Orlando's Best Shrimp and Grits [Updated 2024]

Over the years, I have sampled countless plates of this classic Southern dish, meticulously analyzing each one for flavor, texture, and presentation. From humble mom-and-pop diners to upscale seafood joints, I have explored every nook and cranny of Orlando's culinary scene in search of the perfect shrimp and grits.

In this article, I will share my top picks based on my extensive research, taste-testing a total of 15 different restaurants. Whether you prefer your grits creamy or cheesy, and your shrimp spicy or succulent, I guarantee there is a place in Orlando that will satisfy your cravings.

So, get ready to embark on a mouth-watering journey through the best shrimp and grits the city has to offer.

Peach Valley Cafe

Highlights
Superb breakfast
Fresh apple fritters
Excellent teamwork
Remarkable flavors
Delightful meal

Let me start by saying that Peach Valley Cafe has undoubtedly earned a spot on the list of the best shrimp and grits establishments in Orlando.

The moment I stepped into this cozy café, I was greeted with a warm smile by the attentive staff. The teamwork displayed by the restaurant was truly excellent, as everyone worked together seamlessly to create a delightful dining experience.

Of course, the main reason I visited was to sample their shrimp and grits, and I must say, they did not disappoint. The shrimp were perfectly cooked to tender perfection, with a slight snap as you bite into them. The grits had a creamy texture and were bursting with remarkable flavors that perfectly complemented the shrimp.

But the culinary adventure did not end there. As I waited for my shrimp and grits, I couldn't resist indulging in their fresh apple fritters. Each bite was a heavenly combination of crispy edges and soft, cinnamon-spiced centers. It was the ideal sweet treat to start off a superb breakfast.

In conclusion, Peach Valley Cafe has managed to create a truly remarkable dish of shrimp and grits. The combination of excellent teamwork, remarkable flavors, and delightful meal made my visit a truly memorable one. If you're in Orlando and searching for the best shrimp and grits, this charming café should be at the top of your list.

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Nikki's Place

Highlights
Fantastic soul food
Amazing side dishes
Exemplary customer service
Best shrimp and grits
Welcoming and pleasant staff

Let me start by saying that Nikki's Place is truly a hidden gem when it comes to soul food in Orlando. From the moment I stepped foot inside, I knew I was in for a treat.

The first thing that caught my attention was the amazing aroma that filled the air. It was a perfect blend of spices and hearty flavors. As I perused the menu, I was delighted to see an array of mouthwatering options.

Of course, I couldn't resist ordering their shrimp and grits. And let me tell you, it was divine. The shrimp were succulent and perfectly seasoned, nestled atop a bed of creamy grits that melted in my mouth. Every bite was a burst of flavors that left me craving for more.

What truly set Nikki's Place apart was their exemplary customer service. The staff went out of their way to ensure that I had a delightful dining experience. They were welcoming, pleasant, and made me feel right at home.

To accompany my shrimp and grits, I ordered their amazing side dishes. The collard greens were cooked to perfection, with just the right amount of smokiness. And the mac and cheese, oh my, it was a cheesy delight that I couldn't resist.

In conclusion, if you're on the hunt for the best shrimp and grits in Orlando, your search ends at Nikki's Place. With their fantastic soul food, amazing side dishes, and welcoming staff, it's a culinary experience that should not be missed. So go ahead, indulge your taste buds and let Nikki's Place treat you to a delectable dining adventure.

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The Boheme

Highlights
Beautiful building
Wonderful ambience
Friendly and efficient service
Unlimited food and drinks
Great live music

The first thing that struck me about The Boheme was its beautiful building. Nestled in the heart of downtown Orlando, the restaurant exudes elegance and charm. As I stepped inside, I was immediately captivated by the wonderful ambience - a perfect blend of sophisticated and cozy.

The service at The Boheme was impeccable. The staff was not only friendly, but also efficient, ensuring that our every need was met. Our server was knowledgeable about the menu and gave excellent recommendations.

Now, let's talk about the main event - the shrimp and grits. The Boheme didn't disappoint. The dish offered a delightful dance of flavors that elevated traditional southern comfort food to new heights. The shrimp were succulent and perfectly cooked, while the grits were creamy with just the right amount of texture.

What truly set The Boheme apart from other shrimp and grits spots in Orlando was their unlimited food and drinks concept. We were able to savor the delicious dish to our heart's content, which is a rarity in most restaurants.

As we enjoyed our meal, a great live music performance added to the overall experience, creating a lively and enjoyable atmosphere.

In conclusion, if you're searching for the best shrimp and grits in Orlando, look no further than The Boheme. With its beautiful building, wonderful ambience, friendly and efficient service, unlimited food and drinks, and great live music, this restaurant is a must-visit for any shrimp and grits enthusiast.

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Another Broken Egg Cafe

Highlights
Flavorful breakfast
Pumpkin spiced cold brew
Gluten-free bourbon street pancakes
Delicious coffee
Outstanding and clean place

Another Broken Egg Cafe in Orlando is a delightful spot that offers a flavorful and satisfying breakfast experience. As a shrimp and grits enthusiast, I was thrilled to see this classic Southern dish on their menu.

The first thing that caught my attention was the array of unique and enticing options. But what truly stood out was the fusion of flavors in their shrimp and grits. The combination of perfectly cooked shrimp and creamy grits was truly remarkable. The shrimp were plump and succulent, adding a burst of freshness to the dish.

To complement my meal, I opted for their pumpkin spiced cold brew, which was a delightful twist on a classic coffee beverage. It added a seasonal touch and perfectly balanced the richness of the shrimp and grits.

For those with dietary restrictions, Another Broken Egg Cafe also offers gluten-free bourbon street pancakes. These fluffy and decadent pancakes were a fantastic alternative for those seeking a gluten-free option without compromising on taste.

Beyond the food, I was impressed by the quality of the coffee at Another Broken Egg Cafe. The delicious coffee enhanced the overall dining experience, leaving me thoroughly satisfied.

The cafe itself boasted a clean and inviting atmosphere, with outstanding service that added to the overall appeal. The staff were friendly and attentive, ensuring that my dining experience was nothing short of exceptional.

In conclusion, Another Broken Egg Cafe in Orlando is a standout when it comes to shrimp and grits. Their inventive flavors, gluten-free options, and delightful coffee make for an unforgettable dining experience. If you're searching for the best shrimp and grits in Orlando, this charming and inviting cafe is a must-visit.

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Artisan's Table

Highlights
Fantastic craft cocktail suggestions
Top-notch service throughout the meal
House-infused espresso tequila
Trendy and inviting atmosphere
Delicious food and brunch menu

Let me start by saying that Artisan's Table truly lives up to its name. The combination of a trendy and inviting atmosphere, top-notch service, and delicious food made for a memorable dining experience.

As soon as I stepped foot into the restaurant, I was greeted with a warm welcome from the staff. Their attentiveness and knowledge about the menu were impressive, providing me with fantastic craft cocktail suggestions that perfectly complemented the meal.

Speaking of the menu, Artisan's Table boasts a diverse array of options, but my focus was on their shrimp and grits. Let me tell you, it did not disappoint. The creamy grits were cooked to perfection, providing a smooth and flavorful base for the plump and succulent shrimp.

To elevate the dish further, I ordered a side of their house-infused espresso tequila. The combination of the smoky flavors from the tequila and the hint of bitterness from the espresso created a delightful contrast that enhanced the overall dining experience.

I must also mention that Artisan's Table offers an incredible brunch menu that includes their signature shrimp and grits. It's the perfect spot to start your weekend with a delicious and satisfying meal.

In conclusion, if you're looking for the best shrimp and grits in Orlando, Artisan's Table should be at the top of your list. With its fantastic craft cocktail suggestions, top-notch service, and a menu that includes the mouthwatering shrimp and grits, this restaurant truly deserves its place in the spotlight.

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Soco Restaurant

Highlights
Prompt seating
Attentive waiter
Warm ambience
Delicious entrees
Scratch-made food

Let me start by saying that Soco Restaurant truly knows how to make a shrimp and grits lover like myself feel right at home. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with a smile and promptly seated, which is always a positive sign.

My waiter, who was quite the charming individual, was attentive to both my needs and my shrimp and grits cravings. He took the time to explain the different variations of this beloved southern dish on their menu, which made my decision-making process even more enjoyable.

The moment my plate arrived, my taste buds were transported to a world of pure delight. The shrimp were plump and perfectly seasoned, while the grits were creamy and had just the right texture. It was evident that the food at Soco Restaurant is made with love and care, as the flavors were absolutely divine.

The warm ambience of the restaurant added a touch of rustic elegance to my dining experience. The cozy atmosphere, complete with dimmed lighting and tasteful decorations, made me feel like I was savoring my shrimp and grits in a hidden gem of the South.

What truly sets Soco Restaurant apart from the rest is their commitment to serving scratch-made food. Every bite of the shrimp and grits reminded me of how dedicated they are to creating a memorable dining experience.

In conclusion, if you find yourself in Orlando craving a plate of shrimp and grits that will leave you wanting more, look no further than Soco Restaurant. Their prompt seating, attentive waitstaff, warm ambience, and most importantly, their delicious entrees will undoubtedly make your taste buds sing.

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White Wolf Cafe

Highlights
Hidden gem
Amazing food
Excellent service
Retro-classic atmosphere
Delicious biscuits

Let me start by saying that White Wolf Cafe is truly a hidden gem in Orlando. Tucked away in a charming neighborhood, this restaurant offers a delightful combination of amazing food and excellent service.

Walking into White Wolf Cafe feels like stepping into a retro-classic time capsule. The atmosphere is whimsical and reminiscent of an old diner, with vintage decor and cozy seating. The friendly staff decked out in retro-inspired attire adds to the quirky charm of the place.

Now, let's get to the star of the show - the shrimp and grits. Oh my, where do I even begin? These shrimp and grits are a flavor explosion! The grits have the perfect creamy texture, and the shrimp are juicy and perfectly cooked. The seasoning is just right, with a delicate balance of spices that enhance the natural flavors of the dish.

But let me tell you, the experience at White Wolf Cafe doesn't end with the shrimp and grits. The biscuits they serve are to die for. Warm, flaky, and buttery, they are the perfect accompaniment to the main dish.

All in all, my visit to White Wolf Cafe was a delightful adventure into the world of shrimp and grits. From the delicious food to the friendly and attentive service, this place is definitely a must-visit for any shrimp and grits enthusiast.

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Hash House A Go Go

Highlights
Delicious food
Phenomenal service
Fun atmosphere
Large portioned meals

Hash House A Go Go is hands down the place to be for a shrimp and grits lover in Orlando. As I entered the restaurant, the fun and vibrant atmosphere instantly caught my attention. The staff were incredibly welcoming and their phenomenal service added a special touch to my dining experience.

But let's get down to what really matters: the food. The shrimp and grits at Hash House A Go Go were beyond compare. The dish was a delightful blend of flavors, with perfectly cooked shrimp that were tender and juicy. The grits were creamy and rich, with just the right amount of seasoning.

One thing that truly sets Hash House A Go Go apart is the portion size. These folks believe in serving meals that are fit for giants. I was amazed by the amount of food on my plate - it was enough to satisfy the hungriest of appetites. I left the restaurant feeling not only satisfied but also impressed by how they value their customers' satisfaction by providing such large portioned meals.

Overall, my visit to Hash House A Go Go was a delightful experience. From the delicious food to the phenomenal service, this place has it all. If you're in Orlando and on the hunt for the best shrimp and grits, don't miss out on the opportunity to indulge in the delightful offerings at Hash House A Go Go.

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The Licking Orlando

Highlights
Good flavors
Turkey instead of pork
Perfect chicken wings
Refreshing mystery drink
Great portions

Upon entering The Licking Orlando, I was greeted with a warm and inviting atmosphere. The staff was friendly and knowledgeable, adding to the overall positive experience. As I perused the menu, my eyes were immediately drawn to their shrimp and grits offering. Little did I know, I was about to embark on a flavor journey like no other.

The shrimp and grits at The Licking Orlando exceeded all expectations. The flavors were nothing short of extraordinary. The combination of the luscious shrimp and the creamy, perfectly cooked grits created a harmonious relationship on my palate. But what truly set The Licking Orlando apart was their unique twist on the traditional dish – they used turkey instead of pork. This unexpected swap proved to be a stroke of genius, adding a depth of flavor that elevated the entire dish.

As I savored every bite of the shrimp and grits, I couldn't help but notice the other offerings on the menu. I couldn't resist trying the perfectly cooked chicken wings. They were crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, bursting with flavor.

To complement my meal, I opted for their refreshing mystery drink. The blend of flavors was intriguing, leaving me wanting more.

Not only was the food at The Licking Orlando exceptional, but the portions were also generous. The restaurant truly understands the importance of satisfying their customers.

In conclusion, The Licking Orlando is a must-visit for shrimp and grits enthusiasts. The bold flavors, innovative use of ingredients, and delightful ambiance make this establishment a top contender for the best shrimp and grits in Orlando.

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Shakers American Café

Highlights
Amazing service
Casual atmosphere
Extensive brunch options
Friendly and excellent service
Unique decor with salt and pepper shaker sets

Let me start by saying, the service at Shakers American Café is truly amazing. From the moment I entered, the staff greeted me with warm smiles and made me feel right at home. As a writer, I appreciate the attention to detail and the friendly and excellent service provided by the staff.

The casual atmosphere is perfect for a relaxed weekend brunch. The café offers an extensive brunch menu, with a variety of options to satisfy every palate. But let's get to the star of the show – their shrimp and grits.

I must admit, I was blown away by the flavors and presentation of their shrimp and grits dish. The chef clearly understands the art of balancing richness and textures. The shrimp were cooked to perfection, succulent and flavorful, while the grits were smooth and creamy, with just the right amount of buttery goodness.

As I savored each bite, I couldn't help but admire the unique decor of Shakers American Café. The walls are adorned with an impressive collection of salt and pepper shaker sets, each one adding a touch of whimsy to the overall ambiance.

In conclusion, Shakers American Café is a must-visit for shrimp and grits enthusiasts in Orlando. With their amazing service, casual atmosphere, and a brunch menu that goes beyond expectations, this place truly deserves its spot on the list of the best shrimp and grits destinations in Orlando.

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First Watch

Highlights
Friendly staff
Delicious food
Comfortable outdoor seating
Yummy fluffy pancake

First Watch in Orlando is a true gem when it comes to shrimp and grits. From the moment I walked in, the friendly staff made me feel like a VIP. They were attentive, knowledgeable, and eager to guide me through their menu.

When it comes to food, First Watch delivers on both taste and presentation. The shrimp and grits were a delightful combination of flavors that danced on my taste buds. The perfectly seasoned shrimp were cooked to perfection, tender and succulent, while the creamy grits added a comforting and satisfying texture. This dish truly showcases the mastery of the chefs in the kitchen.

The outdoor seating at First Watch is a cozy and charming spot to enjoy your meal. As I indulged in the delicious shrimp and grits, I couldn't help but appreciate the comfortable ambiance and the gentle breeze that added to the experience.

And let's not forget about their yummy fluffy pancake. It was a delightful addition to my meal, and I couldn't resist taking a bite of it. The pancake was light, fluffy, and accompanied by a heavenly syrup that enhanced its sweetness.

Overall, First Watch in Orlando is a fantastic spot to experience the best shrimp and grits in town. With their friendly staff, delicious food, comfortable outdoor seating, and a tempting fluffy pancake, it's an absolute must-visit for any seafood lover.

The Waterfront

Highlights
Great food
Fun vibe
Beautiful views
Outstanding service
Laid-back atmosphere

Boasting an array of highlights, The Waterfront truly stands out when it comes to the search for the best shrimp and grits in Orlando. As I stepped into this culinary haven, I was immediately captivated by its laid-back atmosphere which perfectly blends elegance with a relaxed vibe.

Upon being seated, I eagerly perused the menu, my anticipation growing with each passing moment. When the plate of shrimp and grits was finally placed before me, I knew I was in for a treat. The first bite was nothing short of extraordinary — a harmonious blend of flavors dancing on my palate.

The quality of the food at The Waterfront is unrivaled. The shrimp were cooked to perfection, tender and succulent, while the grits were creamy and perfectly seasoned. Each bite left me craving more, and I savored the dish with pure delight.

What truly sets The Waterfront apart is not just its exquisite cuisine, but also its fun vibe, breathtaking views, and outstanding service. The waitstaff is attentive, knowledgeable, and eager to cater to your every whim.

For an unforgettable shrimp and grits experience that combines great food, a lively atmosphere, and jaw-dropping views, look no further than The Waterfront. Trust me, this hidden gem is a must-visit for any seafood enthusiast seeking a true culinary adventure in Orlando.

Sweet Mama's Restaurant

Highlights
Eggs Benedict
Corn beef hash
Pineapple juice
Reasonable prices
Friendly staff

Located in the heart of Orlando, Sweet Mama's Restaurant is a hidden gem when it comes to finding the best shrimp and grits in town. As soon as I walked through the doors, I was greeted by the delightful aroma of Southern comfort food and the infectious smiles of the friendly staff.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show: the shrimp and grits. Every bite was a flavor explosion that left me wanting more. The shrimp were perfectly cooked, tender, and succulent, complemented by the creamy grits that had just the right amount of buttery richness. The dish was expertly seasoned with a touch of spice, adding an extra kick to each mouthful.

I was also pleasantly surprised by the reasonable prices at Sweet Mama's. It's not often you can find such high-quality dishes at such affordable prices. Along with their famous shrimp and grits, I had the pleasure of trying their eggs Benedict and corned beef hash, and both were equally delicious.

To wash it all down, I highly recommend trying Sweet Mama's freshly squeezed pineapple juice. It's the perfect refreshing accompaniment to the rich and savory flavors of their dishes.

Overall, my experience at Sweet Mama's Restaurant was nothing short of heavenly. The combination of delectable shrimp and grits, reasonable prices, and a welcoming atmosphere made it a standout in my search for the best shrimp and grits in Orlando.

Nick's Family Diner

Highlights
Amazing service
Well-seasoned
Fresh food
Delicious cuisine
Attentive service

Let me start by saying that the service at Nick's Family Diner was nothing short of amazing. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with warm smiles and a genuine enthusiasm.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show: the shrimp and grits. The dish was well-seasoned to perfection, with a lovely balance of flavors that complemented each other. The grits were creamy and smooth, providing the perfect canvas for the succulent shrimp. It was evident that the ingredients were fresh, as every bite was bursting with freshness.

But what truly stole the show was the delicious cuisine. The shrimp were plump and juicy, cooked to perfection. They were paired with a rich and flavorful sauce that elevated the dish to a whole new level. Every bite was a culinary delight, and I found myself savoring every mouthful.

The staff at Nick's Family Diner were extremely attentive and made sure that my dining experience was nothing short of exceptional. From their helpful menu suggestions to their prompt service, I felt well taken care of throughout my visit.

In conclusion, if you're on the hunt for the best shrimp and grits in Orlando, look no further than Nick's Family Diner. The combination of amazing service, well-seasoned and fresh food, and delicious cuisine make it a must-visit spot for any shrimp and grits enthusiast. Trust me, you won't be disappointed!

Highball & Harvest

Highlights
Kid friendly
Friendly service
Delicious food

Highball & Harvest is a hidden gem for shrimp and grits lovers in Orlando. I was immediately impressed by the warm and inviting atmosphere, making it perfect for a cozy family outing. The staff was exceptionally friendly and attentive from the moment we stepped through the door. Kid-friendly was the name of the game, and they effortlessly catered to our little critters.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show – the shrimp and grits. Oh boy, did they deliver! Every bite was a texture and flavor party in my mouth, leaving me grinning from ear to ear. The shrimp were perfectly cooked, tender, and succulent, while the grits were creamy and had a hint of cheesiness that was sheer delight. The dish was elevated with a flavorful sauce that tied everything together harmoniously. It was a symphony of taste and indulgence.

What sets Highball & Harvest apart from the competition is not only their delicious food, but also their attention to detail and commitment to excellent customer service. The staff made sure we had everything we needed, and their knowledge about the dish was impressive, making our dining experience even more enjoyable.

If you're a shrimp and grits enthusiast like me, I wholeheartedly recommend heading over to Highball & Harvest in Orlando. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for it.