I don't really like referring to any establishment as a "Hole in the wall." It's an outdated expression, but in the flashy times of hospitality we find ourselves in, places that dare not to have fanciful wallpaper, neon signs, arches in their decor, and modern pendant lighting are often thrown into that category. Deemed unhip or unworthy of your Instagram carousel, it's not really fair that we don't have a better way to categorize places that are unassumingly themselves.

True story - I once got a message from someone asking me why I posted a particular restaurant in Orlando once because they looked at the photos, and it didn't look to be all that impressive. Meanwhile, that restaurant went on to get a Bib Gourmand. It’s quite wild how we are constantly manipulated into thinking beautiful interior decor equals good food. In fact, it hurts that much more when we dine out at the latest beautiful space, only to be disappointed that the food is lackluster.

To be clear, if a place is gorgeous and the food is impressive - it’s a win/win. Unfortunately, that is just becoming rare unless you break the bank.

So what equates to an actual "hidden gem" or a hole in the wall? My personal definition is that it usually means it's tucked away in an unexpected place or perhaps hiding in plain sight with no online fanfare to serve as a siren to local foodies. It's usually small and informal, with no frills, just good food that few people often talk about.

I posted about a local taco spot and got this comment recently:

The people speak and I listen! So here’s a list I put together. There are two different rankings I’m using to get a sense of urgency on the places worth trying. If you are in the Area or Make the Trip.

Fun-Ko's Poke Bowls and Asian snacks

Where is it located: Inside of the maze that is the Mt. Dora Marketplace you’ll find a little window for Fun-ko’s Poke Bowls. The easiest way to enter is the alley that opens up to Donnelly (you’ll see the rainbow striped wall) and that takes you to an entrance with their name on it. The address is 334 N. Donnelly St Mount Dora, FL 32757,

Why it’s a spot you should know: Not only are the people there so sweet, but these bowls are incredibly fresh. I got burned out on poke, so it’s rarely my go-to now, but their bowls reinvigorated my interest.

Urgency Ranking: If you are in the area

Bánh mì Cali

Where is it located: Inside the Westside Crossing Shopping Center (same plaza where Enson Market is located)

Why it’s a spot you should know: It’s unassuming, no frills counter service, known for excellent Bánh mì sandwiches.

Urgency Ranking: If you are in the area

La Eskinna

Where is it located: This hidden food truck will take you down a random dirt road, and you’ll wonder where you are heading. Eventually, you will get to an open area with a food truck. The address is 1826 Saturn Blvd, Orlando, FL 32837,

Why it’s a spot you should know: There really isn’t anything instagrammable about ordering your food from your car and having it hand-delivered to you to eat there. It doesn’t matter that there is no ambiance to speak of; the food speaks volumes. These tacos are incredibly flavorful and offer a bit of foodie adventure to your day.

Urgency Ranking: If you are in the area

Rincon Latino

Where is it located: In a stand-alone building off Forsyth behind Full Sail University. The address is 3327 Forsyth Rd, Winter Park, FL 32792.

Why it’s a spot you should know: Delicious Spanish cuisine awaits with hearty portions at a reasonable price. Depending on who you get, they might not speak English, but you can still easily order from their menu without a problem.

Urgency Ranking: If you are in the area 

Uncle Tony’s Backyard BBQ

Where is it located: In a tiny strip off of Orange Avenue near East Lancaster. The address is 6807 S Orange Ave Ste. 110, Orlando, FL 32809.

Why it’s a spot you should know: Uncle Tony’s Backyard BBQ is warm and inviting inside with a small number of tables and counter seating. The BBQ is among some of the best the city has to offer; in my humble opinion, you just have to go and help spread the word.

Urgency Ranking: Make the Trip

GÀ TA

Where is it located: Off E. Colonial, a bit hidden inside the strip of shops that you can access from Hillcrest. The address is 1216 E Colonial Dr suite 6, Orlando, FL 32803.

Why it’s a spot you should know:  Whether you are inside this small restaurant or on its back patio, it’s a cute and inviting space. The Vietnamese menu has quite a few stellar dishes, like the dry Pho, and the egg coffee is a musty try.

Urgency Ranking: Make the Trip

jimotti’s

Where is it located:  Over in Sanford, South of downtown, you might have driven right by Jimotti’s without noticing it as it’s pretty non-descript. The address is 2545 S French Ave, Sanford, FL 32773

Why it’s a spot you should know:  This spot aligns perfectly with my preference for a quiet, out-of-the-way location over waiting in a long line of boozed-up loud talkers for a bowl of Ramen. Jimotti has not disappointed on any front. There were covered tables in the parking lot, no wait, fast service, and excellent food. 

Urgency Ranking: If you are in the area

Alex’s Fresh Kitchen

Where is it located:  Off the usual path, tucked away in a strip center in Casselberry. The address is 1015 SR 436 Casselberry, FL 32707. Alex has adjusted his hours to allow for pop-ups, and other revenue streams for his business, so check their hours Thursday through Sunday before you head over. Or keep an eye on where he is popping up.

Why it’s a spot you should know:  This spot gets a lot of love for its burgers which I can attest to, as well as the other dishes like this Chicken and Waffles tower. 

Urgency Ranking: If you are in the area

Tortas el Rey

Where is it located: Many authentic taco lovers know this spot, but it still deserves a place on the list. Located in an old Checkers, this is a great taco stop. The address is 6151 S Orange Blossom Trail Orlando, FL 32809. 

Why it’s a spot you should know:  Flavorful tacos that won’t cost you $5 a pop, and some seriously good horchata. The drive-thru line moves slow, so be patient. 

Urgency Ranking: Make the Trip

Mediterranean Street Food By Shishco

Where is it located: This colorful walk-up window (with outdoor seating) is at the intersection of 17-92 and Lake Avenue (also in this center is Copper Rocket and Jazz Tastings). The address is 118 Lake Ave, Maitland, FL 32751.

Why it’s a spot you should know:  It’s an excellent spot for a quick eat or delivery that serves up flavorful Mediterranean fare and delicious hummus.

Urgency Ranking: If you are in the area

Curry Bowl

Where is it located: Unlike many other places people call hidden gems, the Curry Bowl is quite literally hidden inside an area filled with corporate offices off of Keller Road in Maitland. 1700 Fennell St Ste 3 Maitland, FL 32751.

Why it’s a spot you should know:  Orlando has been picking up the pace when it comes to good Indian food, so I’m not saying it’s the best you are going to find in town, but it’s a solid option, especially for lunch if you are on that side of town.

Urgency Ranking: If you are in the area

Julia’s Pizza

Where is it located: In an often-forgotten about strip center on Edgewater near Lockhart. 5075 Edgewater Dr, Orlando, FL 32810.

Why it’s a spot you should know:  Pizza is always hard to recommend because we all have distinctive likes and dislikes, and while their pizza is decent, it’s the stromboli that has my heart.

Urgency Ranking: If you are in the area

Super Rico Colombian Restaurant & Bar

Where is it located:  Located in downtown Orlando at W Central Blvd, Orlando, FL 32801.

Why it’s a spot you should know: This is another spot I think many people miss if they don’t work or live downtown. While the space is definitely cute, it’s not overly trendy, and not exactly known as a highly photographed or shared spot by food influencers. Which is a shame because the food is always flavorful and satisfying.

Urgency Ranking: If you are in the area

Orlando City Deli

Where is it located: on OBT in a tiny strip across the street from the police station. The address is 330 S Orange Blossom Trl Orlando, FL 32805.

Why it’s a spot you should know: I’ve gotten Chopped Cheese from here twice, and loved it both times. Unfortunately, I can’t speak to any other menu items, but that and the friendly owners were enough for me to return. 

Urgency Ranking: If you are in the area

Picasso Moments Bakery, Cafe, & Boba Tea

Where is it located: In the Walmart shopping plaza at John Young and Sandlake Road. The address is 8231 S John Young Pkwy Orlando, FL 32819.

Why it’s a spot you should know: While I prefer the Boba in the plaza over at Spring Tea, it’s the baked goods that I really enjoyed here. Try the Snowing Cream Cheese Bread! 

Urgency Ranking: If you are in the area

Dali’s Lao Thai Cafe

Where is it located: Located in Sanford in a small strip. The address is 1181 Rinehart Rd. Sanford, Fl. 32771. 

Why it’s a spot you should know: This spot has always done me right on an order of Beef Laab, some spring rolls, and a Thai tea. If you look on Yelp, the reviews are mostly good, but it appears there may have been some issues with consistency. However, I’ve eaten here a handful of times, and the flavor has always been on point.

Urgency Ranking: If you are in the area

FRANCISCO’S TACO MADNESS TRUCK

Where is it located: This taco truck has moved around a bit, but most recently, you can find it at 704 Prairie Lake Drive Fern Park, FL. They tend to post operating hours on their Facebook page so it’s best to check that before you head over. 

Why it’s a spot you should know: I’ve been eating at this truck since they used to park in front of the Lowes in Fern Park, and they’ve never wavered in their deliciousness. The quesadilla is good too. 

Urgency Ranking: If you are in the area

MAD CRAB SEAFOOD & wings

Where is it located: In Eatonville on Kennedy, you’ll easily spot the Mad Crab little red building. The address is 325 W Kennedy Blvd Orlando, FL 32810.

Why it’s a spot you should know: The fact that I am not a seafood gal and I love to tear these meals up says a lot about how the food is prepared and the seasoning. You can order for delivery if you live nearby or order for takeout.

Urgency Ranking: If you are in the area

The Neighborhood Eatery

Where is it located: In downtown Orlando on Magnolia, I’m convinced that the only people who know about this spot are those who work or live downtown. The address is 231 N Magnolia Ave, Orlando, FL 32801.

Why it’s a spot you should know: By the name, you wouldn’t realize this is a Korean spot. I’ve eaten here several times, and there has never been a miss. Large portions, friendly and fast service, and great options like the Mills/50 Bowl. It’s an underrated downtown spot, for sure.

Urgency Ranking: If you are in the area

HEBERS CUBAN cafe

Where is it located: In Apopka, you will find Hebers in the Wekiva Riverwalk shopping center. The address is 2131 E Semoran Blvd, Apopka, FL 32703.

Why it’s a spot you should know: Good Cuban is hard to find in Central Florida, and while Hebers isn’t perfect (also note they abstain from using pork, so a Cuban sandwich here will be a bit different), there are other items you can get that still are worth a visit. I usually stick with the Palomilla or Chicken platters with tostones or maduros and, of course, a cortadito on the side.

Urgency Ranking: If you are in the area

UPSALA GROCERY

Where is it located: Inside of a convenience store in Sanford what is known for having a huge selection of craft beer, you will also find this food counter. The address is 300 Upsala Rd, Sanford, FL 32771.

Why it’s a spot you should know: Firstly, it is worth checking out if you are a craft beer lover. Secondly, while you are there, you might as well see what’s on the menu, like this Spicy Chicken Tikka Masala sandwich. There is nowhere to eat; this is a grab-and-go situation.

Urgency Ranking: If you are in the area

PAPA BEE’S

Where is it located: Over in Longwood, locals would laugh at the idea of this being a hidden gem because it’s so well-known and beloved. However, if you aren’t familiar with that part of town, you may not have heard of Papa Bee’s, which is usually rated one of the best spots to get wings. The address is 480 S Ronald Reagan Blvd, Longwood, FL 32750.

Why it’s a spot you should know: The Garlic Parmesan Wings. That’s all.

Urgency Ranking: Make the Trip 

southern style bbq

Where is it located: This food truck is usually parked at the Edgewater and Lee Road intersection. Look for the SSBBQ flags. The address you can use to find it is 4890 Edgewater Dr Orlando, FL 32804.

Why it’s a spot you should know: Super friendly service out of this food truck, along with hearty portions and mouth-watering ribs. All the sauces are made in-house.

Urgency Ranking: If you are in the area

AUNT GINGIBREADS

Where is it located: There isn’t much in downtown Apopka regarding local food, but Aunt Gingibreads makes up for that. The address is 409 S Park Ave, Apopka, FL 32703.

Why it’s a spot you should know: The baked goods will leave you longing for more. I suggest a sampler box of the best of AGB. She also takes custom orders. 

Urgency Ranking: If you are in the area

FRUTA MIX

Where is it located: There are two locations now, but the one I’ve been to multiple times is in Ocoee. The address is 253 Ocoee Apopka Rd, Ocoee, FL 347.

Why it’s a spot you should know:  This sweet little family-owned eater not only has tacos but lots of sweets to try.

Urgency Ranking: If you are in the area

Cubans on Wheels

Where is it located: This food truck is near the airport, hiding behind a Denny’s, but it is well worth the drive to get to it. The address is 5749 T G Lee Blvd, Orlando, FL 32822. 

Why it’s a spot you should know: Not only is the food delicious and flavorful, but the portions are enormous. I’ve never had flan so good come from a food truck.

Urgency Ranking: Make the Trip

Sushi and Seoul

Where is it located: Over in downtown Sanford, tucked inside Celery City Craft, you can see members of Sushi and Seoul working hard through a literal hole in the wall of this bar. You order and then grab a seat in the outdoor courtyard with a beverage from the bar for a chill lunch or dinner. 114 S Palmetto Ave, Sanford, FL 32771.

Why it’s a spot you should know: Sushi and Seoul has been around for a while now with their popular food truck, but now you don’t have to wonder where they are and how to get your hands on their avocado tower. 

Urgency Ranking: If you are in the area

Meng’s Kitchen

Where is it located: You’ll find Meng’s Kitchen inside the iFresh Supermarket at E. Colonial and Bumby. They are also on UberEats. 2415 E Colonial Dr, Orlando, FL 32803

Why it’s a spot you should know: If you aren’t familiar with Hainanese Chicken, it’s a dish of poached chicken and seasoned rice, often served with chili sauce and cucumber garnishes. It may look simple, but it’s packed with flavor, and Meng’s does a great job of satisfying this craving!

Urgency Ranking: If you are in the area

gnarly cuban

Where is it located: You may ask, how is something located in the East End not instagrammable? Ok you got me, this one is instagram-friendly. However, it’s still a bit hidden because not everyone realizes that on the second floor of the East End you’ll find The Neighbors, half bar, half local good. That is also where you will now find empanadas from the Gnarly Cuban in the space, so make sure to get up there! 

Why it’s a spot you should know: Made fresh daily, these empanadas are the perfect quick snack, with a handy sauce bar nearby. They have a vegan option as well. 

Urgency Ranking: If you are in the area

Best Fish and Chicken Wings

Where is it located: On 4th Street in Sanford; you’ve probably driven by this building and wondered what exactly it was with a name that just says Best Fish and Chicken Wings on the exterior. Unbeknownst to many, a sweet Korean couple is inside waiting to give you some delicious eats. The address is 405 E 4th St, Sanford, FL 32771.

Why it’s a spot you should know: The menu has a few Korean favorites, along with wings, but what you must ask for is the Korean wings, which will come with rice, some banchan, and a small yogurt drink. It’s basically a meal for two. They don’t answer the phone, so don’t call ahead. 

Urgency Ranking: If you are in the area

P’s Viet Mi Cafe

Where is it located: In the shopping center at John Young Road and Sandlake (where there are quite a few foodie gems to be found) you will find P’s Viet Mi. The address is 8475 S John Young Pkwy, Orlando, FL 32819.

Why it’s a spot you should know: This spot is an Asian fusion where you’ll find a mix of noodle soups and noodle bowls alongside Crispy fries loaded with Mexican Elote, Cotija cheese, and jalapenos. The Bánh mì here is in my top rankings for Orlando (for whatever that means to anyone), and the delicious Vietnamese coffee is so strong you immediately feel jittery. 

Urgency Ranking: If you are in the area

sister honey’s

Where is it located: In the SODO area, you’ll find this tiny bakery tucked in a strip off Michigan Avenue. The address is 247 E Michigan St, Orlando, FL 32806.

Why it’s a spot you should know: Serious foodies know about Sister Honey’s and just how amazing the treats are that are cranked out of this tiny bakery. For those that don’t know, you most likely won’t come across her goods on your social media feeds too often, but this is a must-stop for cakes, cookies, and the like.

Ranking: Make a Trip

shiraz market

Where is it located: At the intersection of 17-92 and 434. The address is 188 S US Hwy 17 92, Longwood, FL 32750

Why it’s a spot you should know: This Persian Market is full of goodies you can take home and a food counter where you can order kebab platters that are sure to please.

Ranking: Make a Trip

chi-kin

Where is it located: On Mills close to E. Colonial near the Strand. The address is 813 N Mills Ave, Orlando, FL 32803

Why it’s a spot you should know: Chi-Kin teeters the line of not-so-instagrammable because there is an effort in their space, but I think it can often get overlooked. I personally find their Gochugang chicken tenders completely addicting, not to mention I can never finish them in one sitting.

Urgency Ranking: If you are in the area

Consistency is a huge component of me recommending these spots, so most if not all I’ve visited more than once. I hope if you visit them you find them to be as good as I have.

As always nothing here is sponsored or hosted. All paid for personally.