News Summary
Orlando’s food landscape is shifting as beloved restaurants close while fresh dining options emerge. Notable closures include Mr. J Hand-Pulled Noodle and Shōgun Japanese Steakhouse. Exciting newcomers like Mazala Pijja, Selva Rosa Cocina & Bar, and Heatwave bring diverse culinary experiences to the city. Events such as Zymarium Meadery’s Bee-Day bash and the innovative Halloween Horror Nights food offerings add to the city’s vibrant culinary culture, making Orlando a dynamic hub for food lovers.
Orlando’s vibrant food scene is undergoing significant changes as popular establishments close their doors while new eateries prepare to make their mark. Mr. J Hand-Pulled Noodle served its final bowl recently, marking the end of a unique dining experience cherished by local noodle enthusiasts.
Conversely, the city is welcoming a variety of new restaurants. Mazala Pijja, an Indian pizza joint, is set to open near South Orange Blossom Trail, promising to blend Indian flavors with classic pizza. This new joint adds to the growing array of international cuisine options available in the area.
In Maitland, Selva Rosa Cocina & Bar is preparing to launch in the former location of Teak Neighborhood Grill. This new venue aims to offer a fresh dining experience with an exciting menu that reflects its unique culinary vision. Meanwhile, Moa Kai, a Hawaiian diner, has recently opened its doors in Orlando, contributing to the city’s diverse food landscape.
Another newcomer on the horizon is Stufd, which is reported to be working on dumpling offerings that are expected to catch the attention of food lovers across the region. In other shifts within the market, Shōgun Japanese Steakhouse has permanently closed, leaving a gap for new establishments to fill.
Avalon Park has recently seen the introduction of Tratto, a restaurant that aims to delight patrons with a variety of Italian flavors. In addition to traditional dishes, Tratto is set to become a staple for those looking for authentic Italian cuisine.
In Parramore, a new café-meets-nightspot called Heatwave has soft-opened in the former Stonewall space, attracting night owls with its unique dual concept of dining and entertainment.
On a celebratory note, Zymarium Meadery is planning a Bee-Day bash to take place this weekend. The event will focus on food and mead inspired by bees, providing a unique gastronomic experience for attendees.
Taco’s Lab in Winter Park is gaining attention for its innovative approach to food, testing unusual food concepts that aim to surprise and delight patrons. Similarly, Meltwich, known for its grilled cheese sandwiches, is set to open in the old Kung Fu Tea space, located near University Boulevard and Alafaya Trail.
The Asian culinary scene is also expanding with the opening of Nomi Sushi Hibachi & Sake Bar at 12189 E. Colonial Drive, showcasing a variety of sushi and hibachi options for diners in the area.
In a notable closure, LA Boiling Seafood Crabs & Crawfish, which served the community for 13 years at 1242 E. Colonial Drive, is permanently shutting down. This comes amidst a wave of changes in the Orlando food scene as businesses adapt to fluctuating demands and economic circumstances.
After recently filing for Chapter 11, Hawkers Asian Street Food has partnered with the Savory Fund to revitalize its operations and accelerate growth. They plan to remodel their original Mills Avenue location, aiming to improve their market presence.
In upcoming events, La Femme du Fromage will host a four-course dinner featuring chef Jason Wolfe at East End Market, with the menu inspired by the rich flavors of New Orleans cuisine, scheduled for June 27 and 28.
As Orlando prepares for the annual Halloween Horror Nights 2025 at Universal Orlando, taking place from August 29 to November 2, food enthusiasts can look forward to a newly crafted culinary experience. Executive sous chef Chris Colón has revealed a new food theme focusing on “disgustingly delicious” offerings, where guests can indulge in unique items such as Yum Yum Deviled Eggs, which are coconut panna cotta and pineapple ganache disguised as traditional deviled eggs. Alcoholic enthusiasts can enjoy themed cocktails like Light the Way and Starry Night Spritz, along with inventive food stand items including Clown Cafe Bloody Popcorn and Death by a Cheese Stick, solidifying this year’s Halloween event as a must-attend for culinary adventurers.
As new opportunities arise in Orlando’s food landscape, the city continues to balance the closing of longstanding favorites with the excitement of fresh dining experiences. With diverse culinary options at every corner, Orlando remains a dynamic hub for food lovers.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Halloween Horror Nights Returns to Universal Orlando
Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining Program Celebrates 20th Anniversary
Orlando Hosts Flavor of Haiti Food Festival
Orlando Unveils Arts and Cultural Festivals for Spring
Orlando’s Magical Dining Celebrates 20th Anniversary
Orlando’s Thriving Event Scene Offers Big Nights and Delights
Upcoming Community Events in Central Florida
Top Outdoor Dining Spots in Orlando Highlighted
Additional Resources
- Orlando Weekly: Food News
- Wikipedia: Orlando
- Orlando Weekly: New Restaurants
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Orlando
- Click Orlando: Food Truck News
- Google Search: Orlando Food Scene
- Today: Halloween Horror Nights Menu
- Google Scholar: Orlando Culinary Experiences
- Fantasyland News: HHN 2025 Food Preview
- Google News: Orlando Restaurants
Author: STAFF HERE ORLANDO WRITER
ORLANDO STAFF WRITER The ORLANDO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOrlando.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Orlando, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, Megacon Orlando, and Central Florida Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Orlando Economic Partnership and Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Metro Orlando, plus leading businesses in leisure and hospitality that power the local economy such as Walt Disney World Resort, AdventHealth, and Universal Orlando. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
