Embark on a two-day journey through Orlando North with a focus on authentic local flavors, unique activities, and hidden gems. This itinerary offers a perfect blend of culinary adventures and entertainment, showcasing some of the best spots to eat, drink, and unwind in Seminole County. From award-winning burgers at Alex’s Fresh Kitchen to craft brews at Hourglass Brewing, and even a nostalgic trip to Arcade Monsters, this guide takes you through the must-visit destinations that make Orlando North a delightful and unforgettable escape
Day One
347 Grill by Coach Shula
The start of my two day Seminole County adventure was none other than 347 Gill by Shula which is just like Shula’s Steakhouse attached to the Westin in Lake Mary. The restaurants were founded by Coach Don Shula in 1989 and are known for having inviting atmospheres and quality food. On the lunch menu I started my day with a nice little pomegranate martini, it was light and refreshing. The Herb Crusted Ravioli was a great lunch option for me since it was lunch time and I had a long big day ahead. It was a great serving of fried and cheesy ravioli. In addition to the food Pet Rescue by Judy has been hosting adoption events there so I got to make some furry friends before heading out.
Central Florida Zoo
Is this Sanfords crown jewel? Perhaps. No shortage of interesting things to see at the zoo, their reptile exhibit alone could keep you busy for quite some time. The animals all have detailed fact plaques about them including their origins and where they rank on population. There is a botanical garden as well where they have some really inspiring plant facts, like how to use the to ward off pests and such from your garden naturally. They have added a climbing obstacle course out front and there is of course the famous little train, no shortage of things to do here.
Deviant Wolfe Brewing
Well if you are in Sanford you definitely have your brewery options but Deviant Wolfe is one of my favorites. There is always a nice variety of beers brewed and usually a guest tap as well. Alongside a couple of sours, their Christmas in July special, I rounded out my flight with a delicious stout. With long bench seating, a comfortable family friendly atmosphere, and the occasional vintage stores popping up, Deviant Wolfe makes for a relaxing and unique taproom setting.
The Tennessee Truffle
If you are the type of person who really loves food, then the chefs at The Tennessee Truffle are good company. Fresh ingredients on a carefully curated menu make for your tastebuds delight. I had decided on a couple of appetizers, first up was the Mac & Tomatoes, while I was expecting more of a mac and cheese type dish this was not that. Creamy mac, roasted tomatoes, bacon fat and scallions perfectly blends salt, acid, and fat for a savory, and at times almost sweet, blend that is bite after bite of renewed joy. Second appetizer was the Tea Braised Sticky Spare Ribs. Fall off the bone tender with a perfect crisp to the crust, these tender juicy ribs are sauced in a way that will have you raising the bar on what you believe to be finger lickin good.
Day Two
Alex’s Fresh Kitchen
This is what we call a hidden gem because this one is tucked away in a plaza in Casselberry. Alex serves up some of the best burgers and fries in the Orlando area, the award winning Mamba burger (named in honor of Kobe Bryant) has 24 spices to it, fried pickles and jalapeños, and cheese which is an absolute slam dunk. This is another one of those places that cares about getting fresh and local ingredients, making all the difference in the final product. Never afraid to explore new flavors while keeping value in the food like having a $5 version of the Mamba burger available makes Alex’s Fresh Kitchen the kind of establishment you need to get to.
Arcade Monsters
Never let something like a Florida storm get in the way of your relaxation by throwing it back a little and hitting a good old fashioned arcade…well almost anyways. Arcade Monsters have a couple of locations one in Lake Mary and another in Oviedo that really give you that old school arcade feeling while blending old school games with some of the best new ones. Once you get your wrist band sorted you can stay and play all day, I got a good 2 hours of racing games in before realizing a snack was in order. One of their house made Pina Colada slushies with a couple of shots for a kick paired with some chicken fajita cheese fries made for a perfect recharge before failing miserably at pinball for a while. With all day access, convenient drinks, and great snack food, Arcade monsters is a perfect way to spend an afternoon.
Hourglass Brewing Longwood
Is there any better way to wrap up a long day than a brewery? With a large selection of beers on tap Hourglass Longwood is going to scratch whatever itch you have when it comes to beer choices. I had to get a flight with some of their Sour offerings but could not resist the Barbie theme ones. The taproom is huge and decorated with outright nostalgia and some pretty cool artwork available for sale. Pinball machines across the back wall and food offerings connected in the building this is a great place to spend an evening. Great place to host events as well with the space, food, and libations available.
About the Creator
My name is Sean Abou-Assi, I am a Los Angeles transplant going on a decade in Central Florida. For me, growing up as a first generation American in a melting pot City like Los Angeles you develop a love for different cultures, varieties of cuisines and experiences. Once I moved to Orlando I sought out similar experiences with friends and a growing foodie community. Since 2017 I have learned to photograph, record, and style food to showcase to anyone who cares to look for something a little different. I am on all Instagram and Youtube primarily under DontFeedSean.
