5 Flavorful Foods to Find in Florida

Whether you’re a native Floridian or just visiting, trying out the flavorful foods in this diverse state is an absolute must. The Sunshine State, and especially cities like Orlando, Naples, and Tallahassee, offers an authentic foody experience that are both delicious and social media-worthy.

In fact, many tourists and locals find it easy to over-indulge when trying to fill their fancy. Allergen risks and toothaches might lead you to a specialist or dentist—Miami and the surrounding areas host professionals who make a good living providing relief for over-eating. Just because the food is so good doesn’t mean that eating all of it all at once is good for you.

From flavor-packed seafood to locally grown specialties, if it’s a tasty dish you’re after, take a few days to enjoy the spread. You need look no further than various local Floridian delicacies!

Key Lime Pie

Thought to have originated in the mid-1800s on the island of Key West, this pie has its roots firmly planted in Floridian history.

The classic recipe requires limes grown in South Florida—often called Key Limes for their association with the area—plus some sweetened condensed milk and egg yolk. This combination of tart and sweet is as popular today as it was during the early years when locals would pick fresh limes right off the tree.

Understandably, key lime pie is a popular dish in Florida and is offered in many restaurants and cafes.

Grouper

Grouper is the perfect seafood dish to try in the Sunshine State if you’re looking to take a bite out of the local ecosystem.

Florida grouper has been famous for generations, and it’s not hard to see why—its firm flesh makes it ideal for grilling, pan-frying, or poaching. Plus, its color and mild flavor make it a crowd favorite among diners of all ages.

You can even catch it yourself! There’s nothing like preparing your meal from start to finish.

Stone Crab Claws

Florida hosts various culinary delicacies, with stone crab claws at the top of the list.

Stone crabs are native to the Gulf Coast waters and have a unique, sweet flavor that keeps you wanting more.

Not only are stone crab claws delicious, but they’re also a sustainable seafood choice because stone crabs can regrow harvested claws. When harvested responsibly, stone crabs can still reproduce and remain healthy while helping promote their ecosystem.

The claws are typically steamed or boiled and served with melted butter or cocktail sauce. Stone crab claws are usually only available during the stone crab season, which runs from mid-October to mid-May.

Orange Juice

Florida happens to be one of the world’s leading producers of oranges, with nearly 70% of US orange production coming out of the state. Locals regularly buy freshly squeezed orange juice right off the farm every day. So, it’s no surprise that orange juice is one of Florida’s staples.

Most Floridians recognize oranges as part of their heritage and support local farmers. You should consider doing the same during your visit—if not for a glass of orange juice, maybe at least for a mimosa.

Seafood Gumbo

Seafood gumbo is a stew traditionally made with shrimp, crabmeat, okra, and rice, showcasing the cultural impact of the nearby Caribbean Islands.

This one-of-a-kind dish originates in Creole cuisine with influences from Caribbean, Spanish, African, and French cuisines. Each region of Florida features its own take on Seafood Gumbo, offering diverse ingredients and flavors to suit those with an experimental palate.