Midday Munchies: Orlando’s Best Lunchtime Eateries
If you are like me, a tasty lunch can make or break your day and that’s especially true when on vacation in Orlando. Whether you are looking for a midday break from the theme parks or a delicious afternoon outing, I am sharing the best restaurants to make that decision easy. This blog post sums up over twenty unique options around the city.
I have divided this post up by location, so you can find Orlando lunch ideas Downtown, in Winter Park, near the theme parks, and beyond. From simple sandwiches to three-course meals, this guide features 25 beloved local spots to satisfy your cravings.
Downtown Orlando
I have identified eight mouthwatering ideas for lunch restaurants around Downtown, Lake Baldwin, Thorton Park, The Mills, and that general area. These include affordable counter-service and sit-down options. All are casual and will not be too crowded if you go during the week.
1. Tamale Co. Mexican Street Food – Tamales and Tacos
For quick and satisfying Mexican cuisine, Tamale Co. Mexican Street Food has an assortment of tamales and Mexican street food to choose from. For $11 you can get a plate of two tamales, rice, and beans! Everything on the menu is gluten-free and they have vegan tamales as well.
2. Pom Pom’s Teahouse & Sandwicheria – Paninis and Salads
Locals love Pom Pom’s Teahouse and Sandwicheria for their huge menu of sandwiches. In addition to a variety of tea, you can chow down on over two dozen paninis, all for less than $13.
Favorites include the Thanksgiving sandwich, the Billy Chang, and the harvest salad for vegetarians. You can also order to go if you want to have a picnic.
3. Black Bean Deli – Classic Cuban
If you want to try the best Cuban food in Orlando, Black Bean Deli is a must-visit. They have a Cuban sandwich special for only $9 that goes until 3 PM daily. This includes a 5” Cuban sandwich, rice, and black beans and it is more than enough for a filling meal! Of course, they also have bowls, plates, and other sandwiches.
4. Dharma Southern Chick’n– Hearty Vegan Cuisine
Dharma Southern Chick’n is a comfort haven beloved by vegans and carnivores alike! I have been here many times and still can’t believe all the Southern creations they have that are also vegan. The chick’n sandwiches, BBQ jackfruit, and peach sloppy joe are all amazing dairy and meat-free dishes.
5. Reyes Mezcaleria – Traditional Mexican Food
For Mexican food in a botanical atmosphere, check out the enchiladas and empanadas of Reyes Mezcaleria. Their lunch menu has different options from the dinner menu at a reduced price. If you are in the mood for a festive feast, be sure to try their zesty tequila and mezcal cocktails.
6. Beefy King – No Frills Sandwiches
Everyone needs to try Beefy King before they can call themselves a true Orlando local. This institution I known for its giant and tasty sandwiches that cost less than $7! Do not let its humble location fool you, as there is a reason this place has been open since 1968.
7. Eola General – Bagels and Breakfast Sandwiches
One hidden gem I frequent most is Eola General. This cafe has the freshest bread and all sorts of sandwich creations. On a nice day, I love sitting outside and enjoying a lox sandwich and a cold brew, or beer if it’s a weekend! They have a variety of gluten-free and vegan choices as well, so there is something for everyone here.
8. Maxine’s On Shine – Elevated Diner Brunch
If you are in a brunch mood, Maxine’s on Shine is the crème de la crème of Downtown. You can get brunch on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday starting at 10 AM. I love trying the different eggs benedict options and always get some fried green tomatoes. Make a reservation if you can, because Maxine’s is popular!
Theme Park Area
While a theme park vacation is fun, going all day every day can be exhausting. I usually recommend people take a midday break, because this is when parks are most crowded and the hottest. Even better, you can enjoy one of these restaurants during your midday break!
9. Maple Street Biscuit Company – Counter Service Biscuit Sandwiches
My favorite place to eat after a Disney World morning is Maple Street Biscuit Company. This quick-service eatery is located in Celebration and is a less than fifteen-minute drive to the Disney World theme parks.
In addition to biscuits and fried chicken, there are also grits, eggs, and all sorts of Southern breakfast dishes. Keep in mind, that it does get very crowded on weekend mornings! But for a quick, cheap, and delicious meal, this is my top pick.
10. Mia’s Italian Kitchen – Innovative Italian
For Italian cuisine that always hits the mark, Mia’s Italian Kitchen is an authentic crowd-pleaser. Their lunch menu is similar to dinner with their excellent pizza, pasta, and Italian sandwiches.
If you come on the weekend, you can even try a bottomless brunch with all the pasta, pizza, and brunch food you can imagine! Located on I-Drive, it’s a convenient midday break location with much better food than you can get at Universal
11. The Whiskey – Burgers and Pub Grub
Over on Sand Lake, The Whiskey serves up mouthwatering burgers with an endless selection of toppings, like a bourbon poached pear and bacon burger or the pesto shroom and swiss burger. Though I would have difficulty not getting a burger, you can also dine on salads, steaks, or small plates.
12. Earl of Sandwich – Disney Springs Sandwiches
For a quick Disney World bite outside the theme parks, Earl of Sandwich is always a good idea. There are dozens of sandwiches to choose from, from a holiday turkey sandwich to a meatball sub. For $9 or less, this is by far the cheapest Disney World restaurant and it is tasty too!
13. Selam Ethiopian & Eritrean Cuisine – African Specialties
For an exotic dining experience that is hard to find in most American cities, Selam is an affordable and appetizing pick. This Ethiopian and Eritrean cafe is known for kifto, lentil samosas, and more. With most entrees under $20 and the location just minutes from Disney World, theme park goers can have an awesome midday meal outside the parks.
14. The Polite Pig – Disney Springs Barbecue
Both scrumptious and fast, The Polite Pig is a counter-service smokehouse perfect for dining mid-day. A couple can easily share a platter with the meat of their choice and a side or two for less than $30 total. They also have zesty cocktails and indoor and outdoor seating.
15. Gostoso Bakery – Brazilian Bakery
For international flavors, Gostoso offers authentic Brazillian food right on I-Drive. Here, you will find Churrasco sandwiches, burgers on a cheese bread bun, and even a mortadella pistachio cheese sandwich. If you prefer to snack instead, they also have empanadas, yucca soups, and more. Just be sure to get something for dessert because no local leaves without the Brazilian Flan and the chocolately brigadeiro
Winter Park
If you are a foodie, head to Winter Park for a delectable assortment of dining. This neighborhood features many fan favorites locals love, like The Ravenous Pig and Briar Patch, but I have highlighted some smaller picks for a unique lunch. If you want even more recommendations, be sure to check out my guide to the Top Winter Park Restaurants.
16. Winter Park Biscuit Co. – Vegan Comfort Food
Winter Park is arguably the best Orlando area for vegans, and Winter Park Biscuit Company is my go-to. This is a gem for sandwiches and comfort food, such as a Buffalo “Chick’n” Sandwich. Most meals are under $15, which makes for an affordable and meat-free lunch.
17. Pig Floyd’s Urban Barbakoa – Barbecue Fusion
Another one-of-a-kind establishment is Pig Floyd’s Urban Barbakoa. This barbecue meets Mexican, meets Asian, spot has zesty creations like Pulled Pork Banh Mi and Korean Kimcheeze Tacos. I find the bento boxes with ribs, rice & beans, and spring rolls to satisfy all my cravings!
18. Meza – Traditional Mediterranean
For food both healthy and satisfying, Meza is a delectable bistro for all. You can order classic hot and cold meza dishes like halloumi and kibbeh at cheaper prices than during dinner. There are also numerous salads, kabobs, and wraps featuring flavorful meats, fresh veggies, and an abundance of Mediterranean spices.
19. The Glass Knife – Salads and Sandwiches
Though The Glass Knife is known for its sweet desserts, the savory lunches are equally delicious. You can order a healthy choice like a salmon niçoise salad or an indulgent pimento cheese croissant. Make sure to save room for dessert if you like sweets!
20. Prato – Modern Italian
For a modern Italian meal, Prato serves up a variety of pasta, pizza, and insalata options in a stylish setting. It is practically mandatory to get an order of meatballs that will have the whole table’s mouths watering. The daytime menu is offered Wednesday through Sunday from 11:30 AM to 3 PM and has paninis that are not on the menu at dinner time.
Lake Nona, Winter Garden, and Beyond
To end this post, I wanted to mention some other excellent establishments in the Greater Orlando Area. This includes areas such as Lake Nona, Winter Garden, and Edgewood, which are outside the main city. If you want a change of scenery and are looking to escape downtown or the theme park areas, take a drive to one of these five eateries for a fantastic lunch.
21. Bosphorus – Authentic Turkish Cuisine
For Mediterranean bites, Bosphorus is one of our go-to’s. There are locations in Winter Park, Winter Garden, Lake Nona, and Dr. Phillips and there is a discounted lunch menu.
You can get the kebaps, rice pilaf, and vegetable dishes for less than $20! Andrew and I find it easy to split one of these and an appetizer for a hearty meal.
23. DaJen Eats – Caribbean Vegan Food
Foodies need to drive up to Eatonville and give DaJen Eats a try. This restaurant is known for serving amazing Caribbean food that also happens to be vegan! You can build a bowl with Jamaican rice, peas, rainbow broccoli slaw, and multiple plant-based proteins for $12.
The sides are also mouthwatering with choices like vegan jerk mac and cheese and buffalo cauliflower. Make sure to save room for dessert, as the dairy-free ice cream is not to be missed!
22. Park Pizza & Brewing Company – Pizza and Craft Beer
You can have lunch at one of the top breweries in Orlando in Lake Nona. Park Pizza & Brewing Co. not only has excellent in-house brewed beer but also awesome pizza and a fun atmosphere for the whole family! For those craving a sandwich instead, you can also get that daily, from 11 AM to 3 PM.
24. Perrotti’s New York Deli – Subs and Wraps
With so many transplants in Florida, Perrotti’s New York Deli offers a piece of home for many. This Winter Garden sandwich shop has all your favorite New York sandwiches from a Classic Italian to a Pastrami on Rye. The ingredients are super fresh and the portions are pretty big for a $7 sub. This spot beats Jersey Mikes on taste and price any day.
25. Yellow Dog Eats – Barbecue and Sandwiches
For a groovy lunch, Yellow Dog Eats has an awesome patio and barbecue food, including options for vegans. The large sammies have a unique array of toppings on them and cost between $12 to $14. With frequent live music and so many cozy nooks, it has something for everyone!
Know Before You Go
I hope this guide was able to help you choose which lunch restaurants in Orlando to grab a bite at. Regardless if you are in the mood for an indulgent feast or a quick sandwich, you can find it here! Here are some quick tips to keep in mind before dining out.
- It is customary to tip 20% at sit-down restaurants and most do not include this in the final bill unless you have a large party.
- The best way to save money when going out to eat is to go to places further from the theme parks and tourist destinations.
- The dress code is casual for most Orlando restaurants, especially during lunch.
- Most eateries in the area have free parking, with the exception of downtown and some theme park areas.
Let me know what your favorite lunch spot is! For more recommendations for eating out in Orlando, check out my neighborhood guide for restaurants in the area.
