A guide to the best restaurants in Central Florida, including Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando, from the area's most trusted critic. Over 250 listings, with everything from Ethiopian to Thai and Turkish to Vietnamese, as well as where to find the best Florida seafood, juiciest steaks and the place to have a special occasion splurge. Each restaurant is described by Joseph with the trademark wit that made him one of Orlando Sentinel's most popular columnists for over 20 years. Orlando has a lot of terrific restaurants, says Joseph. We have a few stinkers, too. Joseph will help steer you to the best restaurants, whether you're in the mood for fine dining or a casual meal. Lists include cuisines, locations and special features, such as who offers entertainment or Sunday brunch, what are the best places to take the kids, and where can you dine with your dog. There also are categories for late night dining, outdoor seating, quiet conversations and restaurants offering private dining and banquet space. It's a valuable resource for locals, vacationers, conventioneers and meeting planners -- anyone who wants to avoid the stinkers.
Scott Joseph has been reviewing restaurants in Central Florida and beyond for more than 22 years. In that time he established himself as the most trusted, reliable and comprehensive source of restaurant information in the region. His advice was so closely followed that Orlando magazine named him one of the city's 50 Most Powerful People. During his career as senior critic at the Orlando Sentinel, Scott wrote thousands of reviews and authored numerous columns. He spearheaded several dining guides and initiated the annual Foodie Awards. He is a member of the Association of Food Journalists, which awarded him first place for his article Ocean Odyssey, tracking a tuna from the fishing boat to the dock to a restaurant kitchen; and the James Beard Foundation, where he is a regional judge for the annual restaurant awards. Scott now publishes Scott Joseph's Orlando Restaurant Guide and serves as a consultant on fine service and food for restaurants.