Many adventures await inside these doors. | Photo via @laurenscanon
Reading is on the rise, with online searches for “good books” recently hitting an all time high.
If you’re trying to turn more pages in 2026, read some classic literature, or find out what this fictional hockey romance thing is all about, Orlando’s cozy bookstores are the perfect places to start.
It’s one thing to find the perfect book, but this bookstore is dedicated to creating the perfect reading experience. You can build a box that will appeal to all of your senses, resulting in a fully immersive literary experience.
If you identify as a book lover, this store is for you. The romance genre takes center stage here, but if that doesn’t fill your heart, the community aspect will. The shop offers events like author signings and release parties.
Sushi Saint is on a roll — the handroll sushi restaurant by chef Michael Collantes is expanding with a new Winter Park location. More details are forthcoming, so stay tuned.
Parks
Universal Orlando announced its lineup of events and experiences for 2026, including Volcano Bay Nights and Halloween Horror Nights. See the dates and mark your calendars. (Orlando Weekly)
Drink
Sip, sip, hooray — Science on Tap will take over Loch Haven Park from 1 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 24. Over 30 Central Florida breweries will provide the pours while attendees explore interactive science demos, play lawn games, and feast on food truck eats. Grab tickets.
Show
Feeling a little blue? Blue Man Group’s new Orlando show is officially set to debut on Friday, May 1 at Icon Park. Tickets go on sale this Friday, Jan. 16. (Orlando Sentinel)
Mansion Monday
A museum that looks like the Death Star, Africa’s tallest building, and the end of a 144-year project. Those are three architectural marvels on the radar heading into 2026. Here in Orlando, this lakefront home is a marvel of its own. (CNN)
Eat
Pizzerias aren’t ruling the restaurant world like they used to. After hitting a record high in 2019, the number of pizza restaurants in the US has steadily declined, with coffee shops and Mexican restaurants now outnumbering them. Slice lovers, consider this your cue to support local pizza purveyors. (Wall Street Journal)
Jobs
Kick off 2026 by growing your team the smart way. Whether you’re a small business ready to expand or a large company filling a critical role, our Job Board connects you with engaged, qualified local talent ready to work. Post your open roles for free and start the new year with strong applications rolling in.
City Guide
🥪 Let’s do lunch
Orlando’s lunch scene is reflective of our cultural melting pot. | Photo by Bánh Mì Boy
When Floridians hit the drive-thru, one chain reigns supreme. New data from Visual Capitalist shows Pollo Tropical is the most popular fast food restaurant in the Sunshine State.
We can’t say we’re surprised, though these local lunch deals may make you rethink your typical order. Beefy King | 424 N. Bumby Ave.
Grab a sandwich starting at $6.50 and choose from a variety of fillings — including fresh-cooked roast beef, pastrami, turkey breast, or barbecue pork. We recommend pairing it with a $4 milkshake.
Lazy Moon Pizza|Multiple locations
Make sure you’re hungry — these aren’t regular pizza slices. Lazy Moon serves up jumbo slices starting around $7, featuring a whole host of toppings.
Bánh Mì Boy | 1110 E. Colonial Dr.
Inside the Mills Market food court, pair a classic Vietnamese sandwich with a Vietnamese iced coffee for the perfect flavor combination. We’re fans of the inventive Pho French Dip for $11.
Our favorite car accessory: a portable air pump and power bank. Never worry about low tire pressure again with this lightweight device that inflates tires while providing a real-time pressure display. Plus, it features a flashlight + flashing SOS mode for added peace of mind during a breakdown or emergency.
“Thank you for doing such a nice job on this newsletter.” That note came from reader Maureen O. last week, and I wanted to take a moment to say thanks right back, especially for her thoughtful feedback. Maureen said she’d love to see more accessible events at local businesses featured here — and honestly, same.
Quick reminder: Anyone can submit an event to our calendar for possible inclusion in the newsletter. Just tap that purple “Add event” button to get started.
