A Miami health food restaurant that has been in business since 2004 has expanded to the Orlando area on South John Young Parkway near the Orange County Convention Center. Giardino Orlando is a local-owned franchise location which has been open for just a few weeks. Longtime Miami residents have had their fill of soups, salads and wraps, now its Orlando’s turn.
Giardino sells salads, bowls, wraps and soups. Organic quinoa and gluten free options are a staple of this location which offers build-your-own entrees, pre-built menu items and catering options. As health is the focus, they openly offer their nutritional menu.
Health food on vacation
A thing to note for our readers, this new location is just about 1 mile away from the new Universal Epic Universe theme park. When on a week-long vacation, you enjoy delicious burgers, pizzas and themed desserts. But after a few days, all you want is a salad or a something healthy. This location offers that with pick-up, dine in, meal delivery and pre-packed family meal options.
I was invited out to try some of their items. It was my first visit to a Giardino. I tried the $11 Baja wrap (my favorite), the $16 Caesar salad with Chicken and the $15.50 My Big Fat Greek Bowl with Organic Quinoa. All the items were fresh prepared, with the store being setup like a Chipotle where you can follow down the line to choose proteins and toppings.
As with any quick service location these days, you hope for a meal under $10 and you rarely find it. Giardino is no exception, with most entrees priced $11-16. For the organic food items, fresh greens and allergy friendly options, it is of course a step-above your standard fast food restaurant. But, don’t we all wish for the days of the original Dollar Menu.
Locally owned and down the street from International Drive
This Giardino is a small business franchise (a win for the little guy), so I am happy to share that info. It is also located within a few minutes drive of some of Orlando’s major attractions like Universal Epic Universe, International Drive and Fun Spot Orlando. No they don’t sell a viral Dubai Chocolate Labubu Matcha Latte, but they do sell a wide array of healthy and allergy friendly options.
So, if you are a local or a vacationer in the area, and you just want a good, green-based meal, this Giardino may be the spot for you. If you want to learn more, head to their website.
