News Summary
Orlando has unveiled numerous new dining concepts while bidding farewell to several beloved restaurants. With openings like Kappo Tsan and Hong Kong Kitchen, the city’s food scene is becoming increasingly diverse. From Indian pizzas at Mazala Pijja to the refined ambiance of Corner Chophouse, the culinary landscape is thriving. As celebrated eateries close, innovative concepts are emerging, ensuring Orlando remains a vibrant hub for food lovers, especially with events like the Epcot Food & Wine Festival enhancing the experience.
Orlando has welcomed a wave of new dining options this year, introducing a variety of culinary experiences while also witnessing the closure of some beloved eateries. The city’s food scene continues to evolve as restaurateurs unveil new concepts that aim to attract food enthusiasts from around and beyond the region.
Among the most anticipated openings is Kappo Tsan, a unique kappo-style restaurant that will blend Japanese craftsmanship with Taiwanese soul. Scheduled to open later this year at 11815 Glass House Lane, it will be led by chef David Tsan alongside restaurateurs Johnny and Jimmy Tung. This establishment is expected to offer a distinct dining experience that emphasizes quality and tradition.
Winter Park has recently celebrated the opening of Hong Kong Kitchen, located at 3096 Aloma Ave. This restaurant specializes in traditional Cantonese dishes, known for its barbecue and a menu that fuses Chino-Latino flavors, providing residents with a diverse array of options.
Another new addition is Papparella Trattoria, a Brazilian restaurant now open at 6002 Sand Lake Vista Drive. It offers an impressive selection of wood-fired pizzas, handmade pastas, and breads, aiming to satisfy the cravings of both local diners and visitors to the area.
Bawarchi Biryanis, a popular Indian chain, is set to expand its presence with a new location at The Fountains Market Place in Sanford, scheduled to open later this year. This addition follows the success of its original spot at 6315 International Drive.
In a nod to Indian cuisine, Mazala Pijja will be launching an Indian pizza joint inside Gully Urban Indian Eatery at 1155 Doss Ave, located near Open Book Tavern (OBT). This innovative twist on traditional pizza promises to attract adventurous eaters looking for a new culinary adventure.
As part of recent developments, the Corner Chophouse is slated to open on September 5 in the space previously occupied by Dexter’s/Park Avenue Tavern at 558 W. New England Ave in Hannibal Square. This restaurant is part of the Indigo Road Hospitality Group and is expected to offer a refined dining experience.
Winter Park will also see a second location of Haraz Coffee House opening next month at 1561 Lee Road. This Yemeni café aims to provide a cozy atmosphere with traditional beverages and snacks.
Nearby, Corazon Cocina Mexicana has opened its doors at 6800 Visitors Circle, conveniently located near Universal Boulevard. This new establishment is anticipated to add vibrant Mexican flavors to the area.
In addition, JJ’s Scratch Cocina has recently reopened at 2950 Curry Ford Road, now offering a refreshed menu featuring a blend of Venezuelan and Mediterranean cuisine.
Mii Cafe is another exciting opening, showcasing Vietnamese culinary delights such as bánh mì, boba, and mochi donuts at their new location at 225 Michigan St in SoDo.
Not to be overlooked, Brazilian Bistro has opened at 280 S. State Road 434 in Altamonte Springs, serving classic Brazilian dishes and barbecue, echoing the city’s ever-growing diversity in dining options.
However, with new beginnings come farewells. Mr. J Hand-Pulled Noodle has permanently closed its location in Ocoee. Additionally, Leguminati, a well-loved vegan eatery, has ceased operations at the Hourglass Market after a decade of service.
In a recent transformation, the “Living Room” at Ômo by Jont has been renovated into The Salon at Ômo by Jont, offering patrons a cozy space to enjoy wine, cocktails, and small plates.
As the culinary landscape of Orlando shifts, the Epcot Food & Wine Festival runs from August 28 to November 22, further enriching the city’s dining experience with new offerings like Gyozas of the Galaxy.
Lastly, Selva Rosa Cocina & Bar is preparing to open in the former Teak Neighborhood Grill space in Maitland, while a new Hawaiian diner named Moa Kai has already opened in Orlando, adding to the diverse food options available to residents and visitors alike.
This dynamic environment ensures that Orlando remains a vibrant hub for food lovers, continuously evolving to meet the tastes and preferences of its diverse community.
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Additional Resources
- Orlando Magazine: Kappo Tsan Restaurant
- Orlando Weekly: Moa Kai Diner Opening
- Attractions Magazine: Epic Universe Restaurant News
- Chick-fil-A Press Room
- Orlando Weekly: Leiah Restaurant Opening
- Wikipedia: Orlando
- Google Search: Restaurants in Orlando
- Google Scholar: Orlando Food Scene
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Orlando
- 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.
