Orlando’s food scene is starting the year strong with a lineup of new restaurants opening across Orange County. From handmade dumplings and Mediterranean comfort food to toasted sandwiches, crispy chicken, and classic frozen custard, January is bringing plenty of fresh options for locals to explore. Here are five real restaurants opening in Orlando in January that deserve a spot on your must-try list.
1. Jiang’s Kitchen
📍 27 E Robinson St, Orlando, FL 32801
Jiang’s Kitchen is a new Chinese restaurant focusing on handmade dumplings, noodles, and traditional comfort dishes. Located near Lake Eola, the concept is expected to feature soup dumplings, pan-fried bao, and classic regional flavors in a casual, modern setting—perfect for downtown lunches or relaxed dinners.
2. Olea Taverna
📍 3231 Edgewater Dr, Orlando, FL 32804
Taking over the former Local Bar & Grill space, Olea Taverna is bringing a Greek-inspired dining experience to College Park. The menu is expected to feature Mediterranean classics, shareable plates, and a strong wine and cocktail program, making it a welcome addition to the neighborhood dining scene.
3. Potbelly Sandwich Works – Gateway Village
📍 5455 Gateway Village Cir Unit 100, Orlando, FL 32812
Potbelly is expanding in Orlando with a new location near Gateway Village. Known for its toasted sandwiches, soups, and hand-dipped shakes, this opening is ideal for airport employees, nearby office workers, and travelers looking for a quick, reliable bite.
4. Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers
📍 625 N Alafaya Trail, Orlando, FL 32828
Raising Cane’s continues its rapid expansion across Florida with another Orlando-area opening scheduled for January. Fans can expect the brand’s signature chicken fingers, crinkle-cut fries, Texas toast, and Cane’s Sauce—along with the usual grand-opening buzz.
5. Abbott’s Frozen Custard
📍 2445 N Courtenay Pkwy Ste B, Merritt Island, FL 32952
A longtime favorite in the Northeast, Abbott’s Frozen Custard is opening its first Central Florida location this January. Known for freshly churned frozen custard and rotating daily flavors, it’s shaping up to be a new go-to dessert stop heading into the new year.
Orlando’s January Dining Outlook
From handcrafted dumplings and Mediterranean flavors to toasted sandwiches, crispy chicken, and classic custard, these January openings highlight Orlando’s continued growth as a top food destination. Whether you’re trying something new downtown or scouting your next neighborhood favorite, these restaurants offer plenty of reasons to start the year eating well.
