An adjunct to the International Drive area that has evolved over the last few years is commonly referred to as Restaurant Row. Centered on the part of Sand Lake Road just west of I-4, it has become a very attractive area that appeals to locals and visitors alike.
The new Whole Foods Market, which probably has half its expansive area dedicated to prepared food kicks off the east end of the street surrounded by a few other eateries including a sushi restaurant and a New York Bakery.
Heading west the highlights include The Samba Room, Seasons 52 and Roy's, these last two being rated in the top ten food spots in Orlando (out of about 1200). I'm guessing the total count for this area would be at least one hundred restaurants/food spots. And the atmosphere is perfectly conducive to taking a stroll through it all. Any city would be proud to have such a nice collection.
The restaurants on the south side of the road back up to Little Sand Lake. This whole area was owned by Dr. Phillips and was the sight of his most extensive citrus groves. He was a partner of my great grandfather in a couple of ventures and they were close friends. His son was Howard Phillips who died childless and left the bulk of his wealth to a foundation which has been the source of much cultural funding in Orlando over the years. Howard was murdered by a hustler in San Francisco and from a couple who are best friends of mine and were frequent dinner guests of Howard's, I understand he was quite a colorful character. He was well known for sending out dinner invitations to his ultra-modern house on Lake Formosa in Loch Haven Park. He willed the home to the city and it has become the Menello Museun of Folk Art. Invitations were clearly marked with the starting and ending times for the repast. Promptly upon the hour marked for departure, Howard would rise and thank everyone for coming. This, along with the butler already having gathered their hats and coats, was the signal for everyone to leave. Occasionally, my friends the Spences, and at other times, my friends the Kellers, would be asked to stay. This special honor was extended to only a select few. And knowing these two couples to be among the most charming people I have ever met, I heartily approve his taste.
The area immediately north of Restaurant Row is called Dr. Phillips. The neighborhood Sand Lake Road runs into as it heads west is Bay Hill. About fifteen years ago we did a garden here for the famous musical innovator and founder of "The Byrds," Roger McGuinn. We did landscaping and a water feature for another home here that had originally graced the cover of Better Homes and Gardens as an example of modern design back in the sixties. If one follows the road as it snakes through the lovely homes here you will eventually come to the Bay Hill Country Club. This course is home to the nationally televised Arnold Palmer Classic PGA tournament. The area predates the opening of Disney by several years, and has gone through its renovation phase in the last decade. The oaks are starting to provide a nice canopy. And now that Restaurant Row has matured, the area finally has sufficient infrastructure to allow its residents to enjoy almost any amenity they might want within two or three miles of their homes. This southwest area in general, including Bay Hill and Windermere, have become magnets for the ultra-rich from around the world who fall in love with Disney and decide they want a home near there. The fact that the area has evolved attractive commercial areas amid the pristine chain of lakes and highly ranked golf courses helps seal the deal. It's nice, but old Orlando suits me better
A View of Little Sand Lake, which sits just behind Restaurant Row's South Side. Not that long ago, swimming here was like swimming in a crystal clear spring. The name comes from being able to see the sandy bottom so clearly. The water flows south for several miles through the much larger-Big Sand Lake!
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