INN & OUT: ORLANDO
We’re not talking about the parks, we’re talking about the CITY of Orlando. A bustling city with night life worthy of street shut downs, historically themed cocktail bars & recently rewarded Michelin star restaurants. Plan a trip around seeing your favorite band in the city beautiful or just make the trip across I-4 / Florida Turnpike. When you do, here are a few of our recommendations:
HOTELS
The Grand Bohemian: Located in the heart of downtown Orlando, this hotel is by far the most convenient. If you fancy fine art, this hotel is essentially a gallery. Further, their weekend jazz brunch is a hit and their rooftop pool & hot-tub is, too! The best part… if you’re a Marriott Bonvoy member this one is an Autograph Collection and can be booked with points (or earn them with your stay).
AC Hotel: Equally convenient, this brand new hotel runs in proximity to I-4 (getting you anywhere in Orlando) and Church Street. If you’re seeing a show at the Amway Center you can walk in less than 5 minutes. In addition, the Skybar on the roof provides visibility for miles to accompany your cocktail! Oh, and this is also a Marriott Bonvoy location… points galore!
Alfond Inn: Different from the aforementioned, this boutique hotel is nestled across the way from Rollins College (Florida’s first college). A cute hotel with a rooftop pool, bar and Hamiltons Kitchen (quite good, especially the brunch), but the real amenity is its proximity to downtown Winter Park and its unique shopping district with some fantastic restaurants (our favorite below).
RESTAURANTS
Prato: Arguably, our favorite restaurant in the city. You’ve never had Italian fusion quite like this as all their meals are completely unique. Further, some fun people watching as Winter Park’s best always come dressed to kill. Our go-to orders: Prato Meatballs (app), Campagna Salad, Diavolo Pizza, Mustard Spaghettini, Potato Gnocchi, Tiramisu. (they can do almost any cocktail… well)
Christner’s Steakhouse: There are many steak restaurants in every city, this is our favorite. Its family owned and very traditional (old school) with multiple family members working among your experience, you just might not know it! Although, a bit off the beaten path… the food is amazing. Be careful not to have too much bread upon arrival (despite it being some of the best you’ll ever have). Our go-to order: Bone-in Ribeye, Potatoes Au-Gratin, Crabcakes and save room for orange cake. (they do classic cocktails, classic… no pina coladas or margaritas here).
Kabooki Sushi: Also off the beaten path, yet… hands down the freshest sushi in Orlando! Their chef is James Beard nominated, nuff said. We’ve yet to have any signature cocktails or saki we didn’t like and all dishes are 100% amazing, not to mention the vibe. Our go-to order: Sticky Ribs (app), Hawaii XO
Domu: Often described as Orlando’s best restaurant… but, I hope you like Ramen! That is the specialty, however, their chicken wings are incredible as are their craft cocktails. Our go-to order: Curry Ramen (spicy), Domu Wings and a Lychee Martini.
Pig Floyds: Self-described as Urban BBQ, but to us… its a fusion of Mexican & BBQ. Enjoy brisket tacos with rice & black beans, Mexican street corn and perhaps the best ribs in the city! Bonus, this gem is located in the Mills 50 district along side some of our favorite cocktail bars and unique shops.
LIBATIONS
Mathers Social Gathering: Take a trip to Orlando, circa late 1800’s to the early 20’s with classic cocktails binging slung in one of the city’s oldest operating buildings. From the burlesque shows to its secret passageways, this place is ‘cat’s pajamas.’
Tip: Get there early, or order a social potion so you don’t have to wait long for a drink. It’s a popular spot!
The Wellborn: The same owners of Mathers, TMG, portray another aspect of Orlando’s 1940’s history with this group of buildings that have been a hotel since the start of World War II (and are today)! Grab brunch and cocktails in their courtyard… its adorable and the perfect place to day-drink / have a nice happy hour.
The Guesthouse: Love this boho vibed cocktail bar and its sister / next-door neighbor Sunroom, just look at their amazing photographers work, Erin Miller... it says it all. Whether its a golden happy hour (the lighting is amazing in there, hence the lovely plant life) or a night cap, they make some of the best classic cocktails in town. It’s all located across the street from Pig Floyds, in Orlando’s Mills 50 District (like Orlando’s Brooklyn or Wynwood?)
Fiddlers Green Irish Pub: OK, so perhaps a good old fashioned isn’t what you desire? How about Guinness, Fish & Chips and live music? OH! You’re looking for Fiddler’s Green Irish Pub where Ireland exists in Central Florida. Owned by Donal O’Brien of Cork, Ireland (so you know it has legitimate connections) you’ll get neighborhood vibes with live events.
Tip: The fish & chips are great, but so are the burgers! Find Donal and say hello, he may even buy ya a pint!
Ivanhoe Park Brewing Co: There are many great breweries in O-town but this is our very favorite. They’re dog-friendly with great events like vintage pop up shops, live music, food trucks or yoga… check their schedule to mix your passion with a great craft brew! We like the Guavacation… a thirst quenching sour for Florida summers.
Hansons Shoe Repair: If you love the historical nods from Mathers, you’ll LOVE this one. Thought to be in the oldest standing building in the city, 1883, Hanson’s is a legitimate speak-easy upstairs from Bauhaus (another great mixology bar) with no signs. You must first obtain a password by calling ahead or checking their twitter account here.
Tip: This place is great, but small… get there early (and enjoy rooftop cocktails)!
Whiskey Lou’s: OK, you waited until the end of libations… you deserve a REAL dive bar. This is Central Florida’s last bastion (for now). Up until a few months ago one could still smoke in this bar. That should be all you need to know.
SHOPPING & RETAIL
Park Avenue District: Stroll and shop down this southern time capsule of boutique shops and restaurants in Winter Park. For our fellas; pop into Current for the latest trends from some of the best world-wide and even local designers. Likewise for ladies; step into Tuni, whom have been evolving closets for 3 decades on Park Ave.
The Owls Attic: We LOVE vintage shopping and this shop almost always has gems. From the 50’s to the 90’s, one can find shirts, boots, furniture, glassware etc. in great condition! Tell Brittany we said hello, she’s pretty groovy!
Tip: When visiting Owls Attic & East End… head one block further for Park Ave CD’s (record store) and the Lovely Collection (an organized group of vintage sellers, like a market under one small roof) both also located in the Audubon District.
East End Market: Grab a unique breakfast sandwich at Farm & Haus, an AMAZING cookie from Gideons Bakehouse (people drive far and wide for this), grab your coffee at Lineage while shopping for houseplants at Porch Therapy. The best part… take the elevator upstairs for a little more local gift shopping over cocktails at The Neighbors.
Enjoy one of the most visited, yet unknown cities in the US!
By, Brian McAleer
CEO & Co-Founder
Gent Life