Brendan O’Connor
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Travel, food, Orlando, history, city planning, news, arts and culture.
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Religion and politics.
Gadabout and boyfriend stealer
Articles by Brendan O’Connor
Brendan O’Connor Asks, Where Do Orlando’s Winners Eat?
Brendan O’Connor, editor-in-chief at The Orlando Shine, and Fred Thimm, owner of Reel Fish Coastal Kitchen + Bar in Winter Park. Photo by Roberto Gonzalez. THE RELEASE OF ORLANDO MAGAZINE’S ANNUAL DINING AWARDS WINNERS is always such a great opportunity for me to sit down and assess where the heck I’ve been eating all year and to see if my favorites line up with everyone else’s. I reached out to several of this year’s winners to ask where they actually eat when they’re not working.
A Taste Of The Suite Life In Deerfield Beach
An aerial view of Embassy Suites’ beachfront location. DEERFIELD BEACH DOESN’T GET THE SAME ATTENTION AS FORT LAUDERDALE OR BOCA RATON, WHICH IS PART OF WHAT MAKES IT WORK. Perched atop a laid-back barrier island between those two louder destinations, Embassy Suites by Hilton Deerfield Beach Resort & Spa at 950 S. Ocean Drive is the kind of place that lets you access both without paying for the name recognition of either. And with far less traffic.
The Sunshine State’s Most Essential Bites
From the Panhandle to the Everglades, a trip around Florida. Starting at just $10, Beefy King’s sandwich platters are a great deal, all served with cole slaw, a large order of beefy spuds and a Kosher dill pickle. Photo by Roberto Gonzalez. FLORIDA HAS A FOOD CULTURE THAT MOST PEOPLE WHO’VE ONLY EATEN NEAT A THEME PARK OR BEACH RESORT COUNTER ( that includes some boring long-term residents too), rooted in the land, the water, and the communities that were here long before the tourists arrived.
Get To Know Your Orlando Foodie Influencers
ORLANDO’S FOOD SCENE exploded over the past decade, with a new generation of content creators there to document every opening, every dish, and every delicious (or sometimes not delicious) bite. These foodfluencers have become the trusted voices shaping where Central Floridians eat, what they order, and which new restaurants make it past their first year.
Let Them Eat (Something Other Than) Cake!
Light on the Sugar can create just about anything, including this ramen-inspired dessert. Photo by Roberto Gonzalez. FOR GENERATIONS, THE WEDDING CAKE WAS NON-NEGOTIABLE. It anchored the reception table, it had its own moment in the timeline, and it showed up in every photo with that little tiny version of the couple standing on the top, looking triumphant after having conquered the dating pool and crossed the finish line to happily ever after.
Best Third Places in Orlando for Community, Connection, and Culture
BACK IN 1989, SOCIOLOGIST RAY OLDENBURG COINED THE TERM “THIRD PLACE” TO DESCRIBE SPACES THAT EXIST OUTSIDE OUR HOMES AND WORKPLACES, OR MORE SPECIFICALLY, THE SPOTS WHERE SOCIAL LIFE HAPPENS.
The 2025 Orlando Dining Awards: Brendan’s Picks Part 1
Back to the 2025 Dining Awards Photo by ©André Klutz Best Instagrammable Restaurant: BACÁN BACÁN restaurant at the Lake Nona Wave Hotel is arguably one of the hottest spots in Orlando for Instagram-savvy foodies. With its open‑kitchen design, soaring ceilings, jewel‑toned seating, gold lanterns and a bold mural of Pachamama (an Andean Mother Earth goddess) by Amy Rader, every frame seems tailor-made for the ‘gram. The plates are equally photogenic, too.
The 2025 Orlando Dining Awards: Brendan’s Picks Part 2
Back to the 2025 Dining Awards Best Chef’s Table: ÔMO BY JÔNT Best MICHELIN Star Restaurant & Chef: RYAN RATINO ÔMO by Jônt elevates dining to a deeply personal journey. Limited to just 16 guests, its progressive tasting menu moves from a living room reception with welcome snacks and cocktails to an intimate chef’s counter where diners watch each savory course being prepared, then concludes in a dessert parlor with a signature magic box of sweets.
Review: Fright and Drink Flights at Universal Orlando Resort
Brendan walks us through this new program at Universal Orlando Resort, just in time for the Halloween season. Universal Orlando’s hotel bars are getting into the Halloween spirit with a new seasonal program called Fright and Drink Flights, in an effort to capture some of that Horror Nights black magic.
Exploring The Art Of Barbecue With Brendan O'Connor
GOOD BARBECUE IS MORE THAN A COOKING METHOD— it’s a deeply rooted culinary tradition that reflects its region’s culture, climate and community. Some would even say it’s a way of life. From smoky pits in Texas to vinegar-splashed pork in the Carolinas, the art of barbecue has evolved into a rich and flavorful mosaic of regional pride. But what exactly makes great barbecue, and where is it headed in the modern culinary world?
The Best Brunches in Central Florida: Tasty Tidbits
Brunch is more than just a meal—it’s a vibe, a ritual, a weekend reward for making it through endless emails and meetings. Somewhere between breakfast and lunch (hence the name), it’s the ultimate leisurely feast that doesn’t rush you. Whether you’re sipping mimosas on a sunny patio or settling into a cozy booth with friends, a good brunch strikes a balance between comfort and indulgence. But what makes a brunch great? Let’s dig in. In my humble opinion, the heart of any brunch lies in the menu.
Enzian screening "Vampyros Lesbos" for Pride Month, June 13
Get ready for a night of cult cinema and queer celebration at Enzian Theater’s “Reel Pride” series with a special midnight screening of Vampyros Lesbos on Friday, June 13 at midnight. This 1971 erotic horror film by Jesús “Jess” Franco is a surreal, psychedelic journey that has become a cornerstone of queer cult cinema.
Dive into Art: “Pool Party: The Pool in American Art” opens June 6 at the Mennello Museum
The Mennello Museum of American Art (Website) will open its latest exhibition, Pool Party: The Pool in American Art, on Friday, June 6. Running through September 28, the show explores the swimming pool as a symbol of American leisure, luxury, and cultural identity from the 1950s to today.
Central Florida Orchid Society hosting 67th Annual Show and Sale, June 6-8
The Central Florida Orchid Society (Website) will host its 67th Annual Show and Sale from June 6 through June 8 at the Florida Army National Guard Armory. The theme for the three-day event is “Bewitched by Orchids,” so expect some zany botanists in pointy witch hats to be hawking their wares. The event will feature experts evaluating orchid specimens, a vendor marketplace with orchids and supplies, educational presentations, and family-friendly activities.
DDB considering $700K extension of DTO Live Program
Downtown Orlando could see another year of live performances as the city’s Downtown Development Board considers a $608,000 extension for the DTO Live program. Launched in June 2024, DTO Live is an arts/tourism initiative overseen by United Arts of Central Florida and funded by the Downtown Development Board, with the goal of providing daily, free arts experiences in the downtown core.
History Center hosting lecture on Jonestown, Orlando's first African American community
The Orange County Regional History Center (Website) will host a special lecture on Sunday, June 15, from 2-3 p.m., all about Orlando’s first African American community, Jonestown. UCF graduate researcher, Sarah Boye, will tell the hidden story of Jonestown through the life of Isborne Brooks, a former Jonestown resident who is now buried in Greenwood Cemetery.
Good Salt Group's Sparrow Wine Bar is now open
Good Salt Restaurant Group, the James Beard-nominated (and suspiciously Michelin-ignored) team behind some of Orlando’s most acclaimed dining spots, has opened its latest concept, Sparrow Wine Bar (Website), in the North Quarter. Located at 807 N. Orange Avenue [GMap], just steps from their popular Reyes Mezcaleria (Website) concept, Sparrow is a cozy new lounge experience inspired by the flavors of Southern Europe.
Orlando muralist wins National Mural Award for work in Kansas
Christian Stanley (Instagram), an Orlando-based muralist and University of Central Florida graduate, is capturing global attention with some really breathtaking large-scale mural commissions in other cities. Through his company, C. Stanley Creative (Website), which he works alongside his wife Jessica, Stanley has just earned the prestigious Gold National Mural Award for Region Five for his latest work, Prairie Thunder, a 46-foot-tall and 86-foot-wide mural in Clay Center, Kansas.
Mexican burger concept opening downtown
A new restaurant will be opening in a downtown Orlando storefront located at 50 E. Central Avenue, Suite D [GMap], in what appears to be the former home of Frosty’s Christmastime Lounge. According to their website, Scholars Restaurant and Bar (Website) will serve “social-friendly”, quick fixes of Mexican and American mainstays topped with signature sauces.” They will be serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner all day and serving beer and cocktails.
Whodunnit: The Case of the Stolen Bronze Eagle
A cherished bronze eagle statue was stolen from a downtown Orlando law firm during a recent break-in, leaving the widow of a respected local attorney devastated. The Orlando Police Department shared late last week that the theft occurred at a law office near East Pine Street and South Court Avenue in downtown Orlando.
Orlando nightlife advocates rally against proposed midnight closures
A new petition was launched this week, urging city officials to reconsider a pending proposal that would mandate downtown bars and nightlife venues to close at midnight. The initiative, launched by a local entrepreneur planning to open Anthem (Website), a forthcoming LGBTQ+ venue in the former Saddle Up storefront, had already garnered over 500 signatures at the time of this post.
Orlando City SC eliminated from U.S. Open Cup after loss to Nashville SC
Orlando City SC’s pursuit of the 2025 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup came to an end on Wednesday night with a 3-2 defeat to Nashville SC at Inter&Co Stadium. The loss snapped the Lions’ 12-match unbeaten streak across all competitions, which had tied a club record set in 2020. The Lions started strong, taking the lead in the 17th minute when forward Marco Pašalić scored his seventh goal of the season, assisted by homegrown rockstar defender Alex Freeman.
Orlando approves contractor for 'The Canopy': An ambitious park concept for under I-4
The City of Orlando has taken a significant step in its ongoing efforts to resuscitate its downtown core by approving The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company to lead the construction of “The Canopy,” a 10-acre urban park to be built under Interstate 4. The Canopy is meant to repurpose the area under I-4, previously used for parking, into a dynamic public space featuring walking paths, seating areas, and greenish landscapes.
Burn Ban lifted for Orange County
Orange County Government has lifted the Burn Ban that was put into effect in mid-April for incorporated areas of Orange County and any municipality that they service, including Edgewood, Belle Isle, Oakland, and Eatonville. Burn bans are automatically instituted under Orange County’s Fire Prevention and Protection Ordinance when the Keetch-Byram Drought Index meets or exceeds 500.
Edible Education Experience rebrands as The Kitchen House, with rewnewed focus on Food, Community, and Sustainability
A showy piece of Orlando’s garden-to-table movement has a fresh new identity. Edible Education Experience, a nonprofit rooted in immersive culinary and garden education, has officially rebranded as The Kitchen House (Website), a name that pays tribute to its physical home, the Emeril Lagasse Foundation Kitchen House and Culinary Garden in College Park. The new name represents more than just a facelift (which it’s also had – thanks to some new garden layouts and a window refresh).
Orlando and Kissimmee reevaluating downtown alcohol policies amid ongoing safety concerns
During a Monday workshop with the commissioners and city staff, Orlando Police Chief Eric Smith shared that 25% of injuries to police officers since 2021 have happened in the Downtown Entertainment Area. During that same workshop, it was tabled that City Hall should consider shutting down all alcohol sales at midnight in the downtown core as an effort to free up police resources. A tragic shooting in downtown Orlando on November 1, 2024, resulted in two deaths and several injuries.
Curry Ford West hosting 8th Annual Dress Like a Dad Pub Crawl, June 7
The Curry Ford West Main Street (Facebook | Website) is again leaning into their dad bods and hosting its 8th Annual dad-themed pub crawl on Saturday, June 7. Attendees to the “Dress Like a Dad Pub Crawl” are encouraged to don their best jorts, cheesy t-shirts, and white sneakers and stumble through Curry Ford West enjoying discounts and deals at the following participating venues.
Orlando City dominates Miami in 3-0 victory, extends unbeaten streak to 12 matches
Orlando City SC delivered a resounding statement Sunday night, defeating heated interstate rivals Inter Miami CF 3-0 at Chase Stadium. The win not only catapulted the Lions ahead of Miami in the standings but also extended Orlando’s unbeaten run across all competitions to 12 matches, tying a club record.
Appeals Court says, "no shade, but that's unconstitutional."
A federal appeals court has upheld an injunction against Florida’s “Protection of Children” law, which would have banned all-ages drag shows, deeming it likely unconstitutional. The 11th Circuit Court of Appeals ruled 2-1 in favor of Hamburger Mary’s Orlando, a local drag-themed restaurant chain that challenged the law. The court found the law’s language overly vague and potentially infringing on First Amendment protections. The law, backed by Governor Ron DeSantis and Republican Rep.
Jaguars need more time before committing to temporary home
The Jacksonville Jaguars have postponed their decision regarding a temporary stadium to host home games during the 2027 and 2028 NFL seasons while TIAA Bank Field undergoes major renovations. The decision, originally expected in May 2025, has now been pushed to October 2025.
TOP TEN THINGS TO KNOW THIS WEEK
This is our latest rundown of the top ten things you need to know this week in Orlando’s downtown “bungalow neighborhoods.” Click HERE to listen to Episode 429 of “Bungalower and The Bus” on Real Radio 104.1 FM, which was recorded at the newly opened Sparrow (Instagram) in the North Quarter. • Winter Park gave Historic Preservation Board some teeth with a new ordinance requiring anyone who demolishes a historic structure without approval to rebuild it on their own dime.
Bungalower and The Bus: Episode 429 (Sparrow)
The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the hosts alone and do not reflect the official policy or position of Bungalower Media, our readers, or our advertisers. For Episode 429, Jon and Brendan head to Sparrow (Instagram) in the North Quarter. It’s the latest concept from the suspiciously Michelin-ignored Good Salt Group. This week also features an interview with Orlando Fringe artist, Canadian puppeteer Adam Francis Proulx.
Bonus Episode: Adam Francis Proulx, Fringe Artist and Hometown Hero
Canadian puppeteer and theatre artist Adam Francis Proulx (Instagram) is bringing his latest creation, Ferry Tale!, to the 2025 Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival. This cinematic puppet love story, based on a true 1933 event from Proulx’s hometown of Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, tells the tale of a couple separated by the Canada-U.S. border who ride a ferry daily to be together, eventually catching Hollywood’s attention.
Winter Park gives Historic Preservation Board some teeth
As first reported by Beth Kassab for Winter Park Voice, the Winter Park City Commission has just approved significant changes to the city’s historic preservation ordinance, aiming to deter unauthorized demolitions and ensure adherence to approved renovation plans. The revised ordinance mandates that property owners who demolish or significantly alter historic structures without proper authorization may be required to reconstruct the building exactly as it was, using authentic exterior materials.
Call to Artists: Sculpture on the Lawn 2026
Applications are now open for Orange County Government’s 11th annual Sculpture on the Lawn. The annual Sculpture on the Lawn exhibition is an outdoor display featured at the entrance to the Orange County Administration Center, located at 201 S. Rosalind Avenue [GMap]. Sculpture on the Lawn is open to experienced professional sculptors as well as students and emerging artists who specialize in the design, construction, and installation of outdoor sculptures.
Orwin Manor residents want Winter Park to pony up for some new/old arches
A grassroots initiative is underway to reconstruct a pair of historic Orwin Manor Gateway Arches that were once a prominent feature along Orange Avenue in Winter Park, Florida. These northern arches, demolished decades ago, served as a formal entrance to the Orwin Manor neighborhood, complementing the still-standing 1924 southern arches in Orlando, which are listed on the city’s historic register.
Spiral Circle Bookstore celebrating 50th anniversary
Spiral Circle Bookstore and More (Website) in Mills 50 is celebrating its 50th anniversary and will host a special party on Saturday, May 17. The woman-owned metaphysical bookshop will be hosting a twilight garden party with mocktails, small bites, and treats on offer as well as appearances from special guests and a proclamation from the City of Orlando. The shop team is inviting guests to bring an offering for a time capsule that they will be sealing and burying on site.
Milk Mart hosting Birthday Bash market event, May 25
Milk Mart (Instagram), the popular local art and food market hosted quarterly in the Milk District, is celebrating its anniversary on May 25. The free event will run from 1-6 p.m., tucked away in the parking lots behind seven participating Milk district venues like The Nook and Etoile Boutique, with food trucks and vendors hawking their wares. Parking will be available at Festival Park for $5 if you can’t find anything curbside.
College Park hosting Drinks Along the Drive, May 17
The College Park Main Street (Website) is hosting its first Drinks Along the Drive event of the year this Saturday, May 17. Attendees can wander Edgewater Drive while visiting 15 participating businesses, each pouring curated wine and beer selections chosen by The Good Pour (Website).
Westcourt development in downtown Orlando advances with proposed parking garage
The Westcourt development, a transformative $500 million mixed-use project planned for a long-vacant 8.5-acre lot next to the Kia Center, is progressing with plans for a substantial parking garage to support its future programming. Once open, Westcourt will feature 265 multifamily rental units atop an 11-story Kimpton Hotel in the same building. Other Westcourt projects include 300,000 SF of office space, 120,000 SF of retail, a 3,500-capacity live event venue, and a 1,140-space parking garage.
Aloma Bowling offering free bowling for kids all summer long
Aloma Bowling (Website) is bringing back its popular Kids Bowl Free offer for the summer at all three of its campuses: Winter Park, Boardwalk bowl, and Airport Lanes in Sanford. The offer gives kids under the age of 15 two free games of bowling every weekend from May 5 through August 8, from open until 5 p.m. The air conditioning is free too. Bowling shoes must be worn, though, so bring your own or rent them on site. To redeem the deal, parents need to click HERE and sign up.
Journalist Valerie Boey Ramsey speaking on Asian American Pacific Islander Icons in Central Florida
The Orange County Regional History Center (Website) will host award-winning journalist Valerie Boey Ramsey for the next installment of its Brechner Speaker Series, titled “Asian American Pacific Islander Icons in Central Florida,” on Sunday, May 18, at 2 p.m. In this lecture, Ramsey will explore the rich and often overlooked history of Central Florida’s AAPI (Asian American and Pacific Islander) community.
Attorney Moe DeWitt and Tom and Dan hosting family skate-a-thon, July 12
The team at Just Call Moe (Website) and comedic radio duo Tom and Dan (Website) are joining forces to host a family skating event on Saturday, July 12. The JustCallMoe Family Skate-a-Thon will take place at Semoran Skateway from 5 to 7 p.m. and is free to attend. The event will feature free entry and skate rental, a family-friendly atmosphere with fun games and activities, great music, free merch, and the whole caboddle will be hosted by Tom and Dan. RSVP to save your spot HERE.
Orlando International Fringe Festival kicks off 34th year with ribbon-cutting ceremony on May 13
The 34th Annual Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival (Website) will officially commence on Tuesday, May 13, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 7 p.m. at the “Peach Venue,” located at The Shakes in Loch Haven Park. Following the ceremony, attendees will be treated to the National and International Artists’ Teaser Show, featuring one-minute live previews from touring performers representing five countries and over 20 U.S. states.
Mills Market hosting new night market with VIP early bird access
The award-winning Mills Market (Website) in Mills 50 will be hosting a special night market on Friday, May 30. The night market will run from 8 p.m. to midnight and feature a live DJ, drinks, and curated Asian Street vendors. Tickets are currently $35 and include unlimited street eats and drinks, early entry to beat the lines, and access to exclusive event merch. Prices will increase the day of the event. Click HERE for more information. Mills Market is located at 1110 E.
Downtown Orlando Partnership hosting Chow on Church, June 3
The Downtown Orlando Partnership (Website) is set to host its signature culinary event, Chow on Church, on Tuesday, June 3, from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Inter&Co Stadium. Presented by the City of Orlando’s Downtown Development Board, this event aims to celebrate and support local downtown businesses. Attendees will enjoy business networking opportunities, food tastings from local vendors, and the chance to meet Orlando Pride players.
Pat Greene thinks you should visit the Maitland Art Center
Pat Greene is Bungalower Media’s first sponsored Resident Reporter. Greene has joined our team as our Arts and Culture Correspondent, supported by the efforts of Interstruct Design + Build, an award-winning Orlando-based design and build firm. The Orlando area has so much more than the usual tourist destinations, and one of my favorite local treasures is the Art and History Museums – Maitland (Website).
Orlando Science Center brings back Mess Fest on May 10 and 11
The Orlando Science Center (Website) is bringing back its hit Mess Fest on May 10 and 11, for two full days of hands-on chaotic science fun. Mess Fest features a packed lineup of zones where attendees can experiment with incredibly messy science and sensory play without having to worry about cleaning anything up afterwards. This year’s program includes: Chemical reactions and Foamsplosions on the terrace. The WeFlip Acrobatic Science show. Alka-rockets, marbel art, and more in the Mess Hall.
Meet Dazed and Confused's Jason London at Enzian this month
Actor and producer Jason Paul London, most known for his role as teen heart throb Randall “Pink” Floyd inthe hit 90s film Dazed and Confused will be headed to Enzian Theater on Wednesday, May 21, for a special screening and meet-and-greet event.
Grab a pint to support public radio on May 18
Central Florida Public Media (Website) will host a special beer-fueled fundraiser on Sunday, May 18, at the Ivanhoe Park Lager House (formerly known as Deadwords Brewing). Pints for Public Media will run from 1-4 p.m. and feature live music and a portion from the bar proceeds will go to support Central Florida Public Media’s local news efforts.
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