The Monroe

The Monroe fills a niche in Orlando’s Creative Village you didn’t know you needed: upscale comfort food that reminds you of your childhood treats. Try the frito pie or pastrami corn dog as an appetizer, then double down on mains like pot pie or the fried chicken thigh sandwich and desserts like the peanut butter-infused chocolate cake. The hip dining space transitions easily from daytime coffee bar, where college students study and corporate types grab lunch, to a relaxed cocktail lounge. But if the weather’s fine, as it usually is, grab a spot out on the porch or patio with murals inspired by Florida nature.