Robert Burkett
Google
I recently had the pleasure of dining at The Drake Kitchen + Bar in Orlando, FL, and I must say, it truly was an experience. This cozy locale, with its strange yet charming configuration, adds to the allure of this downtown dining gem. As a global cuisine restaurant, The Drake features internationally inspired dishes that evolve with the seasons, incorporating local and regional ingredients produced with sustainable practices whenever possible.
The menu is diverse and exciting, with dishes like the signature "Duck, Duck, Goose" plate, which was a highlight of my meal. Although one of the pieces of meat came out a bit cold, the combination of duck strudel, aged duck breast, and goose foie gras was pleasant and flavorful. However, I was disappointed with the Arancini dish from the Happy Hour menu, which lacked taste and left me feeling like I was just filling up without any real flavor.
The service at The Drake was friendly, but it seemed like the servers were still getting accustomed to managing orders. As a tapas-style restaurant, dishes come out as they're prepared, rather than in traditional courses. This can be a bit challenging for larger groups, as some diners may receive their food before others. Our server was knowledgeable about the menu, but there were a few missteps, such as taking my glass with leftover beer and not returning with my new drink for when we were done eating and waitingfor the bill.
Despite these minor issues, The Drake offers a pleasant dining experience, with a great selection of cocktails and outdoor seating that allows dogs. The price range is a bit higher, at around $30-$50 per person, but the unique features and cozy ambiance make it a great spot to try. Just be aware of the tapas-style service and plan accordingly, especially if you're dining with a large group. Overall, I would recommend The Drake Kitchen + Bar for its creative dishes, charming atmosphere, and great outdoor seating area.