Epic Holiday Restaurant Gift Guide Orlando

Restaurant Gift Cards and Holiday Parties Make The Best Gifts. Check out this Epic List of Restaurants to celebrate holidays in Orlando!

Are you having a tough time finding the perfect gift this season? Skip buying boring gifts and gadgets that end up in the back of the closet, barely touched and forgotten. Or worse yet, returned.

This holiday season, give a gift they will actually enjoy! A Restaurant Gift!

Give the gift of fantastic food, drinks, good times and best of all – fun memories around the dinner table!

Why Give a Restaurant Gift Card?

This quote by American financial journalist and author Jean Chatzky says it best:

“Buy experiences, not things. Spending on experiences makes people happier than spending on things. Things get broken and go out of style. Experiences get better every time you talk about them.”

Everyone has a favorite restaurant they love to visit, or one they’ve been dying to check out someday. Why not help them cross that restaurant off their bucket list and #MakeSomedayHappen?

Whether you’re shopping for a work colleague, family member – from teens to grandparents – and friends, a gift card for these Orlando restaurants is guaranteed to get you on the “Nice List.” The bonus deals they are offering are just the cherry on top!

If you’re planning a holiday group outing, why not let the professionals do all the work of cooking and cleaning, and you take all the credit. That’s pretty sweet!

In this list you’ll find some of my favorite restaurants, in various price points, all around town, some big names and some local neighborhood faves, that are perfect holiday gifts this season. There’s something for everyone! High energy restaurants with fantastic food and live entertainment like Raglan Road Irish Pub, Tapa Toro and Taverna Opa. Foodie bucket list restaurants from local award-winning chefs like The Ravenous Pig and Soco Thornton Park. Celeb-Chef dining in a luxe atmosphere at Morimoto Asia. Superb seafood and cocktails at Paddlefish and Reel Fish Coastal Kitchen. Inventive sushi and robata grill in a museum-esque space at Umi Japanese Restaurant. Top of the line steakhouse experience at The Capital Grille. Plus, we can’t forget the all-time favorite foods on the planet: Pizza and Tacos! The best of the best Neapolitan Pizzas at MiDiCi and street tacos to please every foodie at Black Rooster Taqueria and Hunger Street Tacos.

Epic Holiday Restaurant Gifts in Orlando

Black Rooster Taqueria

Why Go?

Tacos! This should be reason enough but let me mention a few more. This “Farm to Taco” casual restaurant concept by Chef John Calloway has been winning awards since it opened in 2016, including the Critic’s Choice for Best Chef from Orlando Magazine. Calloway’s modern take on traditional Mexican street food using fresh local ingredients keeps taco-lovers coming back time and again. The day of the dead décor, twinkling lights, and rustic tables built from repurposed materials adds to the charm. The hand-made organic corn tortillas filled with savory proteins will transport you to the Mexican Riviera. Need more reasons? Tacos!

Go Epicurista Must Eat & Drink Picks:

^ Pick your protein – they’re all great! The Black Rooster Asada Taco with seared beef, apple wood smoked bacon, Oaxaca cheese, and pickled chile poblano is a meaty treat. The Crispy Fish Taco with Ft. Myers red grouper, pickled red cabbage and avocado is probably the best fish taco in town. Bright flavors and colors are enough to make you wish you were on a beach in Mexico. The Vegetarian Taco filled with shiitake mushrooms, onion, zucchini, epazote and crema fresca is so hearty you will not miss the beef.

^ Chunky Guacamole and chips are not to be skipped. The generous portion has the perfect consistency of fresh avocado with the right touch of spice from Serrano chiles. The sweet plantains are the best version I’ve had outside of my mother’s kitchen. Perfectly ripe plantains, fried to a charred extra crispy outside and soft gooey and sweet inside.

^ Save room for the chocolate chipotle flan. Simply yum!

^ For thirst quenchers, fresh fruit agua frescas and housemade ice coffee are out of this world. Strong and sweet organic Peruvian coffee flavored with Florida orange zest and cinnamon, like every iced coffee should be.

Gift Cards, Holiday Parties and Specials:

^ Gift Cards: For every $50 Gift Card purchase, receive a bonus $10 Gift Card. Purchase in restaurant.

^ Holiday Parties: It’s a small restaurant with only 30 seats so although not suitable for large groups unless you arrange ahead of time, they do offer catering. Email info@blackroostertaqueria.com for inquiries.

Location: 1323 North Mills Avenue, Orlando. Mills 50 District.
For more information: Visit BlackRoosterTaqueria.com and follow on Instagram.

The Capital Grille

Why Go?

This award-winning steakhouse is on every steak lover’s wish list! Known as a “power lunch” / “close the deal” restaurant, it’s equally fantastic for casual dining in the lounge, fancy date nights and special celebrations. The chain restaurant, owned by Darden which is based in Orlando, is nationally acclaimed for dry aged steaks – aged in house for 18 days, fresh seafood and an award-winning wine list. The Generous Pour and Wine and Wagyu summer promotions are not to be missed!

Go Epicurista Must Eat & Drink Picks:

^ The legendary Stoli Doli martini and classic cocktails or wines by the glass are the perfect way to start your evening in the lounge. Inquire about available wine flights.

^ The Cast Iron Garlic Shrimp with olive oil crostini, Mini Tenderloin Sliders with mushroom duxelles, Tuna Tartare stacked with avocado, mango and spicy sriracha, and Pan-fried Calamari with hot cherry peppers are my favorite starters (which can also double as meals if you want a more casual night in the lounge.)

^ Bone-In Kona Crusted Dry Aged NY Strip with shallot butter is everything you want in a steak. Veal Tomahawk Chop with Foie Gras Butter is over the top and out of this world. Lobster Mac N Cheese side dish is a meal in itself. Comfort food mixed with a generous dose of luxury.

^ You may be stuffed by the time dessert comes around but you’ll want to share bites of the Warm Double Chocolate Cake with Port Wine Infused Cherries and Ice Cream and The Capital Grille Brûlée Style Cheesecake with Fresh Berries or the gorgeous Apple Crostata.

Gift Cards, Holiday Parties and Specials:

^ Gift Cards With the purchase of a $500 (or more) gift card, receive 10% back in an additional gift card as well as a set of exclusive steak knives bearing The Capital Grille logo, presented in a custom wood box with velvet lining, perfect for every steak lover. Gift cards are available as both plastic gift cards and eGift cards, which can be personalized with a voice memo or photo. For diners feeling extra generous this year (or those splurging on themselves), get the limited edition $1,000 gift card made entirely of stainless steel. Purchase in restaurant, by calling 866-518-9113 or online.

^ Holiday Specials: The Capital Grille offers a variety of private dining options for your holiday party – from intimate parties, to lavish receptions, to business meetings. Guests can request private dining via website and a personal event coordinator will assist with creating special menus including wine pairings.

Location: Multiple locations including Mall at Millenia and International Drive.
For more information: Visit TheCapitalGrille.com and follow on Instagram

Hunger Street Tacos

Why Go?

Do you believe tacos are the perfect food? You will after you visit Hunger Street Tacos. Local Winter Park brothers David and Joseph Creech brought back their experiences living in Mexico as sons of missionaries to pay homage to the authentic Mexican Street Food they loved. Their genuine love affair with Mexico drives the rustic fast casual on Fairbanks Avenue but it’s Mexico City native Seydi, Joe’s wife, who fuels inspiration with her charm and family recipes. Captivating street art murals painted by Mexican artists and authentic flavors bring to life Mexico’s ‘La Calle del Hambre’. This family friendly joint has topped every Orlando foodie’s “best taco” list since they opened. Their daily specials are exciting to look out for (The bone marrow sells out every time!) Mondays go meatless with veggie offerings. On Taco Tuesdays, all tacos are $2.50! Wine Wednesday and Thirsty Thursday’s “Juevebes” bring beer and sangria specials to get you ready for the weekend.

Go Epicurista Must Eat & Drink Picks:

^ Tacos to Try: Vegetarian Hibiscus and guac tacos and squash blossom quesadillas surprise the taste buds of even meat-loving carnivores! Bite into the street style ‘Campechano’ taco with ‘suadero’ style slow-cooked, seared brisket, Mexican chorizo and avocado-tomatillo salsa and it’s a flavor explosion. “El Mañanero” taco is perfect for breakfast/brunch, overflowing with seared brisket, Mexican chorizo, refried beans, scrambled eggs, Chihuahua cheese, avocado salsa and lime!

^ Don’t miss the Chicharron de Queso, a giant crispy fried cheese roll and the esquites side dish of fresh corn simmered in bone marrow broth. Guaranteed “oohs and aahs” from everyone around the table.

^ Xocoflan, decadent chocolate cake and flan combo, and Cheese Flan loaded with caramel and a touch of spices, are worth every calorie.

^ The pequin-spiced strawberry sangria is a perfect thirst quencher to complete the experience.

Gift Cards, Holiday Parties and Specials:

^ Gift Cards: Now thru Christmas, buy $25 gift card and receieve a $5 card for free. Purchase in restaurant.

^ Holiday Parties: The Creech brothers started their business doing catering so although their restaurant on Fairbanks is small, they can bring the magic to you with large order deliveries as well as full service on-site catering where they do it all on site. For more information click here. Email catering@hungerstreettacos.com for booking inquiries.

Location: 2103 W Fairbanks Avenue, Winter Park.
For more information: Visit HungerStreetTacos.com or follow on Instagram.

MiDiCi

Why Go?

Their tag line is “People. That’s our passion” and what that actually means is “our passion is making people happy by feeding them killer Neapolitan pizzas, and wowing them with great service and exceptional value in a swanky cool place.” As you can see, that was too long to put on a t-shirt so they went with “People. That’s our passion.” It works. MiDiCi (which means ‘tell me’ in Italian) is a fast casual chain defying classification with a finer look and feel. High quality ingredients and décor touches spare no expense, yet prices offer a great value. Sit under the warm glow of lights adorning a live olive tree, indulge in assorted imported meat & cheese boards, creamy burrata with melon and prosciutto di San Daniele aged 18 months, and authentic Neapolitan pizza with your choice of toppings, baked in a sleek gold-tiled Acunto wood-fired oven. The vibe is chill yet vibrant. Fun EDM music pulsates without being intrusive. It feels like chic South Beach. Instead of dress to impress attire, casual is acceptable. Happy hour, Margherita Monday, KIDS EAT FREE every Tuesday Nights, and Date Night Wednesday specials are perfect for family outings, girl’s night and date night.

Go Epicurista Must Eat & Drink Picks:

^ Start with House Meat & Cheese Plate for two including black truffle cheese, parmigiano-reggiano, black truffle salami, prosciutto di San Daniele, spicy Italian salami and garnishes. Burrata with Melon & Prosciutto with wood fire toasted Neapolitan bread. Perfect shared with a bottle of wine.

^ The Marguerita Pizza classic with your choice of toppings is always a winner, the way you like it. Or go for a signature specialty, The Meats pizza with house made angus beef meatballs, rosemary cotto ham and gourmet pepperoni.

^ Salted caramel or hazelnut chocolate crunch Drowning Gelato with Italian espresso is a perfect ending – coffee and ice cream combined is a winner! Or dig into a dessert Nutella Calzone with fresh berries!

Gift Cards, Holiday Parties and Specials:

^ Gift Cards: Available in multiple denominations. Every $50 purchase receives a $10 gift card bonus. Purchase in restaurant or via the MiDiCi app.

^ Holiday Parties: Reservations for groups can be made by calling (407) 201-3824 and ask to speak with the manager or message via Facebook or Instagram. Reservations for Monday – Thursday, ask about special bonus incentive.

Location: 720 Centerview Blvd. Kissimmee
For more information: Visit MyMidici.com and follow on Instagram.

Morimoto Asia

Why Go?

“Food has the power to bring people together͟” says acclaimed Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto. His creativity and influence is on full display at his first Pan-Asian dining destination in Disney Springs, which is perfectly suited for celebrations with family, friends and colleagues. Gorgeous custom glass chandeliers, reminiscent of ocean bubbles, make the 36ft tall, two-story industrial space feel warm and inviting as diners enjoy shareable Asian specialties. Who knows? You may even see the Iron Chef behind the sushi counter or the glass enclosed kitchen during one of his frequent visits.

Go Epicurista Must Eat & Drink Picks:

^ My starters of choice include artistic sushi rolls, nigiri and sashimi with fresh fish flown in from Japan and Hawaii and fall-off-the-bone crispy pork spare ribs slathered in finger-licking-good hoisin sweet chili glaze. Always a must!

^ Indulge in Morimoto’s signature Peking duck, a carved, house-roasted whole duck, served with steamed flour pancakes, apricot sweet chili and hoisin miso, or the Japanese A5 Wagyu Beef, prepared tableside over ishiyaki grilling stone with sansho peppercorn sauce a5 is the highest quality given only to the finest certified beef.

^ Ramen is a Morimoto specialty! Duck Ramen is Chef de Cuisine’s Yuhi Fujinaga’s favorite. Enough said. The Morimoto Buri Bop with Korean style yellowtail rice bowl served in a hot clay pot finished off tableside is my recurring favorite.

^ Late Night and Happy Hour menu features perfect Asian bar bites like Beef Bulgogi nachos with wontons topped with beef short ribs, Chasu Pork Quesadilla with pulled pork braised pork belly, Menchi Katshu Sliders with Chef Morimoto’s award-winning fried hamburger slider topped with kimchi mayo, Japanese BBQ and green papaya slaw, and Blistered Shishito Peppers with wasabi crème fraîche.

^ The cocktails at Morimoto are true craft. Don’t miss seasonal specialties including many sake and Japanese whiskey cocktails and flights. The Smoked Manhattan with Junmai sake, Maker’s Mark Bourbon and ginger liqueur is a sophisticated Asian take on the classic.

^ You’ll need spoons all around as you indulge in the MM Parfait of housemade vanilla gelato, hazelnut chocolate crunchies, chocolate creampuffs and sesame mochi.

Gift Cards, Holiday Parties and Specials:

^ Gift Cards: For a limited time only, when a $100 gift card is purchased, a $20 Bonus card is provided as well. These gift cards can be purchased online or in the restaurant.

^ Holiday Parties: Request a large round with view of the glass exhibition kitchen, the secretive curtain-enclosed table of 14 in the middle of the dining room, or reserve one of four private rooms for 8 on the second floor with panoramic views of the restaurant. The second floor can accommodate large groups reception-style. Morimoto’s Forbidden Lounge features a private entrance, lounge, sushi bar, and outside patio that can be used for groups of 15-150 guests for dining al-fresco with views of the springs. For more information or to book a reservation, visit website or call (407) 939-6686. For groups of 20 or more, contact Molly Konieczny at mkonieczny@patinagroup.com or (407) 842-7123.

^ Holiday Specials: Joining the cocktail menu for a limited time only, is the Winter Wonderland Cocktail. Expertly crafted with Tito’s Vodka, Peppermint Schnapps, and Godiva White Chocolate, garnished with a candy cane and served in a glass with a sweet sugar rim.

Location: Disney Springs, Lake Buena Vista.
For more information: Visit PatinaGroup.com/Morimoto-Asia or follow on Instagram

Paddlefish

Why Go?

This is a floating Disney experience like no other. Go aboard a reimagined riverboat converted into a luxury yacht docked on the shores of Lake Buena Vista. Paddlefish is the only restaurant in Disney Springs to offer king and snow crab plus rooftop waterfront dining with live music (Friday and Saturday 9pm-midnight) and the best sunset views. Executive Chef Steve Richard serves up fresh seafood specialties and a few meaty options too.

Go Epicurista Must Eat & Drink Picks:

^ Nosh on Crab Fries topped with spicy Louie dressing, Lobster Corn Dogs with sweet chili aioli and Lobster Guacamole prepared tableside.

^ Tender scallops with brown butter, cauliflower puree, Brussels sprouts and bacon are what a scallops dish should be. Succulent and delicious! For fish lovers, try the daily special prepared in a variety of ways. My favorites are with beurre blanc or Caribbean style. Build your own seafood boil or try a specialty like The Low Country Boil with Snow crab, shrimp, and chourico.

^ Cocktails are inventive works of art. Not Everyone’s Margarita surprises with a blend of Nuestra Soledad Mezcal, El Destilador Blanco, jalapeño, Creme de Mure, and house sour. The Southern Sangria is my absolute favorite with Medley Bros. bourbon, peach liqueur, Tempranillo, and seasonal fruit. Captain Handsome (love that name) is refreshingly girly with Boyd & Blair vodka, fresh raspberries, Framboise, and fresh thyme.

^ For those with a sweet tooth, Key Lime Pie with torched meringue is a Florida classic that does not disappoint. Chocolate Bourbon Pecan Tart with candied bacon and vanilla ice cream is a Southern dream.

Gift Cards, Holiday Parties and Specials:

^ Gift Cards: Purchase a $100 gift card, receive a $25 gift card complimentary. Offer ends December 30. Purchases available in restaurant.

^ Holiday Parties: Paddlefish offers multiple unique event spaces, including their beautiful top deck, accommodating groups from 15 to 250. Custom group menus are available. Arrangements and reservations can be made by emailing paddlefishevents@levyrestaurants.com or calling 407-828-8996. Holiday parties booked on Sunday-Thursday receive a complimentary upgrade of your choice such as complimentary passed bubbles, passed hors d’oeuvres or a $250 Levy’s Gift Card.

^ Holiday Specials: Enjoy a special Christmas Day Prime Rib Eye with King Crab mash, baby carrots, red wine demi-glace for $44. On New Year’s Eve, celebrate with a Surf & Turf special of Filet, cold water Lobster Tail, Crab hollandaise, herb roasted potato for $49

Location: Disney Springs, Lake Buena Vista.
For more information: Visit PaddlefishRestaurant.com or follow on Instagram.

Raglan Road Irish Pub

For a rollicking good time that doesn’t compromise on top notch food and drinks and friendly service, Raglan Road Irish Pub in Disney Springs always satisfies. The users of Open Table, the leading online restaurant reservation provider, agree. It was recently voted one of the “Top 100 Restaurants nationwide for groups to gather and enjoy a first-rate dining experience”. It’s a true Irish pub – the owners are Irish (absolutely cool guys John Cooke and Paul Nolan), most on staff are Irish, the menu is the creation of Irish master chef Kevin Dundon, energetic live entertainment nightly and during weekend brunch includes Irish house band Raglan Roots Coalition, plus the Raglan Road Irish Dancers, and even the building itself was built in Ireland and brought piece by piece (antiqued woods from old Irish bars and churches was used.) It doesn’t get more Irish than that, unless of course you are in Ireland. There’s lots of “craic” in here! (that means “good times”)

Go Epicurista Must Eat & Drink Picks:

^ The list of my favorite starters is long! Start with An Irish Egg, Guinness & onion sausage crusted egg, with pickled cabbage and saffron aioli; The Fancy a Fishcake , smoked haddock, salmon & cod potato cake, with a soft poached egg & crispy pancetta with a lemon caper butter is divine. The Dalkey Duo of battered cocktail sausages with a Dalkey mustard dipping sauce is everything bar food should be – meaty and fried. Nom Nom Wings are sweet ‘n spicy sticky wings tossed in a honey, chili flake, soy & ginger sauce. The Scallop Forest with Georges Bank scallops in a golden batter served with citrus lime dipping sauce & chili jam is also fun to share. The Rack of Heaven, slow roasted Guinness glazed full rack of baby back ribs is also perfect for sharing or you can have it all to yourself.

^ You won’t find a better boar burger anywhere! The Boaring Burger is served with Cashel blue cheese, crispy onion strings, arugula, port & pear chutney with herb aioli served on a floury potato bun. You will not believe this is pub food when you order the Gnocchi Sea Gnocchi Do handmade potato gnocchi, seared Georges bank scallops, crispy pork belly, tomatoes & kale in a white wine butter sauce.

^ For dessert, you’ll want to try them all so why not get the flight of minis. Take in the Dunbrody Kiss, Chef Dundon’s gift to America made of chocolate and more chocolate. Ger’s Bread & Butter Pudding is out of this world! The Trifle and Pavlova are refined and indulgent.

^ To quench your thirst you may go for a pint of Guiness but you don’t want to miss Raglan Road Signature Brews. Crafted locally in collaboration with Raglan Road, they are a true representation of Ireland and Central Florida in one. The flight includes your choice of Miriam’s Irish Coffee Stout (Coppertail Brewing Co), Bloomsday Pale Ale (Orange Blossom Brewing), Tri Wishes Grand Irish Red Ale (Crooked Can Brewing), Planted Strawberry & Lime Hard Cider (Keel & Curley Winery) and Blagger Organic Blonde Larger.

^ Cocktails are every bit as creative. PJ’s Poison is the most refreshing marriage of a gin tonic and a screwdriver taken to the next level. Gunpowder Irish Gin, muddled orange, rhubarb bitters, lemon juice, orange whiskey marmalade & fever tree tonic with an orange twist. The Iced Irish with Paddy’s Irish Whiskey, butterscotch schnapps and Baileys salted caramel with iced coffee is Ireland’s answer to Starbucks and a great dessert alternative!

Gift Cards, Holiday Parties and Specials:

^ Gift Cards: The Raglan Road gift card is available in the restaurant gift shop in denominations from $10-to-$500. They also have lots of popular merchandise on sale with an additional discount. Purchases also available online where you may purchase electronic gift cards as well as standard cards to be shipped to the recipient.

^ Holiday parties: Raglan Road offers various settings for group dining as well as banquet menus to suit every appetite, accommodating groups from 20 to 1,000. Arrangements and reservations can be made by emailing Cathy Quinn at cquinn@raglanroad.com or calling 407-938-0300. Get ready for true Irish hospitality!

^ Holiday Specials: Enjoy a special Christmas Day menu of Herb Roasted Turkey with all the trimmings including smoked bacon Brussels sprouts, duck fat roasted potatoes, apple, sage stuffing and mashed potatoes for $27.95. The full restaurant menu is also available if turkey is not to your fancy.

Location: Disney Springs, Lake Buena Vista.
For more information: Visit RaglanRoad.com and follow on Instagram.

The Ravenous Pig

Why Go?

One restaurant guaranteed to be on every Central Florida foodie bucket list is The Ravenous Pig. Everyone raves about their trend-setting mixology program, their house-made craft brews and their swine-centric locally sourced menu by Chef/owners James & Julie Petrakis. Their multiple James Beard Foundation Award nominations for Best Chef South is testament of the recognition this talented husband and wife team has earned, even beyond Central Florida. It’s a culinary experience not to be missed in Orlando. The hype, the awards and the glowing reviews are all justified and they keep introducing new menu items on a regular basis to keep us coming back time and time again.

Go Epicurista Must Eat & Drink Picks:

^ The Housemade Charcuterie is one of the best Charc boards in town. It changes daily with such items as country terrine, sage sausage, lomo, prosciutto coppa, chicken liver mousse, steak tartare crostini, and black strap salumi. It’s not all meats here, the Gatherer Salad is one of the prettiest salads with baby greens, avocado, pickled beets, radish, goat cheese, pistachio granola, and herb vinaigrette

^ Shrimp and Grits with Cape Canaveral shrimp, Anson Mills grits, green tomato chutney, and chorizo oil is legendary. Steak Frites with porcini marinated Harris Ranch NY strip, truffle fries, and steak sauce is simple and fantastic.

^ For dessert, don’t miss the Pig Tails, an original dessert that has never left the menu. Everyone loves warm cinnamon-sugar tossed fritters with chocolate espresso sauce.

^ Cask & Larder craft brewery on site gives you plenty of choices for craft beers on rotation. Cocktails on tap to try are the Gin & Tonic and Aperol Spritz. The Ravenous Pig Old Fashioned with bacon infused old forester bourbon, vanilla maple, and orange bitters is an epic modern version of the classic.

^ The Happy Hour menu from 4p-6p includes Korean Chicken Sandwich, raw oysters and Rock Shrimp Tacos for a great foodie outing with friends. Sunday brunch’s Avocado Toast and Sourdough French Toast creations change frequently but are always satisfying paired with a house Bloody Mary.

Gift Cards, Holiday Parties and Specials:

^ Gift Cards: Thru January 7, buy a gift card and The Ravenous Pig will throw in a little extra. Buy $100, Get $20 Free. Buy $200, Get $50 Free. Buy $500, Get $150 Free. Buy $1,000, Get $350 Free. Gift cards available at ravenousvip.com and in restaurant.

^ Holiday Parties: The dining room or brewery can be transformed to create the perfect setting for private events, whether you are looking to host a large party up to 150 guests or celebrate with a small group of friends. A unique multi-course menu or the Whole Cookery Feast can be arranged. More info on group dining visit website

^ Holiday Specials: On Christmas Eve, in addition to a full a la carte menu, The Ravenous Pig will serve a 3 course Holiday Sunday Supper for $50 per person (minimum 2 people). The menu includes Sunchoke Soup with crispy oysters, truffles, and house made sourdough bread with salted goat’s milk butter, Smoked Prime Rib with root vegetables and rogue smoked blue gratin with creamed collard greens and Chef’s Dessert. Reservations can be made on or via phone at 407.628.2333

Location:565 West Fairbanks Ave, Winter Park.
For more information: TheRavenousPig.com and follow on Instagram.

Reel Fish Coastal Kitchen

Why Go?

Key West beach bar meets Winter Park chic in this laid-back, fish camp-inspired hangout celebrating Florida’s sustainable seafood and Southern comfort classics. Fantastic Happy Hour Tuesday-Friday from 4pm-7pm includes oysters, fish and shrimp tacos, burger and chicken sliders plus $5 specialty cocktails including a great sangria and more. Guests rave about Saturday and Sunday brunch from 11am-3pm with BOGO brunch cocktail with entrée. Perfect Southern hospitality.

Go Epicurista Must Eat & Drink Picks:

^ Dig into chunky smoked rainbow trout dip, fresh daily ceviche, and raw or baked oysters to start.

^ The whole fried fish, and Fish Camp Classics with hush puppies and tangy coleslaw is exactly what you expect from a restaurant paying homage to coastal cuisine. Fresh, messy and delicious. The blackboard specials of fresh-caught species like tilefish, sheepshead, wreckfish, lionfish and more, creatively prepared by chef Mike Hufler, are rarely found in other inland restaurants.

^ House-made white chocolate peach bread pudding is the perfect ending, like a warm hug, to your meal.

^ Mayport shrimp avocado toast with poached egg is a brunch favorite paired with Reel Bloody Mary.

^ Sunset Sangria with a soaked apricot is a refreshing sipper. Espresso martinis can sub for dessert after your meal.

Gift Cards, Holiday Parties and Specials:

^ Gift Cards: For every $50 gift card purchase by 12/15/17, receive $10 reward card. Purchase in restaurant.

^ Holiday Parties: Book your holiday party of 15 guests or more, before 12/31/17, and receive 10% off. Plus, every guest receives a $10 reward card! Contact Sean at 407-543-3474 or sean@reelfishcoastal.com

^ Holiday Specials: Restaurant will be hosting a special “Feast of the Seven Fishes Dinner” on Christmas Eve.

Location: 1234 N. Orange Avenue, Winter Park.
For more information: Visit ReelFishCoastal.com and follow on Instagram

Soco Thornton Park

Why Go?

Soco’s name is homage to Chef Greg Richie’s “Southern Contemporary” cuisine. Everything about this Thornton Park neighborhood restaurant is truly about Southern Hospitality. His adventurous creativity taking classics and adding his own spin is what locals love. From his “Taco Tuesday” take on Southern style tacos of perfectly crisp, juicy buttermilk-battered fried chicken breast, wrapped in a warm reinvented buttermilk biscuit fashioned as a tortilla is brilliant. His gourmet TV Dinner Thursday offerings are nothing like those aluminum trays we grew up with but every bit as nostalgic. Sit in the main dining room and watch the chefs at work through the floor to ceiling window into the kitchen, sit at the bar and watch the bartenders do their magic with an extensive selection of bourbons and whiskeys or sit in the patio and watch the world go by as you take a minute to slow down and enjoy. The semi-private room next to the kitchen is perfect for parties with a home dining room feel and behind the scenes action. Saturday and Sunday Brunch has been voted the best by Orlando Sentinel Foodie Awards. Soco Sundays start at 11am with an award-winning Brunch featuring bottomless mimosas, Happy Hour is from 3pm – 6pm, and then you can finish your weekend with a Southern-style Sunday Supper.

Go Epicurista Must Eat & Drink Picks:

^ Start with Soco-Style “Chicken and Dumplings” of Chicken Breast, Lobster Dumplings and soy butter and Slow-Roasted Barbecue-Glazed Pork Belly Biscuits with
Jalapeño Jelly.

^ Grilled Meatloaf on Lobster Mashed Potatoes with Smoked Vidalia and Andouille Sausage Gravy is pure comfort food. Chicken-Fried Cauliflower “Steak” with Asparagus, Artichoke, over Garlic Mashed Potatoes, Vine Ripe Tomato Gravy is one of the best vegetarian dishes in the city! Lake Meadow Naturals Korean-Style Fried Chicken with Pickled Radishes, Benne Seeds, Sweet and Spicy Sauce is addictive.

^ Cocktails to whet your whistle include the Manhattan-ish with Elijah Craig 12 yr. and Grown-Up Cherry Cola with Flor de Caña 4 yr. Rum, Cola Simple, Whiskey Soaked Cherry, and Barrel Aged Bitters. Their selection of brown spirits is impressive.

^ Cap off your meal with Bourbon Banana Pudding, Caramelized Apple Bread Pudding with Butterscotch Ice Cream and “Moon Pie” Pie with Potato Chip Graham Cracker Crust, Toasted Marshmallow, and Peanut Brittle. Sinful!

^ For Brunch, dig into Lobster Eggs Benedict and Summer Peach Stuffed Brioche French Toast with Whiskey Maple Syrup.

Gift Cards, Holiday Parties and Specials:

^ Gift Cards: For a limited time, buy $100 and receive a $20 gift certificate. Available for purchase in the restaurant as well as via phone.

^ Holiday Parties: For group reservations, call the restaurant at 407-849-1800 or email Andre Matta at andre@socothorntonpark.com. The semi-private barrel room accommodates up to 22 guests. Several prix-fixe menu options are available.

^ Holiday Specials: Enjoy seasonal dessert specialties like Gingerbread Bread Pudding, Peppermint-White Chocolate Cheesecake, Homemade Hot Cocoa and Fresh Baked Cookies, and Holiday Flavored House Churned Ice Creams.

Location: 629 E Central Blvd, Orlando.
For more information: SocoThorntonPark.com and follow on Instagram.

Tapa Toro

Why Go?

A night in Spain is closer than you think as Chef Wendy Lopez wows your taste buds with classic and contemporary Spanish cuisine while flamenco dancers entertain nightly in a sultry and dynamic atmosphere at Tapa Toro. Sip on cocktails at the bar, share Paella family style at the 12 seat paella pit, check out the artwork (some it comes ‘alive’) and get up and dance if you feel like it. Located at I-Drive 360, you can plan a ride on the Orlando Eye before or after your visit. Happy Hour from 3pm – 6pm each day includes a fantastic rose sparkling sangria as well as white or red varieties. Owners husband-and-wife duo Vassilis and Katerina Coumbaros have created two of the best dining experiences on I-Drive and in Orlando.

Go Epicurista Must Eat & Drink Picks:

^ The traditional paella with imported Calasparra rice and vegetables can be enjoyed as a vegetarian dish, with or without seafood, chicken and lamb. Watching the chef prepare it is a treat!

^ Charcuterie board, Imported Jamon Iberico de Bellota , Mussels with Chorizo, Patatas Bravas, Shishito Peppers with sausage, Garlic Shrimp, Ham Croquettes, Pork Belly, Spanish Frittata, and Tomato-Rubbed Bread are some of my favorite tapas to start. Groups of 4 or more can order family style menus that include many of these favorites.

^ Inquire about Chef Wendy’s specials. I’ve enjoyed a fantastic Grilled Salmon and Smoked Brisket which exploded with flavor.

^ For dessert, don’t skip the orange scented Crema Catalana and churros with chocolate and dulce de leche dipping sauces. Yumtastic!

Gift Cards, Holiday Parties and Specials:

^ Gift Cards: Purchase in denominations of $20 – $250 in restaurant or online here where you can purchase email certificates or physical cards to be mailed out.

^ Holiday Parties: Tapa Toro offers a variety of group menus for groups of 4 to 270. Whether you are looking to host a large party or celebrate with a group of friends, the 5,000-square-foot space, outdoor patio, and four private dining rooms can give guests an unforgettable experience. Contact Taylor via email taylor@opatoro.com and click for more information.

^ Holiday Specials: On Christmas Day, dig into all you can eat paella or dine from the many options on the menu. Click here for more details.

Location: 8441 International Dr #260, I-Dr 360 Complex , Orlando.
For more information: TapaToro.com and follow on Instagram.

Taverna Opa

Why Go?

The season is primed for fun family feasts and this Pointe Orlando Mediterranean eatery serves a nightly celebration of colossal proportions. Share a family-style, varied multi-course menu of meats and seafoods. As you dine, international dance beats inspire the young and young at heart to join in the traditional Zorba dance or step atop the wooden tables with the beautiful belly dancer, while a snowfall of napkins flutters in the air. Don’t be fooled by Opa’s themed kitsch and festive atmosphere, owners Katerina and Vassillis Coumbaros are serious about providing high quality traditional Greek and Mediterranean dining with fresh ingredients. This is a taste of Greece!

Go Epicurista Must Eat & Drink Picks:

^ Start with garlicky hummus made tableside, so popular over 40,000 pounds of chickpeas are used per year! The Meze Appetizer Platters of housemade Tzatziki, Tarama, Melitzanosalata, Dolmades, Olives, Spanakopitas, and Greek Meatballs are fun to share.

^ Saganaki brandy-flamed tableside cheese is a show-stopper! Platters of calamari, garlic shrimp, sea scallops and mussels with ouzo bring those coastal flavors to life.

^ Tender lamb chops marinated in herbs and Greek oil for 36 hours, plenty of grilled meats, seafood and a variety of kebabs with lemon garlic potatoes and spinach rice.

^ End the night with sweet sticky baklava and don’t forget the ouzo. It’s not a party until ouzo flows!

Gift Cards, Holiday Parties and Specials:

^ Gift Cards: Purchase in denominations of $20 – $250 in restaurant or online where you can get email certificates or physical cards mailed out.

^ Holiday Parties: Multiple event spaces including private room and outdoor patio and a variety of group menus including family style feasts. Live DJ and entertainment and AV capabilities available. Call 407-351-8660 or for more information visit website.

^ Holiday Specials: Celebrate Christmas OPA style with family-style menu for 4 on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day for $28 per person. Menu includes Cold and Hot Meze Appetizers: Hummus, Tzatziki and Dolmades presented with Pita Bread, Horiatiki “Traditional Greek Salad”, Spanakopita “Spinach Pie,” Keftedes “Greek Meatballs” and Crispy Calamari. Meat Platter of Chicken Brochette, Beef Tenderloin Brochette, Pork Loin and Lamb Chops presented with yiayia’s veggies & lemon potatoes. For dessert, a Variety Platter may be added for an additional $5 per person. Live entertainment, DJ and lots of dancing included as well. Regular menu also available. For more info click here.

Location:9101 International Drive, Suite Number: 2240, 2nd Level of Pointe Orlando, Orlando.
For more information: visit OpaOrlando.com and follow on Instagram.

UMI Japanese Restaurant

Why Go?

In the heart of Winter Park, on the south end of Park Avenue, you will find a charming intimate Japanese Fusion restaurant and some of the best sushi in the area. Umi, the Japanese word for ocean, showcases inventive sushi rolls and robata style grilled meats and seafood with Japanese, Korean and European flavors with an extensive menu from Head Sushi Chef John Park and Executive Chef Tim Guiness. Owners Susie and Francois Lorin spent 30 years traveling the world with an antiques business before embarking on this culinary experience so be sure to check out the museum-like art throughout the space. Sommelier Blake Cain shares his knowledge of wine and sake with a collection 90+ points rated wines. His Happy Hour sake sangria is a winner paired with $6 sushi rolls, Monday through Thursday 5:00pm – 6:30pm.

Go Epicurista Must Eat & Drink Picks:

^ From a long list of creative signature sushi rolls with housemade sauces, some of my favorites include Spicy Jalapeño Shrimp with a spicy mayo drizzle and kobachi sauce, and the Surf & Turf Roll with Robata-grilled lobster tail and tempura shishito pepper topped with a layer of yuzu ponzu marinated A4 Wagyu beef. The Mango Tango with coconut shrimp, crab, cucumber, fresh mango, topped with coconut shavings, sweet yuzu mango sauce, eel sauce offers a thrilling sweet and savory combo.

^ The Mini Chirashi Bowl with a variety of fresh sashimi is a fantastic lunch option Monday- Fridays or as an appetizer.

^ Don’t miss the chef’s weekly specialty roll, which debuts every Wednesday.

^ Desserts are surprising from a matcha panna cotta to my new favorite Crème brûlée with gorgeous caramel crust.

Gift Cards, Holiday Parties and Specials:

^ Gift Cards: May be purchased in restaurant.

^ Holiday Parties: To book your group reservation, call 407-960-3993.

Location: 525 S. Park Avenue, Winter Park.
For more information: visit UmiWinterPark.com and follow on Instagram.

HERE’S A BIG SURPRISE!

EPIC 12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS GIVEAWAYS

To kick off the month of December, I’m excited to share my Epic 12 Days of Christmas Giveaways where you can enter to win gift cards to each of these fabulous restaurants. All you need to do is follow @GoEpicurista on Instagram, check the posts daily and follow the easy prompts to enter to win. One winner will be selected daily!

Also join me on Facebook Live each day November 30 – December 12 at 2:00pm to learn more about each restaurant giveaway. I will be sharing fun tips and tricks to make your holiday entertaining and gift giving easy.

Don’t miss this EPIC 12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS DINING GIVEAWAYS!

Cheers!

Go Epicurista

Disclosure: This post is part of My Epic 12 Days of Christmas Giveaways sponsored campaign. Restaurants featured were selected and invited by Go Epicurista to participate. All opinions are my own, and as always I only share with you products and businesses that I love to inspire you to go #MakeSomedayHappen one delicious bite, sip and trip at a time. To learn more about my guidelines, click here for my full Disclosure policy.