A few spots to seek out ‘lucky’ foods
COMMENTARY As a new year approaches, I think we’re all hoping for a prosperous and happy 2018. How about influencing your fortune with some good food? Even if you don’t believe in these New Year’s traditions, you’ll at least have a full belly.
Not all of these restaurants will be open on New Year’s Eve or New Year’s Day — but you can always head over in the days leading up to or after the holiday for some good fortune.
Southern tradition holds that including black-eyed peas in your first meal of the new year will bring luck and prosperity. When the peas are cooked with a dime or a penny, the person who finds the coin will have some extra luck. So head on over to soul-food favorite Nikki’s Place for the fried pork chop ($12.95) and a side of black-eyed peas. Consider adding collard greens as another lucky side dish.
742 Carter St., Orlando; 407-425-5301; nikkisplace.net
Scoop up some collard greens ($9.95) with injera (a type of flatbread) at Nile Ethiopian Cuisine. The greens represent paper money, making them symbolic of prosperity to come. I would splurge with one of Nile’s specials for two, which come with a variety of dishes, including collards. The specials include two options for meat-eaters and one for vegetarians.
7048 International Drive, Orlando; 407-354-0026; nile07.com
Lentils and beans look like money — think coins — and are another symbol of luck and good fortune. The tradition stems primarily from Italy and Brazil, but my suggestion is to head to Woodlands for Indian cuisine. Lentils come in many forms at this eatery — from rice-based dishes to dumplings. For some extra luck, I like the vadas ($5.99), doughnutshaped fried lentil snacks, for their additional coinlike shape. Bonus: Woodlands is a vegetarian restaurant, so I would like to think you’ll start off the new year with some extra good luck.
6040 S. Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando; 407-854-3330; woodlands usa.com
Pigs represent prosperity, and their ability to “root forward” makes them a dish ideal for someone hoping to move forward in their career, love life or other aspects in the new year. The District’s hefty pork chop ($22) keeps it classic with a mix of fig, apple and onion jam crusted on the top, playing with sweet and savory flavors. The chop sat on top of broccoli rabe and creamy mashed potatoes.
112 W. Second St., Sanford; 407-330-2730; districtsanford.com