Even Meat Eaters Can’t Help But Fall in Love With the Menu at This Plant-Based Restaurant in Florida

Nowadays, being plant-based is much more common than it once was. This is largely due in part to people looking to eat healthier, environmental advantages, and also a love of animals. I can say personally that whenever I choose to indulge in plant-based fare, it often has to do with all three of those reasons rolled into one delicious meal. We're lucky to live in a time where veganism is not only acceptable but also encouraged, and indulging in a scrumptious, animal-free meal is easier than ever. One place that really sticks out for me as a spot you can take your meat-eating friends to and still have them leave satisfied is Winter Park Biscuit Co. in Orlando. This plant-based restaurant in Florida serves good old-fashioned comfort food, and to be honest, you'll never even miss the meat.

Winter Park Biscuit Company is a popular vegan eatery inside East End Market in Orlando, Florida. Despite its name, this spot offers much more than just biscuits, specializing in Southern-style comfort food with a fully plant-based twist. Founded by chef Mary Mattern and her husband Neil Westfall (guitarist of A Day to Remember), the restaurant has quickly gained a dedicated following for its innovative takes on classic favorites.

The menu features an array of delicious, meat-free options, including their signature “Crispy Chik Sandwich” and the “Death Valley Chik Sandwich,” which is a spicy take on a classic fried chicken sandwich. They also offer the “WPBC Burger,” made with Impossible beef, as well as baskets of hand-breaded chik'n tenders served with house-made sauces. Of course, their namesake biscuits are a highlight. They are made with an oat buttermilk recipe and served with vegan butter and apple butter. Sides include crispy waffle fries, coleslaw, and mac and cheese, all crafted without animal products.

I was lucky enough to try not one but two sandwiches from the menu during a visit, and I can see why this spot has developed such a cult following. The breakfast sandwich was an indulgence I would repeat every Sunday—the biscuit was thick and fluffy, with a hint of sweetness. Paired with a Just Egg patty and a vegan sausage covered in melted cheese, this was my favorite bite of the day, especially with a little dash of Cholula hot sauce.

But I will say the Crispy Chik Sandwich is just as tasty and deserves all the accolades, too. I think the heft of it was impressive, and between the lettuce, pickles, and homemade ranch - I couldn't tell this wasn't real chicken. The seasoning and crisp on the outside would give Kentucky Fried Chicken a run for its money any day.

Winter Park Biscuit Company operates daily from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., offering both indoor counter seating and an outdoor dining area within the lively East End Market space. The restaurant has earned praise for its ability to capture the rich, indulgent flavors of classic Southern comfort food without using any meat or dairy - and as someone who has tried it, I can whole-heartedly confirm.

While plant-based fare may be hard to come by for a fun road trip meal, we have other delicious road trip snacks to take with you on your next adventure.