Strand - Orlando

We've been here several times now since we moved to the area and our experience has been great every time. The rotating menu always has interesting and deliciou... read more We've been here several times now since we moved to the area and our experience has been great every time. The rotating menu always has interesting and delicious food and drinks, and you can tell how fresh all the ingredients are. I almost always have to order an item from apps, dinner and dessert plus drinks because everything looks (and ends up tasting) so good and I may not get to order it again before the menu changes. I would recommend making a dinner reservation and you will have to do so at least a week sometimes longer out because it's so popular and a smaller, intimate setting. Otherwise you can easily wait an hour for a table or seat at the bar. Setting strikes a good balance between chill but upscale. Lots of greenery and wood furniture, beautiful bar area, and you can see them work in the kitchen which is always a vibe. The waiters/waitresses know the menu very well and make good recommendations for pairings. It was recommended once to order the french press decaf coffee with my dessert and now I almost always get it because it's just so good and you get the whole personal sized press brought out to you. They are always happy to see you and attentive. My husband has remarked that it reminds him when we go on vacation to very touristy, upscale dinner spots where the staff tend to be a bit more interested in contributing to that pampering, special ocassion feel. No complaints other than I wish they'd bring their brunch back because it was also incredible.

Would recommend. The place is small and has a wonderful ambiance. Service is good and menu is inventive and fun. Was very impressed by the food and the portion... read more Would recommend. The place is small and has a wonderful ambiance. Service is good and menu is inventive and fun. Was very impressed by the food and the portion size was perfect. Getting a reservation last minute was tough but with some effort successful. Looks like you can book a little further out without issue. This is a little gem and worth the money. Will be going back!

If you were the kind of diner, who loves finding restaurants and unexpected and unassuming locations, that serve quality food with great service, the strand is... read more If you were the kind of diner, who loves finding restaurants and unexpected and unassuming locations, that serve quality food with great service, the strand is your kind of place. Small and located in a tucked away strip center. You find a little dining room with a bar and kitchen. Space is small so you’ll most likely have to wait outside for your table. No matter. the staff will come out and serve you drinks while you’re sitting out on the street. The small menu has a variety of dishes. From fish, to state, some vegetarian options. They even have some great specials.We started off with the cheeseboard, and the Avocado Salad both of which were great. My duck was really the star of the show, tender, and perfectly cooked. Our friends had the burgers, and started off with the local fried mushrooms, which were nice touch. The desserts were great, the lemon cake, and the strawberry shortcake. We’re both outstanding. The wine list has very limited number of individual glasses, however, the prices for bottles was very reasonable and the options were great.Overall, it was a fantastic experience. Can’t say enough about the white staff, there, professional, friendly, knowledgeable, and really made the entire experience. Great. Make sure you make reservations in advance. Definitely find your way out here, it’s worthy of your visit.

I had an incredible dining experience! The fried green tomatoes with shrimp appetizer was a standout. My server was exceptionally attentive, checking in after e... read more I had an incredible dining experience! The fried green tomatoes with shrimp appetizer was a standout. My server was exceptionally attentive, checking in after every few bites to ensure I was enjoying my meal. She expertly described the flavors of the menu items, which really enhanced my appreciation of the food. Thank you, Sharina! Here’s a pro tip: don’t skip the candied rosemary leaves on top of the olive oil cake. They perfectly complement the orange, sweet cream, and soft cake—absolutely delicious! I had driven past this place numerous times without realizing it was a restaurant, but it truly is a hidden gem. For those who aren’t aware, it’s a shame for them, but those who do know are savoring the best the city has to offer. This spot is definitely worth a visit and will have you coming back for more. Enjoy your meal!

A charming, cozy restaurant in the Mills/50 area. The salted cod croquettes were tasty and not overly fishy. The pork belly was tender and full of flavor. For m... read more A charming, cozy restaurant in the Mills/50 area. The salted cod croquettes were tasty and not overly fishy. The pork belly was tender and full of flavor. For my main dish, I ordered the special, seared scallops, which were a generous portion and absolutely delicious. The only downside was the temperature inside the restaurant. Florida summers can be quite hot, and I wish they had turned down the air conditioning a few degrees.