March Local Love List: 10 Best Businesses in Orlando

1. Ette Hotel

📸: @ettehotel
Need an escape from your day to day life? Check into to ette hotel for an experience like none other. ette (earthy, true, timeless, and elegant) hotel is the perfect place to relax and unwind from the stress of the week. Something we love is that this is a wellness-focused hotel and it has a zero-alcohol property. However instead of cocktails, they have some of the most creative mocktails that you’ve ever seen! However if you are seeking a more potent libation, they have a “Secret Bring Your Own” code bottle club where you can bring in your own libation. And since this is a wellness retreat, you’re going to want to check out the spa for some relaxation and rejuvenation!

2. The Co

📸: @theco.orl
Want to breathe something new into your space? Stop by The Co. to shop handmade, vintage, groovy, and unique gifts. This woman-owned boutique on Summerlin is the perfect place when you need a little inspo for your home or a birthday gift for a friend! Plus this shop hosts fun events throughout the year like porch pop-up markets, evening sip and shops, and more!

3. The Abbey Orlando

The Abbey is the ultimate venue for concerts, performances, dance parties, and more. If you’re looking for a fun night out with friends, definitely check their event calendar. This month they’ve got candlelight tribute concerts, live bands, a disco night, and even a pop-up market of women and LGBTQ+ creatives and makers.

4. The Waterfront

📸: @thewaterfrontorlando
Looking for some great al fresco dining? Make dinner plans at The Waterfront for great views and tasty food! This lakeside resto serves up modern American comfort food, craft beers, and cocktails. Some of the gems on the menu are the seared avocado, waterfront burger, and blackened grouper bowl. This is a great place for a evening out, but an even better idea for Saturday or Sunday brunch! Go for the biscuits and gravy and add fried chicken, you’re welcome.

5. Irish 31 Pub House and Eatery

Who says it has to be St. Patrick’s Day to enjoy a little Irish fun? While their St. Patrick’s Day celebration is a great time, we’ll take any opportunity to hang out at Irish 31. Their pup-friendly patio is a great place to kick up your feet with your four legged furry friend and a pint of your choice. Order their legendary boxty—aka the best potatoes that you’ve ever had—for the table before diving into their delicious entrees.

6. Tibby's

📸: @eatattibbys
At Tibby’s every day feels like Mardi Gras! Enjoy a little slice of New Orleans right here in central Florida. Dig into their take on Cajun classics like the boudin spring rolls, gator bites, shrimp creole, gumbo, and more! And of course we can’t forget about the beignets!

7. Earth Illuminated

📸: @earthilluminated
Experience life in a new light. Step into a world of unique lights and sounds at Earth Illuminated. This walkthrough experience features over 40 unique scenes. You’ll definitely want to bring your camera because this place will definitely help you up your insta game.

8. Agave Azul Cocina

📸: @agaveazulcocinamex
Get ready for authentic Mexican like you’ve never had before. This family owned and operated resto is serving up classic dishes that you know and love like burritos, chimichangas, and tacos! We’re big fans of the chile rellenos and the guajillo citrus chicken tacos. And of course no meal is complete without a marg to wash everything down. Opt for their La Frozen that’s full of delicious tropical fruits.

9. Kitty O'Shea's Irish Pub

📸: Kitty O’Shea’s

This is the ultimate hangout spot. Round up the squad and get ready for a night of fun. Kitty O’Shea’s is the go to spot in Orlando to catch a soccer match, belt your heart out, and grab a pint. And you know they’re always running killer drink specials.

10. Nora's Sugar Shack

Looking for a one stop shop? Head over to Nora’s Sugar Shack. This place has it all. Stock up on local brews, vinos, and cigars. Drink your bev of choice on the patio or pack it all up to take home. This is a hidden gem of a package store that you definitely want to check out!