From Tacos to Donuts: Orlando’s Foodie Favorites Shine at Kia Center

The Orlando Table program at Kia Center offers a unique opportunity for local restaurants to expand their reach and share their culinary creations with a larger audience. Launched in 2021, this collaborative effort between Levy Restaurants and Orlando Venues — the government agency that manages Kia Center and other venues — has provided a platform for 21 Orlando-area businesses to date. The program aims to highlight the city's diverse and vibrant food scene by featuring a carefully curated selection of restaurants that represent Orlando's foodie culture and distinct flavors.

One of the program's key strengths is its focus on showcasing local favorites. Gringos Locos, a popular taco spot known for its freshly made ingredients, has been a staple at Kia Center since 2010. The program has continued to evolve and expand, adding new vendors each season to keep the offerings fresh and exciting.

For participating restaurants, the benefits of joining Orlando Table are significant. With Kia Center attracting approximately 1.4 million visitors annually, vendors gain exposure to a vast and diverse customer base. This exposure can be especially valuable for newer businesses like Nauti Lobstah, whose co-owner Cara Rumplik described the program as akin to having a "second restaurant". The program provides a unique opportunity to tap into a market that might not typically frequent their brick-and-mortar locations.

The program thrives thanks to a winning combination of smart strategy and teamwork. Eye-catching "Certified Local" icons and signage guide guests straight to participating vendors, making it effortless to support local favorites. Levy Restaurants takes the reins behind the scenes, helping vendors craft crowd-pleasing menus that are both profitable and practical. Plus, they keep a finger on the pulse of fan cravings and trends all season long, fine-tuning the offerings to keep Kia Center patrons coming back for more.

Orlando Table is more than just a food program; it's a celebration of community. It fosters a connection between local businesses and the city's residents and visitors. By bringing the "best of Orlando together under one roof," the program creates a unique and memorable dining experience that showcases the city's culinary talent. Guests can enjoy a taste of Orlando's diverse flavors, from handcrafted ice cream and modern Mexican cuisine to refreshing Italian ice and custom-made donuts, all while supporting local businesses.

The program's continued growth is a testament to positive feedback from both participating restaurants and Kia Center guests. Orlando Table has become an integral part of the arena experience, offering a taste of the city's vibrant food scene and supporting the local economy.