The 5 Best Falafel in Orlando (For a Flavorful Bite)

A perfect falafel is a bite of pure joy—a crispy, golden-brown exterior giving way to a warm, fluffy, and herb-infused center. The search for the best falafel in Orlando is a delicious exploration of the city’s fantastic Mediterranean and Middle Eastern restaurants. Whether served in a warm pita pocket with fresh veggies and tahini sauce or plated as part of a larger mezza platter, this iconic street food is a satisfying and flavorful vegetarian delight. This guide will lead you to the top spots in Orlando that have truly mastered the art of the perfect falafel.

Shoufi Mafi

Shoufi Mafi

🗺️ 5734 E Colonial Dr, Orlando, FL 32807

☎️ (407) 985-2205

🌐 Website

🕒 Open Hours

• Sunday – Thursday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• Friday – Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM

Highlights

• Authentic Lebanese and Syrian cuisine
• Warm, family-run atmosphere
• Excellent hot and cold mezza platters
• Falafel is a standout appetizer
• Hookah lounge available

Shoufi Mafi is a beloved local gem that offers a genuine taste of Lebanese and Syrian home cooking. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, making every guest feel like part of the family. They are renowned for their mezza—a wonderful selection of small hot and cold plates perfect for sharing—and their falafel is a cornerstone of this experience.

The falafel here is consistently praised for its perfect texture and flavor. Each ball is fried to a deep golden brown, resulting in a delightfully crunchy exterior that protects a moist, bright green, and beautifully seasoned interior. Served with a creamy tahini sauce for dipping, it’s an authentic and incredibly satisfying version of the dish. For a true taste of the Levant, Shoufi Mafi is a must-visit.

You might also want to check out the best Mediterranean restaurants in Orlando.

The Nile Ethiopian Restaurant

The Nile Ethiopian Restaurant

🗺️ 7048 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819

☎️ (407) 354-0026

🌐 Website

🕒 Open Hours

• Open Daily: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Highlights

• Authentic Ethiopian dining experience
• Communal dining with injera bread
• Excellent vegetarian and vegan options
• Located on International Drive
• Unique and flavorful appetizers

The Nile offers a unique and memorable culinary journey into the heart of Ethiopia. The dining experience is traditionally communal, with flavorful stews and dishes served atop a large platter of injera, a spongy sourdough flatbread used in place of utensils. While an Ethiopian restaurant might seem like an unexpected place to find great falafel, their version is a standout appetizer.

Their falafel is well-seasoned with a blend of spices that gives it a unique and delicious character. They are fried to be perfectly crispy on the outside while remaining tender inside. It’s a fantastic starter to enjoy before diving into the main course of rich and savory wots (stews). For those looking to explore a different flavor profile in their falafel, The Nile provides a wonderful and authentic option.

You might also want to check out the best vegan restaurants in Orlando.

Bosphorous Turkish Cuisine

Bosphorous Turkish Cuisine

🗺️ 108 S Park Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789 (plus other locations)

☎️ (407) 644-8609

🌐 Website

🕒 Open Hours (Winter Park)

• Sunday – Thursday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• Friday – Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM

Highlights

• Upscale and authentic Turkish dining
• Elegant and inviting atmosphere
• Famous Lavas (hollow bread)
• Multiple locations in premier neighborhoods
• Great for a special occasion

Bosphorous is a premier destination for Turkish food in Central Florida, with beautiful locations in Winter Park, Dr. Phillips, and Lake Nona. They offer an upscale yet comfortable dining experience perfect for a date night or family gathering. While famous for their incredible grilled kebabs and iconic puffed Lavas bread, their appetizer menu is filled with delicious treasures, including their falafel.

The falafel at Bosphorous is expertly prepared, served as crispy patties that are pan-fried until golden. They are seasoned with a delightful blend of Turkish spices and served with a yogurt-based sauce that perfectly complements the flavors. It’s a wonderful way to begin a fantastic Turkish meal. For a more refined falafel experience in an elegant setting, Bosphorous is an excellent choice.

You might also want to check out the best restaurants in Winter Park FL