By Kate Cohen

We are all for staying on International Drive.

Nowhere else in Orlando is more convenient to the theme parks, outlet malls, and other exciting attractions The City Beautiful has to offer.

But if you want to experience Orlando like a local, you’ll probably need to venture outside of the International Drive District.

Three wooden tables with a red booth seat set with menus, silverware, and wine glasses.

In this series, we’ll be exploring some of the best hidden gems and local favorites throughout Orlando.

We all love the familiarity of a good chain restaurant. But when you want to eat like a local, you’ve got to step outside your comfort zone.

If you’re ready for a true taste of Central Florida, here’s an insight to some restaurant hidden gems in Orlando that locals love.

Key Takeaways

DOMU
Boxi Park
The Stubborn Mule
Ava MediterrAegean
Santiago’s Bodega
Linda’s La Cantina
Prato
The Glass Knife
Maxine’s On Shine
The Ravenous Pig
Agave Azul
Live like a Local, Feel like a Guest of Honor

DOMU

An overhead view of a hand holding chopsticks over a bowl of ramen and a table surrounded by delicious menu items.

DOMU is one of the most critically awarded restaurants in Orlando. In 2025, they received their fourth consecutive Michelin Bib Gourmand.

You may recognize their incredible hand-made ramen, crispy wings coated in kimchi butter, and seasonal cocktails from their appearance on the Netflix show Somebody Feed Phil.

Located in East End Market in the charming and trendy area of Audubon Park, DOMU is the crowning jewel of the marketplace.

They don’t take reservations, and the lines can get pretty long, so arrive early and be prepared to wait for a table. Don’t worry, it’s worth it.

Boxi Park

Not sure what you’re craving? Boxi Park might be the perfect spot.

This outdoor marketplace has a variety of shipping-container-turned-food-counters serving up fresh lobster rolls, fried chicken, street tacos, and more.

Grab a picnic table and treat yourself to a refreshing drink, like a margarita from La Cajita.

A large, covered stage area hosts frequent live performances as well as trivia events and fun seasonal celebrations.

Its Lake Nona location has an upscale casual vibe that’s perfect for a night out on the town.

The Stubborn Mule

If you’re looking for a great restaurant in the heart of Downtown Orlando, The Stubborn Mule is a local favorite.

With a name that pays homage to its signature cocktails (unique imaginings of the Moscow Mule), it’s the perfect spot for a great drink and a delicious meal.

The menu is packed with incredible burgers, sandwiches, salads, and entrées with something to satisfy every appetite.

Surrounded by a sprawling outdoor patio, you can sit outside for relaxed urban vibes or dine indoors for a cooler, more rustic experience.

AVA MediterrAegean

A rustic dining area with stucco walls, wooden furniture, and large green plants.

Winter Park is known for its upscale shopping and dining and AVA MediterrAegean is no exception.

This modern Greek restaurant in the heart of Park Avenue is meticulously decorated to transport you to an upscale Mediterranean environment.

Enjoy cuisine that infuses flavorful and colorful ingredients into multisensory dishes that delight every palate.

Whether you dine indoors or on their outdoor patio, your experience at AVA MediterrAegean is sure to be a treat.

Santiago’s Bodega

With roots in Key West, Santiago’s Bodega brings a taste of Spanish tapas to Orlando.

With small plates intended for sharing, each tapas dish is packed with unique global flavors for a true culinary journey.

Its dining room is decorated with custom art, mismatched chairs, and quirky design touches that all lend a welcoming warmth to the restaurant.

The outdoor patio is the perfect place to enjoy a pitcher of house-made sangria or a glass of Spanish wine.

Linda’s La Cantina

A true Orlando hidden gem is Linda’s La Cantina, an old-fashioned steakhouse with plenty of character.

They’ve been searing specialty steaks since 1947 and are still a Central Florida go-to for prime house aged beef.

From the checkered tablecloths to the vintage-inspired décor, you’ll feel like you’re stepping back in time to a simpler era where great food and good company reign supreme.

Prato

Another Winter Park classic on Park Ave is Prato, known for its Italian-inspired menu that blends modern techniques and seasonal ingredients.

Rustic elements, a contemporary design, and an indoor/outdoor feel make this a unique and desirable destination for a special meal.

Their pizza and pastas are simplistic and sensational, packed with fresh ingredients that add color and flavor.

Pair your meal with a local beer, a glass of Italian wine, or a specialty cocktail for an extra special touch.

The Glass Knife

A beautiful pistachio green tart with a ribbon of icing decorated with candy flowers, gold leaf, and raspberries.

Locals with a sweet tooth have a sweet spot for The Glass Knife.

This vintage-inspired bakery/bistro is as photogenic as its confections, which are works of art in their own right.

Elegant cakes, eye-catching desserts and pastries, and decadent donuts line the glass cases at The Glass Knife.

If you’re in the mood for something savory, try a sandwich or salad from the breakfast or lunch menu.

Don’t forget to enjoy your order with a house-made coffee, glass of wine, or beer.

Keep your eyes open for their second location on Park Ave in Winter Park, coming soon!

Maxine’s on Shine

Tucked into a quiet neighborhood near Downtown Orlando, Maxine’s on Shine is a local favorite.

The recipient of many local awards, this quirky, sultry, and colorful restaurant is a popular hotspot.

Their menu boasts delights like Key West crab cakes, lobster stuffed ravioli, and an indulgent duck confit cassoulet, among many other delightful dishes.

With no children under age 7 admitted after 7 p.m., it’s also a great spot for a late night date night.

The Ravenous Pig

The Ravenous Pig is an upscale gastropub and brewery in Winter Park that should be on every foodie’s must-try list.

This chic restaurant is known for its exceptional charcuterie and carnivorous entrées, including black trumpet dusted scallops, steak frites, and pork schnitzel.

But with a menu that changes every day to adapt to the best, freshest ingredients available, you never know what culinary treasures may await.

On a beautiful Orlando evening, there’s nothing better than pulling up a table in the Beer Garden and enjoying one of their 18 house-brewed beers on tap.

Agave Azul

Craving Mexican? While there are plenty of fantastic Mexican restaurants in Orlando, one consistent local favorite (with several locations) is Agave Azul.

Browse an expansive menu of Mexican classics full of familiar dishes like street tacos, fajitas, carne asada, burritos, and chimichangas.

Everything is made with fresh ingredients and inspired by traditional Mexican flavors.

Agave Azul is also known for their exceptional margaritas, like the Rico Suave made with Pueblo Viejo Blanco tequila, crushed watermelon, agave, and lime.

Live like a Local, Feel like a Guest of Honor

A large pool surrounded by an elegant hotel building, palm trees, umbrellas, and lounge chairs at Rosen Centre.

When you stay at Rosen Centre, you’ll always be a special guest.

If you’re looking to try an Orlando hidden gem in one of the city’s vibrant neighborhoods, Rosen Centre is a great central location to call home base.

And, if you’re looking to dine a little closer to your home-away-from-home, check out our onsite restaurants like Everglades and Harry’s Poolside Bar & Grill.

Stay tuned to learn all about our next hidden gems in Orlando!