Enrich your getaway with a taste of Orlando’s Hispanic and Latino history and culture.
Florida learned to speak Spanish long before English — so it should come as no surprise that robust Hispanic and Latino communities call Orlando home. In fact, more than a third of our residents identify as Hispanic or Latino. Explore fascinating examples of Hispanic and Latino history and influence, including cultural attractions, special events, restaurants and other vibrant reasons to visit. Start here to discover it all.
Discover: Orlando for All
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Local Hispanic and Latino History
Hispanic and Latino people paved the way for modern-day Orlando, from the 1500s’ Spanish settlers to the Cuban and Puerto Rican immigrants of the 1960s-80s. Today, our Hispanic and Latino community hails from a rich mix of countries and cultures, particularly Puerto Rico, Mexico and Cuba, with representation from just about every Hispanic and Latino nation. These communities are integral to Central Florida’s economic, social and political wellbeing, taking cues from their ancestors’ traditions while helping to shape the region’s future. Take a closer look next trip.
Galleries & Museums
Dive in and explore our local history with permanent exhibitions dedicated to the impact of our Hispanic and Latino community, including the following year-round options.
Discover: Orlando Galleries & Museums
Art of the Ancient Americas: This permanent collection at the Orlando Museum of Art features over 900 works of art from more than 35 ancient cultures, including the Inca of Peru and Aztecs of central Mexico. You’ll also find the most comprehensive collection of Mexican Chupícuaro figurines in the southeastern U.S., with 160 different examples.
First Contact: This exhibition at Downtown Orlando’s Orange County Regional History Center explores the cultural influence of early Spanish settlers, the first Europeans to arrive in Florida.
¡Hola History!: The Osceola County Welcome Center & History Museum showcases the stories, achievements and impact of our Latin American community on Central Florida’s growth, from early settler days to modern times
The Terrace Gallery at Orlando City Hall also boasts rotating art exhibits throughout the year, including an annual Hispanic Heritage Month gallery featuring works by local and regional artists.
Architecture
Art & History Museums of Maitland: The Art & History Museums of Maitland are comprised of four unique museums, including the Maitland Art Center, a National Historic Landmark that’s home to one of the last surviving examples of Mayan Revival architecture in the Southeastern United States.
Casa Feliz: North of downtown Orlando in Winter Park, Casa Feliz (“Happy House” in English) is an Andalusian-style masonry farmhouse built on the shores of Lake Osceola during the Great Depression and since moved to its current location on Park Avenue. A must-visit for anyone with an interest in Spanish architecture, it offers docent-led tours of the home and grounds on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.
Annual Cultural Events
No matter when you visit Orlando, you’ll find special events and other unique things to do while you’re in town. Here are some of our top Hispanic and Latino cultural events worth planning a trip around.
Discover: Orlando Events
Florida Puerto Rican Parade & Festival
April
Typically hosted in late April, the Florida Puerto Rican Parade & Festival starts with a vibrant parade through downtown Orlando. The fun continues with food, live music, arts and crafts, and vendors. It’s part of a statewide Puerto Rican Parade initiative, which holds simultaneous parades in cities across Florida.
Orlando Salsa Congress
July
This multi-day event celebrates movement, music and culture through dance parties, shows, concerts, workshops and even pool parties.
Hispanic Heritage Month
Sept. 15 – Oct. 15
This month-long celebration is packed with special events, including concerts, festivals, exhibition openings, special menus and more. Some of the most noteworthy annual events during this time include Orlando Latino Fest, the weeklong Latin Festival of Performing Arts, and the Día de los Muertos & Monster Party, all hosted in downtown Orlando and the surrounding areas.
Discover: Hispanic Heritage Month
Fiesta Calle Orange
October
A massive, one-day celebration of music, Fiesta Calle Orange takes over 10 blocks of downtown Orlando with dozens of national and international artists on three action-packed stages, representing musical styles such as salsa, merengue and bachata. Traditional Latin food and beverages are available for purchase.
FusionFest
Thanksgiving Weekend
While it’s not exclusively dedicated to Hispanic and Latino cultures, FusionFest remains one of the top cultural celebrations in Orlando. The free, two-day festival features music, art, dance, food and more ways to explore over 110 global cultures.
Hispanic and Latino Restaurants
Mexican & Tex-Mex Restaurants
Antojitos Authentic Mexican Food: Enjoy Mexican favorites, handcrafted margaritas, tableside guacamole and live entertainment in a colorful cantina setting at Universal CityWalk (part of Universal Orlando Resort).
Black Rooster Taqueria: Husband-and-wife team John Calloway and Juliana Calloway serve a modern take on Mexican cuisine with sustainably sourced ingredients, handmade tortillas and plenty of local personality at Black Rooster Taqueria.
Ceiba: Take in sweeping views of Evermore Bay while exploring regional Mexican cuisine, including house-made salsas, masa, moles and an agave-forward beverage program, at this rooftop restaurant at Conrad Orlando.
Fat Rosie’s Taco & Tequila Bar: Scratch-made tacos, fajitas, street corn, mole and playful margaritas set the tone at Fat Rosie’s, an energetic restaurant near the University of Central Florida.
Frontera Cocina: Contemporary Mexican cooking and chef-driven dishes take center stage at Frontera Cocina, a vibrant Disney Springs® restaurant from celebrity chef Rick Bayless.
Kavas Tacos + Tequila: Husband-and-wife restaurateurs Katerina Coumbaros and Vassilis Coumbaros bring Mexican and Tex-Mex-inspired plates, an extensive tequila collection and spirited entertainment to this lively Mexican restaurant at Pointe Orlando.
La Hacienda de San Angel: Enjoy regional Mexican cuisine and waterfront views of World Showcase Lagoon at this EPCOT® restaurant operated by the three-generation, family-owned Palmas Restaurant Group.
LIME Fresh Mexican Grill: Build a casual meal around tacos, burritos, bowls, quesadillas and house-made salsas at LIME Fresh Mexican Grill, a colorful, Florida-based fast-casual concept with multiple Orlando locations.
Maya Grill: Discover contemporary Mexican dishes in a dramatic, art-filled dining room at Maya Grill, a semi-casual dining concept at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort.
Reyes Mezcaleria: Regional Mexican cooking, agave spirits and a sophisticated lounge atmosphere come together at Reyes Mezcaleria, a downtown-adjacent restaurant led by Michoacán-born and James Beard-nominated chef Wendy Lopez.
Rosa Mexicano: Known for its tableside guacamole, bold margaritas and polished presentation, Rosa Mexicano offers an elevated interpretation of Mexican classics at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort.
San Angel Inn Restaurante: Dine beneath a perpetual twilight sky with romantic views of EPCOT’s Gran Fiesta Tour boat ride while enjoying Mexican specialties at the San Angel Inn Restaurante, another sublime offering from the family-owned Palmas Restaurant Group. Also noteworthy is La Cava del Tequila, serving over 100 varieties of agave spirits in the same plaza.
Señor Frog’s Orlando: Mexican-inspired dishes, oversized drinks, music and interactive entertainment create a high-energy dining experience inside Señor Frog’s on International Drive.
Solita Tacos & Margaritas: Oak-grilled tacos, house-made salsas, margaritas and Baja California influences distinguish Solita Tacos & Margaritas in downtown Orlando’s City District.
Superica: Tex-Mex favorites, wood-grilled dishes and a lively cantina atmosphere come together at Superica, a laid-back Winter Park restaurant with an Old West atmosphere.
TodoVos: Cantina-style dishes, tequila tastings, margaritas and churros create a lively gathering place at TodoVos, part of Hilton Orlando on International Drive.
Agave Azul Cocina Mexicana: Family-owned and operated since 1998, Agave Azul blends traditional and contemporary Mexican flavors with a lively atmosphere across multiple Central Florida locations.
Azteca D’Oro Mexican Restaurant: Pair classic Mexican dishes and generous portions with festive décor and live mariachi performances.
El Patron Restaurante Mexicano: This family-owned restaurant near Walt Disney World Resort pairs traditional Mexican dishes and Latin-inspired entrées with a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere.
Garibaldi Mexican Cuisine: A family-owned local favorite, this restaurant near The Florida Mall® features traditional Mexican fare, plus a live mariachi band on weekends.
Rocco’s Tacos & Tequila Bar: Tableside guacamole, tacos, margaritas and a large tequila selection fuel the festive atmosphere at this Restaurant Row hangout.
Uncle Julio’s: Made-from-scratch Tex-Mex dishes, sizzling fajitas, tableside guacamole and shareable chocolate piñatas make this International Drive restaurant a festive option for groups.
Spanish Restaurants & Tapas
Bulla Gastrobar: Gather over Spanish and Catalan-inspired tapas, seasonal dishes, handcrafted cocktails and weekend brunch at this lively Winter Park gastrobar.
Capa Steakhouse & Bar: Spanish-influenced cuisine, expertly grilled steaks and rooftop views make this MICHELIN recommended restaurant a sophisticated choice for a special evening. Capa is on the top floor of the Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World® Resort.
JALEO by José Andrés: Celebrate Spain’s regional diversity with tapas, cheeses, cured meats and wood-fired paella at José Andrés’ JALEO, a colorful restaurant at Disney Springs.
Toledo – Tapas, Steak & Seafood: Spanish tapas, steaks, seafood, paella and an extensive Spanish wine collection complement sweeping rooftop views at Toledo, part of Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort.
Argentine Restaurants
Alma Argentina: Family-owned and inspired by the comforting flavors of home, Alma Argentina serves empanadas, milanesas, grilled meats and oven-baked pastries in a warm, welcoming setting. Visit them near Walt Disney World Resort and stay tuned for additional locations coming to College Park and Lake Nona.
Brazilian Restaurants
Adega Gaucha Brazilian Steakhouse: Experience traditional rodizio-style dining with fire-roasted meats carved tableside, a gourmet market table and warm Brazilian hospitality at locations in Kissimmee and near The Florida Mall.
BoiBrazil Churrascaria: Enjoy an all-you-care-to-eat selection of grilled meats, Brazilian side dishes and a salad bar at this casual International Drive churrascaria.
Boteco Restaurant: Go beyond the traditional steakhouse experience with Brazilian comfort food including feijoada, moqueca, picanha, pastéis and more at Boteco Restaurant on I-Drive.
Chima Steakhouse Orlando: Experience authentic Brazilian rodizio with fire-roasted meats, a gourmet salad bar and a refined setting via Chima Steakhouse on Restaurant Row.
Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse: Gaucho chefs carve fire-roasted meats tableside while guests complement their selections with seasonal salads, vegetables, soups and charcuterie from the market table. Feast at locations on International Drive and near Walt Disney World Resort.
Rodizio Grill: Choose from rotisserie-grilled meats served tableside, traditional Brazilian accompaniments and an abundant gourmet salad bar at Rodizio Grill, part of Pointe Orlando.
Café Mineiro Brazilian Steakhouse: Pair rodizio-style meats with Brazilian specialties and a plentiful buffet at this relaxed International Drive dining destination.
Texas de Brazil: Brazilian churrasco tradition meets Texas-sized hospitality with tableside-carved meats, an extensive salad area and a polished group-dining atmosphere.
Colombian Restaurants
Super Rico Colombia: What began as a food truck grew into a downtown Orlando restaurant serving Colombian dishes inspired by family recipes, including empanadas, arepas, bandeja paisa and Colombian-style burgers.
Cuban Restaurants and Cafes
Cuba Libre Restaurant & Rum Bar: Escape to a theatrical Old Havana-inspired setting with Cuban dishes, mojitos, an extensive rum selection and late-night dancing at this classic Pointe Orlando restaurant.
Estefan Kitchen Orlando: Created by music legends Gloria and Emilio Estefan, this self-named restaurant pairs Cuban cuisine and cocktails with live music and vibrant entertainment at Promenade at Sunset Walk.
Harry’s Poolside Bar & Grill: Escape to a relaxed poolside setting at Rosen Centre Hotel, where Caribbean-Cuban-inspired dishes include ropa vieja, conch fritters, banana leaf-wrapped mahi mahi and tropical cocktails.
Otto’s High Dive: Cuban-inspired food, Florida ingredients, espresso and an acclaimed rum program come together at Otto’s High Dive, a MICHELIN Bib Gourmand restaurant inspired by family.
Black Bean Deli: Enjoy Cuban sandwiches, empanadas, pastries, café con leche and comforting daily specials at this casual local favorite with multiple Central Florida locations.
Zaza Cuban Comfort Food: Start the day with Cuban coffee and breakfast favorites or stop in later for sandwiches, bowls, empanadas and other casual Cuban comfort foods.
Latin, Fusion and Globally Inspired Restaurants
BACÁN: Bold flavors from Central America, South America and the Caribbean inspire the artful menu at BACÁN, a MICHELIN Recommended restaurant inside the Lake Nona Wave Hotel.
Cafe Tu Tu Tango: Share globally inspired small plates, including street corn, tacos, Cuban sliders and Latin-influenced dishes, all while surrounded by working artists and nightly entertainment at Cafe Tu Tu Tango on International Drive.
Corazón by Baires: Explore broader Latin American flavors in an immersive, romantic setting at Corazón by Baires on International Drive.
JJ’s Scratch Cocina: Celebrate the beauty of Latin and Mediterranean cuisine with fresh ingredients and thoughtful presentation at JJ’s Scratch Cocina, part of the Curry Ford West district near downtown Orlando.
Mamazzita Gastrobar: Latin American-inspired dishes, cocktails, music and nightlife energy come together at this vibrant Orlando gastrobar.
Paradiso 37: Explore flavors from across North, Central and South America at Paradiso 37, a waterfront Disney Springs restaurant with Latin-Caribbean flair, live music and a wide tequila selection.
Sebastian’s Bistro: Latin and Caribbean flavors anchor the menu at Sebastian’s Bistro, a family-style restaurant at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort.
Sparrow Wine Bar: Sip wine and share Southern European-inspired plates at this intimate North Quarter lounge, where the menu draws from Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian culinary traditions.
Peruvian Restaurants
Pisco Peruvian Gastrobar: Contemporary Peruvian cooking, ceviche, Japanese Peruvian influences and pisco cocktails come together at this polished restaurant with locations in Lake Nona and Lake Mary.
El Inka Grill: Experience a welcoming atmosphere, friendly service and authentic Peruvian flavors at El Inka Grill, with locations in Dr. Phillips and Hunters Creek.
Puerto Rican Restaurants
Crocante Restaurant + Bar: Chef-owner Yamuel Bigio puts a polished spin on Puerto Rican comfort food at Crocante, a local favorite best known for its signature porchetta and creative interpretations of island classics.
El Cilantrillo: Generous portions of Puerto Rican favorites, including mofongo, churrasco, seafood and fried cheese, make this a lively choice for family meals and celebrations.
Venezuelan Restaurants
Mordisco Steakhouse Orlando: Venezuelan and Caribbean flavors meet wood-fired cooking at this stylish International Drive restaurant, with specialties ranging from grilled meats and ceviche to tequeños and Venezuelan chocolate marquesa.
FAQ: Hispanic and Latino Travel Guide
What are the best ways to experience Hispanic and Latino culture in Orlando?
Visitors can explore Hispanic and Latino culture throughout Orlando at museums, historic sites, annual festivals, performing arts events and restaurants representing traditions from global cultures. Highlights include cultural exhibitions, Hispanic Heritage Month celebrations, the Florida Puerto Rican Parade & Festival, Fiesta Calle Orange, FusionFest and an extensive selection of Mexican, Puerto Rican, Cuban, Colombian, Peruvian, Venezuelan, Argentine, Brazilian and Spanish restaurants.
Where can I learn about Hispanic and Latino history in Orlando?
Orlando-area museums and galleries explore Hispanic and Latino history through art, architecture and exhibitions. Options include Art of the Ancient Americas at the Orlando Museum of Art, First Contact at the Orange County Regional History Center and ¡Hola History! at the Osceola County Welcome Center & History Museum. Orlando City Hall’s Terrace Gallery also presents rotating exhibitions, including an annual Hispanic Heritage Month gallery featuring local and regional artists.
Which Orlando museums feature Hispanic or Latin American art and history?
The Orlando Museum of Art’s permanent Art of the Ancient Americas collection features more than 900 works from over 35 ancient cultures, including the Inca of Peru and Aztecs of central Mexico. The museum’s holdings also include 160 Mexican Chupícuaro figurines. Visitors can find additional cultural history at the Orange County Regional History Center and the Osceola County Welcome Center & History Museum.
Where can I see Spanish-influenced architecture near Orlando?
Visitors interested in Spanish-influenced architecture can explore Casa Feliz in Winter Park, an Andalusian-style masonry farmhouse on Park Avenue. The Maitland Art Center at the Art & History Museums of Maitland is another noteworthy stop, featuring one of the last surviving examples of Mayan Revival architecture in the Southeastern United States.
When is Hispanic Heritage Month celebrated in Orlando?
Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated from Sept. 15 through Oct. 15. Orlando marks the occasion with concerts, festivals, exhibition openings, special menus and other cultural experiences, including annual events in downtown Orlando and surrounding areas.
What Hispanic and Latino festivals take place in Orlando?
Annual celebrations include the Florida Puerto Rican Parade & Festival, Orlando Salsa Congress, Hispanic Heritage Month events, Fiesta Calle Orange and FusionFest. These events feature combinations of live music, dance, food, art, workshops, performances and cultural activities.
When is the Florida Puerto Rican Parade & Festival?
The Florida Puerto Rican Parade & Festival is typically held in late April. The celebration begins with a parade through downtown Orlando and continues with food, live music, arts and crafts, and vendors.
What is Orlando Salsa Congress?
Orlando Salsa Congress is a multi-day July celebration centered on dance, music and culture. Its programming includes dance parties, shows, concerts, workshops and pool parties.
What is Fiesta Calle Orange?
Fiesta Calle Orange is a one-day October celebration that takes over 10 blocks of downtown Orlando. Dozens of national and international artists perform across three stages, with music including salsa, merengue and bachata. Traditional Latin food and beverages are also available for purchase.
What is FusionFest in Orlando?
FusionFest is a free, two-day multicultural festival held during Thanksgiving weekend. The event features music, art, dance, food and opportunities to explore more than 110 global cultures, including Hispanic and Latino traditions.
What types of Hispanic and Latino restaurants can I find in Orlando?
Orlando’s dining scene includes Mexican and Tex-Mex restaurants, Spanish tapas restaurants, Argentine restaurants, Brazilian steakhouses, Colombian restaurants, Cuban restaurants and cafes, Peruvian restaurants, Puerto Rican restaurants, Venezuelan restaurants, and globally inspired concepts influenced by Latin American and Caribbean flavors.
Where can I find Mexican food in Orlando?
Mexican and Tex-Mex dining options are available throughout the Orlando area, including International Drive, Restaurant Row, Winter Park, downtown Orlando, Disney Springs, Universal CityWalk, Pointe Orlando and the Walt Disney World Resort area. The blog highlights restaurants ranging from casual taco and burrito concepts to rooftop dining, chef-driven regional Mexican cuisine and immersive theme park restaurants.
Where can I find Spanish tapas and paella in Orlando?
Visitors can enjoy Spanish tapas and paella at Bulla Gastrobar in Winter Park, Capa Steakhouse & Bar at Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort, JALEO by José Andrés at Disney Springs, and Toledo – Tapas, Steak & Seafood at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort. Their offerings include tapas, Spanish wines, grilled meats, seafood, cured meats, cheeses and paella.
Where can I find Brazilian steakhouses in Orlando?
Brazilian steakhouses can be found on International Drive, Restaurant Row, at Pointe Orlando, near The Florida Mall, in Kissimmee and near Walt Disney World Resort. Featured options include Adega Gaucha Brazilian Steakhouse, BoiBrazil Churrascaria, Chima Steakhouse Orlando, Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse, Rodizio Grill, Café Mineiro Brazilian Steakhouse and Texas de Brazil.
Where can I find Cuban food in Orlando?
Cuban and Cuban-inspired dining options include Cuba Libre Restaurant & Rum Bar at Pointe Orlando, Estefan Kitchen Orlando at Promenade at Sunset Walk, Harry’s Poolside Bar & Grill at Rosen Centre Hotel, Otto’s High Dive, Black Bean Deli and Zaza Cuban Comfort Food. Depending on the restaurant, visitors can find Cuban sandwiches, empanadas, pastries, café con leche, ropa vieja, mojitos and other Cuban-inspired dishes and drinks.
Where can I find Puerto Rican food in Orlando?
The guide highlights Crocante Restaurant + Bar, where chef-owner Yamuel Bigio presents creative interpretations of Puerto Rican comfort food, including the restaurant’s signature porchetta. It also features El Cilantrillo, known for generous portions of Puerto Rican favorites such as mofongo, churrasco, seafood and fried cheese.
Does Orlando have Peruvian and Venezuelan restaurants?
Yes. Featured Peruvian options include Pisco Peruvian Gastrobar, with locations in Lake Nona and Lake Mary, and El Inka Grill in Dr. Phillips and Hunters Creek. Mordisco Steakhouse Orlando on International Drive serves Venezuelan- and Caribbean-influenced dishes, including grilled meats, ceviche, tequeños and Venezuelan chocolate marquesa.
Are there Michelin-recognized Latin restaurants in Orlando?
Yes. Examples include MICHELIN Recommended BACÁN at the Lake Nona Wave Hotel and Capa Steakhouse & Bar at Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort. Another option is Otto’s High Dive, a MICHELIN Bib Gourmand restaurant serving Cuban-inspired food, Florida ingredients, espresso and rum.
Is Orlando’s Hispanic and Latino culture limited to Hispanic Heritage Month?
No. Hispanic Heritage Month brings additional concerts, festivals, exhibitions and special menus from Sept. 15 through Oct. 15, but Orlando offers year-round opportunities to experience Hispanic and Latino history, art, architecture, food and culture. Permanent museum collections, historic sites and restaurants can be explored throughout the year, while annual cultural events take place in several different seasons.
How can I plan a Hispanic and Latino cultural itinerary in Orlando?
Start by combining a museum or historic site with a restaurant representing a cuisine that interests you, then check Orlando’s events calendar for festivals, exhibitions and live performances happening during your visit. Visit Orlando’s Vacation Planners offer complimentary personalized assistance, and OPAL, Visit Orlando’s AI planning assistant, can also help visitors plot their adventures.
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