2026 Orlando Sentinel Foodie Awards

I joke a lot about coffee “beverages” and how it seems like most people in coffee shops don’t actually want to drink coffee. From my observations of all the beautiful drinks, hot and cold, I see pro baristas crafting, and it’s probably true.

But, really, who cares? Give the people what they want.

And while I’m marveling at the vanilla cola cold brews and pomegranate silan tonics and the sheer number of alternative milk options available these days, I can sip on my drip or pour over, made from thoughtfully curated beans, and be grateful I live in the city where Easy Luck Coffee & Bodega operates.

I love this bright space, which has everything I want in a coffee shop: solid pours and a knowledgeable staff, a wonderful menu for all kinds of eaters, ample working space, good music, and a cozy feel that reminds me of my Bohemian aunt’s spacious, pre-war Brooklyn apartment. And when I’m ready to slam the laptop shut, they’ve got beer and natural wine to ease me out of work mode.

Downtown’s Stemma features family-farmed coffee and some exceptional bites, while newcomer Águila in the Ivanhood is a friendly and promising shop with a delicious Guajillo-cayenne-spiced mocha and a gorgeous prime location across from the lake and steps from everything the neighborhood offers.

Critic’s Choice

Winner: Easy Luck Coffee & Bodega, 2425 E. S. St. in Orlando; 2425 E. South St. in Orlando

Runners-up: Águila Coffee in Orlando and Stemma Craft Coffee in Orlando

Readers’ Choice

Winner: Foxtail Coffee, multiple locations; foxtailcoffee.com

Runners-up: Park Avenue Cafe in Orlando and Black Phin Coffee Bar in Winter Park

2026 Foodie Awards: Click here to see all the winners!

Want to reach out? Find me on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram @amydroo or on the OSFoodie Instagram account @orlando.foodie. Email: amthompson@orlandosentinel.com. For more foodie fun, join the Let’s Eat, Orlando Facebook group.