Number One Daughter’s Montessori Teacher is from Venezuela. She recommended an authentic Venezuelan Restaurant with the very unpretentious name of Orlando Snack Cafe.
The restaurant is located in Hunter’s Creek, a cozy residential area about 10 minutes east of Disney World. It was easy to find the small strip mall where the sign on the door told us we were at the right place. Our first impression did not give us any indication that culinary delight was waiting just inside.
Luis Andrade was raised in Venezuela and came to this country five years ago to escape the political turmoil of his native land. Three years ago he opened the Orlando Snack Cafe. He made the same authentic Venezuelan dishes he was accustomed to cooking in the restaurant he used to own in Venezuela.
Despite his difficulty with the English language, it was evident that the quiet, unassuming Luis is proud of his food. In addition to traditional Venezuelan fare, such as rellenos, empanadas and cachapas, his restaurant serves hot dogs, grilled chicken, lasagna and various other traditional snack house favorites.
The food was exceptional and modestly priced. If you’re not feeling adventurous enough to try the Venezuelan fruit or rice drinks, you can enjoy the coffee, smoothies or traditional American soda pop.
We ordered a selection of side dishes–coleslaw, potato salad, mashed potato, and fried plantains–along with a cheese relleno and a cachapas. The food was homemade, fresh and delicious. We asked to meet the owner to offer our compliments. Luis stopped by our table and briefly shared with us the story of his trek to America and the opening of his restaurant.
Whatever your culinary preference, Montessori Teacher Karen was correct, this is the best Venezuelan food in the Orlando area. It’s also perfect for a family or group with some members who want to try the adventurous and exotic and others who wish to stick with the tried and true.
Either way, everyone in your party will love the food and the prices at this delightful new discovery.
Orlando Snack Cafe
3708 Town Center Blvd.
Orlando, FL 32837
407.851.4646
www.OrlandoSnackCafe.com
Service@OrlandoSnackCafe.com
Hours
8am – 8pm Mon thru Sat
8am – 1pm Sun
May 12, 2010 at 11:12 pm |
Great review on a great little place. I certainly go there whenever I’m looking for the warmth of Venezuelan comfort food.
May 13, 2010 at 5:52 pm |
Hi Karen: I’m so thankful you told us about this restaurant. We really enjoyed it! LanceAround PS: The end of the year school picnic at the Celebration Montessori School was fantastic, as usual. You have an exceptional school!
May 15, 2010 at 5:32 pm |
You’re welcome on the restaurant – I’m here having lunch – and thanks on the school. It takes the dedication of many to make it work. I’m thankful for all that care enough to put in their effort, including the ever famous Boyer’s.