Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Maitland, Orlando / Central Florida East

We had the absolute best time at the Eye restaurant! We cannot say enough. The food, the drinks, the ambience, the music, totally outstanding! We will definitely be back! 

Leiah has quickly become one of my favorite local fine-dining restaurants in Orlando. I felt compelled to write this after seeing a very short one-star review with almost no specifics. It did not reflect my experience. I have dined at Leiah several times, including lunch with my friend Pamela, and each visit has been thoughtful, polished and memorable. Pamela ordered the Beets and Bees salad, beautifully presented with vibrant beets, greens and a generous portion. We split the lobster bisque, which was decadent and deeply flavorful. We learned the base is made from lobster shells simmered for 12 hours into a rich reduction, and you can taste that care. I ordered the house-made seafood fettuccine, and the seafood was cooked perfectly. The pasta, sauce and portion size felt elevated without being fussy. Leiah is not inexpensive, but the value is there. There is a lunch tasting menu around $35, and when we ordered à la carte, we each had enough left over for another meal. I also disagree with the criticism about “poor wine choices.” By my estimate, the list has around 75 selections, which is ambitious for an intimate restaurant of roughly 50 seats. For a small chef-driven restaurant, that shows real investment. Service has been attentive every time. I appreciate the small touches: quality tableware, elegant decor and a dining room that feels curated rather than generic. My only concern, and I say this as an impression rather than a fact, is that Leiah does not appear to do much marketing. I never would have known about it if a friend had not raved about it. More people should discover it. As a business owner, I know how damaging vague one-star reviews can be, especially with no photos, details or clear explanation. Consider that small independent restaurants operate under enormous pressure and often represent someone’s life savings, long hours and vision. Leiah deserves to be judged by the full experience: food, service, wine, atmosphere and care. It delivers.

It was a near perfect experience. The quality of the food, service and ambience made the price seem quite a good value. Can't wait to go back.

We always enjoy going there with our little one. I had the short ribs for the first time with the alligot potatoes and it was truly delicious. The service was excellent. There was just a loud group right next to us swearing all the time which wasn’t the greatest. Once they left we were able to enjoy ourselves again

Our first time here! It was date night and we enjoyed the romantic rooftop lounge as the sun was setting. The butter candle with warm bread was fun and so delicious! I had the shrimp cocktail and my shrimp were fresh and colossal. The espresso martini was perfect. Friendly, attentive service. We will definitely return.