20 Best Restaurants in Sanford, FL
Whether you're in the mood for a cozy spot to enjoy a hearty meal or a chic, modern eatery serving innovative dishes, the city's food scene has something to cater to every palate.
Join me as I guide you through some of the best restaurants in Sanford, Florida,
While this list showcases some remarkable restaurants, it's important to note there are many other exceptional dining establishments in Sanford that are not featured here. Our aim is not just to guide you to popular eateries but to encourage you to venture out and experience the city's diverse culinary landscape for yourself.
Sanford Bar
Ever had one of those days when you just need to unwind with some good food and drinks?
That's exactly what happened to me today, and my go-to place, as always, was Sanford Bar.
Their menu always hits the spot, and today was no different.
I usually opt for their European-inspired dishes since the flavors are so rich and sophisticated, just what you'd expect from a high-quality establishment.
It's not just your average bar; it's a place where you can relax, enjoy the crowd, and just have a good time.
The service is top-notch, always making me feel .
One of the things I love about this place is their drink selection.
The PL8 Bar & Grill
Every time I think about a place to grab some mouth-watering food, The PL8 Bar & Grill is the first name that comes to my mind.
Their food is not just food, it's an experience that stays with you.
The flavor profiles offered at this place are nothing short of amazing.
I would go as far as to say it's probably the best food I've ever tasted.
The ambiance of the place enhances the food experience to another level.
It's the perfect blend of cozy and upscale.
Every visit feels like a special occasion.
What makes it more impressive is the variety they offer.
Whether it's a quiet weekday or a bustling weekend, there's always something new to try.
I've been a regular patron for quite a while now, and I haven't been disappointed yet.
Red Hill Groves
Let me tell you about a hidden gem I've stumbled upon - Red Hill Groves.
This isn't just a simple citrus stand.
No, it's a nostalgia-invoking slice of old Florida, brimming with charm, delicious food, and the friendliest people you'll ever meet.
Check out their website at Red Hill Groves to get a little taste of what they offer.
The minute you step foot in the place, you're greeted with rows of assorted citrus products, knickknacks, and even pecans by the pound.
But what truly hooks me in is their BBQ.
I'm talking about the most tender, succulent ribs you can imagine, and at prices that had me doing a double-take.
An entire rack of baby back ribs for just $11.95 - it sounds too good to be true, right?
But it is, and it's incredible.
And the surprises just keep coming.
My latest find at Red Hill Groves is their Florida Sunset Jelly.
Trust me when I say it's a must-try.
It's like capturing the essence of a Florida sunset in a jar - simply sublime.
But what truly sets this place apart is its atmosphere.
It's located right at Ronald Reagan Blvd at the 417 overpass/exit.
It's become my sanctuary, a place where I can take a step back from the hustle and bustle of daily life and just unwind.
And the best part?
You can even feed the adorable chickens with your family for only $.50!
This humble citrus stand has become a routine stop for me.
And while I can't help but look forward to the citrus trees blossoming and filling the air with their sweet scent, I can't help but hope that this place remains our little secret.
Indian Express
One of the best discoveries I've made recently is a relatively new family-owned Indian restaurant, Indian Express Sanford.
Nestled unassumingly on St. John’s Parkway just off Rhineheart Rd, this place has quickly become my go-to spot for some truly delicious Indian cuisine.
The allure of Indian Express lies in its simplicity.
It's a takeout-only spot that offers the convenience of ordering online via their website as well as through delivery apps.
Whenever I try a new Indian restaurant, my go-to meal is always a medium-spiced Butter Chicken paired with Vegetable Samosas and garlic naan.
Indian Express managed to surpass my expectations on all fronts.
The butter chicken was delectable, the samosas were crispy and delicious, and the garlic naan was sensational; it smelled as good as it tasted.
The portion sizes were generous, and the value for money was impressive.
Another day on the way home from Sanford, I decided to stop by Indian Express again.
I was greeted by the same warm hospitality and deliciously fresh food.
The amazing part is that even after all these visits, there's still some food left over when I'm full.
Toro's Bites & Bar
Just the other day, I found myself at Toro's Bites & Bar, and let me tell you; it's a true gem in the Sanford area.
This intimate spot is the perfect place to wind down after a long day.
The food, service, and atmosphere are just awesome.
I'm a steak lover, so I decided to try the steak tacos, and they did not disappoint.
The food was not just delicious but was also served in a perfectly timed fashion.
I was amazed at the quality of service we received on our first visit.
A first-time experience has never been this great, making me eager to return and try out other items on their menu.
One thing I appreciate about Toro's Bites & Bar is how it fits perfectly into my biking routine around Sanford.
It's now my go-to spot every time I ride my bike around the area.
I love their reasonable prices; it's nice to know you can enjoy great food and drinks without breaking the bank.
If you're looking for a place to relax and have a good time with family and friends, this is it.
Sabrosito Criollo
Whenever I crave authentic Latin flavors, my thoughts instantly go to Sabrosito Criollo.
It's my favorite spot in Central Florida for a reason!
I can vouch for their variety of dishes, all bursting with flavors and cooked to perfection.
Every time I order, I know I'm getting a meal made fresh, cooked to order, and absolutely delicious.
And oh, their Prickly Pear Margaritas, these are simply out of this world and are a must-try!
I remember my visit last week, it was as delightful as ever.
The service was commendable, and the portions were generous as always.
But it's not just the food that keeps me going back, it's the heartwarming team they have at Sabrosito Criollo.
They are always so welcoming and genuinely happy.
Wavey’s Bar-B-Que
Oh, where do I even begin with Wavey’s Bar-B-Que?
This little hole-in-the-wall joint has been a staple in our community for years, and I have passed by it countless times without ever stopping.
It was only recently when I finally decided to give it a try, that I discovered a hidden treasure right in my own backyard.
My personal favorite is the three-meat combo - a hearty serving of chicken, ribs, and brisket.
The rib meat falls right off the bone, while the chicken is so tender and flavorful it practically melts in your mouth.
And don't even get me started on the brisket.
The perfect mix of fat and meat, it's pure joy in every bite.
The sides are equally as impressive, with their collard greens hands down the best I’ve ever tasted.
They're packed full of flavor, which is a rarity for greens, and make the perfect accompaniment to the meats.
The baked beans, sweet with a hint of spice and pieces of bacon mixed in, are the best I've had anywhere.
The Sullivan Public House
There's an old Irish saying that goes, "Laughter is brightest where food is best."
I think this sums up my many visits to The Sullivan Public House in downtown Sanford.
Their Irish menu is, simply put, phenomenal.
Each dish has its own unique taste, prepared with such finesse that it leaves you craving for more.
I’ve admittedly lost count of the number of times I’ve treated my taste buds to their Guinness and varied range of whiskeys.
On my last visit, I stumbled upon what I now consider a hidden gem - their meatloaf burger sandwich glazed with whiskey.
To call it 'heavenly' would be an understatement.
Adding to the ambiance is the live music they play on Thursdays.
There's something about Irish tunes that brings warmth and joy to an evening out.
Roni's Restaurant
I can't help but gush about my delightful experiences at the best breakfast spot around - none other than Roni's Restaurant.
It's the kind of spot that makes you want to shout from the rooftops about how good their food is!
My first visit to Roni's was for a traditional breakfast.
It might look simple, but let me tell you, the flavor explosion was nothing short of fantastic!
The grits were cooked to perfection, the bacon was on point, and the pancakes...oh, those pancakes!
They had a wonderful crispness that caught me by surprise, tantalizing my tastebuds with every bite!
I was so blown away by my first experience that I made sure to visit again.
This time, I tried the Shrimp, bacon, and grits bowl.
Those plump shrimps were a delight to the palate, packed with flavors that made every mouthful a feast.
Next on my list?
Lunch at Roni's.
Hollerbach's German Restaurant
Let me tell you about my favorite hangout spot in the city, Hollerbach's German Restaurant.
It has been my go-to place for years and never fails to impress me with its authentic German cuisine and vibrant atmosphere.
Every weekend, the restaurant transforms into a mini-festival with live music and a lively crowd, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a hearty meal and let loose.
The food, oh, where do I even start?
I usually opt for the "butcher shop platter for two", even when I'm dining alone.
With a generous assortment of sausages, smoked pork loin, red cabbage, sauerkraut, and the ridiculously delicious "heaven and earth" potatoes, it's a dish that will satiate the biggest of appetites.
Other than the great food, the service at Hollerbach's is always top-notch.
The District Eatery Tap & Barrel
Now, if you're on the hunt for some comforting American grub in the city, you simply can't miss out on The District Eatery Tap & Barrel.
My friends and I found ourselves there one evening, ravenous and eager to unwind.
We started with the shrimp dip, a rich and decadent appetizer that set the tone for the evening.
Sharing it amongst ourselves was exactly the kind of comfort we were looking for.
Following that, we ordered the short ribs.
I need to mention how incredibly tender and flavorful they were - it was like a party in my mouth!
But the star of the evening had to be the risotto that came with the ribs.
It was hands down the best risotto I've ever tasted, so creamy and mouthwatering I still dream about it sometimes.
The restaurant's relaxed vibe, coupled with its extensive selection of beer taps, cocktails, and wines, made the evening even more enjoyable.
Racks Billiards Sports Bar & Grill
I've got to tell you, there's no better place for me to spend my free time than at Racks Billiards Sports Bar & Grill.
This place has everything I need to unwind after a long day at work.
One thing I love about Racks is how excellent the service is.
The food is another highlight for me.
Their menu is filled with delicious options, from their burgers to chicken sandwiches.
I've brought a group of friends here on multiple occasions, and we've never been disappointed.
The rack attack burger is a personal favorite of mine - if you like spice, this one's for you.
And let's not forget about the pizza!
My dart friends and I find it hard to resist.
Speaking of darts, Racks also provides a fantastic environment for a game.
They have an impressive tap selection that caters to all tastes.
And the best part?
It's a smoke-free environment, so you can enjoy your games without the smell of smoke in the air.
They also have pool tables - both 7' and 9' Diamond tables with Aramith balls, and newly covered & leveled tables.
Parva Bakery-Restaurant-Cafe
I've visited many restaurants in and around the city, but Parva Colombian Bakery-Restaurant-Cafe holds a special place in my heart.
Nestled within the bustling cityscape, this mellow café is my go-to place when I want to savor Colombian dishes.
The first time I stepped into Parva, I was taken aback by the variety of dishes they specialize in.
The rice bowls are a definite must-try.
And their sausages?
They're cooked to perfection.
However, nothing beats their corn cake.
A bite of that delicious cake, and you're transported straight to the streets of Colombia.
The food quality at Parva isn’t the only thing that impresses me.
Each time I’ve visited, I’ve got to taste something new.
Once, I tried both their steak and pork dishes.
Both were so tender and flavorful that I couldn’t resist ordering more.
Their coffee, especially the latte, is one of the best I've tasted in the city.
SLAM Pizza And Cheesesteaks
There are those days when you're in the mood for some savory comfort food, and in Sanford, there's no better place for that than SLAM Pizza and Cheesesteaks.
The first time I tasted their Philly cheesesteak, I was instantly transported back to my last trip to Philadelphia.
I swear, it felt like I had never left.
And let's not even get started on their pizza - a slice of their pepperoni pizza is, without a doubt, a slice of heaven on earth.
I remember one night, I was out for a late-night stroll and stumbled upon this little gem tucked away in one of the quiet corners of Sanford.
The ambiance was warm and welcoming, and it was evident that it was a small local business providing excellent quality food and service.
It felt like home.
You can find SLAM Pizza and Cheesesteaks on Google Maps in the heart of Sanford.
One particular thing that stood out to me was their service.
I recall ordering at the register, settling down at one of the outside tables, and before I knew it, they brought the food to me.
And once I was done, they went above and beyond and picked up the plates for me.
It was this attention to detail that made me feel valued as a customer.
Kona Poké
I had a splendid time the other night at Kona Poké, and I just can't help but share it with everyone.
As soon as you step foot in the restaurant, you are greeted with the most welcoming atmosphere.
The customer service was top-notch.
They were so helpful and happy to serve, truly making the experience delightful.
Evidently, Kona Poké understands the importance of excellent customer service, and a lot of businesses out there could learn a thing or two from them.
Now, let's talk about the food.
It was my first time trying poke, and I must say, it was love at first bite!
The outcome was a bowl of fresh, flavorful goodness that I can't wait to have again.
Pupusas & Burrito Grill, LLC
I've always been a huge fan of pupusas, and I was thrilled to find a local gem that serves them in such an authentic manner.
The Pupusas & Burrito Grill, LLC, felt like a little piece of El Salvador, tucked away in my own neighborhood.
Their website Pupusas & Burrito Grill, LLC got me excited about their diverse menu, and I was not disappointed.
The moment I walked in, the spacious and clean environment put me at ease.
My sole purpose for visiting was to indulge in their pupusas, but I noticed they offer a plethora of non-Salvadorean dishes too.
I was pleasantly surprised when my meal was served with curtido, a type of cabbage relish.
As I took my first bite, memories of my past experiences with pupusas in Los Planes de Renderos came flooding back.
It was as if I was transported back to the mountainous landscapes of El Salvador.
The freshness of the pupusas was unmistakable, and I concluded that they were the best ones I'd tasted in Florida.
Le’s Pho
Every now and then, when my hunger calls for something authentic and full of flavor, I find myself heading to Le’s Pho, a delightful Vietnamese restaurant nestled in the Sanford/Orlando area.
Each visit to this hidden gem never fails to tantalize my taste buds, making it truly the best Pho restaurant that I've had the pleasure of dining at.
Their menu is brimming with sumptuous dishes.
On one occasion, I remember indulging in their B11 Le's wrap special and P15 basil seafood noodles - each bite was an explosion of flavor, truly a culinary celebration.
What I appreciate more about Le’s Pho is its reasonably priced menu.
It's a rare pleasure to find a place that serves such high-quality dishes without breaking the bank.
If you share my love for extra meat in your Pho, be sure to remind them at the counter.
Yabi Sushi
Just the other day, I decided to make a spontaneous visit to Yabi Sushi, a local gem here in Sanford.
I must say, the place has a very comfortable and streamlined setting that just beckons you to sit down and enjoy your meal.
Everything on the menu sounded incredibly tempting, making it a challenge to choose - especially when it comes to their sushi rolls.
I finally decided on the salmon sashimi, and it turned out to be the right choice.
The sashimi was thick, delicious, and, most importantly, tasted incredibly fresh.
I also opted for the hibachi, which was served with a fantastic Japanese onion soup.
One thing that struck me was how the hibachi plates were always stacked with food.
The kid's steak hibachi I ordered came with fried rice noodles and steak.
A Southern Delight: The Tennessee Truffle
One of the best parts about this city is the food, and there's no place that presents this better than The Tennessee Truffle.
This charming, farm-to-table eatery offers an inventive take on Southern fare that you won't find anywhere else.
The Tennessee Truffle is a culinary adventure right here in Sanford.
The ambiance is relaxed, making you feel right at home, and the interior is an absolute charm.
You can tell it's special the moment you step in the door.
Their seating is limited, so remember to call in advance for reservations.
What sets this place apart is the creativity that goes into every dish.
The food here is not only delicious but also full of unique touches.
My partner and I often share Mac & cheese with tomatoes, a dish that adds an unexpected but sweet touch.
The pan-seared salmon is my personal favorite, seared to perfection without losing its moist and tender texture.
But the dining experience doesn't stop at the food.
The service at The Tennessee Truffle is always top-notch.
It's a small gesture that makes a big difference in how special the experience feels.
My Breakfast Staple - State Market Restaurant
Every city has that one spot that simply feels like home, and for me, in our city, that spot is the State Market Restaurant.
This humble breakfast and lunch joint has become my refuge on lazy Sunday mornings.
It’s an old-style diner that sparks nostalgia with a warm local vibe.
Despite its small size, the place is always sparkling clean and possesses a sort of jovial energy that I find infectious.
The food, ah!
It’s classic American comfort food at its finest.
Their pancakes are fluffy and sweet, the tuna melts are creamy and melt in your mouth, and the burgers are hearty and delicious.
But my personal favorite has to be the Breakfast Boat, a scrumptious dish that I highly recommend to anyone who visits.
One thing that's always stood out to me is how efficient they are here.
Despite being busy, I've never had to wait long for a seat or my food.
Final Thoughts
The diverse culinary scene in Sanford, Florida, never fails to impress me.
From the hearty German food at Hollerbach's to the delightful sushi at Yabi, there's truly something for everyone here.
I'm continually amazed by the culinary creativity and sheer variety of food options in our vibrant city.
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