Hawkers Asian Street Food — Restaurant in Orlando

My family and my best friend’s family came to eat here together this afternoon as a party of 8 (4 adults, 2 children, and 2 babies). We heard lots of good things about this place from a few friends so we were excited to try their food. Unfortunately, we were made to feel pretty unwelcome from the moment that we arrived. It was lunch time and it wasn’t very busy yet, but there were no tables available to accommodate a party of of our size, so the hostess told us it would be 20-30 minutes. That would not have been an issue and we were all okay with waiting, but we were asked to wait outside in our cars. As I mentioned, it wasn’t very busy and we weren’t blocking any walkways so this felt extremely inconsiderate to tell us to wait outside with our kids in 94 degree weather. The bar stools in the front area had just opened up, so we decided to order a drink while we waited. The bartender asked if we were waiting for a table to which I replied “yes.” As I was scanning the bar while silently deciding what to order, he told us “you could order a drink since you’re taking up my entire bar.” I was literally 2 seconds away from ordering a drink, but I was so taken back by his rude comment that I immediately changed my mind and decided that I would order my drink from our server once we were sat. Strike one. By this point we all felt unwelcome and unsure of where to wait so we collectively decided we would not like to wait and we would just go elsewhere. I told a different girl at the hostess stand that we were going to leave, but she replied that our table was ready and they were cleaning it now so we decided we would stay after all. Fast forward to 15 minutes later, the table was still not ready and we were told several times that they would text us when it was ready. We all found it odd since there was no one else waiting in the front. We were all afraid to wait at the bar after the bartender’s rude comment so my friend asked if she could wait at the empty table with her baby while we waited for it to be cleaned. She was told no she could not. So now we aren’t allowed to wait in the front, not allowed to wait at the bar, and not allowed to wait at the dirty table that had been empty for 15 minutes. I have worked in restaurants for years and I was super offended by the treatment of our families. I told the hostess that we were leaving and she was very not necessarily rude, but more so passive aggressive, with her communication style. She said the table was ready but we didn’t have to be there if we didn’t want to. By this point our kids were hungry and it would have been a whole entire hassle to get everyone reloaded into the cars to go elsewhere, so we reluctantly decided to stay. The food was good. Our server was a sweetheart. But the hostess and the bartender really spoiled the entire experience for all of us. A bit of advice: good or bad customer service can make or break an entire experience regardless of how great your food is. Sadly, I cannot recommend anyone...

I first reviewed Hawkers about five years ago. I have a general rule that I try not to go back to the same restaurant again until my personal five year "statute of limitations" has passed. This forces me to continue to explore and try new places.

But when you have a place as special as Hawkers, I have no choice but to break my own rules. And I have certainly broken them. I've probably been to Hawkers two dozen times since 2019. And I have no regrets.

Obviously, the people love it, too. There are many more new locations since 2019. I just hope quantity doesn't lead to the decline in quality, like a few other local chains have suffered from. So far, so good, though, every time is just like the first time, and they certainly aren't afraid to try new, awesome menu items!

I brought a friend here to show them the awesomeness at the end of last summer, and they were in the middle of a seasonal menu. So I had to get a seasonal item. Who knew if I would ever see it again! Of course, it was such a banger, that it is now on their regular menu.

I got the Duck Fried Rice (Five-spice hand-pulled duck, lap cheong, egg, crispy shallots, and veggies. Optional fried duck leg add-on). Yes, yes, yes. Delicious, tender duck. Fried shallots. Great flavor throughout. A good portion size. And yes, I got that duck leg, which was more delicious meat. I was in heaven. They have a winner here.

Of course we also got the Roti Canai. I haven't ever gone to Hawkers and not gotten the Roti. It's the perfect appetizer. Thin, flakey, crispy roti. A heavenly little bowl of the signature curry sauce. Friendships have been forged over this dish. Lovely.

So year, I don't have a ton to write from my most recently visit, but I've already been again since even this visit, and I anticipate that 2024 will be my most Hawkers...

ulinary Jewel in Winter Park – An Ode to Hawkers

From the moment I stepped into Hawkers in Winter Park, Orlando, I knew I was in for a treat. This is not just another dining experience; it’s a journey of flavors, an exceptional service odyssey, led by the remarkable Lisa, who not only knows the menu inside out but also has the kind of warmth and attention to detail that elevates a meal from good to unforgettable.

The food at Hawkers is nothing short of a masterpiece. Each dish we ordered was a celebration of authentic flavors, beautifully plated, beckoning us to dive in and explore the rich tapestry of tastes. The speed at which our dishes arrived was impressive, demonstrating the kitchen’s efficiency and passion for food, ensuring every bite was as fresh as it could possibly be.

But what truly set Hawkers apart was the extraordinary service. Lisa, with her exceptional attention and genuine care, made us feel not just welcomed but truly special. Her recommendations were spot on, guiding us through a culinary adventure that was both exciting and comforting.

In a city brimming with dining options, Hawkers stands out as a beacon of culinary excellence. It’s not just about the food, though it could easily be; it’s about how every element of the experience comes together to create something memorable. This is a place not just to eat, but to celebrate – the joy of food, the pleasure of company, and the unparalleled service that makes you look forward to your next visit before the current one has even ended.

To the team at Hawkers, and especially to Lisa, thank you for a dining experience that was truly extraordinary. Your passion for what you do shines brightly, making Hawkers a must-visit for anyone looking for an exceptional meal in Winter Park,...