Orlando, Florida, famous for its theme parks and sunny skies, is also home to a thriving culinary scene where family-owned restaurants capture the essence of tradition and innovation.
These eateries offer warm hospitality and dishes crafted with love, making every dining experience memorable. Here are the five best family-owned restaurants in Orlando that you absolutely must try.
4 Rivers Smokehouse
4 Rivers Smokehouse has become an Orlando icon, renowned for its mouthwatering barbecue and Southern hospitality.
Start with the Smoked Brisket, perfectly seasoned and slow-cooked until tender, served with a side of tangy pickles.
Their Burnt Ends Sandwich, featuring caramelized edges of brisket, topped with crispy onions and drizzled with bold barbecue sauce, is a must-try.
End with the Banana Dream Pudding, a creamy and nostalgic dessert layered with vanilla wafers and fresh bananas.
The Ravenous Pig
The Ravenous Pig offers a gastropub experience blending contemporary American cuisine with Southern charm, all set in a stylish and inviting atmosphere.
Begin with the Lobster Tacos, featuring tender lobster meat, a zesty avocado crema, and fresh salsa, all wrapped in soft tortillas.
Their Shrimp & Grits, with plump Gulf shrimp, creamy cheese grits, and a smoky andouille sausage sauce, is a standout choice.
Finish with the Pig Tails, warm cinnamon-sugar doughnuts served with a luscious chocolate espresso sauce for dipping.
Se7en Bites
Se7en Bites is a cozy bakery and café serving Southern comfort food and scratch-made sweets in a welcoming setting.
Start with the Chicken Pot Pie, a hearty and savory pie filled with tender chicken, vegetables, and a rich gravy, all encased in a flaky crust.
Their Buttermilk Biscuits & Sausage Gravy, featuring fluffy biscuits smothered in creamy sausage gravy, is a breakfast favorite.
Don’t miss the Salted Caramel Dark Chocolate Pecan Pie Bar for dessert, a sweet and salty treat that’s simply irresistible.
Linda’s La Cantina Steakhouse
Linda’s La Cantina Steakhouse has been a family-run staple in Orlando since 1947, offering premium steaks and classic sides in a retro ambiance.
Begin with the Escargots, tender snails baked in a garlicky herb butter, providing a flavorful start to your meal.
Their Signature Ribeye, cooked to perfection and served with a side of au gratin potatoes, is the type of hearty entrée that has kept customers returning for generations.
Finish with the Classic New York Cheesecake, creamy and rich, served with a drizzle of raspberry sauce for a delightful ending.
Santiago’s Bodega
Santiago’s Bodega provides a vibrant dining atmosphere with a menu full of eclectic, globally-inspired tapas perfect for sharing.
Start with the Beef Carpaccio, thinly sliced and topped with capers, arugula, Parmesan, and a drizzle of truffle oil.
Their Lamb Lollipops, grilled to a juicy tenderness and served with a tangy mint chimichurri, are a crowd favorite.
Finish with the Bread Pudding, warm and spiced, served with a decadent bourbon caramel sauce for a sweet conclusion.
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