Dining options near Orlando during the FSTEC conference
Orlando, Florida, is not just a destination for theme parks, but also a vibrant hub for culinary delights. Let's explore some of the city's standout restaurants that cater to a variety of tastes.
4 Rivers Smokehouse
Located in the Orlando metro area, 4 Rivers Smokehouse is a fast-casual barbecue restaurant. Known for its house-smoked brisket, pulled pork, ribs, sausage, smoked turkey, pulled chicken, and vegan burnt ends, the restaurant is the brainchild of John Rivers, who perfected the art of cooking brisket after a career in health care.
Chef Art Smith's Homecomin'
Inspired by comfort food family favorites, Chef Art Smith's Homecomin' offers a delightful array of Southern specialties. From Art's Famous Fried Chicken to Meatloaf, shrimp and grits, deviled eggs, and desserts like Chocolate Pecan Pie and Hummingbird Cake, this restaurant sources ingredients from Florida farms.
Morimoto Asia
A unique blend of Chinese, Japanese, and Korean cuisines, Morimoto Asia offers an exciting culinary experience. Highlights include Morimoto Peking Duck, LA BBQ Kalbi Beef Ribs, and Mongolian Filet Mignon. For weekend brunch, the menu focuses on dim sum, sushi, and noodle dishes.
Disney Springs
As an outdoor entertainment and dining district within Walt Disney World, Disney Springs boasts over 60 restaurants, some of which are chef-driven fine-dining choices. The Boathouse, with its fresh seafood, notable raw bar, steak, chops, and pasta, is a notable addition.
Seasons 52
Seasons 52 is a polished-casual restaurant and wine bar in the Darden portfolio, with a location in Orlando. The seasonally changing menu focuses on fresh ingredients inventively prepared, with lighter cooking techniques.
Café Tu Tu Tango
A local favourite, Café Tu Tu Tango serves shareable tapas and small plates, along with craft cocktails and signature sangrias.
Mills Market
Formerly a Vietnamese grocery store, Mills Market is now a food hall with five vendors offering banh mi, barbecue, onigiri, dim sum, and other options.
The FSTEC 2025 conference, focused on restaurant innovation and foodservice technology, is scheduled from September 14-16 at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center. Whether you're a food enthusiast or a restaurant innovator, Orlando's culinary scene promises an exciting adventure.
