Looking to experience innovative cocktails and tasty bites in beautiful settings? I have 3 ‘Must-Do’ Mills 50 bars for you! We’re gonna stay in the Mills 50 District for these adventures. If you’re not familiar, The Mills 50 District in Orlando, is a vibrant, eclectic neighborhood that’s a melting pot of cultures, cuisines, and creativity. I love it! Known for its unique blend of Asian markets, eclectic eateries, and hipster hangouts, this area is a foodie’s paradise. But it’s not just about the food; Mills 50 is also home to some of the city’s most innovative cocktail bars. Here are three hot spots that offer not only beautiful surroundings but also fabulous cocktails and delicious bites!
First up: The Moderne
The Moderne is located at 1241 E. Colonial Dr., Orlando. This Mills 50 bar is a stunning spot and very popular with the locals, and it’s no wonder why. With its Asian inspired tapas and flamboyant and brazen cocktails, you are sure to be delighted! Open daily at 5:00. Happy hour is Sunday-Thursday 5-6:30 and 11pm-close.
If you’re wanting a table, be sure to grab a reservation! Click here to see what’s available. Parking is also available around back, as well as on-street parking.
Next up: Bites & Bubbles
Bites & Bubbles is located at 1618 N. Mills Ave., Orlando.
This contemporary Mills 50 American restaurant is full of delectable food and delicious cocktails. (Open Tues.-Saturday at 5:00.) On a cooler Florida night, I recommend the outdoor seating, just lovely! Their elevated menu is full of delights: Caviar, Foie Gras, and an array of cheeses to name just a few….the menu does change daily fyi. Click here to see the daily menu and make reservations!
The parking situation was very crowded. We parked in the lot next door, which also serves several other nearby locations. We had to circle many times to grab a spot. There is an un-gated parking garage nearby that can be used. We’ll try there next time!
Last stop: Death in the Afternoon
This new kid in town recently opened at 930 N. Mills Ave., Orlando. Death in the Afternoon’s name comes from the Ernest Hemingway created cocktail (Death in the Afternoon), made with Absinthe and Champagne. Of course, that’s on the menu! You may already be familiar with the owner’s other bars (Suffering Bastard tiki bar and the former beloved Bitters & Brass, both in Sanford). This new concept is a cozy neighborhood bar, specializing in Absinthe and has some tantalizing cocktails for the adventurous! (And the not-so-adventurous!) They also have some bites….French and Spanish influenced. Yum!
Don’t let Absinthe scare you…this green spirit that is comprised of green anise, sweet fennel, and grande wormwood, gives it its distinct licorice flavor. You may think you’re not a fan, but give them a chance, they do have quite a few selections to choose from. I went with a less intense flavored Absinthe; Kubler.
They also have a full bar, as well a beautiful menu of craft cocktails (with and without Absinthe). One of the best drinks I had was called ‘Arsenic and Old Lace’. Sounds delish, right?! No really, it was exceptional! It’s a classic martini with violet liqueur and a dash of Absinthe. I would go back just to have that again. The food is nothing to sleep on either. We had a very tasty Boursin cheese dip and a Jamon pasty filled with deliciousness!
If you plan on checking them out, tables are reservation only, but walk-ins are always welcome! Hours: Tues-Sunday 5-midnight. Click to make a reservation. I’m not sure if they have parking around back?…we parked on the street, right out front. If you know, feel free to leave me a comment.
The Mills 50 bar and restaurant seen is full of fabulous places to try. So, if you’re in the Mills 50 area, you should put these spots on your list! Have a place you love?! Leave me a comment below and let me know! From dive bars to taco stands….I love them all, so go ahead and share with me!
Looking for more Orlando bars? Check out my experience at Otto’s High Dive!
Thanks for reading!
Xo Autumn