Planning the perfect weekend dinner can feel overwhelming in a city as food-rich and culturally diverse as Orlando. Fortunately, Orlando’s Colombian dining scene makes the choice easy, offering bold flavors, soulful comfort food, and warm hospitality that transform any evening into something special. Whether you’re in the mood for grilled meats, fresh arepas, hearty rice plates, or indulgent desserts, Colombian cuisine brings together everything you need for a memorable evening out.
From family-friendly eateries to lively café-style spots, these restaurants deliver authentic tastes that make weekend dining feel both relaxing and exciting. With fresh ingredients, handcrafted dishes, and inviting ambience, these Dinner Places promise a flavorful and satisfying experience for families, couples, and groups alike.
This guide highlights the top 5 Colombian restaurants in Orlando, all perfect for creating unforgettable weekend dinner plans.
1. Mecatos Bakery & Cafe – Waterford Lakes
When it comes to Dinner Places, Mecatos Bakery & Cafe Waterford Lakes immediately stands out as one of the city’s most comforting and flavorful choices. Although Mecatos is celebrated for its morning and midday offerings, its Waterford Lakes location transforms into a wonderfully cozy evening spot, perfect for weekend dinners filled with warmth, authenticity, and delicious Colombian dishes.
As one of Orlando’s must-visit Dinner Places, Mecatos blends the charm of a modern café with traditional Colombian culinary roots, giving diners both comfort and quality under one roof. From the welcoming atmosphere to the rich aromas of fresh pastries and grilled arepas, every visit feels like stepping into a warm, familiar kitchen at the end of a long day.
Location Benefits
Situated in the bustling Waterford Lakes Town Center, Mecatos offers convenience, easy parking, and an energetic environment with shops, entertainment, and family-friendly amenities. Its location naturally fits into weekend plans, whether you’re out shopping, strolling with loved ones, or simply looking for a relaxed evening meal that doesn’t compromise on quality.
Specialties
Mecatos is known for its authentic Colombian baked goods, handcrafted beverages, and richly flavored café-style dishes. Every item reflects Colombia’s culinary traditions, crafted with fresh ingredients and the comfort of home-cooked flavor.
Atmosphere
The Waterford Lakes café creates a warm, cozy ambience perfect for winding down after a busy week. Soft lighting, welcoming staff, and relaxed seating make it great for families, couples, or groups seeking a dinner spot where comfort, quality, and culture blend perfectly.
Dinner Options at Mecatos Waterford Lakes
Whether you’re looking for something light or deeply satisfying, Mecatos offers a balanced dinner menu with bold Colombian flavors:
- Arepas – Warm, freshly grilled, soft inside and slightly crisp outside, available with a variety of flavorful fillings.
- Empanadas – Crispy, golden, and filled with seasoned meat or chicken. A classic Colombian favorite and a must-try dinner appetizer.
- Tropical Salad – Fresh, colorful, and refreshing for those who prefer a lighter evening meal.
- Mecatos Salad – A wholesome blend of greens, proteins, and Colombian flavors for a filling but balanced dinner.
- Mallorca Sandwich – Soft, sweet Mallorca bread paired with savory meats—a delightful mix of textures and flavors.
- Colombian Burger – Juicy, bold, and layered with signature Colombian toppings for a satisfying dinner treat.
Desserts
End your evening with one of Mecatos’ beloved sweet creations:
- Roscon de Guava
- Tres Leches
- Tiramisu
Each dessert delivers the perfect comforting finish to your weekend dinner.
Mecatos Across Orlando
Across all its locations, Mecatos Bakery & Cafe is committed to delivering fresh ingredients, authentic Colombian recipes, and heartfelt hospitality. The brand has earned deep loyalty within both the Latino community and the broader Orlando population, thanks to its consistency, quality, and ability to blend modern café culture with Colombian tradition.
In addition to Waterford Lakes, you can enjoy Mecatos at:
- Lake Underhill
- Curry Ford West
- Apopka
- Hoffner
- MetroWest
With multiple locations throughout Orlando, finding a Mecatos near you is easy, ensuring you always have access to authentic Colombian comfort food any day of the week.
2. Arepa & Co. Colombian Comfort Food
Another standout dinner option in Orlando is Arepa & Co., a restaurant dedicated to serving authentic Colombian comfort dishes. Their menu highlights traditional arepas, rice plates, perfectly seasoned meats, plantains, and flavorful stews. The restaurant provides a warm, homestyle environment ideal for relaxed evening meals. Their grilled steak arepas, bandeja-style platters, and refreshing juices are favorites among locals. With attentive staff and generous portions, it’s a wonderful place for satisfying a hearty Colombian dinner craving.
3. Super Arepa Orlando
Super Arepa is well-known for its diverse selection of traditional and innovative arepas that bring Colombian street-food flair to Orlando. Their weekend dinner menu features meats, seafood options, sides like yuca fries, empanadas, and homemade sauces that elevate each bite. The casual atmosphere makes it great for families and groups. Super Arepa is also appreciated for its fast service and flavorful dishes, especially their grilled chicken arepa, chorizo platter, and signature maize-based creations.
4. Mi Tierra Restaurant
A long-standing classic, Mi Tierra Restaurant offers a welcoming setting with traditional Colombian dishes that feel like home. Their weekend dinner crowd enjoys items such as bandeja paisa, sancocho, grilled meats, and generous rice-and-bean plates. The restaurant prides itself on warm service, rich flavors, and a friendly, family-oriented atmosphere. If you’re craving a hearty, traditional Colombian dinner, Mi Tierra offers a reliably delicious experience.
5. Pio Pio Restaurant Orlando
Pio Pio brings a fusion of Colombian and Latin flavors with an upscale yet relaxed atmosphere perfect for weekend dinners. Their rotisserie chicken is famous citywide tender, juicy, and marinated with bold spices. Popular dinner options include arroz con pollo, churrasco, ceviche, fried calamari, and creamy flan for dessert. Pio Pio is a wonderful option for those wanting a slightly more refined dinner without losing the comfort and authenticity of Colombian cuisine.
Conclusion: Discover the Heart of Colombian Flavor in Orlando
Orlando’s vibrant food scene comes alive through its incredible Colombian restaurants, each one serving not just meals, but memories. Whether it’s the comforting warmth of freshly grilled arepas at Mecatos, the soulful homestyle plates at Mi Tierra, the bold street-food energy of Super Arepa, or the refined yet heartfelt dishes at Pio Pio, every restaurant brings the spirit of Colombia straight to your weekend table.
These spots don’t just satisfy hunger; they create experiences. The aromas, the flavors, the friendly hospitality, the lively atmosphere… all come together to turn a simple dinner into something genuinely special. If you’re looking to make your weekend plans unforgettable, these top Colombian restaurants in Orlando promise passion, authenticity, and plates full of tradition. Your perfect Colombian dinner isn’t just out there: it’s waiting for you.
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