Orlando, Culinarily Speaking

No-frills Cuban cuisine is the star at this Orlando area food place, which has both Orlando and Winter Park locations. Needless to say, you should order black beans—either black bean soup or the vegetarian plate with rice, plantains and salad. Though there are plenty of carnivorous selections, the vegetarian options equally impress. Don't forget the vegan empanada on the side.

Try the specialty tea at this buzzing downtown Orlando restaurant, which also offers plant-based fare that’s both organic and Celiac-friendly. Bowls and wraps, especially the “Giddyup” tempeh chili, are popular choices. On a nice day, you’ll want to sit next to the garden beds and enjoy the fresh air.

Classics rule at this Winter Park eatery with bar seating and cozy booths. The menu offers plant-based versions of your favorite dishes, such as pizza or shepherd’s pie, but the specials also are worth considering. The barbecue sandwich is both delicious and filling. For dinner, you can’t go wrong ordering vegetarian lasagna and “buttery” garlic knots.

Although you’ll find vegetarian and vegan options throughout Disney Springs®, consider dining at this trendy local restaurant, which is named after “Iron Chef America” chef Masaharu Morimoto. Order the Morimoto lunch set, which you can make vegetarian by picking the salad, white rice and veggie tofu entrée. Then choose where to eat dessert at the entertainment complex; both Sprinkles and Erin McKenna’s Bakery NYC offer vegan cupcakes.

The garden beds and plants in front of East End Market hint at the local-oriented focus. Inside the foodie hub, one of the most interesting vendors focuses on healthful, ready-to-go eats. Think salads, smoothies and juices that are not only vegan but also raw and gluten-free.