Recurrently recognized as semi-finalists by the James Beard Foundation for "Best Chef-South,” husband-and-wife duo James and Julie Petrakis debuted The Ravenous Pig in 2007, and since that time the couple plus their growing cadre of concepts have been synonymous with Orlando’s evolving culinary scene. Both...raised in Winter Park, but serendipitously meeting in culinary school at CIA before deciding to return home, it is inside 565 West Fairbanks Avenue that guests are greeted by gracious hosts and educated servers, the kitchen on full display from the dining area while an on-site brewery quietly works in the bar area. Self-described as a Gastropub, the cookbook subtitled “Seasons of Florida” apt for a menu prone to frequent change, it was once settled at a window-side table that beverages were poured, Beers and Cocktails each pairing nicely with vibrant Cheddar Biscuits and umami-bomb Beignets plus tender, juicy Wings topped in pungent Blue Cheese. Indulging next in the Petrakis’ Tapas Board, Hummus with stewed Lamb far more memorable than either Octopus or Olives, fans of Shrimp and Grits will discover this version to be a game changer thanks to its depth and complexity while Foie Gras Terrine served with Cream, Apples and Toast could just as easily be part of the Dessert menu. Intrigued by seasonal Vegetables, a clever riff on Mexican Street Corn seeing Alabama White Sauce stand-in for Mayo, Vegetarians and omnivores alike are prone to be thrilled by BBQ Cauliflower with cooling Yogurt while handmade Pasta was seasonally special thanks to Venison, Chestnuts and Squash. Ordering another round with Dessert, Beer for some and Coffee for others, Pigtails take a clever twist on Churros with remarkable lightness, but dollar-for-dollar the better bet is either The Ravenous Pig’s decadent Chocolate Tart or nearly-molten Bread Pudding that ended 2020 balancing Eggnog Ice Cream with Cranberry Compote.More
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