Ask anyone where to go in Orlando and undoubtedly Otto's High Dive, a MICHELIN Bib Gourmand, will lead that list. From locals to award-winning chefs, it's a perennial favorite, and the man behind the magic is Justin Levaughn. Levaughn, who won the MICHELIN Guide Award for Exceptional Cocktails at the 2024 Florida MICHELIN Guide Ceremony, worked his way up from dishwasher and busser to his current role at Otto's High Dive where he oversees one of the buzziest spots in town.
And, since so many pick Otto's as their go-to spot, we asked Justin for his favorite spots around town. Below, you'll find his picks for everything from a great cup of coffee to lazy afternoons in the sun with a pile of peel n eat seafood.
What is your go-to coffee spot?
Easy Luck coffee in the Milk District continues to put out some of the best coffee in town from a small unsuspecting venue in our neighborhood. These guys have made a noticeable impact in our coffee scene.
Where are your favorite spots for breakfast and lunch?
For breakfast, Deli Desires. It's a reimagined Jewish deli with phenomenal bialys and cocktail-inspired takes on their coffee.
For lunch, Zaru. Its consistently the most flavorful udon. The attention to detail these guys put into their dishes...and the service and ambience is 10/10 every time. And this goes for all the businesses they operate.
Where do you recommend for a special night out?
Sorekara. Might be one of the best dining experiences I’ve ever had.
Where do you go to unwind after work?
Sunroom. An industry driven, high volume cocktail bar that manages to pump out some of the best cocktails this city has to offer.
What are your favorite everyday spots for dinner?
Kaya - Now that they have a la carte, I love to visit as much as I can.
Strand - A rotating menu at a family-run, chef-driven spot that hits every time.
Pho Huong Lan - Hanoi style Bun Bo Hue famous for their short rib
Where would you take an out-of-towner?
For an airboat ride and a stiff pour of whiskey from a barefoot bartender at the Lone Cabbage, followed by a perfectly cooked ribeye at Linda's La Cantina.
Is there a particular spot, outside of the restaurant scene, that feels special to you?
King's Landing. It’s a spring-fed river we take our kayaks out on regularly that looks like something out of Jurassic Park. Crystal-clear, sapphire blue water, teeming with wildlife, and open lagoons with some great tree jumping. It’s something you can only find in Florida, and one of the reasons this state has been so close to my heart ever since I was a child.Where would we find you on your day off?
On the river, at one of our many springs, or at the beach. Never too far from somewhere with good peel n eats!Address Book
Easy Luck Coffee
2425 E South St, Orlando, FL 32803
Deli Desires
715 N Fern Creek Ave Suite B, Orlando, FL 32803
King's Landing
5722 Baptist Camp Rd, Apopka, FL 32712
Linda's La Cantina
4721 E Colonial Dr, Orlando, FL 32803
Lone Cabbage
8199 W King St, Cocoa, FL 32926
Pho Huong Lan
1216 E Colonial Dr Suite 7, Orlando, FL 32803
Sunroom
1319 N Mills Ave, Orlando, FL 32803
Hero image: Otto's High Dive / Justin Levaughn
