Lamp & Shade Craft Kitchen and Cocktails

Post

Subscribe

Exploring Asian Fusion in Orlando’s Mills 50 Neighborhood

Nestled in the vibrant Mills 50 neighborhood of Orlando, Lamp & Shade offers a refreshing take on Asian fusion cuisine with a strong Japanese influence. This area, also known as Little Saigon or Little Vietnam, is one of Orlando's oldest neighborhoods, home to young professionals with young families with a plethora of activities throughout the year. With its eclectic décor and lively atmosphere, this hotspot has quickly become a favorite for food enthusiasts seeking unique culinary experiences. Our evening at Lamp & Shade was nothing short of spectacular, and the journey through their creative menu left us eager to return.

A Warm Welcome and Stellar Service

From the moment we stepped inside, the ambiance set the stage for an unforgettable night. The restaurant buzzed with energy. Our fabulous server, Teddy, added a personal touch to the evening with his attentive and friendly service. He guided us through the menu with enthusiasm, making recommendations that turned out to be absolute winners.

An Inviting Atmosphere

Lamp & Shade’s ambiance is as impressive as its cuisine. The restaurant exudes industrial chic, with a wide-open, warehouse feel complemented by retro 50s low-slung chairs and booths along the periphery. The space is adorned with eclectic seating choices and intriguing artwork, including paintings of people enjoying gossip with heads covered by lamp shades, and an old TV-style moon with three olives on a cocktail pick. The left side of the restaurant is dominated by a stunning floor-to-ceiling bar, offering an extensive selection of beverages and serving as a focal point for social gatherings. The bathroom hall, with its neon sign that states "throw some shade" adds a playful and unique touch to the overall experience.

A Symphony of Flavors

Caesar Salad Bites:

Our culinary adventure began with a delightful twist on a classic favorite. The Caesar Salad Bites featured fresh, crisp finely chopped caesar salad perched atop delicious brioche croutons. Each bite was a harmonious blend of textures and flavors, setting a high bar for the dishes that followed.

Hollenback Potatoes:

Next up were the Hollenback Potatoes, a dish that epitomized comfort food with a gourmet twist. These poppable delights were crispy on the outside and melt-in-your-mouth soft on the inside, making them an instant hit at our table. Since I don’t tolerate truffle oil well, mine were made without. Each thinly sliced Hasselback potato fanned out perfectly, allowing every bite to burst with flavor. The au gratin topping, with its rich blend of cheese, spices, and a creamy sauce artfully drizzled along the edge of the plate, elevated the dish to a whole new level of culinary bliss.

Grilled Octopus:

My daughter has become obsessed with octopus recently and this dish was the true reason for our visit. The grilled octopus was a testament to the chef’s expertise. Perfectly cooked and seasoned, it was tender yet had the right amount of char to elevate its natural flavors. Accompanied by a tangy sauce, it was a standout dish that highlighted the restaurant’s emphasis on quality ingredients and meticulous preparation. She’ll definitely be back for more.

Sweet Potato Dumplings with Miso Sauce:

The sweet potato dumplings were a revelation. Encased in delicate wrappers, the sweet potato filling was rich and satisfying. The miso sauce added a depth of umami that complemented the natural sweetness of the potatoes, creating a balanced and memorable dish.


The fried rice with rock shrimp was another highlight. The rice was perfectly cooked, each grain distinct and flavorful. The rock shrimp added a touch of luxury, with their sweet and briny flavor enhancing the overall dish. Teddy described the texture as that like lobster.

Decadent Dessert

The grand finale was a dessert that will be talked about for days to come. The Chocolate Sponge Cake with caramelized miso ice cream and raspberry dust was a masterpiece. The cake was moist and rich, while the caramelized miso ice cream provided a unique and sophisticated contrast. The raspberry dust added a hint of tartness, tying all the elements together in a perfect harmony of flavors.

A Hipster Haven

Lamp & Shade’s location in the Mills 50 neighborhood adds to its charm. The area is known for its hipster vibes and a thriving arts scene, making it a perfect backdrop for the restaurant’s innovative approach. The crowd was diverse and lively, adding to the restaurant's energetic atmosphere.

Conclusion

Our experience at Lamp & Shade was nothing short of extraordinary. From the inventive dishes to the impeccable service provided by Teddy, every aspect of our evening was delightful. If you find yourself in Orlando, a visit to Lamp & Shade is a must. It’s not just a meal; it’s a culinary adventure that promises to leave you with lasting memories.

Whether you're a local or a traveler seeking new gastronomic experiences, Lamp & Shade is the perfect spot to indulge in a symphony of flavors and a lively atmosphere. Don’t forget to save room for dessert; the chocolate sponge cake with caramelized miso ice cream is a treat you won’t want to miss!

Pro Tip: Valet Parking is available at the restaurant. We found parking late afternoon on the small street behind the restaurant. If you're going during prime time, you may want to take an Uber if you don't like to valet park your car.

%wnOrlando
#food_drink
#community
#nightlife