The best of Winter Park: A world away from Disney
“When you think of dining in Orlando, you might envision cartoonish foods”—because the city’s theme parks do specialize in over-the-top dishes, said Kelsey Glennon in Southern Living. But Greater Orlando welcomes 74 million visitors a year, and it’s “taking its rightful place in the global culinary conversation,” not far behind Miami. For the greatest concentration of top dining options, turn to Winter Park, an upscale neighboring city and home to these three standouts. Soseki Modern Omakase A recipient of a Michelin star for the past two years, this unique omakase in Winter Park delivers an “indulgent, immersive experience” while showcasing the best of Central Florida. Chef-owner Michael Collantes builds his menu almost entirely from locally sourced ingredients. Nigiri is enhanced by pairings provided by beverage director Benjamin Coutts, who recently won a Michelin sommelier award. 955 W. Fairbanks Ave. AVA MediterrAegean Located on a cobblestone street that “wouldn’t be out of place in a European village,” this limewashed Orlando restaurant specializes in Adriatic cuisine that feels right at home in Central Florida. “If you’re with a group, order the salt-crusted fresh fish of the day,” and people-watch from one of the outdoor tables. Flying solo? “See if you can shoulder up to a member of the MM Club, AVA’s members-only speakeasy.” 290 S. Park Ave. The Ravenous Pig Husband-and-wife chefs James and Julie Petrakis were among the first to bring farm-to-table to Central Florida. Their excellent gastropub, known to locals as “the Pig,” “marries Southern comfort with classic French-casual.” The menu changes seasonally, but constants include such “well-loved classics” as the rock-shrimp tacos. 565 W. Fairbanks Ave.