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Dining Guide: Grandes Cocinas

A look at 30 fantastic Spanish & Latin restaurants in Greater Orlando

Antojitos Authentic Mexican Food

If you love Spanish and Latin food, you’ll find plenty to adore throughout Greater Orlando. The authentic flavors of Spain, Mexico, Cuba, Colombia, Brazil and related nations can all be found in our region, not to mention fantastic fusions, as evidenced by the fare found at these 30 local standouts.

Agave Azul: Serving a true taste of Mexico for nearly a decade, Agave Azul prides itself on service, and private rooms are available. Millenia, (407) 704-6930

Antojitos Authentic Mexican Food: This is a crown jewel of CityWalk’s dining empire, and traditional Mexican fare and ambience is why. Universal CityWalk, (407) 224-3663

Bandeja Paisa Latin Restaurant: Serving authentic Colombian dishes with a modern aesthetic, this eatery also boasts occasional live music. Hunter’s Creek, (407) 704-7888

Black Bean Deli: Greater Orlando’s king of Cuban fare has been serving traditional tastes of the island nation for more than 15 years. Mills 50, (407) 203-0922; Winter Park, (407) 628-0294

Boteco Restaurant: Brazilian flavors take center stage at this location, which is also great place to catch all the hottest European football matches. International Drive, (407) 363-7730

Café Tu Tu Tango: Art and food share center stage at this vibrant eatery, which has a world-influenced Latin menu and can host private events. International Drive, (407) 248-2222

Capa Steakhouse & Bar: Located on the top floor of the Four Seasons Resort, Capa offers a romantic setting and Spanish-influenced cuisine. Walt Disney World Resort, (407) 313-6868

Ceviche Tapas Bar and Restaurant: Part of a trio of upscale Florida restaurants, Orlando’s chapter offers Spanish culinary immersion. Downtown Orlando, (321) 281-8140

Columbia Restaurant: This ritzy outpost of Tampa’s original Columbia has the same great menu and service as its forebear. Celebration, (407) 566-1505

El Bodegon Tapas & Wine: The Spanish plates, paella and sangria are great for lunch or dinner, and Saturday and Sunday nights boast live flamenco music. Winter Park, (407) 628-1078

El Patron Mexican Restaurant & Cantina: Boasting an artisanal approach to food and ambience, El Patron excels at modern Mexican cuisine. Lake Buena Vista, (407) 238-5300

Exile Restaurant & Lounge: Although this is technically an American eatery, great Latin flavors make their presence known on the menu. Sky Lake, (407) 730-6262

Frontera Cocina: The creation of James Beard-winning chef Rick Bayless, Frontera Cocina offers contemporary Mexican cuisine. Disney Springs, (407) 560-9197

Gallettos Wine Bar & Grill: Focusing on Portuguese, Brazilian and Spanish fare, Gallettos has a relaxed atmosphere that’s great for families. Metrowest, (407) 295-3146

Garibaldi’s Mexican Cuisine: A spinoff of Garibaldi’s original restaurant, this flashier extension has a different menu and live mariachis on weekends. Sky Lake, (407) 888-2869

Garibaldi’s Mexican Restaurant: You can’t go wrong with the traditional Mexican fare at either of this Orlando classic’s locations. Azalea Park, (407) 275-5035; Wekiva, (407) 814-7103

Guavate: This colorful eatery offers many Puerto Rican favorites, including their signature mofongos, designed to please the whole family. Waterford Lakes, (407) 281-4700

Kasa Restaurant & Bar: This minimalist downtown spot specializes in tapas influenced by global cuisine, plus a raw bar and seafood. Downtown Orlando, (407) 985-5272

La Calle Restaurant: If you don’t feel like dining in, La Calle’s casual Spanish fare can be enjoyed via delivery and takeout, too. Ventura, (407) 930-5631

La Fiesta Mexican Grill: Head south of the border without leaving town at this hidden gem that’s particularly known for fajitas and chimichangas. Conway, (407) 985-4340

Mango’s Tropical Café: The dancing might not be suitable for young diners, but dinner and a show can be had at this cousin to the South Beach original. International Drive, (407) 673-4422

Paella House: As the name implies, this spot is known for its authentic paella, but the menu also includes tapas, sangria and other tastes of southern Spain. Hunters Creek, (407) 730-6500

Paradiso 37: Nestled on the waterfront at Disney Springs, this tapas-oriented eatery offers Latin- Caribbean fare and more than 30 brands of tequila. Disney Springs, (407) 934-3700

Q’Kenan: Inside the unassuming exterior, you’ll find simple-but-delicious Venezuelan and Latin specialties, including arepas and empanadas. Lake Buena Vista, (407) 238-0014

Rocco’s Tacos and Tequila Bar: A fun, casual atmosphere and outstanding food makes every trip to Rocco’s an experience not soon forgotten. Dr. Phillips, (407) 226-0550

Santiago’s Bodega: Part of a trio of Florida-exclusive Spanish restaurants, Orlando’s edition offers al fresco dining and terrific food. Altamonte Springs, (407) 960-2605; Ivanhoe Village, (407) 412-6979

Sofrito Latin Café: In addition to tastes from throughout Latin America, Sofrito offers board games and more for the whole family to enjoy. Lake Buena Vista, (407) 778-4205

Tapa Toro: Come for the flamenco dancing, but stay for the classic and contemporary Spanish small plates, family-style paella and happy-hour specials. International Drive, (407) 226-2929

Taste of Peru Orlando: A large selection of traditional Peruvian fare is complemented by simple yet vibrant décor reminiscent of its namesake country. Williamsburg, (407) 857-2734

98Forty Tapas & Tequila: Located at the Rosen Centre, 98Forty has fresh tapas and 40 premium tequilas, all of which are great for sharing. International Drive, (407) 996-9840

This article originally appeared in Orlando Family Magazine’s March 2017 issue.