This article is part of my Dr. Phillips' Complete GuideToday I take you through Restaurant Row, on Sand Lake Road — a walk I take with clients and friends. Observation: Some houses may have different opening hours/conditions (e.g., renovations). It's worth checking before you go.
Restaurant Row: The Culinary Heart of Dr. Phillips
Restaurant Row showcases Orlando beyond the parks: renowned steakhouses, fresh seafood, international cuisine, and bars perfect for after-work. On weekends and at dinnertime, the area is bustling— reserve to avoid waiting, especially at the most popular addresses.
🥂 Fine Dining Restaurants
To celebrate, I usually recommend three Sand Lake classics. Norman's Orlando is a wild card: a seasonal menu focused on meat and seafood, precise service and a well-constructed menu. The H Orlando is a steakhouse with a Mediterranean soul — aged meats, open-fire cooking, and a bar that fills up at happy hour. Vines Grille & Wine Bar it is the address for wine lovers, with an extensive selection of labels; at the moment undergoes renovation until September/2025.
Norman's Orlando
Seasonal menu, sophisticated atmosphere — ideal for special occasions.
The H Orlando
Steakhouse with Mediterranean influences, aged meats and a great bar.
Vines Grille & Wine Bar
Extensive wine list; under renovation until September 2025.
🍷 Casual-Chic Experiences
For dinner with friends without losing the charm, I like Sixty Vines — dishes to share and wines by the glass on tap. The Big Fin Seafood Kitchen is my “go-to” for oysters and well-prepared fish. And the Bosphorous Turkish Cuisine is a must for anyone who enjoys Turkish cuisine; the bread lavash arrives at the table inflated and steaming.
Sixty Vines
Sharing plates + wines by the glass; modern and relaxed atmosphere.
Big Fin Seafood
Fresh seafood; local reference in oysters.
Bosphorous
Authentic Turkish cuisine; puffed lavash is a highlight.
🍔 More relaxed options
Not every night calls for formality. The Whiskey combines signature burgers and creative cocktails in a lively atmosphere. To ease your homesickness, Chima Steakhouse brings the full Brazilian buffet. And the Cedar's Restaurant It's great if you're looking for light Lebanese/Mediterranean dishes.
The Whiskey
Vibrant bar; artisanal burgers and creative drinks.
Chima Steakhouse
Brazilian steakhouse (rodizio) — a favorite among Brazilians.
Cedar's Restaurant
Lebanese/Mediterranean; light and healthy options.
🧭 Practical tips
If it's Friday or Saturday, make a reservation in advance—especially during holidays and event times. Some restaurants require dress code at dinner; avoid very sporty pieces. Most are kids-friendly, and the happy hours The H and Sixty Vines are great for saving money.
- 📌 Reservations: essential fine dining at peak times.
- 👔 Dress code: check the restaurant's website/Instagram.
- 👨👩👧 Children: High chairs and children's menus are common at Sand Lake.
- 🍷 Happy hour: good deals in the late afternoon (The H, Sixty Vines).
Want to explore Dr. Phillips beyond Restaurant Row? I put together a tour that suits schools, communities and gastronomy on the same day.
👉 Talk to me❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What is Restaurant Row in Dr. Phillips?
Do I need to reserve for dinner?
What are the most popular high-end restaurants?
Are there casual options for families?
Are there Brazilian restaurants in the area?
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