Hook & Reel Cajun Seafood & Bar

Shrimp and scallops with spicy garlic butter
Shrimp and scallops with spicy garlic butter
Exterior
Interior

***** (5 stars)

I’ve been to a few of these crawfish-in-a-bag type places, and never been very impressed. They tend to be messy but not all that flavorful. But this place is different.

You can tell you’re going to have a good experience here from the moment you walk in the door. The staff is obviously really into what they are doing, and proud of the results. Our server, Wynona, was terrific, and it was apparent everyone else was enjoying themselves, too.

I ordered the shrimp (heads off) and scallops, because I felt they would be the least messy to eat. That was certainly true of the scallops, although the shrimp still need to be peeled, so you’ll want that bib and gloves they bring you! Both the shrimp and scallops were tender and flavorful. The corn on the cob was also particularly good. I chose the spicy garlic butter as my sauce, and it was fantastic.

This was really a tasty meal, and I’ll be back soon.

Hook & Reel Cajun Seafood & Bar
7480 W Colonial Dr
Orlando, FL
32818
(407) 801-5223
https://www.yelp.com/biz/hook-and-reel-cajun-seafood-and-bar-orlando-2

The Edison

Buffalo Chicken Sandwich
Grilled Edison Wings
Interior
Interior
Interior
Exterior

*** (3 stars)

This is a spectacularly set decorated multi-level space where The Adventurer’s Club used to be. Old machinery forms the decor, and old movies play on flat panels and projectors. At night there are even aerial acrobatics, but it’s much more relaxing during the day.

This is the sort of place that almost demands you have a cocktail–preferably a classic cocktail–to match the decor. And the drinks are good, although pricey.

Unfortunately the food doesn’t live up to the surroundings. The menu is pretty much basic sports bar, but not particularly well prepared. Chicken wings were particularly flaccid, with a soggy, loose skin that was quite unappealing. The buffalo chicken sandwich was better, although the accompanying fries were also limp.

Service was friendly and attentive.

The Edison
1570 East Buena Vista Dr
Lake Buena Vista, FL
32830
(407) 560-9288
https://www.yelp.com/biz/the-edison-lake-buena-vista-4