THORNTON PARK

Walkable from the city center, this homey neighborhood is situated around Lake Eola and home to a vast collection of brunch joints. You can’t go wrong with the mimosas and flavorful dishes at The Stubborn Mule or a Philly cheesesteak from Cavo’s Bar & Kitchen, known for some of the best sports bar grub in town. 

BALDWIN PARK

There are a few gems tucked within this highly manicured residential community. One of the most in-demand tables is at Camille, a French and Vietnamese fine dining experience that has already earned a Michelin star, despite being open less than a year. Or, for a cozy spot to chat and sip vino, grab a seat at Golden Hour Wine, an all-natural wine shop and bar.

MILK DISTRICT

Named after the T.G. Lee Dairy factory located in the area since 1925, the Milk District is a burgeoning conglomerate of trendy breweries and restaurants. Two personal favorites include Otto’s High Dive, a rum bar with Cuban bites, chic tropical decor and Instagram-able cocktails, and Stasio’s Italian Deli & Market, which arguably makes Orlando’s best Italian sub. 

IVANHOE VILLAGE

Known for its mix of indie antique shops and gift stores like Washburn Imports, Dora Mae Jewelry and Yay! Tiny Shop, Ivanhoe Village offers plenty of places to satiate your inner foodie. The Pinery is an airy, Florida-inspired kitchen, while Gnarly Barley is a go-to for craft beers, sandwiches and beer cheese, of course. 

HOURGLASS DISTRICT

This stretch south of Orlando is home to Pizza Bruno, a Neapolitan-style pie shop with mouthwatering pizza, garlic knots worthy of the pungent breath that follows and a surprisingly delicious kale salad. A more upscale palate pleaser is Papa Llama, a Peruvian eatery with a set dinner menu that begs to be paired with their selection of natural wines.

AUDUBON PARK

No Orlando food roundup is complete without Audubon Park and Domu. Located inside East End Market, a food hall and retail hot spot, this ramen bar has been impressing noodles snobs for eight years. Top off the night with a scoop of Kelly’s Homemade Ice Cream across the street. Try the cookie monster flavor, and you may or may not thank me later. 

COLLEGE PARK

One of the city’s oldest areas, College Park has a Main-Street-U.S.A. feel thanks to its central drag and an abundance of local shops and eateries. For an old-world Italian meal, head to Adriatico Trattoria Italiana, known for its fresh pasta and seafood. Or, for a tasty, low-cal bite, Infusion Tea, serves loose-leaf teas and vegetarian fare. 

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