Top 7 Gluten-Free Cocktail Spots to Enjoy in Winter Park

Emily Logan

Gluten free fried chicken! So good

Stephan

Five of us came for dinner on a Friday without a reservation. We didn't have to wait long to get a table for ourselves. Our waitress was friendly, but a little more attentiveness on her part would have been appreciated. Unfortunately, the cocktails took a little long and only came after we asked for them. The food was really good and there was a lot of quantity. It is particularly worth mentioning that there are also many dishes for guests with allergies (gluten free). All in all, our meal was very satisfactory and we would like to come back.

Stavros Stilos

I had high hopes for AVA MediterrAegean, a Michelin-starred restaurant, but the experience fell far short of expectations. Upon arrival, the front area was chaotic—about 15 people crammed together, loud and intoxicated, with no notice that our reservation would be delayed by 20 minutes due to the restaurant running behind on schedule. Once seated, the table placement was awkward and cramped, with chairs directly in a high-traffic area. My fiancé’s MCM designer bag was knocked over twice—once by a server bumping into the table, who then gave a little chair to put it on since there were no bag holders, a second by another server bumping into that chair where they tripped and sent the bag flying to the floor. On top of that, my jacket was knocked off the back of my chair and stepped on, terrible location. Service was rushed and impersonal, with no recommendations or mention of specials. Drinks took 15 minutes to order but arrived at least arrived quickly. For appetizers, the meatballs were overly salty, though my fiancé enjoyed them, and the potatoes were bland, and I had requested olive oil twice to be brought. The entrées were disappointing: my black truffle risotto was just average, and my fiancé’s filet mignon was chewy. Despite informing the waiter about celiac disease, the saffron rice came with phyllo dough when we asked without it, and had to be remade. Dessert, a crème brûlée, was, let’s just say forgettable and nothing special. Adding insult to injury, the bill included an automatic 18% service charge for our table of two, which felt unwarranted given the mediocre service. At nearly $300 for two, I expected a refined and luxurious dining experience, not chaos and mediocre food, especially Michelin rated. Perhaps it was an off night for them on a busy Saturday evening, but Michelin stars demand consistency, and this didn’t deliver. I wouldn’t recommend or return here, and would definitely question how they even got a star for their food. There are far better places around that have made a significant impression.

Harry D

Food was incredible, there were 10 of us and everyone (vegetarians and gluten free’s included) was very happy. Amazing ramen and good price.

Kay Quint

Frank and Sam were amazing! Great gluten free menu and drinks.

Gail Pare

I went to Reel Fish after an early show at the Winter Park Play House. Since they offered a 20% discount, I figured it was worth giving it a try. I am gluten free and they had gluten free options, which is always a plus. I had the fish tacos and they were delicious. My mom had the salmon and that was also delicious. I would definitely go again.

Lauren Ziaks

This was an incredible gluten free experience. Nelson provided us with some of the best service I have experience in a while. The Italian food in general, but specifically gluten free, was authentic and amazing. We sat on the patio and felt transported. They couldn't be more accommodating. And the best was the hazelnut hot fudge sundae they made at the end. We will definitely be back!