Today we reveal the winners of the Orlando Sentinel's 18th annual Foodie Awards, our readers' favorite places to eat and drink in the Orlando area. I have noted my picks, too, but the main focus is your take on Central Florida's dining scene.

A year of impressive newcomers (The Osprey Tavern, Two Chefs Seafood & Oyster Bar, Urbain 40), stalwarts stepping up their game (The Coop, K Restaurant, Tako Cheena) and creative chefs (Soco's Greg Richie, Luma on Park and Prato's Brandon McGlamery) have brought some surprises to the winner's circle.

Chains did well but no longer dominate your choices, a great indication of a more diverse dining scene, as is the absence of the usual stars at the top. That doesn't mean those restaurants have fallen in quality, it illustrates that what was once the exception is now the rule.

These types of awards can never truly reflect the culinary talent in Central Florida. Each eatery has unique attributes that often can't be categorized. When I have to winnow my picks to just one or the occasional tie, I find myself wishing for other categories so that all my favorites receive a proper nod.

But there's one thing we can all agree on: Central Florida's dining scene is vibrant, with many more players just waiting on the horizon.

Click the links below to jump to that category:

AFRICAN

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BAKERY

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BARBECUE

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BAR MENU

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BREAKFAST

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BUFFET

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BURGER

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BRUNCH

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CARIBBEAN

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CHAIN

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CHEAP EATS

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COFFEE SHOP

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CHINESE

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CUBAN

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DINNER SHOW

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FOOD TRUCK

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FRENCH

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FROZEN TREATS

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GERMAN

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GOURMET STORE

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GREEK

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INDIAN

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HOTEL RESTAURANT

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ITALIAN

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JAPANESE

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KOREAN

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LATE NIGHT

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LATIN

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MEXICAN

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MIDDLE EASTERN

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NEWCOMER

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OUTDOOR DINING

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OVERALL

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PET FRIENDLY

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PIZZA

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POLISH

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POWER LUNCH

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PUERTO RICAN

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ROMANTIC

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SANDWICH

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SEAFOOD

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SOUL

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SPANISH

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STEAKHOUSE

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SUSHI

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TAKEOUT

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TEX-MEX

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THAI

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THEME PARK

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VEGETARIAN

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VIETNAMESE

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WINE BAR

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WINE LIST

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WINGS

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African

Boma — Flavors of Africa

Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge, 407-939-3463

RUNNERS-UP

•Nile Ethiopian (Orlando)

•Sanaa (Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge — Kidani Village)

CRITIC'S CHOICE

Nile Ethiopian

7048 International Drive, Orlando

407-354-0026; nile07.com

Nile Ethiopian opened in 2006 and quickly became one of Central Florida's treasures. Lots of tourists seek it out, but more locals should discover this wonderful cuisine. I love the spongy and subtly sour injera bread used to sop and pick up foods. Don't miss the spicy stews, cooked vegetables and salads.

Bakery

Charlie's Gourmet Pastries

3213 Curry Ford Road

Dover Shores Shopping Center, Orlando

407-898-9561;

charliesgourmetpastries.com

RUNNERS-UP

•Se7en Bites (Orlando)

•Ben's Bake Shop (Altamonte Springs)

CRITIC'S CHOICE

Bake Me A Cake

710 Orange Ave., Altamonte Springs

407-830-9006; bakemeacake.net

RUNNER-UP

•Se7en Bites (Orlando)

I could have easily gone for a tie between Bake Me a Cake and Se7en Bites. But I went with one of our Central Florida — often unsung — culinary heroes: Mercedes Strachwsky, the queen of baking. Along with husband Alex and her family, they form a team of gifted bakers revered by colleagues for their ability to consistently produce treats with a sense of elegance and playfulness. She makes fondant that you want to eat. From cookies to any intricate design you desire, Bake Me a Cake can make your confection dreams come true.

Barbecue

Bubbalous Bodacious BBQ

Various locations including 1471 Lee Road, Winter Park

407-628-1212; bubbalous.com

RUNNERS-UP

•4 Rivers Smokehouse (various locations)

•Westgate Smokehouse Grill (Westgate Lakes Resort & Spa, Orlando)

CRITIC'S CHOICE

Porkie's Original BBQ

256 E. Main St., Apopka

407-880-3351; porkiesapopka.com

RUNNERS-UP

•Keller's Real Smoked Bar-B-Q (Altamonte Springs, Lake Mary)

•4 Rivers Smokehouse (various locations)

I love 4 Rivers Smokehouse, Bubbalous, Westgate and Keller's. But I drifted old school once again with the folks at Porkie's in Apopka. It's a stalwart that doesn't get as much media love as it deserves. It just keeps on cooking low and slow.

Bar menu

Marlow's Tavern

Various locations including 547 N. Alafaya Trail, Building J1, Orlando

407-757-0606; marlowstavern.com

RUNNERS-UP

•Nona Blue (Orlando)

•The Cloak & Blaster (Orlando)

CRITIC'S CHOICE

Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar

8030 Via Dellagio Way, Orlando, 407-352-5706; and 933 N. Orlando Ave., Winter Park, 407-699-9463

flemingssteakhouse.com

RUNNERS-UP

•The Pharmacy (Orlando)

•The Whiskey (Orlando)

This was a really hard category for me and I wholeheartedly approve of your choice. Fleming's consistent happy-hour specials are what put it over the top for me. It's a food-forward bar adjacent to a great restaurant. And if you like wine, the "Fleming's 100," their award-winning collection of 100 wines by the glass, is hard to beat.

Breakfast

Shakers American Cafe

1308 Edgewater Drive, Orlando (College Park)

407-422-3534; shakerscafe.com

RUNNERS-UP

•Keke's Breakfast Cafe (various locations)

•First Watch (various locations)

CRITIC'S CHOICE: TIE

Mason Jar

37534 State Road 19, Umatilla

352-589-2535

The Coop

610 W. Morse Blvd., Winter Park

407-843-2667; asouthernaffair.com

I still believe most of us eat breakfast close to home or the office, which is why I went with a tie for the third year in a row. At least once a month you'll find me on a Saturday morning at the Mason Jar with unsweet tea, two eggs over easy, an ethereal fluffy biscuit, sweet-salty bacon and crisp shredded hash browns. In town, The Coop sets an a.m. table with a mighty Southern drawl.

Brunch

Grand Bohemian Hotel

325 S. Orange Ave., Orlando (downtown)

407-313-9000; grandbohemianhotel.com

RUNNERS-UP

•Santiago's Bodega (Orlando)

•Soco (Thornton Park, Orlando)

CRITIC'S CHOICE

Soco

629 E. Central Blvd., Orlando (Thornton Park)

407-849-1800; socothorntonpark.com

RUNNERS-UP

•Cask & Larder (Winter Park)

Santiago's Bodega (Orlando)

The energy at Soco reflects the vibrancy of Orlando's neighborhood communities. The food is familiar with innovative twists on Southern fare. Soco has an order-off-the-menu brunch. The Grand Bohemian brunch buffet is swell, too.

Buffet

Texas de Brazil

5259 International Drive, Suite F1, Orlando

407-355-0355; texasdebrazil.com

RUNNERS-UP

•Golden Corral (various locations)

•Sweet Tomatoes (various locations)

CRITIC'S CHOICE

Villa de Flora

Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center

6000 W. Osceola Parkway, Kissimmee

407-586-1114; marriott.com

I chose Villa de Flora again for the setting and price. The hotel's atrium is awash with natural light, and the seasonal buffet is $40 for adults and $20 for children ages 4-12. Seriously good. But if I am in protein-packing mood, I am right behind you at Texas de Brazil.

RUNNER-UP

•Mission Inn Resort & Club (Howey-in-the-Hills)

Burger

Nona Blue Modern Tavern

9685 Lake Nona Village Place Drive, Orlando

407-313-0027; nonablue.com

RUNNERS-UP

•Five Guys Burgers (various locations)

•Teak Neighborhood Grill (Orlando, Metrowest)

CRITIC'S CHOICE

K Restaurant

1710 Edgewater Drive, Orlando

407-872-2332; krestaurant.net

RUNNERS-UP

•The Tap Room at Dubsdread (Orlando)

•B&B Junction (Orlando)

I see your Nona Blue sandwich and raise you K's daily house grind of beef tenderloin and brisket on a brioche roll topped with cheddar, lettuce, tomato and bacon. And best of all, it's only $5 every Wednesday at lunch.

Caribbean

Bahama Breeze

Various locations including 499 E. Altamonte Drive, Altamonte Springs

407-831-2929; bahamabreeze.com

RUNNERS-UP

•Cuba Libre (Orlando)

•Golden Krust (various locations)

CRITIC'S CHOICE

Singh's Roti Shop

5244 Old Winter Garden Road, Orlando

407-253-2900; singhsrotishopnyc.com

There is much to like about Singh's, but I have a soft spot for the doubles sandwiches, a popular fast food in Trinidad and Tobago.

RUNNER-UP

Golden Krust

Chain

Seasons 52

7700 Sand Lake Road, Orlando, 407-354-5212; and 463 E. Altamonte Drive, Altamonte Springs, 407-767-1252; seasons52.com

RUNNERS-UP

•Marlow's Tavern

•Olive Garden (various locations)

CRITIC'S CHOICE

Mellow Mushroom

Various locations including 18221 U.S. Highway 441, Mount Dora;

352-735-8257; mellowmushroom.com

All of these entities are laudable, but I love that Mellow Mushroom's business model encourages eclectic, art-filled, local-centric environments. From Mount Dora to Sanford to Winter Park, there is no cookie-cutter building plan. But the menu's all rock the same consistency and quality ingredients. I love the mighty meat pizza, caprese salad and small calzone.

RUNNER-UP

•4 Rivers Smokehouse (various locations)

Cheap Eats

Gringos Locos

20 E. Washington St., Orlando, 407-841-5626; 2406 E. Robinson St., Orlando, 407-896-5626

gringoslocos.net

RUNNERS-UP

•Tako Cheena (Orlando)

•Tijuana Flats (various locations)

CRITIC'S CHOICE

Tako Cheena

932 N. Mills Ave., Orlando

321-236-7457; takocheenaorlando.com

RUNNERS-UP

•Black Bean Deli (Orlando, Winter Park)

•Beefy King (Orlando)

I can't argue with the budget-friendly Gringos Locos. But Tako Cheena delivers as well and its new Mills 50 location will seat more people. We all win.

Chinese

P.F. Chang's

Winter Park Village, 436 N. Orlando Ave., Winter Park, 407-622-0188; Mall at Millenia, 4200 Conroy Road, Orlando, 407-345-2888

pfchangs.com

•Ming's Bistro (Orlando Mills 50)

•Chan's Chinese Cuisine (Orlando)

CRITIC'S CHOICE

Chuan Lu Garden

1101 E. Colonial Drive, Orlando

407-896-8966

Ming's Bistro is my dim sum go-to and Chuan Lu Garden won my nod once again because it offers one of the few authentic Sichuan experiences in Central Florida. The cuisine is known for the skillful use of peppercorns, peppers, onions, garlic and other bold flavors.

Coffee shop

Barnie's CoffeeKitchen

29 S. Orange Ave., Orlando, 407-722-8363; 118 S. Park Ave., Winter Park, 407-629-0042

barniescoffeekitchen.com

RUNNERS-UP

•Starbucks (various locations)

•Drunken Monkey Coffee Bar (Orlando)

CRITIC'S CHOICE

Vespr Craft Coffee & Allures

626 N. Alafaya Trail, Orlando

407-476-3093; thevespr.com

RUNNERS-UP

•Axum (Winter Garden)

•Downtown Credo (Orlando)

Here's a hearty toast to coffeehouses that have demonstrated dedication to environmental responsibility, ethical business practices and fairly traded ingredients.

Cuban

Zaza New Cuban Diner

Various locations in cluding 417 N. Alafaya Trail, Orlando

407-986-5554; zazacubandiner.com

RUNNERS-UP

•Black Bean Deli (Orlando, Winter Park)

•Plancha (Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort)

CRITIC'S CHOICE

Zaza New Cuban Diner

RUNNER-UP

•Padrino's Cuban Bistro (Orlando)

Glad we're on the same page here. But all the runners-up were very close behind. Plancha and Padrino's offer more upscale settings and modern interpretations of traditional Cuban fare, but Zaza and Black Bean Deli are pure comfort zones.

Dinner show

Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament

4510 W. Vine St., Kissimmee

866-543-9637; medievaltimes.com

RUNNERS-UP

•Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue (Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort)

•Sleuths Mystery Dinner Theatre (Orlando)

CRITIC'S CHOICE

Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue

4510 Fort Wilderness Trail, Orlando

407-939-3463

You went for dinner with a side of jousting, I went for outrageous fried chicken, corn bread, strawberry shortcake — and slapstick comedy. Hoop-Dee-Doo has been going strong for more than 40 years, making it one of the longest- running shows at Walt Disney World.

Food truck

Korean BBQ Taco Box

RUNNERS-UP

•Simply Divine Food Truck (simplydivinefoodtruck.com)

•SwedeDISH Food Truck (swededishfoodtruck.com)

CRITIC'S CHOICE

900 Degreez Pizza

(900degreezpizza.com)

I am sticking with last year's choice. To say that 900 Degreez stands out in a traffic jam of mobile food vendors is an understatement. This 35-foot converted container truck is equipped with an Italian wood-fired oven that can cook a pizza in 90 seconds. An all-glass exterior lets customers view the chefs at work. The pizza rocks.

French

Chez Vincent

533 W. New England Ave., Winter Park

407-251-5107; chezvincent.com

RUNNERS-UP

•Le Coq au Vin (Orlando)

•Café de France (Winter Park)

CRITIC'S CHOICE

Le Coq au Vin

4800 S. Orange Ave, Orlando

407-851-6980; lecoqauvinrestaurant.com

Since 1976, Le Coq au Vin has been a place locals have counted on for unpretentious fine dining. With a menu that celebrates the best of classic French cookery, it is the go-to place for special-occasion meals as well as superb suppers.

Frozen treats

Jeremiah's Italian Ice

Various locations including

3988 Town Center Blvd., Orlando (Hunter's Creek)

407-988-3967; jeremiahsice.com

RUNNERS-UP

•Yogurtland (Winter Park)

•Mike's Italian Ice (Orlando)

CRITIC'S CHOICE

Ice Cream Social Club food truck

icecreamsocialclub.biz

RUNNER-UP

Ritters Frozen Custard (Clermont, Port Orange)

Jeremiah's menu covers a wide range of frozen treats. The Social Club dessert trailer is designed to look like an old- fashioned ice-cream parlor. The concept uses a liquid nitrogen system to create premium ice creams, gelatos, sorbets and frozen libations. I think we decided on good multiple choices for brain-freeze heaven.

German

Hollerbach's Willow Tree Cafe

205 E. First St., Sanford

407-321-2204; willowtreecafe.com

RUNNERS-UP

•Schumann's Jäger Haus (Orlando)

•Biergarten Restaurant (German Pavilion, Epcot)

CRITIC'S CHOICE

Hollerbach's Willow Tree Café

RUNNERS-UP

•Germans (Kissimmee)

•The Bavarian Haus (Mount Dora)

I returned to Hollerbach's this year. Since late 2001, Theo Hollerbach and his family have built a loyal following of hungry revelers looking for authentic food at a fair price. Try any of the schnitzels or the sauerbraten and save room for dessert. Hollerbach calls it German gemuetlichkeit, a sense of well-being and happiness that comes from enjoying the company of friends and family while savoring good food and drink. I call it a mighty fine time.

Gourmet store

The Fresh Market

Various locations including 3775 Lake Emma Road, Lake Mary

407-804-9838; thefreshmarket.com

RUNNERS-UP

•Whole Foods Market (Altamonte Springs, Orlando, Winter Park)

•Cavallari Gourmet (Lake Mary and Oviedo)

CRITIC'S CHOICE: TIE

KaDee Kay Gourmet Kitchen Products

237 W. Fourth Ave., Mount Dora

352-383-3600; kadeekay.com

Petty's Meat Market

2141 W. State Road 434, Longwood

407-862-0400; pettysmeats.com

I like all of your choices. KaDee Kay has become a destination for cooks from all over Central Florida. You need it? KaDee Kay probably has it — and at a reasonable price. When Allyson Hidalgo's family opened Petty's Meats in Longwood in 1979 there were few gourmet stores in the greater Orlando area. Today the word "meats" in the name is only a portion of what has drawn customers to Petty's for more than three decades. And free wine and beer samples while you shop is a Petty's signature.

Greek

Mediterranean Blue

435 E. Michigan St., Orlando

407-422-2583; mediterraneanblue.net

RUNNERS-UP

•Krazy Greek Kitchen (Lake Mary)

•Greek Corner (Orlando)

CRITIC'S CHOICE

Taverna Opa

9101 International Drive, Orlando

40-351-8660; opaorlando.com

The closing of Orlando's Greek Flame Taverna, longtime owner of the category, brought some stalwarts back into the spotlight. I agree Mediterranean Blue is a real treat. The food and friendly service will keep you coming back. The same can be said about Taverna Opa. I return for the signature lamb chops, tzatziki and more.

Indian

Tamarind Indian Cuisine

12309 E. Colonial Drive, Orlando, 407-237-0920; 501 N. Orlando Ave., Winter Park, 321-207-0760; tamarindfl.com

RUNNERS-UP

•Kohinoor (Altamonte Springs)

•Bombay Café (Orlando)

CRITIC'S PICK

Mynt

535 W. New England Ave, Winter Park (Hannibal Square)

407-636-7055; myntorlando.com

RUNNER-UP

•Royal Indian Cuisine (Casselberry)

I like your choice, but for me, Mynt is a mint-condition player in this category.

Hotel restaurant

The Boheme

Grand Bohemian Hotel, 325 S. Orange Ave., Orlando

407-313-9000; grandbohemianhotel.com

RUNNERS-UP

Hamilton's (Alfond Inn, Winter Park)

Spencer's for Steaks & Chops (Hilton Orlando, Destination Way)

CRITIC'S CHOICE

Victoria & Albert's

Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, 4401 Floridian Way, Lake Buena Vista

407-939-3862; victoria-alberts.com

RUNNER-UP

California Grill (Disney's Contemporary Resort)

We both went with classy and elegant, and your runners-up are fab. There aren't enough categories to give V&A's chef Scott Hunnel his due. He helms one of the most expensive restaurants in Central Florida and every person who dines there gets their money's worth every night.

Italian

Vincenzo Cucina Italiana

8255 International Drive, Orlando

407-745-4030; vincenzosorlando.com

RUNNERS-UP

•Stefano's Trattoria (Winter Springs)

•Ravello (Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort)

CRITIC'S CHOICE

Prato

124 N. Park Ave., Winter Park

407-262-0050; prato-wp.com

RUNNERS-UP

•Christini's Ristorante Italiano (Orlando)

•Enzo's on the Lake (Longwood)

Prato's name refers to Tuscany's second-largest city and the hub of the Slow Food movement. There is an appealing energy to the lively vibe that suits the menu and rustic charm. Prato brings a fresh approach to Italian fare that was much needed in Central Florida. But for classic Italian, Enzo's and Christini's are hard to beat.

Japanese

RanGetsu Restaurant & Orchid Lounge

901 S. Orlando Ave., Maitland

407-345-0044; rangetsu.com

RUNNERS-UP

•Imperial Dynasty (Longwood)

•Kobe Japanese Steakhouse (various locations)

CRITIC'S CHOICE

Yuki Hana Japanese Fusion

3635 Aloma Ave., Oviedo

407-695-8808; sushioviedo.com

RUNNERS-UP

•Dragonfly Modern Izakaya & Sushi (Orlando)

•Sushi Pop (Oviedo)

Look at you, breaking the Kobe winning streak. Yuki Hana offers innovative sushi and eclectic presentations of Asian fare. The food is classic with modern twists.

Korean

Korea House

1155 W. State Road 434, Longwood, 407-767-5918; 4501 E. Colonial Drive, Orlando, 407-896-5994; koreahouseorlando.com

RUNNERS-UP

•Korean BBQ Taco Box food truck (Facebook)

•Shin Jung Korean Restaurant (Orlando)

CRITIC'S CHOICE

Korea House

RUNNERS-UP

•Beewon Korean Cuisine (Orlando)

•Shin Jung Korean Restaurant (Orlando)

Korea House in Longwood has been a longtime go-to restaurant when I crave authentic Korean fare — especially the ubiquitous bulgoki or a bowl of sizzling beef dolsot bibimbap. The eatery has won several Orlando Sentinel Foodie Awards in the ethnic specialty category. When the Seminole County restaurant added a smaller Orange County sibling on Orlando's Colonial Drive, I was thrilled: My fave dishes no longer require a trek up Interstate 4.

Late night

Gringos Locos

20 E. Washington St., Orlando, 407-841-5626; 2406 E. Robinson St., Orlando, 407-896-562620

gringoslocos.com

RUNNERS-UP

•Pom Pom's Tea House & Sandwicheria (Orlando)

•Tako Cheena (Orlando)

CRITIC'S CHOICE

Donut King

208 S. U.S. Highway 27, Minneola (352-243-4046); and 3716 Howell Branch Road, Winter Park (321-316-4817);

thedonutking.com

For this category my nod still goes to the original Lake County location with its 24-7 operation. Not only are there doughnuts, but the Castle burgers (think homemade White Castles) and gumbo and jambalaya rock the fourth-meal universe.

Latin

Spanish River Grill

737 E. Third Ave., New Smyrna Beach

386-424-6991; thespanishrivergrill.com

RUNNERS-UP

•Black Bean Deli (Orlando and Winter Park)

•Simply Divine Food Truck (simplydivinefoodtruck.com)

CRITIC'S CHOICE

Spanish River Grill

Modern twists on Latino fare are the backbone of the vibrant menu shepherded by chefs Henry and Michele Salgado. The seasonal menu has nice turns in several places, which makes each visit more exciting than the last. Look for big changes this year.

Mexican

Cocina 214

151 E. Welbourne Ave., Winter Park

407-790-7997; cocina214.com

RUNNERS-UP

•Chuy's (various locations)

•Garibaldi (Apopka)

CRITIC'S CHOICE

El Tenampa

11242 S. Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando

407-850-9499; eltenampaorlando.net

RUNNERS-UP

•Tacos El Rancho (Orlando)

•Taquitos Jalisco (Winter Garden)

El Tenampa Authentic Mexican Restaurant in Orlando is a family owned restaurant serving authentic fare made from original recipes. For real tacos, I love both my runners-up.

Middle Eastern

Shish.Co Mezze & Grill

118 Lake Ave., Maitland

407-661-1336; shishcomezzegrill.com

RUNNERS-UP

•Bosphorous Turkish Cuisine (Orlando and Winter Park)

•Cedars Lebanese Restaurant (Orlando)

CRITIC'S CHOICE

Bosphorous Turkish Cuisine

7600 Dr. Phillips Blvd., Suite 108, Orlando, 407-352-6766; 108 S. Park Ave., Winter Park, 407-644-8609

bosphorousrestaurant.com

Bosphorous is an adventure for all the senses. With diverse flavors and textures, this eatery is one of Central Florida's most engaging experiences.

Newcomer

Caprino's Italian

7782 Winter Garden Vineland Road, Windermere

407-500-2433; caprinositalian.com

RUNNERS-UP

•Chuck Wagon Home Cooking (Apopka)

•Baoery Asian Gastropub (Orlando, Thornton Park)

CRITIC'S CHOICE

Urbain 40 American Brasserie & Lounge

8000 Via Dellagio Way, Orlando (Dr. Phillips)

407-872-2640; urbain40.com

RUNNERS-UP

•The Osprey Tavern (Orlando)

•Two Chefs Seafood & Oyster Bar (Orlando)

There are great moments to be found in Central Florida restaurants. From service to the food, the community boasts many top-notch dining destinations. But I can count on one hand the number of eateries that completely kill it. Count Urbain 40 American Brasserie & Lounge on that list. A newcomer to the Sand Lake Road lineup, the owners have transformed the former Cantina Laredo into a swell 1940s-style neighborhood eatery. And I do mean swell.

Outdoor dining

Hillstone

215 S. Orlando Ave., Winter Park

407-740-4005; hillstone.com

RUNNERS-UP

•Park Plaza Gardens (Winter Park)

•PB&G (Four Seasons Orlando, Walt Disney World Resort)

CRITIC'S CHOICE

Hillstone

From the inside and out, Hillstone rocks the view, ambience and food.

Overall

Eddie V's Prime Seafood

7488 Sand Lake Road, Orlando

407-355-3011; eddiev.com

RUNNERS-UP

•Park Plaza Gardens ( Winter Park )

•Soco (Orlando,Thornton Park)

CRITIC'S CHOICE

Luma on Park

290 S. Park Ave, Winter Park

407-599-4111; lumaonpark.com

RUNNER-UP

•Cask & Larder (Winter Park)

Luma remains the total package. Chef Brandon McGlamery's creative menu, well-trained staff and the bar all combine to make this the best dining experience in Central Florida.

Pet friendly

Seito Sushi

4898 New Broad St., Orlando

407-898-8801; seitosushi.com

RUNNERS-UP

•Yellow Dog Eats (Gotha)

•Rock & Brews (Oviedo)

CRITIC'S CHOICE

Dexter's

Various locations including 808 E. Washington St., Orlando

407-648-2777; dexwine.com

Taking a four-legged family member for a casual meal is easy in Central Florida. Be sure to keep Fido's leash tight so as not to disturb other diners.

Pizza

Pizza Paradiso

707 N. Goldenrod Road, Orlando, 407-745-4226; 1502 N. Semoran Blvd., Orlando, 407-736-8001

pizzaparadisoorlando.com

RUNNERS-UP

•Pizza Valdiano (Orlando and Winter Park)

•Tomasino's (Lake Mary, Orlando, Winter Springs)

CRITIC'S CHOICE

Tomasino's New York Pizzeria

Various locations including 2612 E. Colonial Drive, Orlando

407-898-7499; tomasinospizza.com

RUNNER-UP

•Pizzeria Del-Dio (Orlando)

I wouldn't turn down a slice from any of our picks, but I went with Tomasino's hand-tossed authentic New York pizza. The crust has a fab snap and crackle. The new Lake Mary location is a nice addition to the family.

Polish

Polonia

750 S. U.S. Highway 17-92, Longwood

407-331-1933; polonia-restaurant.com

RUNNER-UP

•Anna's Polish (Winter Park)

CRITIC'S CHOICE

Polonia

If there were a general award for best European restaurant it would go to Polonia in Longwood, a mecca for Old-World- style foods made from scratch.

Power lunch

The Boheme

Grand Bohemian Hotel, 325 S. Orange Ave., Orlando

407-581-4700; grandbohemianhotel.com

RUNNER-UP

•Citrus (Orlando)

CRITIC'S CHOICE: TIE

Citrus

821 N. Orange Ave., Orlando

407-373-0622; citrusorlando.com

The Rusty Spoon

55 W. Church St., Orlando

407-401-8811; therustyspoon.com

We've got the downtown Orlando scene covered here. The Boheme and The Rusty Spoon are both near City Hall; perennial favorite Citrus, in downtown's burgeoning North Quarter, is always full of movers and shakers in business and government.

Puerto Rican

Guavate

422 S. Alafaya Trail, Orlando

407-281-4700; guavateinorlando.com

RUNNERS-UP

•Simply Divine Food Truck (simplydivinefoodtruck.com)

•Lechonera El Jibarito (Kissimmee)

CRITIC'S CHOICE

Guavate

Guavate is an independent treasure hidden among the chains of east Orange County. It specializes in home-style Puerto Rican cuisine and signature mofongos

Romantic

Eddie V's Prime Seafood

7488 Sand Lake Road, Orlando

407-355-3011; eddiev.com

RUNNERS-UP

•Victoria & Albert's (Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa)

•Venetian Room (Caribe Royale, Orlando)

CRITIC'S CHOICE

Enzo's Restaurant on the Lake

1130 S. U.S. Highway 17-92, Longwood

407-834-9872; enzos.com

RUNNER-UP

Victoria & Albert's (Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa)

First-timers are often surprised at the surroundings as they approach Enzo's. A mish-mash of businesses surrounds the long stucco wall that separates the restaurant from the congestion. Once you pass the entry, the setting is only a bit statelier. The transformation occurs once inside. To the left the elegant wood bar beckons. A few steps beyond that, the Terraza room absorbs the natural light before sunset and then takes a romantic turn as the exterior gardens and walkways are illuminated.

Sandwich

George's Gourmet Cookies & Catering

501 N. Orlando Ave., Suite 243, Winter Park

407-622-1499; georgesgourmetcookiesandcatering.com

RUNNERS-UP

•Pom Pom's Tea House & Sandwicheria (Orlando)

•Beefy King (Orlando)

CRITIC'S CHOICE: TIE

Beefy King

424 N. Bumby Ave., Orlando

407-894-2241; beefyking.com

Yellow Dog Eats

1236 Hempel Ave., Gotha (407-296-0609); 147 Canal St., New Smyrna Beach (386-410-4824); yellowdogeats.com

At least once a month you'll find me at Beefy King with my colleagues. It's an Orlando classic. But Yellow Dog Eats has become the master of reinventing the sandwich with big, bold flavors. I am really happy to see a catering company like George's get your nod. The sandwiches are super but the cookies are outrageously fine. When I get invited to speak at a club and I know George's is doing the food, I'm a happy camper.

Seafood

Big Fin Seafood Kitchen, Orlando

8046 Via Dellagio Way, Dellagio Town Center, Orlando

407-615-8888; bigfinseafood.com

RUNNERS-UP

•High Tide Harry's (Orlando)

•T.J's Fish Shack (Orlando and Oviedo)

CRITIC'S CHOICE

The Oceanaire Seafood Room

9101 International Drive, Orlando

407-363-4801; theoceanaire.com

What I like about Oceanaire is the consistency and clean fish-house vibe. And the free valet parking makes visiting a little less painful for locals navigating the tourist corridor.

Soul

B.B. Kings Blues Club

9101 International Drive, Suite 2230, Orlando

407-370-4550; bbkings.com

RUNNERS-UP

•Tibby's New Orleans Kitchen (Altamonte Springs and Winter Park)

•Chef Eddie's (Orlando)

CRITIC'S CHOICE

Chef Eddie's

595 W. Church St., Orlando

407-826-1731; chefeddies.com

Chef Eddie's is not an Orlando newcomer but the home-style restaurant's new home has reignited the dining options within a basketball buzzer throw of Amway Center and close enough to the Orlando Lions home field to find yourself in the middle of a game-day celebration. Look for Orlando's Nikki's Place to regain its place at the top of these lists as it re-emerges from a disastrous fire with a great renovation.

Spanish

El Bodegon Tapas & Wine

400 S. Orlando Ave., Winter Park

407-628-1078; elbodegon.club

RUNNERS-UP

•Ceviche (Orlando)

•Capa (Four Seasons Resort Orlando, Walt Disney World Resort )

CRITIC'S CHOICE

Capa

Four Seasons, Walt Disney World Resort, 10100 Dream Tree Blvd., Lake Buena Vista

407-313-7777; fourseasons.com

Inspired by the Basque region of northwest Spain, Capa's fare includes tapas plates, house-cured sausage, imported cheeses, ham croquettes and wood-roasted olives. The over-the-top charcuterie lists jamon de bellota, a much coveted pure Iberico acorn fed ham.

Steakhouse

Stefano's Grill

7512 Dr. Phillips Blvd., Orlando

407-668-4745; stefanosgrill.com

RUNNERS-UP

•Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar (Orlando and Winter Park)

•Christner's Prime Steak & Lobster (Orlando)

CRITIC'S CHOICE

A Land Remembered

Rosen Shingle Creek, 9939 Universal Blvd, Orlando

407-996-3663; landrememberedrestaurant.com

RUNNERS-UP

•Bull & Bear Prime Steakhouse (Waldorf Astoria, Orlando)

•The Capital Grille (Orlando)

Your choice is a bit of a surprise as we have so many stronger candidates in Central Florida. When I visited Stefano's in 2015 a small box on the menu touted steaks and chops, but the menu had an Italian emphasis. I went classic Orlando with A Land Remembered, with menu offerings as diverse as Florida's history and some of the finest steaks around.

Sushi

A-Aki Sushi & Steakhouse, Orlando

1400 Sand Lake Road, Orlando

407-888-9545; a-akisushi.com

RUNNERS-UP

•Imperial Dynasty (Longwood)

•Seito (Orlando)

CRITIC'S CHOICE

Sushi Pop

310 W. Mitchell Hammock Road, Oviedo

407-542-5975; sushipoprestaurant.com

RUNNERS-UP

•Dragonfly Modern Izakaya & Sushi (Orlando)

•Kabooki Sushi (Orlando)

Step inside Sushi Pop and you'll feel a bit like the Wizard of Oz's Dorothy wobbling out of a crash landing. ("Toto, I don't think we're in Oviedo anymore!") Swank, faux white-leather booths and sleek tables and chairs fill out the room. Blushes of pink come from a tall sheet of art glass, slender lotus lanterns hang from the high ceiling and glass pebbles are poised on tables for resting your chopsticks. A blur of pink, cream and dark colors over the bar area adds to the cool energy and may make you think twice about a second sake. The sushi melds innovation and style.

Takeout

Imperial Dynasty

2045 W. State Road 434, Longwood

407-786-2266; imperialdynasty.com

RUNNER-UP

•Outback (various locations)

CRITIC'S CHOICE

Swine & Sons Provisions

595 W. Fairbanks Ave, Winter Park

407-636-7601; swineandsons.com

RUNNERS-UP

•Farm-Haus (Orlando)

•Fatto en Casa (Orlando)

Swine & Sons Provisions over-the-top approach to takeout takes the sophisticated Southern cuisine The Ravenous Pig and Cask & Larder restaurants are known for and packages the options into gourmet products, charcuterie selections and made-to-order butcher sandwiches.

Tex-Mex

Tijuana Flats

Various locations including 160 Tuskawilla Road, Winter Springs

407-706-2468; tijuanaflats.com

RUNNERS-UP

•Chuy's (Orlando)

•Amigos Original Tex-Mex (Altamonte Springs and Orlando)

CRITIC'S CHOICE

Amigos Original Tex-Mex Restaurant & Cantina

120 N. Westmonte Drive, Altamonte Springs, 407-774-4334; and 749 N. Alafaya Trail, Orlando, 407-823-7138

amigos-texmex.com

Modeled after Burrito Brothers in Gainesville, Tijuana Flats demands your loyalty. I like the Amigos back story, too. Starting in 1988, Nell Hyltin built Amigos into a small chain that had six Central Florida locations at its peak. Today, there are two Amigos, both a tribute to authentic, home-style Tex-Mex.

Thai

Thai Cuisine

5325 Edgewater Drive, Orlando

407-292-9474; thaicuisineorlando.com

RUNNERS-UP

•Thai Blossom (Winter Garden)

•Golden Thai (Longwood)

CRITIC'S CHOICE

Thai Blossom

99 W. Plant St., Winter Garden

407-905-9917; mythaiblossom.com

The hallmark of good Thai food is a balance of all the flavor elements and textures. Thai Blossom achieves that consistently.

Theme Park

Be Our Guest

Fantasyland, Walt Disney World Magic Kingdom

407-939-3463; disneyworld.disney.go.com

RUNNERS-UP

•Hollywood Brown Derby (Disney's Hollywood Studios)

•Le Cellier (Canadian Pavilion, Epcot, Walt Disney World Resort)

CRITIC'S CHOICE

Monsieur Paul

France Pavilion, Epcot

407-939-3463; disneyworld.disney.go.com

The upscale Monsieur Paul celebrates the career of legendary chef Paul Bocuse. The small, second-floor eatery offers a quiet getaway from the bustling World Showcase.

Vegetarian

Infusion Tea

1600 Edgewater Drive, Orlando

407-999-5255; infusionorlando.com

RUNNERS-UP

•Ethos (Winter Park)

•Dandelion Communitea (Orlando)

CRITIC'S CHOICE

Infusion Tea

Look for Winter Park's Daya to mix things up in this category in next year's Foodies.

Vietnamese

Saigon Flavors

3573 Aloma Ave., Oviedo

407-951-8818; saigonflavors.net

RUNNER-UP

Anh Hong (Orlando)

CRITIC'S CHOICE

Pho Vinh

657 N. Primrose Drive, Orlando

407-228-0043; phovinhorlando.com

At Pho Vinh the fresh green-papaya salad is sublime, and the phos (soups) are a strong suit here. The lengthy menu can be overwhelming, but servers are well-trained.

Wine Bar

The Wine Room

270 S. Park Ave., Winter Park

407-696-9463; thewineroomonline.com

RUNNER-UP

Eola Wine Co. (Orlando)

CRITIC'S CHOICE

The Wine Room

The Wine Room is a fun, interactive space that has been featured on the Travel Channel and has more than 150 wines to taste from wine-dispensing machines. Bubbles alert: The new "flute" machine for sampling sparkling wines and Champagne.

Wine list

Eddie V's Prime Seafood

7488 W. Sand Lake Road, Orlando

407-355-3011; eddiev.com

RUNNER-UP

Venetian Room (Caribe Royale Orlando)

CRITIC'S CHOICE

The Capital Grille

4200 Conroy Road, Mall at Millenia, Orlando, 407-351-2210; and 9101 International Drive, Pointe Orlando, Orlando, 407-370-4392; thecapitalgrille.com

There are more than 350 wines on The Capital Grille menu. The wines represent nearly every wine-growing region in the world and include classic gems, little-known labels on the brink of stardom and a "Captain's List" featuring some of the world's most celebrated wines.

Wings

Papa Bees

480 S. Ronald Reagan Blvd., Suite 1036, Longwood

407-260-1122; papabeesinc.com

RUNNER-UP

Gator's Dockside (various locations)

CRITIC'S CHOICE: TIE

Sinbad's Bar & Grill

1050 W. Burleigh Blvd., Tavares

352-343-6669; Facebook

Papa Bees

Like breakfast, I think we like eat wings close to home. Whether eating in or taking out for tailgates and parties, it's all-American finger food.