Recently Reviewed

from Orlando Weekly - March 9, 2022

Off the road

EDITED BY JESSICA BRYCE YOUNG

$10 OR LESS $10-$15 $15-$25 $25 OR MORE

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

JAM HOT CHICKEN

Nashville hot chicken gets the gentrified treatment in gentrified Hannibal Square, but it’s nevertheless among the best you’ll find in the city. Bell & Evans chicken kicked with habañero, ghost and Carolina Reaper peppers is a poultry pyro’s dream. Sides, whether crinkle-cut pickles, mayo-free slaw or 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 wonders 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 are notable. Lamb chops are also superb, as is the cheesy sujuk pide dotted with fat rounds of sausage. Kunefe is an absolute must. 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. It’s full service, so be sure to check in with the host. The beer garden and inside-outside cocktail bar are big draws. Open daily. (reviewed Feb. 9) 1412 Alden Road, 407887-4255, thehallontheyard.com, $$-$$$$

1921 MOUNT DORA

The Mount Dora stunner maintains a steadfast dedication to showcasing Florida ingredients, but with a new level of artistry and progression thanks to executive chef Chris Edwards and his team. From seared diver scallops to oak-fired chicken glazed in peanut bulgogi to coffeerubbed venison, the dishes dazzle. The wine list is still one of the best in the state, as is the exemplary cocktail program. Closed Mondays. (re-reviewed Feb. 2) 142 E. Fourth Ave., Mount Dora, 352-385-1921, 1921mountdora.com, $$$$

SOUPA SAIYAN 3

Soupakase, a sub-concept at noodle house Soupa Saiyan 3, offers the best value for an omakase in the city. Ten pieces of nigiri, most using seafood from Toyosu Fish Market in Tokyo, are presented by skilled sushi chef David Tsan (Morimoto Asia, Kabooki Sushi). A handroll and soup are included, all for just $65. Soupakase is currently offered Wednesday to Sunday starting at 5 p.m. (reviewed Jan. 26) 11325 University Blvd., 407-440-4687, exploretock.com/soupa, $$$ n