After over 50 years of serving the Central Florida community, Maitland’s iconic sub shop, Kappy’s Subs, announced it is officially closing its doors for business on Sept. 14. In a Facebook post, Executive Chef Adam Milsom said the 52-year-old business has come to an end due to a leasing issue.
Since its opening, the restaurant has served as a traditional place for the community to satisfy its appetite.
Now, the search for a new place to eat is on.
Check out these five must-try restaurants in Central Florida to find your next go to spot.
5355 E. Colonial Drive, Orlando
With a four-star Yelp review, Hot Dog Heaven is exactly that, heaven. Serving up any kind of hot dog you can dream of from their classic authentic Chicago hot dog to chili dogs and slaw dogs, Hot Dog Heaven is the place to be Wednesday through Saturday. The restaurant’s iconic reputation earned it the first place spot ahead of Cholo Dogs and Protillos on Orlando Weekly’s Best of Orlando list for having the best hot dogs two years in a row, 2023-24.
424 N. Bumby Ave., Orlando
Located just east of the heart of Orlando’s Lake Eola on Bumby Avenue, Beefy King has been serving its signature roast beef sandwiches for over 50 years. The family-owned business has been run by three generations since its opening in 1968. The restaurant is a meat lovers go to hub for freshly made roast beef, ham, turkey, pastrami, corned beef, barbeque beef and barbeque pork sandwiches served hot. Choose from select specialty sandwiches such as the smoked turkey deluxe or skip the carbs with a chef salad.
Bubbalou’s Bodacious Bar-B-Que
5818 Conroy Road, Orlando
1049 East Altamonte Drive, Altamonte Springs
If you live in Central Florida, chances are you’ve seen the three famous dancing pigs. With one location on Conroy Road in Orlando and another on Altamonte Drive in Altamonte Springs, Bubbalou’s has been serving classic southern barbeque straight from the firepit for over 35 years. The restaurant’s old-fashioned barbeque cuisine has earned it awards from Zagat’s, Southern Living and USA Today. Select from their packed menu filled with bodacious combos, Bubbalou’s baskets and more.
556 E. 3rd Ave., New Smyrna Beach
While feasting on highly-rated cuisine, become fully immersed in the enchanted forest scenery at The Garlic in New Smyrna. This restaurant is known for its delicious Italian meals, live entertainment, rustic gift shop and its magical ambiance filled with string lights, greenery and vintage, recycled décor. Indulge in The Garlic’s extensive selection of pasta, chicken, seafood, beef, salads and more. For the full Garlic experience, try one of their Il Forno menu items which will be cooked in their 800-degree Fahrenheit woodfired brick oven.
601 Ponce Deleon Blvd., De Leon Springs
At Old Sugar Mill Pancake House, playing with your food is not only allowed but a necessity. This restaurant doubles as both a place to eat and fun activity. Test your culinary skills, or lack thereof, by making your own pancakes on an electric griddle built directly into your table. Despite the name, Old Sugar Mill Pancake House’s menu doesn’t end at pancakes. Choose from a list of savory or sweet toppings and breakfast add-ons, sandwiches, salads, paninis and fresh bakery items.
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