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The price range generally reflects the average cost of one dinner entree. Bakeries, ice cream shops, etc. reflect relative cost for one person. Search hundreds more reviews at orlandoweekly.com
KOMBU SUSHI RAMEN
In a less-glamorous, half-forgotten strip of Winter Park, Kombu Sushi Ramen maintains a fittingly low profile, serving a so-so mix of sushi, ramen and donburi. Kombu likely won’t be mentioned among the city’s elite sushi or ramen spots, but it’s bringing a foodie-fave cuisine to a neglected sector, and as local tastes are elevated, the kitchen may rise to meet them. Closed Mondays. (reviewed June 16) 7325 Aloma Ave., Winter Park, 321-972-9965, facebook.com/ kombusushiramen, $$
FINANCIER BISTRO & BAR
The French patisserie-cum-bistro in Winter Park serves bistro classics as elegant as the restaurant itself, be it a properly Gruyère’d and bechamel’d croque-monsieur or a gorgeous ratatouille with arugula pistou. The pistou also makes an appearance in the burrata with heirloom cherry tomatoes. While perfectly roasted and crisp-skinned, the poulet rôti is a bit pricey. So is the burger with caramelized onions, barbecue-like house sauce and melted Gruyère running down the sides, but it’s a beaut. End with chocolate-hazelnut croissants or the flawless Madagascar vanilla crème brûlée. Closed Mondays. (reviewed June 9) 212 N. Park Ave., Winter Park, 321-972-2284, financierbistrobar.com, $$
FIRST WATCH
First Watch has a fresh new look, vibe and approach to daytime dining. Grease and deep fryers have been replaced by a healthier approach to cooking, be it the un-fried chickichanga or the less fatty biscuits and turkey sausage gravy. Other items we’d get again: ricotta pancakes served with lemon curd; the “elevated” egg sandwich; and the roast beef with horseradish-havarti sandwich, a lunchtime (or early dinner) favorite. There’s a separate kitchen and entrance area for takeout orders. Fresh juice tonics and boozy bevs are also offered. Open daily until 2:30 p.m. (reviewed June 2) 140 N. Orlando Ave., Winter Park, 407-287-9034, firstwatch.com, $$ CONTINUED ON PAGE 39
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JUNE 23-29, 2021 ● ORLANDO WEEKLY
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