recently reviewed EDITED BY JESSICA BRYCE YOUNG
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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
FOUR FLAMINGOS Deft and playful Floribbean creations envisioned by Top Chef: All-Stars winner Richard Blais are the draw at this signature restaurant inside the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress. Molecular theatrics play an active role in the food and cocktails, but those shying away from the chemical chicanery (grilled lobster, tilefish beurre blanc and seafood moqueca) tend to be most gratifying. Desserts are a must, especially layered coconut-yuzu cake or the gorgeous Key lime blossom pie. (reviewed March 9) Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress, 1 Grand Cypress Blvd., 407-239-1234, fourflamingosorlando.com, $$$$
JAM HOT CHICKEN Nashville hot chicken gets the gentrified treatment in gentrified Hannibal Square, and it’s a poultry pyro’s dream: Bell & Evans chicken kicked with habañero, ghost and Carolina Reaper peppers. Sides like crinkle-cut pickles, mayo-free slaw and comforting mac & cheese topped with dry bake are top-notch. Closed Monday and Tuesday. (reviewed Feb. 23) 400 W. New England Ave., Winter Park, jamhotchickenfl.com, $$
ISTANBUL GRILL The grilled meats at this unfussy South OBT restaurant rival those of any other Turkish kebab house in the city — well-seasoned lamb kofta, piquant adana and plush tenderloin especially. Lamb chops are also superb, as is the cheesy sujuk pide dotted with fat rounds of sausage. Open daily. (reviewed Feb. 16) 9428 S. Orange Blossom Trail, 407-286-0887, istanbulgrillorlando.com, $$$
THE HALL ON THE YARD Dazzling grub hub in Ivanhoe Village brings upscale vibes (and prices) to the food hall experience. Nine concepts are housed within its gilded walls, each specializing in its own cuisine — vegan, Hawaiian, pan-Latin, panAsian, gourmet, Southern, baked goods, Indian and Caribbean, plus a beer garden and an inside-outside cocktail bar. It’s full service, so be sure to check in with the host. Open daily. (reviewed Feb. 9) 1412 Alden Road, 407-8874255, thehallontheyard.com, $$-$$$$
1921 MOUNT DORA The Mount Dora stunner maintains a steadfast dedication to showcasing Florida ingredients, but with a new level of artistry thanks to chef Chris Edwards and his team. From seared diver scallops to oak-fired chicken glazed in peanut bulgogi to coffee-rubbed venison, the dishes dazzle, and the wine list is still one of the best in the state. Closed Mondays. (reviewed Feb. 2) 142 E. Fourth Ave., Mount Dora, 352-385-1921, 1921mountdora.com, $$$$ n
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MARCH 16-22, 2022 ● ORLANDO WEEKLY
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