alirn's Profile
Recs for Mexican, Indian or Thai - Orlando
We love SEA Thai, and eat there often. It's got a great atmosphere and service, I love the food (try the scallops if they have them on special) and a very reasonable price point. It's our family's preferred birthday/celebration spot.
We get to pick a restaurant for birthday lunches at work, and this was my pick. None of my co-workers had ever tried Thai. When we left there were 8 new converts, we have been back several times since.
Any California-style Mexican (or tacos al pastor) in Orlando?
Hi, Lou,
I haven't been to this place in several years (we moved from the neighborhood) but Jalapeno's Mexican food used to have al pastor on the menu. I had it a few times and loved it. One caveat: I am a Florida girl born and bred and would not know authentic al pastor if it bit me on the butt, but it WAS seriously good food.
The place is in a slightly shady neighborhood off Oak Ridge Road. This is definitely not gussied up date night materiel. More like a good neighborhood joint. I'ts frequented by the local Mexican community which I took as a good sign of authenticity. Prices were very reasonable when we went.
If you decide to try it, post back and let me know if it is still as good. I checked and it looks like they are still in business...
Saigon Flavors, Oviedo
We just tried Saigon Flavors last night. Charlie and Lee are amazing, and so is the food and service. We had the beef wrapped in grape leaves for an appetizer along with summer rolls. Both were awesome, and the peanut sauce with the summer rolls is some of the best I've had. The beef stuffed grape leaves were new to me as a Vietnamese dish, they are grilled and the balance of flavors is perfect. All 5 rolls were gone in under 5 minutes. For entrees we had the yellow noodle & seafood soup, rice vermicelli with spring rolls, and crispy noodle combo. Everything was great, and Lee coached us on how to use the condiments in the traditional manner -- none of the Vietnamese places I've been to before have offered to do that.
We will definitely be going back, it's great to have a Vietnamese place near home.
non chain, orlando fast food
Nope, Lawless is way across town on 436 between Altamonte and Longwood. Huge and yummy subs there, family owned, nice folks.
non chain, orlando fast food
Old Dixie! Haven't been there since I moved to the north side. Good stuff.
I also second Mama B's and Lawless Subs.
Thanks for reminding me of these places.
Pars Mediterranean Cuisine
We didn't try the ice cream -- that cheesecake was too tempting. Have to go for that next time, though.
Pars Mediterranean Cuisine
Hubby and I went to this restaurant on the recommendation of a neighbor last week and enjoyed every bite of the experience. The speciality of the house is Persian kebobs. Dinner plates come with your choice of 3 types of rice (lubia polo, zereshk polo or baghali polo) and one of 4 salad choices (house, shirazi, tabuleh, hummus or stuffed grape leaves)and range from 7.95 to 16.95
I am more familiar with Greek, and the flavors here are similar, but the lubia polo rice was a new experience - cinnamon scented rice with green beans. Sounds odd, but I tried it on the chef's recommendation and am glad I did. My lamb kabob was delish, and I could have eaten a very large bowl of the shirazi salad (tomato, cuke, onion, fresh herbs and lemon) and been satisfied on that alone.
The evening chef owned a pastry shop in CA before coming here, and he produces housemade desserts you would never expect from the place. We had a lemon cheesecake that was one of the best cheesecakes I've ever had.
Atmosphere is non-existent. It's a small storefront in a strip mall betweena gas station and an industrial park. The space is cramped, with only about 5-6 tables. It used to be one of those storefront Chinese takeaway places, and the lit menu board and rear counter are still there. Tabloid TV plays from the corner all the time. It didn't bother us, we wanted a casual meal and good food and that's what we got, but you should know what to expect going in. You won't be impressed by the look of the place, but I suspect you'll like the food. We'll probably add this one to our list of places for take-out.
Pars Mediterranean Cuisine, 2960 W SR 426, Oviedo, FL 32765
Give them a try if you live in the area. I really want this place to make it -- I may be addicted to that salad :D
where is the best family run Italian restaurant in the Orlando/Kissimmee area?
Many years ago there was a place called La Forchetta that was family run. We used to go there a lot. and loved it. No idea if it is still in existence or if it remains good.
Local Seafood joints near Williamsburg, VA?
Thanks, Mama, that sounds great! Anyone else?
Local Seafood joints near Williamsburg, VA?
Greetings! My family is planning a visit to Williamsburg during the second week of August. This board has turned up a large number of great ideas for our time in and near the historic area -- thanks to all who have shared them. What recommendations do you all have for seafood joints that would be within a one hour-ish drive from Williamsburg? Proximity to a small town that is fun to explore is a plus, but not required.
We are traveling with a 13 year old boy who has an adventurous palate. Fresh, tasty and local is more important to us than atmosphere. We're looking for those little hole-in-the-wall places that do fresh seafood simply and well. The ones the locals know about and the tourists never find. Please hook us up!
Orlando Airport Vicinity - Hound Challenge
Coq au Vin on South Orange Ave. wouldn't be too far by cab, and it's one of the truly great Orlando spots. Always a winner.
NY Hound going to Orlando for New Years
In my book nothing tops Coq au Vin, but you might try the Beacon near downtown in Thornton Park. The food was imaginative and delicious and service was excellent. It can get a bit loud later in the evening. The banquettes are arranged facing floor-to-ceiling windows that let you look out on the action on the patio and the sidewalks of this trendy neighborhood.
Artist's Point - Is it romantic ?
The scenery at Artist's Point is lovely, but romantic --- well, that's tough at Disney. Lots of kids, lots of noise, and loads of folks in shorts and Mickey T shirts doesn't quite get it. If you are willing to venture outside the resort, may I suggest Manuels on 28 in downtown Orlando? Atop one of the skyscrapers, it is intimate and romantic, with great food, wine and service -- a great spot for an anniversary.
Brunch at La Coquina is reliably great. Last I went (about a year or so ago), it ran about $65 a head including champagne. Nothing else in the area can touch it for food or elegance.
