DaFoodie

A host of swanky bars, 45 portable concession stands and Jernigan’s full-service restaurant deliver an astonishing 1:150 ratio of grub options-to-spectators at Orlando’s brand-new Amway Center.

Executive chef John Nicely and his Levy Restaurants team were tapped to create an expansive array of options for hungry game and concert-goers, from the stalwart cheeseburger (with a twist – a pretzel one, to be exact) to a light, mayo-free seafood salad. As an avid sports fan and self-proclaimed foodie, I jumped at the chance to sample a preview of center’s signature snacks.

Though the “quasi-dilla” aims to marry a cheeseburger and a quesadilla, it seemed to suffer an identity crisis in execution. Better was a classic BBQ pulled pork sandwich — a mouthful of tangy deliciousness and crunch from the crispy onions. These textures were key and the flavor was full. 

[Quasi-Dilla]

[BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich]

Though the Magic burger arrived ensconced in a pretzel bun, the novelty factor wasn’t enough to elevate it from good to great.  Its veggie burger counterpart was more like a veggie spread on a bun, but the brown rice, black beans, molasses and spices transcended their individual flavors in astounding harmony, a welcome change from the standard meaty sub. 

[Magic Burger]

[Veggie Burger]

Being a comfort food snob meant my personal fave was the chicken fried steak sandwich. Coated in buttermilk and flour, the fried chicken breasts are paired with a fluffy potato bun and doused in succulent chicken gravy. Perfectly crisp breading and moist chicken made this finger-licking-worthy.

[Chicken Fried Steak Sandwich]

The Magic seafood salad was also a success.  A layered concoction of avocado, tomatoes, crab, shrimp and lobster drizzled with lemon and olive oil, it  delivered a refreshing lift to the palate. Of all the items we sampled, only the overly bitter Japanese Pan Noodles fell flat. With so many crave-able options, this is not one I would order again.

[Magic seafood salad]

[Japanese Pan Noodles]

Not only am I ready for the Orlando Magic season to start because I love basketball, I am so ready to hit up each and every food option in that center… over and over again!

For more, visit Amwaylicious.com

Post by: Colleen Burns w/Yelp and the LadyBallers.