Orlando may be world-famous for its theme parks, but beyond the rides lies a rich and diverse culinary scene. Among the city’s international flavors, Colombian cuisine stands out for its warmth, boldness, and heart. Picture the aroma of freshly baked pastries filling the air, the crispiness of golden empanadas, the comforting richness of traditional arepas, and the inviting depth of authentic Colombian coffee—every dish crafted to transport diners straight to Colombia.
For food lovers seeking an unforgettable culinary experience, Orlando offers a selection of Colombian restaurants that deliver more than just meals, offering an extraordinary adventure. From cozy cafés to vibrant family-style eateries, here are the Top 5 Colombian Restaurants in Orlando where every bite celebrates tradition, every flavor tells a story, and every visit leaves a lasting impression.
Mecatos Bakery & Cafe - Waterford Lakes, located at 12400 Lake Underhill Rd, Unit 103, Orlando, FL 32828, is far more than just a café. It’s a lively celebration of Colombian culture, flavors, and warmth, bringing the heart and soul of Colombia straight to Orlando. Since its launch in 2015, Mecatos has gained a reputation as a top destination for Colombian coffee and pastries in Orlando, and this Waterford Lakes location perfectly captures the essence of what makes Mecatos so special. Its cozy atmosphere, inviting décor, and the aroma of freshly baked goods make it a must-visit spot for both locals and visitors seeking authentic Colombian flavors.
What truly sets Mecatos Bakery & Cafe apart is the experience it offers. Waterford Lakes provides a welcoming space where guests can savor their coffee, enjoy pastries, or sit down for a hearty Colombian meal. The warm, vibrant ambiance reflects the lively spirit of Colombia itself, making every visit feel like a mini cultural escape. Friendly staff, a bright and cheerful café design, and the irresistible aroma of baked goods create an atmosphere that invites relaxation, conversation, and connection.
Every item at Mecatos is a celebration of Colombian culinary traditions. Guests can start their experience with a robust cup of freshly brewed Colombian coffee, perfectly paired with a warm pan de bono, available in classic, guava, Nutella, or dulce de leche flavors. Crispy buñuelos and savory empanadas, filled with beef, chicken, or cheese, are always crowd-pleasers. Meanwhile, indulgent roscones - oversized pastries filled with guava, dulce de leche, or cream cheese - offer a sweet, shareable treat that’s impossible to resist.
For those looking for a more substantial meal, arepas rellenas stuffed with chicken, steak, cheese, or chorizo deliver authentic Colombian comfort, while Colombian-style hot dogs and burgers topped with pineapple sauce, mozzarella, and garlic mayo offer a playful twist on classic favorites. Mecatos Bakery & Cafe also features menu combos that pair empanadas, pastries, and drinks into convenient, satisfying packages, perfect for families, friends, or anyone seeking a well-rounded meal in one stop. For dessert lovers, the café’s tres leches cake, panna cotta, dulce de leche, alfajores, and fresh pastries provide the perfect finale to any visit.
Beyond the café experience, Mecatos brings its flavors to the broader community through catering services. From birthdays to office events and large gatherings, the catering menu includes trays of empanadas, tequeños, pastries, desserts, and coffee, ensuring that Colombian hospitality and tradition can be enjoyed anywhere. This dedication to community makes Mecatos more than a café; it’s a cornerstone of Colombian culture in Orlando.
Despite the popularity of Waterford Lakes, Mecatos has expanded throughout Orlando, making Colombian flavors accessible throughout the city. Locations include:
Mecatos Bakery & Café Lake Underhill - 7790 Lake Underhill Rd Unit 101
Mecatos Bakery & Cafe Lake Nona - 10783 Narcoossee Rd Suite 125–129
Mecatos Bakery & Cafe Downtown Orlando - 20 N Orange Ave Ste 102A
Mecatos Bakery & Cafe W. Colonial / Ocoee - 10151 W Colonial Dr, Ocoee
Mecatos Bakery & Cafe Metrowest - 2900 S Kirkman Rd, Orlando
Mecatos Bakery & Cafe Hoffner - 5645 Hansel Ave, Edgewood
Mecatos Bakery & Cafe Curry Ford - 2904 Curry Ford Rd, Orlando
Mecatos Bakery & Cafe Apopka - 1725 Ocoee Apopka Rd, Apopka
Every Mecatos location brings the heart of Colombia to Orlando, combining authentic flavors, freshly brewed coffee, and a warm, inviting atmosphere. From the first bite of a golden empanada to the last sip of rich Colombian coffee, each visit promises a taste of home, a moment of comfort, and a memory worth savoring.
Another local favorite is Café de Colombia, a restaurant that proudly brings traditional Colombian home-style meals to Orlando. The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, offering a slice of Colombia’s warm hospitality. Their menu features Colombian classics, including bandeja paisa, a platter loaded with beans, rice, steak, chicharrón, egg, avocado, and plantains.
Café de Colombia also excels in hearty soups, including sancocho, which is perfect for those seeking comfort food. If you’re looking for a place that feels both authentic and affordable, this restaurant is a wonderful option to experience Colombian flavors in their truest form.
If you’re craving generous portions and bold Colombian flavors, Mi Gordito Paisa should be on your list. This restaurant is particularly loved for its grilled meats and family-style platters, which capture the essence of Colombian dining, emphasizing the joy of sharing and enjoying food together.
Their bandeja paisa is a must-try, but you’ll also want to explore their arepas rellenas (stuffed arepas) and jugos naturales (fresh fruit juices) made with tropical fruits like lulo, guanábana, and maracuyá. With a relaxed atmosphere and budget-friendly prices, Mi Gordito Paisa is the perfect spot for both casual meals and group outings.
While lechon (roast pork) is central to Puerto Rican cuisine, Lechonera Latina in Orlando also serves delicious Colombian specialties, making it a fusion-style eatery with wide appeal. What draws many customers here are the flavorful Colombian empanadas and hearty rice and meat dishes.
The restaurant is casual, vibrant, and designed for quick, satisfying meals. Their Colombian-style beans and plantains are a standout, pairing perfectly with roasted meats. For those exploring Orlando’s international dining scene, Lechonera Latina is a fun stop where Colombian cuisine is celebrated alongside other Latin flavors.
True to its name, El Arepazo Colombiano specializes in one of Colombia’s most iconic foods: the arepa. This restaurant is dedicated to offering a wide variety of arepas, from simple cheese-filled ones to more elaborate versions loaded with meats, eggs, and vegetables.
But it doesn’t stop at arepas. El Arepazo Colombiano also serves classic dishes such as chicharrón con arepa, Colombian soups, and refreshing drinks like avena (a creamy oat-based beverage). The restaurant is casual and family-friendly, making it an ideal spot for both newcomers to Colombian cuisine and seasoned enthusiasts.
Colombian cuisine is far more than just a meal. It’s a vibrant celebration of culture, tradition, and heartfelt hospitality. From the first bite of a golden, crispy empanada to the last sip of rich, aromatic Colombian coffee, every dish carries the warmth and passion of Colombia straight to your plate. Orlando’s Colombian restaurants, led by the iconic Mecatos Bakery & Cafe, don’t just satisfy hunger but create moments of connection, comfort, and joy, turning every visit into an authentic culinary experience.
For those seeking bold, memorable flavors and a genuine taste of Colombian tradition, these top Colombian restaurants in Orlando, including Café de Colombia, Mi Gordito Paisa, Lechonera Latina, and El Arepazo Colombiano, offer a journey through Colombia’s diverse culinary landscape. At the heart of this vibrant scene, Mecatos stands as a shining example of authenticity, community, and unwavering passion, making it a must-visit destination for anyone eager to savor the true essence of Colombia in Orlando.
Next time Orlando calls for a unique culinary adventure, step into one of these cafés and let every bite and sip transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Colombia.
Supriyo Khan
Supriyo Khan
Supriyo Khan
Supriyo Khan
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