Best of the Best 2024
Well, we’ve done it again. We spent the past 12 months scouring the Central Florida area for the finest things we could find. From unforgettable food and blissful spa treatments to lively activities and impressive retail shops, our annual Best of the Best is a celebration of all that Greater Orlando has to offer. This year’s roundup is full of places that are certainly worthy of the spotlight, but we’ve also included readers’ picks as well. Read on to find out where you should be visiting next.
Cloudhop Bakeshop
FOOD AND DRINK
SIGNATURE COCKTAILS
Bellhop
Vintage vibes and modern mixology combine to make this unique cocktail bar a place to visit time and time again. We love the whimsical takes on the classics, like the Prohibition-era Bee’s Knees made with award-winning Barr Hill gin and garnished with homemade meringue cookies.
TIKI BAR
Permanent Vacation
The eclectic décor only adds to the experience as you sip on mai tais, banana daiquiris or whatever special concoction the bartenders have conjured up. Reservations are recommended, and for good reason. After all, a (permanent) vacation takes some advance planning.
MEDITERRANEAN
Mediterranean Deli
The distinct flavors of the Mediterranean are on full display at this casual spot where the gyros, falafel and kebabs reign supreme, but so too does the dynamite spinach pie and can’t-miss baklava.
CHEESECAKE
Bakery 1908
All of the cheesecakes served up at Bakery 1908 are wonderful, from the classic New York-style to beloved flavors like lemon or strawberry. But the star of the show is easily the sublime Japanese cheesecake: light, airy and creamy without being overly sweet.
PASTRIES
Buttermilk Bakery
The menu at Buttermilk changes frequently, which means you never know what tantalizing tarts, sweet and savory croissants, grand galettes or other mind-bending sweet treats await you. And honestly, that’s the best part.
CAKES
Butter Bliss Bakeshop
All of the cakes here proudly feature three layers of cake and two layers of filling and are made incredibly moist thanks to a vanilla milk soak. If that doesn’t sound enticing enough, standout flavors like maple cinnamon and strawberry champagne should do the trick.
PO BOYS
Tibby’s New Orleans Kitchen
With more than a dozen po boys on the menu, there’s no shortage of options to satisfy your craving for The Big Easy staple. The pork chop and fried shrimp selections are rightfully fan favorites, but the mouthwatering fried green tomatoes and crawfish is always a winner in our book.
CREAM PUFFS
Light on Sugar
The cream puffs at this bakeshop are massive and come in a number of scintillating options that eschew far from your run-of-the-mill vanilla and chocolate. We’re talking cookies and cream, matcha white chocolate, ube cheesecake and an array of specialties that playfully push the boundaries.
EMPANADAS
Alma Argentina
With a whole section on the menu dedicated to these pleasing pockets, you’ll find traditional chicken and beef varieties alongside stellar selections
the caprese, ossobucco or pizza. In the mood for something sweet? Try the dulce de leche, you won’t be disappointed.
SALADS
Greens and Grille
Each one of G&G’s creations, from the Cali Cobb to the Southwest, are evidence that salads don’t need to be boring. Now’s the perfect time to chow down on The Fall—spring mix with sweet peas, grilled onions, beets, roasted potatoes, goat cheese and dressed with a sherry-thyme vinaigrette.
GARLIC KNOTS
Pizza Bruno
It’s easy to understand why these oversized delights have a bit of a cult following. With a slightly crisp exterior giving way to the doughy inside, they are then drizzled with butter before being absolutely smothered with garlic and pecorino. If you know, you know.
BUTCHER SHOP
Petty’s Meats
Petty’s is the place to visit for high-quality cuts of beef, homemade sausage, fresh seafood and any number of other high-quality ingredients. And the expert butchers not only know how to slice and dice, they can offer suggestions to make sure your next meal is one to remember.
ITALIAN ICE
Jeremiah’s Italian Ice
From popular choices like cherry, lemon and cotton candy to bolder alternatives like sea salted caramel, horchata and cookie butter, Jeremiah’s serves up more than 40 different flavors. Mix and match or blend with soft-serve ice cream and adjuncts like sprinkles, cookie pieces and more.
KOREAN BARBECUE
Shin Jung Korean BBQ
A Michelin-recommended restaurant, Shin Jung shines bright in Orlando’s dining scene. And there’s no better way to visit than with a group, selecting bulogi, short rib, chicken or anything else that catches your eye and then grilling it right at the table for all to enjoy.
CUBAN
Black Bean Deli
Not only does this café offer one of the best Cuban sandwiches you’ll find this side of Havana, but the rest of the menu is full of authentic tastes of the region, from the picadillo or the roasted chicken with garlic mojo, to the sweet plantains and robust cups of coffee.
BAO BUNS
Hawkers Asian Street Food
Each carefully created bao bun here takes you on a culinary journey of flavor, showcasing top-notch ingredients like five-spice hand-pulled duck with black vinegar hoison; pork belly with pickled mustard greens, peanuts and brown sugar; or the deep-fried chicken thighs that have been brined for 24 hours and sauced in a fiery garlic gochujang.
REUBEN
The Pastrami Project
This food truck has gained quite a buzz thanks to its made-from-scratch pastrami that has attracted locals and Guy Fieri alike. And its dynamite taste is only enhanced when combined with grilled sauerkraut, Swiss cheese and Russian dressing, all slid in between thick slices of homemade rye bread.
BREAKFAST SANDWICHES
Deli Desires
What better reason to rise and shine than to sink your teeth into a latke with egg, cheese and bacon on a sesame seed bun? Well, what about the scrapple with egg and caramelized onions on a smoked jalapeño and Muenster bialy? We could go on, but we think you get the point.
SEAFOOD MARKET
Bar Harbor Seafood
This market has it all, from lobsters, shrimp and crabs ready for takeout to a lunch counter where you’ll find superb lobster rolls, clam chowder, fried seafood platters, yellowfin tuna wraps and the must-have lobster empanadas with chimichurri.
VEGAN OPTIONS
Winter Park Biscuit Company
Even non-vegans will tell you this place needs to be on your radar. The crispy chik cutlet rivals any you’ve ever had and the kale Caesar salad with toasted pumpkin seeds is also another hallowed menu item. Oh yeah, don’t overlook the biscuits, they didn’t make it their namesake for just any old reason.
COFFEE
Lineage Coffee Roasting
With aspirations of becoming the highest-quality coffee roaster in the world, Lineage is serious about their coffee. Their three locations offer specialty coffee—sourced from Guatemala, Columbia and Ethiopia—in addition to brewing guides, courses, catering and subscription services.
POKE BOWLS
Poke Hana
With a highly customizable bowl featuring ahi tuna, fried tofu, hula chicken and more, it’s easy to create the perfect bowl your taste buds will love. Inside, their relaxed atmosphere is decked out with tropical decor—an homage to poke’s Hawaiian heritage.
SMOOTHIES
New Moon Market
Believing that food is medicine, New Moon Market aims to meet each customer’s needs with their fresh, organic menu. Get a dose of nutrients with their antioxidant boost smoothie or a bolt of energy with their cheeky brew offering.
CHOCOLATES
AJ Chocolate House
Since its foundation in 2002 in Vilnius, Lithuania, AJ Chocolate House has been providing and perfecting indulgent Belgian couverture chocolate. Now their flagship Winter Park shop features a retail store, all-day cafe, and wine and chocolate pairing opportunities.
GRILLED CHEESES
La Femme Du Fromage
Here grilled cheese is more than a nostalgic trip back to your childhood; it’s a flavor experience. With 10 sandwich options—including truffle mac, egg and cheese, classic and more—it’s impossible to go wrong.
DOUGHNUTS
Parlor Doughnuts
This growing chain that originated in Indiana opened its first Orlando location earlier this year, and its signature layered doughnuts—with flavors like bourbon caramel and turtle cheesecake—have been an instant hit with locals.
COOKIES
Cloudhop Bakeshop
Among the concoctions at this bakery where creativity flourishes is the Cookie Inception, which mixes vanilla dough with chocolate cookie crumbles to hide a whole other chocolate cookie at its center. A two-for-one special has never been so sweet.
PIZZA
Black Magic Pizza
This is no ordinary pizzeria pumping out as many pies as possible in an assembly line. Quality takes precedence over quantity, which leads to elevated selections like the Hornets Nest, featuring a standard base of red sauce and fresh mozzarella topped with soppressata, basil and hot honey.
WINGS
Flyers Wings & Grill
Wings might be the unofficial snack of football season, but cravings can strike at any time of the year, and when they do, Flyers has it covered. Take flight with their crispy, tender wings that come in a range of sauces, including parmesan garlic, lemon pepper and suicide x-tra hot.
MEATBALL SANDWICHES
Stasio’s Italian Deli & Market
Like your grandmother or your favorite aunt, the folks at Stasio’s are eager to feed you, and this signature sandwich is a prime example. It comes loaded with homemade meatballs, cheese and sauce on a roll baked fresh on the premises.
FLATBREADS
The Stubborn Mule
Perfectly paired with one of The Stubborn Mule’s craft cocktails or draft beers, these flatbreads are standouts on a menu that is sourced locally. The options include prosciutto, barbecue pork, primavera and southwest chicken.
BAKERY
Sister Honey’s
Awards are nothing new for owner Evette Rahman, who has been recognized both locally and nationally and has been featured on the Food Network. One look at her dessert case and it’s easy to see why: the array of pies, cakes, cookies and pastries is simply tantalizing.
CHICKEN NOODLE SOUP
TooJay’s Deli
Whether you’re battling the sniffles or just need something warm on the rare cooler days in Orlando, this gourmet deli with locations across the state can fix what ails you with a made-from-scratch soup overflowing with chicken and veggies.
CHEESESTEAKS
Cavo’s Bar & Kitchen
This Thornton Park sports bar just celebrated its fifth anniversary, and with a Northeast-inspired menu—including a heavy Philly influence—it’s no surprise that it’s become the area’s go-to spot for a cheesesteak. Just like in the City of Brotherly Love, they pack thinly sliced ribeye, sauteed onions and white American cheese into a “hoagie” roll.
ICE CREAM
The Greenery Creamery
Forget the boring old ice cream shop you grew up with and try this artisanal boutique, where classic flavors and bold new creations alike are served in both traditional and vegan varieties. Opt for a cone, a sundae or even a make-your-own cookie sandwich.
NACHOS
Yellow Dog Eats
Nachos are of course a great appetizer, but sometimes they can even serve as the main course. At “The Dog,” tri-colored tortilla chips come with your choice of pulled pork or chicken and piled with all the usual toppings, along with others you might not have thought of. There is also a version with seared Ahi tuna.
HOT DOGS
Hot Dog Heaven
It’s no wonder that Hot Dog Heaven was founded by a native of the Windy City, because you won’t find a better Chicago-style dog anywhere else in the area, complete with mustard, relish, onions, tomatoes, pickles, hot peppers and celery salt. There are plenty of other toppings to choose from as well, including cheese, kraut or chili.
MILKSHAKES
JoJo’s Shake Bar
Need an idea for a first date or to reward a child for a sterling report card? You can’t go wrong with a shake at JoJo’s, where the options range from basic traditional flavors to specialties bursting with sweets and fruits that are named after favorite movies and sitcoms from the ’80s and ’90s, like Rocky IV and The Wonder Years.
PANCAKES
Briarpatch Restaurant
A Winter Park staple since 1980, The Briarpatch is especially popular for breakfast or brunch, and their famous homemade pancakes are a must-have. The varieties include raspberry lemon cream, dark chocolate chunk banana or blue heaven wheat & fiber with fresh blueberries and buttered pecans.
PIES
Charlie’s Bakery & Creamery
For more than 50 years, families in Central Florida have been celebrating special occasions with a dessert from Charlie’s, and of course pies are always at the top of the list. With the holidays approaching, dinner tables across the region are sure to be graced with the likes of pumpkin, apple, banana cream and our personal favorite, chocolate peanut butter cream.
RETAIL
FINE JEWELERY
Pierce Custom Jewelers
Customers love Pierce Custom Jewelers because of the experience it provides: From personalized consultations and beautiful custom creations to special events complete with champagne, the heart of this store is both luxury and individualized attention.
BRIDAL SHOP
The Bridal Finery
It’s been said that when a prospective bride finds the dress that’s meant to be hers, she knows instantly from the rush of emotion that trying it on brings. The Bridal Finery has lots of experience in witnessing these cherished moments, with the range of styles offered and the skillful stylists ready to assist.
TOY SHOP
Ridemakerz
The best attribute a toy can have is educational value, and Ridemakerz provides this, with hands-on experience building the model ride of their dreams. There are endless customization options: car body type, color, rims, tires, accessories, decals, electronic functionality and more.
PET SHOP
Pet Orlando
We all want our furry loved ones to have healthy and fulfilled lives, and Pet Orlando offers that with natural, locally sourced food and treats made on-site. The team even offers nutritional and health consultations—demonstrating their commitment to each dog and cat that benefits from their supply.
WOMEN’S CLOTHING
Apricot Lane Boutique
Casual and formal attire, accessories and affordability are all that one could hope to find at a clothing store, but this independently owned boutique goes above and beyond—exemplifying stellar customer service while adhering to the aesthetic appeal of Apricot Lane Boutique as a brand.
MENSWEAR
John Craig Clothier
For men’s clothing from business to casual that exudes a strong sense of sophistication, John Craig Clothier goes above and beyond the basics with its unique designs, details and pops of color—both timeless and modern.
CHILDREN’S BOUTIQUE
Maison Baby & Kids
Maison Baby & Kids is a one-stop shop for the most adorable, quality clothes, accessories, toys, equipment, infant room necessities and more—with countless, more tailored options in each category. It’s the perfect place for baby shower gifts, or to find something both you and your child love.
BIKE SHOP
Kyle’s Bike Shop
A part of Downtown Orlando for nearly two decades, Kyle’s Bike Shop equips beginner and expert riders alike with everything they need: gear, service, maps and trails, advice, and of course, a variety of bikes available for sale or rental for all ages and all cyclist preferences.
RUNNING GEAR
Track Shack
Track Shack stands out for not only its expertly curated selection of apparel, footwear, nutrition and accessories, but its commitment to the local running community. Through partnerships and by hosting races, it engages customers and forms a culture of support, opportunities and collaboration.
VINTAGE SHOP
Etoile Boutique
The perfect place to find unique treasures is one with a warm, yet chic feel; which is exactly what Etoile Boutique in The Milk District encompasses. Their team is always on the lookout for trends, deals, special events and online engagement—including most recently, an online shopping experience.
SPECIALTY GIFTS
The Spice & Tea Exchange
While teatime may be a lifestyle for many all year, it is the perfect season to indulge in different blends to get into the holiday spirit. The Spice & Tea Exchange offers every tea preference with enticing seasonal options, along with gourmet spices that will have any culinary enthusiast delighted.
NURSERY
Luka’s Nursery
A huge selection of plants and garden supplies is exciting enough, but for events and services like landscape design and deliveries—and better yet, an immersive butterfly and bird encounter—Luka’s Nursery has all of that and more to provide a meaningful experience with nature.
FLORAL SHOP
Le Bouquet Fleurs
There’s no better way to express something to someone than with flowers. Le Bouquet Fleurs presents luxury arrangements with premium delivery, including one-of-a-kind seasonal collections to truly individualize for loved ones or special occasions.
VINYL SHOP
Rock & Roll Heaven
Rock & Roll Heaven sells hundreds of thousands of records from all genres and decades, with options to sell and trade—and some budget records for only $1. It’s the ideal place to find that rare, hard-to-find dream addition to your collection.
HOBBY SHOP
Graves R/C Hobbies
Take model building to the next level at Graves R/C Hobbies, which specializes in everything a hobbyist could need to build, accessorize and operate model airplanes, cars, helicopters, boats and more—including high-tech options like video, lights and motorization.
HEALTH & BEAUTY
BARBERSHOP
Melo’s Barber Shop
Reviews from longtime patrons and first-timers alike rave about the professionalism, standards and atmosphere here, swearing that it’s where they keep coming back to for the best shaves and haircuts of their lives.
HAIR STYLING
Prive Salon
This award-winning, two-location salon prioritizes the customer experience with both dazzling results and luxurious flourishes, as well as a “departmentalized” approach matching clients with the stylist best suited to the cut or updo they’re looking for.
FACIALS
Skin Studio
Driven by a passion for healthy, radiant skin, the professionals here are well-versed in delivering the nuanced care—like age-correcting contour facials or dermaplaning’s exfoliating and customizable treatments—to make you love the skin you’re in.
SPA
The Spa at Shingle Creek
This peaceful paradise is a destination in its own right, offering guests indulgent, personalized services that include blissful full-body treatments, an on-site salon and packaged bundles that elevate the pampering experience.
MASSAGE
The Mokara Spa at Omni Resort
Here you’ll be treated to individually tailored, tension-melting services ranging from the signature and deep-tissue massages to pressure-point reflexology or the Himalayan Salt Stone Massage, with plenty of enhancements to choose from, too.
MANI/PEDI
Luxy Nails & Beauty
The nail artists here aren’t just obsessed with detailed, masterful work: They’ll tend to your skin and cuticles, too. Whether you opt for a Russian gel manicure or a medical pedicure, you’ll be flaunting the results for weeks.
PILATES
HiLi Fitness
Multiple convenient locations mean you’re never far from a high-intensity, low-impact workout that safely pushes your body to its limits, paired with innovative workout systems and certified trainers to maximize the results of every session.
WAXING
Hello Sugar
Whether you’re visiting for routine brow maintenance or a full-body waxing, licensed aestheticians make sure every client is comfortable and well-informed about their service. And they’re happy to answer any questions and offer tips for optimal results.
YOGA
Orlando Power Yoga
This hot yoga studio with multiple locations focuses on the flow between postures, making for an intense workout that melts away fat, builds muscles, benefits your circulation and strengthens the heart, all while increasing flexibility.
SKIN TREATMENTS
TS Skin Care
This clinic specializes in offering highly effective acne and problem-skin treatments that give clients immediately visible results, starting with a free consultation. It also offers handcrafted natural skin-care products that help uncover beautifully clear skin.
HAIR COLORING
Salon Dulay Aveda
Using only Aveda’s naturally derived conditioning color custom-blended for each client, the professionals here deliver vibrant, head-turning results that increase the integrity of all hair textures, thanks to including Aveda Botanical Therapy Bond Builder in every color service.
EYEBROWS
BROWBYNAVA
Delivering a range of offerings from classic hair-removal services like tweezing and waxing to modern brow-enhancing treatments like tinting and lamination, Nava’s professionalism, kindness and results have earned her loyal clients who call her the MVP of brows.
MED SPA
Light Touch Med Spa
This rejuvenation destination’s experience, technology and reputation are on par with its world-class facilities, where FDA-approved services like body contouring, laser vein treatments, Botox and more all ensure you’ll leave both looking and feeling your best.
CHILDREN’S SALON
Pigtails and Crewcuts
This talented team of stylists is well-versed in making sure young clients leave with positive associations, fun memories and great styles. And with whimsical décor, an inviting play area and vehicle-themed salon chairs, it’s clear that kids come first here.
BLOWOUTS
Cherry Blow Dry Bar
The experts here know how to deliver glam on a budget. Their signature blowouts and array of add-ons will have you ready for any occasion, while the membership program makes it even easier to look runway-ready without breaking the bank.
LASHES
The Lash Lounge
Combining the latest technology with the highest training standards, The Lash Lounge aims to deliver not only the best lash-extension results in the area but also an incredible experience that’ll impress you as soon as you walk through the door.
LIFESTYLE
CHILDREN’S THEATER
Orlando Family Stage
True to its name, Orlando Family Stage is the destination for family fun. A season of wholesome programming provides ample opportunities to see a great show, while their Youth Academy is a great way to grow as an onstage performer.
KIDS PARTY VENUE
Max Action Arena
Max Action Arena offers exciting, action-packed parties kids are sure to remember, featuring an escape room, axe throwing, adventure rooms, extreme virtual reality, tons of great games, prizes and so much more.
DOGGIE DAYCARE
V.I.Pet Resort
Offering boarding and daycare options, V.I.Pet Resort is well equipped to take excellent care of your furry baby. Its boarding packages include all-day play, large, air-conditioned suites, maid service, a bedtime snack, and even TVs playing Disney and Animal Planet.
MUSIC LESSONS
Winter Park Music Academy
Grow your musical abilities with lessons for a variety of instruments including vocal, guitar, piano, cello, violin, viola, saxophone, banjo, bass, harmonica, ukulele, drum and more. Looking to level up? Enroll in their artist or band development program.
ART CLASSES
Crealdé School of Art
Crealdé believes art is for everyone, leading their instructors to offer a range of classes for artists of all ages, levels and mediums. Engage in unique offerings such as welding or bronze casting or improve your skills in classic art forms like sculpture, photography or drawing.
FAMILY FUN
Orlando Science Center
The Orlando Science Center exhibits—including DinoDigs and Food Heroes—encourage a love for science within the whole family. Go further and engage the mind and senses with live demos, hands-on science experiences and VR simulations.
INDOOR PLAYGROUND
Kidiverse
Indoor playgrounds are the perfect way to allow your kids to burn off energy and build social skills. Allow your child to play with climbing walls and the jungle gym, or enroll them in one of Kidiverse’s sensory, craft or art classes.
DATE NIGHT VENUE
Enzian Theater
Enjoy dinner and a show all in one place at Enzian Theater. Eat at its outdoor bar featuring delicious options like a cranberry turkey croissant and blackened chicken alfredo, before heading inside to watch an independent, foreign or classic film.
KARAOKE
O’Shucks Karaoke Bar
With an over 220-page song list covering everyone from Daughtry and The Temptations to Weird Al Yankovic and Taylor Swift, there’s plenty of fun to be had at O’Shucks. Bring in some local food, grab a drink from the bar and enjoy a night of song.
DANCE CLASSES
Arthur Murray Dance Studio
Whether you’re preparing for that first dance as a married couple, looking to learn how to dance at parties or hoping to step up into the competitive leagues, Arthur Murray has you covered. The studio offers a plethora of dance classes including salsa, tango, foxtrot and swing—to name a few.
Readers’ Choice
Food & Drink
Catering
Arthur’s Catering
Levan’s Catering
Chocolate Shops
David Ramirez Chocolates
Maitland Chocolate Factory
Date Night Restaurants
Chef’s Table
Christini’s Ristorante Italiano
Orlando | (407) 545-6867 | Christinis.com
Desserts
Better Than Sex
Ginther’s Swirls Ice Cream
Health & Beauty
Barbershop
Hammer & Nails
The Man Barbershop & Salon
Eyebrows & Lashes
Lash Dreams
Oh La La Brow Bar & Lash Studio
Fitness Programs
CycleBar Winter Park
Fit 407
Hair Salon
Bauman Salon
Mosaic Hair Studio & Blowout Bar
Med Spa Services
New U MedSpa
Spa Blue
Lifestyle
Art Museums
The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum
Winter Park | (407) 645-5311 | MorseMuseum.org
Orlando Museum of Art
Orlando | (407) 896-4231 | OMArt.org
Community Arts Theater
Orlando Shakespeare Theater
Orlando | (407) 447-1700 | OrlandoShakes.org
Theatre Winter Haven
Winter Haven | (863) 294-7469 | TheatreWinterHaven.com
History Museums
Lake Wales History Museum
Orange County Regional History Center
Orlando (407) 836-8500 | TheHistoryCenter.org
Music Lessons
Orlando School of Music
School of Rock
Musical Performing Arts Group
Opera Orlando
Orlando (407) 358-6603 | OperaOrlando.org
Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra
Orlando (407) 770-0071 | OrlandoPhil.org
Theatrical Performing Arts
Central Florida Community Arts
Orlando Ballet
Orlando (407) 426-1733 | OrlandoBallet.org
Pets
Animal Hospitals w/ Urgent Care
Hamlin Animal Hospital
Winter Garden | (407) 872-7772 | HamlinVet.com
Winter Park Veterinary Hospital
Winter Park (407) 644-2676 | WPVet.com
Dog Food & Treats
Bark Avenue Bakery
Pawsitively Pure Dog Food
Dog Training
Kamp K9
Beyond the Leash
Pet Care / Boarding
PetSuites Winter Garden
Winter Park Paws
Veterinary Clinics
4 Paws Animal Clinic
Kirkman Road Veterinary Clinic
Orlando (407) 297-7528 | KirkmanRoadVeterinaryClinic.com
Retail
Furniture & Home Décor
Adjectives Markets
Foreign Accents
Jewelry
Orlando Watch Company
Victoria Jewelers
Outdoor Recreation
Orlando Outfitters
SUP And Skiff Outfitters
Specialty Stores
Live Trends
The Ancient Olive
Toys & Collectibles
Gods and Monsters
American Girl Place
