A Visit to Slate Leaves a Clean Plate

  One of Central Florida's premiere dining establishments sits tucked away in the corner of a Trader Joe's shopping center in Dr. Phillips. But the unassuming locale shouldn't fool prospective diners. Slate restaurant's exquisite atmosphere and artistic culinary dishes whisk guests into the 7th heaven of dining, making the restaurant one of our area's hidden gems.

  Greeted by an amiable host and attentive server, the evening began with an upbeat chat and a friendly welcome. After being seated, Slate furnished our table with two delicious cocktails: the cranberry champagne cocktail and the Slate's special Old-Fashioned. But the highly skilled staff can provide much more than just these simple favorites, including the restaurant's own original libations.

    The menu offers guests the opportunity to choose from a wide range of options from meat to fish to vegan meals. Chef Kevin Ho's one-of-a-kind menu presents a meld of wood-fired fired meats and seafood, joined by pizzas, light bites and cocktails. The restaurant's interior design is accented with brick and slatted woods and modern furniture and decor, culminating in an elegant rustic atmosphere.

  For the appetizer, we chose Slate's tasty and juicy clams which rival the standards of Florida's best seafood restaurants. Our main courses: scallops and steak. Though not exclusively a steakhouse, Slate's succulent Filet encompasses the taste of Morton's and nearly surpasses the tender cuts of La Cantina. The freshly prepared scallops melted like butter at first bite, with sides of broccoli, cauliflower and diced potatoes adding even more flare to the already salivating dishes.

  Although our bellies were supremely filled and our palates satisfied, curiosity overcame self-discipline, and we further indulged in the restaurant's selection of fine wines, leaving any connoisseur pining for more.

  The restaurant's panoramic view of Granada Estates and Sand Lake Road features brilliant sunsets athwart a backdrop of quaint mediteranean style villas. Flanked by Slate's rustic outdoor torches and modern decor inside, visitors will be enamored by the many unique luxury cars passing by and the beautiful spring weather when the restaurant opens wide its doors and windows.

  Slate opens in the evenings on most days and the restaurant hosts Saturday and Sunday brunch from 9:30 AM to 3:00 PM. Slate also offers a cocktail happy hour earlier in the week on Monday from 4:30 PM until close and Tuesday from 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM.

 You'll immediately fall in love with this masterpiece of modern fine dining— from the delicious food and cocktails to the ornate contemporary architecture and design. Start off your evening with a fresh slate and finish it with a clean plate: make a reservation now at SlateOrlando.com.