Saturday, January 24, 2009

Best lunch in the city

Press 101 is quickly gaining a reputation as one of the hottest concepts in Orlando dining. It specializes in Euro-style bistro food, and sandwiches and wine take center stage. By placing emphasis high quality ingredients and letting the natural flavors shine, its a breath of fresh air on restaurant row, where chefs typically rely on frying or heavy spices to impart flavor.(Not that theres anything wrong with that...)
I sat down recently manager Brian Hoening to talk about Press 101. Hoening is actually a personal friend of mine, as well as a culinary mentor. Our conversation:

Describe Press 101 in one sentence.
A sophisticated, upscale, neighborhood sandwich and wine bar.
What are your favorite dishes?
The grilled-cheese [sandwich], turkey and brie sanwich, and garlic roasted salmon salad.
Why should people choose Press 101 over the other restaurants in the area? It was voted Orlando's top outdoor dining and top power-lunch restaurant
Anything else you want people to know?
Great atmosphere, great food, and live music every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. Ask for Brian!

VERDICT: Next time you find yourself near restaurant row (the strech of Sand Lake road between Turkey Lake and Apopka Vineland) make sure you stop by for some exceptional food in a friendly (and non-touristy) atmosphere.

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