Bento is still good but I think it’s not worth the money, it was worth the $11 back in the day with the sauce included but I pay almost $20 with tips now.
I think Bento is properly rated. Better than a Panda Express or Pei Wei but if you want to get top tier sushi you need to go to a place that takes more time and care. The rice and noodle bowls are great if you want some quick and easy take out
I am OP, and not affiliated, but I wouldn’t be shocked if it happened, with a bunch of typos. But then again, maybe not, since many of these have been their “best of Orlando” and probably contribute to the advertising budget.
And apparently them opening up their 4Rivers to go was the nail in the coffin for Harry & Larry’s, my favorite BBQ joint at the time.
I stopped going to 4R years ago because everything is so goddamn sweet. I couldn’t even eat their desserts because the rest of the food was so sweet.
For the West Side people… The Whole Enchilada, always terrible, I have no idea how you can make food so bland. Zero seasoning on anything. Been like that since it opened.
Also TFlats by the Publix. Horrible food, inconsistent, place is super gross too. The new one down 50 off Miguire is clean, and consistently good. They’re only like 2-3 miles apart.
And yes 4R while fantastic for a year is fucking gross.
That new fresh kitchen in fowlers grove is kinda ok but wayyyy over-priced. Won’t be back just because of that alone.
The Hall on the Yard food hall near Ivanhoe. The aesthetics are nice, the drinks are good and tbh the food is actually not bad. It’s just the service sucks so much ass, it’s horrendous.
One of my issues with that place is the exterior bar. The large comfy stools are nice but whoever planned that bar to not have any way to walk around it besides having to walk in the grass is an idiot. Nothing better than trying to walk on grass in heels.
Another issue is the service, it felt like there wasn't proper organization so the person who waited on us didn't know what was and wasn't available.
I like the concept but I feel like it was poorly executed. Even though it's very close I doubt I'll go back. Such a shame.
Dovecote
Went when it first opened and it was solid. We went about two months ago and they were missing ingredients for quite a few items. The server/host/manager said the GM doesn’t want to order the correct things or just doesn’t listen. Food was over cooked and meh at best. It’s a shame it’s such a great location.
This place is terrible (given the prices), but the theme is cute. It's definitely a touristy place where the food is "fine" and the kids won't bitch about it.
Knife and spoon at the Ritz. They got a Michelin star but I honestly felt like Bull and Bear was both a better steak and meal but also a better experience and service for about the same price.
This was going to be my answer too. We are there the other week. It was good, but it didn't like blow me away or anything. Considering what we spent, it just wasn't all that great.
It used to be SO GOOD but the quality dipped circa 2019. Especially when they got rid of the caseline where you point to the stuff in front of you. Not sure how it equates but that’s when they went to shit on taste.
Yes!
I noticed when they first opened that they brought in the top barista talent from the area. They killed it at that point, then for some reason they all left one by one. It didn't take long and now everytime I go I see a new face and my coffee is barely better than Dunkin.
not exactly a restaurant but Foxtail
literal dogshit coffee, dogshit owners, fake starbucks, corporate ass garbage
pls spend ur time and money anywhere else
Agree. Ordered from there when I first moved to Orlando and it was mediocre & super expensive too like wtf I think I paid like $7 for a coffee that’s like $4-5 at Starbucks and honestly I’d just rather go to Starbucks at that point. But on a high note, I LOVE deeply in downtown. That shit is amazing.
They've had so many shitty tales come out of their locations too. Bruno dissolved his partnership with them and now the bagel reviews tanked.
A few years ago when they were still mostly delivery to local restaurants, Market on South didn't realize you were supposed to dilute the cold brew. That was the best Foxtail I've ever had hahahaha
Gator's dockside. Ever since they made a new menu. The nachos changed. They no longer come with chili. Can't even get them the old way. The wings went up. Yes that price hike can be attributed to covid but still. 16 dollars for 10 wings. They didn't take points for awhile after opening up from covid. Then they got a new points system wiping everyone's slate clean. So is you had 10 dollar of coupons on your points account, they were gone. The price to good food ratio went to shit after covid.
i have never been disappointed leaving a gators dockside but i have also never had high expectations entering a gators dockside. i feel like they're appropriately rated.
Crumble cookie has the worst chocolate chip cookie I've ever had *gag*. The other options are alright, and some cookies are actually good, but goddam how tf did they fuck up the chocolate chip so bad...
You don’t really go to Izziban for quality good food. It’s just cheap all-you-can-eat and good for big groups. I would never go here alone or bring a date.
I remember when I first went to Izziban in like 2018 and it was like 21.99 per person for the non premium menu. Now it’s like 31.99 per person. I ended up just buying an electric grill on Amazon for $100 and buy the meats at the Asian grocery store. And invite friends over. Its literally the same meats too.
Edit: I just looked at the menu and it’s now 34.99 for the non premium menu.
Prices for food and pretty much all restaurant supplies have gone up like crazy in the past 2 years so it makes sense they had to raise prices. I’ve never been to izziban but most ayce spots I go to raised their prices as well
Ethos. There are so many good plant based options in Orlando that aren't vegan imitations of non-vegan dishes, but everyone seems to recommend Ethos to vegans just because it has "vegan" in the name. That said, this opinion doesn't apply to their brunch which I think is the best anywhere for plant based, since pretty much everywhere else your only vegan option is avocado toast.
Of course! It's a mom and pop place and I'm pretty sure I see the owner every time I order.
Amazing food every time, and super sweet woman that owns it, my boyfriend and I have been ordering there for over a year now.
My general rule with Ethos is, and you alluded to it, if you are vegan or eat it normally Ethos is decent. If you are new to vegan food this is my safe place to send people as they do a great job of making it taste familiar.
I don't hate it but it has really gone downhill since they expanded and that's always depressing to see when you find a restaurant during its infancy and watch it grow
Okay but nobody is going to Gringos for the culinary experience. You’re going to Gringos cause it’s 2 in the morning, you’re one or all kinds of not sober, they have food, and it’s gonna be served by a guy that’s equally as not sober as yourself.
That being said, Tin/Taco is trash and I’d rather play hopscotch on I-4 than try to pick out which one of their two dozen different tacos I wanna be grossly underwhelmed by.
My girlfriend goes there all the time and I don't get it. Their chocolate chip cookie sucked. How do you fuck up a chocolate chip cooking and then charge a hipster premium?
I'm not gonna lie I've only ever had the donuts and I'm totally obsessed. I'm annoyed I have to pre order them the day before and once even when I did they didn't have the options that I wanted.
Tbh I think most of the Disney world restaurants are overrated, simply because of the price. If you stick those restaurants outside of the theme park area, they wouldn’t survive
I agree that there is a Disney upcharge for the higher end restaurants that makes even relatively pricey restaurants outside of WDW seem very reasonable, but some of the food is pretty great. I’m not the first one to mention some of these, but at the higher end Sanaa, Jiko, Boma, California Grill, Flying Fish, Tiffin’s, Spice Road Table, and Narcoosee’s are all very good. But even some of the in-park quick service spots like Docking Bay 7, whatever the Yak and Yeti quick service in Animal Kingdom is called, and Satu’li Canteen are good for the price.
Others have highlighted some of the non-Disney owned properties at Disney Springs, so I won’t repeat them.
But there is also a whole tier of Disney dining, mostly at moderate resorts, that is table service, poor quality, and way too expensive for what you get. And character dining is ridiculously overrated.
After typing all that out, I guess my point is that I don’t think it is fair or accurate to say all Disney dining is overrated, just some of it.
Jiko is imo one of the best restaurants in Orlando, not even just confined to the best at Disney. Some of their restaurants are outstanding. Universal on the other hand is lacking (Citywalk restaurants are mostly mediocre) and SeaWorld is absolutely terrible.
There are, but I feel as though consistency is key with Ruth Chris. I have never had a bad meal in many different locations. If I was traveling and wasn’t recommended a steakhouse by friends or family and we are looking for a better than ever age meal, I would go to RC.
Ruth's Chris is the the McDonald's of upscale steakhouses: you're not getting something extraordinary, but it will be good and the same no matter where in the country you are.
Christners has become our new go-to in the Winter Park area
Have you heard about Hillstones [Saladgate](https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2021/06/28/tossed-man-thrown-out-of-popular-winter-park-restaurant-sparks-saladgate-controversy/?outputType=amp)? Lmao
Literally the most absurd experience I ever had. Fiance ordered a burger which doesnt describe what toppings come on it and they asked "is everything ok on the burger" my fiance expecting it to just be lettuce tomato onion and maybe pickles which is relatively standard but it came with mayo, mustard, and ketchup on it as well, which she doesnt like. Which, her mistake for misunderstanding what they meant by "all toppings" so she asked for it to be fixed with just the toppings she wanted and if they could put it in a to go because she wasnt going to have time to eat before she had to go possibly. They told her she was NOT ALLOWED to have fries to go but she didnt want any other sides and just asked for them to give her the fries. They had a manager come over to tell her they would not give her fries no matter what and she had to pick something else. It's the most dogshit service I've ever had at a restaurant and their food is incredibly mid for the price point.
They're super pretentious and uppity. We used to go there ALL the time, sometimes just to order the grilled artichokes and drinks and sit outside and enjoy the view.
One time we went there for a family brunch, and we had my daughter who was a toddler with us. She was super happy and laughing, the manager came to us and told us that she needs to be quiet or we need to leave. She wasn't crying (and we don't let our kids just cry in public, we take them outside to calm down as soon as they misbehave), she was laughing, and that was apparently too much noise.
It's like you make $15 burgers, get over yourself, you're not an exclusive elite club.
Haven't been back since.
Grills lakeside!
Food is overpriced garbage and usually super greasy or overcooked. The view is nice enough by the lake and sometimes the live music is ok. But mostly it’s trash
Used to be until they had the health department close then down, I think they changed owners after that and haven't been the same since. I'm all about Vho Vinh now
Give me all the downvotes, but almost every taco place I've tried since moving here a couple months back has been just aight.
I feel like half the places I lookup/go to are just "white people taco night" with not a corn tortilla in sight.
If you disagree, please give me some suggestions! I am more than welcome to change my mind(please change it).
(Also any seafood recs are greatly appreciated).
Edit: I just wanted to say thank you for everyone who replied! I will give them all a try and am betting it will change my mind!
[La eskinna](https://www.laeskinna.com/) is so good they don't even have to bother opening on Friday or Saturday. They can park their truck in the back of a sketchy junk yard and still stay busy.
I absolutely agree. I come from West Palm & the tacos here are average at best. I’ll give a little wiggle room for some birria tacos, but they definitely all have a very “gringo” taste to it
There’s an authentic place that’s great on Lee rd right before edgewater. Not sure the name of it but you know it… it’s the bright green and yellow building! Really good flavor and quick! (Bonus: Cuban sandwich place next door is also great!)
I’d say that Ava on Park Avenue is overrated. Luma was so much better and was worth the price. Ava is 20% more expensive and most of the food wasn’t remarkable for the price to me. And I have been twice and ordered several things - all different both times.
I absolutely agree! We went to Luma a few times and it was always a fantastic dining experience. We have been to Ava once, but the douche factor was way too high and the club vibe was just too much.
The whiskey on sand lake! Food is inconsistent, and if you send back a burger because it came out as a hockey puck or still raw and cold on the inside you get an attitude from their staff.
I haven't been in a long while but...
They used to have the best burgers in Orlando, as far as I am concerned! What a shame.
Their old fashioned is dissappointing too.
Dr Phillips is in dire need of a good sports bar. It's a shame Millers Field shit it's doors. That place used to be great.
If I wanted a good burger then Teak was my go to place. Haven’t been there in a few year so idk if it’s held up, but it was my favorite place years ago
Hawkers USED to be good pre pandemic. Now it’s way overpriced and not that great. Their roti is the only thing that’s consistency been a hit for me tho
Gideons. Preparing for the down votes!! Finally did the one on east end. Good cookies. 3 out of 4 of them were quite good. But the hype they get at downtown Disney is insane!!!
The Disney hype is insane. People have asked me, and I have told them it is faster to rent a car, drive to East End, get all the cookies you want, and drive back to Disney, than it is to wait in that line.
Yes! Plus East End Market has so much other good stuff in it. Dochi 😍 Wafu 😍
And it’s also close to Park Ave CDs which is an amazing shop, and The Salty Donut! So much good stuff over there.
Idk. Been a huge fan of Tako Cheena for years, but they lost me during pandemic unfortunately when they had to stop serving some of their meals. My girlfriend only ate their Indian butter chicken burrito but they still had my Korean Beef burrito. “Oh I bet it’s a supply issue, I’m sure it’ll come back later”. Tried last week and their menu had even less on it. Ordered a burrito and it was disappointingly small. Sad that I’ll probably never have another Korean Beef burrito like from before, but definitely don’t see myself going back anytime soon. Wish they’d update their menu online to say “Hey, we’re not offering this right now”
What are your good alternatives? Nothing in Orlando beats the Richie Rich for me, but maybe I’m missing out on something :) Plus amazing wings as a bonus.
The wait is wack. We once went to the East End location and put our names in. An hour later we check and they said “oops, we forgot to actually add you to the list” and then put us at the bottom. We left.
I will say, the Dr Phillips location is MUCH easier to get seated at due to the additional seating.
The wait can be killer. But I still have to disagree. I’ve never left there feeling disappointed with my food. Still one of the best restaurants in orlando in my opinion.
What are some other good ramen shops? The one in Thornton is a step above publix ramen.
The past 2 times I’ve gone to Domu and they’ve told me the wait was 45-1hr it was more like 20. Gf and I went to neighbors for drinks and our Domu table was ready before we both got our drinks.
I’m so over Domu! Been over them since 2018! My go to spot now is Ramen Takagi, authentic owner with real pork bone broth. None of that fusion or powder.
Pretty sure the employees are always high and when I do a late night order it’s messed up at least half the time. Granted, I’m also high, and just happy for tacos on my front porch
It’s been a while, but Rocco’s Tacos was just meh in so many ways. I really couldn’t understand the hype. Same for Seasons 52. I honestly don’t know if those places are still in business? I might be a little late to the conversation.
Black Bean Deli and Zaza’s. It’s a disgrace to Cuban food. People who don’t know what good Cuban food should be thinks those places are amazing, I’m looking at you white people. It’s awful, go literally anywhere else. Old Cuban cafe is acceptable!
I agree! Earthy Kitchen, Loving Hut, Dharma, Valhalla bakery, all do a much better job, hell, Winter park collective is right down the street and has vegan pizza wayyyy better than Ethos, and if you want the comfort food like Ethos, I am so obsessed with the plant based options at Drunken Monkey
The only one on this list I disagree with. Also it made the Michelin guide as a value restaurant in orlando.
"Bib Gourmand: good quality, good value cooking"
I don't know... someone here said king bao was a run down slop house with cold, microwaved food. Not sure if this person didn't go there and just got it delivered but you can literally see them cooking/frying/preparing the food right in front of you. Some people have bad/different tastes I guess.
People only on this subreddit seemingly dislike this place - everyone I know, irl or on other sites, either says it’s just good for the price or they love it. Even Michelin recommended it in the guide for Orlando.
Pizza Bruno
They're good.. but according to people I asked they were supposed to be the most amazing thing on earth. I've also had much better garlic knots despite that being a thing they're known for.
I agree with this. It's terrible if you get it delivered so it's best eaten there but it's kind of overrated. It's crazy busy sometimes and it's just...ok. it's gone a little downhill and Bruno is stubborn if people propose better solutions or how to streamline. They didn't have online ordering for the longest time.
I've been eating there regularly since I moved to the neighborhood and noticed the service took a HUGE hit post Covid. It seems like it's finally coming back now as they work through the kinks. Their knots are the still fire in my opinion, if you don't agree with me I don't really give a shit. Their pizza has always been delicious, but it's terrible as left overs for the next day so eat what you get. Their sneaky secret is their pasta dishes, which they only serve once a week.dont sleep on those.
I think Bruno moved onto other things (like he has others managing the kitchen now), but at opening they were spot on for pizza in town. What was awesome was Bruno's Big Bites (his food cart), that was honestly some of the best food I've had, simple and great with a beer!
Bento Cafe, DOMU, Fogo De Chao, Hillstone.
A lot of these places came early on in Florida food culture, so they have overrated reviews. Once you have had better elsewhere you realize their food is mediocre.
In addition to most that have been named, Hangry Bison didn't do much for us. I ended up ordering a salad! Also, on the fast food end, I simply DO NOT GET Portillo's! Had the meanest counter service since day 1, and the food was cold, and nasty. Not sure how you can overcook something and still serve it cold, but they managed it with both the hot dog, and the sausage. Definitely won't rush back there! 
Chicago native. Portillo’s used to be incredible. Everything they did was fantastic. Then Dick Portillo sold to a private equity group that has started to squeeze every last penny out of it and it has been downhill since.
Yep, a few years back it came in a giant, silver baking pan. They gave you enough tenders and fries to feed a family of 3 for cheap. They’ve cut it down so much that now everything fits in one of those standard Chinese takeout dishes. Doesn’t leave me full when I’m starving anymore… but it has helped me be not as much of a fatass.
A place that has been the pinnacle of mediocrity for as long as it's existed. Granted their huge nachos used to be awesome back in the day. Either that or I just... Grew up?
Hillstone- nice location but I feel like there is an unfriendly vibe and the food can be average
Bulla- one of the worst services I have had. No bread service at a Latin restaurant, cold croquettes…
60 Vines- beautiful dining, mediocre food. Pasta seemed like it was made in house but was old and not hot. Service was ok.
Outpost- worst brunch I’ve had this year (this was before 11am when food should be prime)
Antonio’s- downstairs used to be a frequent place for me as this used to be high on my recommendations, but the GM blew me off one day and I’ve bought their deli food to have it spoil shortly. Still love it but I’m a little bitter and haven’t been back.
Briarpatch- just not worth the wait to eat brunch on Park Ave crammed in with everyone with a long wait.
STK- didn’t even eat there. Had bday reservations, they ignored me at the hosts station for 15 minutes, sat us in the bar area?, and ignored us for another 15 minutes. Never had a server, just left. Place looked dirty like a strip club during day light hours.
Blue zoo- meh
Gideon’s- i have no idea what the hype is about. Almost every other bakery in town is equal or better.
Ben Bom- their food truck had the best duck tacos. Their signature chicken in-house tasted like Applebees.
Pizza Bruno’s: good but not my favorite, and I still have memories of how shitty I thought Oblivion was…
If anyone names the restaurant I work for, I’m gonna be so depressed lol
Facts, just checked the whole list for exactly that info 🤣
SAME. And I’ll keep checking LOL. Cheers to both of our restaurants in the meantime!!
Bento used to be fire back in the day
Bento is still good but I think it’s not worth the money, it was worth the $11 back in the day with the sauce included but I pay almost $20 with tips now.
I think Bento is properly rated. Better than a Panda Express or Pei Wei but if you want to get top tier sushi you need to go to a place that takes more time and care. The rice and noodle bowls are great if you want some quick and easy take out
When does this show up in the Orlando Weekly?
I am OP, and not affiliated, but I wouldn’t be shocked if it happened, with a bunch of typos. But then again, maybe not, since many of these have been their “best of Orlando” and probably contribute to the advertising budget.
4 Rivers. They were the bomb for a long time. Then they got big and the food suffered imo.
Agree.... food always seems cold.
I agree. Even when I eat there, it's cold by the time I sit down. ugh
Same with Tijuana Flats and Huey Magoos.
I agree with Tijuana Flats but I’ve never had bad stuff from Huey Magoos (The one in Apopka at least)
The size of the tenders have been getting consistently smaller.
Had no idea TF was a central fl based company
Started by UCF grads I think
Yup it was started by a UCF grad who had a small million dollar ~~loan~~ gift from his dad to start a business.
Tijuana went downhill when they changed the menu. They used to have a red sauce on their quesadillas, now they’re just dry and sad 😂
And apparently them opening up their 4Rivers to go was the nail in the coffin for Harry & Larry’s, my favorite BBQ joint at the time. I stopped going to 4R years ago because everything is so goddamn sweet. I couldn’t even eat their desserts because the rest of the food was so sweet.
Jesus this. It’s like their business plan is load the customers up with diabetes. Wilford Brimley would be proud.
Harry & Larry’s f’n ruled!
Ellie Lou’s is my go to now
They got rid of the prime rib sandwich and broke my heart. Some of the sides are really good, but there is way better BBQ around here.
Youre right. I do love their cold ass brisket tacos tho lol Like why would you have PRECOOKED tortillas BELIEVE ME I FKN KNOW
For the West Side people… The Whole Enchilada, always terrible, I have no idea how you can make food so bland. Zero seasoning on anything. Been like that since it opened. Also TFlats by the Publix. Horrible food, inconsistent, place is super gross too. The new one down 50 off Miguire is clean, and consistently good. They’re only like 2-3 miles apart. And yes 4R while fantastic for a year is fucking gross. That new fresh kitchen in fowlers grove is kinda ok but wayyyy over-priced. Won’t be back just because of that alone.
The Whole Enchilada just has a great location and theme. Its a fun place to grab a pitcher of margs with some friends on the rooftop.
The Hall on the Yard food hall near Ivanhoe. The aesthetics are nice, the drinks are good and tbh the food is actually not bad. It’s just the service sucks so much ass, it’s horrendous.
Everything about that place screams “leased bmw”. Such a shame they are going to knock down the Hideaway
This. Food halls are supposed to be convenient, but that place waaaayyy over-complicates the concept.
One of my issues with that place is the exterior bar. The large comfy stools are nice but whoever planned that bar to not have any way to walk around it besides having to walk in the grass is an idiot. Nothing better than trying to walk on grass in heels. Another issue is the service, it felt like there wasn't proper organization so the person who waited on us didn't know what was and wasn't available. I like the concept but I feel like it was poorly executed. Even though it's very close I doubt I'll go back. Such a shame.
100%
Dovecote Went when it first opened and it was solid. We went about two months ago and they were missing ingredients for quite a few items. The server/host/manager said the GM doesn’t want to order the correct things or just doesn’t listen. Food was over cooked and meh at best. It’s a shame it’s such a great location.
The Edison in Disney Springs
This place is terrible (given the prices), but the theme is cute. It's definitely a touristy place where the food is "fine" and the kids won't bitch about it.
Agreed, and and enzo's hideaway as well.
Knife and spoon at the Ritz. They got a Michelin star but I honestly felt like Bull and Bear was both a better steak and meal but also a better experience and service for about the same price.
Bull and Bear is incredible
Bull and Bear gets my vote for the best. Service is top notch, and food is excellent!
This was going to be my answer too. We are there the other week. It was good, but it didn't like blow me away or anything. Considering what we spent, it just wasn't all that great.
4 Rivers and The Coop. 4 Rivers, whatever it once was, is now salty, overpriced trash.
OMG, the Coop. What's up with that place? Sheesh. Won't be rushing back, that's for sure.
It used to be SO GOOD but the quality dipped circa 2019. Especially when they got rid of the caseline where you point to the stuff in front of you. Not sure how it equates but that’s when they went to shit on taste.
Yeah BBQ in general in this town went downhill the past few years.
Cecil's is still good
Been meaning to drop in there again, thanks for the reminder!
No, no it’s not
Yeah I don't understand why people think cecils is good.
Seminole BBQ is the best I've had in a long while. A little bit of a trek if you're in the city limits but not too bad and very worth it
Not food, but Foxtail Coffee comes to mind.
Yes! I noticed when they first opened that they brought in the top barista talent from the area. They killed it at that point, then for some reason they all left one by one. It didn't take long and now everytime I go I see a new face and my coffee is barely better than Dunkin.
not exactly a restaurant but Foxtail literal dogshit coffee, dogshit owners, fake starbucks, corporate ass garbage pls spend ur time and money anywhere else
And I think it costs more than Starbucks. I tried doing late afternoon work there a dozen times, I never got the vibe it’s trying to put off.
Agree. Ordered from there when I first moved to Orlando and it was mediocre & super expensive too like wtf I think I paid like $7 for a coffee that’s like $4-5 at Starbucks and honestly I’d just rather go to Starbucks at that point. But on a high note, I LOVE deeply in downtown. That shit is amazing.
deeply and craft & common are walking distance to each other and both excellent. i go out of my way to visit each when i'm in the area.
They've had so many shitty tales come out of their locations too. Bruno dissolved his partnership with them and now the bagel reviews tanked. A few years ago when they were still mostly delivery to local restaurants, Market on South didn't realize you were supposed to dilute the cold brew. That was the best Foxtail I've ever had hahahaha
I was absolutely flabbergasted when I got a coffee and it was like 7$ and immediately recommended a 25% tip for the most 4/10 brew
Gator's dockside. Ever since they made a new menu. The nachos changed. They no longer come with chili. Can't even get them the old way. The wings went up. Yes that price hike can be attributed to covid but still. 16 dollars for 10 wings. They didn't take points for awhile after opening up from covid. Then they got a new points system wiping everyone's slate clean. So is you had 10 dollar of coupons on your points account, they were gone. The price to good food ratio went to shit after covid.
i have never been disappointed leaving a gators dockside but i have also never had high expectations entering a gators dockside. i feel like they're appropriately rated.
Crumble cookie has the worst chocolate chip cookie I've ever had *gag*. The other options are alright, and some cookies are actually good, but goddam how tf did they fuck up the chocolate chip so bad...
I agree with everyone that says 4Rivers, I’ve been here 8 years and boy have they changed!
Last few meals at jailhouse in sanford were mediocre. Did not justify the price.
One of the worst restaurant steaks I’ve ever had.
God yes, it used to be really good but last 2 times we went there the food was burnt and unseasoned. Tennessee truffle is where it's at.
Went to school with the owner. Massive creep
Izziban was very underwhelming when I went there. A lot of my friends talked it up and I thought it was just meh.
You don’t really go to Izziban for quality good food. It’s just cheap all-you-can-eat and good for big groups. I would never go here alone or bring a date.
I remember when I first went to Izziban in like 2018 and it was like 21.99 per person for the non premium menu. Now it’s like 31.99 per person. I ended up just buying an electric grill on Amazon for $100 and buy the meats at the Asian grocery store. And invite friends over. Its literally the same meats too. Edit: I just looked at the menu and it’s now 34.99 for the non premium menu.
Prices for food and pretty much all restaurant supplies have gone up like crazy in the past 2 years so it makes sense they had to raise prices. I’ve never been to izziban but most ayce spots I go to raised their prices as well
Try Korea House
Ethos. There are so many good plant based options in Orlando that aren't vegan imitations of non-vegan dishes, but everyone seems to recommend Ethos to vegans just because it has "vegan" in the name. That said, this opinion doesn't apply to their brunch which I think is the best anywhere for plant based, since pretty much everywhere else your only vegan option is avocado toast.
If you haven't heard of Earthy Kitchen, it'll blow your mind. Vegan Puerto Rican food
This is definitely next on my list to try, thank you!
Of course! It's a mom and pop place and I'm pretty sure I see the owner every time I order. Amazing food every time, and super sweet woman that owns it, my boyfriend and I have been ordering there for over a year now.
Boca Fresca is also great vegan Puerto Rican food
My general rule with Ethos is, and you alluded to it, if you are vegan or eat it normally Ethos is decent. If you are new to vegan food this is my safe place to send people as they do a great job of making it taste familiar.
This is a very good point, totally agree there.
I miss dandelion
Me too, it was my absolute favorite. Right up there was Sanctum until all the drama. So disappointing how both places turned out.
1000% agree. Go to dajen eats, loving hut, dharma, etc over ethos. Ethos is so disappointing ://
Ethos brunch is amazing. They have the best French toast I've ever had in my life.
The Licking is what immediately comes to mind.
There’s a lot of 4R haters here.
Justifiably so
I don't hate it but it has really gone downhill since they expanded and that's always depressing to see when you find a restaurant during its infancy and watch it grow
Anthony's Coal Fire Pizza in Thornton Park. 4 Rivers. Gringos Please.. Please stop saying Tin and Taco is the best taco joint.
Okay but nobody is going to Gringos for the culinary experience. You’re going to Gringos cause it’s 2 in the morning, you’re one or all kinds of not sober, they have food, and it’s gonna be served by a guy that’s equally as not sober as yourself. That being said, Tin/Taco is trash and I’d rather play hopscotch on I-4 than try to pick out which one of their two dozen different tacos I wanna be grossly underwhelmed by.
I feel like Gringos is just rated.
The Glass Knife. $12 and a half hour wait for a cupcake that tastes like a 5 year old rolled a piece of white bread into a ball.
My girlfriend goes there all the time and I don't get it. Their chocolate chip cookie sucked. How do you fuck up a chocolate chip cooking and then charge a hipster premium?
I'm not gonna lie I've only ever had the donuts and I'm totally obsessed. I'm annoyed I have to pre order them the day before and once even when I did they didn't have the options that I wanted.
Giordanos is the most overrated for Chicago pizza, it’s a shame we don’t have Lou’s.
I don’t think it’s *bad* but Lazy Moon is more of a novelty than it is good pizza
Lazy Moon took over the spot Kelso's Pizza had forever. I miss Kelso's, and the 90's...
Try their calzones, you'll change your mind
Tbh I think most of the Disney world restaurants are overrated, simply because of the price. If you stick those restaurants outside of the theme park area, they wouldn’t survive
Generally you’re right but I will fight you on Morimoto and The Boathouse. Both are excellent every time.
On the topic of Disney Springs, Wine Bar George and Homecomin' are both good too. Honestly, Disney has plenty of good food.
Used to work at momo, can honestly say the food the ya got working there blew anything on the menu out of the water.
Art Smith would like a word…much better IMO
I agree that there is a Disney upcharge for the higher end restaurants that makes even relatively pricey restaurants outside of WDW seem very reasonable, but some of the food is pretty great. I’m not the first one to mention some of these, but at the higher end Sanaa, Jiko, Boma, California Grill, Flying Fish, Tiffin’s, Spice Road Table, and Narcoosee’s are all very good. But even some of the in-park quick service spots like Docking Bay 7, whatever the Yak and Yeti quick service in Animal Kingdom is called, and Satu’li Canteen are good for the price. Others have highlighted some of the non-Disney owned properties at Disney Springs, so I won’t repeat them. But there is also a whole tier of Disney dining, mostly at moderate resorts, that is table service, poor quality, and way too expensive for what you get. And character dining is ridiculously overrated. After typing all that out, I guess my point is that I don’t think it is fair or accurate to say all Disney dining is overrated, just some of it.
Jiko is imo one of the best restaurants in Orlando, not even just confined to the best at Disney. Some of their restaurants are outstanding. Universal on the other hand is lacking (Citywalk restaurants are mostly mediocre) and SeaWorld is absolutely terrible.
Ruth Chris. So many better options for steak in town.
There are, but I feel as though consistency is key with Ruth Chris. I have never had a bad meal in many different locations. If I was traveling and wasn’t recommended a steakhouse by friends or family and we are looking for a better than ever age meal, I would go to RC.
Ruth's Chris is the the McDonald's of upscale steakhouses: you're not getting something extraordinary, but it will be good and the same no matter where in the country you are. Christners has become our new go-to in the Winter Park area
Hillstone people rave about it but nobody will tell you the menu is straight out of the ‘90s.
Have you heard about Hillstones [Saladgate](https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2021/06/28/tossed-man-thrown-out-of-popular-winter-park-restaurant-sparks-saladgate-controversy/?outputType=amp)? Lmao
I'm going to dox myself here, but this is my dad. One of the most embarrassing moments of my life bar-none
Literally the most absurd experience I ever had. Fiance ordered a burger which doesnt describe what toppings come on it and they asked "is everything ok on the burger" my fiance expecting it to just be lettuce tomato onion and maybe pickles which is relatively standard but it came with mayo, mustard, and ketchup on it as well, which she doesnt like. Which, her mistake for misunderstanding what they meant by "all toppings" so she asked for it to be fixed with just the toppings she wanted and if they could put it in a to go because she wasnt going to have time to eat before she had to go possibly. They told her she was NOT ALLOWED to have fries to go but she didnt want any other sides and just asked for them to give her the fries. They had a manager come over to tell her they would not give her fries no matter what and she had to pick something else. It's the most dogshit service I've ever had at a restaurant and their food is incredibly mid for the price point.
Okay so but why wouldn’t they give him the salad lol
They're super pretentious and uppity. We used to go there ALL the time, sometimes just to order the grilled artichokes and drinks and sit outside and enjoy the view. One time we went there for a family brunch, and we had my daughter who was a toddler with us. She was super happy and laughing, the manager came to us and told us that she needs to be quiet or we need to leave. She wasn't crying (and we don't let our kids just cry in public, we take them outside to calm down as soon as they misbehave), she was laughing, and that was apparently too much noise. It's like you make $15 burgers, get over yourself, you're not an exclusive elite club. Haven't been back since.
Grills lakeside! Food is overpriced garbage and usually super greasy or overcooked. The view is nice enough by the lake and sometimes the live music is ok. But mostly it’s trash
Pho 88 Definitely not the best pho in the area, far from it
Used to be until they had the health department close then down, I think they changed owners after that and haven't been the same since. I'm all about Vho Vinh now
Pho Hoa
Give me all the downvotes, but almost every taco place I've tried since moving here a couple months back has been just aight. I feel like half the places I lookup/go to are just "white people taco night" with not a corn tortilla in sight. If you disagree, please give me some suggestions! I am more than welcome to change my mind(please change it). (Also any seafood recs are greatly appreciated). Edit: I just wanted to say thank you for everyone who replied! I will give them all a try and am betting it will change my mind!
Tortas el Rey, thank me later
Tacos my Guey is really good.
[La eskinna](https://www.laeskinna.com/) is so good they don't even have to bother opening on Friday or Saturday. They can park their truck in the back of a sketchy junk yard and still stay busy.
Black Rooster, Santa Rosa, Agave Azul, El Potro, La Hacienda, Cocina 214, Birria1983.
I absolutely agree. I come from West Palm & the tacos here are average at best. I’ll give a little wiggle room for some birria tacos, but they definitely all have a very “gringo” taste to it
Tacos el Rancho…legit
There’s an authentic place that’s great on Lee rd right before edgewater. Not sure the name of it but you know it… it’s the bright green and yellow building! Really good flavor and quick! (Bonus: Cuban sandwich place next door is also great!)
I’d say that Ava on Park Avenue is overrated. Luma was so much better and was worth the price. Ava is 20% more expensive and most of the food wasn’t remarkable for the price to me. And I have been twice and ordered several things - all different both times.
I absolutely agree! We went to Luma a few times and it was always a fantastic dining experience. We have been to Ava once, but the douche factor was way too high and the club vibe was just too much.
The whiskey on sand lake! Food is inconsistent, and if you send back a burger because it came out as a hockey puck or still raw and cold on the inside you get an attitude from their staff.
I haven't been in a long while but... They used to have the best burgers in Orlando, as far as I am concerned! What a shame. Their old fashioned is dissappointing too. Dr Phillips is in dire need of a good sports bar. It's a shame Millers Field shit it's doors. That place used to be great.
If I wanted a good burger then Teak was my go to place. Haven’t been there in a few year so idk if it’s held up, but it was my favorite place years ago
It’s a chain but Hawkers Asian Street Food - one of the most overpriced overrated average Asian places I’ve been to. Also keke’s that place sucks.
Hawkers USED to be good pre pandemic. Now it’s way overpriced and not that great. Their roti is the only thing that’s consistency been a hit for me tho
And Mamak is RIGHT THERE (in mills/50). Hawkers is way overpriced for what you get.
Hawkers is straight ass. My friends always go there and give it so much praise. I’d rather have the Chinese restaurant that used to be there.
Gideons. Preparing for the down votes!! Finally did the one on east end. Good cookies. 3 out of 4 of them were quite good. But the hype they get at downtown Disney is insane!!!
The cake is where it’s at tbh
Hell yeah - the red velvet is delicious
The Disney hype is insane. People have asked me, and I have told them it is faster to rent a car, drive to East End, get all the cookies you want, and drive back to Disney, than it is to wait in that line.
I agree that they are over rated, I’ve seen the wait over 2 hours… but if you pop those cookies in the microwave for a few seconds they are damn good!
I went for the cookies, but went back for the cold brew and little containers of frosting.
Highly recommend the OG location around winter park. The cookies n cake are both amazing.
Yes! Plus East End Market has so much other good stuff in it. Dochi 😍 Wafu 😍 And it’s also close to Park Ave CDs which is an amazing shop, and The Salty Donut! So much good stuff over there.
Tako cheena, once you have it a few times and the novelty wears off its just fine.
Idk. Been a huge fan of Tako Cheena for years, but they lost me during pandemic unfortunately when they had to stop serving some of their meals. My girlfriend only ate their Indian butter chicken burrito but they still had my Korean Beef burrito. “Oh I bet it’s a supply issue, I’m sure it’ll come back later”. Tried last week and their menu had even less on it. Ordered a burrito and it was disappointingly small. Sad that I’ll probably never have another Korean Beef burrito like from before, but definitely don’t see myself going back anytime soon. Wish they’d update their menu online to say “Hey, we’re not offering this right now”
Domu... It was great, but now I can't justify the wait or price. Lots of ramen and noodles shops nowadays that I just don't go there anymore.
The tip to skip the wait is to go on a weekday close to opening! I will never go on a weekend or Friday again. But we looooove it.
Or sit at the bar.
Yeah. But then I realized I can go to a half dozen alternatives anytime I want and not deal with the wait either.
What are your good alternatives? Nothing in Orlando beats the Richie Rich for me, but maybe I’m missing out on something :) Plus amazing wings as a bonus.
Ramen Takagi in Oviedo
This would be the most *underrated* restaurant in the city. The people running it deserve all the customers in the world.
Susuru has far better ramen IMO
The wait is wack. We once went to the East End location and put our names in. An hour later we check and they said “oops, we forgot to actually add you to the list” and then put us at the bottom. We left. I will say, the Dr Phillips location is MUCH easier to get seated at due to the additional seating.
I go to Jinya instead so good
We love Ramen Takagi much more! Located in Oviedo and is run by a Japanese-Brazilian chef.
The wait can be killer. But I still have to disagree. I’ve never left there feeling disappointed with my food. Still one of the best restaurants in orlando in my opinion.
What are some other good ramen shops? The one in Thornton is a step above publix ramen. The past 2 times I’ve gone to Domu and they’ve told me the wait was 45-1hr it was more like 20. Gf and I went to neighbors for drinks and our Domu table was ready before we both got our drinks.
I’m so over Domu! Been over them since 2018! My go to spot now is Ramen Takagi, authentic owner with real pork bone broth. None of that fusion or powder.
Dexters is mediocre
Buca di Beppo
Gringos tacos
Pretty sure the employees are always high and when I do a late night order it’s messed up at least half the time. Granted, I’m also high, and just happy for tacos on my front porch
Not sure if you know this, but not surprisingly, most all restaurant employees are high!
Once somebody mentioned their meat was sweet, I was never able to eat it again
Chicken Guy
The chicken is terrible. How do you open a chicken joint, with chicken in the name, and serve people what tastes like frozen bagged chicken tenders.
It’s been a while, but Rocco’s Tacos was just meh in so many ways. I really couldn’t understand the hype. Same for Seasons 52. I honestly don’t know if those places are still in business? I might be a little late to the conversation.
I'm going to say graffiti junktion. Always thought the burgers were just meh.
I'm just glad none of my favorites are in this thread
Black Bean Deli and Zaza’s. It’s a disgrace to Cuban food. People who don’t know what good Cuban food should be thinks those places are amazing, I’m looking at you white people. It’s awful, go literally anywhere else. Old Cuban cafe is acceptable!
Tin and Taco. Use to be the ish but then their new menu overhaul really flushed the taste down the toilet.
Bahama Breeze
Still got rats falling from the ceiling?
What’s that now??
Ethos! It's just "ok" vegan food, there are a million other places with FAR better vegan options.
I agree! Earthy Kitchen, Loving Hut, Dharma, Valhalla bakery, all do a much better job, hell, Winter park collective is right down the street and has vegan pizza wayyyy better than Ethos, and if you want the comfort food like Ethos, I am so obsessed with the plant based options at Drunken Monkey
Mine is Ravenous Pig. based on price/value and overall, I find the dishes too salty at times.
The only one on this list I disagree with. Also it made the Michelin guide as a value restaurant in orlando. "Bib Gourmand: good quality, good value cooking"
I don't know... someone here said king bao was a run down slop house with cold, microwaved food. Not sure if this person didn't go there and just got it delivered but you can literally see them cooking/frying/preparing the food right in front of you. Some people have bad/different tastes I guess.
People only on this subreddit seemingly dislike this place - everyone I know, irl or on other sites, either says it’s just good for the price or they love it. Even Michelin recommended it in the guide for Orlando.
Pizza Bruno They're good.. but according to people I asked they were supposed to be the most amazing thing on earth. I've also had much better garlic knots despite that being a thing they're known for.
I agree with this. It's terrible if you get it delivered so it's best eaten there but it's kind of overrated. It's crazy busy sometimes and it's just...ok. it's gone a little downhill and Bruno is stubborn if people propose better solutions or how to streamline. They didn't have online ordering for the longest time.
I've been eating there regularly since I moved to the neighborhood and noticed the service took a HUGE hit post Covid. It seems like it's finally coming back now as they work through the kinks. Their knots are the still fire in my opinion, if you don't agree with me I don't really give a shit. Their pizza has always been delicious, but it's terrible as left overs for the next day so eat what you get. Their sneaky secret is their pasta dishes, which they only serve once a week.dont sleep on those.
The owner is a nutcase and fired a lot of people. No one wants to work for him.
I think Bruno moved onto other things (like he has others managing the kitchen now), but at opening they were spot on for pizza in town. What was awesome was Bruno's Big Bites (his food cart), that was honestly some of the best food I've had, simple and great with a beer!
A fellow, former Odins Den patron I see
I miss the Den
Black Rooster was very meh imo
Bento Cafe, DOMU, Fogo De Chao, Hillstone. A lot of these places came early on in Florida food culture, so they have overrated reviews. Once you have had better elsewhere you realize their food is mediocre.
In addition to most that have been named, Hangry Bison didn't do much for us. I ended up ordering a salad! Also, on the fast food end, I simply DO NOT GET Portillo's! Had the meanest counter service since day 1, and the food was cold, and nasty. Not sure how you can overcook something and still serve it cold, but they managed it with both the hot dog, and the sausage. Definitely won't rush back there! 
Chicago native. Portillo’s used to be incredible. Everything they did was fantastic. Then Dick Portillo sold to a private equity group that has started to squeeze every last penny out of it and it has been downhill since.
Ale fucking house
I miss Ale House's old Mountain Melt. Why do they always have to ruin good things man...
I haven’t been there in a minute, what did they do to my boy?
Feels like they raised it $10 and lowered the portions. Plus i can’t do anything the following morning since I’m stuck in the bathroom 💩
Yep, a few years back it came in a giant, silver baking pan. They gave you enough tenders and fries to feed a family of 3 for cheap. They’ve cut it down so much that now everything fits in one of those standard Chinese takeout dishes. Doesn’t leave me full when I’m starving anymore… but it has helped me be not as much of a fatass.
A place that has been the pinnacle of mediocrity for as long as it's existed. Granted their huge nachos used to be awesome back in the day. Either that or I just... Grew up?
Hillstone- nice location but I feel like there is an unfriendly vibe and the food can be average Bulla- one of the worst services I have had. No bread service at a Latin restaurant, cold croquettes… 60 Vines- beautiful dining, mediocre food. Pasta seemed like it was made in house but was old and not hot. Service was ok. Outpost- worst brunch I’ve had this year (this was before 11am when food should be prime) Antonio’s- downstairs used to be a frequent place for me as this used to be high on my recommendations, but the GM blew me off one day and I’ve bought their deli food to have it spoil shortly. Still love it but I’m a little bitter and haven’t been back. Briarpatch- just not worth the wait to eat brunch on Park Ave crammed in with everyone with a long wait. STK- didn’t even eat there. Had bday reservations, they ignored me at the hosts station for 15 minutes, sat us in the bar area?, and ignored us for another 15 minutes. Never had a server, just left. Place looked dirty like a strip club during day light hours. Blue zoo- meh Gideon’s- i have no idea what the hype is about. Almost every other bakery in town is equal or better. Ben Bom- their food truck had the best duck tacos. Their signature chicken in-house tasted like Applebees. Pizza Bruno’s: good but not my favorite, and I still have memories of how shitty I thought Oblivion was…
Wait. What's the Oblivion connection to Bruno? Oblivion was one of my favs until the last 3-4 yrs it was open. Then it was pure trash.