Winter Park Dining

Winter Park isn't packed with high-priced restaurants; instead, the emphasis has always been on good solid cooking. Recently, local bistros have gotten away from homestyle, stodgy cooking and are leaning toward new, innovative cuisine.

The Ranch House Restaurant at Devil's Thumb (726-5633; $$$) has rocketed to the top of the "must try" dining experiences in Winter Park. Tenderloin steaks, rack of lamb, and fresh seafood are prepared in this rustic dining room with views of the Continental Divide.

The Gasthaus Eichler (726-5133; $$-$$$) in the center of Winter Park has an Austrian/German-influenced menu; their Fondue Stube is particularly popular. Locals all rave about The Shed (726-9912; $$) on Hwy. 40, a Mediterranean restaurant and Tapas bar known for its always seasonal and tasty menu options, and Fontenot's Cajun Cafe (726-4021; $$), with fresh fish dishes prepared New Orleans style.

The Untamed Steakhouse at Wildcreek (726-1111; $$-$$$) serves Wood Fire Prime Rib and other cuts of beef, as well as poultry and seafood.

Smokin' Moe's (726-4600; $$), in Cooper Creek Square, has established itself as the place to load up on spicy barbecued ribs, hot links, chicken and 'Okie baloney. For Mexican fare try Fiesta Jalisco (726-4877; $$), which serves so many entrees it's difficult to pick just one. Deno's (726-5332; $-$$), a locals' favorite, has several good pasta dishes as well as chicken, steak and shrimp selections. Base Camp Bakery and Cafe (726-5530; $-$$) is a tiny place that makes excellent breakfasts, baked goods, and nice sandwiches.

In Fraser, DeAntonio's (726-9999; $) makes good pizza and take-out food. Randi's Irish Saloon (726-1172; $-$$$) in downtown Winter Park is a good family restaurant with plenty of traditional pub food served at lunch and dinner.

Hernando's Pizza and Pasta Pub (726-5409; $-$$), with its central fireplace, is recommended by locals, is often crowded, and kids especially love the honey that turns pizza crust into dessert . Great thick-and-chewy-crust pizza with unusual topping combinations are the specialty. Also try the Winter Park Pub (726-4929; $$), downtown on Hwy. 40, which offers traditional pub fare, 15 beers on tap, and "Mystery Beer Night." There are a lot of 20-somethings here.

For the best eggs-and-bacon breakfast in town head straight to The Mountain Rose (726-9940; $), but only if you aren't pressed for time. Carver's Bakery and Cafe (725-8202; $-$$) behind Cooper Creek Square serves breakfasts, amazing cinnamon rolls and superb sandwiches.

On the slopes, the best lunch is at the Mary Jane base area in the Club Car (726-1442; $), expanded and improved for '05-06. Be sure to save room for dessert-particularly the mud pie. The Lodge at Sunspot (726-1446; $-$$; above) atop the mountain is a spectacular setting for a gourmet lunch, or for holiday dinners. Reservations are required for dinner.