75 of My Favorite Restaurants, Bars & Local Food Spots in Central Florida
If there is one thing you should know about me, it’s that I love a great house...but I really love knowing where we’re going to eat, drink, and be merry around me!
I’ve lived, worked, sold homes, met clients, celebrated birthdays, hosted events, had date nights and raised my family around Central Florida for years. And somewhere along the way, I became the friend everyone asks:
“Adrienne, where should we eat?”
So I finally made the list.
These aren’t restaurants I pulled from Google or places that made somebody else’s “Best Of” list. I’ve actually been to these places. I have favorite dishes, favorite bartenders, favorite tables and, in a few cases, decades of memories attached to them.
Whether you’re new to Central Florida, thinking about moving here, or you’ve lived here forever and need somewhere new to try, welcome to my personal good-time and foodie guide.
And yes, I have opinions. 😉
Winter Park, Altamonte Springs & Orlando
1. Bulla Gastrobar | Winter Park
Amazing for a business lunch or lunch with friends.
2. AVA MediterrAegean | Winter Park
One of my favorite spots for date night or a special occasion. The martinis are excellent, and you have to order the meatballs and Black Truffle Risotto.
And I probably shouldn’t tell you this...but there’s an invitation-only speakeasy downstairs too. 😉
3. Añejo Cocina Mexicana | Winter Park
Amazing for lunch. I love the street corn!
4. The Ravenous Pig | Winter Park
Comfort food at its finest. A longtime Winter Park favorite of mine.
5. Tibby’s New Orleans Kitchen | Altamonte Springs
Such a fun atmosphere and excellent NOLA food. This is a great spot when you want something casual, colorful and a little different.
6. Bosphorous Turkish Cuisine | Winter Park
One of my favorite date nights. Get the mixed grill for two!
7. Prato | Winter Park
Perfect for lunch or dinner after a stroll and some shopping on Park Avenue. The food is great, and their drinks are top-notch.
8. The Wine Room on Park Avenue | Winter Park
Such a fun wine-tasting experience. Why buy the whole bottle without tasting it first?
And yes, they have an old bank vault for private parties. It’s fabulous.
9. Kohinoor Indian Restaurant | Altamonte Springs
My favorite Indian food in the Altamonte area, and the service is excellent.
10. Winter Park Biscuit Company | Orlando
A vegan treat with Southern flair and one of my favorites. You’ll find it inside East End Market.
11. Mynt Fine Indian Cuisine | Winter Park
The BEST Indian food I’ve found in Central Florida. A must-eat.
Sanford
12. The Old Jailhouse | Sanford
Such a great historical atmosphere with a fabulous menu. And the Old Fashioneds are excellent here!
13. Hollerbach’s German Restaurant | Sanford
A little journey into German heritage with delicious old-world food. You must have a Das Boot!!!
14. The Breezeway Restaurant & Bar | Sanford
The best shrimp tacos! I love the outdoor atmosphere, and the staff is always super friendly.
15. The District | Sanford
I could eat buckets of their mussels, and their bone-in pork chop is perfect.
Lake Mary
16. F&D Cantina | Lake Mary
Great atmosphere for parties or a pick-me-up lunch. Fun, lively and always a good time.
17. FishBones | Lake Mary
Hands down, the best steak I’ve had in Central Florida. They make a mean dirty martini too!
This is an amazing place for an anniversary or special occasion...or just because, like me. 😉
18. Friendly Confines | Lake Mary
A late-night, delicious bar-food treat! I love their buffalo chicken wrap.
It’s also a great place to host a meeting or gathering. They have a back room, and management has always been super helpful.
19. Persis Indian Grill | Lake Mary
I LOVE their butter chicken! If Indian food is what you’re craving in Lake Mary, this is one of my go-to spots.
20. Topgolf | Lake Mary
Yes, it’s a chain, but it’s way too much fun not to include. Great for a company event, date night or just getting a group of friends together. Great service, drinks and specials too!
West Voluisa
21. The Salted Goat | DeBary
One of my favorite spots! The owner has built amazing relationships with local farmers and creates a menu around seasonal, local ingredients.
They also have an amazing wine list. My advice? Eat off the top page of the menu. You will thank me and the chef later!
The outdoor patio is also fantastic for events.
22. Pepe’s Cantina | DeBary
If you’re in West Volusia and craving Mexican food, this is where you go for amazing tableside guacamole!
23. Central 28 Beer Company | DeBary
Such a fun hidden brewery in DeBary with a great space for gatherings. You can grab a pint, hang out with friends, and it’s a favorite with the local disc-golf crowd too.
24. Fire on the Bayou | DeLand
Amazing food and, even better, amazing members of our community. This is one of those local places I love supporting.
25. Riverwalk Pizzeria / Blue Springs Brewing | Orange City
This place has such a large space, making it perfect for events and meetings, and management is superb.
Even though it’s big, the sense of community makes it feel like home. And don’t forget about Blue Springs Brewing and award-winning craft brewer Tim Nowlin!
26. Lelo’s BBQ | Orange City
The perfect place to feed a large family a homemade meal in a hurry with amazing Puerto Rican cuisine.
The staff is super friendly, and the chicken is to die for!
27. DeLand Eatery & DeLand Cocktail Company | DeLand
One of my newer favorites! The chef has done wonders with The DeLand Hotel.
The menu is fabulous. You must try the Marry Me Chicken. Then head into the speakeasy-style DeLand Cocktail Company for a drink.
The atmosphere is fantastic, and you WILL get a great cocktail here.
28. Cress Restaurant | DeLand
In my opinion, Cress is the best fine dining in Volusia County.
Whether you’re having Tikka Masala, an amazing steak with the perfect red wine pairing, or perfectly steamed mussels, you’ll be glad you came. And if Suran gives you a wine recommendation, listen!
This is one of my favorite spots for date night or a special occasion.
29. Half Wall Beer House | DeLand
Eat the nachos. Drink a beer. Watch some sports.
Seriously, THE BEST NACHOS. It’s the beer cheese and chili. They perfected it. 😉
30. BakeChop | DeLand
Before heading to Café DaVinci for some amazing music, start with dinner at BakeChop.
For my vegan friends, I recommend the Vegan TLT or the Earth Bowl. And you have to try the honey mustard Brussels sprouts. Muah. Perfection.
31. Café DaVinci | DeLand
Café DaVinci is the music stop!
One of the best concerts I’ve ever been to was Bone Thugs-N-Harmony at Café DaVinci. And don’t get me started on how much fun the bartenders are.
32. Chica’s Cuban Cafe | DeLand
Chica’s has an amazing vegan menu too, especially for Sunday brunch. You have to try the tostones!
And when you’re finished, head next door to The Artisan Lounge for music, comedy and a fabulous drink.
33. Wander Bar | DeLand
For an amazing nightcap, head to Wander Bar for a true mixologist experience. They often have live music too.
34. The Elusive Grape | DeLand
DeLand’s living room!
The menu is small but delicious, the wine selection is divine, and it’s such a great place to meet friends. I love their trivia nights and live music too.
A must-visit.
35. Boston Coffeehouse | DeLand
So much more than a coffeehouse!
They have amazing sandwiches and salads, but you need to try the Chicken Velvet Soup. It’s one of my favorites.
36. Abbey Bar | DeLand
One of the most accepting, welcoming bars around. The Abbey is where you go to grab a drink and mingle with friends and family.
37. Garcia’s Mexican Grill | DeLand
This Mexican food reminds me of home in Nashville!
Amazing tacos, perfect queso dip and fresh salsa every time.
38. Pat & Toni’s Sweet Things | DeLand
What a treat! If you have a sweet tooth, they have just about anything and everything you could possibly want.
I love the Oreo Balls!
39. Mr. Bill’s Donuts & Sandwiches | DeLand
You have to follow them on social media and watch for their specials.
Strawberry Shortcake is my favorite!
40. City Wine & Cigar | DeLand
This is my local Cheers, where everybody knows your name.
Amazing wine selection, great specials, a cigar club, and an excellent patio for music and events.
Tell the staff Adrienne sent you. 😉
41. The Artisan Lounge | DeLand
You’ve got to check this place out on Sundays to see Sonny Reece!
The drinks are great, and you can even eat from Chica’s next door while you’re hanging out at the bar.
Ormond Beach
42. SoNapa Grille | Ormond Beach
Excellent food and wine, and one of three SoNapa locations in East Volusia.
Join the wine club. It’s worth it!
43. The Beach Bucket | Ormond Beach
For great ocean views and a smaller, quieter spot, The Beach Bucket is perfect. I like to come here for a nightcap after an amazing dinner at Riptides next door.
It really is tucked behind Riptides, right on the ocean, so don’t give up when you’re trying to find it!
44. The Grind Gastropub & Kona Tiki Bar | Ormond Beach
Ahi Tuna Nachos!!!
Always a great, casual time with friends here.
45. Wild Rabbit Bistro | Ormond Beach
A hidden gem right by The Casements, which makes this such a fun afternoon stop.
This is the perfect place to take your vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free or healthy-eater friends. Don’t worry though, it’s delicious!
Wild Rabbit currently describes itself as a seasonal scratch kitchen with vegetarian, vegan and plenty of gluten-free options.
46. 31 Supper Club | Ormond Beach
The atmosphere here is amazing! Check out their events and entertainment schedule because this is one of my favorite East Volusia spots when you want dinner to feel like an actual night out.
Take direction on the wine pairing, and get the lobster mac or lobster bisque with whatever you decide.
Live music and entertainment remain a major part of the 31 Supper Club experience.
47. Riptides Raw Bar & Grill | Ormond Beach
I love the seafood here! The staff and atmosphere are top-tier too.
Then, when you’re finished, head next door to The Beach Bucket for an ocean-view nightcap.
48. Hull’s Seafood | Ormond Beach
Hull’s is where I go for fresh local seafood, but this one also has a special place in my heart.
I’ve been coming here since I was a kid. My Uncle Dean and Aunt Flossie would always take us when we visited them every summer.
This one comes with memories. ❤️
49. Mario’s Restaurant | Ormond Beach
The best-kept Italian secret in Ormond.
You’ve gotta try the clams with their cheesy bread.
Daytona Beach, Daytona Beach Shores & Ponce Inlet
50. Ocean Deck Restaurant & Beach Bar | Daytona Beach
For an amazing band on Saturday night right on the beach, this is your spot!
It’s fun for the family on Sundays with karaoke too. I love that you have valet parking, you’re right on the beach, and you’re within walking distance of the Boardwalk.
Such a fun place to bring out-of-town guests for a night out!
51. Crabby’s Oceanside | Daytona Beach
Great beachside seafood dining here. I love their oysters, and they have a great outdoor bar with friendly bartenders.
The ocean views don’t hurt either!
52. Mama Foo Foo | Daytona Beach
This place has such an amazing ambiance!
It’s a great spot for a special occasion with friends or a sexy date night. The mixologists are fabulous, and the waterfront views make it even better.
53. Casualbird | Daytona Beach Shores
A great breakfast and coffee spot. Super cute and close to the beach!
54. Top of Daytona | Daytona Beach Shores
The views! The views! The views!
Have a shrimp cocktail and a great champagne here and soak it all in.
Dress to impress!
And yes, the restaurant really does have sweeping 360-degree views from the 29th floor. Top of Daytona Restaurant
55. Millie’s Restaurant | Daytona Beach Shores
Hands down, the best food in Daytona Beach Shores.
Thank me later when you’ve had the fish collars.
56. Crabby Joe’s Deck & Grill | Daytona Beach Shores
An amazing view and a local hot spot. The seafood steamers are huge and tasty, and the staff is friendly.
This is a great lunch spot any day of the week. I personally love their shrimp tacos.
And you're actually dining out over the Atlantic on Sunglow Pier.
57. Houligan’s | Daytona Beach
Hands down, the best wings I have ever had. Get them Wally-style!
The Daytona location is my favorite spot to watch football. There are TVs everywhere, and you even have your own personal TV in the booth.
This is my Sunday Ticket spot!
And we have now officially placed Houligan's in the correct section. 😆 The Daytona Speedway location is indeed built around sports viewing, and Wally Wings are one of its signatures. Houligan's Speedway
58. Aunt Catfish’s on the River | Port Orange
This is your home-cooking, comfort-food oasis, and it’s right on the Halifax!
Good Lord, save room for a cinnamon roll before you leave!
59. Off the Hook at Inlet Harbor | Ponce Inlet
Another beautiful waterfront destination with excellent seafood.
This is one of those places where the setting is just as much a part of the experience as the meal.
60. Racing’s North Turn | Ponce Inlet
NASCAR enthusiasts and locals who remember our racing history love it here.
It’s kind of hidden, but worth the hunt! The food is great, and the oceanfront views are excellent.
Bring your out-of-town guests here!
Racing's North Turn and Off the Hook both remain recognized dining destinations in the Daytona/Ponce Inlet area.
New Smyrna Beach
61. Outriggers Tiki Bar & Grille | New Smyrna Beach
Oh, the marina views and the amazing food here!
Sit outside or grab a seat at the bar. You will eat and drink well and feel like you’re in Fort Lauderdale.
One of my favorite places!
62. The Spott | New Smyrna Beach
The chef is excellent here!
Eat the steak and enjoy a glass of red. Heck, eat anything here. You will be delighted!
63. River Deck | New Smyrna Beach
For an outdoor bar with great river views and some acoustic music, this is a great spot!
64. CorkScrew Bar & Grille | New Smyrna Beach
Amazing food here. I personally love their salads and their roasted corn and shrimp chowder!
Also, a great martini here.
65. Chases on the Beach | New Smyrna Beach
What a glow-up this place has had since Hurricane Ian!
I adore the food and atmosphere now, and you can’t beat the oceanfront views. This is one of my favorite brunch spots these days.
Be patient. You’ll get a seat at the bar!
66. Third Wave Café & Wine Bar | New Smyrna Beach
The best food in NSB, in my opinion, and you can’t beat the ambiance. It’s glowy and fabulous.
Have a date here. Be patient if there’s a wait because it’s worth it. I enjoy sitting at the bar too.
Eat anything here. It’s excellent!
67. The Garlic | New Smyrna Beach
Blue Bar!
Have amazing drinks, lamb chop lollipops and listen to great music. Such a fun place for events and special occasions too.
68. JB’s Fish Camp | New Smyrna Beach
Rock shrimp crab cakes to die for!
I love coming here for the laid-back waterfront atmosphere. Grab some seafood, enjoy the view and keep an eye out for dolphins.
Quaint, casual and very Florida.
69. The Grille at Riverview | New Smyrna Beach
I have hosted so many special occasions here.
The food and drinks are classic and consistent, and the views and ambiance are excellent!
Go get a massage next door and then finish your day here. You will love it.
70. Toni & Joe’s Patio | New Smyrna Beach
Our secret breakfast spot!
Parking can be scarce, but be patient. It’s worth it for the food and oceanfront views.
Or you can park on the beach and go that way!
71. Half Wall Beer House | New Smyrna Beach
Eat the nachos. Drink a beer. Watch some sports.
Just like the DeLand location: THE BEST NACHOS.
It’s the beer cheese and chili. They perfected it. 😉
72. Bistro 424 | New Smyrna Beach
Venetian Bay has been hiding this gem!
I love their weekly specials because there’s always something new and delicious to try. And they have some of the best lasagna and meatballs ever.
Tell Sydney I sent you!
73. Merk’s Bar & Grill | New Smyrna Beach
If you want to watch sports, play some pool and have a casual good time, this is your place.
I especially love supporting owners who truly care about their community.
74. Flagler Tavern & The Bounty | New Smyrna Beach
You have to stop here if you’re on Flagler Avenue!
For an amazing Old Fashioned and a cigar, head upstairs to The Bounty, their speakeasy. For an amazing seafood tower and plenty of other great treats, stay downstairs at Flagler Tavern.
I like sitting on the deck to people-watch.
Tell Kayla Adrienne said hello!
Healthy Meal Planning
75. Beast Coast Nutrition | Central Florida-New Smyrna Beach
A must-try for healthy meal planning that is actually delicious.
When life gets busy and I’m trying to eat better without spending half my week meal prepping, this is one of my favorites.
So...Where Are We Going?
There you have it. 75 of my favorite places to eat, drink and have a good time around Central Florida.
This list will keep growing because I’m always trying somewhere new. And if you know a place I absolutely need to try, send it to me! Just know I’m going to have opinions. 😉
One of my favorite things about living here is that every area has its own personality. You can have dinner on Park Avenue in Winter Park, grab a cocktail in Downtown DeLand, eat seafood overlooking the ocean in Daytona Beach Shores, or spend an entire afternoon eating and drinking your way through New Smyrna Beach.
And that’s really what Explore Central Florida is about.
I want to share the places I actually go, the things I actually do, and the communities I know and love from living and working here.
Because choosing where to live isn’t only about bedrooms, bathrooms and square footage.
It’s about the life you get to live when you walk out the front door.
So whether you already call Central Florida home, you’re planning a visit, or you’re wondering which community might feel right for your next chapter, stick around.
There’s a lot more to explore.
And if you’re thinking about making a move in Central Florida, I’d love to help you figure out where you belong.
Adrienne Kane | REALTOR®
Real Broker LLC
Positioning Value. Delivering Results.
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