While millions visit Orlando for its attractions, locals know the city’s true character lives in its diners.
These establishments serve theme park employees, medical workers, and multi-generation Florida families, maintaining traditions that predate the tourism boom.
Christo’s Cafe
Operating since 1969, Christo’s combines Greek and Southern diner traditions.
Their country fried steak comes hand-breaded with house-made pepper gravy.
The kitchen prepares grits from scratch throughout the morning using Florida-milled corn.
Their breakfast potatoes include green peppers from local farms.
Linda’s Winter Park Diner
Established in 1972, Linda’s maintains its original counter and booth setup.
Their signature breakfast includes thick-cut bacon from a Florida smokehouse and house-made corned beef hash.
The kitchen produces fresh biscuits hourly using White Lily flour.
Their pancakes measure 12 inches across, made with local dairy products.
Nick’s Family Diner
A fixture since 1985, Nick’s serves traditional diner fare with Florida influences.
Their menu features Cuban bread French toast and traditional eggs Benedict.
The kitchen prepares three varieties of home fries, including their spicy version with datil peppers.
Their breakfast meat selection includes house-made sausage patties.
Johnny’s Fillin’ Station
Though known for lunch, Johnny’s operates as a traditional breakfast diner.
Their menu includes hand-breaded chicken biscuits and scratch-made sausage gravy.
The kitchen produces fresh cornbread throughout the day. Their breakfast platters feature eggs from Florida farms.
Shakers American Cafe
Operating since 1993, Shakers maintains classic diner standards.
Their breakfast combinations include house-cured corned beef hash and fresh-squeezed Florida orange juice.
The kitchen makes three varieties of pancake batter daily, including a signature orange-vanilla version.
Their grits come loaded with regional cheddar cheese.
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