September 10, 2025

Orlando’s Culinary Scene Experiences Transformation

News Summary

This fall, Orlando’s dining landscape is set for a shift as new restaurants and concepts emerge while others close. Highlights include the opening of Osteria Ester, Perla’s Pizza, and a quick-style omakase bar, Neko San. Meanwhile, popular spots like Soco have closed, with new ventures aiming to offer diverse culinary experiences to residents and visitors alike. The community continues to engage with unique events, enhancing Orlando’s reputation as a foodie destination.

Orlando is poised for a culinary transformation this fall as several new restaurants and dining ventures are set to open, while some well-known establishments have closed. With a mix of innovative concepts and familiar flavors, the city’s dining scene aims to offer citizens and visitors a diverse array of gastronomic experiences.

Soco, a popular restaurant that had been a staple in Thornton Park for 11 years, has officially closed its doors. Owner Craig Ustler has announced plans to introduce a new concept at the same location, although details on the new eatery remain undisclosed. Meanwhile, chef Jason and Sue Chin are set to launch their latest venture, Osteria Ester, described as an “Italian American” restaurant. The eatery will feature handmade pastas crafted by chef Michael Cooper and is named in honor of Cooper’s grandmother.

Adding to the excitement, Perla’s Pizza will be reopening in Winter Park at 959 W. Fairbanks Ave. on September 12. This pizzeria is known for its unique offerings, including the aptly named “Florida Man pizza.” Another notable addition is The Secret Slice, which recently opened at East End Market, allowing pizza enthusiasts to access their menu through a hidden entrance behind a striking red door.

Looking ahead, Neko San is anticipated to open this winter at 8546 Palm Parkway next to Susuru. This quick-style omakase and sake bar, led by chef Lewis Lin, will have a focus on nigiri, offering one-hour omakase experiences starting at $65 from a six-seat counter. The city’s noodle lovers will be excited to hear that KungFu Kitchen, known for its noodles and dumplings, will open its second Orlando location at 5320 S. Kirkman Road on September 15.

Additionally, an Asian supermarket and food court, H Mart, is scheduled to welcome customers at 7501 W. Colonial Drive at 10 a.m. on September 25. This establishment will feature an array of Korean and Japanese cuisine, broadening the culinary options in the area. As more establishments close, some of notable mention include Blu on the Avenue after 13 years on Park Avenue, and PDQ Chicken locations in Winter Park, Hunter’s Creek, and Waterford/UCF, which will close on September 14 to transition into Saucy! by KFC locations. Frank’s Pizza Shop on University Boulevard in Winter Park has also closed its doors.

In a community-focused effort, Everglazed Donuts & Cold Brew at Disney Springs will donate a portion of proceeds from their special H.O.W. Butterfly doughnut throughout September to Hearing the Ovarian Cancer Whisper. Additionally, chef Jes Tantalo will bring an Oktoberfest event to Redlight Redlight on September 20, featuring traditional German foods from noon to 6 p.m.

Another exciting establishment to keep an eye on is Kappo Tsan, a 30-seat Japanese restaurant set to open at 11815 Glass House Lane in O-Town West later this fall. This venue will focus on an intimate dining experience that combines kaiseki and izakaya styles. It will feature a six-seat chef’s counter for those interested in a tasting menu, with offerings like Mapo Tofu using Japanese ingredients and Taiwan beef noodle soup. The extensive sake and wine list will be curated by MICHELIN-awarded sommelier Benjamin Coutts, enhancing the dining experience with thoughtfully chosen beverages.

As Orlando’s culinary landscape evolves with these new ventures and adaptations, the local dining community remains dynamic, ensuring that a wide range of tastes and experiences will be available for patrons in the coming months.

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Additional Resources

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.

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