Orlando Food Tours & More
I’ve always been a huge fan of exploring Orlando’s diverse culinary scene, and I’m excited to share some of my favorite experiences with you. Food tours in Orlando are a great way to sample the city’s unique offerings, with locals guiding you through the best hidden gem restaurants, craft breweries, wineries, and more. Whether you’re a foodie searching for new flavors or simply looking to immerse yourself in Central Florida’s culture, I believe these culinary adventures will satisfy your appetite.
One of my go-to food experiences is joining Orlando food tours led by locals—who better to show you the city’s best kept secrets than those in the know? Craft brewery experiences in Orlando are another favorite of mine, as the city boasts an ever-evolving craft beer scene that’s both diverse and flavorful. You can even find brewery tours that showcase exceptional local brews and offer insights into the brewing process.
If you’re looking for a more refined experience, Orlando winery tours and tastings are a delightful way to spend an afternoon, sampling remarkable wines from the region. And for a truly magical encounter, cooking classes with Disney chefs will add a dash of enchantment to your culinary journey. Lastly, don’t miss out on the speakeasy experiences in Orlando, where you can step back in time and sip on exquisite cocktails in hidden, Prohibition-style bars.
Exploring Orlando Food Tours with Locals
Orlando is a city known for its bustling theme parks, but it also offers a rich and diverse food culture. Joining a food tour with locals is a fantastic way to experience the city’s culinary delights. In this section, I’ll explore some of the unique food tour experiences in Orlando, focusing on the Mills 50, Ivanhoe Village, and hidden gem restaurants.
Savoring Snacks in Mills 50
Mills 50 is an eclectic and vibrant food destination, offering a variety of snacks and dishes from various cultures. Exploring the area on a food tour with locals allows you to get personalized and tailored recommendations based on their experiences.
- Vietnamese and Thai Street Food: Enjoy the authentic flavors of bánh mì, pho, and pad thai from local favorites.
- Latin American Delights: Savor empanadas, arepas, and traditional Caribbean dishes from family-owned eateries.
- Dessert Time: Indulge in handmade ice cream, bubble tea, and gourmet donuts to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Culinary Adventures in Ivanhoe Village
Ivanhoe Village is a charming historic district, making it an ideal setting for a food tour. Its diverse culinary offerings include upscale bistros, cozy cafes, and innovative gastronomy.
- Local Craft Breweries: Experience the thriving craft beer scene by visiting breweries and sampling their unique creations. Some popular options include the Orlando Brewing and Ivanhoe Park Brewing Company.
- Farm-to-Table Dining: Enjoy a farm-to-table concept meal at popular restaurants such as The Strand and The Hammered Lamb, where fresh ingredients are sourced locally.
- Sip and Stroll: Join a wine walk event to explore the district’s numerous wine bars and savor their top selections.
Hidden Gem Restaurants
Orlando is also home to many under-the-radar eateries, offering exquisite cuisines and unique dining experiences.
- Global Fusion: Tantalize your taste buds with international cuisines like Ethiopian, Peruvian, and Brazilian at hidden gems like Selam Ethiopian & Eritrean Cuisine, A La Cart Street Food & Craft Beer, and Black Rooster Taqueria.
- Food Truck Scene: Discover a selection of creative and mouth-watering dishes from Orlando’s thriving food truck scene. Options include Sushi & Seoul on the Roll and The Crepe Company.
- Exceptional Ambiance: Delight in visually and gastronomically pleasing dishes at Le Café de Paris, a charming bistro, or Santiago’s Bodega, an atmospheric tapas bar.
By joining a food tour with locals, I’ve had the opportunity to explore Orlando’s fantastic food culture while making new friends along the way. From casual street eats to elegant dining experiences, the city offers an unforgettable culinary journey for anyone willing to embark on a tasty adventure.
Craft Brewery Experiences in Orlando
Orlando is increasingly becoming popular for its thriving craft beer scene. If you are visiting the city or even a local, you should definitely explore what the local breweries have to offer. In this section, we will cover some of the best craft brewery experiences in Orlando – including Ten10 Brewing Company, The Barley Row Craft Beer Walking Tour, and a special subsection on other local breweries and tasting sessions.
Ten10 Brewing Company Highlights
Ten10 Brewing Company is one of my favorite craft breweries in Orlando. Located in the heart of the city, it offers a great selection of beers that caters to everyone’s tastes. I particularly enjoy their Killa Vanilla Porter and the uniquely named Drinkin’ Beer, which shows the creativity of their brewing process. Make sure to try the Blu Beary IPA and Peachy Keen Saison while you’re there as well.
- Address: 1010 Virginia Dr, Orlando, FL 32803, USA
- Phone: (407) 930-8993
- Hours: Mon-Thu 4 pm-10 pm, Fri-Sat 12 pm-12 am, Sun 12 pm-10 pm
The Barley Row Craft Beer Walking Tour
One of the best ways to explore the Orlando beer scene is by joining the Barley Row Craft Beer Walking Tour. This guided tour takes you to some of the city’s best breweries, where you can taste a variety of locally produced beers, gain insights into the brewing process, and learn about the city’s craft beer culture. The walking tour starts at the Ten10 Brewing Company and covers breweries such as Ivanhoe Park Brewing Company, which is known for its unique brews and vibrant atmosphere.
Local Breweries and Tasting Sessions
Orlando has numerous other local breweries that you should explore on your craft beer journey. Some noteworthy options include:
- Ellipsis Brewing: Located near Orlando International Airport, this warehouse-sized brewery offers a great atmosphere and a diverse selection of beers on tap. More details here.
- Deviant Wolfe Brewing: With a focus on sour beers, this brewery located in Sanford is perfect for those looking for something different. They also offer a variety of other styles if sours aren’t your preference. Check them out here.
In addition to visiting the breweries themselves, you can also attend various beer tasting sessions offered around the city. These sessions give you the opportunity to try a variety of locally produced beers, expand your palate, and learn more about the brewing process. Just make sure to plan your itinerary accordingly and have a designated driver or take advantage of the local transport options so you can enjoy your brewery experiences safely.
Orlando Winery Tours and Tastings
Guide to Orlando’s Finest Wineries
When I’m in Orlando, I love exploring the various winery tours and tastings it has to offer. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or a newcomer, these tours provide a unique experience for everyone. I’ve found that some of the best wineries in the area offer guided tours, allowing you to learn about their history, and discover the art of wine making firsthand.
The Art of Wine Making
Orlando’s wineries are known for their expertise in the wine-making process. During my tours, I’ve had the pleasure of seeing how grapes are meticulously harvested, crushed, and fermented to create a variety of flavors. I’ve also learned about the techniques used to age wine, such as aging in oak barrels, which enhance certain characteristics of the alcoholic beverages. The attention to detail demonstrated by the dedicated winemakers has truly been inspiring to me.
Sample the Best with a Local Guide
One aspect that makes Orlando winery tours exceptional is the local guides who accompany you. Their knowledge of the wineries, the beer making process, and the history of the region adds depth to the tastings. I especially enjoy the personalized recommendations they provide based on individual preferences.
To help make the most of my winery tours, I often plan ahead by:
- Researching wineries in the area
- Booking a tour with a knowledgeable guide
- Arranging for a driver if needed
These steps ensure that I can relax and fully appreciate the incredible wines and experiences Orlando has to offer.
Cooking Classes with Disney Chefs
Experience the Magic in the Kitchen
One of the most memorable experiences I’ve had during my visit to Orlando was taking a cooking class with a Disney chef. Not only did I get a chance to learn some fantastic cooking techniques, but it also allowed me to immerse myself in the magical world of Disney’s culinary arts.
There are a few wonderful options for cooking classes near Disney World, such as Gourmet Magic Cooking School and Pinch of Thyme. These top-rated classes provide hands-on guidance and instructions from experienced chefs, some of whom have worked for Disney.
In these classes, I had the opportunity to prepare and enjoy a variety of dishes, sampling both classic Disney-inspired plates as well as meals that seemed to be straight out of fairytales. The incredible part was that I was the one making them!
Disney Culinary Workshops
If you’re looking for something more formal and specific to Disney, the Cooking with Soul at Walt Disney World Resort event offers a unique opportunity for guests. These workshops are designed to showcase the talents and expertise of Disney chefs, and allow you to experience the magic firsthand.
During my time at the workshop, I learned how to prepare a three-course meal, which I then had the pleasure of eating. The workshop included demonstrations as well as tips and tricks from the chef. It was truly inspiring to see how a Disney chef brings magic to life in the kitchen.
Here is a breakdown of the typical workshop format:
- Introduction and welcome from the Disney chef
- Demonstration of the first course
- Hands-on experience: Participants prepare the first course
- Chef demonstrates the main dish
- Hands-on experience: Participants prepare the main dish
- Chef demonstrates the dessert
- Hands-on experience: Participants prepare the dessert
- The best part – enjoying the meal!
If you’re a passionate food lover or interested in enhancing your culinary skills, I highly recommend trying one of these unforgettable Disney-inspired cooking classes during your visit to Orlando. Have fun and let the magic guide you in the kitchen!
Speakeasy Experiences in Orlando
As a lover of hidden gem restaurants and unique experiences, I was thrilled to discover the speakeasy scene in Orlando. These hidden bars and secret venues offer a one-of-a-kind experience, complete with Prohibition-era cocktails and intriguing tales from the past.
Hidden Bars and Secret Venues
During my exploration of Orlando’s speakeadies, I stumbled upon some truly captivating hidden bars, such as The BANDBOX in Ivanhoe Village Main Street district1. This spirit-free speakeasy serves non-alcoholic craft cocktails, aperitifs, beer, wine, and a variety of elixirs and leisure sodas. It’s perfect for those who enjoy an art deco-inspired atmosphere and a unique twist on the typical bar scene.
Another hidden gem I discovered is The Courtesy2, a cozy, intimate venue located in downtown Orlando. The skilled bartenders here can whip up a variety of classic and innovative cocktails that transport you back to the Prohibition era.
Prohibition-Era Cocktails & Tales
I’ve always been fascinated by the history of the Prohibition era, and these speakeasies offered a chance to experience it firsthand. At places like Hanson’s Shoe Repair3, you’ll need a password to enter this intimate space, much like during the Prohibition. The atmospheric setting and well-crafted cocktails made me feel as though I’d stepped back in time. Plus, the friendly bartenders are always eager to share stories and history about the original use of the location – an actual shoe repair shop.
Another great spot for Prohibition-era drinks and tales is Mathers Social Gathering4, housed in a restored historic building with an elegant, vintage-inspired ambiance. Here, you can relax on plush leather furniture while sipping on expertly crafted libations and listening to tales of Orlando’s past.
While exploring speakeasy experiences in Orlando, don’t forget to factor in gratuities and transportation costs in your budget. From my experience, it’s worth every penny to explore these hidden gems and immerse yourself in a unique aspect of Orlando’s culture and history.
Footnotes
Practical Information
Booking and Cancellation Policy
When I plan to take a food tour or experience in Orlando, it’s essential for me to understand the booking and cancellation policies. Most tour companies, like Around Orlando Tours, offer the option to book online or by phone. It’s wise to book in advance, as popular experiences such as craft brewery visits and winery tastings often fill up quickly.
Now, life can be unpredictable, so knowing the cancellation policy is important. Many tour companies offer a free cancellation policy if I cancel within a specific window, usually 24-48 hours prior to the tour. However, some tours may have stricter cancellation policies, which could result in no refunds. Be sure to thoroughly read the terms and conditions when booking to avoid any surprises.
Accessibility and Transportation Options
Orlando is a city that strives to be inclusive, and many tour experiences, such as food tours and winery tastings, are wheelchair accessible. However, it’s recommended to inquire about accessibility when booking, as not all venues may be fully accessible.
Regarding transportation, some tours provide transportation services, while others may require me to arrange for my own transit. For self-guided tours, I can use rideshare services, taxis, or even public transportation to navigate through the city. To make sure I have a smooth experience, it’s best to review transportation options before embarking on my tour.
Understanding Tour Costs
When browsing tours and experiences, I find it helpful to keep in mind what’s included in the cost. Most tours offer an admission ticket that covers the guided tour and food or drink samples, but some may have additional costs for extra tastings or purchases. Be aware of any additional fees, and don’t hesitate to ask questions about what’s included in the price.
Another consideration is the ratings given by fellow travelers. Reading reviews gives me an idea of whether the tour is worth the investment and helps to ensure that I’m making the right choice for my interests and preferences. With so many amazing and unique experiences in Orlando, I look forward to exploring the city’s culinary, brewery, and winery scene!
Orlando Brewery Districts and Picks
Breweries in Winter Garden
When I went to Winter Garden, I visited the Crooked Can Brewing Company located in the Plant Street Market. Its laid-back atmosphere was perfect for hanging out with friends, and I enjoyed their wide range of craft beers. They offer a fantastic walking tour too, which includes complimentary snacks while you learn about their brewing process.
Winter Park’s Brewing Scenes
During my visit in Winter Park, I discovered an impressive brewing scene. The most notable one was the Ivanhoe Park Brewing Company, located in a beautiful area. I appreciated not only their beer selection but also the inviting atmosphere and friendly staff. While in Winter Park, don’t miss the Orange County Brewers and the Hourglass Brewing on Orlando Avenue (“The Golden Mile”). They offer a range of delicious local brews to sample.
Explore Brookhaven Drive
Brookhaven Drive is a hidden gem for beer lovers, with a cluster of breweries that showcase Orlando’s diverse brewing talents. Here are some of the breweries I’ve had the opportunity to explore:
- Rockpit Brewing: Known for its craft beers and homebrew shop
- Broken Strings Brewery: Incorporates unique and bold ingredients in their beers
- Tactical Brewing Co: Offers a military-inspired atmosphere and a great selection of beers
I recommend visiting these breweries on a self-guided tour around Brookhaven Drive to experience the vibrant local craft beer scene.