Firefly’s comfort food, beer shine
Firefly Kitchen and Bar has added Southern classics and a few comfort-food favorites to an ample beer menu reminiscent of the space’s previous tenant, Taps Bar and Restaurant.
While the Southern hospitality was shining, Firefly’s spread had a few misses.
What I would try a second time
To start off our Southern feast, we went with the hush puppies ($9). The dense fritters were perfectly crisp on the outside and pillowy on the inside. The subtly sweet pups were made even better with some spice thanks to the accompanying red pepper jalapeno dipping sauce.
What I didn’t like
I had to dive through the ocean of lukewarm broth to find some chunks of meat and dough in my chicken and dumplings ($9).
What I would put on Instagram
The restaurant itself is beautiful, with mason-jar lights hanging overhead. Grab a drink and get to posing with that magical backdrop.
Other eats
Firefly cooks up some interesting burger combinations — most of which I wasn’t bold enough to try (I don’t know if I’ll ever be ready for peanut butter on my burger).
I went with the cracker jack ($14) instead — a peppercorn-crusted burger topped with banana peppers and Monterey jack cheese. While the tart-sweet of the peppers made for a
Firefly Kitchen and Bar
Where: 480 Orlando Ave N. in Winter Park When: 11:30 a.m.-11 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 11:30 a.m.-midnight Friday-Saturday; 10 a.m.-11 p.m. Sunday Cost: $9-$22 Beverages: Beer, wine, cocktails Wine by the glass: Yes Attire: Casual Extras: Indoor and outdoor seating; indoor bar, happy hour, brunch Noise level: Low Wheelchair access: Good Credit: Visa, American Express, Mastercard and Discover Call: 407-677-5000 Online: fireflywinterpark.com delicious topping, the patty itself was oversalted and overcooked for my taste.
Despite the slightly overcooked coating on the chicken fried chicken ($16), the meat inside was tender and juicy. The gravy itself was peppery and smooth. A compact cylinder of mashed potatoes and crunchy corn-on-the-cob accompanied the chicken.
Spongy moonshine cake ($7) reminded me of a rum cake with its moisture and texture.
How I was treated
We didn’t want for anything from our friendly server. Our meal was delivered in a timely manner.
My next visit
Brunch-time may find me back at Firefly with Southern classics such as biscuits and gravy.
For bar-hoppers
Firefly sports a hefty list of craft brews, reminiscent of its days as Taps. Wine and cocktail options are available as well.
The restaurant offers a generous happy hour with several $5 appetizers along with $5 wines and well drinks and $1 off draft beer.
For those with special diets
Meat-free and animal-product-free entrees and appetizers are few at Firefly. Just one, a veggie burger ($14) is marked on the menu, although a few dishes may be able to be reworked. Gluten-free diners may fare better.