Fewer tourists, shorter queues at attractions, and a quieter overall vibe, as locals may be on holiday.
What to eat in Orlando in January: Seasonal delicacies
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Lechón Asado (Whole Roast Pork)
Lechón asado is mojo-marinated pork slow-roasted until the skin crisps, served in slices with pan juices. January fits because it’s still the core holiday season in Orlando’s Puerto Rican and Cuban community calendar through Three Kings Day. Order it for a long lunch and pair with rice. Available at Puerto Rican restaurants across Orlando, including Achiote Puerto Rican Restaurant.
Where to get: Achiote Restaurante Puertorriqueño
Arroz con Gandules
Arroz con gandules is Puerto Rican rice cooked with pigeon peas, sofrito, sazón, olives, and smoked ham in one pot. January is ideal because the dish stays central to holiday tables in Orlando’s Puerto Rican community through early winter gatherings. Order it alongside roast pork and ask for extra sofrito heat if offered. Available at Puerto Rican restaurants, including Made In PR Latin Cuisine.
Where to get: Cocina Latina Made In PR
Flan de Queso (Cream Cheese Flan)
Flan de queso is a baked custard of cream cheese, eggs, condensed milk, and vanilla set over caramel. January suits it because Orlando’s Latin bakeries and families keep it in rotation for post-holiday gatherings and weekend celebrations. Buy slices rather than a whole flan if you’re sampling multiple desserts. Available at Latin bakeries, including Valisa Bakery.
Where to get: Panadería Valisa
Pan con Bistec
Pan con bistec is a Cuban-American sandwich of thin marinated steak on Cuban bread with fried onions, tomato, shoestring potato sticks, and mustard. January fits because Orlando’s winter visitor wave drives higher sandwich culture at Cuban cafés and bakeries. Order it as a late breakfast or lunch and pair it with a café drink. Available at Cuban restaurants, including Estefan Kitchen Orlando at Disney Springs.
Where to get: Cocina Estefan Orlando
Butterbeer (Hot or Cold)
Butterbeer is Universal’s proprietary butterscotch cream soda with a thick foam cap, sold only inside the Wizarding World. January matters because the hot version is seasonal from October to February, and cooler nights make it the best format. Buy it early before lines build, then carry it into the land while you wait for rides. Available at The Hogshead in Hogsmeade.
Where to get: El Hogshead
