The Glass Knife’s Cakeistry class is a must-do!
Winner: Something Sweet | The Glass Knife
Whether it’s a towering slice of cake, a buttery croissant or an intricately decorated pastry, The Glass Knife has become the place Central Floridians turn when a sweet craving strikes. That reputation has earned the restaurant and bakery the title of Best Place for Something Sweet in Orlando magazine’s Best of ORL.
Since opening in Winter Park in 2017, and now with a second location on Park Avenue, The Glass Knife has built a loyal following with its elegant desserts, house-made pastries and all-day café menu. Display cases filled with colorful cakes, tarts, cookies and seasonal specialties greet guests as soon as they walk through the doors, making it difficult to leave with just one treat.
The polished dining rooms and classic European-inspired atmosphere have also made The Glass Knife a popular spot for celebrations, afternoon coffee dates and weekend brunches. Guests often stop in for a slice of cake, then leave with pastries boxed for later.
By pairing meticulous baking techniques with beautiful presentation and consistently memorable flavors, The Glass Knife has created more than a bakery. It has become one of Central Florida’s favorite destinations for life’s sweetest moments.
AJ Chocolate House offers a wide selection of hand-crafted chocolate confections to wow even the most discerning tastebuds.
Winner: Best Chocolate Shop | AJ Chocolate House
Every piece of chocolate at AJ Chocolate House begins with careful attention to detail, from hand-painted bonbons to rich truffles and artisan chocolate bars. That dedication has earned the Winter Park chocolatier the title of Best Chocolate Shop in Orlando magazine’s Best of ORL.
Founded by award-winning chocolatier Algimantas “AJ” Jablonskas, the boutique specializes in small-batch confections that blend classic European techniques with creative flavors and striking presentation. Each chocolate is crafted by hand, transforming premium ingredients into edible works of art.
Guests visiting the cozy shop on Winter Park’s Park Avenue discover an assortment that changes throughout the year, featuring seasonal collections alongside signature favorites. Colorful bonbons with delicate shells reveal layers of ganache, caramel and fruit fillings, while chocolate bars and specialty treats offer something for every palate. Want to make a splash at your table? Try their decadent tea towers, pictured on this month’s cover.
The result is an experience that feels both approachable and luxurious, proving that exceptional chocolate is as much about craftsmanship as it is flavor. Readers clearly agree, naming AJ Chocolate House Central Florida’s best place to satisfy any chocolate lover.
Petty’s Meats offers a huge selection of meats. The shop also offers a variety of prepared foods to throw right on the grill or straight into the oven.
Winner: Specialty Food Store | Petty’s Meats
For more than four decades, Petty’s Meats has been a destination for Orlando food lovers seeking quality, expertise and old-fashioned customer service. Now, the Longwood institution has another accolade to add to its legacy, earning first place in Orlando magazine’s 2026 Best of ORL awards for Best Specialty Food Store.
Established in 1979, Petty’s Meats has built its reputation one customer at a time. What began as a neighborhood butcher shop has evolved into one of Central Florida’s most respected specialty markets, known for premium meats, gourmet offerings and a level of personal service that has become increasingly rare today.
At the heart of Petty’s success is its commitment to quality. Shoppers won’t find rows of prepackaged, mass-produced meats behind the counter. Instead, the market specializes in freshly cut USDA Prime and USDA Choice beef, premium pork and all-natural, hormone-free Grade A chicken. The store’s team of master butchers remains a cornerstone of the business, offering custom cuts, cooking advice and recipe recommendations tailored to each customer’s needs.
Save room for dessert, Petty’s has a wide selection of sweets.
That personalized approach has helped Petty’s stand apart in a competitive marketplace. Face-to-face service remains a defining feature of the shopping experience, with knowledgeable staff members available to answer questions and guide customers toward the right products for everything from weeknight dinners to holiday feasts.
While the meat department may be the star attraction, Petty’s offers much more than steaks and chops. Its full-service deli features more than 50 freshly prepared salads, along with premium deli meats, artisan cheeses and fresh breads. Customers can also browse an extensive selection of gourmet groceries sourced from around the world, explore a carefully curated wine department, or choose from a variety of oven-ready entrees designed for convenience without sacrificing quality.
The market’s offerings extend beyond everyday shopping. Petty’s is also known for custom gift baskets, gourmet sausages and highly regarded catering services that have made it a favorite for celebrations, corporate events and family gatherings throughout Central Florida.
Publisher’s Note: We bought our first Turducken for Thanksgiving at Petty’s Meats!
