Orlando's Sparrow Wins Best New
Orlando's Sparrow was named Best New Restaurant in the Foodie Awards for its "small, sexy" high-flying vibe. The restaurant is drawing buzz for its intimate atmosphere and elevated dining experience. Singapore's Ma Der Kin Khao on Beach Road is also gaining attention for its unique Thai culinary focus.
Sparrow's "Best New Restaurant" title comes from the Orlando Sentinel's 2026 Foodie Awards, a reader-voted competition that saw tens of thousands of nominations across 50 categories. The awards celebrate a wide range of local eateries and culinary concepts throughout the Orlando area. The restaurant is the latest venture from the Good Salt Restaurant Group, operated by James Beard-nominated restaurateurs Jason and Sue Chin. At the helm of the kitchen is Chef Wendy Lopez, who brings her Spanish heritage and experience with French and Portuguese techniques to the menu. Sparrow’s menu is inspired by Southern European flavors, featuring small plates that encourage a shared dining experience. Dishes range from tuna and salmon crudo to jamón ibérico and short rib ragù, showcasing a blend of coastal influences. Meanwhile, Singapore's Ma Der Kin Khao is carving out a niche with its focus on the underrepresented cuisines of Thai Isan and Laos. The name of the restaurant translates to "come eat" in Lao, reflecting a welcoming and home-style approach to its food. The menu at Ma Der Kin Khao features traditional dishes with bold and herbaceous flavors. Diners can expect offerings like Soop Pak Lao, a Laotian salad with a fermented fish sauce dressing, and keng no mai, a fragrant bamboo soup.
