If you’ve been following Flamingo In Fantasyland, (as you should) you know I’m always on a mission to find the best Orlando restaurants—from the “Real Orlando” to the hottest global dining destinations.
While everyone is talking about what’s opening in 2026, let’s be real—some of us are still dreaming about the dishes that defined 2025. These 10 spots didn’t just trend; they changed the way we eat in Orlando. If you haven’t been yet, you’re officially behind!
Best Orlando Restaurants of 2025
2025 was a massive year for the Orlando food scene. Did you know, Orlando ranked #4 in Trip Advisors “Best of the Best” foodie destinations in the U.S.?! I’m not surprised, we have some amazing chef’s and restaurants.
And did you know Orlando landed its first-ever Two-Michelin-Star restaurant?! With the culinary landscape shifting towards intimate, chef-driven tasting menus and high-end global street food, it’s no wonder Orlando is receiving much deserved buzz.
Let’s get into what I found to be the 10 best restaurants that defined 2025 in Orlando:
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- Sorekara (Baldwin Park) The absolute star of the year. Chef William Shen’s high-concept Japanese restaurant became the first in Orlando to earn two Michelin stars. It’s an immersive, 4-hour multi-room journey that highlights Japan’s 72 micro-seasons. $$$$ The 2026 Update: Still the most coveted reservation in Central Florida. To RESERVE.
- Kaya (Mills 50) One of my personal favorites and a cultural phenomenon. Not only did it earn a Michelin Green Star for sustainability, but it also ranked #10 in the entire U.S. on Yelp’s Top 100 list for 2025! This modern Filipino bungalow is all about soul and community. If you haven’t been you should make some plans! The 2026 Update: Kaya has become the heart of the Mills 50 community. In 2026, they’ve expanded their garden seating, making it the best spot in town for a tropical outdoor dinner that actually feels like a vacation.
- Ômo by Jônt (Winter Park) A 2025 newcomer that immediately secured a Michelin Star. Led by celebrated Chef Ryan Ratino, this intimate spot blends French technique with pristine Japanese ingredients.
- June (Thornton Park) Voted by local critics as the Best New Restaurant of 2025. It brought a moody, upscale vibe to Thornton Park with a gluten free, no seed oils, minimal refined sugars, menu focused on sophisticated “New World” flavors and live-fire cooking. The 2026 Update: Stop by the new “The Rug Room” for cocktails on Thursday, Friday, and Saturdays from 6pm, no reservations needed.
- Zaru (Mills 50) The place that made udon “cool.” This Bib Gourmand recipient uses flour imported from Japan’s Kagawa Prefecture. It’s a masterclass in how a simple noodle shop can be one of the best dining experiences in the city. The 2026 Update: While the lines are still long, the 2026 “secret” is to visit on a Tuesday afternoon. They’ve also added a seasonal “Cold Udon” flight this year that is perfect for the Florida heat.
- Capa (Four Seasons Resort) Maintaining its Michelin Star for the fourth year, Capa remains the gold standard for hotel dining. Pro Tip: Being on the 17th-floor gives views of the Disney fireworks, that paired with world-class Spanish steakhouse tapas are unbeatable!
- Smokemade Meats + Eats (Curry Ford West) The breakout BBQ star of 2025. After years as a popular pop-up, its brick-and-mortar opening earned an immediate Michelin Bib Gourmand for its “Central Texas-style” brisket and scratch-made sides. The Mac & Cheese was one of my favorites bites of 2025! The 2026 Update: They recently upgraded their smoker capacity to keep up with the 2026 crowds! You can now order for “pickup” on their website—perfect for a fancy tailgate before a game or concert.
- Victoria & Albert’s (Grand Floridian) The “Crown Jewel” of Florida fine dining. In 2025, it continued to dominate the luxury space, holding its Michelin Star and receiving top honors from Wine Spectator for its legendary cellar.
- Coro (Audubon Park) A neighborhood gem that feels like a hidden secret. It earned a 2025 Bib Gourmand for its creative, shared-plates menu (don’t skip the whipped chicken skin butter!).
- Soseki Modern Omakase (Winter Park) Still at the top of its game, Soseki remains a “hardest-to-get” reservation. Its 2025 menus continued to push boundaries, blending Florida’s local produce with world-class seafood.
The 2025 “Honorable Mention”!
Palm Beach Meats took the crown for the Best Burger in Orlando according to local enthusiasts. This is no ordinary burger! This market-meets-eatery specializes in Wagyu beef and was the unofficial “cool kid” hangout of the year. I got something completely unexpected, their Wagyu pastrami sandwich, and it did not disappoint!They even have Wagyu hotdogs; which I will get on my next visit!
These were just “some” of the best Orlando restaurants of 2025, but certainly not all of them! Orlando continues to bring the flavor and the fun. It’s not just a tourist destination anymore! It’s full of rich diversity and offers something for everyone. If you are looking for more “things to do in Orlando” read my Orlando Guide, and start exploring the “City Beautiful”!
Ready to start planning your 2026 eats? (Blog post coming soon!) With so many amazing restaurants coming to Orlando, you really should start your planning now!
And be on the lookout for my “Best Espresso Martini’s in Orlando”….I’m doing a deep dive into this caffeinated concoction!
Want to make your own Espresso Martnini’s at home? I found the best set to make them yourself!
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