The Ravenous Pig

The Ravenous Pig in Winter Park, FL, bills itself as an American Gastropub, serving up eclectic fare with plenty of Floridian flourishes. The restaurant is located on Orange Avenue north of downtown Orlando, so the crowd is primarily comprised of local professionals and connoisseurs of fine cuisine.In addition to an extensive wine list, the menu includes tempura battered lobster tacos, rock shrimp salad, and burger with buttermilk bleu cheese dressing.

The Ravenous Pig's menu is driven by the season, so the menu changes frequently depending on product availability and chef inspiration, with some pretty amazing flavor combinations as a result. One item that is always available are the shoestring French Fries cooked in truffle oil (after trying these fries, the fast food version will seem to pale by comparison). Another house specialty is gruyere cheese biscuits with smoked sea salt butter.

Although children are permitted in the Ravenous Pig, there are no high chairs, booster seats, or kids menus with a pack of crayons—in keeping with the restaurant's elegant and intimate atmosphere. Street parking is available, as well as complimentary valet parking. Check the Ravenous Pig's website for lunch and dinner hours, and enjoy an Orlando area meal away from the tourist crowds.