It may seem counter-intuitive to feature a chain restaurant in a series on small businesses. However, in this case, it’s one of two franchises in Orlando, and they function independently of the larger corporation in terms of the bottom line. It may also seem odd to call it a restaurant, but since they serve a full menu, and it’s pretty hard to beat in terms of quality and price, it’s worth a visit even if you don’t like craft beer.
If you do, this is obviously a good option with most bars still closed. Their selection is starting to recover as business is picking back up, but they always have my go-to (Bell’s Two Hearted) on tap for happy hour prices. They open at 3 everyday, which is conveniently when happy hour starts.
Given health concerns, the outdoor patio that is tucked away from the larger shopping center will come in clutch. While it is already summer here in Florida, the patio can be manageable later in the evening when the breeze starts to pick up, not only cooling you off, but ensuring anyone nearby shedding coronavirus is less of a threat. And since the CDC has clarified that the virus doesn’t spread easily on surfaces, the air is your only real concern. But, given the low number of cases in our neck of the woods, (that were not fabricated or changed mind you) you would be hard pressed to run into an actual person carrying the virus.
As usual, I should disclose material connection and note that I’ve been a regular here for years. So much so that I befriended all the staff and convinced the last manager to hire my wife when she needed a side hustle. She ended up being the manager herself when a new owner bought the bar, and later that summer I ran the social media for the place. By posting about this I might have earned a free draft when I’m there this afternoon with my mug (we’ll see).
Even if not, any day you’re in, you should definitely tip your bartender well and tell them Nate sent you. Stop in on a Monday for the $5 burger deal, or Tuesday if street tacos are your thing. And don’t sleep on the wings or giant German pretzel. Support a local business and get some fresh air while you’re at it!