Expert Advice

I'm an Orlando Local and These Are the Top 3 Restaurants in Lake Nona Worth Trying

Add great food to your Lake Nona itinerary

Kassi P.
Moutherwatering overhead shot of table setting of oyesters Rockefeller and glass of white wine.

When people ask me about the Central Florida area, I always compare it to New York City. It's different, of course, but similar in that we have these little "boroughs" across the city, each with its flare. One of those areas is Lake Nona, a local up-and-comer complete with plenty of things to see and do, including delicious and innovative restaurants.         

Located east of the world-famous Orlando attractions, Lake Nona is a beautiful area with a ton of great food, including some eateries right on the water. And as a bonus, it's not too far from Hilton Grand Vacations' Orlando resorts. 

Picturesque aerial view of Orlando's urban sprawl at sunset, Florida.    

3 Spots to Check Out for Delicious Food in Lake Nona

Nona Blue

If you're looking for a tavern, neighborhood-bar environment, then Nona Blue is your spot.

One of my favorite things about this place is the wide variety of "shareables" on their menu, which you'll appreciate if you're anything like me — preferring to graze different dishes versus settling for just one meal. 

Order: the Spinach & Artichoke Dip and the Fire-Grilled Artichokes. (You may be sensing a theme, but they’re delicious.) 

Finally, if you can't make it to Lake Nona but happen to be in Northern Florida, check out the other location near Jacksonville.

Boxi Park Lake Nona

Look no further than Boxi Park if you're craving easy-going outdoor eats. This eatery (well, in this case, eateries fashioned from shipping containers) is a perfect spot to hop around and try a variety of eats. Personally, this is one of my favorite ways to eat because there are so many different options. (Read: perfect for when I'm feeling indecisive.) 

Point of view shot of a delicious casual-eats burger served in paper.    

And with a kid's playground, dog park, and a sand volleyball pit, it's a perfect spot for a family day out.

Insider tip: Check out the event schedule for live music and more fun things to enjoy.  

Canvas

I'm a sucker for a weekend brunch. So, whenever I get the chance, I like to try out all the local restaurants offering brunch around Orlando. Canvas' brunch is definitely on the list. There's something for everyone with creative takes on menu classics, such as oysters Rockefeller, eggs benedict and pancakes. If you like to start your day with a cup of joe or need a midday pick me up, Canvas Coffee is open daily from 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Order: the sweet tea fried chicken biscuit, wash it down with a seasonal craft cocktail, and enjoy your brunch alfresco, sweeping lake views included.  

Read “There’s More to Walt Disney World Than Rides — Here are the Best Restaurants to Treat Your Taste buds, According to a Local” for more must-try Orlando restaurants.

 

Hilton Grand Vacations Owner, Kassi P.

Kassi P.

Kassi is a three-time Explorer and Owner since 2018, when she and her husband, then in their late 20's, decided vacation ownership was the next step in building a life filled with travel. As Orlando locals, they enjoy staycations and exploring The City Beautiful, but have never actually stayed at their home resort, Hilton Grand Vacations at Tuscany Village.  

When she's not using her ClubPoints in Florida, this urban traveler has a love of international travel and a sweet spot for her second home — New York City, which is where she got engaged while staying at West 57th Street by Hilton Club. When asked about her long run in the Explorer program, Kassi says, "It's my goal to inspire someone to create new memories, get out and travel and make the most out of vacation ownership."


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