What’s on the Menu

Hayashi Taro’s omakase bento boxes (chef-selected meals served in a single box) range from $25 to $75. The restaurant says its seafood is brought in from Tokyo’s Toyosu Market. The boxes are designed to be shared, so guests can dine in or enjoy them at home. The menu builds on the growing Japanese culinary influence in the area.

The Matcha Tea Ceremony

Hayashi Taro also offers traditional Japanese matcha tea ceremonies led by tea sommelier Mai Mitarai, who trained under Yoshiko Hardick, a certified instructor of the Omote Senke School of Tea in Kyoto, Japan.

The ceremony uses first-harvest matcha stone-ground at Tsuji, a 160-year-old tea estate in Uji, Kyoto. Each serving goes through several traditional steps:

• Measured with a bamboo chashaku scoop
• Combined with hot water warmed in a cast-iron kama kettle
• Whisked to order in a handcrafted chawan tea bowl

Japanese Ceramics

The shop also sells handcrafted Japanese ceramics, including tea bowls, plates, etc., so guests can bring a piece of the experience home. This is both great for people out on dates in Mills 50 and for travelers coming to visit for the day.

The Orizume House Concept

Hayashi Taro is built around the Orizume House concept, “orizume” is the traditional Japanese culinary art of packing a seasonal, multi-course meal inside a delicately folded wooden box called an ori-bako.

“Our goal with Hayashi Taro is to create an immersive space around our Orizume House concept, where guests can experience the craftsmanship behind tea and food preparation,” says Chef-Owner Lewis Lin. “We wanted to make high-level omakase and Japanese cultural experiences far more approachable and unpretentious, offering a refined meal that guests can easily share and enjoy at home.”

Hayashi Taro at a Glance

Opens: October 29, 2026

Address: 714 N Mills Ave, Orlando, FL 32803 (Mills 50 District)

Cuisine: Japanese omakase bento boxes, matcha tea ceremonies

Price range: $25 to $75 per bento box

Website: hayashitarofl.com

First some background: Tucked into southwest Orlando between the theme park crowds of International Drive and the quieter lakefront communities nearby, Doctor Phillips has a reputation as a place where locals actually eat out. The neighborhood is named for Dr. Philip Phillips, the physician-turned-citrus magnate whose groves once covered much of the area, a reminder of the days when Central Florida’s economy ran on oranges rather than tourists.

Agave Azul Dr. Phillips: Social Hour runs Monday through Friday from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. and features $8 margaritas and cocktails as well as deals on beer and wine. There are also discounts on appetizers. On my last visit, I enjoyed the birria nachos, but the shrimp tacos are also a great deal. 8685 Fenton St #120, Orlando, FL 32836

American Social Orlando: Their Social Hour runs daily from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. and also from 10 p.m. to close. I recommend the Goat Cheese Croquettes, Loaded Guac, as well as the Spinach and Artichoke Dip. Guests can enjoy $6 Margaritas and House Wines and $10 Specialty Cocktails. Also, don’t miss their Thursday 2-for-1 select cocktails and wines, along with bubbles and bites offerings. 7335 W Sand Lake Rd #101, Orlando, FL 32819

Dragonfly Sushi: Excellent prices on basic sushi rolls, appetizers, and cocktails and other libations. My go-to is their version of the Mexican Roll and their specialty roll. Dragonfly has always been a top option for happy hour and this one does not disappoint. It will get packed, but happy hour is both at the inside bar and out on their patio deck. Happy hour runs 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. 7972 Via Dellagio Way, Orlando, FL 32819.

DOMU Dr. Phillips: This is a daily happy hour from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. and all night on Tuesdays. It will get packed both inside and out so show up early or plan accordingly. The happy hour is limited to cocktails and libations only, but will drop them below $10. Enjoy with their incredible Domu Wings. 7600 Dr Phillips Blvd #14, Orlando, FL 32819.

Pho Bar Vietnamese Kitchen: The most unassuming happy hour will give you half-off cocktails and spirits across their menu daily from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Pho Bar. They also have select appetizers for $7 including wings and brussel sprouts. This is definitely a top-tier quality happy hour and right now to Dragonfly Sushi if you want to keep enjoying deals right afterward. 7988 Via Dellagio Way #104, Orlando, FL 32819.

Orlando has no shortage of happy hours, but these five are worth the trip. Go early, bring friends, and let me know your favorite.

About me: Hello my name is Carlos Hernandez and I am a writer and journalist with over 15 years of experience. I write the food and travel blog Carlos Eats (https://www.carloseats.com) and also contribute to several newspapers and magazines on numerous topics.

Osaka has no shortage of great coffee shops, and after several visits to the city, I’ve built up a solid list of favorites. Whether you’re a specialty coffee purist or just need a comfortable place to sit and recharge, there’s something there for you.

TASOGARE COFFEE

Probably one of my favorite places I have visited and lounged at to in all of Osaka. The vibe is welcoming and they have dirty chai as well as cascara cola! I ordered espresso and tonic during my visit. The baristas are serious about coffee. Tasogare is very spacious and swanky, the staff is friendly, and its filled with a mixture of travelers and locals. They have plant-based alternatives for those seeking that. Expect to spend around ¥500–¥950 (~$3–$6) per beverage based on my last visit.

RE-008 1F, 1-chōme−16−11 Minamihorie, Nishi Ward, Osaka 542-0081 @tasogare_coffee_jp

Glitch Coffee and Roasters Osaka

Fancy coffee inside a hotel with swanky people. This location is inside the Conrad Osaka specifically inside Nakanoshima Festival Tower West, not too far from Osaka Castle. It’s a great space to people watch. The coffee is for purists, if you are not into coffee culture it won’t be your spot. Prices can run up to ¥2,000 or higher (~$12) for a pour over. It was packed with Europeans during my visit. Sit at the bar to watch the baristas in action or grab a seat around the cafe, but be warned it gets very busy.

〒530-0005 Osaka, Kita Ward, Nakanoshima, 3 Chome−2−4, Festival Tower West 1F @glitch_coffee_osaka shop.glitchcoffee.com

MONDIAL KAFFEE 328 CLUB A

I’m an early riser when I travel, which can be a problem in Japan as most coffee shops don’t open until 9 a.m. or later. Mondial Kaffee was the first place I found open, and the wait was worth it. Their espresso tonic was excellent, and they sell packaged coffee to go, which made for a great travel souvenir. Part of a local chain, their morning breakfast sets are very affordable at around ¥1,000 (~$6).

1 Chome-10-4 Nishishinsaibashi, Chuo Ward, Osaka 542-0086 @mondial_kaffee328club.a mondial-kaffee328.com

THE RITA COFFEE Osaka

Think of this as the Japanese equivalent of Starbucks: reliable, comfortable, and packed with plugs and Wi-Fi. It wasn’t the most memorable coffee of the trip, but it was exactly what I needed: a calm place to sit, charge my devices, and catch my breath before meeting friends at the Osaka Aquarium nearby. Sometimes that’s all you need.

1 Chome-1-21 Sakuragawa, Naniwa Ward, Osaka 556-0022 @the_rita_coffee

Osaka’s coffee scene is deep, and this list only scratches the surface. Whether you’re chasing a perfect pour-over or just need somewhere quiet to sit and recharge from all the mayhem of traveling, the city will not disappoint. If you make it to any of these spots, let me know what you think and if you have a favorite I missed, drop it in the comments.

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Barakah Beans is hosting their grand opening October 17, 2026, in Kissimmee at 3262 Vineland Rd Ste 104, Kissimmee, FL 34746. The coffee shop has craft drinks, Middle East-inspired drinks, good quality espresso, comfortable seating, plenty of plugs, Wi-Fi, and even food. The cafe is part of a growing trend of Middle East-inspired opening.

The owner, Shams, started Barakah Beans after unexpectedly losing her job. “Barakah” means blessing in Arabic and the owner hopes for this business to be a “small blessing in someone’s day.” Specialized menu items include their Pistachio Latte, Dubai Chocolate, and Adeni Chai. Prices are fair and will run you between $4-8 for a drink.

From Vineland near Disney Springs you can expect about a 10 minute drive to Barakah Beans near Publix and Walmart and around the area where many tourists will vacation outside of the usual Disney corridor.

The best part? The cafe is open late and closes at 10 p.m. on most days and even midnight on Saturdays (hopefully this continues). I am an advocate for more late-night cafes in Florida.

Find more information at barakahbeans.com.

About me: Hello my name is Carlos Hernandez and I am a writer and journalist with over 15 years of experience. I write the food and travel blog Carlos Eats (https://www.carloseats.com) and also contribute to several newspapers and magazines on numerous topics.

Cooler Tampa weather makes this the best season to be outdoors with more moderate nighttime temperatures. Feeling the breeze on the rooftop at night is quite the experience with city lights in the distance. Private table rentals are available for parties. Food and cocktails are sourced Azure.

Valet parking is available on-site and there are also a number of parking lots and garages nearby.

The easiest way to keep up with what is happening is to check out the events page on the Tampa EDITION’s website. At the beginning of the month they feature local artists and creatives with the next one happening on November 6, 2026 at 8 p.m., featuring Tampa-based photographer Greg Bryon. The collection will be curated by AADMIXX, with expertly crafted cocktails and sounds by HILARY.

Dining at Azure at EDITION rooftop restaurant

Just inside from the rooftop deck is Azure at EDITION with seaside-inspired Greek cuisine from Michelin-starred Chef John Fraser. The menu features shareable sides and a number of thoughtful takes on Mediterranean food.

A perfect Sunday brunch experience that can easily cater to large groups and gatherings. The elevated cocktail menu also takes classics and adds an interesting twist to them. I personally enjoyed the espresso martinis.

My favorites from the visit were the calamari, whipped feta, and hummus, and the Filet Mignon Kebabs were a standout. The fries were great too and the pita bread was some of the best I’ve enjoyed in Florida. Next time, I’d like to try the burger, which looked delicious and seems to be a popular pick. Reservations are available on OpenTable.

New spa experiences at The Tampa EDITION

In addition, The Tampa EDITION has opened Ammortal Chamber as an investment in the next generation of luxury wellness. This experience approaches self-care as an essential act of restoration, encouraging guests to replenish themselves before pouring into anything else. The experience options include Red and Near-Infrared Light Therapy (PBM), Pulsed Energetic Fields, Molecular Hydrogen Therapy, Vibroacoustic Sound Therapy, and Guided Breathwork and Meditation.

“We are thrilled to bring the cutting-edge technology of the Ammortal Chamber to Tampa Bay,” says Laura Majer, Spa Director.

“The Ammortal Chamber represents a new chapter for wellness at The Tampa EDITION, offering a profound, multi-sensory escape that leaves our guests feeling revitalized from the cellular level up, setting a brand-new standard for luxury spa care. Guests can also stack their Chamber session with our signature spa treatments, creating a fully customized wellness journey that pairs the restorative benefits of this innovative technology with the personalized rituals and treatments our Spa is known for. We are proud to be the only destination in the region to offer this level of immersive wellness.”

Between the rooftop views, the Greek dishes at Azure, and the new spa experience, The Tampa EDITION is worth a visit this season. I’ll be back in the future for that burger.

About me: Hello my name is Carlos Hernandez and I am a writer and journalist with over 15 years of experience. I write the food and travel blog Carlos Eats (https://www.carloseats.com) and also contribute to several newspapers and magazines on numerous topics.

“This new menu is a direct reflection of what our guests told us they wanted,” said Stephen Judge, CEO of wagamama USA. “We’ve expanded opportunities to customize, created exciting new flavor experiences and introduced a new beverage program that’s as bold and unexpected as our food.”

New dishes include Salt + Pepper Calamari, Korean BBQ Meatballs, Roti Canai and Korean BBQ Wings. The menu also adds three new categories: Bao Bun Tacos, filled with Fire Pork Belly, Short Rib or Thai Chili Shrimp; Wagyumama Sliders, offered in Korean Fire, Wagamama BBQ, Backyard and Teriyaki flavors; and crispy Togarashi French Fries.

The new drink list features the Lychee + Blood Orange Sangria, Shichimi Old Fashioned, Pretty Little Pour and Dark Honey and Punch Drunk, along with new Wagaritas and Wagatinis, including an Ube Espresso Martini and a Lychee Martini. Several non-alcoholic options round out the beverage menu.

The new menu is available now at wagamama, 1050 Water St., Tampa. The restaurant is open 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Reservations, private dining and the full menu are available at wagamama.us/menu. Call (813) 429-9242 for more information.

About me: Hello my name is Carlos Hernandez and I am a writer and journalist with over 15 years of experience. I write the food and travel blog Carlos Eats (https://www.carloseats.com) and also contribute to several newspapers and magazines on numerous topics.

After navigating the parking situation that is downtown Tampa during cruise travel ($47 daily parking anyone?) and Tampa Bay Comic-Con I made my way to the pop-up. The sleek and modern design of Ash Tampa actually feels like it could be a modern diner during the earlier hours of the day. I think the fact that Proper House Group is hosting the pop-up inside is a smart business move, especially as someone who previously rented in the area and found it hard to find true quality coffee in one of Tampa’s most upcoming luxury neighborhoods.

From the moment I entered, I was greeted by a host who offered to either take my order to-go or give me a menu before I sat down in the restaurant. The baristas at the bar were friendly and personable and gave background on the coffee without being prompted. The vibe is chill for a neighborhood that often feels unrelaxed.

Of course, I immediately reached for their version of an espresso tonic, which is what I do everywhere and it did not disappoint. They use a limeade mix that surprisingly is not too tart and captured the espresso pour really well, while also feeling like a house-made creation. The plating and glassware here also make a difference.

Offering food is also a smart move by the team and there are a number of sando options on the menu. This isn’t the Japanese-style that I first thought of, but more a cross between hearty diner eats and an upgraded idea of what a breakfast sandwich looks like. The crispy tots are honestly the move though no matter whether you find yourself hungry or not. These are some of the best tater tots I have ever had, I would even say they rival the tots over at Mighty Fine Burger on the other side of downtown which are a long-time fave.

It wouldn’t be a great coffee piece if I didn’t order a pour over (and honestly, I woke up early this morning and needed more caffeine). The Pink Bourbon from Quindio, Colombia is probably the best pour over I have enjoyed in Tampa. It has complex flavors and depth. I’m glad I ordered more.

About me: Hello my name is Carlos Hernandez and I am a writer and journalist with over 15 years of experience. I write the food and travel blog Carlos Eats (https://www.carloseats.com) and also contribute to several newspapers and magazines on numerous topics.

• Reyes Mezcaleria’s Magical Dining menu is $40 per person and includes a choice of appetizer, entrée, and dessert.
• Reyes Mezcaleria is located at 821 N Orange Ave in the North Quarter District of Downtown Orlando.
• The menu’s standout entrée is the Lamb Birria, made with slow-cooked lamb shank, consommé, and Oaxacan corn tortillas.
• Reservations are recommended and can be made on OpenTable, since walk-ins may be limited to bar or patio seating.

ORLANDO, FL – Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining is now underway, running through September, with over 188 restaurants offering prix-fixe menus at different price tiers. I stopped by Reyes Mezcaleria, featuring a menu from Good Salt Hospitality and award-winning Chef Wendy Lopez, to try their $40 prix-fixe menu this weekend.

Quick note before you go: I didn’t have a reservation, so I sat at the bar and was well taken care of by the bar staff. The only other option during my visit patio seating, so if you want a table inside, book ahead.

According to the restaurant, the team’s mission is to honor the cuisine, spirits, and culture of Mexico through thoughtfully prepared dishes made with the finest ingredients possible. The Magical Dining menu at Reyes has several main course options, including their popular Lamb Birria, Trout Veracruz, and Enchiladas Verdes, plus a choice of appetizers and desserts.

For a starter, I had the ceviche and upgraded it to mixto for $5, which adds shrimp and octopus. They’re generous with the portion, and it’s definitely a great shareable appetizer. The sauce hits with a punch of acid and savoriness that lingers.

The Lamb Birria features slow-cooked lamb shank served with consommé, cilantro, red onion, and Oaxacan corn tortillas. This isn’t the birria most people are used to, since a lot of places in Florida don’t offer authentic birria and tend to skip the lamb altogether, going with a fattier beef mixture instead. This version has a savory flavor, almost like a deliciously seasoned stew, and the lamb falls right off the bone, which makes it perfect for building your own tacos. I personally enjoyed it and recommend it.

For dessert, I had the Guera Cake, layers of flan and tres leches intermixed with each other. It was delicious and not too sweet, but honestly, I’d recommend the churros instead which are some of the best I’ve had in Florida.

One upgrade I’d love to see: a tequila or mezcal flight paired with the three courses, especially given their list of over 150 agave spirits.

FAQ: Reyes Mezcaleria Magical Dining

How much is the Magical Dining menu at Reyes Mezcaleria?
The Magical Dining prix-fixe menu at Reyes Mezcaleria is $40 per person and includes a choice of appetizer, entrée, and dessert.

What entrées are on the Reyes Mezcaleria Magical Dining menu?
Entrée options include Lamb Birria, Trout Veracruz, and Enchiladas Verdes.

Do I need a reservation at Reyes Mezcaleria?
Reservations are recommended, especially for indoor table seating. Without one, options are typically limited to the bar or patio.

Where is Reyes Mezcaleria located?
Reyes Mezcaleria is located at 821 N Orange Ave, Orlando, FL 32801, in the North Quarter District of Downtown Orlando.

Who is the chef at Reyes Mezcaleria?
Chef Wendy Lopez, a Michoacán native, is the Executive Chef at Reyes Mezcaleria.

How long does Orlando’s Magical Dining 2026 run?
Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining 2026 runs through September, featuring a record 188 participating restaurants.

Reyes Mezcaleria
821 N Orange Ave, Orlando, FL 32801
(407) 868-9007
reyesmex.com
Make a Reservation on OpenTable

Hours:
Tuesday – Thursday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Friday – Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Monday: Closed

About me: Hello my name is Carlos Hernandez and I am a writer and journalist with over 15 years of experience. I write the food and travel blog Carlos Eats (https://www.carloseats.com) and also contribute to several newspapers and magazines on numerous topics.

North Italia is offering guests $40 lunch and brunch menus and a $50 dinner menu through Sept. 30 with plenty of options including Miami-only touches, including jalea-style calamari fritti and bomboloni inspired by pastelitos de guayaba. Since an average meal in Miami can run diners over $60 per person, this is a deal no matter which option you choose.

Guests can enjoy 14 lunch entrées, from spicy rigatoni vodka and squid ink tonnarelli to lump crab and shrimp cavatelli as well as 13 dinner entrées, including lobster mezzaluna, braised short rib marsala with black truffle risotto and grilled branzino. I wouldn’t skip their squid ink pasta (the shrimp in the pasta dish is incredible) or even the upgrade on the Prime New York steak is well-worth it. The pizzas are a good lunch option and the dough is freshly made in-house.

The cheese board leans heavily on the meat side, but I recommend their prosciutto. There is also a dedicated $40 brunch menu with short rib Tuscan hash, breakfast carbonara and pollo fritto.

Although cocktails are not included on the prix-fixe menus, I do recommend grabbing a drink and my personal favorite was their take on an espresso martini that has an Italian twist and really hit the spot. I recommend North Italia for Miami Spice or even just because you want to try something different if you haven’t been.

Finally, Miami Spice is a great opportunity to try the dessert menu at North Italia as well. I’m not normally a dessert guy, but their tiramisu was incredible and I recommend trying it! Enjoy.

The details

• Dates: Aug. 1 to Sep. 30, 2026
• Menus available: Lunch, brunch, and dinner (brunch is a separate $40 menu)
• Reservations: Recommended and available online

About me: Hello my name is Carlos Hernandez and I am a writer and journalist with over 15 years of experience. I write the food and travel blog Carlos Eats (https://www.carloseats.com) and also contribute to several newspapers and magazines on numerous topics.

Kanda Coffee

If you love specialty roasted craft coffee, Kanda Coffee is certainly for enthusiasts and also great for people watching although seating is limited to just twelve seats. You cannot go wrong with any of their coffee drinks which are freshly roasted, but also don’t skip their flan which is top tier. They sell coffee bags to take home as well which make for great souvenirs. The owner is also quite a fan of jazz and has programming at times. Kanda is located in Kanda Jinbocho, Tokyo, close to Kudanshita and Suidobashi station. 東京都千代田区神田神保町2-38-10 多幸ビル １Ｆ

Fuglen Asakusa Tokyo

I fell in love with Fuglen on my first trip back to Japan after the lifting of pandemic restrictions. It’s a neighborhood cafe that draws people from all backgrounds and offers excellent cocktails in addition to a wide-variety of coffee drinks. It really captures the community you expect from a top-tier coffee shop. Since the location is so close to Sensō-ji, it draws plenty of international customers so if you’re looking for a more low-key locals vibe this may not be the spot for you. They make an excellent tonic and have a number of espresso-based drinks. Prices are fair. 東京都台東区浅草 2-6-15

% Arabica Tokyo Azabudai Hills B1

If a slick, futuristic cafe is more your style and you’re visiting TeamLab in Azabudai Hills between Roppongi and Toranomon, add a stop at % Arabica to your itinerary before or after your visit. The inside is beautiful and the coffee is great. You’ll pay a premium, but it’s worth it in my opinion. 東京都港区虎ノ門5-9-1 麻布台ヒルズ ガーデンプラザB B1F

Tiphareth Coffee Roastery

If you are staying in Shinjuku, Tiphareth is a small local roaster that opens early in the morning and is great before heading out for the day. The owner is friendly and makes great pour over drinks. This location is a bit off the beaten path from the JR station. It is a 6 minute walk from JR Yotsuya Station. There is a good amount of seating and space if you are planning to stay awhile. 東京都新宿区四谷2-11-18 磯合ビル 1F

All Seasons Coffee Shinjuku

This coffee shop has great seasonal drinks and is located closer to Shinjuku Station. All Seasons prides itself on being  open to everyone, and you can enjoy not only coffee but also pudding and cakes. They have a robust online shop for their goods as well. It’s a 3 minutes walk from Shinjuku-Sanchome Station. 東京都新宿区新宿2-7-7 寿ビル 1F

About me: Hello my name is Carlos Hernandez and I am a writer and journalist with over 15 years of experience. I write the food and travel blog Carlos Eats (https://www.carloseats.com) and also contribute to several newspapers and magazines on numerous topics.