Introduction
Orlando, a city synonymous with magical theme parks and family adventures, often overshadows a rich tapestry of culinary experiences waiting to be discovered. Beyond the towering castles and thrilling rides lies a vibrant food scene, and nestled within that scene is a delicious and authentic representation of Middle Eastern cuisine. Far from being a mere pit stop for fast food, Orlando is blossoming into a destination for those seeking the genuine flavors of Lebanon, Turkey, Egypt, Palestine, and beyond. This article is your guide to navigating Orlando’s Middle Eastern food oasis, from bustling established restaurants to hidden gems whispered about by locals. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and embark on a culinary journey you won’t soon forget.
Orlando’s Middle Eastern culinary landscape offers more than just a quick bite. It offers an immersion into culture, tradition, and the passionate artistry of chefs who pour their heritage into every dish. We will explore the must-try dishes, the restaurants that offer authentic experiences, and the cultural nuances that make Middle Eastern food in Orlando a rewarding exploration for every palate.
Established Flavors: Beloved Middle Eastern Restaurants
Let’s begin with some of the most popular and well-regarded Middle Eastern restaurants in Orlando, places that have earned a loyal following for their consistent quality and authentic flavors.
First on our list is Cedar’s Restaurant, a cornerstone of Orlando’s Lebanese dining scene. With its warm and inviting atmosphere, Cedar’s offers a quintessential Lebanese experience. The menu is brimming with classics, but the mixed grill stands out as a true highlight. Imagine succulent skewers of marinated chicken, beef, and lamb, perfectly grilled and served with fluffy rice and a generous helping of creamy hummus. The Baba Ghanoush, smoky and smooth, is another must-try, alongside their fresh tabouli salad, bursting with fresh herbs and zesty lemon dressing. Prices are moderate, making it a great option for both casual lunches and celebratory dinners. Located conveniently near downtown, Cedar’s is a reliable choice for an authentic taste of Lebanon. One recent online reviewer enthused, “This is the real deal! The best Lebanese food I’ve had outside of Lebanon itself.”
Next, we venture into the world of Turkish cuisine at Bosphorous Turkish Cuisine, a restaurant that transports you to the shores of the Bosphorus Strait with its elegant décor and tantalizing aromas. Here, the star of the show is undoubtedly the kebab selection. From the classic Adana kebab, made with hand-minced lamb seasoned with fragrant spices, to the tender and flavorful chicken shish kebab, there’s a kebab to satisfy every craving. Don’t miss the Pide, a Turkish flatbread baked with various toppings, such as cheese, ground beef, or spinach. For a sweet ending, indulge in the delicate layers of baklava, soaked in honey and sprinkled with pistachios. Bosphorous provides a slightly more upscale dining experience, perfect for a special occasion.
Our journey continues with Mediterranean Blue, a restaurant that draws influences from various Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cultures. While its focus is broader than just Middle Eastern, the menu is heavily influenced by traditional flavors and ingredients from the region. Their hummus is a consistent crowd-pleaser and their falafel is also worth trying. Mediterranean Blue also is popular due to its central location and ambiance.
Hidden Treasures: Discovering Local Gems
Now, let’s delve into the lesser-known corners of Orlando’s Middle Eastern food scene, where you’ll find hidden gems that are beloved by locals for their authenticity and unique culinary offerings.
Tucked away in a quiet neighborhood is Syrian Kitchen, a small, family-owned restaurant serving up authentic Syrian dishes passed down through generations. Here, you’ll find no-frills, home-style cooking at its finest. Their specialty is the Kibbeh, a savory ground meat and bulgur wheat croquette, cooked to crispy perfection. The restaurant’s owner is passionate about sharing her culture through food, and her warm hospitality makes every meal a truly special experience. Portions are generous, and prices are incredibly reasonable.
For a taste of Egypt, head to Cairo Bites, a restaurant that specializes in traditional Egyptian cuisine. The star of the show here is undoubtedly the Koshari, Egypt’s national dish. This hearty and flavorful dish consists of rice, lentils, pasta, chickpeas, and a spicy tomato sauce, topped with crispy fried onions. It’s a symphony of textures and flavors that will leave you feeling completely satisfied. Other must-try dishes include the Molokhia, a flavorful stew made with jute leaves, and the Ful Medames, a hearty bean stew.
Finally, venture slightly outside of the immediate Orlando area to discover Jerusalem Falafel, a small eatery known for its incredible falafel and shawarma. This no-frills spot is incredibly popular with locals who come for the generous portions, flavorful food, and budget-friendly prices. Their falafel is made fresh daily and fried to crispy perfection, and their shawarma is packed with flavor and perfectly seasoned.
A Culinary Tapestry: Must-Try Dishes and Experiences
No exploration of Orlando’s Middle Eastern food scene is complete without sampling some of the region’s most iconic dishes.
Shawarma/Gyro
Let’s start with Shawarma, a culinary cornerstone of the Middle East. Whether you prefer chicken, lamb, or beef, Orlando offers a plethora of places to satisfy your shawarma craving. The key is finding a spot that uses high-quality meat, marinates it properly, and cooks it to crispy perfection on a vertical spit. The best shawarma is typically served in a warm pita bread with tahini sauce, pickles, and other fresh vegetables.
Hummus & Dips
No Middle Eastern meal is complete without Hummus. This creamy dip, made from chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic, is a staple of Middle Eastern cuisine. Orlando boasts a variety of hummus options, from classic versions to more adventurous variations with roasted red peppers or spicy harissa. Be sure to pair your hummus with warm, freshly baked pita bread for the ultimate dipping experience. Other dips that you should try include Baba Ghanoush, a smoky eggplant dip, and Muhammara, a spicy walnut and red pepper dip.
Falafel
For a vegetarian delight, look no further than Falafel. These deep-fried balls of ground chickpeas are a flavorful and satisfying option. Orlando offers a variety of falafel styles, from traditional versions to more modern interpretations. The key is finding falafel that is crispy on the outside and soft and fluffy on the inside. Falafel is often served in a pita bread with tahini sauce, pickles, and other fresh vegetables.
Kebabs/Grills
Meat lovers will rejoice in the array of Kebabs available in Orlando. From the classic Shish Kebab, made with marinated cubes of meat grilled on a skewer, to the flavorful Kofta Kebab, made with ground meat and spices, there’s a kebab to suit every taste. Many restaurants also offer mixed grills, allowing you to sample a variety of different kebabs.
Rice Dishes
While not strictly Middle Eastern, many Mediterranean restaurants offer a great selection of Rice Dishes. From fragrant basmati rice to flavorful biryani, rice is a staple of Middle Eastern cuisine. Be sure to try dishes like Kabsa, a spiced rice dish with meat and vegetables, and Maqluba, an upside-down rice dish with layers of meat, vegetables, and rice.
Middle Eastern Sweets
No meal is complete without something sweet, and Orlando offers a delectable array of Middle Eastern Sweets. Indulge in the flaky layers of Baklava, soaked in honey and sprinkled with pistachios, or try the creamy and decadent Kanafeh, made with shredded phyllo dough, cheese, and a sweet syrup. Don’t forget to sample the Maamoul, date-filled cookies that are a popular treat during holidays. Many Middle Eastern bakeries and restaurants offer a wide selection of these treats.
Middle Eastern Coffee and Tea
Finally, don’t miss the opportunity to experience the unique flavors of Middle Eastern Coffee and Tea. Arabic coffee is typically brewed strong and served in small cups, often flavored with cardamom or other spices. Turkish coffee is another popular option, known for its strong, rich flavor and the layer of sediment that settles at the bottom of the cup. Mint tea is also a popular beverage, often served with a generous helping of sugar.
Bringing the Flavors Home: Middle Eastern Markets
To fully immerse yourself in the Middle Eastern culinary experience, consider visiting one of Orlando’s well-stocked Middle Eastern grocery stores. Places like International Food Club and Mediterranean Market offer a vast selection of spices, ingredients, and imported goods that you won’t find in your average supermarket. Here, you can stock up on essentials like tahini, za’atar, sumac, and rosewater, as well as a wide variety of olives, cheeses, and dates. With these ingredients, you can recreate your favorite Middle Eastern dishes at home.
A Taste of Your Own: Try Making Tabbouleh
To get you started, here’s a simple recipe for Tabbouleh, a refreshing Lebanese salad that’s easy to make at home:
- Ingredients: 1 cup fine bulgur wheat, 2 cups boiling water, 1 bunch fresh parsley, 1/2 cup fresh mint, 1/2 cup diced tomatoes, 1/4 cup diced red onion, 1/4 cup olive oil, 1/4 cup lemon juice, salt and pepper to taste.
- Instructions: Soak the bulgur wheat in boiling water for 30 minutes, then drain and squeeze out excess water. Finely chop the parsley and mint. Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and mix well. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve chilled.
Navigating Orlando’s Middle Eastern Flavors: Essential Tips
To make the most of your culinary adventure, here are a few tips for exploring Orlando’s Middle Eastern food scene.
Be open to trying new things. Don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone and sample dishes that you’ve never tried before. Ask restaurant staff for recommendations. They are often the best source of information about the menu and can help you find hidden gems. Check online reviews and ratings to get an idea of what other diners have to say about a particular restaurant. Consider visiting during lunchtime for more affordable options. Many restaurants offer lunch specials that are a great way to sample their food without breaking the bank. Finally, keep an eye out for cultural events and festivals that feature Middle Eastern food. These events are a great opportunity to sample a variety of different dishes and experience the culture firsthand.
A Culinary Oasis Awaits
Orlando offers far more than just theme park fare. Its Middle Eastern food scene provides a rich and diverse culinary landscape waiting to be explored. From established restaurants serving up classic dishes to hidden gems offering authentic flavors, there’s something for every palate. So, ditch the predictable and embark on a flavorful journey through Orlando’s Middle Eastern culinary oasis! Explore the unique flavors, the welcoming hospitality, and the cultural richness that this vibrant food scene has to offer. You might just discover your new favorite culinary destination. What are you waiting for? Go, explore, and savor the taste of the Middle East right here in Orlando!
