lb

r

CeCe Teneal & Soul Kamotion

n a nd or si

The five-member band has performed nearly 100 shows this year and has tours coming up in Costa Rica, North Carolina, Wisconsin, Pennsylvania and Ohio. Local venues have included The Abbey, Hub 925 and the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. But no matter where they are, the band plays every show like they’re in front of a crowd of thousands, Teneal says.

“We give it all we have,” she says.

The music makes religious references but Teneal says it’s inspirational and confidence-building with a touch of sass, not gospel.

“It’s not empty music. We have something to say,” she says. soulkamotion.com

Community Leader

1

Monica May

Community activist, radio personality, consultant star945.com

Buddy Dyer

2 Orlando Mayor

cityoforlando.net

Harris Rosen

3 Hotelier, philanthropist rosenhotels.com

SOUL KAMOTION; MONICA MAY; WILLIAMS: ROBERTO GONZALEZ

42 | ORLANDOMAGAZINE.COM | AUGUST 2019

Byron Bledsoe

a

A

S SOMEONE WHO HAS battled depression, CeCe Teneal knows the importance of surrounding oneself with people who inspire positivity. That’s what the Orlando resident hopes she and her band, Soul Kamotion, do for their fans: lift their spirits and get them moving, preferably on the dance floor.

“When you get on stage, you don’t know if the people there are mourning something, celebrating something or if they spent their last dime to see you,” says Teneal, Kamotion’s lead singer.

“Someone is there to get something, and you’re the deliverer. It gives me life because I’m making a difference.”

Pastor at Shiloh Baptist Church of Orlando sbcorlando.org

2 Senior Pastor at C3

l oc

What the Kamotion’s Abo ut

Derrick Williams

Orlando’s Golf Course Since 1924

BEST PUBLIC GOLF COURSE COME JUDGE FOR YOURSELF!

BOOK TEE TIMES 407.246.2551 HISTORICALDUBSDREAD.COM

best of orl 2019 Music Radio Station The Wire 98.5 FM

1

thewire985.com

Z88.3 FM

2 zradio.org XL 106.7 FM

3 xl1067.iheart.com Local Radio Show

1

Johnny’s House

2

Monsters in the Morning

XL 106.7 FM xl1067.iheart.com

Social Media Influencer

TV News Team

1

Jim Payne & Meredith McDonough

2

Amy K aufeldt & Bob Frier

2 Miss America 2004,

Greg Warmouth &

3 Bungalower

1

WESH-Channel 2 wesh.com

Go Epicurista goepicurista.com

E rick a Dunlap

Consultant erickadunlap.com

Fox 35 fox35orlando.com

Brendan O’Connor

3 Martha Sugalski

bungalower.com

WFTV-Channel 9 wftv.com

Photographer

1

Real Radio 104.1 FM realradio.iheart.com

Jessie Dee

Orlando jessiedee.net

Patrick Buckley Images

2 Orlando

Mornings With

3 Ellis & Tyler

patrickbuckleyimages.com

Z88.3 FM zradio.org

Hughes Fioretti

3 Photography

Orlando hughesfiorettiphotography.com

Local Podcast

1

C hristina Thomas

A Mediocre Time With Tom & Dan tomanddan.com

Scotch & Good

2 Conversation

scotchandgoodconversation.com

Bungalower & the Bus

3 bungalower.com

Local Band or Singer

Athlete

1

Aaron Gordon

Orlando Magic orlandomagic.com

McK enzie Milton

2 UCF Knights Football ucfknights.com

Alex Morgan

3 Orlando Pride Soccer

orlandocitysc.com/pride

CeCe Teneal & Soul K amotion

soulkamotion.com

TV Weather Forecaster

Naty Vendeta

2 instagram.com/ vendetababy

Jonnie Morgan

3 jonniemorgan.com

1

Tom Terry

WFTV-Channel 9 wftv.com

Amy Sweezey

2 WESH-Channel 2 wesh.com

Tony Mainolfi

3 WESH-Channel 2 wesh.com

TOM AND DAN, ROBERTO GONZALEZ; TERRY: WFTV; GORDON: ORLANDO MAGIC; NEWS TEAM: NATHAN DOBBINS

1

best of orl 2019

st pl a c e fi r

Fun & Leisure

bronze kingdom ar

L

IVING IN LOS ANGELES 40 YEARS ago, Rawlvan Bennett routinely stopped at the same store on his way home from work. And each time he pined for the same African mask.

The mask cost $200. His rent was $300. The store owner said he’d sell it to Bennett for whatever he had in his pocket. He had $50—his food money for the next two weeks.

Today, the mask hangs in Bronze Kingdom, a gallery teeming with 4,000 rotating pieces of African art—dramatic thrones, weapon-wielding warrior statues and cowrie shell-adorned drums—all from Bennett’s private collection or by featured artists.

Bennett later learned that the first mask he purchased hails from the Congo—the same place, he found through DNA testing, that he is from.

“That mask was calling me. I was really searching for my heritage,” he says.

Bennett opened Bronze Kingdom in Fashion Square Mall last year and plans to move to a 30,000-square-foot location on International Drive, where he hopes to offer virtual experiences, an African-based arcade and ultimately, a performing arts center.

“We want Bronze Kingdom to become a cultural destination,” he says. bronzekingdom.com

46 | ORLANDOMAGAZINE.COM | AUGUST 2019

Public Golf Course Dubsdread Golf Course

1

College Park historicaldubsdread.com

Twin Rivers Golf C lub

2 Oviedo

twinriversgolfclub.com

Art Gallery

1

Snap! Space!

East Colonial Drive; East Church Street snaporlando.com

Shingle C reek Golf C lub

CityArts Orlando

3 South Magnolia Avenue facebook.com/ cityartsfactory

Private Golf Course

1

Interlachen Country C lub

Winter Park interlachenccfl.com

Arnold Palmer’s Bay

2 Hill C lub & Lodge bayhill.com

3

The Country C lub of Orlando

countrycluboforlando.com

Orlando Fashion Square bronzekingdom.com

2 Snap! Downtown

3 Rosen Shingle Creek

Orlando shinglecreekgolf.com

Bronze Kingdom African Art Gallery

Museum

1

C harles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art Winter Park morsemuseum.org

Orlando Museum of Art

2 Loch Haven Park omart.org

Orlando Science Center

3 Loch Haven Park osc.org

ROBERTO GONZALEZ

Spectacu lar Kingdom

t g a l l e ry

T HIS IS THE PL ACE

FOR YOU!

Trinity Prep is the No. 1 STEM high school, private high school and college prep school in the Orlando area by NICHE.com.

Check us out at TrinityPrep.org/Admission or call (321) 282-2515

best of orl 2019 Business Hotel The Alfond Inn

1

Downtown Winter Park thealfondinn.com

Grand Bohemian

2 Hotel Orlando

Downtown Orlando grandbohemianhotel.com

The Ritz C arlton

3 Orlando, Grande L akes

Non-Theme Park Attraction

ritzcarlton.com/Orlando

1

Place for a Staycation Four Seasons Resort at Walt Disney World Resort

1

Gatorland

South Orange County gatorland.com

Black Hammock

2 Airboat Rides

Oviedo blackhammockairboatrides.com

fourseasons.com

Walt Disney World

2 disneyworld.

Orlando Science Center

3 Loch Haven Park

disney.go.com

The Ritz C arlton

3 Orlando, Grande L akes

osc.org

ritzcarlton.com/orlando

Place to Get Married Harry P. Leu Gardens

2

C asa Feliz Historic Home & Venue

Orlando leugardens.org

Winter Park casafeliz.us

The Acre Orlando

3 College Park

theacreorlando.com

Performing Arts Group

1

Central Florida Community Arts Orlando cfcarts.com

Orland o Ballet

2 Orlando

orlandoballet.org

ts

1

The Void

(Virtual Reality Experience) Disney Springs thevoid.com

Off International Drive idrivenascar.com

sakcomedylab.com

The Escape Game

The Swan-A-Thon program allows people to contribute toward the purchase of swans, which cost $1,500$4,000. For info, go to orlando.gov and search Swan-A-Thon. Fun fact: Orlando’s most famous swan was Billy, a testy sort who lived at Lake Lucerne from 1910 to 1933. His stuffed self is on display at the Orange County Regional History Center.

48 | ORLANDOMAGAZINE.COM | AUGUST 2019

Movie Theater

I Drive NASCAR

2 (Indoor Go-Kart Track)

Sak Comedy L ab

3 Downtown Orlando

Swa n bi

Entertainment Experience

3 (Escape Room

Experience) International Drive theescapegame.com/orlando

1

Enzian

Maitland enzian.org

Regal Winter Park

2 Village Stadium 20 & RPX Winter Park regmovies.com

Epic Theatres

3 at Lee Vista

South Orlando epictheatres.com

WEDDING: JOSHUAKANEPHOTOGRAPHY.COM; ALFOND INN; ENZIAN: ROBERTO GONZALEZ

1

best of orl 2019

st pl a c e fi r

WORKO UT FOR THE SENSES

C

URTIS HICKMAN OBTAINED THE education that would help him create The VOID, a virtual reality experience, when he was 12 years old.

That’s when he discovered magic theory, which uses psychology to create illusions. As an adult, he performed magic for a decade and worked on teams that created illusions for David Copperfield and Criss Angel. Then he decided to study digital effects.

The VOID—with 11 locations globally, including Disney Springs—uses technology to help immerse guests in the experience. Computer display headgear paired with vests that react to stimuli within the game help people feel what they see.

But The VOID also utilizes the magic theory Hickman learned as a kid.

When guests see lava boiling below a bridge, they also feel radiating heat and smell burning debris. When they see a chair or a wall, both objects really do exist—and creating that sensory confirmation tricks the mind into believing that the fictional things are there, too, such as an approaching Darth Vader in the “Star Wars: Secrets of the Empire” experience.

“I’ve seen all sorts of reactions. People have dropped to the deck. I’ve had people who have tried running from him. It takes a little bit of reality to convince people that he’s actually coming for you,” Hickman says. thevoid.com/locations/ disney-springs-orlando 50 | ORLANDOMAGAZINE.COM | AUGUST 2019

i nc e

p e nt ex

Winter Park Sidewalk Art Festival

1

Park Avenue, Winter Park wpsaf.org

Epcot International

2 Food & Wine Festival Walt Disney World disneyworld. disney.go.com

3

Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival

1

Loch Haven Park orlandofringe.org

Charity Gala

1

Trivia Night

Curtis E arth at Bikes,

Audubon Park bikesbeansandbordeaux.com

Mellow Mushroom

3 Rinehart Road

Sanford mellowmushroom.com

Hats & Heroes Ball

2 Benefits Kids Beating

Cancer Pediatric Transplant Center kidsbeatingcancer.com

Wishmaker’s Ball

3 Benefits Make-A-Wish, granting wishes to children with critical illnesses wishmakersball.com

Various Orlando-area locations graffitijunktion.com

2 Beans & Bordeaux

Runway to Hope Spring Fashion Soiree Benefits children & families affected by pediatric cancer runwaytohope.org

Graffiti Junktion

Live Music Venue

1

Jazz Tastings

Maitland jazztastings.com

House of Blues Orlando

2 Disney Springs houseofblues. com/orlando

The Plaza Live

3 Milk District

plazaliveorlando.com

THE VOID; WINTER PARK SIDEWALK ART FESTIFAL; TRIVIA: ROBERTO GONZALEZ

r

i nm

Festival

er

e nt e

ta

The Void

Thank you, Orlando!

My team and I appreciate the confidence and trust you have shown us, and we look forward to helping you look your best in the years ahead. I am honored by your recognition, and grateful to be a part of the outstanding Central Florida medical community.

ge Park! e l l o C n i w o N 2629 Edgewater Drive

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Orlando, Florida 32804

popeplasticsurgery.com

407.857.6261

best of orl 2019 Nail Salon

1

SizzorS Salon

Oviedo sizzorssalon.com

Stella Luca

2 Two Winter Park locations stellaluca.com

Tipsy Salonbar

3 Winter Park

tipsywinterpark.com

Health & Beauty

Hair Salon

1

Salon Ciseaux

salonciseaux.com

Stella Luca

3 Two Winter Park locations stellaluca.com

Union Park Search Eastside Barbershop on Facebook

Floyd’s 99 Barbershop

2 Six Orlando-area

locations floydsbarbershop.com

3 Winter Park

atomicbarber.co

When feeding swans, stick to leafy greens, or use the vending machines around Lake Eola that dispense swan-friendly food.

Do NOT feed them popcorn, which can cause blockages and kill them. Bread is off limits too. It makes them constipated and can lead to discoloration of feathers. Trivia break: When you see swans in their “butts in the air’’ pose, they’re eating vegetation off the lake bottom.

52 | ORLANDOMAGAZINE.COM | AUGUST 2019

1

YMCA

Multiple Orlando-area locations ymcacentralflorida.com

LA Fitness

2 Multiple Orlando-area

w

locations lafitness.com

S

Atomic Barber Co

Workout Facility/Gym

an bi ts

Planet Fitness

3 Multiple Orlando-area locations planetfitness.com

ROBERTO GONZALEZ

The E astside Barbershop

Oviedo sizzorssalon.com

2 Winter Park

Barber Shop

1

SizzorS Salon

best of orl 2019 Plastic Surgeon

1

Thomas Fiala

Fiala Aesthetics Altamonte Springs plasticsurgeryinflorida.com

George Pope

2 Orlando Plastic

Surgery Center Orlando georgepopemd.com

Institute of

3 Aesthetic Surgery

Three Orlando-area locations instituteofaestheticsurgery.com

1

Orchid Spa & Wellness

2

ReFresh@Mosaic Hair Studio

College Park orchidspaandwellness.com

Ivanhoe Village refreshmosaic.com

Couture Med Spa

3 Three Orlando-area

Tattoo Shop

1

Sandtiger Tattoos

Longwood sandtigertattoos.com

Rise A bove Tattoo

2 Mills 50 District

riseabovetattoo.com

YTL Studios

3 Casselberry

facebook.com/ytlstudios

locations couturemedspa.com

Studio for Body & Soul

1

Studio K

International Drive studiokorlando.com

Orlando Power Yoga

2 Three Orlando-area

locations orlandopoweryoga.com

3

Foxy Fitness Studio & Pole

West Colonial Drive afoxieryou.com

54 | ORLANDOMAGAZINE.COM | AUGUST 2019

Chiropractor

1

Lonnie Meade

39 Health Longwood thirtyninehealth. jimdo.com

C ryoNext Integrative

2 Healthcare

Oviedo & Lake Nona cryonextintegrative.com

Andrew Hull

3 Winter Park

winterparkchiropractor.com

Optician/ Optometrist

1

Mark & K aren Perry

Vision Health Institute Milk District visionsource-visionhealthinstitute.com

Oxford Eyes

2 Ivanhoe Village

oxfordeyes.com

E ola Eyes

3 North Mills Avenue eolaeyes.com

ROBERTO GONZALEZ

Day Spa

best of orl 2019

56 | ORLANDOMAGAZINE.COM | AUGUST 2019

og

g i e d ay

pets—a bone-shaped swimming pool, cushy bedding and double-insulated walls that shield from stressful noises, such as thunderstorms.

Karina says they also treat their staff and clients as they’d want to be treated, which she says creates a loving environment.

“I’ve gone to homes of the clients [to pick up their pet for boarding].

And I’ve been there when they have to put down their dogs,” she says. “You become a part of someone’s family, especially when you see them on a daily basis.” happypawsorlando.com

ca

Preschool

1

StarC hild Academy

Multiple Orlando-area locations starchildacademy.com

L adybird Academy

2 Multiple Orlando-area locations ladybirdacademy.com

The First Academy

3 Orlando

thefirstacademy.org

HAPPY PAWS

K

ARINA PASTRANA SOMEtimes feels judged when out in public discussing her dog’s acupuncture treatments or the fortune she spends on pet food. So she reserves that talk for her customers at Happy Paws Pet Resort— people who can relate.

“These are the parents I don’t feel silly talking with about all the things I do for my pets,” she says. “I found my people.”

Karina and her husband, Michael, opened Happy Paws, a dog boarding facility in east Orlando, in 2008. They decided to treat their canine guests with amenities they’d want for their

Happy Paws Pet Resort D

Refreshing Paws

st pl a c e fi r

re

Kids & Pets

best of orl 2019

1

StarC hild Academy

Multiple Orlando-area locations starchildacademy.com

L ake Highland

2 Preparatory School Orlando lhps.org

The First Academy

3 Orlando

thefirstacademy.org

Private School, 6-8

1

L ake Highland Preparatory School

1

The First Academy

2 Preparatory School

Orlando lhps.org

2 Orlando

thefirstacademy.org

3

Private School, 9-12

Trinity Preparatory School

Winter Park trinityprep.org

L ake Highland Preparatory School Orlando lhps.org

Trinity

Winter Park trinityprep.org

The First Academy

3 Orlando

Place for Baby & Children’s Clothing

1

Tugboat & the Bird

tugboatandthebird.com

babyGAP

3 Three Orlando-area locations gap.com

Summer Camp

1

Multiple Orlando-area locations starchildacademy.com

L adybird Academy

2 Multiple Orlando-area locations ladybirdacademy.com

Orlando Science Center

3 Loch Haven Park osc.org

58 | ORLANDOMAGAZINE.COM | AUGUST 2019

Eight Orlando-area loations carters.com

2 Downtown Winter Park

thefirstacademy.org

StarC hild Academy

C arter’s

Dog Park

1

L ake Baldwin Park

Lakemont Avenue, Winter Park cityofwinterpark.org

Central Winds Park

2 Winter Springs

winterspringsfl.org

West Orange Dog Park

3 Winter Garden

orangecountyfl.net

STARCHILD ACADEMY; DOME, PARK: ROBERTO GONZALEZ

Private School, K-5

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best of orl 2019 Doggie Day Care

1

Happy Paws Pet Resort East Orlando happypawsorlando.com

Ranger’s Pet

2 Outpost & Retreat

Winter Park rangerspetoutpost.com

Pet Paradise Resort

3 Three Orlando-area

locations petparadiseresort.com

Pet Spa & Grooming

1

Ashley’s Pack

South Semoran Boulevard facebook.com/ ashleyspackllc

Happy Paws Pet Resort

2 East Orlando Pet-Friendly Restaurant

Animal Hospital

1

Banfield Pet Hospital

2 Gotha

Oviedo tuscawillaoaksah.com

2 Multiple Orlando-area locations banfield.com

Grand Oaks Pet Hospital

3 Dr Phillips area

plushpawsinc.com

Oviedo; Lee Vista area rockandbrews.com

Yellow Dog E ats

yellowdogeats.com

The Sanctum

3 Fern Creek Avenue

thesanctumcafe.com

grandoakspethospital.com

Specialty Pet Store

1

Plush Paws

3 College Park

Woof Gang Bakery

Multiple Orlando-area locations woofgangbakery.com

PetSmart

2 Multiple Orlando-area locations petsmart.com

All 4 Pets

3 Four Orlando-area

locations all4petsorlando.com

60 | ORLANDOMAGAZINE.COM | AUGUST 2019

Sw

s a n bi t

Swan boats have glided along Lake Eola in some form since the 1920s. These days they are self-powered (via pedals), and there are eight, including one that is wheelchair accessible.

Each regular boat holds five people, while the accessible boat holds three, including the wheelchair’s occupant. Boats are available starting at 10 a.m. daily on the west side of the park across from Relax Grill. Rental fee is $15 per half-hour.

ROBERTO GONZALEZ

1

Rock & Brews

Tuscawilla Oaks Animal Hospital

Nom Nom!

happypawsorlando.com

We are grateful and honored to be voted Orlando’s #1 Home Builder, #1 Interior Designer and #3 Kitchen & Bath by Orlando Magazine readers. www.PHILKEANDESIGNS.com | 407.599.3922 | AA26002050 | CRC1327855 | ID6290

The Attic Door Tea Room & Wine Bar The perfect space for private parties, birthdays, bridal showers and baby showers.

Join us for traditional Afternoon Tea with fresh-baked scones and house clotted cream, finger sandwiches, savories and delicious desserts! Vegetarian and gluten free options available. Visit jrsatticdoor.com or call us at 407-750-7063 to reserve your spot!

28 W. PLANT ST., DOWNTOWN WINTER GARDEN, FL 34787 AUGUST 2019 | ORLANDOMAGAZINE.COM | 61

Discover the unsearchable Discover the forest

Find a trail near you at DiscoverTheForest.org

lake highland preparatory school

Success

Starts Here

Lake Highland Preparatory School is located on a beautiful 42-acre campus and is nestled in a scenic enclave of downtown Orlando. Here, PreK through 12th-grade students receive a remarkable education and unique opportunities to learn and lead. Ingenuity is inspired in the classroom, and our nationally ranked academics, arts, and athletics prepare students to excel in college and beyond.

We invite you to tour our campus, see our extraordinary facilities, experience our atmosphere of love and respect, and envision your child’s success starting at Lake Highland.

central florida’s SCHOOL OF OPPORTUNITY

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Voted #1

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Thank you for voting Studio K

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Named as the studio where “pop culture meets dance and fitness,” Studio K offers the largest variety of dance and fitness classes for adults of all levels of ability ages 15 and up! See the schedule online at: www.studiokorlando.com/events 11951 International Drive S.| 2A3 and 2A4 Orlando, FL 32821 | 407-778-4607 AUGUST 2019 | ORLANDOMAGAZINE.COM | 65

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

ORLANDO MAGAZINE PRESENTS

Living Well Here, you’ll find pertinent health information and professional opinions from the area’s finest medical experts in our exclusive Q&A’s.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Living Well

What are the latest advancements in cosmetic dentistry?

Elena C. Puig, DMD, PA Dynamic Smile Design ABOUT DR. PUIG With over 25 years of experience, Dr. Puig is a leader in comprehensive dentistry, specializing in restorative, implant and cosmetic treatment solutions. Dr. Puig completed her extensive education in dentistry by earning a Bachelor of Science from University of Central Florida, Doctor of Medical Dentistry from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine and postgraduate studies at the Dawson Academy. Dr. Puig and the Dynamic Smile Design team employ the very latest in digital technology & imaging to ensure patients not only get fantastic results, but also an enjoyable and streamlined experience.

A: The blending of technology and artistry has completely changed the type of dentistry we can now offer. We are living in a digital age and dentistry is no exception. Today, digital workflow is all the buzz in both cosmetic and restorative dental procedures. High-powered cameras combined with high-definition digital impression scanners allow us to fully capture a three-dimensional, true-color impression of the entire mouth, recording shade, shape, texture, translucency and light reflection of the teeth and soft tissues. This information is transmitted to the laboratory team, which uses its own advanced equipment to create a digital design. From this digital design, the dentist and technician are able to design a smile digitally and overlay the full face photo onto the virtual smile design.

CONTACT INFORMATION 1600 Hillcrest St. Orlando, FL 32803 Phone: 407-641-2213 Website: dsdorlando.com

This smile design can be articulated to mimic the normal functions of the jaw, such as forward and sideway movements, allowing the dentist to virtually evaluate both the function and the esthetics of the design.

Once the design is approved, the technician can then print the digital design models using a 3-D printer. The model serves as a prototype for porcelain restorations. The dentist prepares the teeth and uses the template for temporary restorations. From there the restorations are milled or pressed from high-strength porcelain. Finishing is completed by hand cutting and layering the porcelain. This integration of technology and hand artistry allows dentists to provide predictable and beautiful, lifelike porcelain crown, bridge, veneer and implant restorations to either blend in with the natural teeth or create a whole new smile.

AFTER BEFORE

68 | ORLANDOMAGAZINE.COM | AUGUST 2019

AFTER BEFORE

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Living Well

How has CEREC technology revolutionized dentistry?

Southpark Dental Group

Leah Ladley, DDS; Yadiris Reiter, DMD; Jesse Edwards, DMD; John Cervenka, DDS; Diana Gomez, DMD; Shauna Gaumer Coen, DMD ABOUT US Southpark Dental Group has been treating dental needs in Central Florida for over 25 years. Our services include crowns, veneers and implants utilizing CEREC and Cone Beam technologies, cleanings, tooth-colored fillings, bridges, partials, dentures, extractions, root canals, snore appliances, and LightWalker Laser procedures. In addition, we offer ZOOM Whitening, Invisalign and Laser periodontal treatment including LANAP. CONTACT INFORMATION 8801 Commodity Circle Orlando, FL 32819 Phone: 407-248-0100 Email: info@southparkdentalgroup.com Website: southparkdentalgroup.com

A: Among the newest advances in dental technology, Southpark Dental Group offers CEREC all porcelain crowns and veneers in a single visit. There are only a few offices that offer this convenient technology. CEREC technology has revolutionized dentistry by enabling a crown, veneer, or bridge to be milled and put in place within a couple of hours on the same day. Our patients no longer need to schedule a second appointment to place their permanent crown, veneer, or bridge. In addition we have an onsite laboratory to fabricate bridges, implant crowns, and shade matching. At the forefront of cutting edge technology, Dr. John Cervenka is a pioneer in CEREC dentistry using and teaching it for over 16 years. Now our group of highly trained CEREC doctors has grown to include Dr. Shauna Coen, Dr. Yadiris Reiter, Dr. Diana Gomez, and Dr. Jesse Edwards.

Q: What sets Southpark Dental Group apart?

A: Our state of the art dental practice strives to make patients feel as comfortable as possible. In addition to our caring and compassionate staff we have added heated massaging chairs to each treatment room. The picture

window view of our tranquil garden makes patents feel like they are at the spa.

Our mission is to provide patients with cutting edge technology to ensure healthy teeth and gums. Another thing that distinguishes our office is convenient early morning, late evening, and Saturday office hours.

Q: I have been diagnosed with mild sleep apnea and I cannot tolerate the C-Pap machine that has been prescribed. I was wondering if there are any alternative appliances that were new technology that can help?

A: For years, Southpark Dental Group has made mandibular advancement appliances to treat sleep apnea and snoring. We have recently introduced the Fotona Laser to our practice that can reduce snoring and open the upper airway as well. The treatment takes a few appointments. Numbing isn’t necessary and there is no downtime afterward. The laser penetrates deep into the tissue to stimulate collagen production. It tightens and firms the collapsed tissue allowing for more airflow and reduction in vibrating tissue.

AFTER BEFORE

AFTER BEFORE

AUGUST 2019 | ORLANDOMAGAZINE.COM | 69

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Living Well

What other ailments can Chiropractic treatment help with?

Dr. Andrew J. Hull Winter Park Chiropractor ABOUT US Dr. Hull graduated from the University of Florida, then after attended Palmer College of Chiropractic. Dr. Hull is a member of the Winter Park Chamber of Commerce. Currently serving as Vice President of the Central Florida Chiropractic Society which is the central Florida chapter of the Florida Chiropractic Association.

He is also a member of the American Chiropractic Association.

A: There are many reasons to see a chiropractor other than neck and back pain relief. Chiropractic care is a safe and natural way to help aid the body in healing itself.

Adjustments can be used for the recovery of chronic ear infections, PMS, stress, headaches, migraines, and irritable bowel syndrome to name a few. Chiropractic care can also help boost your immune system, improve your digestion, increase your energy, improve your breathing and help aid in creating a healthier environment for women in pregnancy.

CONTACT INFORMATION 305 North Lakemont Avenue Winter Park, FL 32792 Phone: 407-339-2225 Website: WinterParkChiropractor.com

Q: What makes your office a Winter Park favorite?

Accepts most major insurance.

A: Our highly trained team provides our patients with consistent, exceptional customer service. It’s all about the private, customized, personal experience in our office that makes us a Winter Park favorite. From the moment you enter our office, you are greeted with a warm smile in an inviting and soothing atmosphere.

You are then taken to a private treatment room where you can escape and relax while our Chiropractic Assistants perform healing therapies to help your

70 | ORLANDOMAGAZINE.COM | AUGUST 2019

body prepare for the adjustment. Next, you are greeted by your doctor and given the adjustment while allowing time for any health questions. We feel that higher quality service and incomparable atmosphere allows our patients to connect with our practice and to feel confident that they chose the right doctor and treatment facility.

Q: Why should I see Dr. Hull after a car accident?

A: Whether you’ve been in a fender bender or a major collision, your car is not the only thing that took a beating. At Winter Park Chiropractor we specialize in providing timely and effective chiropractic care for patients who have been in an auto accident. Due to Florida laws you only have 14 days to seek medical treatment or you forfeit your medical coverage benefits. Following an auto accident many people experience neck pain, low back pain, or even concussion symptoms.

If you have recently been in a car accident, your first call should be to Dr. Hull for a thorough orthopedic and neurological examination and treatment.

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1 in 6 children face hunger.

There’s more than enough food in America for every child who struggles with hunger. Help get kids the food they need by supporting Feeding America, the nationwide network of food banks. Together, we can solve hunger™.

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DINE R E VI E W • R ECO M M EN D ED E ATI N G

ROBERTO GONZALEZ

PAGE 74

RITE OF FRIENDSHIP

At Nile restaurant, coffee service is turned into a unique social ritual. It’s one of many things to love about this I-Drive spot, which boasts Ethiopian cooking accented by an array of otherworldly spices.

DINE REVIEW

At Nile, owner Abeba Gonetse makes the coffee service a ceremony of respect and friendship.

The flavors at Nile, a 13-year mainstay of I-Drive, remains a dazzling discovery, with beef, chicken and vegetable dishes enhanced by otherworldly spices.

BY JOSEPH HAYES

NILE ETHIOPIAN RESTAURANT 7048 International Drive 407-354-0026 nileorlando.com Entrees: $10.95-15.95

P

PERCHED AT THE top end of International Drive, in a part of town not quite as high end as its neighbors closer to the Convention Center, Nile is not the Orlando area’s first Ethiopian restaurant.

Blue Nile enticed our palates in the mid-1980s (the owners now operate a Blue Nile in Michigan); Sabina popped in and out of the scene in the late ’90s; Abyssinia Ethiopian Restaurant carried on in an Orange Blossom Trail location from 1999 to 2000. But it took the advent of Nile opening in 2006 to gift us with a lasting presence of wat, injera and strong black coffee.

Owner Abeba Gonetse says that during holidays in Orlando she would field several questions a day about the lack of a good local Ethiopian eatery. “It came to my mind,” she says, “that Orlando needed a different restaurant. I worked as an accountant in Addis Ababa, but I like to open my home and to cook. So why not?”

Gonetse is quick to mention that her restaurant’s take on Ethiopian food is organic and made from scratch. Spices are “from back home,” as is the flour for the great staple of the cuisine, injera bread.

The restaurant itself may not present the best of fronts, tucked to the side of a mall with a hookah lounge and Irish pub as neighbors (the not-a-chance-in-hell Orlando Sling Shot ride is across the street).

But once you’re inside, it is a warm, inviting and very fragrant environment. Woven baskets and posters of the rock churches at Lalibela line the terra cotta colored walls; on a platform by the window is the makings of the famous coffee ceremony—more on that later.

A concise culinary vocabulary is sufficient to narrow down your choices, a rhythmic poetry of rich, flavorful food. Kitfo ($13.95) is

74 | ORLANDOMAGAZINE.COM | AUGUST 2019 | DINE

beef tartare, blended in chili pepper, cardamom and cloves and perfumed with clarified butter seasoned by an exotic bounty: cumin, coriander, nutmeg, fenugreek and sacred basil. Plain raw beef this isn’t. Served with the ubiquitous injera, a fermented sourdough flatbread made from an ancient African grass called teff, it is a dish that demands contemplative eating.

You’ll also love the percussively named fitfit ($6.50), a simple salad of torn injera, tomato, pepper and onion in lemon dressing.

The cuisine centers around beef, chicken and vegetables, all enhanced by an array of spices, both indigenous and borrowed from foreign cultures for centuries. The medicinal Ethiopian pepper that was used in ancient Rome before the discovery of black peppercorns, the basil-like

ROBERTO GONZALEZ

Ethiopian Excellence

SEAFOOD HIT

ROBERTO GONZALEZ; GRILLED SHRIMP ROLL: SLAPFISH

Injera (in basket) is the staple of a meal at Nile, accompanying dishes with fantastic flavors, including the chef’s combination (left).

verbena plant called koseret, black tikur azmud cumin and the seeds of a ginger plant called korarima join forces with Iranian ajwain caraway, strongly scented Bengali radhuni fruits and Asian fenugreek in sophisticated combinations. You cannot imagine these flavors without sampling them.

Historians point to Ethiopia as the birthplace of butchering and cooking meat, and the Amharic language still has multiple words for cuts and preparations of beef.

Tibs, a way of stewing stir-fried meat, lends its name to sautéed zilzil strips and godin spicy short ribs. Gored gored, like kitfo, is served raw, but in chunks instead of ground. You’ll find the word wat on beef and chicken dishes, referring to a richly seasoned, slow-cooked stew.

Too many enticing choices, so Nile makes it easy: the Chef’s Special Combination for two

($29.95). The plate arrives concealed by a hand-woven wicker basket, uncovered to present an artist’s palette of colorful menu items placed upon a circle of injera bread with more alongside. Don’t make a rookie mistake by tearing off big pieces to pinch and hold the selections—just use a little, or you’ll fill up on bread rather than these amazing dishes. And it is customary to use your right hand, please. Chicken doro wat stew in red pepper sauce; doro alicha (the mild version); beef alicha in turmeric; the flavorful beef tibs; along with gomen cabbage cooked in garlic and ginger; collard greens; pink misir wat lentils; and yellow kik split peas—all are presented in enticing colors and interesting textures.

Awaze sauce—house made honey wine, oil and the heaven that is berbere spice, a blend of ingredients that rivals Mexican mole in complexity—can be judiciously sprinkled on everything.

With the meal done, ask for coffee. The arabica bean is the most widely consumed coffee in the world, and it is native to Ethiopia, Africa’s largest producer. In the restaurant, green beans are hand roasted in a flat pan over hot coals, ground in a pestle and brewed in a black clay pot called a jebena. Poured into small cups, the coffee is usually consumed with a generous amount of sugar, and the ceremony, even in a restaurant setting, is considered a symbol of respect and friendship.

“My customers are like my family,” Abeba Gonetse says.

“They are everything to me.”

It’s good to be treated like family, and enjoy such fascinating flavors.

Culture Club

IN THE LAND of Bonefish, Moonfish and Paddlefish, the name Slapfish shouldn’t raise an eyebrow. “Fish so fresh you could slap it” is the inspiration, and chef/owner Andrew Gruel delivers the seafood-swatting goods.

Gruel, a New Jersey boy with a culinary degree from Johnson & Wales University, made his reputation in California with a transient fleet of food trucks, transitioning to a converted bagel shop in 2012.

Slapfish has a focus on lesser-known species like hoki, Chesapeake Bay blue catfish and char. “We deal directly with fisherfolk,” Gruel says, “and we allow our franchisees (there are 21 branches currently) to buy what they want locally.”

Gruel’s taste for the fresh and unexpected exceeds most expectations of “fast casual.” Chowder fries ($7) are a hit—French fries topped with house-made New England (read: white) clam chowder and bacon. Then there’s “clobster” mac ’n cheese ($15), commingling lobster and crab on scratchmade sourdough with Muenster cheese. Maine lobster is highlighted, featured in a luscious lobster roll, a grinder with shrimp and crab, and the surf & turf burger (ranging from $15 to market price).

Sourcing is posted proudly on the wall, but whether you’re an ecosystem advocate or just want some really good seafood, Slapfish is the place. 783 N. Alafaya Trail, Orlando. slapfishrestaurant.com —J.H.

Echoing the woven basket covers that unveil the entrée combination platter are mesob wicker tables, nestled in straw hut booths along one side of Nile and designed for multi-course meals shared by family. The serving tables, a gift of the Harari culture, have been made since the 13th century from dried grasses and straw by Ethiopian Islamic and Jewish women, and the ancient patterns tell stories of culture, religion and traditions.

DINE | AUGUST 2019 | ORLANDOMAGAZINE.COM | 75

DINE REVIEW

A signature Bird of Paradise creation from Emily Rankin (right) is ceviche in a spicy, citrusy marinade.

Emily Rankin’s East End Market space offers healthy goodness with a tropical flair, from citrusy ceviche to various bowls accented by greens or rice.

BY JOSEPH HAYES

BIRD OF PARADISE East End Market 3201 Corrine Drive 407-790-7758 birdofparadisefl.com Menu: $10-$28

F

FOOD PIONEER EMILY Rankin and I have crossed within the same spaces for years, but our encounter at her East End Market restaurant, Bird of Paradise, was our first sitdown conversation.

Her first words were “Can I feed you?”

Rankin is a culinary chameleon. Her business face, and East End Market space, has morphed from Local Roots Farm Store, to Florida & Co., and now to Bird of Paradise. It’s been a patient and educational evolution.

In a tropics-meets-Florida atmosphere, punctuated by its hand-hewn wooden bar and pastel mural (painted by Rankin), food and beverages are served that reflect what she refers to as a healthy, clean way of eating. There’s style and brightness to the food, with its use of coconut nectar sweetener and seasonal roasted vegetables.

Every main ingredient is vegan, prepared gluten and dairy free, and without refined sugars or honey.

Those who desire meat can add seafood, chicken or pork.

Ceviche ($15) bathes wild Florida fish (red snapper when

76 | ORLANDOMAGAZINE.COM | AUGUST 2019 | DINE

available) in a spicy, citrusy marinade reminiscent of Peruvian leche de tigre, served with a brunoise of peppers and onion upon local greens. Several bowls shine, including the popular Florida bowl ($15), a charming arrangement of greens and pickled vegetables on Jupiter brown rice from Congaree & Penn in Jacksonville, accented with a choice of Florida wild shrimp, roasted pork or tempeh.

I also tried a sesame ginger bowl (also $15), Asian sauce coating purple cabbage, carrots and kale, served with shrimp, pork or tempeh. The organic, non GMO tempeh from Gainesville’s Tempeh Shop has an extraordinary texture and flavor, and it’s a pleasure to have discovered it.

Rankin started life surrounded by fine dining: her mother was a server at Park Plaza Gardens and at Royal Orleans, owned by restaurateur Robert Earl. Her stepdad was Royal Orleans’ manager.

“I was folding napkins at 4,” she says. “I was saying ‘presentation is everything’ in second grade.”

Growing up, she wanted to be an architect or a fashion

Drinks of Paradise Rankin’s passion extends to beverages as well. You’ll find Florida beers and ciders on tap, small producer wines like Ken Wright pinot noir from Oregon, and local shrubs and kombucha from Smiling Goat and Humble Bumble, along with wine cocktails like the Hibiscus Rose (hibiscus tea, coconut rose syrup, coconut milk, ginger, lemon and rose wine), mimosas and “mocktails.”

ROBERTO GONZALEZ

Paradise Found

designer. Then, at a green-building conference, she listened to speakers who said that “if you support the local food system, vast changes can be made. And it clicked for me,” Rankin says.

“I can take food and transform community. This is my gift.”

After a journey to farms in Nicaragua, she decided to come home. “I felt like I needed to do community development in the community I was raised in.” In 2008 she started the still-thriving, local vendors-only Audubon Park Community Market. “I saw it as a point of leverage … if you do one little thing, it will incubate all these other ideas.” She also developed the nonprofit Progressive Local Alliance for Community Enrichment, the Ourlando Local First campaign with activist Julie Wilder, and the makings of the Audubon Park Garden District initiative. A food distribution company followed; then a conversation with John Rife led to her participation in Harvest Festival and a space in his East End Market project.

“I named the eatery Bird of Paradise,” Rankin says, “the message [being] for people to live a better life by eating healthy. It all ties into physical, mental and spiritual health—to have the opportunity to live in paradise.”

DINE SAVOR THIS

★N

FEATEW★ URE DI JOSNING CR E ITI PH FA VOR HAY C ITE B ES’ ITES

THE POKE BURGER at PokeKai, in the À La Cart food park east of downtown, is an ingenious handheld that uses a pressed and grilled rice “bun” instead of bread to hold chunks of tuna doused in multispice togarashi sauce, lettuce and seaweed salad. —J.H. 78 | ORLANDOMAGAZINE.COM | AUGUST 2019 | DINE

ROBERTO GONZALEZ

The Poke Burger

ARE YOU READY TO SAVOR ORLANDO? Orlando magazine’s weekly blog featuring its noted dining critic, Joseph Hayes, focuses on the area’s wide array of delectable dining options. From fine dining to local hot spots, interviews with top chefs and innovators, reviews and more, Savor Orlando is your hub for all things food in Central Florida. To partner with Orlando magazine on an upcoming blog or to read Joseph’s latest post, go to orlandomagazine.com/savororlando

DINE RECOMMENDED EATING

Key to Symbols

Meals:

Pricing:

Other Symbols:

B BR L D

$ Dinner entrées under $10 $$ Dinner entrées $10-$15 $$$ Dinner entrées $15-$25 $$$$ Dinner entrées more than $25

%

Breakfast Brunch Lunch Dinner

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2019 Dining Award winner Reservations recommended Extensive wine list Preferred Dining Partner

Most restaurants listed here are recommended by an Orlando magazine dining critic. Others are marked as winners of our critic and readers’ 2019 Dining Awards and/or as recent advertisers. This list is offered as a reader service and is not intended to be comprehensive.

Although we make every effort to keep the listings current, they are subject to change without notice.

AFRICAN

over a few years ago, but the incredible views and abundant wine selections have ramained. The menu changes daily, but some things are constant: Pork Two Ways features grilled tenderloin and pork belly served with goat cheese polenta; the beef filet from the searing wood oven is also a standout. There’s a 10- to 14-course sushi bar extravaganza nightly for a limited number of diners. $$$$ Ẃ

Jiko-The Cooking Place Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, 2901 Osceola Parkway, Lake Buena Vista 407-939-3463. disneyworld.disney.go.com D nightly.

Wood-burning ovens and traditional cooking styles infuse Jiko with the diverse flavors of Africa. Everything on the exotic menu, from East African curries to Moroccan savory pastries, will please. $$$$ Ẃ

%Chef’s Table at the Edgewater 99 W. Plant St, Winter Garden 407-230-4837. chefstable-attheedgewater.com D nightly. Kevin and Laurie Tarter’s restaurant has ruled the chef’s table category for more than a decade and 2019 was no exception, as it captured the top pick from our readers. Chef de Cuisine David Lampman came to Chef’s Table in 2009 and is now the main hand in the kitchen, executing Tarter’s culinary vision with plates of lowcountry perloo, New Orleans-influenced fish, and fork-tender osso buco. $$$$ Ẃ

Boma-Flavors of Africa Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, 2901 Osceola Parkway, Lake Buena Vista 407939-3463. disneyworld.disney.go.com B, D daily. At buffet-style Boma, African-influenced foods span the continent from the Mediterranean to South Africa. To their credit, chefs at Boma prepare every item fresh every day. The breakfast selctions are superb. $$$ 

Sanaa Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, Kidani Village 2901 Osceola Parkway, Lake Buena Vista 407939-3463. disneyworld.disney.go.com. L-D daily.

Sanaa’s focus on the foods of East Africa makes for a mouth-watering trip. Flavors of India, Portugal and Europe infuse the menu, with many dishes served as multi-item samplers. Pair the short ribs or the smoky, mildly spicy perfection of tandoori chicken with littleknown wines from Indian vineyards. $$$ Ẃ

AMERICAN

903 Mills Market 903 S. Mills Ave., Orlando 407-8984392. 903millsmarketcafe.com B-L-D daily. This simple little neighborhood eatery is a great place to stop in for the “EMT,’’ an award-winning sandwich that’s a concoction of breaded eggplant, melted mozzarella, sliced tomatoes and pesto served in a toasted club roll. 903 also has a selection of 100 craft beers, along with weeknight dinner specials, including Meatloaf Mondays. $ Ace Café Orlando 100 W. Livingston St., Orlando 407-996-6686. acecafeusa.com L-D daily; BR Sun. Happy Hour, runs from 5 to 7 p.m. weekdays. And with car or motorcycle “meets’’ most every night— from Mustangs to Mopars, hot rods to Harleys—the hours are even happier (Thursday is Bike Night).

Inside, Ace’s menu is classic American, with Buffalo wings, meatloaf, and all manner of burgers. $$ %Beth’s Burger Bar 25145 S. Orange Ave., Edgewood 407-888-1190; 9938 Universal Blvd., Orlando 407-203-8100. bethsburgerbar.com L-D daily. Winner of the Dining Awards’ Readers’ Choice for Best Local Burger the past four years. Owner Beth Steele and her crew offer an impressive array of mouthwatering creations in an informal, welcoming atmosphere.

The Peanut Butter Burger is truly tasty, topped with grilled onions, cheddar cheese and A1 sauce. And if you dare, order the Double D Challenge—a four-patty burger featuring eight slices of bacon and five different cheeses. Win a T-shirt if you finish it! $-$$ California Grill Disney’s Contemporary Resort 4600 North World Drive, 15th Floor, Lake Buena Vista 407939-3463. disneyworld.disney.go.com D nightly. The venerable Disney gem underwent a major make-

Earls Kitchen+Bar The Mall at Millenia, 4200 Conroy Road, Orlando 407-345-8260. earls.ca L-D daily BR Sat.-Sun. This upscale casual chain offers delicious diversity in its menu. Try the avocado “Super Toast,’’ the combo platter of ribs and chicken, the bacon cheddar burger, or the Korean bibimbap of fresh and pickled veggies in a stone rice bowl. The cocktail menu includes Bees Knees, a concoction of Aviation gin, Cointreau, bitters, lemon and honey. $$-$$$ Ẃ Everglades Restaurant Rosen Centre 9840 International Drive, Orlando 407-996-9840 ext. 3610. evergladesrestaurant.com D nightly. Nestled in a sprawling hotel complex and aimed at celebrating regional Florida food, Everglades specializes in prime steaks and seafood as well as more unusual items such as gator chowder and marinated buffalo. $$$ Ẃ %Farm & Haus 3201 Corrine Drive, Orlando 321-4306627. farmandhaus.com B-L-D daily. Winner of the 2019 Readers’ Choice for Best Healthy Selections and Best Takeout. Patrick and Brittany Lyne operate the brick and mortar part of their enterprise at the East End Market, with offerings such as a sesame noodle bowl, kale & white bean soup, and a honey butter chicken biscuit. Recently the dinner service has expanded into a mobile truck operation around Baldwin Park. Sign up, you’ll get a text when they’re in the area and you can order from that night’s menu and have it delivered to your door. $-$$ Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers 3200 S. Orange Ave., 8107 Vineland Road. freddysusa.com Open daily. It’s simply a skinny steakburger on a toasted bun, but pleases the palate: Freddy’s captured our Critic’s Pick for Best Burger in the 2018 Dining Awards, as well as the Judges’ Choice in our inaugural Burger Battle in 2017. The frozen custard is a delight too, as are the Nutter Butter ice cream sandwiches. $ %The Glass Knife 276 S. Orlando Ave, Winter Park 407-500-2253. theglassknife.com B-L-D daily, 7 a.m.10 p.m.; BR Sat.-Sun. Winner of the 2019 Readers’ Choice Awards for Best Desserts and Best Independent Bakery, this is a sleek yet approachable haven

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for those in search of both sweet and savory. Start the day with doughnuts, an avocado and egg toast, or a cheddar biscuit sandwich. Lunch standouts include the turkey bacon club and the berry bacon spinach salad. In the evening, enjoy Southern red velvet or carrot cake, and European-style pastries along with fine wines, craft beers and champagne. You might be unable to resist taking home one of The Glass Knife’s gorgeous cakes. $$ Graffiti Junktion 700 E. Washington St., Thornton Park 407-426-9503; 2401 Edgewater Drive, Orlando 407-377-1961 and eight other Orlando area locations. graffitijunktion.com L-D daily; BR Sun. Graffiti Junktion specializes in burgers. Items like the Iron City Burger (topped with a fried egg and Canadian bacon among more traditional toppings like American cheese and onions) are complemented by daily happy hour specials and themed nights throughout the week. $-$$ %Greens & Grille 4104 Millenia Blvd. #114, Orlando 407-770-1407 greensandgrille.com L-D daily. Voted Best Salads by our readers in the 2019 Dining Awards, this popular spot in a strip center next to the Mall at Millenia offers an abundance of signature salads, from the Summer Sweets (Romaine, spring mix, cucumbers, slices apples, orange segments, candied almonds and dried cranberries) to the The Fall (spring mix, sweet peas, grilled onions, dice beets, roasted potatoes and goat cheese). You can also “make your own’’ and there’s a wide selections of sammies available too. $ %Hillstone 215 S. Orlando Ave., Winter Park 407740-4005. hillstone.com L-D daily. Grilling is king here, whether the choice is steak, fish, chops or chicken. The hardwood-grilled trout, pork ribs and cheeseburger are standouts—as is the lakeside setting, which puts Hillstone at the top among readers nearly every year in the categories of Outdoor Dining and View. $$-$$$$ Ẃ %Keke’s Breakfast Café Multiple Orlando-area locations. kekes.com B-L daily. Voted Best Breakfast by readers for the past four years, this Orlando-based chain has more than a dozen local outlets offering a wide selection of pancakes (enormous), waffles, French toast, omelets, egg combos and more. $ Marlow’s Tavern Five Orlando-area locations. marlowstavern.com L-D daily. This cozy tavern puts a gourmet spin on classic American cuisine and offers a wide selection of beers. Try one of their popular cheeseburgers, the blackened fish tacos, or white cheddar shrimp and grits. Among the desserts is the fried banana split. $$ %Maxine’s on Shine 337 N. Shine Ave., Orlando 407674-6841. maxinesonshine.com L Fri.-Sun.; D Tue.Sun.; BR Sun. This casual bistro is full of quirky charm, with a menu ranging from bar snacks to full entrees emphasizing seafood. Outdoor seating, live music, an interesting wine list and the presence of delightful

proprietors add up to everything you should expect from a local restaurant. Winner of the 2019 Readers’ Choice for Neighborhood Restaurant and a new inductee into the Dining Hall of Fame. $$-$$$. Ẃ Omelet Bar 2250 Strategy Blvd., Orlando 407-7041597. omeletbar.com B-L daily, BR Sun. This eatery across from UCF shines with overstuffed build-yourown omelets, a pancake bar, breakfast bread bowls and a three-way chicken and waffles “flight.” Lobster Benedict and unlimited mimosas make for a pleasant Sunday brunch. $-$$ Orlando Meats 728 Virginia Drive, Orlando 407-5980700. orlandomeats.com B-L Tue.-Sat.; BR Sun. It’s a hands-on full-service butcher shop but a great place for breakfast and lunch as well. Not wasting anything, Orlando Meats’ potato chips are fried in beef tallow.

The menu includes a fried turkey bologna sandwich (with yellow mustard on white bread); and the beef, meatloaf and burgers are roasted, baked or ground on premises. For breakfast, the offerings include the Blarney Stone: corned beef, sauerkraut, corned mayo, Swiss, and fried egg on a bagel. Winner of Best Burger from both the judges and the public in our 2018 Burger Battle. $-$$ The Ravenous Pig 565 W. Fairbanks Ave., Winter Park 407-628-2333. theravenouspig.com L-D daily.

Chefs Julie and James Petrakis, both Orlando-area natives who trained at the Culinary Institute of America, showcase the “gastropub” phenomenon with an ever-changing menu that includes fare like seared foie gras, pork porterhouse, mushroom cannelloni and the Ellensburg Lamb Noisette with royal trumpet mushrooms. $$$ Ẃ RusTeak 2625 Edgewater Drive, Orlando 407-5401100 rusteakwinebar.com L-D Mon.-Sat. This popular College Park gathering place boasts a prodigious range of offerings, from steaks and flatbreads to tasty burgers and salads. RusTeak offers a sizable wine list and a wide variety of craft cocktails. $$-$$$. Ẃ Seasons 52 Plaza Venezia, 7700 Sand Lake Road, Dr. Phillips 407-354-5212; 463 E. Altamonte Drive, Altamonte Springs 407-767-1252. seasons52.com L-D daily. Like the food it serves, this Darden upscale chain remains as fresh as the day it opened. Most dishes are under 475 calories, and what flavorful calories they are: from the caramelized sea scallops with lemon risotto and roasted asparagus, to the wood-roasted pork tenderloin with sweet potato mash and spring vegetables. The wine list is just as impressive. $$$ Ẃ Se7en Bites 617 N. Primrose Drive, Orlando 407-2030727. se7enbites.com B-L Tue.-Sun. Baker and pie maker Trina Gregory-Propst likes to push the limits of food as you know it, and her neighborhood breakfast and lunch destination packs in the patrons. Se7en Bites’ creations include hand-made moonpies, cupcakes, luscious biscuits and gravy, statuesque cakes and a chicken pot pie with a perfect crust. The salted caramel chocolate pecan pie is a thing of beauty. $ Shakers American Café 1308 Edgewater Drive, Orlando 407-422-3534 shakerscafe.com B-L daily This enduring College Park eatery offers plenty of breakfast fare favorites, from standard eggs and sausage to gravy and biscuits. But the real treat is to check out the specials on the chalkboard. They could include a chorizo and goat cheese omelet, beef short rib hash, or cinnamon roll pancakes. For lunch, Shakers (so named because of its collection of salt and pepper shakers) offers a variety of items, including Reubens, burgers and “Mom’s Meatloaf.” $

The Smiling Bison 107 N. Magnolia Ave., Sanford 407-915-6086. thesmilingbison.com L Wed.-Sat., D Tue.-Sat. The highlight here is house-made charcuterie—smoked kielbasa, sweet curry sausage and, of course, the bison burger. Other menu items include the boneless pork chop with kumquat marmalade, the Duck Lover’s Pizza with duck ham, sausage and confit, and cheddar-bacon fat biscuits. $$-$$$.  Swine & Sons Provisions 669 N. Orange Ave., Winter Park 407-636-7601. swineandsons.com B-L-D Mon.Sat. Lexie and Rhys Gawlak are the proprietors of this grocery-eatery, providing house-made sausages, terrines and bacon, along with sandwiches like the Southern Cuban and the ribeye hotdog. The Swine’s breakfast includes the eggs on a bun (fried eggs, bacon and tomato jam) and avocado toast. $-$$ %The Tap Room at Dubsdread 549 W. Par Street, Orlando 407-650-0100. taproomatdubsdread. com L-D daily. BR Sun. Nestled within the picturesque Dubsdread Golf Course, The Tap Room offers casual, yet sophisticated, American fare. Fresh fish, hand-cut steaks, pastas and the award-winning Tap Room Classic Cheeseburger are some of the College Park restaurant’s best menu items. You can dine inside or out on the veranda, which offers views of the golf course. The Readers’ Choice selection for Best Power Lunch in our 2019 Dining Awards. $$-$$$ Ẃ Tony Roma’s 8560 International Drive, Orlando.

407-248-0094. tonyromas.com L-D daily. There are ribs aplenty here, basted with your choice of four sauces, including a Maker’s Mark bourbon variety. But this casual dining mainstay also boasts a variety of steaks, seafood, chicken, burgers and salads. Mix and match items include the filet medallions and ribs combo. $$-$$$ Ẃ The Waterfront 4201 S. Orange Ave., Orlando 407866-0468. thewaterfrontorlando.com L-D daily; BR Sun. Among the standouts at this reinvented lakeside spot are the Waterfront Burger, with hand-ground chuck, house-cured bacon, Swiss and blue cheese and caramelized onion; fish and chips; and blackened catfish with kale and grits. On the last Monday of every month, the chefs are given free rein to leave the menu behind and the results are delicious. A recent dinner featured rabbit schnitzel, house-made sausage, beef sauerbraten and apple strudel. $-$$

ASIAN

King Bao 710 N. Mills Ave., Orlando 407-237-0013. kingbaowow.com L-D daily. This Mills 50 spot offers a variety of rolls, ranging from light and pillowy to sturdy and chew-worthy, holding treats like pork belly, shrimp and kimchi fried chicken. Fascinating combinations like Asian pear salsa on the Glen Rhee Korean short rib, or shallot, pepper and ginger relish on tofu “Veganville” handhelds, emphasize the wellthought-out flavors. $ Mamak 1231 E. Colonial Drive, Orlando 407-2704688. mamakasianorlando.com L-D daily. Mamak brings the flavors of Malaysia to Orlando. A must-try is the wonton with hot sauce, consisting of steamed chicken and shrimp dumplings coated in peanut sauce, chili oil and sesame seeds. Other winners: pasembur, a sweet potato gravy served on crispy tofu; and gwa bao, a soft steamed bun filled with duck or pork. $-$$ Morimoto Asia Disney Springs Marketplace, Lake Buena Vista 407-939-6686. patinagroupcom/ morimoto-asia L-D daily. Morimoto Asia, a towering presence at the phoenix that is Disney Springs, is an ultra-hip vision of pan-Asian delights created from the mind of Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto. Its quirky takes on Chinese, Japanese and Korean dishes enhance a substantial sushi menu that can sometimes be acquired directly from the hands of the Iron Chef himself. Don’t miss the Peking Duck and the Singapore laksa, which adds rice noodles and chicken meatballs to spicy curry and coconut soup. $$$ Ẃ Noodles and Rice 813 N. Mills Ave., Orlando 407895-8833. noodlesandricecafe.com L-D daily except closed Tuesdays. The menu at Noodles and Rice is extensive and this unassuming Mills 50 spot gets just about everything right. Try the hot pots, Korean seafood pancakes, house ramen or the wonderful Thai basil fried rice. $ %Poke Hana 1225A E. Colonial Drive, Orlando 407 601-0283. poke-hana.com L-D daily Our 2019 Critic’s Pick for Best Casual Dining. Amid the vast wave of new poke restaurants, this homegrown spot brings a level of quality seldom seen in fast food. There’s good, sushi-quality rice, fish brought in daily (with sourcing information posted), and interesting non-tuna items (tuna is poke of choice) like kimchee octopus, Hawaiian-roll sliders, poke nachos and house-made crispy rice taco shells that stick in your teeth—but you still love them. Fast, friendly, and very, very good. $$

Hawkers Asian Street Fare 1103 N. Mills Ave., Orlando 407-237-0606; 9100 Conroy Windermere Road, Windermere 407-583-6334. eathawkers. com L-D daily. Chefs specializing in cuisines from Vietnam, China, Malaysia and Hong Kong put a modern twist on family recipes to create tasty fare like crispy cod with black bean sauce, kimchi fried rice, chicken eggrolls, green papaya and shrimp salad, and wok-fired green beans. $

Sushi Lola’s 2902 Corrine Drive, Orlando 407-8985652. sushilolas.com L-D Mon.-Sat. At this Audubon Park café, Korean chefs in the back kitchen create oven-based offerings while sushi masters assemble intricate rolls at the bar out front. The most popular offering, the Playboy Roll, features tuna, avocado and tempura shrimp, adorned with fish roe and roasted rice crackers. For a Korean dish, try the bulgogi bibimbap—marinated beef and rice. $-$$$

Kai Asian Street Fare 1555 S.R. 436, Suite 1171, Winter Park 407-831-3430 kaistreetfare.com L-D Tue.Sun. “Food is supposed to be fun,’’ says co-owner Quan Van, and he makes it so at this strip mall spot, adding flavorful twists to dishes. They include coating wide, wok-fried chow fun noodles in a Vietnamese sauce with squid, beef and shrimp; or topping crispy fries with Korean bulgogi beef, kimchi and spicy mayo. The signature chicken wings offer a crispy exterior draped in soy garlic, spicy Korean gochujang or whiskey soy. $

TaKo Cheena 932 N. Mills Ave., Orlando 321-2367457. mytakocheena.com L-D Tue.-Sun. This adventurous cuisine boasts numerous influences, from Thai to Indian to Mexican. Treat yourself to the Indian butter chicken burrito, Thai Peanut Chicken tacos, or Asian hot dogs—Chinese sweet sausage topped with kimchi or pickled daikon radish. TaKo Cheena is open till 4 a.m. Friday and Saturday. $

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DINE RECOMMENDED EATING BARBECUE

%4 Rivers Smokehouse Six Orlando-area locations 1-855-368-7748. 4rsmokehouse.com L-D Mon.-Sat. Our 2019 Readers’ Choice winner in the Barbecue and Ribs categories. The lines at 4 Rivers can get long, but the succulent barbecue sandwiches, delectable brisket and home-style sides are worth the wait. The baked cheese grits are magnificent. Owner John Rivers is the winner of our critic’s Impact Award for his continuing efforts to give back to the community. $-$$ Bubbalou’s Bodacious Bar-B-Que Five area locations. bubbalous.com L-D daily. This local chain is a good bet for a quick barbecue fix. Tender smoked pork is sliced Virginia-style onto soft sweet buns. Try the award-winning ribs (available with mild, hot or killer sauce) and the fried okra. $-$$ Pig Floyd’s Urban Barbakoa 1326 N. Mills Ave., Orlando 407-203-0866; Lake Nona Village, 9680 N. Narcoossee Rd., Lake Nona 407-730-7376; pigfloyds. com L-D daily. Serving a combination of Latin, African and American fusion, this eatery also invokes the Caribbean roots of barbecue with barbakoa, or traditional Puerto Rican smoke cooking, full of rich flavors and tropical ingredients. It’s on delicious display in the St. Louis ribs and the matahambre smoked flank sandwich. Also try the North African chicken sausage and shrimp platter. $-$$$.

The Polite Pig Disney Springs, Town Center 407-9387444. disneyworld.disney.go.com/dining L-D daily.

The culinary powerhouse that is the Petrakis family trots out exemplary barbecue and more in a locally sourced, artisanal restaurant disguised as a fast food outlet. It’s all here: pulled pork sandwiches, St. Louis ribs, and coffee-scented, amazingly tender brisket.

But the Pig also offers delectable surprises like a salmon BLT (with bacon jam and marinated tomato), cracklings, charred broccoli, barbecue cauliflower, chicken salad made with meat from the smoker—and even a house-brewed beer. $-$$$

CAJUN/CREOLE

Tibby’s New Orleans Kitchen 2203 Aloma Ave., Winter Park 407-672-5753; 494 W. S.R. 436, Altamonte Springs 407-951-6928. tibbysneworleanskitchen. com L-D daily. Using family recipes, owner Brian Wheeler delivers satisfying N’Awlins cooking, with the jambalaya-crawfish-filé gumbo as the standout. Andouille sausage is king; it’s in almost every dish. $-$$

CARIBBEAN

%Bahama Breeze Five area locations. bahamabreeze.com L-D daily. A themed delight that has dominated the Caribbean category of our Dining Awards for many years, Bahama Breeze showcases interpretations of island cuisine, including jerk chicken, West Indian patties, fried plantains, and seafood paella. A terrific family dinner destination. $$-$$$

CHINESE

Chef Wang’s Kitchen 5148 W. Colonial Drive 407-9303188 L-D daily except closed Tuesday. At this hidden treasure inside a strip mall, Chef Jian Hua Wang creates memorable dishes such as deep-fried eggplant and potatoes sautéed in sweet soy sauce and garlic. Pork dumplings are simple dim sum-sized packets, perfectly pan-fried with crisp wrapping and savory filling. Other specialties range from sweet and sour shredded potatoes to a ginger steamed whole fish. Sichuan styles are represented in dan dan mein, which are hand-pulled

round noodles topped with ground pork, hoisin, five spice powder and hot chili oil. $$ Ming’s Bistro 1212 Woodward St., Orlando 407-8989672 L-D daily. This out-of-the way Mills 50 spot offers dim sum worthy of San Francisco.. Feast on sesame balls, roast pork buns, shrimp dumplings and items you may not recognize (like chicken feet or jellyfish). In addition, a full menu of Hong Kong-style entrées offers enticements—order the duck. $ Peter’s Kitchen 3922 E. Colonial Drive, Orlando 407895-8174. peterskitchencb.business.site L-D daily except closed Wednesday. Residing in a nondescript building that has housed all manner of eateries over the years, this spot serves delicious dim sum that gets rave reviews from diners. Other menu items include squid with ginger and scallions, Peking duck, honey garlic chicken, and jumbo shrimp with walnuts. $$ P.F. Chang’s China Bistro Winter Park Village, 436 N. Orlando Ave., Winter Park 407-622-0188; The Mall at Millenia, 4200 Conroy Road, Orlando 407-345-2888. pfchangs.com L-D daily. Chinese-inspired foods from the creators of Fleming’s steak house, so you know the beef dishes will be good. $$-$$$ Ẃ %Taste of Chengdu 2030 W. Colonial Drive, Orlando 407-839-1983 facebook.com/tasteofchengdu L-D Tue.-Sun. Winner of Best Chinese from both readers and our critic for 2019. Chef Xiong “Tiger” Tang puts his authentic spin on Sichuan dishes that include the sweat-inducing seasonings of his home country, with offerings like whole lobster with peppers, brisket in chili sauce, or tofu skin with chive sauce. Tang says he gets fresh peppers—called huajiao—from his brother in the Sichuan province. $$-$$$

CREATIVE/CONTEMPORARY

1921 Mount Dora 142 E. 4th Ave., Mount Dora 352385-1921. 1921mountdora.com L Wed.-Sat.; D Tue.Sun. BR Sat.-Sun. In this small-town setting, diners are surrounded by furniture and artwork from the nearby Modernism Museum as they enjoy dishes like Ponce Inlet tilefish, seared Maine scallops and crispy duck leg. There’s also a Sunday night supper, which features main courses like Southern fried chicken, ham steak and jambalaya. $$-$$$$ Ẃ Artisan’s Table 55 W. Church St.., Orlando 407-7307499. artisanstableorlando.com B-L-D daily; BR Sat.Sun. Simple ingredients and exemplary preparation are the hallmarks of this downtown spot. Daily specials include Meatloaf Monday, Chicken and Dumplings Wednesday and Fried Chicken and Waffles Friday. And don’t miss the fish and chips, a special on Thursday. $$-$$$  Bar 17 Bistro Universal’s Aventura Hotel, 6725 Adventure Way, Orlando 407-503-6000. universal-orlando. com D daily. This 17th-floor gem boasts stunning views and an inventive menu from Chef “Mousse’’ Benhamacht. The fried rice is saturated with rich flavors, adding charred baby cornlets, crisp Brussels sprouts leaves, a fried egg and seared prosciutto ham to pan-fried rice. Choices in bao buns include braised pork belly, duck confit with turmeric citrus aioli and fantastic firecracker shrimp with a chili glaze. A great place for after-theme-park cocktails. $$-$$$ The Boheme Grand Bohemian Hotel Orlando, 325 S. Orange Ave., Downtown 407-313-9000. grandbohemianhotel.com B-L-D daily; BR Sun. Chef Laurent Hollaender lays out an amazing array of items for Sunday brunch, from oysters and

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crab legs, to waffles and omelets, to house-made charcuterie and decadent desserts. Evening fare includes sherry-baked Chilean sea bass and cognacflamed pepper steak. $$$$ Ẃ Canvas Restaurant & Market 13615 Sachs Ave., Orlando (Lake Nona) 407-313-7800. canvaslakenona. com D daily, L Sun. Canvas is a multicultural mélange of tastes, with influences of Latin, Caribbean, New Orleans, and Cuban. The pork belly and ham sandwich and the smoked fish dip are winners, as are most of the shrimp dishes. Don’t miss Canvas’ take on mussels, meaty shellfish served in a blend of tart tomatillo and spicy chili. $$-$$$$ Ẃ Café Tu Tu Tango 8625 International Drive, Orlando 407-248-2222. cafetututango.com L-D daily. Go with a group and share, as Café Tu Tu Tango’s menu is full of inventive items—all in appetizer-sized portions. Cajun chicken egg rolls and Dutch salad made with caramelized onion flatbread, dried cranberries, pine nuts and goat cheese are typical selections. $$ Ẃ Capa Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort, 10100 Dream Tree Blvd., Lake Buena Vista 407-313-7777. fourseasons.com/orlando D daily.

Capa combines the joys of a true tapas bar with the depth of a premium steakhouse, offering stunning views from its 17th-floor perch. The small plates include ternera beef cheeks, strips of veal draped over bits of roasted rutabaga, and patatas bravas, small potato columns in a spicy paprika sauce. On the large side, the 32-ounce Porterhouse for two is otherworldly in size and flavor. $$-$$$$ Ẃ Chatham’s Place 7575 Dr. Phillips Blvd., Orlando 407345-2992. chathamsplace.com D Mon.-Sat. Wooden wine racks line the walls enclosing only 15 tables, creating a cozy atmosphere to enjoy high-quality dishes and attentive service. The few select items on the menu, such as the Portobello mushroom soup and duck breast entrée, intrigue the palate. $$$$ Ẃ Citricos Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa, 4401 Grand Floridian Way, Lake Buena Vista 407939-3436. disney.go.com D daily. Citricos offers a unique blend of Southern European cuisine with a local Florida touch. France, Spain and Italy make an appearance on the menu. For a special treat, reserve the in-kitchen Chef’s Domain table well in advance. $$$$ Ẃ %Fig’s Prime 1188 Commerce Park Drive, Ste. 1002, Altamonte Springs 407-960-1300. figsprime.com LMon.-Fri; D nightly. Our Critic’s Choice for Undiscovered Restaurant in our 2019 Dining Awards. Chef Victor Gonzalez, a veteran of the Orlando dining scene, demonstrates a mastery of many cuisines, whether Continental, American or Caribbean. The delicious offerings range from a remarkably thick 8-ounce prime sirloin to veal scallopini to a magnificent paella. The Mediterranean seafood zuppa is crowded with lobster, calamari, clams, scallops and shrimp cooked in a zesty marinara sauce. $$$-$$$$ Ẃ Hamilton’s Kitchen at The Alfond Inn 300 E. New England Ave., Winter Park 407-998-8090. thealfondinn.com B-L-D daily. At the site of the late, great Langford Hotel, standout entrees with a European flavor are created, including the olive oil poached snapper, honey glazed pork belly, and ahi tuna served over tomato and eggplant caponata. The watermelon salad is a delicious, deceptively simple palate cleanser between courses. $$$-$$$$ Ẃ

Itar Bistro and Market 7065 Westpoint Blvd., Orlando. 407-757-055. itarbistro.com L-D Mon-Sat. This gem combines the flavors of Italy and Argentina, with Chef Mariana Moya at the helm turning out rich, robust dishes. Try the pasticcio eggplant with Parmigiano topping, as well as the mixed grill for two, featuring Angus beef flank, short ribs and blood sausage.

The empanadas, particularly those with chicken and onion filling, are delightful. $$-$$$ K Restaurant 1701 Edgewater Drive, Orlando 407872-2332. kwinebar.com L Mon.-Fri.; D Mon.-Sat. A College Park mainstay of fine American cuisine sure to please both the eye and the palate. The menu changes each day, ensuring that every dining experience will be unique, and the intimate and cozy dining room is the perfect setting for a romantic night out. $$$ Ẃ %Luke’s Kitchen and Bar 640 South Orlando Ave., Maitland 407-674-2400. eatatlukes.com L-D daily; BR Sat.-Sun. Our Critic’s Pick for Best Cocktails in the 2019 Dining Awards. The barrel-aged and draft cocktails coming from the bar are outstanding: The on-tap Jaguar, consisting of Elyx vodka, Boomsma Beerenburger and Lindsay bitters, grapefruit, apple and lime is complex enough to occupy most of the evening and complements what Luke’s calls “classically inspired libations.” In the kitchen, the creative fare from Brandon McGlamery’s team ranges from mustard breaded pork to cast-iron trout with lentils. $$$ Ẃ Luma on Park 290 S. Park Ave., Winter Park 407599-4111. lumaonpark.com D nightly. Executive chef Brandon McGlamery offers fine dining with a sustainable twist, creating a changing menu that focuses on using locally sourced ingredients.

Standouts include the Idaho rainbow trout with black beluga lentils and julienned zucchini, and the roasted Ashley Farms chicken with butternut squash puree, cider-glazed Brussels sprouts and red onion marmalade. $-$$$$ Ẃ Market to Table 146 Plant St., Winter Garden 407970-8876. market2table.com D Wed.-Sat.; BR Sat.Sun. Chef Ryan Freelove offers an approachable, seasonally influenced menu focusing on fish and fowl and enhanced by house-made stocks, herb butters and sauces. Appetizers like rich crab cakes, calamari (dressed with tangy lemon aioli), and grilled beef skewers are simple and simply well done. He serves fish robed in lemon juice and a superb airline chicken breast accompanied by potato puree and a grilled mini squash filled with beets and duck confit. Soups like the fall offering of butternut squash have great depth of flavor. $$$  MOOR Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center, 6000 W. Osceola Parkway, Kissimmee. 407-586-1101. marriott.com L-D daily. A one-of-a-kind dining experience on a 60-foot ship deck within a hotel. Specialty Chef Phillip Fisher oversees the dishes, including creations like she-crab soup and Gulf-caught white shrimp atop Anson Mills white corn grits. The flatbreads are special—particularly the house-smoked duck and goat cheese—as well as the chicken and waffles, using chicken from Lake Meadow Naturals made with scratch ricotta cheese and drizzled in maple syrup-reduced pan drippings. $$-$$$$ Ẃ

%Mrs. Potato 4550 S. Kirkman Road, Orlando 407-290-0991. mrspotato.net L-D Mon.-Sat. Winner of our 2019 critic’s Best-Dressed Potato Award. It sounds simple: grated potatoes, grilled into a saucer shape. But the Brazilian delicacy called a rosti potato originated in Switzerland, uses a national signature cheese (catupiri) developed by Italians and is way larger than you can imagine. The South American batata Suíça takes the idea of crisp hash browns and fills them with gooey, savory goodness like ham and cheese, beef stroganoff, or Buffalo chicken. Rafaela Cabede’s exemplary creations have been featured on Guy Fieri’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. $-$$ %Norman’s Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes, 4012 Central Florida Parkway, Orlando 407-393-4333. normans.com D nightly. Our 2019 Critic’s Pick for Best Restaurant continues to prove the relevance of New World cuisine first championed by its namesake chef, Norman Van Aken. The menu, with flavors of the Caribbean, Pacific Rim, Latin America and Florida, comes from a continuing conversation between Van Aken and Executive Chef Andres Mendoza, producing superb dishes such as almaco jack fish in red sauce, and tempura fried octopus with squash broth. $$$$ Ẃ %The Osprey Tavern 4899 New Broad St., Orlando 407-960-7700. ospreytavern.com L Tue.-Sat., D Tue.-Sun., BR Sun. This Baldwin Park spot offers a fascinating menu that includes whole grilled branzino, bolognese, duck breast, and cottage pie with braised short ribs. The desserts and fresh-baked brunch creations from Pastry Chef Kristy Carlucci— a 2019 inductee into our Dining Hall of Fame—are must-haves. $$$-$$$$ Ẃ Primo JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes, 4040 Central Florida Parkway, Orlando 407-393-4444. primorestaurant.com D nightly. After winning the coveted James Beard Award, Chef Melissa Kelly and her pastry-chef husband, Price Kushner, opened the Grande Lakes Marriott branch of Primo. The warm, woodsy restaurant offers items such as rack of lamb with figs, casarecce pasta with clams and mussels, roasted chicken breast with lima bean ragout, and pan-seared diver scallops with risotto. The produce comes from Primo’s on-site garden. $$$-$$$$ Ẃ The Rusty Spoon 55 W. Church St., Orlando 407401-8811. therustyspoon.com L Mon.-Fri.; D nightly.

Chef Kathleen Blake offers creative riffs on classic European and American dishes, while sourcing local ingredients whenever possible, at her gastropub in the 55 West building. Try the lamb sandwich or the Dirty South stew, the latter a combination of rock shrimp, yellowtail snapper and clams. Other winners: the “55” burger stuffed with bacon and Gruyere cheese, and the Lake Meadow salad of greens, eggs and chicken livers from Lake Meadow Naturals farm. $$-$$$ Ẃ %Santiago’s Bodega 802 Virginia Dr., Orlando, 407412-6979; 1185 Spring Center South Blvd., Altamonte Springs, 407-960-2605. santiagosbodega.com L-D daily, BR Sun. This tapas-style restaurant, with its artfilled dining room and captivating lounge, captured Best Brunch from readers in our 2019 dining poll.

Santiago’s specializes in hot and cold small plates, with more than three dozen available, ranging from yellowfin tuna ceviche and lamb patties to chicken skewers and tomato and basil bruschetta. $$ Ẃ

Strong Water Tavern Loews Sapphire Falls Resort at Universal Orlando, 6601 Adventure Way, Orlando 407-503-5000. loewshotels.com/sapphire-fallsresort D daily. Chef Carlos Castaño presents a dazzling menu of items from Cuba, Jamaica, Puerto Rico, Haiti, Colombia, U.S. Virgin Islands and Mexico in this rum-centric small-plate restaurant disguised as a hotel lobby bar. Best bets: the Peruvian Trio, three servings of classic ceviche of corvina; beef and sweet plantain hash; pollo patron, shredded chicken atop fried green plantain slices with a spicy tomato hogao; and Jamaican curry goat. More than 60 types of rum are available from the bar, most in a three-shot tasting flight. $-$$ Ẃ %The Tasting Room 99 W Plant St., Winter Garden 407-230-4837. chefstableattheedgewater.com D Mon.-Sat.; BR Sun. Take your taste buds on a trip to the Bayou: Chef Kevin Tarter infuses his Louisiana upbringing into every dish at this sidekick to the adjoining Chef’s Table. The tapas-style dining includes items like smoked fish dip, fried chicken livers with smoked sausage gravy, fried green tomatoes and New Orleans shrimp and grits. The craft drinks are outstanding. Winner of the Readers’ Choice for Best Appetizers in our 2019 Dining Awards. $$-$$$ Ẃ Tiffins Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Lake Buena Vista 407-939-3463. disneygo.com L-D daily. Within three gallery-like dining areas full of original art and artifacts from Asia and Africa, Tiffins presents adventurous dishes such as a whole-fried sustainable fish served on fermented black bean sauce with green papaya salad; and a berbere-spiced lamb chop fragrant with clove and cardamom. For appetizers, which can be a meal in themselves, don’t miss the black-eyed pea fritters or the smoky grilled octopus. $$$$ Ẃ Urbain 40 8000 Via Dellagio Way, Orlando. 407872-2640. urbain40.com L-D daily. The melting pot of tastes at this Restaurant Row standout includes bouillabaisse Provencal, an exquisite offering of Northeastern mussels, clams from Cedar Key and wild-caught shrimp in a tomato, saffron and fennel broth with a touch of Pernod. Other winners: the Angus burger with pimiento cheese, onion jam and Bearnaise sauce; a richly flavored chicken Alfredo; and a magnificent shrimp lo mein. $$$-$$$$ Ẃ Victoria & Albert’s Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, Lake Buena Vista 407-824-1089. victoria-alberts. com D nightly. Reserve far in advance for Orlando’s only AAA Five Diamond restaurant. Award-winning Executive Chef Scott Hunnel and Chef de Cuisine Aimee Rivera prepare outstanding seven-course prix-fixe meals in the main, very intimate dining room, the 10-course splendor of dinner in Queen Victoria’s Room, and a 10-course extravaganza right in the kitchen at the Chef’s Table. $$$$ Ẃ Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill Disney Springs West Side, Lake Buena Vista 407-815-2100. wolfgangpuck.com/ dining/orlando-bar-grill L-D daily. The Grand Café that was Puck’s in name only is but a distant memory. This new venture showcases the legendary chef’s true talents as well as those of Executive Chef Michael Tiva, with standout dishes of pasta, seafood and pizza. Try the pappardelle in traditional Bolognese meat sauce; the poached and seared Florida red snapper with clams and mussels; and Puck’s signature smoked salmon pizza. $$$-$$$$ 

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DINE RECOMMENDED EATING CUBAN

Black Bean Deli 325 S Orlando Ave. Suite 1-1, Winter Park; 1835 E. Colonial Drive, Orlando 407-628-0294. blackbeandeli..com L Mon.-Sat., D Mon.-Fri. This family-run eatery specializes in authentic Cuban comfort food. The Cuban sandwich, media noche, picadillo— and of course the black beans—are first rate, as are the empanadas. The creamy flan custard is a musthave to top off the meal. $ Columbia 649 Front St., Celebration 407-566-1505. columbiarestaurant.com L-D daily. The oldest restaurant chain in Florida, serving authentic, upscale Cuban fare from sangria to paella in a decidely Spanish, Old World-style dining room. The merluza “Russian style” is especially interesting. Live music plays in the tapas lounge. $$$ Ẃ Cuba Libre Pointe Orlando, 9101 International Drive, Orlando 407-226-1600. cubalibrerestaurant.com D nightly. In this massive setting reminiscent of a Cuban hacienda courtyard, chef/partner Guillermo Pernot offers a magnificent menu that features classic Cuban recipes as well as bold adaptations. The contemporary items include Citrus Grilled Brick Chicken in mango sweet and sour gravy. Classic Cuban items are offered as well, like Ropa Vieja—shredded beef brisket stewed with tomatoes, bell peppers, onions and red wine and served with maduros and steamed white rice. $$$ Ẃ Padrino’s Cuban Bistro 13586 Village Park Drive, Orlando 407-251-5107. padrinosbistro.com L-D daily.

From the markets of 1930s Cuba to present-day Orlando, generations of the Padrino family have been nourishing people with authentic Cuban cuisine. Try the white bean “caldo gallego” soup and citrus-marinated lechon asado pork. Finish with house-made Tres Leches cake. $$ 

DESSERTS AND BAKERIES

Better Than Sex 1905 N. Orange Ave., Orlando 407-761-8949 betterthansexorlando.com 6 p.m.midnight Wed.-Sun. The atmosphere is decidedly sweet and sexy at this Ivanhoe Village spot. A steamy sample: Peanut Butter Perversion (peanut butter mousse on a chocolate chip cookie dough crust with salted chocolate bark). Or try the Lavender Lipstick, a honey-rimmed glass of Proseco dripping with lavender syrup. $$  Blue Bird Bake Shop 3122 Corrine Drive, Orlando 407-228-3822. bluebirdbakeshop.com Open Tue.Sun. Get your sweet and coffee and have a seat, or order your bounty to go. Either way, be prepared to choose from more than two dozen varieties of cupcakes—including sweet potato, red velvet, Snickerdoodle, apricot ginger and even a chocolate Guinness beer cake. $ Buttermilk Bakery 1198 Orange Ave., Winter Park 321-422-4015. buttermilk-bakery.com B-L Tue.-Sat.; BR Sat.-Sun. Taissa Rebroff, her brother Phillip and mom Lana bake everything that graces the everchanging menu, from the sweet croissant tarts with plum or apricot, to orange-cardamom buns, to baked Basque peppers on house-made sourdough. Delectable tea cakes, cookies and scones also make regular appearances. $ Charlie’s Gourmet Pastries 3213 Curry Ford Road, Orlando 407-898-9561. charliesgourmetpastries. com Open Mon.-Sat. A longtime Orlando favorite, Charlie’s creates items such as checkerboard cake, rainbow cookies and mincemeat pies that have be-

come nostalgic and forgotten treats elsewhere. There also are elephant ear pastries, cream cheese rugelach and real coconut macaroons, but it’s the overstuffed fruit pies and butter-laden cakes that have kept people coming back for 50 years. $-$$ The Cheesecake Factory 4200 Conroy Road, Orlando 407-226-0333; 520 N. Orlando Ave, Winter Park 407-644-4220 L-D daily. The menu is extensive to say the least, with all manner of entrées and salads.

But it’s the sweets that draw diners, The signature item is cheesecake, of course, and the offerings in that area range from Oreo Dream to lemon meringue to white chocolate raspberry truffle. $$-$$$  %The Greenery Creamery 420 E. Church St., #112, Orlando 407-286-1084. thegreenerycreamery.com Open daily noon to 9 p.m. Our critic’s 2019 selection for Best Ice Cream. Consider these flavors: Cardamom rose. Chocolate orange olive oil. Black ash coconut. Consider the taste buds that developed Lady Marmalade, sweet milky ice cream with angel food cake and orange marmalade swirls. Owner and opera singer Marie Mercado uses all-natural (although sometimes unusual) ingredients and Dakin Dairy Farms milk for her small batch, handcrafted marvels of dairy and vegan treats. $ Olde Hearth Bread Co. Audubon Park retail, 407622-0822; wholesale 407-834-8881. oldehearthbreadcompany.com Mon.-Sat. Famous in Central Florida for artisanal baked goods, Shannon and Janice Talty’s company, celebrating its 20th year, makes about 18,000 pieces of bread a day, everything from pretzel rolls and braided challah to banana bread and pumpkin muffins. They supply nearly 275 business customers that include theme parks, hotels and restaurants; individuals craving the goodness can find it at Olde Hearth’s retail outlet in East End Market or at farmers markets in Winter Park and Maitland. %P Is For Pie 2806 Corrine Drive, Orlando 407-7454743 crazyforpies.com 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Mon.-Sat. This Audubon Park gem creates mouthwatering whole pies, hand pies, “pie pops’’ and more. The choices seem endless, from banana cream to caramel maple pumpkin to—wait for it—chocolate peanut butter & sea salt pie. But Stacey and Ed Tomljenovich also specialize in the savory, including a pork and chicken handpie with prosciutto; and a meat loaf, mashed potato and green beans creation. Winner of our critic’s 2019 Upper Crust Award. $-$$

EUROPEAN

%Hollerbach’s Willow Tree Café 205 E. First St., Sanford 407-321-2204. willowtreecafe.com L-D daily.

Our readers’ pick for Best German in the 2019 Dining Awards, Hollerbach’s offers a vast array of beers and such hefty food choices as the Schlachthaus Platte with its veal sausage, pork meatloaf and smoked pork loin. On weekends, you’ll find a sing-along, with people locking arms and swaying back and forth to German tunes. $$-$$$$ 

FRENCH

Café de France 526 Park Ave. S., Winter Park 407647-1869. lecafedefrance.com L-D Tue.-Sat. You could easily miss this diminutive restaurant on Park Avenue’s south end—and that would be a big mistake. For nearly four decades, Dominique and German Gutierrez have delighted diners with a simple, subtle seasonal menu featuring standouts like herbroasted rack of lamb, beef bourguignon, coq au vin and slow-roasted glazed duck. $$$ Ẃ

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Chez Vincent 533 W. New England Ave., Winter Park 407-599-2929. chezvincent.com L-D daily.

This charming French spot in the trendy redeveloped Hannibal Square section of Winter Park offers fine food and formal service in an elegant dining room. $$$ Ẃ %DoveCote 390 N. Orange Ave., Orlando 407930-1700. dovecoteorlando.com L Mon.-Fri., D Mon.-Sat., BR Sun. Chef Clayton Miller’s goal is to present “approachable French comfort food’’ and he delivers, with consistently superb creations that range from a killer onion soup and magnificent chicken pâté, to dishes such as short ribs and grilled chicken whose exacting technique belies their simplicity. DoveCote captured Best Wine List from our critic for 2019, with drinkmeister Gene Zimmerman devising the perfect complements to Chef Miller’s creations. $$$-$$$$ Ẃ %Le Coq Au Vin 4800 S. Orange Ave., Orlando 407-851-6980. lecoqauvinrestaurant.com D Tue.Sun. Winner of the 2019 Readers’ Choice Award for Best French. An Orlando mainstay since 1976, this French restaurant combines classic cuisine such as the signature coq au vin (chicken in Burgundy sauce) with Southern specialties—New Orleansstyle gumbo and boudin sausage do have French roots, after all. $$$ Ẃ

GREEK

The Greek Corner 1600 N. Orange Ave, Orlando 407 228-0303. thegreekcorner.net L-D daily. This Ivanhoe Village favorite offers an abundance of Greek specialties, ranging from lamb kebobs and chops to baked dishes like pastitsio and moussaka. For lunch, try the gyro or souvlaki. $-$$$ %Taverna Opa Pointe Orlando, 9101 International Drive, Orlando 407-351-8660. tavernaoparestaurant. com L-D daily. This 12-year-old I-Drive mainstay scored a trifecta among readers in our 2019 Dining Awards poll, capturing Best Restaurant, Best Greek and Best Late-Night Dining. It’s a fun spot—there’s lively music, belly dancing, dancing among diners and napkin-throwing. But Taverna also pays attention to the menu, with selections like branzino (the European sea bass), slow-roasted lamb, Nisiotiko (“the Greek paella’’), and moussaka.. $$-$$$$ Ẃ

INDIAN

Aashirwad Indian Restaurant 7000 S. Kirkman Road Orlando 407-370-9830 aashirwadrestaurant. com L-D daily. This I-Drive restaurant focuses on northern Indian dishes. The familiar favorites are all here—samosas, chicken tandoori, chicken tikka—as well as intriguing selections such as chicken shakuti (anise-flavored poultry cooked in coconut-based masala gravy). There are also a dozen vegetarian choices, from tadka daal (yellow lentils cooked with tomatoes, onions and spices) to methi malai mutter (green peas in a creamy gravy with fenugreek leaf). $$ Bombay Café 1137 Doss Ave., Orlando 407-240-5151. bombaycafeorlando.net L-D daily. Located near Florida Mall, this casual spot offers a variety of Indian favorites. Of particular note: the crispy, crunchy Indian snack known as chaat; and the south Indian dosa, a folded pancake filled with ingredients such as peas, onion, tomatoes and lentil chutney. Curries include khoya kaju, cashews cooked in a creamy sauce. $

Rasa 7730 W. Sand Lake Road, Orlando 407-9300402. eatatrasa.com L-D daily. This eatery along Restaurant Row aims to broaden our concept of Indian food, creating marvelous dishes from the country’s southern region, as well as Chinese-influenced cuisine. A great way to experience the dishes is with the South Indian thali, or platter, with its variety of offerings ranging from poriyal (a dry spice blend surrounding fresh okra) to sambhar (a lentil-based vegetable dish flavored with tamarind). Other best bets: iddly Manchurian, a Chinese-influenced lentil cake, and dosa, crepes wrapped tortilla style around vegetables. $$.  %Tamarind 501 N. Orlando Ave., Suite 149, Winter Park 321-207-0760; 12309 E. Colonial Drive, Orlando 407-237-0920. tamarindfl.com L-D daily. Owner/ Chef Amit Kumar uses slow-roasted spices to create out-of-this-world flavors at this jewel, selected Best Indian cuisine by our readers in the 2019 Dining Awards. The Goan shrimp curry, Kashmiri aloo (potatoes in yogurt curry) and palak paneer (spinach and curd cheese) are standouts, as is the tandoori chicken.

Save room for kulfi, a heavenly dessert. $$-$$$

IRISH

Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant Downtown Disney, 1640 E. Buena Vista Drive, Lake Buena Vista 407-938-0300. raglanroadirishpub.com L-D daily.

This Irish-themed megapub inspired by celebrity chef Kevin Dundon is not to be missed. A sure bet is Kevin’s Heavenly Ham, oven-roasted ham with an Irish Mist glaze with potato cakes and braised cabbage. Add a brew from the extensive beer menu and stay a while to enjoy the joyous music and dancing. $$$ Ẃ

ITALIAN

Antonio’s 611 S. Orlando Ave., Maitland 407-6451035 antoniosonline.com L-D daily. In the dining room upstairs, Chef Patrick Tramontana offers entrees like Pollo Marsala, or braised lamb shank with Parmesan risotto and sweet peas., while the informal cafe and market downstairs boasts a variety of pizzas, salads, meats, pastas and more. $$-$$$$ Ẃ Bice Portofino Bay Hotel, Universal Orlando, 5601 Universal Blvd., Orlando 407-503-1415. biceorlando. com D nightly. Tucked into an upstairs corner at the Portofino, Bice brings Orlando the seductive pastas, risottos and entrées that have made the chain an Italian favorite in numerous locations around the world. $$$-$$$$ Ẃ Cala Bella Rosen Shingle Creek, 9939 Universal Blvd., Orlando 407-996-3663. calabellarestaurant. com D nightly. Stimulating Italian fare, including great risotto and lamb chops, is served in a beautiful dining room at this sprawling hotel. The desserts are fabulous, too. $$$$ Ẃ Christini’s Ristorante Italiano Dr. Phillips Marketplace, 7600 Dr. Phillips Blvd., Dr. Phillips 407-3458770. christinis.com D nightly. Owner Chris Christini has wowed diners with his meticulously prepared old-school menu since 1984. The Linguine alla Genovese Is a perfectly balanced pasta dish with pesto sauce and distinct flavors of garlic and pine nuts, while Chicken Scaloppine al Marsala combines rich wine sauce with sauteed mushrooms and a thinpounded chicken cutlet. $$$$ Ẃ Enzo’s on the Lake 1130 S. 17-92, Longwood 407834-9872. enzos.com L Fri.; D Mon.-Sat. Antipasti of roasted vegetables, marinated seafood and imported salamis begin the feasting at Enzo’s, a long-

time family-owned Italian restaurant in a lakeside house. Dover sole, rarely seen on today’s menus, is a specialty. $$$-$$$$ Ẃ %Francesco’s Ristorante & Pizzeria 400 S. Orlando Ave., Maitland 407-960-5533, francescos-rist. com L-D Mon.-Sat. Winner of the Readers’ Choice for Best Italian in the 2019 Dining Awards. The pizza is primo at Owner/Chef Francesco Aiello’s restaurant, whether you choose the simple Margherita or load it with carne or vegetables. Other standouts include the spaghetti alla carbonara and the pollo Siciliano, a chicken breast sautéed in a mix of capers, artichokes and garlic and wine sauce. $$-$$$ La Luce 14100 Bonnet Creek Resort Lane, Orlando 407-597-3600. laluceorlando.com D daily. West Coast Italian stylings come to Orlando in this signature restaurant started by celebrity chef Donna Scala.

Best selections include bite-size polpette meaballs and the Tuscan ragu and lamb. House-made pastas and high-end ingredients are a hallmark. $$-$$$ Ẃ Nonno’s Ristorante Italiano 1140 E. Altamonte Drive, Altamonte Springs 407-260-8900. nonnositalianrestaurant.com L Tue.-Sat., D Tues.-Sun. Pasta, seafood, veal and chicken populate the menu here, and the genial Stefano LaCommare and son Lenny do very well with all of them. Classic eggplant parm is a massive serving of breaded eggplant smothered in tomato sauce and cheese and cooked in the oven.

The monkfish special features firm white fish topped with capers, pine nuts, olives and chopped tomato.

For an appetizer try the bruschetta topped with caponata, a delicious mélange of eggplant olives, onions and celery. $$-$$$ Peperoncino Cucina 7998 Via Dellagio Way, Orlando 407-440-2856 peperoncinocucina.com L-D daily. The husband-wife chef team of Barbara Alfano and Danilo Martorano provide a delicious slice of Southern Italy with an array of fish and meat entrees, pasta and risotto. But their antipasti and stuzzicherie (starters and appetizers) are particularly magnificent, ranging from tiny burratini cheese with ripe tomatoes and house-spiced, thin-sliced pastrami to fried risotto arancini balls and Calabrese roasted eggplant. $$-$$$$ Ẃ Pizza Bruno 3990 Curry Ford Road, Orlando. pizzabrunofl.com D daily, L Sat., BR Sun. Bruno Zacchini’s tiny eatery is a draw not only for your average pizza lover but also local kitchen celebs seeking the goodness of his Neapolitan soft dough pie. Zacchini keeps it simple—crushed plum tomatoes and fresh cheese for a pizza subtle in taste and a great base for toppings including hot soppressata, clams and woodfired pineapple. $-$$ Prato 124 N. Park Ave, Winter Park 407-262-0050 prato-wp.com L Wed.-Sun.; D daily. From Luma executive chef Brandon McGlamery comes Prato, a trendy, communal spot with inventive offerings like pretzel-encrusted calamari, shrimp ravioli, oakroasted trout and a variety of pizzas. $$-$$$ Ẃ %Retro Station 5749 W. Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy., Kissimmee 407-219-9299 retrostationrestaurant. com D daily except closed on Tuesday. The Readers’ Choice for Best Pizza in our 2019 Dining Awards. The offerings at this spot in the Highway 192 tourist area range from basic the All You Need Is Meat (ground beef, salami and pepperoni) to the Portuguesa (ham, onions, black olives, tomatoes, boiled eggs and oregano). Retro Station also offers a wide selection of main dishes like chicken parmesan, salmon alfredo and shrimp scampi. $$

Rocco’s Italian Grille & Bar 400 S. Orlando Ave., Winter Park 407-644-7770. roccositaliangrille.com L Mon.-Fri.; D Mon.-Sat. Guests can expect a true Italian experience from owner-chef Rocco Potami. Part of that experience, set in a vintage 1940s building, involves indulging in multiple courses, otherwise known as primo e secondo piatti. Diners are encouraged to arrive hungry—very hungry. Menu standouts include the Scaloppine di vitello alla Rocco—veal scaloppini topped with roasted red peppers, prosciutto and Fontina cheese, deglazed with white wine and finished with a rich demi glace sauce. $$$. Ẃ Sette 1407 N. Orange Ave., Orlando 407-704-7771. setteitalian.com D Tue.-Sun. This new Italian spot from the creators of Se7en Bites, Trina Gregory-Propst and Va Propst, is a magnificent revelation along Lake Ivanhoe. The meatball antipasto is a must—roasted eggplant or pork and beef spheres in rich tomato gravy on a bed of polenta, topped by whipped ricotta.

Other delights: the arancini riceballs filled with gorgonzola and figs, and the eggplant parmesan with tomato jam, three cheeses and house pasta in fragrant pesto cream. $$-$$$$ Ẃ Terralina Crafted Italian The Landing at Disney Springs, Lake Buena Vista 407-934-8888 terralinacrafteditalian.com L-D daily. Chef Tony Mantuano offers exquisite Italian cuisine in a glass conservatory overlooking Lake Buena Vista. The food focus is Rome and parts south, with delicate pastas and savory pizza, grilled seafood and tender mozzarella.

Mantuano re-creates flavors his grandmother introduced to him, and “Nonna’s pork ragu” turns up on delightful hand-rolled gnocchi. Executive Chef Justin Plank excels, with offerings like seafood cannelloni, loaded with shrimp, scallops, salmon, mahi, swordfish, sweet corvina, and mascarpone cheese, wrapped in pasta and baked in a lobster cream sauce with lemon zest and mozzarella. $$$. Ẃ

JAPANESE

Amura 55 W. Church St., Downtown Orlando 407316-8500; Plaza Venezia, 7786 W. Sand Lake Road, Dr. Phillips 407-370-0007; Colonial Town Plaza, 950 Market Promenade Ave., Lake Mary 407-936-6001. amura.com L Mon.-Sat.; D nightly. Three of Orlando’s hippest sushi houses, the downtown location casual, the others modern and suave. $$$ Banshoo Sushi Bar Rosen Centre Hotel, 9840 International Drive, Orlando 407-996-9840. rosecentre. com D nightly. Chef Yoshi Kohazame combines the simplicity of a Japanese sushi roll with ingredient combinations that suggest an American flair. The masterpiece of his kitchen is the rice. And he will offer you recommendations based on your previously ordered dish. Top the night off with a Banshoo Sunset Punch cocktail. $$ %Domu 3201 Corrine Drive, Orlando 407-960-1228. domufl.com D daily; BR Sat.-Sun. This Audubon Park hotspot, located in East End Market, offers a modern take on a traditional ramen bar. Be prepared to wait— 90 minutes most nights; they don’t take reservations—but know that the wait is worth it. Chef/owner Sonny Nguyen cooks up a sterling assortment of pork, chicken and vegetable broth ramen with housemade noodles, as well as otherworldly crispy wings in kimchi butter. And the grilled octopus dish may be the best-tasting bargain in town. Winner of our dining critic’s 2019 Empire-Building Award (Nguyen has opened a second restaurant and more are on the way), as well as Readers’ Choice for Best Ramen. $$

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DINE RECOMMENDED EATING Dragonfly Robata Grill 7972 Via Dellagio Way, Orlando 407-370-3359. dragonflysushi.com/orlando D daily. Executive chef Ray Hideaki Leung’s 1,000-degree grill imparts a quick outer crisp and sublime taste to squid, mackerel, ribeye, lamb chops and a variety of other meats and fish. The sushi and sashimi selections are plentiful: The signature Classic roll with albacore tuna, whiite fish and scallions is sauced, then baked, for a combination of sweet, spicy and savory.

Dragonfly has one of the best happy hours around. $$-$$$$ Ẃ Kabooki Sushi 3122 E. Colonial Drive, Orlando 407228-3839; 7705 Turkey Lake Road, Orlando kabookisushi.com D daily. Chef/Owner Henry Moso has a passion for Japanese culture that is reflected in his inventive menu: Kazan scallops with a spicy green peppercorn coconut sauce, and tempura duck breast with Thai basil sauce. Sushi offerings are equally creative—kokonutsu lobster roll combines tempura lobster, creamy avocado, salty roe, citrus, honey, soy and toasted coconut. $$$ %Kadence 1809 Winter Park Road, Orlando kadenceorlando.com B Sat.; L Thu.-Sat.; D Tue.-Sat. Our Critic’s Pick for Best Japanese in the 2019 Dining Awards.

From this tiny eatery in Audubon Park, Mark Vyan Berdin, Lordfer Lalicon and Jennifer Bañagale create culinary jewels like Japanese skipjack and salmon roe, deep red bonito and pearly cuttlefish. The challenges are learning to literally “trust the chef” (the meaning of omakase)—and to get one of the nine seats. Fortunately, pre-ordered takeaway chirashi bowls are available for lunch and dinner. Kadence is an anomaly, a big-city, big-ticket treasure that succeeds because of, and in spite of, its uniqueness. Reserve online. $$$$ %Kobe Japanese Steakhouse Seven area locations. kobesteakhouse.com D daily. A perennial Readers’ Choice for Best Japanese. Teppanyaki chefs grill a variety of meat and seafood dishes as well as vegetables and fried rice right at your table. That always entertaining spectacle may be why our readers also picked Kobe as Best Family-Friendly Restaurant for 2019. $$$  %Seito Sushi 4898 New Broad St., Orlando 407898-8801; seitosushi.com L-D daily. Voted Best Sushi by readers in our 2019 Dining Awards. At Seito, owner Jason Chin and Executive Chef Huy Tin have elevated sushi and Pan-Asian dining to a delicious new level.

The ramen bowls are slow-cooked, heady broths swimming with braised meats, eggs and superb noodles. Teriyaki chicken and bulgogi, grilled marinated Korean beef, also are winners. The chirashi items are beautiful arrangements of seasonal fish atop seasoned sushi rice—and some of the best plates in Orlando. Also, try the eel topped with charred Asian pear. $$-$$$. Ẃ Shari Sushi Lounge 621 E. Central Blvd., Thornton Park 407-420-9420. sharisushilounge.com L Mon.Fri.; D Mon.-Sat. The food, the atmosphere and the diners are all stylish at Shari Sushi, which presents a variety of cutting-edge rolls, sashimi, and tempura. $$-$$$ Shin Sushi and Sake Bar 803 N. Orange Ave., Orlando 407-648-8000. shinsushi.com L Mon.-Fri.; D Mon.-Sat. The closest thing we have to a neighborhood sushi bar. Four Japanese chefs own and operate this North Quarter spot, serving some of Orlando’s most authentic sushi. Extensive selection of sakes. $$$ Ẃ

Sushi Pop 310 W. Mitchell Hammock Road, Oviedo 407-542-5975; 115 E. Lyman Ave., Winter Park 321203-2282. sushipoprestaurant.com D Tue.-Sun. The hip Oviedo restaurant is a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds. Giant screens play Japanese anime while waiters dressed in anime or glam-rock styles deliver eye-popping dishes like the Anaconda 2.0 roll, boasting avocado, eel and tempura shrimp. The Winter Park location has more restrained décor and a refined menu that offers esoteric cold and hot tastings, such as octopus with Spanish Iberico ham lardo and sunchoke chimichurri. The omakase, where the diner surrenders control to the chef, is transcending —sweetheart oysters, Japanese bream, bluefin tuna, tenderloin carpaccio with diver scallops, Tasmanian trout belly, and much more. $$-$$$$ Ẃ Yamasan Sushi & Grill 1606 N. Mills Ave., Orlando.

407-228-1730. yamasanorlando.com L-D daily. This trendy entry on the Mills 50 dining scene turns out fabulous sushi, tempura, udon bowls and mushi soups. $-$$ Zeta Bar & Sushi Lounge Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek, 14100 Bonnet Creek Resort Lane, Orlando 407597-3600. hiltonbonnetcreek.com/dining/zeta-barsushi-lounge D daily. Whether you’re gathering for lively conversation or to catch your favorite game, this sophisticated hotel spot offers an abundance of traditional and signature sushi rolls, sashimi and noodles, along with innovative hand-crafted cocktails, wines and beer. $$-$$$ Ẃ

KOREAN

BBB Tofu House 5140 W. Colonial Drive 407-7238299 L-D daily except closed Wednesday. Tucked away in Chinatown Plaza is this gem, with Chef-Owner Tony Teng serving up a feast of Korean delights like bulgogi (thin-sliced marinated sirloin); cheese buldak (spicy chicken topped with mozzarella); and a variety of Korean BBQ combos. BBB also offers excellent soon tofu soup, with seafood, short ribs, ramen, dumplings and more as options. Every meal comes with an assortment of house-made side dishes called banchan, ranging from kimchi and pepper-basted turnip to bean sprouts and citrus-dressed shredded cabbage. $$-$$$  Seoul Garden 511 E. Horatio Ave., Maitland 407-5995199 L-D daily except Wednesday. Standard grilled meat bulgogi barbecue, served with all those little side dishes, is here, but there’s also a world of other traditional dishes to be explored. Order the seafood pancake for an invigorating combination of simple seafood and fiery kimchi. $$ Shin Jung 1638 E. Colonial Drive, Orlando 407-8957345. shinjungkorean.com L Mon.-Fri.; D nightly.

From the grills in the center of the tables to the five types of kimchi that accompany meals, Shin Jung is authentic Korean all the way. Daeji bulgogi is tender pork in a sweet-spicy sauce. $$

LATIN/SPANISH

%Bem Bom on Corrine 3101 Corrine Dr., Orlando 407960-5101. facebook.com/bembomoncorrine L-D Tue.Sun. Our readers’ pick for Best New Restaurant in the 2019 Dining Awards. Chef/Owner Chico Mendonça has transferred the goodness of his Portuguese food truck to this bricks-and-mortar location in Audubon Park. The Rockin’ Tacos feature flour-dusted rock shrimp, charred corn, Mexican arbol chili and tomatillo sauce, slaw and toasted coconut, while the truffled

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mushroom quesadilla ($9.95) joins hand-selected mushrooms with pico de gallo and white truffle oil. A must order is the center-cut cod filet (bacalhau com batata) with smashed potatoes, dressed with peppers and caramelized onions. $$-$$$ Bulla Gastrobar 110 S. Orlando Ave., Winter Park 321-214-6120. bullagastrobar.com L-D daily. Bulla satisfies with a tasty lineup of Spanish tapas, entrees and libations. Among the standout tapas: chili and garlic infused gambas a ajillo shrimp and the huevos “Bulla,” a fried egg on crisp potatoes with Serano ham and potato foam. The large plates include an excellent seafood paella, cooked to order with the coveted soccarat, the browned crusted rice touching the pan. $-$$$$ Ẃ Cevíche Tapas Bar and Restaurant 125 W. Church St., Orlando 321-281-8140. ceviche.com D Tue.-Sat. A multitude of hot and cold tapas, plus paellas and cazuelas, are served in the styles of Northern Spain and Catalan in this upscale Church Street mainstay. $-$$$ Ẃ El Inka Grill 7600 Dr. Phillips Blvd., Orlando 407930-2810. elinkagrill.com L-D daily. Chef-Owner Ivan Colombier draws on European influences for a culinary lineup that spotlights fish, ceviche and potatoes. Try the tagliatelle pasta, served coated in pesto with grilled chicken or skirt steak. Another winning dish is the sampler of causas, a column of pureed potato topped with chopped chicken salad, shrimp and octopus. Ceviches wear all manner of colorful frocks: white fish in red pepper sauce; salmon in citrus; grilled lobster marinated in intense aji amarillo peppers. $$-$$$  %Mango’s Tropical Café 8126 International Drive, Orlando 407-673-4422. mangos.com/orlando D daily. Our Readers’ Choice winner for Best Entertainment/Live Music in the 2019 Dining Awards. Mango’s dinner show with singers, dancers and a live band begins at 7 and runs continuously through the evening.

The “Floribbean’’ menu includes churrasco steak with shrimp au gratin and grilled salmon with mango salsa.

Late at night Mango’s transforms into a DJ-led dance floor spread among eight bars. $$$  %Peru Power Food Truck 407-790-8863. facebook. com/perupowerfoodtruck Chosen by readers as Best Latin and Best Food Truck in the 2019 Dining Awards.

Fernando and Carroll Melgarejo’s truck has become a familiar sight around Central Florida, offering delights like fish and calamari tacos, potato-and-fried-eggstacked burgers, and ceviche. Their Facebook page is kept up to date, informing fans where they’ll be next.

A second food truck, Jama, serves a different menu of Peruvian street food, including fried pork belly over mac ‘n’ cheese. $-$$ Jaleo Disney Springs 321-348-3211. jaleo.com L-D daily. Renowned Chef José Andrés has brought the talents of his culinary team to town, and the results are mouthwatering. The restaurant is purely Spanish—timeless dishes given a modern twist. Basque and Asturian cheeses; mini-burgers made from Iberico pork and bacon, and 45-day aged Angus ribeye served with wood-smoked Spanish piquillo peppers (chuletas de cordero) are just some of the delights. The chicken fritters (croquetas de pollo) are crisp little tubes of pulled chicken and bechamel, served on a gold-rimmed red cushion. Bold splashes of red and yellow, a massive photo of a bullfighter’s suit of lights and a lakeside patio make for an exciting space to enjoy this Spanish treasure. $$-$$$$Ẃ

%Tapa Toro 8441 International Drive, Orlando 407226-2929 tapatoro.restaurant L-D daily. Voted Best Spanish Restaurant by readers in our 2019 Dining Awards, with Chef Frank Galeano also capturing the Best Chef category among the diners. Tapas are a big draw here, as well as paella, with versions of the rice dish showcasing seafood, as well as chicken and lamb. But Galeano also emphasizes healthful selections like a roasted eggplant “steak’’ with cauliflower, capers, kale and raisins, as well as an herbed chicken sandwich with grilled vegetables and red pepper aioli. $$-$$$ Ẃ

MEDITERRANEAN

%Bosphorous Turkish Cuisine Four Orlando-area locations. bosphorousrestaurant.com L-D daily.

Chosen by readers as Best Middle Eastern cuisine in our 2019 Dining Awards. Turkish specialties from frothy tarama (whipped caviar) to falafel, along with entrees like chargrilled chicken patties and lamb shanks with vegetables are highlights at this familyowned restaurant. Bosphorous has locations in Winter Park, Dr. Phillips, Lake Nona and, most recently, Winter Garden. $$-$$$ Cedar’s Plaza Venezia, 7732 W. Sand Lake Road, Dr. Phillips 407-351-6000. orlandocedars.com L-D daily.

Cedar’s gives Middle Eastern cuisine the respect it deserves, graciously serving high-quality standards, from a smoky baba ghannouj to lamb kebabs, in an upscale atmosphere. $$-$$$ Ẃ The H Cuisine 7512 Dr. Phillips Blvd., Orlando 407930-3020. thehcuisine.com L-D Tue.-Sun. At this new hotspot just off Restaurant Row, three resident chefs craft a menu inspired by Turkish cuisine with European influences. The H prides itself on tableside preparation, including a Chateau tender filet for two seared in butter. The most flamboyant offering is strozzapretti, an Italian pasta specialty unique in Orlando to this restaurant. Hand-rolled cavatelli are flambéd in strong spirits inside a massive, carved-out barrel of Parmigiano Reggiano with wild mushrooms and bits of ham for a creamy, cheese-abundant dish. Also noteworthy: monkfish dressed in broth and accompanied by potatoes and seasonal vegetables. $$$$ 

are one of the richly flavored delights. Also try the smoky achiote pork, slow cooked in a banana leaf for 36 hours and layered with pickled onion, cilantro and a fruity, mellow habanero salsa. $-$$ %Cocina 214 151 E. Welbourne Ave., Winter Park 407-790-7997. cocina214.com L-D daily. This restaurant just off Park Avenue is a perennial winner for Best Mexican among readers in our annual Dining Awards—2019 makes the eighth year in a row it has topped the category, and Cocina also captured reader wins for Cocktails (superb Margaritas) and Happy Hour. The extensive menu includes entrees like achiote rotisserie chicken and corn-crusted mahi, as well as a variety of tacos, burritos, enchiladas and flautas. And the annual Running of the Chihuahas each May is a hoot. $$$ Ẃ Frontera Cocina Disney Springs Town Center 407560-9197. fronteracocina.com L-D daily. Chef Rick Bayless, an eight-time James Beard Award winner, creates true Mexican fare, with delights like carne asada, Black Angus steak steeped in garlic and red chilies; tortas, a crusty bread roll stuffed with achiote-seasoned pork shoulder; and coctel verde, shrimp and scallops dressed ceviche-style in lime, avocado and sharp pepper-tomatillo salsa. Don’t miss the delicious sikil pak, a spicy Yucatecan pumpkin seed dip. $$-$$$$  %Hunger Street Tacos 2103 W. Fairbanks Ave., Winter Park 407-444-6270. hungerstreettacos.com L-D Mon.-Sat., BR Sat. Brothers Joseph and David Creech, winners of our critic’s 2019 Rising Stars Award, present delectable tacos, quesadillas and tostadas

that define the real Mexico. Try the suadero, seared marinated brisket with cilantro, lime and an avocadotomatillo sauce. Two taco offerings that leap from classic to fusion are the “Grilled Cheese,’’ melding halloumi, refried beans, Serrano-lime salsa and mint; and a panko-fried avocado wedge, served with shredded cabbage, pepper-lime crema and queso cotija. $-$$ Mi Casa Tequila Taqueria Rosen Shingle Creek, 9939 Universal Blvd., Orlando 407-996-9939. rosenshinglecreek.com L-D daily. This gem dazzles with Mexican dishes crafted by Hawaiian-born chef Cameron Hostellero. The Flounder Vera Cruz boasts lightly coated fish topped with flaked crab, avocado and slaw. The filet tostada features a chipotle-pepperrubbed Angus filet atop fried tortillas layered with Manchango cheese and salsa rojo. The giant margaritas are a must. $$-$$$  Reyes Mezcaleria 821 N. Orange Ave., Orlando 407868-9007. reyesmex.com L Mon-Fri; D daily; BR Sat.Sun. Restaurateur Jason Chin (Seito Sushi, The Osprey Tavern) ventures into Mexican cuisine in downtown’s North Quarter, and the results are impressive. What he calls “regionally inspired Mexican cuisine’’ includes offerings like tacos stuffed with crispy fish; hamachi tostadas with salmon roe, lime aioli and crushed peanut chile oil; chicken mole with roasted cauliflower and baby carrots; and whole or fileted line-caught snapper with roasted tomatoes, olives, capers, lemon and rice. $$-$$$ 

Villa de Flora Gaylord Palms Resort, 6000 W. Osceola Parkway, Kissimmee 407-586-1114. gaylordpalms.com B-D daily; BR Sun. Make your way around the Mediterranean market-like buffet and enjoy such dishes as Valencian seafood paella, osso buco with gremolata, and chicken cacciatore. Villa de Flora also has one of the more popular Sunday brunches in the area. $$$ Ẃ

MEXICAN/TEX-MEX

Agave Azul 4750 S. Kirkman Road, Orlando 407704-6930; 900 S. Orlando Ave., Winter Park 321972-3414. agaveazulorlando.com L-D daily. A bountiful menu ranging from Fajitas de Camaron (grilled shrimp sauteed with onions, bell peppers, tomatoes and mushrooms) to Arrachera (grilled marinated skirt steak, topped with chimicurri sauce). Agave Azul also offers lots of drink choices—as in more than 100 brands of tequila to choose from. $-$$$ Black Rooster Taqueria 1323 Mills Ave.., Orlando.

407-601-0994. blackroostertaqueria.com L-D Tue.Sun. At this this farm-to-taco eatery in the Mills 50 District, John Calloway creates hand-pressed corn tortillas and emphasizes savory rather than spicy.

Crispy red grouper tacos—beer-battered fish piled with pickled cabbage, avocado and fresh cilantro—

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Sign up: COCINA214.COM/LOYALTY 451Not S. Atlantic 151 E Welbourne Ave cocina214.com Daytona Beach, FL 32118 Park, 32789 VOTED BEST TEX-MEX & MEXICAN IN ORLANDOWinter 8 YEARS IN AFL ROW! DaytonaParty@Cocina214.com Party@Cocina214.com WWW.COCINA214.COM DINE | AUGUST 2019 | ORLANDOMAGAZINE.COM | 87

DINE RECOMMENDED EATING Tijuana Flats Multiple area locations. tijuanaflats. com L-D daily. From humble beginnings in Winter Park, Tijuana Flats has spread across Florida and beyond. Using the freshest ingredients—and making an amazing array of hot sauces available—quesadillas, crispy tacos and of course flour tortillas keep diners coming back. $

SANDWICHES

%Bad As’s Sandwich 207 N. Primrose Drive, Orlando 407-757-7191 badasssandwiches.com Open daily. Winner of both the critic’s and readers’ picks for Best Sandwiches in the 2019 Dining Awards. John Collazo’s neighborhood sandwich shop is a required stop if you’re looking for terrific, boldly flavored combinations in handhelds. Try the signature Bad As’s sandwich with its stack of well-seasoned beef, pork, chicken, Havarti cheese, pickled onions and garlic aioli.

A frequent special is the Capone, a mouthwatering Italian collection of mortadella, capocollo, ham, chorizo, Fontina cheese and basil-manchego aioli. Servings are large—and multi-napkin juicy. $ Beefy King 424 N. Bumby Ave., Orlando 407-8942241. beefyking.com B-L Mon.-Sat. Nobody would enter the circa-1960s Beefy King on a whim, but they’d miss moist and tender roast beef, pastrami, turkey and ham cooked on premises and served from a steam table just like in the delis of old. $ The Deli Downtown 18 N. Boyd St., Winter Garden 407-347-3873. thedelidowntownwg.com L daily; D Mon.-Sat. Chef Joseph Burnett is creating casual masterpieces in downtown Winter Garden, including sandwiches, soups and salads. The Buffalo chicken sandwich is a magnificent combination of tender beer-braised chicken, fragrant Marbleu blue Monterey Jack cheese, house-pickled celery and house-made ranch and Buffalo sauce. Other winning sandwich combinations: carved roast beef and horseradish; pulled pork and Oaxaca cheese; and jack fruit with whiskey barbecue sauce. $ %Pom Pom’s Teahouse & Sandwicheria 67 N. Bumby Ave., Orlando 407-894-0865. pompomsteahouse.com L-D daily (open 24 hours Fri.-Sat.).

This Milk District favorite offers two dozen inventive sandwiches and an array of salads. Try the Fu Man Chu sandwich, a wild combination of Asian-spiced pulled pork, goat cheese and ginger-cranberry chutney. Chef/Owner Pom Moongauklang is a 2019 inductee into our Dining Hall of Fame. $ Stasio’s Italian Deli & Market 210 N. Bumby Ave., Orlando 407-277-7755. Open daily except Sunday. Maria and Louie Palo and children Al, Diana and Michael operate this Milk District standout, offering imported pastas, Mulino Bianco cookies, sweet salciccia sausage and a host of other treats. The deli case holds family recipes like chicken pesto meatballs and freshbaked lasagna, while popular sandwiches include the ribeye steak, superb eggplant Paqrmigiana and “The Stasio” of prosciutto, capocollo, soppresata and fresh mozzarella. $-$$ %TooJay’s Gourmet Deli Six area locations. toojays.com L-D daily. Winner of the Readers’ Choice for Best Deli in our 2019 Dining Awards.

TooJay’s serves up thick corned beef, pastrami and turkey sandwiches, along with house-made salads.

Comfort food like shepherd’s pie, pot roast and meatloaf also is in abundance. The chocolate Killer Cake is legendary. $-$$

SEAFOOD

Bonefish Grill Eight area locations. bonefishgrill.com D nightly. From the folks who brought us Outback, this is a casual seafood chain with a sleek edge. Fish selections are seared over oak and topped with sauces like mango salsa or garlic-gorgonzola butter. $$-$$$ %deep blu seafood grille Wyndham Grand Orlando, Bonnet Creek, 14651 Chelonia Parkway, Orlando 407-390-2420. deepbluorlando.com D nightly.

Our Readers’ Choice winner for Best Seafood, Best Hotel Restaurant and Best Service in the 2019 Dining Awards. Deep blu shines with an inventive menu that features selections like lobster with seafood stuffing, blu crab crusted grouper, and seafood Cioppino. Or try the black and blu linguine: Squid ink is blended with the pasta to create silky, black strands, which Chef Wade McLamb mixes with fresh blue crab, arugula, cherry tomatoes and tops with shaved parmesan. A must-order is the blu crab mac n’ cheese. $$$-$$$$ Ẃ %Eddie V’s 7488 W. Sand Lake Road, Orlando 407-355-3011. eddiev.com D nightly. Seafood is the specialty of the kitchen, where moist grouper simply sauteed in garlic is given the same attention as an intricate lemon sole coated in a Parmesan crust. But steaks also stand out, from the center-cut filet mignon to the huge 22-ounce charred ribeye. The side dish menu includes crab fried rice, an entrée in itself, but a must-try is the truffled macaroni and cheese.

Eddie V’s also boasts a dazzling happy hour menu, including lollipop lamb chops, lump crab cake, and Kung Pao Calamari. Our 2019 Readers’ Choice for Best Restaurant for a Business Dinner. $$$-$$$$ Ẃ FishBones 6707 Sand Lake Road, Orlando 407-3520135; 7005 County Road 46A, Lake Mary 407-5812399. fishbonesorlando.com D nightly. FishBones serves just-caught seafood along with aged steaks and prime rib in a relaxed yet refined Key Westthemed dining room. $$-$$$$ Ẃ %Flying Fish Disney’s Boardwalk, Lake Buena Vista 407-939-3463 disneyworld.disney.go.com D daily.

The cuisine created by Chef Tim Majoras, our Critic’s Choice as Best Chef in the 2019 Dining Awards, is magnificent, with the menu adapting to the seasons and availability. Items like St. Augustine soft shell crab, Cedar Key clams and rock shrimp take full advantage of local specialties. The Hokkaido scallops with grits, sweet corn and peppadew is superb. $$$$ Ẃ %Hemingway’s One Grand Cypress Blvd., Orlando 407-239-1234. grandcypress.hyatt.com D daily. This Keys-themed restaurant at the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress has delighted diners for more than three decades. The shrimp scampi is impressive—jumbo tiger shrimp with pappardelle pasta and fried green tomatoes in white wine butter sauce. Other winners include the Seafod Paella Valencia and the crab cakes served with sweet corn coconut grits. And you must stop by the bar so that Fred Rhode, a 2019 inductee into our Dining Hall of Fame, can craft you a Papa Doble—spiced rum, Bacardi, orange and pineapple. $$$-$$$$ Ẃ Johnnie’s Hideaway 12551 State Road 535, Orlando 407-827-1111. johnnieshideaway.com D nightly. This modern Caribbean-styled dining room serves simply prepared quality steaks and fresh fish to emphasize old Florida and Floribbean cuisine. Johnnie’s is complete with a lakeside Hideaway Tiki Deck & Raw Bar. $$$-$$$$ Ẃ

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Ocean Prime Rialto, 7339 W. Sand Lake Road, Orlando 407-781-4880. ocean-prime.com D nightly.

Superb seafood and steaks are presented in a supper club atmosphere, while jazz plays in the artistically lit piano bar. The surf and turf boasts a filet, butter-poached lobster tail, gouda potato cake and chili seared spinach. The sea scallops with Parmesan risotto is another winner, as is the black truffle macaroni and cheese. $$$$ Ẃ The Oceanaire Seafood Room Pointe Orlando, 9101 International Drive, Orlando 407-363-4801. theoceanaire.com D nightly. More than 25 species of fish and shellfish are flown in daily. The wine list is tailored for pairings with seafood, and the vintage ocean liner décor complements the nautical menu. $$$-$$$$ Ẃ Paddlefish Disney Springs, 407-934-2628 paddlefishrestaurant.com L-D daily. Aboard a docked paddleboat that was once Fulton’s Crab House, this Disney standout’s menu is extensive, with charred octopus and lobster corn dogs among the starters. The main courses include scallops with brown butter, cauliflower puree, crispy Brussels sprouts and bacon; and the market catch with Macadamia nut crust, red curry and crab fried rice. There’s all manner of seafood boils as well, and landlubbers can opt for a steak, chops or chicken. $$$$ Ẃ Reel Fish Coastal Kitchen 1234 N. Orange Ave., Winter Park 407-543-3474. reelfishcoastal.com L Tue.-Fri.; D Tues.-Sat.; BR Sat.-Sun. At Reel Fish, in the former Ravenous Pig location, restaurant veteran Fred Thimm takes an upscale fish camp vibe and runs with it. The restaurant’s takes on “fish camp classics’’—fried shrimp, scallops, oysters or fish—are flawlessly cooked, with a slightly salted batter. The fish dip boasts flaked trout mixed with matchsticks of green apple. $$-$$$  Todd English’s bluezoo Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel, 1500 Epcot Resorts Blvd., Lake Buena Vista, 407-934-1111. swananddolphin.com D nightly. Chef/ TV personality Todd English runs this contemporary seafood restaurant. The over-the-top design sets the stage for the menu’s “coastal cuisine,” essentially a fusion of flavors from the U.S., Europe and Asia. $$$-$$$$ Ẃ Winter Park Fish Company 761 Orange Ave., Winter Park 407-622-6112 thewinterparkfishco.com L-D Mon.-Sat. With signature seasonings and housemade sauces, this quick-service restaurant is a must for any seafood lover. The wine list features a selection of California wines to enhance any meal. Be sure to try the lobster roll and the savory hushpuppies. $$-$$$ Ẃ

SOUTHERN

%The COOP 610 W. Morse Blvd., Winter Park 407843-2667. asouthernaffair.com B-L-D Mon.-Sat. Voted Best Southern by readers in our 2019 Dining Awards. 4 Rivers barbecue king John Rivers’ venture into fried chicken, catfish and other down-home cuisine has produced pretty much perfection. Some standouts: fried green tomatoes on a BLT, housemade pimento cheese, Low Country shrimp and grits, and chicken ‘n waffles. Yum. $-$$ Highball & Harvest Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes, 4012 Central Florida Parkway, Orlando 407393-4422. ritzcarlton.com B-L-D daily. Scrumptious Southern fare is on the menu, including Cast-Iron Quail with Hoppin’ John, and Brown Butter Trout.

Other winners are the shrimp and grits, and The Southern Spread—an assortment of pimento cheese, pickles and smoked fish dip. $$$-$$$$ Ẃ

House of Blues Downtown Disney, 1490 E. Buena Vista Drive, Lake Buena Vista 407-934-2623. hob. com L-D daily; BR Sun.. For a casual bite to eat at Downtown Disney, this Southern-Soul restaurant does the trick. Opt for the fried shrimp po’ boy or the jambalaya, and reserve time for the famous buffet Gospel Brunch on Sundays. $$ Ẃ Soco-Southern Contemporary Cuisine 629 East Central Blvd., Orlando 407-849-1800 socothorntonpark.com D daily; BR Sun. Chef Greg Richie delivers delicious down-home cuisine highlighted by creative twists, including lobster, shrimp and grits; pecan-crusted pork chop; buttermilk fried chicken; molasses-braised short ribs; and fried pickled oysters.

There’s also an impressive lineup of craft cocktails. $$$-$$$$ Ẃ

STEAK HOUSES

Bull & Bear Waldorf Astoria Orlando, 14200 Bonnet Creek Resort Lane, Orlando 407-597-5500. bullandbearorlando.com D nightly. Handsome furnishings, including sparkling chandeliers and a coffered ceiling, give the Bull & Bear space a club-like ambience. Offerings include beef short ribs braised in Syrah wine; Chateaubriand for two; oak plank salmon; and panroasted Colorado lamb. $$$$ Ẃ The Capital Grille Pointe Orlando, 9101 International Drive, Orlando 407-370-4392; The Mall at Millenia, 4200 Conroy Road, Orlando 407-351-2210. thecapitalgrille.com L Mon.-Fri.; D nightly. Dry-aged steak, doting service and a 300-plus-label wine list are the calling cards of this upscale steakhouse. Try creative alternatives such as Kona-crusted sirloin with caramelized shallot butter. The classic décor is D.C.centric—you’ll expect to see a senator dining nearby. $$$-$$$$ Ẃ Charley’s Steak House 2901 Parkway Blvd. Suite A1, Kissimmee 407-396-6055; 8255 International Drive, Orlando 407-363-0228. charleyssteakhouse.com D nightly. Charley’s custom-built pit gives steak, chicken, chops and fish a distinctive flavor, and a list of over 800 wine selections makes for the ultimate steakhouse experience. $$-$$$$ Ẃ %Christner’s Prime Steak & Lobster 729 Lee Road, Orlando 407-645-4443. christnersprimesteakandlobster.com D Mon.-Sat. Year in and year out, readers pick Christner’s as the city’s best steak house: They were tops once again in our 2019 Dining Awards poll, and also captured the Best Old Favorite category.

Owners Carole, David and Alice Christner serve USDA Prime, corn-fed Midwestern beef and Australian cold-water lobster tails in a masculine, woodsy atmosphere. There’s also a 6,500-bottle wine cellar and an extensive single-malt scotch collection. $$$ Ẃ Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steak House 9150 International Drive, Orlando. 407-351-5074 delfriscos. com L Mon.-Fri.; D daily. Offering prime steak and fresh-off-the-boat seafood, this I-Drive restaurant also boasts two floors, two bars, four private dining rooms—and a wine list of more than 1,200 selections. $$$$. Ẃ Eleven at Reunion Resort Reunion Resort, 7593 Gathering Drive, Reunion. 407-662-1170. reunionresort.com D Tue.-Sat. Situated atop the 11-story Reunion Grande building, Eleven boasts stunning 360-degree panoramas of the area. Menu offerings include 1855 Premium Black Angus filet, New York strip and sirloin, along with 21-day dry-aged ribeye and Porterhouse. All are seasoned with a house-

made 11-spice blend. Among the seafood items are sea bass with smoked cabbage and pecan brown butter. $$$-$$$$ Ẃ

popping cut of meat. The roasted Brussels sprouts, lobster mac & cheese, and fire-roasted corn are among the side dish standouts. $$$$ Ẃ

Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar 933 N. Orlando Ave., Winter Park 407-699-9463; Dellagio Plaza, 8030 Via Dellagio Way, Orlando 407-352-5706. flemingssteakhouse.com D nightly. With a contemporary dining room and 100 wines by the glass, Fleming’s is a lively take on steak houses. All cuts are aged USDA prime corn-fed beef. $$$ Ẃ Jack’s Place Rosen Plaza Hotel, 9700 International Drive, Orlando 407-996-1787. jacksplacerestaurant. com D nightly. Sample steaks and seafood while surrounded by the world’s largest collection of autographed caricatures of stars and dignitaries. $$$ Ẃ

Spencer’s for Steaks and Chops The Hilton Orlando, 6001 Destination Parkway, Orlando 407-313-8625. spencersforsteaksandchops.com D Tue.-Sat. You’ll find modern twists on classic American cuisine at this steak house. Steaks are aged 21 to 28 days in-house and beautifully seared to order. $$$$ Ẃ Texas de Brazil 5259 International Drive, Orlando 407-355-0355. texasdebrazil.com L Mon.-Fri.; D nightly. Texas de Brazil is a splendidly executed Brazilian churrascaria. Waiters stop at tables to offer chunks of seared, tender meats, and the salad bar is bursting with additions such as roasted red peppers and imported cheeses. $$-$$$$ Ẃ %The Venetian Chop House Caribe Royale Resort, 8101 World Center Drive, Lake Buena Vista 407238-8060. cariberoyale.com D Mon.-Sat. Winner of our 2019 Readers’ Choice award for Most Romantic Restaurant. A top-end, fine-dining experience within a hotel, the Venetian is full of deep tones, cut crystal and a replica of Tempietto de San Pietro in the corner.

Among the marvelous dishes is the lobster bisque under a dome of pastry. Entrees include bison short ribs with onion jam, New York strip, filet mignon, veal chop with porcini butter, and an herb-crusted pork chop. $$$-$$$$ Ẃ

Kres Chophouse 17 W. Church St., Downtown Orlando 407-447-7950. kresrestaurant.com L Mon.-Fri.; D Mon.-Sat. Kres’ urban panache attracts downtown’s see-and-be-seen crowd, who fill its dramatic booths to try out sizzling steaks and chops. $$$-$$$$ Ẃ A Land Remembered Rosen Shingle Creek, 9939 Universal Blvd., Orlando 866-996-9939. landrememberedrestaurant.com L-D daily. Themed around Patrick Smith’s novel of the same name, which chronicles a Central Florida family’s experiences around the time of the Civil War, A Land Remembered serves a menu centered on steaks from the Harris Ranch. $$-$$$$ Ẃ Linda’s La Cantina 4721 E. Colonial Drive, Orlando 407-894-4491. lindaslacantinasteakhouse.com D Tue.-Sun. Linda’s has been serving steaks to Orlandoans for more than 70 years. It specializes in steak and seafood, with all of its USDA choice steaks cut on site.

Enjoy a cocktail at the fire fountain lounge before your meal. $$-$$$  Morton’s The Steakhouse Dr. Phillips Marketplace, 7600 Dr. Phillips Blvd., Orlando 407-248-3485. mortons.com D nightly. This local outlet of the national chain has made its reputation on 24-ounce Porterhouse steaks, 20-ounce New York sirloin, and 14-ounce double-cut filets. Bar 12-21 features petite filet mignon sandwiches. Don’t forget to try the hot chocolate cake. $$$$ Ẃ Old Hickory Steakhouse Gaylord Palms Resort, 6000 W. Osceola Parkway, Kissimmee 407-586-1600 gaylordpalms.com D nightly. Designed to look like a rustic Everglades retreat, Old Hickory emphasizes naturally aged, grain-fed Angus beef with your choice of toppings, plus seafood and handcrafed artisanal cheeses. The award-winning wine list is extensive, offering more than 40 different Cabernet Sauvignon selections alone. $$$$ Ẃ The Palm Hard Rock Hotel, 5800 Universal Blvd., Orlando 407-503-7256. thepalm.com/orlando D nightly. Lavish steaks and giant lobster tails are this high-end restaurant’s delicious bread-and-butter. The Palm—filled with 1920s and ’30s caricatures—traces its origins back to 1926, when Italian natives opened the first location in New York City. Don’t miss the jumbo lump crab cake or the ahi tuna. $$$$. Ẃ Ruth’s Chris Steak House Winter Park Village, 610 N. Orlando Ave., Winter Park 407-622-2444; The Fountains, 7501 Sand Lake Road, Dr. Phillips 407226-3900; 80 Colonial Center Parkway, Heathrow 407-804-8220. ruthschris.com D nightly. A topquality restaurant with a reputation for excellent service, Ruth’s Chris serves each steak sizzling hot on a 500-degree plate to preserve the beef’s temperature and flavor. The 11-ounce filet is divine, while the 40-ounce Tomahawk ribeye is an eye-

THAI

Sea Thai 3812 E. Colonial Drive, Orlando 407-8950985. seathaiorlando.com L-D daily. Don’t let the strip mall fool you—the inner ambience and extensive menu of Sea Thai (the “Sea’’ stands for South East Asia) shine through. A haven for spicy-food lovers, there’s something delicious for all, from the spicy beef salad to the garlic chili fish to the popular crispy Panang duck. $$ %Thai Blossom 99 W. Plant St., Winter Garden 407-905-9917. mythaiblossom.com L-D daily. The Readers’ Choice winner for Best Thai in our 2019 Dining Awards. Located on the first floor of the historic Edgewater Hotel, Thai Blossom offers affordable Thai favorites and a selection of salad and seafood dishes.

The scrumptious creations include mussels in green curry, ginger duck, and a whole soft shell crab served as an appetizer. $$

VEGETARIAN

%Dandelion Communitea Café 618 N. Thornton Ave., Orlando 407-362-1864. dandelioncommunitea. com L-D Mon.-Sat, L Sun. Winner of Best Vegetarian from readers in our 2019 Dining Awards.

Taking residence in a 1920s house, Dandelion is a local leader in using sustainable, organic and environmentally friendly ingredients. The atmosphere is definitely homespun; having a vegan chili bowl or veggie wrap for lunch here is more like visiting a friendly, local, music-minded aunt than sitting in a restaurant. Beer and wine are available, and local artworks are showcased. $ Ethos Vegan Kitchen 601-B New York Ave., Winter Park 407-228-3898. ethosvegankitchen.com L-D Mon.-Sat.; BR Sat.-Sun. Ethos takes its name seriously, serving pizzas, sandwiches and entrées from an exclusively vegan kitchen. You will feast on such specialties as Sheep’s Pie (meatless with broccoli, carrots peas, onions, mashed potatoes and gravy), Mac ‘n Cheese ‘n Peas, and Bay Cakes, made with chickpeas, celery and fesh herbs. Vegan beer and wine are served, and a jazz/funk brunch is presented every Sunday. $-$$

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DINE RECOMMENDED EATING Infusion Tea 1600 Edgewater Drive, Orlando 407-9995255. infusionorlando.com B-L-D Mon.-Sat, L-D Sun. It wasn’t the first tea shop in College Park, but Infusion certainly started the alternative vibe in this neighborly neighborhood. A center of the local art, crafting and writers’ scene, the kitchen serves fresh-made soups, salads and sandwiches with an organic and local slant, along with dozens of flavored and exotic teas. $ %Market on South 2603 E. South St., Orlando 407613-5968 marketonsouth.com B-L-D Mon.-Sat., B-L Sun. The 2019 Critic’s Choice for Best Neighborhood Restaurant. If you turn up your nose at the thought of “plant-based dining,’’ then you’ve never eaten at this popular spot beside the 408. Not to be missed: Chef Shaun Noonan’s Carolina BBQ pulled jackfruit or Celine Duvoisin’s much-in-demand doughnuts (“100% egg-free and dairy-free and not healthy at all’’). $-$$ %Proper & Wild 155 E. Morse Blvd. Winter Park 407543-8425 properandwildwp.com L Mon.-Fri; D Tue.Sat.; BR Sat.-Sun. This recently opened gem from Chelsie and Jamie Savage offers sophisticated menu items like burgers made from lentils and shiitake mushrooms, and a winter squash curry that doesn’t flaunt its meatlessness so much as make you question the need for meat at all. Other delights: chickpea fries, avocado caprese, and Heartcakes (young palm, bok choy, mustard frills, panang remoulade). Our critic’s choice for Best Plant-Based Restaurant in the 2019 Dining Awards. $$  The Sanctum Café 715 N Fern Creek Ave. Orlando 407-757-0346. thesanctumcafe.com B-L-D Mon.Sat.; BR Sun. Chef/Owner Chelsie Savage refers to her restaurant as “plant based” and “healthy” before the word vegetarian is mentioned. Sourcing locally and organically whenever possible, this neighborhood favorite now offers dinner menus and Sunday brunch along with the popular lunch fare. Try the coconut polenta cakes with cabbage slaw and sriracha; and the Southern Soul bowl of mushroom gravy, black-eyed pea tempeh, organic potato and brown rice. $-$$

array of soups, silky and sweet pad thai, pan-fried noodles and caramelized shrimp and pork belly are some of the sights and aromas that await you at this eatery. $ Viet Garden 1237-1239 E. Colonial Drive, Orlando 407-896-4154. vietgardenorlando.com L-D daily.

Fusing the cuisines of Vietnam and Thailand freely, Viet Garden garners reader votes regularly for its reasonably priced chicken satay, pad Thai and spicy stir-fried beef with vermicelli. $-$$$

WINE BARS AND LOUNGES

The Attic Door 28 W. Plant Street, Winter Garden.

407-750--7063 jrsatticdoor.com Afternoon tea Sat. Sun.; D (snacks/small plates) Tue.-Sat. This eclectic spot proclaims itself “the swankiest little wine bar and live music venue around.’’ Relax with a glass of wine in one of the mismatched chairs or leather sofas amid the funky array of lamps and tables. Recently added: traditional afternoon tea service on Saturday and Sunday, with fresh-baked scones, finger sandwiches and desserts. $-$$ Ẃ Blue Martini Pointe Orlando, 9101 International Drive, Suite 1182, Orlando 407-447-2583. bluemartinilounge. com Open daily. Live music, cocktails accented with glow sticks, trendy bar foods and a lively dance floor lure upscale singles. $-$$ Ẃ Bösendorfer Lounge The Grand Bohemian Hotel, 325 S. Orange Ave., Downtown Orlando 407-3139000. grandbohemianhotel.com Open daily. Black marble, red stone and mirrors, plus an Imperial Grand Bösendorfer piano, create an edgy and upscale environment for martinis, indulgent nibbles, casual power meetings and entertainment. $-$$ Ẃ Eden Bar 1300 S. Orlando Ave., Maitland 407-6 291088. enzian.org L-D daily. Taking a cue from Hapsburg beer gardens, Eden offers a bucolic outdoor set-

VIETNAMESE

Little Saigon 1106 E. Colonial Drive, Orlando 407423-8539. littlesaigonrestaurant.com L-D daily. This Mills 50 District mainstay offers a wide variety of rice and vermicelli dishes topped with your choice of meat and vegetables. But it’s the soups that are the go-to for the many faithful—steaming bowls full of pork or beef, noodles, and fresh basil. The summer rolls with peanut sauce are a must. $-$$ %Pho 88 Vietnamese Restaurant 730 N. Mills Ave., Orlando 407-897-3488. pho88orlando.com L-D daily.

Chosen as Best Vietnamese by our readers in the 2019 Dining Awards. The specialty here is pho—broth, noodles and meat—with choices seemingly endless (11 variations of beef noodle soup alone). Other menu items include beef stew, stir-fried noodle dishes, and the banh mi Vietnamese sub. $-$$ Pho Vinh 657 N. Primrose Drive, Orlando 407-2280043. phovinhorlando.com L-D daily. An impressive menu of Vietnamese dishes features soups, noodles and rice platters. Pho Vinh serves a standout example of a dish enshrined in our Dining Hall of Fame—Buùn Chaû GioøThòt Nöôùng, rice vermicelli with charbroiled pork and spring rolls. $-$$.

Saigon Noodle & Grill 101 N. Bumby Ave, Orlando 407-532-7373; 710 S. Goldenrod Rd., Orlando. 407658-1967. saigonnoodleandgrill.com L-D daily. An 90 | ORLANDOMAGAZINE.COM | AUGUST 2019 | DINE

ting right outside the Enzian theater. Local and international beers and a good selection of wines snuggle up with salads, nachos and sandwiches, along with Austrian goulash and unusual pizzas (potato and bacon, anyone?). $-$$ Ẃ Eola Wine Company 430 E. Central Blvd., Orlando 407-481-9100. eolawinecompany.com Open daily.

Part retail shop, part lounge, Eola Wine offers an impressive variety of labels, more than 100 wines by the glass and a commendable selection of beers.

Nibble on flatbreads, cheese platters and bruschetta “flights.” $-$$ Ẃ %The Vineyard Wine Company 1140 Town Park Ave., Suite 1260, Lake Mary 407-833-WINE. thevineyardwinecompany.com Open daily. The Readers’ Choice winner for Best-Kept Secret and Best Wine List in our 2019 Dining Awards. With a variety of tapas, lunch and dinner entrées, desserts, and platters to accompany your wine, this spot is more than just a lounge. Sit back with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc while enjoying the live music Tuesday through Saturday. $-$$ Ẃ %The Wine Room 270 Park Avenue South,, Winter Park 407-696-WINE. thewineroomonline. com Open daily. Warm and inviting, The Wine Room offers hundreds of wines. Dozens are available as 1- to 3-oz. samples paid for through a debit system. Selections can be enjoyed along with handcrafted meats and cheeses. Voted Best Wine Bar by readers in our 2019 Dining Awards. $-$$ Ẃ MORE ONLINE: Be sure to check out additional restuarant listings and other reviews in our dining section on orlandomagazine.com.

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GOOD GRAPES

Harvest season has arrived, and that means grape-stomping competitions at Lakeridge Winery’s annual Harvest Grape Stomp in Clermont, Aug. 17-18. Enjoy live entertainment, wine tastings and vineyard tours.

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Strings & Things, an Irish folk/crossover band, performs at the 8th annual Great Irish Hooley festival, Aug. 30-Sept. 2 at Raglan Road in Disney Springs, p. 93.

SEAWORLD ELECTRIC OCEAN Through Sept. 1: As the sun sets on select nights, the park comes alive with exciting nighttime shows and electrifying music.

Guests are immersed in a sea of wonder that ends in a fireworks finale. Included with theme park admission. SeaWorld Orlando, 7007 Sea World Drive, Orlando. seaworldparks.com THE LEGO MOVIE DAYS Aug. 3-4: Join Emmet and the gang for character experiences with the stars of The LEGO Movie films, interactive photo opportunities, exclusive LEGO building activities and specially-themed dining offers. Included in park admission. LEGOLAND, 1 Legoland Way, Winter Haven. florida.legoland.com

SUMMER FUN DAYS Aug. 3 & 10: Guest speakers, hands-on demonstrations, artifact discovery, tours with the museum curator, art projects and more offer indoor educational fun for the whole family. Free. Lake Wales Museum, 325 S. Scenic Hwy., Lake Wales. 863-676-1759. lakewalesmuseum.org STORY TIME AT LEU GARDENS Aug. 5: The Orange County Library System comes to the gardens to share stories and songs with infants at 10 a.m., toddlers at 10:20 a.m. and preschoolers at 10:40 a.m. Free.

1920 N. Forest Ave., Orlando. 407-246-2620. leugardens.org POLLINATION IN ACTION Aug. 10: Stroll the gardens of the Polasek Museum with master gardener and specialized horticulturalist Teresa Watkins to learn about native and exotic species, pollinator-friendly plants and how to attract pollinators to your

home garden. 10 a.m. Albin Polasek Museum and Sculpture Gardens, 633 Osceola Ave., Winter Park. 407-647-6294. polasek.org ORLANDO SHAKES OPEN HOUSE Aug. 10: Participate in sound and lighting demonstrations, hear snippets from potential upcoming shows, go behind the scenes in an exclusive backstage tour, get access to onetime-only discounts on tickets while kids can enjoy coloring, crafts and story time. 11 a.m.3 p.m. Free. Lowndes Shakespeare Center, 812 E. Rollins St., Orlando. 407-447-1700. orlandoshakes.org FIRE SAFETY WEEKEND Aug. 10-11: The National Fire Protection Association presents an event at LEGOLAND to teach kids about fire safety with activities including a character experience with LEGO Max, a fire safety-themed scavenger hunt and a LEGO mosaic build. Included in park admis-

EVENT SUBMISSIONS: For inclusion in On The Town, send event information to hancel.deaton@orlandomagazine.com. Deadline for print is two and a half months prior to the event date. Events can also be submitted to our online calendar at orlandomagazine.com (these will not be printed).

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MORGAN CRUTCHFIELD

SPECIAL EVENTS

ONGOING EVENTS sion. LEGOLAND, 1 Legoland Way, Winter Haven. florida.legoland.com ORLANDO GAY DAYS Aug. 13-19: This annual festival offers travel packages that include special events, VIP passes, designated days at Disney theme parks, and the Miss Gay Days Pageant. Gay Days headquarters can be found at the host hotel, the Wyndham Orlando Resort, 8001 International Drive, Orlando. gaydays.com FLORIDA KIDS AND FAMILY EXPO Aug. 17-18: Over 150 exhibitors provide adults the opportunity to discover resources, products and services to enrich family life while children create, play and collect free stuff, all in air-conditioned comfort. Saturday 10 a.m.5 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Orange County Convention Center, Hall C, 9800 International Drive, Orlando. mycentralfloridafamily.com HARVEST GRAPE STOMP Aug. 17-18: With the arrival of harvest season at the vineyard, it’s time for a little grape-stomping competition. This family friendly activity includes live music, complimentary winery tours and tastings, plus beer, soft drinks and food for sale. Free. Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards, 19239 U.S. Highway 27 North, Clermont. lakeridgewinery.com ORLANDO FALL HOME & GARDEN SHOW Aug. 23-25: Turn your home-and-garden dreams into reality with help from experts and exhibits featuring the latest in products and services—everything from builders and contractors to decks, pools, spas, entertainment systems, storage systems, plants, kitchenware and more. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Orange County Convention Center, North Hall B, 9400 Universal Blvd., Orlando. showtechnology.com/event/ orlando-fall-home-garden-show VISIT ORLANDO’S MAGICAL DINING MONTH Aug. 23-Sept. 30: Satisfy your cravings for haute cuisine at reasonable prices during this five-week culinary promotion of the region’s best dining. More than 70 of Central Florida’s top restaurants feature three-course, prix fixe dinners for $35 each, with a dollar from each meal donated to a local charity. 407-3635872. visitorlando.com/magicaldining FLORIDA WEDDING EXPO Aug. 25: More than 125 vendor exhibits, chances to enter more than 100 giveaways and win 25 grand prizes including 5 honeymoons and free wedding services. Noon-5 p.m. Orange County Convention Center, West Concourse, 9800 International Drive, Orlando. floridaweddingexpo.com SUNBURST CONVENTION Aug. 28-Sept.1: Impersonators, tribute bands, lookalikes and impressionists converge at The Florida Hotel and Conference Center for an industry conference open to current and future professionals. 1500 Sand Lake Road, Orlando.

407-226-9088. sunburstconvention.com

EPCOT INTERNATIONAL FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL Aug. 29-Nov. 23: Taste the world from one location in Central Florida as dozens of international food markets pop up within this Disney theme park. Experience the art of celebrity chefs, attend culinary demonstrations, and enjoy “Eat to the Beat” concerts. It’s more than two months of food and fun. Walt Disney World’s Epcot World Showcase, Lake Buena Vista. disneyworld.disney.go.com THE GREAT IRISH HOOLEY Aug. 30-Sept. 2: This 8th annual Labor Day weekend Irish music festival combines authentic Celtic step dancing, traditional food and drink, face painting and fun, plus the best Irish music this side of the Atlantic. This year’s musical lineup includes Billow Wood, Strings & Things, TradGad, High Time, Maca, and Stephen & Abby. Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant, Disney Springs, 1640 E. Buena Vista Drive, Lake Buena Vista. raglanroad.com

MUSIC THE ABBEY 100 S. Eola Drive, Orlando. 407-704-6261. abbeyorlando.com Aug 10: Tilian, 6 p.m.

Aug. 29: Why?, 8 p.m.

AMWAY CENTER 400 W. Church St., Orlando. 407-440-7000, 800-745-3000. amwaycenter.com, ticketmaster.com Aug. 9: Jonas Brothers, 7:30 p.m.

Aug. 16: Khalid, 7:30 p.m.

Aug. 24: Backstreet Boys, 8 p.m.

CENTRAL FLORIDA COMMUNITY ARTS CFCArts Black Box Theatre, 250 S.W. Ivanhoe Blvd., Orlando. 407-937-1800. cfcarts.com Aug. 16: The New Works Chorale in Concert, 7:30 p.m.

CENTRAL FLORIDA FOLK Winter Park Public Library, 460 E. New England Ave., Winter Park. 407-679-6426. cffolk.org Aug. 25: Elizabeth Lockhart and Lucky Mud, 2 p.m.

BLUE BAMBOO CENTER FOR THE ARTS 1905 Kentucky Ave., Winter Park. 407-6369951. bluebambooartcenter.com Aug. 1: Marco Bojorquez Band, 8 p.m.

Aug. 7: Bobby Koelble Band, 8 p.m.

Aug. 8: Dave Sheffield Trio, 8 p.m.

Aug. 14: Richard Drexler, 8 p.m.

Aug. 15: Steve Luciano Trio, 8 p.m.

MONTHLY HAPPENINGS AROUND TOWN

FIRST THURSDAYS AT OMA Aug. 1: Mingle with local artists and view their work, enjoy live music and walk through the galleries of the Orlando Museum of Art. Food and drink available for purchase. This month’s theme: “Artistically Yours—Twenty Years of 1st Thursdays.” 6-9 p.m. Orlando Museum of Art, 2416 N. Mills Ave., Orlando. omart.org EATONVILLE CRAFTS & CULTURE MARKET Aug. 4: Experience the history, heritage and culture that is the historic Town of Eatonville with storytellers, performers, reenactments, local merchants and more, the first Sunday of each month. Free. 1-5 p.m. 100 E. Kennedy Blvd., Eatonville. eatonvillechf.com THORNTON PARK 2ND THURSDAY ART AND WINE WALK Aug. 8: Artists display works for sale along the streets and inside local businesses.

Free, but $15 gets you a glass (pay and pickup at Olde Town Brokers) and a map of participating businesses. 6:30-9:30 p.m.

Summerlin Avenue and Washington Street. thorntonparkdistrict.com ART AND MUSIC IN THE PARK Aug. 9: Artwork and live music in the park between Casselberry City Hall and Lake Concord, the second Friday of each month.

Food trucks and other vendors on site as well. 6 p.m. Free. Casselberry City Hall, 95 Triplet Lake Drive, Casselberry. 407-2627700, ext. 1507. casselberry.org MOUNT DORA 2ND FRIDAY ART IN THE ALLEY Aug. 9: Downtown galleries are open to the public while art exhibitors and musicians showcase their original works, handmade goods and acoustic sounds.

Free. Galleries open 6-8 p.m. Sidewalk exhibitions until 9 p.m. 138 E. Fifth Ave., Mount Dora. mountdoracenterforthearts.org 3RD THURSDAY GALLERY HOP & ART WALK Aug. 15: Visitors converge on the core of Orlando’s Downtown Arts District to browse the galleries and nontraditional art venues that spotlight the best of established and emerging Orlando-based artists.

6 p.m. Rogers Kiene Building, 39 S. Magnolia Ave., Orlando. 3rdthu.com EVENING EXCHANGE Aug. 16: Every third Friday, meet at East End Market for interactive workshops and a chance to browse wares from over 30 artisan makers, plus culinary demonstrations, specialty cocktail bars and food specials.

3201 Corrine Drive, Orlando. 321-236-3316. eastendmkt.com

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SCENE ON THE TOWN Aug. 16: Cortez, Clermont & Archard, 8 p.m.

Aug. 18: Ricky Sylvia & Friends featuring The Buzzcatz, 3 p.m.

Aug. 21: Chris Cortez Quartet, 8 p.m.

Aug. 25: Eddie Marshall’s Blue Bamboo Big Band, 3 p.m.

Aug. 28: John DePaola Quintet, 8 p.m.

Aug. 29: Eddie Marshall Trio, 8 p.m.

HARD ROCK LIVE 6050 Universal Blvd., Orlando. 407-351-5483. hardrock.com Aug. 13: Slash featuring Myles Kennedy and The Conspirators, 8 p.m.

Aug. 16: Classic Albums Live—Fleetwood Mac “Rumors,” 8 p.m.

Aug. 17: Gavin DeGraw, 8 p.m.

Aug. 24: Beres Hammond, 9 p.m.

HOUSE OF BLUES Disney Springs West Side, Walt Disney World.

407-934-2583. houseofblues.com Aug. 1: August Burns Red—10 Years of Constellations Tour, 5:30 p.m.

Aug. 2: The Petty Hearts—The National Tom Petty Tribute Show, 7:30 p.m.

Aug. 3: I Prevail—The Trauma Tour, 6:30 p.m.

Aug. 10: The Molly Ringwalds, 7:30 p.m.

Aug. 17: Saved By The 90s, 7:30 p.m.

Aug. 23: Sister Hazel, 7 p.m.

KING CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS 3865 N. Wickham Road, Melbourne. 321-2422219. kingcenter.com Aug. 10: Classic Albums Live—Rolling Stones “Let It Bleed,” 8 p.m.

LIL INDIE’S 1036 N. Mills Ave., Orlando. willspub.org Aug. 11: The Mailboxes, 7 p.m.

PLAZA LIVE ORLANDO 425 N. Bumby Ave., Orlando. 407-228-1220. plazaliveorlando.com Aug. 9: Baroness, 8 p.m.

Aug. 17: Crown The Empire, 6 p.m.

THE SOCIAL ORLANDO 54 N. Orange Ave., Orlando. 407-246-1419. thesocial.org Aug. 1: Zach Deputy, 7 p.m.

Aug. 16: Stephen Kellogg & Tyrone Wells— The Tunes & Tall Tales Tour, 6 p.m.

Aug. 20: Tessa Violet, 7 p.m.

SOUNDBAR ORLANDO 37 W. Pine St., Orlando. 407-456-1391. soundbarorl.com Aug. 3: Ozone Hip Hop Fest, 3 p.m.

Aug. 4: Chasing Jonah with Aisha Badru and Nicholas Roberts, 6 p.m.

Aug. 9: Hi Rez, 6 p.m.

WAYNE DENSCH PERFORMING ARTS CENTER 201 S. Magnolia Ave., Sanford. 407-321-8111. wdpac.com Aug. 10: Get Ready—A Motown Experience, 7:30 p.m.

Aug. 25: Sanford Jazz Ensemble Summer Concert, 3 p.m.

WILL’S PUB 1042 N. Mills Ave., Orlando. willspub.org Aug. 2: Deke Dickerson, The Woolly Bushmen and Little Sheba And The Shamans, 8 p.m.

Aug. 3: Blank 281—Tribute To Blink 182, 8 p.m.

Aug. 9: Sarah Shook, The Disarmers and Matt Woods, 9 p.m.

Aug. 11: Whores, 8 p.m.

CLASSICAL MUSIC OPERA ON PARK University Club of Winter Park, 841 N. Park Ave., Winter Park. operaorlando.org/ opera-on-park Aug. 25: Camille Ortiz, soprano, is joined

by Gabriel Preisser, lyric baritone, 2 p.m.

OPERA ON THE BIG SCREEN Enzian, 1300 S. Orlando Ave., Maitland. 407629-0054. enzian.org Aug. 17: La Forza Del Destino, 11 a.m.

UCF DEPARTMENT OF MUSIC 12488 Centaurus Blvd., Orlando. Visual Arts Building, Rehearsal Hall, Auditorium 116, 407823-2869. performingarts.cah.ucf.edu Aug. 27: Faculty Recital—David Bjella, cello, 7:30 p.m.

Aug. 31: Faculty Recital—Ayako Yonetani, violin, 6 p.m.

WAYNE DENSCH PERFORMING ARTS CENTER 201 S. Magnolia Ave., Sanford. 407-321-8111. wdpac.com Aug. 17: Orlando Contemporary Chamber Orchestra Presents Locals and Legends, 7:30 p.m.

COMEDY BONKERZ COMEDY CLUB Ongoing: Weekly stand-up comedy shows at two Orlando-area locations. Boardwalk Bowl, 10749 E. Colonial Dr., Orlando. Ages 21 and over. Friday at 8 p.m., Saturday 7:30 p.m.

Otters on the River, 4380 Carraway Place, Sanford. Ages 18 and over. Friday-Saturday at 8 p.m. 407-629-2665. bonkerzcomedyproductions.com

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DR. PHILLIPS CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS 445 S. Magnolia Ave., Orlando. 844-513-2014. drphillipscenter.org Aug. 2: Tim Allen, 8 p.m.

Aug. 18: 85 South Show, 7 p.m.

DRAGONFLY STUDIO 129 Aug. 25: Monthly live improvised variety show hosted by local improv troupe, Four First Names. 8 p.m. 129 W. McKey St., Ocoee. 321-662-2311. eventbrite.com KOMBUSTIBLE S’MORES Long-form improv comedy team performs the first Friday of every month. Doors open at 7:30 p.m., show starts at 8 p.m. The Backspace, 1309 Edgewater Drive (in the back), Orlando. facebook.com/kombustiblesmores ORLANDO IMPROV Pointe Orlando, 9101 International Drive Suite 2310, Orlando. 407-480-5233. Ages 21 and over. Wednesday and Thursday at 8 p.m., Friday at 8 and 10:30 p.m., Saturday at 7 and 9:45 p.m., Sunday at 7:30 p.m. 407-480-5233. theimprovorlando.com SAK COMEDY LAB Ongoing: Improvisational comedy shows, competitions, songs and scenes. 29 S. Orange Ave., Orlando. Tuesday-Wednesday times vary; Thursday, Friday and Saturday 7:30 and 9:30 p.m. 407-648-0001. sakcomedylab.com SLEUTHS MYSTERY DINNER THEATRE Ongoing: Audience members solve a crime during the dinner show. Performances nightly.

8267 International Drive, Orlando. 407-3631985. sleuths.com

FILM ENZIAN 1300 S. Orlando Ave., Maitland. 407-6290054. enzian.org Aug. 10: The Man Who Knew Too Much, noon.

Aug. 11: Filmslam, 1 p.m.

Aug. 13: Spongebob Squarepants Movie, 9:30 p.m.

Aug. 25: Lassie Come Home, noon.

Aug. 27: Rushmore, 9:30 p.m.

FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT Old Town Kissimmee, 5770 W. Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy., Kissimmee. myoldtownusa.com Aug. 4: Space Jam, 7 p.m.

Aug. 11: Labyrinth, 7 p.m.

Aug. 18: Spongebob Squarepants Movie, 7 p.m.

Aug. 25: CoCo, 7 p.m.

HARRY P. LEU GARDENS 1920 N. Forest Ave., Orlando. 407-246-2620. leugardens.org Aug. 2: Mission Impossible—Fallout, 8:30 p.m.

POPCORN FLICKS IN THE PARK Central Park, 150 W. Morse Blvd., Winter Park.

407-629-0054. enzian.org Aug. 8: Harry Potter and the Goblet Of Fire, 8 p.m.

WAYNE DENSCH PERFORMING ARTS CENTER 201 S. Magnolia Ave., Sanford. 407-321-8111. wdpac.com Aug. 23: Love Your Shorts Re-Wind, 8 p.m.

LITERARY DIVERSE WORD Aug. 6, 13, 20 & 27: A weekly gathering of spoken-word poetry. 8 p.m. Dandelion Communitea Café, 618 N. Thornton Ave., Orlando, 407-362-1864. dandelioncommunitea.com FLORIDA STATE POETS ASSOCIATION Aug. 15: All local FSPA members are eligible to join. Third Thursday of the month, 6:30 p.m.

Maitland Public Library, 501 S. Maitland Ave., Maitland. floridastatepoetsassociation.org FLORIDA WRITERS ASSOCIATION Aug. 7 & 8: Orlando writers’ group meetings with guest speakers and discussions are the first Wednesday of month, 6:30-8:30 p.m., University Club of Winter Park, 841 N. Park Ave., Winter Park. The Maitland writers’ group meetings are the second Thursday of month, 6:30-8:30 p.m., Maitland Public Library, 501 S. Maitland Ave., Maitland. floridawriters.net, madaboutwords.com NERD NITE Aug. 8: An evening of entertaining, thought-provoking presentations with host Ricardo Williams and guest speakers. Second Thursday of the month. 7:30 p.m. Stardust Video & Coffee, 1842 Winter Park Road, Orlando. 407-623-3393. orlando.nerdnite.com OPEN MIC POETRY Aug. 7, 14, 21 & 28: Open-mic poetry readings 9 p.m. each Wednesday. Austin’s Coffee and Film, 929 W. Fairbanks Ave., Winter Park.

Free. 407-975-3364. austinscoffee.com WRITERS OF CENTRAL FLORIDA OR THEREABOUTS Membership is free and open to writers of all genres with regular monthly meetings for sharing, critiquing and promoting work. facebook.com/ groups/writersofcentralfloridaorthereabouts

Aug. 14: Short Attention Span Storytelling is the second Wednesday of the month.

Free. 7 p.m. Stardust Video & Coffee, 1842 Winter Park Road, Orlando. 407-623-3393.

Aug. 28: Orlando WordLab (OWL) is the fourth Wednesday of the month. Free.

7 p.m. Winter Park Public Library, 3rd floor meeting room, 460 E. New England Ave., Winter Park. 407-623-3300.

THEATER THE ABBEY 100 S. Eola Drive, Orlando. 407-704-6261. abbeyorlando.com The Full Monty Aug. 1-19: Six unemployed steelworkers set out to make some quick cash by becoming a team of male strippers. Monday & Thursday-Saturday 8 p.m., Saturday-Sunday 2 p.m.

CENTRAL FLORIDA COMMUNITY ARTS Multiple Orlando-area locations. 407-9371800. cfcarts.com Twelve Angry Jurors Aug. 1-11: In what seems like an open-andshut murder case, one juror refuses to agree to a guilty verdict. Thursday-Saturday 7:30 p.m., Sunday 3 p.m. Orange County Regional History Center, 65 E. Central Blvd., Orlando.

Into The Woods Aug. 22-23: A modern musical twist on classic fairy tales. Thursday-Friday 7:30 p.m. Northland Church, 530 Dog Track Road, Longwood.

Next To Normal Aug. 30-Sept. 22: The dramatic story of a bipolar woman and her suburban family as they cope with crisis, mental health, and the side effects of staying together as a family. Thursday-Saturday 7:30 p.m., Sunday 3 p.m. CFCArts Black Box Theatre, 250 S.W. Ivanhoe Blvd., Orlando.

DR. PHILLIPS CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS 445 S. Magnolia Ave., Orlando. 844-513-2014. drphillipscenter.org Legally Blonde—The Musical Aug. 2-4: Follow the transformation of Elle Woods as she tackles stereotypes and scandal in pursuit of her dreams. Friday 7 p.m., Saturday 2 & 7 p.m., Sunday 3 p.m.

Bold—The Musical Aug. 8-11: The story of the women who worked as allied secret agents in occupied France during World War II. Thursday-Saturday 8 p.m., Saturday-Sunday 2 p.m.

GARDEN THEATRE 160 W. Plant St., Winter Garden. 407-8774736. gardentheatre.org

WORLD OF GOOD AUGUST FUNDRAISERS AUG. 8-10 HEARTS OF REALITY, benefits Give Kids the World Village. Celebration Town Center, Celebration. celebrationtowncenter.com

AUG. 9-11 MEGAPLEX 2019, benefits The C.A.R.E. Foundation of Apopka, which rescues local wildlife and abused pets. Caribe Royale hotel, Orlando. megaplexcon.org

AUG. 17 CELEBRATION OF RUNNING, benefits the Track Shack Youth Foundation and the Orlando Science Center. Orlando Cultural Park, Orlando. trackshack.com

AUG. 17-18 ANNUAL HARVEST GRAPE STOMP, benefits the Alzheimer’s Family Organization. Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards, Clermont. lakeridgewinery.com

AUG. 24 10 YEAR CELEBRATION GALA, benefits NextStep Orlando, a paralysis recovery and fitness center. Heathrow Country Club, Heathrow.

407-571-9974 or email liza@nextsteporlando.org

COMING UP… SEPT. 14 TASTE OF CENTRAL FLORIDA, benefits the children’s feeding programs of Coalition for the Homeless of Central Florida and Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida. Orlando World Center Marriott, Orlando. centralfloridataste.org/taste

SEPT. 28 CF CLIMB, benefits the Central Florida Chapter

of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. For speed or endurance, climb 28 flights of stairs at the Orlando World Center Marriott, Orlando. fightcf.cff.org

Ragtime The Musical Aug. 23-Sept. 15: In New York City at the dawn of a new century, a stifled upper-class wife, a determined Jewish immigrant, and a daring young Harlem musician are brought together by the promise of the future. Thursday-Saturday 7:30 p.m., Saturday-Sunday 2 p.m.

MAD COW THEATRE 54 W. Church St., Orlando. 407-297-8788. madcowtheatre.com

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SCENE ON THE TOWN Heartbreak House Aug. 9-Sept. 1: A comedic portrayal of the deceptions and meaningless pursuits of England’s ruling class on the eve of World War I. Monday & Thursday-Saturday 7:30 p.m., Sunday 2:30 p.m., Additional matinee performance Saturday, August 17 at 2:30 p.m.

MOONLIGHT PLAYERS THEATER 735 W. Minneola Ave., Clermont. 352-2435875. moonlightplayers.com All Shook Up Through Aug. 4: The music of Elvis comes alive in this tale inspired by Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night. Friday-Saturday 8 p.m., Sunday 2:30 p.m.

OSCEOLA ARTS 2411 E. Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway, Kissimmee. 407-846-6257. osceolaarts.org Newsies Through Aug. 4: Inspired by the real-life Newsboys Strike of 1899, this musical tells the tale of a band of young “newsies” and their charismatic leader, Jack Kelly.

Friday-Saturday 7:30 p.m., Sunday 2:30 p.m.

SONNENTAG THEATRE AT THE ICE HOUSE 1100 N. Unser St., Mount Dora. 352-383-4616. icehousetheatre.com The Drowsy Chaperone Through Aug. 4: A spoof of musical comedies from the 1920s. Thursday 7:30 p.m., Friday 8 p.m., Saturday-Sunday 2 p.m.

WAYNE DENSCH PERFORMING ARTS CENTER 201 S. Magnolia Ave., Sanford. 407-321-8111. wdpac.com Necessary Secrets Aug. 24: A premier stage play about the secrets that sometimes must be kept. 7 p.m.

WINTER PARK PLAYHOUSE 711 N. Orange Ave., Suite C, Winter Park. 407645-0145. winterparkplayhouse.org How To Marry A Divorced Man Aug. 2-25: Layla Diamond’s mother advises her to settle down with a divorced man and from there, her miscalculations turn her marital quest into a comedic farce. Thursday-Saturday 2 & 7:30 p.m., Sunday 2 p.m.

MUSEUMS ALBIN POLASEK MUSEUM AND SCULPTURE GARDENS 633 Osceola Ave., Winter Park. 407-647-6294.

Tuesday-Saturday 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Sunday 1-4 p.m. polasek.org Czech-born American sculptor Albin Polasek’s onetime Winter Park home and studio is now a museum with an art collection focused on

American representational sculpture, with more than 200 of Polasek’s works inside and out. The former residence is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Precious Pollinators Through Aug. 25: An artistic celebration of bees and colorful native flowers and plants—by members of the Central Florida Watercolor Society—and intended to raise awareness about the decline of bees and other pollinators in North America.

Tours of the Capen Ongoing: Step inside the restored Capen-Showalter House, built in 1885 but rescued from destruction and floated across Lake Osceola to its current home on the Polasek grounds. Thirty-minute tours are offered Wednesdays at 11:30 a.m. and Sundays at 2:30 p.m.

ART AND HISTORY MUSEUMS—MAITLAND 221 W. Packwood Ave., 231 W. Packwood Ave. and 820 Lake Lily Drive, Maitland. 407-5392181. Thursday-Sunday 11 a.m.-4 p.m. artandhistory.org A collection of museums encompassing the Maitland Art Center, Maitland Historical Museum, Telephone Museum, Waterhouse Residence Museum and Carpentry Shop Museum. Maitland Art Center, Tuesday-Sunday 11 a.m.-4 p.m.; all others Thursday-Sunday noon-4 p.m. Closed on major holidays. artandhistory.org Etched In Time Through Sept. 8: Explore the history of 19th and 20th century etchings used in print as a way to share images long before the age of Instagram.

Pressed Editions—Experimental Contemporary Prints Through Sept. 8: Works by selected innovative individual printmakers based in Central Florida and by UCF’s Flying Horse Editions.

Discover André Smith Ongoing: Smith created an art colony in 1937 in Maitland, originally called The Research Studio. During his 21-year tenure at the art center, Smith developed friendships with author/folklorist Zora Neale Hurston, arts patron Mary Curtis Bok and stage actress Annie Russell, while also creating a location for invited artists to develop their work. Maitland Art Center.

The Research Studio Ongoing: Maitland Art Center was founded as an art colony in 1937 by visionary American artist and architect, André Smith. The center’s most significant permanent collection is the facility itself; the Research Studio, as it was originally called, is one of the few surviving examples of Mayan Revival architecture in the Southeastern United States.

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CASA FELIZ HISTORIC HOME MUSEUM 656 N. Park Ave., Winter Park. 407-628-8200. casafeliz.us Ongoing: This restored Spanish farmhouse-style home, designed by acclaimed architect James Gamble Rogers II, was saved from the wrecker’s ball and now serves as a community center and museum. Open houses hosted by trained docents take place every Tuesday and Thursday from 10 a.m. to noon, and live music is featured in the parlor on Sundays from noon to 3 p.m. Free.

CORNELL FINE ARTS MUSEUM Rollins College campus, 1000 Holt Ave., Winter Park. 407-646-2526. Tuesday-Friday 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Saturday-Sunday noon-5 p.m. rollins.edu/cfam Mexican Modernity—20th Century Paintings from the Zapanta Collection Through Sept. 8: A highlight of significant modern artists representing dynamic moments and movements in the evolution of Mexican art.

Mediated Reality—Cityscapes

by Photorealists Through Sept. 8: Urban scenes transformed from paintings to print showcasing the perspectives of 10 artists.

Shifting Perspectives—Art by the Students of the Art Time Outreach Program Through Sept. 8: The public debut and celebration of works created by the students who participated in the program.

The Place as Metaphor— Collection Conversations Through Sept. 8: A selection of collection favorites—works rarely on view—and new acquisitions intended to build conversations around ways of seeing.

Education Gallery Ongoing: Learners of all ages can discover the world of art through a dress-up station where children can become characters from works in the museum’s permanent collection. There’s also a reading nook, a children’s audio guide and a new mini museum where visitors become the museum curator by moving works around the walls. Plus, families who purchase the children’s book Stories and Studios—Conversations and Projects become members of the Art Adventure Club.

Ongoing: Free weekend tours take place at 1 p.m. each Saturday at the campus facility and 1 p.m. each Sunday at the nearby Alfond Inn, which displays dozens of works from the museum’s Alfond Collection of Contemporary Art. Happy Hour art tours of the Alfond Collection are also conducted the first Wednesday of each month at 5:30 p.m. at The Alfond Inn.

DALI MUSEUM 1 Dali Blvd., St. Petersburg. 727-823-3767. thedali.org Bronzes From The Vault Through Nov. 2: A collection of cast bronzes created by Salvador Dali in the 1970s for the publisher Isidro Clot.

Visual Magic—Dali’s Masterworks in Augmented Reality Through Nov. 3: Augmented reality (AR) technology is used to engage visitors while highlighting the popular Masterworks collection.

Before Dali—Goya—Visions & Inventions Through Nov. 3: Two alternating suites of first-edition prints published in Goya’s lifetime alongside three significant paintings representing unique themes of the artists’ works.

HANNIBAL SQUARE HERITAGE CENTER 642 W. New England Ave., Winter Park. 407539-2680. Tuesday-Thursday noon-4 p.m., Friday noon-5 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.-2 p.m. hannibalsquareheritagecenter.org The Heritage Collection Ongoing: Photographs and oral histories of west Winter Park.

The Hannibal Square Timeline Ongoing: Documents the significant local and national events in African-American history since the Emancipation Proclamation.

HOLOCAUST MEMORIAL RESOURCE AND EDUCATION CENTER OF FLORIDA 851 N. Maitland Ave., Maitland. 407-628-0555.

Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Friday 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Sunday 1-4 p.m. Free. Donations accepted. holocaustedu.org Tribute to the Holocaust Ongoing: This memorial exhibit presents an overview of the Holocaust through artifacts, videos, text, photographs and artwork.

THE JAMES MUSEUM OF WESTERN AND WILDLIFE ART 150 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. MondaySunday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 727-892-4200. thejamesmuseum.org Environmental Impact II Aug. 24-Dec. 1: Paintings and sculptures intended to bring public awareness to environmental issues and the unintentional consequences of human interaction with nature.

Permanent Collection Ongoing: Approximately 400 works of art selected from over 3,000 pieces acquired

by Tom and Mary James over their 50 years of art collecting. Pieces showcase American’s Early West, native life, native artists, the frontier, wildlife and the New West.

MENNELLO MUSEUM OF AMERICAN ART 900 E. Princeton St., Orlando. 407-246-4278.

Tuesday-Saturday 10:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Sunday noon-4:30 p.m. mennellomuseum.com Immersion into Compounded Time and the Paintings of Firelei Báez Through Sept. 1: Large-scale and intricate portraits of influential individuals and mythical goddesses from Afro-Caribbean history.

Ongoing: Permanent collection of paintings by Earl Cunningham (18931977) and other American artists.

MORSE MUSEUM OF AMERICAN ART 445 N. Park Ave., Winter Park. 407-645-5311.

Tuesday-Saturday 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m., Sunday 1-4 p.m. morsemuseum.org Earth into Art—The Flowering of American Art Poetry Through Sept. 27, 2020: Examine the works of American Art Pottery (1876 to 1914), the first truly American art to achieve widespread acclaim both domestically and abroad.

Vignette—Osceola Lodge, Charles Hosmer Morse’s Arts and Crafts Study Through Jan. 31, 2021: A display of objects from Morse’s study at the Osceola Lodge–his home on Lake Osceola.

Iridescence in Glass and Pottery—A Celebration Ongoing: The replication of iridescence made popular by Louis Comfort Tiffany and others in the 19th century is celebrated with diverse examples.

Louis Comfort Tiffany’s Life and Art Ongoing: Through art objects, archival documents and artifacts, this exhibition examines Tiffany’s astonishingly diverse work in the decorative arts—what he called his “quest for beauty”—over the course of his lifetime.

Art Nouveau in Europe and America from the Morse Collection Ongoing: An installation of works that represent the bold, international decorative-arts style known as Art Nouveau, which peaked from about 1890 to 1910.

The exhibition, drawn from the Morse collection, features furniture, jewelry, ceramics, and art glass from European and American artists and designers.

MUSEUM OF ART DELAND 600 N. Woodland Blvd., DeLand. 386-7344371; downtown satellite location, 100 N. Woodland Blvd., DeLand. 386-279-7534.

Thursday-Saturday 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Sunday.

1-4 p.m. moartdeland.org Selections from the Permanent Collection Ongoing: On display is the Collector’s Choice—Samuel Blatt Collection, Purvis Young—Art of the Street, and the Linda Pinto Collection.

Legendary Florida—The Florida History Paintings of Jackson Walker Ongoing: Paintings of Florida’s eventful past are on permanent exhibit at the Volusia County Historic Courthouse, 120 W. Indiana Ave., DeLand.

ORANGE COUNTY REGIONAL HISTORY CENTER 65 E. Central Blvd., Orlando. 407-836-8500.

Monday-Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday noon-5 p.m. thehistorycenter.org Love Speaks—Artistic Responses to the Pulse Nightclub Tragedy Through Sept. 22: A remembrance exhibition sharing artwork created across the nation—from paintings to basketry to graphic novels—paying tribute to those who were taken and also to inspire a better tomorrow for those who remain.

Ongoing: Explore multiple floors of exhibits taking you through the history of Orange county from the first people to the first contact with the Spanish through 100 years of tourism all the way to the present-day theme-park era.

ORLANDO MUSEUM OF ART 2416 N. Mills Ave., Orlando. 407-896-4231.

Tuesday-Friday 10 a.m.-4 p.m., SaturdaySunday noon-4 p.m. omart.org Florida Prize in Contemporary Art Through Aug. 18: Invitational and award exhibition featuring 10 of Florida’s most progressive and exciting artists.

Our Voice—Celebrating the Coretta Scott King Illustrator Awards Aug. 2-Oct. 27: Features 101 award and honor-winning titles recognized as outstanding works by African American authors and illustrators.

Contemporary American Graphics Collection Ongoing: Includes more than 150 original signed and numbered lithographs, etchings, silk-screen prints and woodcuts by America’s foremost artists.

Contemporary Art Collection Ongoing: Outstanding works of art from 1945 representing such artists as Jennifer Bartlett, Nick Cave, Lesley Dill, Jane Hammond and James Casebere. The exhibit also includes an extensive collection of prints from the 1960s to present.

ORLANDO SCIENCE CENTER 777 E. Princeton St., Orlando. 407-514-2000.

Sunday-Tuesday 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Thursday 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.-9 p.m. osc.org Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles— Secrets of the Sewer Through Sept. 3: Work your way through puzzles, mazes and obstacles that reveal the secrets of the sewer.

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SCENE ON THE TOWN Ongoing: From the natural world to high tech simulation, from dinosaurs to the planets in our universe, hands-on activities throughout the center may inspire a budding scientist and make learning fun for all ages.

WINTER PARK HISTORY MUSEUM 200 W. New England Ave., Winter Park.

407-647-2330. Tuesday-Friday 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. wphistory.org Wish You Were Here—The Hotels and Motels of Winter Park Through June 2020: From the lavish luxury hotels of the late 1800s to roadside family motels, tourist courts and the boarding houses used by the workers who built Winter Park, this exhibit highlights all the hotels and motels that played a part in creating the town of today.

WINTER GARDEN HERITAGE MUSEUM 1 N. Main St., Winter Garden. 407-656-3244.

Daily 1-5 p.m. wghf.org Ongoing: Housed in the city’s 1918 Atlantic Coast Line railroad depot, the museum features a large collection of local citrus labels, a citrus packing-house replica, and an audio kiosk detailing the area’s citrus history, plus Native American artifacts and photographs of the area dating back to the days of pioneer settlements. A History Research and Education Center next door holds the Winter Garden Heritage Foundation’s collection of west Orange County documents, research material, and additional photographs and artifacts.

ZORA NEALE HURSTON NATIONAL MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS 227 E. Kennedy Blvd., Eatonville. 407-6473307. Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Saturday 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Donations accepted. zoranealehurstonmuseum.com Ongoing: The museum provides a place in the heart of the community where the public can view the works of artists of African descent.

GALLERIES ANITA S. WOOTEN GALLERY Valencia College, East Campus, 701 N. Econlockhatchee Trail, Orlando. Monday-Friday from 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. valenciacollege.edu/arts Graphic Design Faculty Exhibition Through Aug. 2: A display of works created by Valencia faculty.

ARTS ON DOUGLAS 123 Douglas St., New Smyrna Beach. 386-4231753. Tuesday-Friday 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday 11 a.m.-3 p.m. artsondouglas.net

Endless Summer—A Group Exhibition Aug. 3-31: Opening reception is in the feature gallery on Aug. 3 from 4-7 p.m.

ATLANTIC CENTER FOR THE ARTS 1414 Art Center Ave., New Smyrna Beach.

386-427-6975. Tuesday-Friday 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.-2 p.m. atlanticcenterforthearts.org 30th Annual University Student Exhibition Through Aug. 10: The Atlantic Center honors the work produced by state university art students.

THE BRONZE KINGDOM Fashion Square Mall, 3201 E. Colonial Drive, Orlando. 407-203-8864. bronzekingdom.com Ongoing: This gallery/museum features a collection of rare African bronze, beaded and wooden sculptures from all over the continent, including palatial pieces from Benin and Bamum tribal kingdoms, some dating back to early 1600s.

CITYARTS FACTORY Rogers-Kiene Building, 39 S. Magnolia Ave., Orlando. 407-317-8367. Tuesday-Saturday 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Free. orlandoslice.com/page/now-on-exhibit Ongoing: A collection of galleries showcasing a variety of artworks.

CREALDÉ SCHOOL OF ART Two locations: Alice & William Jenkins Gallery, 600 St. Andrews Blvd., Winter Park. 407671-1886. crealde.org; and Hannibal Square Heritage Center, 642 W. New England Blvd., Winter Park. 407-539-2680. hannibalsquareheritagecenter.org 38th Annual Juried Student Exhibition Through Aug. 31: Student work in painting, drawing, photography, ceramics, sculpture, jewelry and fiber arts selected by program managers and awarded by a guest juror. Alice and William Jenkins Gallery at Crealdé School of Art. The Sage Project Phase II—Hannibal Square Elders Tell Their Stories Through Aug. 31: 17 portraits and living histories of residents in their 80s and 90s who are natives or longtime residents of the African American west side Winter Park Community.

Hannibal Square Heritage Center Gallery.

Storytellers XVII—West of the East Coast Tracks—New Smyrna Teens Give Us Insight Into Their Changing World Through Sep. 1: Teens document their historic African-American community in west New Smyrna Beach through photographs.

Hannibal Square Heritage Center Gallery.

Ray Azcuy—Pattern, Abstraction, Design Through Aug. 16: Opening reception is in the alt_space gallery on Aug. 3 from 4-7 p.m.

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HAND ART CENTER Stetson University, 139 E. Michigan Ave., DeLand. Monday-Wednesday & Friday 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Thursday 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Saturday noon-4 p.m. 386-822-7271. www2.stetson.edu/hand-art-center Rick Shaefer—The Refugee Trilogy Aug. 16-Oct. 10: A display of charcoal drawings representing the artist’s passionate and cerebral response to the current Syrian refugee crisis. Opening reception is on Aug. 23 from 6-8 p.m.

HARRY P. LEU GARDENS 1920 N. Forest Ave., Orlando. 407-246-2620.

Open daily 9 a.m.-5 p.m. leugardens.org Enchanted Fairy Doors Through Sept. 30: Whimsical exhibit featuring 20 one-of-a-kind fairy doors to inspire an imaginative world of mythical forests and secret gardens.

Ongoing: On 50 acres of land, the gardens provide an oasis within The City Beautiful where guests can discover palms, cycads, flowering trees, azaleas, vines, bromeliads, roses and more, as well as explore the historical home of Harry P. Leu and his wife, Mary Jane.

JEANINE TAYLOR FOLK ART GALLERY 211 E. 1st St., Sanford. 407-323-2774. Tuesday-Saturday 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Sunday noon5 p.m. jtfolkart.com Lagniappe—Art Of Andre And Pat Juneau Aug. 17-Sept. 15: Brightly colored metal furniture and sculptures created by two Louisiana artists.

MOUNT DORA CENTER FOR THE ARTS 138 E. Fifth Ave., Mount Dora. 352-383-0880.

Monday-Friday 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday-Sunday noon-4 p.m. mountdoracenterforthearts.org The Nature Of Things—An Abstract Interpretation Exhibit Aug. 2-Sept. 8: Featuring works by abstract painter Laura Varich and largescale sculptor Benjamin Peterson. Opening reception is on Aug. 9 from 6-8 p.m.

TERRACE GALLERY AT ORLANDO CITY HALL 400 S. Orange Ave., Orlando. 407-246-4279.

Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-9 p.m., Saturday-Sunday noon-5 p.m. cityoforlando.net Identity Through Aug. 9: Three UCF graduate students exhibit works exploring identity through their personal artistic expression.

Ongoing: On display is a portion of The City’s permanent collection of paintings, sculptures, photographs, tapestries and mixed media.

SPORTS CAMPING WORLD KICKOFF FLORIDA VS. MIAMI Camping World Stadium, 1 Citrus Bowl Place, Orlando. 407-423-2476. floridacitrussports.com, campingworldstadium.com Aug. 24: The Florida Gators and Miami Hurricanes face off to open their 2019 football season. 7 p.m.

Stay Connected To Your Community!

Check out this event and other opportunities to stay connected to your community in Orlando magazine’s On the Town, World of Good and orlandomagazine.com!

FLORIDA FIRE FROGS Osceola County Stadium, 631 Heritage Park Way, Kissimmee. 321-697-3156. floridafirefrogs.com Aug. 1: vs. Clearwater, noon.

Aug. 8: vs. Lakeland, noon.

Aug. 9: vs. Lakeland, 6 p.m.

Aug. 10: vs. Lakeland, 6 p.m.

Aug. 11: vs. Lakeland, noon.

Aug. 12: vs. Bradenton, 6 p.m.

Aug. 13: vs. Bradenton, 6 p.m.

Aug. 14: vs. Bradenton, 6 p.m.

Aug. 15: vs. Bradenton, noon.

Aug. 20: vs. Tampa, 6 p.m.

Aug. 21: vs. Tampa, 6 p.m.

Aug. 22: vs. Tampa, noon.

Aug. 23: vs. Dunedin, 6 p.m.

Aug. 24: vs. Dunedin, 6 p.m.

Aug. 25: vs. Dunedin, noon.

— PRESENTS —

Special Olympics Florida Champions’ Gala Presented by Publix

ORLANDO CITY SOCCER LIONS Exploria Stadium, 665 W. Church St., Orlando. orlandocitysc.com Aug. 3: vs. FC Dallas, 7:30 p.m.

Aug. 14: vs. Sporting Kansas City, 7:30 p.m.

Aug. 23: vs. Atlanta United FC, 8 p.m.

ORLANDO CITY SOCCER PRIDE Exploria Stadium, 665 W. Church St., Orlando. orlandocitysc.com Aug. 10: vs. Houston, 7:30 p.m.

Aug. 17: vs. Utah, 7:30 p.m.

Aug. 31: vs. Washington, 7:30 p.m.

ONLINE CALENDAR: Be sure to check out our online calendar at orlandomagazine.com.

Saturday, September 14, 2019

Waldorf Astoria Orlando, 14200 Bonnet Creek Resort Ln., Orlando, Florida 32821

6:00 PM Start of the event One of the most inspiring and exclusive fundraising events in Central Florida, The Champions’ Gala features a cocktail reception, silent/live auction, three-course dinner and live entertainment. Join us for an evening of fun, networking and inspiration as athletes and coaches across the state are celebrated for their achievements, all while raising critical funds for the more than 54,000 children and adults with intellectual disabilities that Special Olympics Florida serves.

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SCENE RSVP

Orlando Magazine’s Dining Awards

The magazine presented its annual awards for culinary excellence during festivities at Luke’s Kitchen and Bar, with 20 picks from critic Joseph Hayes and readers’ choices in 57 categories. Event sponsors were FreshPoint, Luke’s, Oviedo Florist and AVmedia.

th Ja Brian Kerney, wi

net and and No

rman Van Aken

(Norman’s)

Melissa Crossman (Fresh Point); Chelsie and Jamie Savage (Proper & Wild) and their son

Ted Zerfas, Quinton Sluka, Camila Castillo, Wade McLamb (deep blu seafood grille)

Jason Carlucci, Kristy Carlucci (Hall of Fame, The Osprey Tavern), Meghan and Steve Conkel

SPONSORED BY

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Preston Fletcher, Sam Collins, Kelly Kerney, Logan Anderson, Sami Carroll, Melissa Crossman, Steve Carney (FreshPoint) ROBERTO GONZALEZ

Joseph Creech (Hunger Street Tacos), with Monica, John and Jared Rivers (4 Rivers Smokehouse)

AJ Campofiore, Chico Mendonça (Bem Bom on Corrine), Kelly Kerney (FreshPoint)

Frank Galeano (Tapa Toro) and

Alex Attart (Taverna Opa)

Carl Bronislawski, Fred Rhode (Hall of Fame, Hemingway’s), Eduard Propst

ROBERTO GONZALEZ

The staff at Luke’s Kitchen and Bar created exquisite food and cocktails.

Carol Holladay, Lauren Durchslag (The Tap Room at Dubsdread)

Tim and Stefanie Majoras (Flying Fish)

Kirt and Maxine Earhart (Hall of Fame, Maxine’s on Shine)

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Real Estate Reception The Hot 100 and Real Estate All Stars, featured in Orlando magazine’s June issue, joined Park Square Homes, Windermere Prep, and Principal Law Firm for an evening reception at Sawgrass Plantation, a local Park Square community.

Richie Fortunato, Kelli

Belfatto, Carley Singer , Denise Rapp (Park Squ

are Homes)

Jenny Wemert, Matt Gordon

Summer Simmons (Windermere Preparatory School)

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Olivia Morehouse of Fig & Flour Bakery

Kristin Merrick, Rosemary Bowers

ROBERTO GONZALEZ

Shivon Patel, Amit Patel (Principal Law Firm)

I

I LOVE TO travel. Not only is it the destina-

tion that excites me but also the possibilities and the planning as I pore over articles, research reviews and daydream of faraway places. Our desire to transport ourselves is one reason my husband and I especially love Epcot. We can sip moscato in Italy, watch belly dancers in Morocco, and shop in Japan, all in a date night.

Bryan and I have been lucky to visit many wonderful places. We’ve seen the sunrise on the Atlantic in Amelia Island and the sunset on the Gulf in St. Pete Beach. We’ve stood atop a mountain two miles high in Breckenridge and strolled below-sea-level streets in New Orleans. We’ve had Christmas dinner in Key West, seen a rainbow over Rio de Janeiro on Good Friday, and spent our 10th wedding anniversary crossing London’s bridges. I’ve covered my shoulders at the Vatican and covered my head at the Blue Mosque in Istanbul. We’ve tasted the world’s best feta in Santorini and sipped limoncello as bright as the sun in Capri.

But these experiences were not gained easily; therefore we do not take them for granted. We’ve suffered through jet lag,

airport food and altitude sickness. We’ve endured weather delays, corny motorcoach tours and overpriced tourist traps. A rare strand of E. coli landed Bryan in the hospital on our return from Brazil to Florida.

On a flight home from New Zealand, a bottle of red wine burst in our suitcase, leaving a bloodlike trail through LAX as we rushed to our gate. We missed our flight.

Twelve excruciating hours later, we finally lugged our stained luggage onto the red-eye.

On our way to the Rose Bowl, so many flights were overbooked out of Atlanta, we thought we’d miss the national championship game. We got in such an intense argument, I still think a marriage counseling kiosk would do well next to a Brookstone.

(We made it in time for kickoff and are still happily married.)

Traveling makes us tired, hungry, and homesick—if we’re not careful, it can bring out our very worst. I’ve learned to expect the unexpected and not let bad moments ruin our entire trip.

Traveling brings out our very best, too.

When we drove that tiny car on the left side of the road in Australia and navigated the

EMAIL LAURA AT FEEDBACK@ORLANDOMAGAZINE.COM AND READ MORE OF HER COLUMNS AT ORLANDOMAGAZINE.COM 104 | ORLANDOMAGAZINE.COM | AUGUST 2019

Volume 73, Number 10, Orlando® (USPS 007-215) (ISSN 1059-3624) is published monthly by Morris Visitor Publications, 801 N. Magnolia Avenue, Ste. 201, Orlando, FL 32803. For subscriptions, call 1-800-243-0609 or visit our website at www.orlandomagazine.com. Copyright 2019 by Morris Communications. All rights reserved. Orlando® and CENTRAL FLORIDA® are federally registered trademarks.

THE ABCs of Education™, CENTRAL FLORIDA HOME & GARDEN™, DISCOVER ORLANDO™, INSIDE ORLANDO™, LIVING IN ORLANDO™, ORLANDO HOME DESIGN™, and ORLANDO HOME & GARDEN™ are state registered trademarks. Reproduction or use in whole or in part of the contents of this magazine or of the trademarks of Morris Visitor Publications without written permission of the publisher is prohibited.

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Endless Journeys

crowded subway in Rome, we became more confident, more capable to take on the world. Making that detour in Maine made us late for our dinner plans, but without spontaneity, I’d never have seen that spectacular rocky coast.

Experiencing new places together bonds us closer as a family. When our sons were toddlers, we took them on the short flight from Orlando to Puerto Rico. They marveled at everything—the cab ride, the talking parrots, picking up coconuts half their body weight and pretending to fight pirates in the waterfront fort. Everywhere we went, the locals oohed and aahed over their bright blue eyes and William’s white-blond hair.

Traveling reveals our differences as well as our sameness. We recently hosted four 12-year-olds from Martinique for a swim party. They were amazed at the size of our American houses and cars—and the fact that each household not only had a personal vehicle but one for each driver! Their reactions were eye-opening for my children as well, realizing not everyone has what we have. While my sons spoke only English and they only French, the kids splashed and squealed in a universal language. Despite our backgrounds, we are more alike than we think.

On a tour of Sydney Harbor with predominantly Chinese tourists, Bryan and I felt slightly out of place. But outside on the chilly deck, a father wrapped his jacket around his daughter, just as my dad would have done for me. In each country I’ve visited, I’ve witnessed frustrated and exhausted mothers, unable to quiet their child’s screams. “I understand,” I try telling them with my eyes.

Last year on a trip to Rome, I visited the 2,000-year-old Pantheon. Around the room, visitors stood in segregated clumps speaking their various languages. Then suddenly, it started raining. Everyone rushed to the center, where the rain streamed through the oculus 140 feet down to the marble floor.

A little girl lifted her head to feel the rain on her face, her joy inviting the rest of us to join in. We reached out our hands to catch the raindrops, our eyes looking toward the heavens as the dome’s creators intended.

This simple childlike act connected us across our country’s boundaries and language barriers. Among strangers 5,000 miles from home, I felt profoundly close to history and humanity.

DAVID VALLEJO

EXTRA PULP LAURA ANDERS LEE

FIND ORLANDO’S HIDDEN GEMS The arts, dining, travel, entertainment, style, people and trends—if it’s part of Orlando’s lifestyle, you’ll find it covered in Orlando magazine.

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