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Yellow Dog Eats
Categories: Restaurants Delis Restaurants Sandwiches Restaurants Barbeque Delis, Sandwiches, Barbeque [Edit]
1236 Hempel AveWindermere, FL 34786
(407) 296-0609
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Private Lot
- Attire:
- Casual
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
- Takes Reservations:
- No
- Delivery:
- No
- Take-out:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- No
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Wi-Fi:
- No
- Good For:
- Lunch
- Alcohol:
- Beer & Wine Only
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Ambience:
- Casual
- Has TV:
- No
- Caters:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
95 reviews for Yellow Dog Eats
Review Highlights
"The smell is amazing, the pulled pork is so tender and..."
(in 36 reviews)
"THIS is a MUST VISIT if you are in Orlando."
(in 21 reviews)
"I love the Mexi Mutt and the Club Elvis."
(in 5 reviews)
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95 reviews in English
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Review from Sharon D.
Costa Mesa, CA
1/28/2012
I was in Orlando for only 7days and we ate here 4times.
Need I say more.
The Rufus was my favorite.
The Ribs were amazing, these were up there with the Rufus.
The Caprese Salad was tasty.
The Blue Suede Shoes was my second favorite.
The Thin Elvis came in third yet is is a number one as well.
My only qualm with the food was that it wasn't warm enough.
Otherwise It was really great.
If you are in the area don't pass this one up. -
Review from Erik S.
Orlando, FL
1/24/2012
I have to say I've only been in Orlando for 2 months, but I think I found my place to take out of towners. I don't think I've ever had a better pulled pork sandwich, and I've been all over the US. Yellow Dog Eats is a unique place that was recommended by my vet tech who just so happened to be in culinary school. He said listen, you have to go to this place called Yellow Dog Eats, the chef's name is Fish. I thought it was strange and I was intrigued. And so it started. I had the pleasure of going to Yellow Dog this past weekend, and I am so glad I did. For one thing, this isn't your usual restaurant. First off, it's actually a remodeled home. It is absolutely homey inside and the decor is very eclectic to say the least. Pictures of previous customers and their four legged friends adorn the door frames and cover the walls. Yellow Dog being a dog friendly restaurant earn 2 stars from me now that I have a puppy ;) . They have something for everyone here with not only sandwiches, soups and salads but what they are known better for is their BBQ. My wife being a pseudo vegan was in heaven because they have many vegetarian options which is awesome since I can come here for the BBQ and my wife can come for the unique and creative veggie sandwiches.
So about that BBQ. I usually don't swear on here because I like to keep it professional. But the BBQ is fucking delicious. It's out of this world. I've never had "gold" sauce. Coming from Chicago we have that rich dark sauce and I had never been exposed to anything so light as the gold sauce at Yellow Dog. But it was awesome. I ended up getting the Rufus which is their traditional pulled pork sandwich with melted Brie, Raspberry Melba. I got it with fried onions and bacon and I have to say it was unbelievable. The pulled pork was tender and juicy, the bbq sauce had the right amount of heat. Brie and Raspberry just made it come altogether. I think next time I would try the Elvis as that seems more traditional but this was still absolutely delicious.
I think the best part about YD is that they have so many different things to choose from, and they do specials daily which they post on Facebook. I love how into social media they are and I think that is important nowadays for businesses. I look forward to giving Fish and the rest of YD my business for as long as I am in the Orlando area. Great Job Guys!! -
Review from Sarah E.
Clermont, FL
1/18/2012
If I wasn't broke, I would be here much more often.
We've been once for dinner, and once for their wine tasting in December of '11. The atmosphere has an eclectic feel to it. Lots of different wines for sale as well as spreads and sauces that Fish makes himself. The staff is really laid back and friendly, which always makes for an enjoyable experience at any restaurant.
When we went for dinner, I had the pulled pork on a salad. Kind of a conundrum. What can I say? I let my health-nut tendencies get the better of me. I digress...The pork was delicious. It was even better on my husband's sandwich, though. He got the special they had going for the day. The name of it escapes me at the moment, but all you need to know is that it had beer-cheese soup and pulled pork together on a bun, along with something fried ( I think it was onions strings?). Oh my, was it delicious.
The food at the wine tasting was epic. I heard a choir singing somewhere every time I took a bite of the smoked mac and cheese or smoked salmon. I discovered a new wine love there, called Sweet Ass. Although the most of the crowd in attendance were not my kind of people, I could tell everyone was enjoying themselves just the same. Go if you ever get the chance.
One final thing...Take your pup if you eat outside! I love a dog friendly restaurant. -
Review from Brian F.
Irvine, CA
This place is awesome! I went there twice in my week stay in the area and half of our crew went 4 times! The second night we went we had ribs waiting for us, best ribs I have ever ate. Period. Nice smoke flavor really moist and almost falling off the bone. The gold bbq sauce they make is outstanding. Next time I am in the area it will be my first stop. Oh yeah the tomato, mozzarella caprese type salad was yummy.
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Review from Cat M.
1/16/2012
I've been here quite a few times and have yet to be disappointed. And it seems the weirder my selections are, the better the sandwich gets! Wasabi dressing? Cucumber rings? Orange flavored mayo? Ya... it's allllll good!!!
I also love the vibe of this place. The inside can get a little congested but the outdoor section is so cute and arty and happy. Everyone that works there seems to be having a party too!
Also the redneck wine glasses they sell are freakin awesome.
I love YDE. -
Review from Erik A.
Stroudsburg, PA
1/8/2012
There is nothing bad on the menu and Fish, the owner, always has some great daily special. This is the only place that even if I don't care for an ingredient I will keep it on the sandwich. These creations seem to blend all of the flavors perfectly and I'm afraid if I take something out I miss the experience.
The price is reasonable and they also have some pretty tasty deserts to finish it off. -
Review from Walter K.
Yellow dog eats is one of the coolest places I've been able to discover while eating. It's not much of a secret, during out lunch time visit there was a line almost out the door.
Everything here is done so well and unique, with the decor, atmosphere, and most importantly the food, miles above so many other places.
I visited with my family over Christmas. My mom doesn't go out to eat too much, she has lived Windermere for years and ever visited YDE. But as we were leaving she told Fish, the owner, that she would be back.
Good wine and beer line the walls of what is basically a simple sandwich shop that hones its craft with a few basic and succulent flavors. Soups, salad, and wraps round out the entire menu.
YDE has some of the best buffalo sauce I've ever had. Perfect amount of tang, flavor and heat. There are so much fresh ingredients used here, and it really makes a difference. The pulled pork is tender and flavorful by itself, which not many places can do well.
Bottom line: The crowds are proof of how excellent this place is. It's rare and refreshing to see a restaurant owner so happy and involved with customers. This is the kind of space that the travel of food network wants to discover/exploit. Get here ASAP. -
Review from Melissa A.
Orlando, FL
1/19/2012
This is a must if you're in the area. It has a nice blend of flavors and very crunchy bacon :)
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Review from Jeff K.
11/14/2011 1 Check-in Here
I think the only thing that really separates this from one of those small-town "hidden gem" locations that you might see someone on the Travel Channel happen across by accident is the line of customers stretching from the front counter all the way to the back, winding around the tables and curving around towards the front again.
Is this the only restaurant in Gotha? If not, I'm sure it's one of the best.
Yellow Dog Eats, the latest Top Five entry in my ever-evolving list of sandwich destinations sorted by awesomeness, is the kind of place that can put you at odds with the Yelper Lifestyle, if there is such a thing. The phrase "I could eat here every day", which will almost certainly drift across your mind as you tuck into that sandwich, doesn't mesh too well with the desire to constantly branch out and try new places.
Luckily (or unluckily, depending on which way the wind between my ears is blowing) the 20-mile drive from my house is too much for this little spot to become habit forming.
The Johnny Rocket was my selection, and it didn't disappoint with its out of the ordinary mix of different flavors that worked well, even if it looked a little odd on paper. Looking around, I can say that there is very little doubt in my mind that I'll be trying one of the BBQ sandwiches next time. The ones that I saw around me looked amazing.
I also tried the soup of the day, which was tomato basil. It tasted fine, but after a few bites it started to feel like I was eating a bowl of marinara sauce.
The whole place has that quirky-yet-homey atmosphere that makes you feel (massive line of customers notwithstanding) like you've just been let in on a secret when you walk in the door. Random customer scribblings cover everything from the yellow walls to the wooden tables, and everywhere you look are old, worn 4x6 photos of dogs tacked onto beams and walls. Out back is a small area with some additional tables and greenery, reminding me of the small private courtyards found behind some of the bed & breakfast buildings in the historic part of Savannah, GA.
Try not to go here if you're in a hurry, because if you hit it at a popular time like we did, you'll be in line for a while. Use the wait time to soak it all in, look around, and look over the menu.
You might as well decide what you're going to get next time too, because you'll be back.Listed in: Want Sammich Now
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Review from Mike S.
Genesis 1:40
On the 8th day, God created Fish, the coolest surfer chef ever.
On the 9th day, Fish created pulled pork sandwiches like no other has been created before.
On the 10th day, Fish made fun of me for looking grumpy in the line.
On the 11th day, I bowed before Fish and joined in saying a prayer to his God, Marktar: Creator of sandwich and super crispy smoked bacon
On the 12th day, God got pissed because we were praying to another god.
On the 13th day, God tried the Club Elvis and said "Holy shit this IS a good sandwich!"
And the people rejoiced.....Listed in: I wish for a sandwish
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Review from Joe I.
Orlando, FL
So I made my second trip to YDE within a week, yes I'm a fan of the zany food combos, decor, and feel good ambiance. This is a small business that screams, "We love what we do, and you can taste it!"
Chef Fish Morgan, a hippIe by heart, blends bold flavors into fantastic BBQ bliss.
Each time I've come there have been roughly 70 guests dining or waiting in line for their culinary adventure. Tasty sandwiches like the Smokey: Smoked Pineapple, Fried Onions, Crispy Bacon piled on. Big bed of Pullled Pork.
You'll find the pork home smoked but light in flavor until topped with Fish's Yellow Mustard Vinegar BBQ sauce. To me it feels like it's sweetend with a touch of honey, but guaranteed to be deliciously messy. After you lick your fingers clean you'll find a light yellow stain on you hands secretly stating, "I've been to Yellow Dog Eats", to anyone in the know.
Do yourself a favor and go now! -
Review from Candace W.
Windermere, FL
1/1/2012 9 Check-ins Here
I love the classic club and the brownies with cream cream. Everything here is great! I try to go before the lunch crowd, it can get chaotic. Great place, great food, great atmosphere! i love this place
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Review from Scott M.
Sudbury, MA
12/31/2011 1 Check-in Here
Beef brisket is out of this world. Get it on the nachos! Can't wait to go back. This is a hidden gem that must be experienced.
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Review from Lauren K.
Windermere, FL
10/25/2011 1 Check-in Here
In a land of tourist traps and chain restaurants, YDE is truly a gem.
This is by far one of my most favorite restaurants in town! The atmosphere is quirky and unique- from the writing on the tables and walls, to pictures of customers' dogs plastered throughout the restaurant, to unique tchotchkes throughout, and its adorable garden area outside, it provides a great setting for a refreshing dining experience. Additionally, upstairs there is a small area for private events which is beautifully decorated, while still maintaining the free-spirited ambiance of the restaurant as a whole.
As cute as it is, the best part is the food! As a Kansas City native, I am very particular about my BBQ, and they do not disappoint! The pork is always very tender, and the citrus BBQ sauce is perfect. My favorites are the Florida Cracker, which features their amazing homemade pickles, and the Mr. Smokey, which has pineapple that really brings out a unique flavor. When not in the mood for such a heavy meal, I love to get the Puppy Love- the best pb&j sandwich I've had, served with animal crackers! No matter what I choose, I always purchase a small side of their mozzarella and tomato salad to have along with my meal-mmm tasty!
One of my favorite things about this restaurant is their daily specials. These are usually some of the best items, and sometimes run out, so get there early! My absolute favorite mac and cheese in the world is one of their specials, and it's their smoked mac and cheese, and it's out of this world. The only bad thing is that it runs out SO quickly! Each day, they usually have an entree, and a side or a soup on the special menu.
As important at YDE as the food, are the drinks. If anybody loves sangria, it's this girl, and theirs is scrumptious! They also have refreshing pineapple mimosas (yum!), an endless wine selection, and unique brews, with seasonal selections.
Not to be forgotten is the staff! Fish, the owner and chef, and his entire staff are
friendly and welcoming, and make you feel right at home from your first time walking inside. They are the best.
I go to YDE at least a few times a month, and I have never had anything shy of a 5-star experience. It definitely lives up to its rave reviews, and is a must do if you're looking for a unique find that's just slightly off the beaten path! -
Review from Patrick L.
Dallas, TX
10/22/2011 1 Check-in Here
THIS is a MUST VISIT if you are in Orlando.
It's technically not "in Orlando" so it doesn't really come up in the Yelp searches but damn. It is well worth the trip. The "famous"pulled pork sandwich had no description so it was a semi-shot in the dark but I had to try it since I knew I would only be here once.
Oh mannnn it was freaking amazing. It was pulled pork topped with a slice of slightly melted brie topped with pickled jalapenos, drizzled with honey mustard sauce as well as a raspberry sauce. Sounds weird? Well it was good. Damn good. Shit doesn't make sense? Who cares, just ride the culinary adventure that is this sandwich.
Wanna change that up and fill semi-healthy? Get the thin Elvis, and subtract the bun and add Bacon. Doesn't make sense? Again, just go with it, seriously.
This place is one of the best meals I had in Orlando, a bit of a drive but it's in a nicer part of Orlando and well worth it. This place should definitely be on Triple D -
Review from Dina N.
What a cool place! I had heard great things but was never in the area. I finally tried Yellow Dog last night and was not disappointed.
It has such a cool vibe with writing on the tables and walls and pictures of peoples' dogs everywhere. It reminds me of a place you would see on "Diners. Drive-Ins, and Dives" on the Food Network.
I had the Are you Chicken? Salad which was amazing and huge! It consisted of the marinated house wood-smoked chicken atop a bed of goodies such as greens, herbs, and dried fruits and nuts which gave it a nice crunch.
I tried the tomato mozzarella salad which was topped with olive oil and pesto and super yummy. I also had a bite of the famous pulled pork which was great as well.
We had a brownie for dessert which was two chocolate brownies with frosting sandwiched in between. So decadent and good!
Something fun is that they have chickens sitting in the trees out front!
I definitely suggest checking out this place whether in the area or for a special trip. -
Review from Adam P.
Windermere, FL
10/23/2011 1 Check-in Here
Creative food with a creative location. Fish (the owner) is often in the house, but he mainly talks only to the ladies. I love the Mexi Mutt and the Club Elvis.
The bathroom upstairs is always clean as the result of less traffic.
One day some inconsiderate patrons had their dog in the store that almost resulted in me leaving, but considering that's against Florida Law, I'll look over it and hope that doesn't happen again. -
Review from Jackie S.
Winter Park, FL
1/24/2012
Went to Yellow Dog this past Saturday and had their ribs for the first time. The mustard sauce that comes with is delicious. This is definitely a place I would frequent if it weren't so out of the way.
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Review from Desiree W.
Orlando, FL
11/27/2011
So cute and quaint! It's hidden in Gotha ( where is that, right?) but it is definitely worth finding! The chicken curry sandwich is amazing!
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Review from prof J.
Orlando, FL
12/10/2011 1 Check-in Here
Food was good. We had the yellow dog club and the fire pig... And probably the biggest cookie sandwich I ever had. Good but real sweet. Good job YDE. if we're ever in the area again, we'd try somethin else on the menu.
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Review from Martin G.
Boston, MA
12/2/2011 1 Check-in Here
This is one of the best finds I've had, thank you Trip Advisor and Yelp! What a great, delicious and unique place. It's worth the trip even if you don't live anywhere close to it. Trust me, just try it. Everything is homemade and tastes amazing!
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Review from Traveler F.
Orlando, FL
Updated - 7/18/2011
I can't say enough great things about this place. My previous post outlined the whole shabang. But I did not eat everything.....yet.
Now that I know the lay of the land, I pulled into the left side of the building and parked in the back, exiting on the right side. Walked in through the back door, remember door opens inward, caution to restroom exiting traffic. Figured out what I was going to order and placed the entire order all at the same time.
Johnny Rocket Sandwich-Honey Roasted turkey, raspberry Melba, mild sherry ring peppers, local tomatoes, smoked Gouda cheese, orange-cointreau mayo, leaf lettuce on multi grain bread. Sweet, Smoky, Blissful. A marvelously sculpted plateau of goodness. Mr. Smokey Sandwich-Pulled pork with pineapple, fried onions, crispy bacon, and heavenly honey citrus BBQ sauce on soft bun. Juicy Heaven. They had me at pulled pork, pineapple and BBQ sauce. A mountain of bliss. Sponge cake topped with coconut flakes and cream. Melts in your mouth.
Sweet Ass, Sweet Shiraz, Australia. Delightful sweet but not syrupy, blends well with sweet BBQ sauce.
Yellow Dog Eats continue to amaze in genuine relaxed hospitality and spectacular food.Listed in: Dog Friendly
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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5/7/2011
Nested between the mansions of golf superstars, actors, directors, politicians, business people,… Read more »
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Review from Sharon W.
Yellow Dog Eats is everything (and more!) than what you could imagine when it comes to placing quality ingredients between 2 slices of homemade bread to make the perfect, mouth watering and artistic sandwich.
Located in the city of Gotha inside an old country home (I believe) this place is as warm and inviting as the staff and chef. You'll notice the shelves stocked with homemade sauces made and bottled (or canned) by the chef himself along with some carefully selected bottles of wine. (What a great way to take some of the flavors home with you!) And if you see that the tables are already occupied, don't let that fool you. There is an entire section upstairs for you to sit and enjoy your meal! (Woot Woot!!)
Looking through the menu, items that capture your attention are things such as smoked pineapple, raspberry melba, orange-cointreau mayo and cherry ring peppers, but don't stop there...keep reading! Each sandwich is carefully crafted and helps you visually see the layers of flavor you are about to enjoy.
And, if you've come to a point where you are undecided, you should always go for the chef's special of the day. (I definitely did!)
I enjoyed the Georgia Peach Sandwich which had tender, juicy, succulent pulled pork piled onto a firm bun sturdy enough to hold onto the pork, peach sauce, crumbled blue cheese, red onions and peaches. The sweet and salty danced around my palate playfully while I tried to maintain my composure in front of my lunching buddy. Thankfully, they appreciate my passion for food. :)
The mozzarella and cherry tomato salad was fresh, tangy and sweet just as you would come to expect.
Lastly, (but not least) were the AMAZING roasted potatoes. Tender, soft with a mild smoky flavor seasoned and balanced with onions and green peppers - it honestly had my eyes rolling up and looking to the sky with complete appreciation, along with me slowly melting into my chair as if I had finally found the BEST potatoes....EVER. Period. Ever. Double Period.
I reserve my 5 star ratings for those who have captured the exact essence of how food should be prepared and enjoyed and folks, this is by far my new favorite sandwich place in Orlando and all of the land!
On a couple of side notes, I seriously appreciated the pricing on the menu with such high-quality ingredients. The chef really does bring creativity to his menu and offers it for anyone to enjoy. I wish more chefs would be as down to earth about their passion and creations as Chef Fish. And, if you'd like, bring in a pic of your pup! So many people have shared their pics which gives this place such a friendly feel. LOVE it!!
Oh, and before I forget, vegetarian friendly options are also available. :) -
Review from K L.
Orlando, FL
11/10/2011
I had been hearing about this place for a while, and had yet to make the trip from my downtown bubble... wow, am I glad I did. After countless u-turns and curse words at my iphone's gps, we arrived at this place I shall now refer to as Heaven. My first thoughts were A) where the &#*$ are we? B) is this someone's house? and C) did I just get teleported to a hippie mountain town??? The first thing I see is a sign which read "hippies use back door." This looked like a place you would see in Asheville, NC or another cute mountain town... not the tourist trap that is Orlando. This immediately brought a huge smile to my face. There is outdoor seating in their backyard garden area.. complete with adorable knick knacks, flowers, colorful ceramics, oh I just LOVED it. Ok, enough gushing about the place and onto the food.
THE FOOD. ohhhhh the food. Even though the place itself was ridiculously cute, they could have served their food on the exit ramp of I-4 and I would still have no complaints. We started off with the oven roasted potato salad which was the only thing I wasn't thrilled about. It was served cold, with not a lot of flavor.. We then decided to try the tomato and mozzarella one which was SO MUCH BETTER. Marinated in olive oil and spices, the mozzarella was fresh and so creamy and just a delight.
Since I am always indecisive, the bf and I split the Blue Suede Shoes- (bbq pork, bleu cheese, bacon, scallions and red onion) and the Mr. Smokey- (bbq pork with a smoked pineapple, fried onions, crisp bacon)
The BSS- delish.. everything about it was just top notch. However, the Mr. Smokey was so insanely good that the BSS got pushed out of the way. Can we talk about the bacon for a minute??? They smoke it on the premises. I know a lot of places advertise "crispy" bacon because I mean really, soggy bacon is like someone stealing your parking spot.. just wrong. Well this is NO joke. It was the best bacon I've ever had. Even after sitting on the sandwich with a juicy pineapple, it didn't lose one bit of its crispiness. WOW, defying the laws of science. The bbq sauce is yellow which makes me believe that its a mustard based, but still perfectly sweet...they even sell it by the bottle.
Just go here. You can complain about the drive on the way there but when you leave, you're going to have a hard time wiping the grin off your face. -
Review from Robin W.
11/12/2011 1 Check-in Here
The salmon salad was healthy and delicious. I didn't have room for dessert, but they all looked great in the display counter.
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Review from Trey J.
Austin, TX
7/2/2011
For the longest time I didn't know the pulled pork part of the Yellow Dog menu existed. No fault of theirs, somehow I just skimmed over it while looking online. If I had known what Yellow Dog was doing with the pulled pork sandwich, this place would have had my business about 10 times over by now.
There were way too many delicious sounding sandwiches to choose from. Most sandwiches come with coleslaw and chips for around $8-10. I sat there for quite awhile with menu anxiety, stuck in a deadlock with the cashier. To move things along and to ensure that I didn't hover over the menu flipping it back and forth until they closed, we ordered something that we would both eat. I ordered the Rufus, which is pulled pork topped with thick slices of brie, cherry peppers, and a rasberry melba. My fiance went with the Club Elvis, topped with bacon, fried onions, and gouda.
The Rufus was really good, I mean like devoured it good. This wasn't a sandwich where you could pick out individual flavors, they all kind of meld together. The sweet melba melds with the bbq, the bbq melds with the pork, the pork melds with the salty and creamy cheese...it has tons of flavor, just no specific flavors that come out. Some might not like their sandwiches this way, which I completely understand. Some people like tons of taste all rolled in one, and some like dishes that lead you towards "palette surprises". Well the Club Elvis did what The Rufus didn't, and the flavors were a little more separated. Both were delicious, just depends on how you like your flavors.
The pork is nice and tender, not too mushy and not too dry, with a yellow bbq sauce. I honestly don't know what type of BBQ sauce it was, nor will I attempt to guess, but I know it was good. The side slaw had very little mayo at all, which makes for a lighter side and worth throwing on your sandwich.
Yellow Dog has an "old country store" theme to it, which since it's what used to be an actual old country store, why not run with it. To match, they sell different types of their BBQ sauce in bottles, along with salsas (Blackberry!) and jams. Really worth the drive, and I'll be back for sure. -
Review from Micah S.
Ocoee, FL
9/1/2011 1 Check-in Here
Yellow Dog Eats is the place you wish you had found long before now. Friendly staff, excellent food and an eclectic atmosphere make Yellow Dog one of the Orlando Areas best of the beaten path restaurants. The uniquely blended flavors result in some of the best BBQ creations anywhere. It ain't your grandma's pulled pork sandwich, but you just might find yourself drooling like a Hound Dog over some Blue Suede shoes. (that line will be funnier after you read the menu - trust me!)
Yellow Dog Eats gets my vote for best sandwich in Orlando. -
Review from Ankur L.
Miami, FL
11/26/2011 1 Check-in Here
One of my favorite restaurants in the world. Owner is a super cool guy and talks to everyone. Makes you feel right at home and the food couldnt be better. Strongly recommend this place.
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Review from susan p.
Macungie, PA
11/21/2011 2 Check-ins Here
This place is awesome! The menu is diverse and ingredients always fresh. The cakes are fabulous! The atmosphere is very casual and friendly. It's a definite every time I'm in the Orlando vicinity!
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Review from Janene H.
Eat here and leave stuffed with BBQ goodness! The food was nearly awesome, the service "Meh". Let's start with the decor... I love the look of the place. It looks like a renovated home that is eclectic and cluttered inside. Not only does dog art adorn the walls but also photos of diner's pups and diner's graffiti. My favorite place to dine is out back in the garden. We ate here on the first cool day of the season and it was lovely. There is lots of shade and mist fans blowing. We grabbed one of the cement tables on the deck. You feel like you are in the country!
What let us down here was service. The only employee we saw was the girl working the cash register. She wasn't very helpful when obviously it was our first time and we were a little lost. She wasn't very friendly or organized. In fact, we thought she was probably stoned. She acted like it anyway! When she was dishing me a piece of the the amazing orangesicle cake another costumer asked, "Ooo, what is THAT?" to which the girl barked, "Don't order it!" She then softened her tone and said, "Just kidding, it's our orangesicle cake". She was having problems getting the super moist cake on my plate and didn't want to have to do it for someone else!
The food was ALMOST amazing. I love the creative sandwich combinations you can chose from. Based on other Yelp reviews we ordered a Mr. Smokey for me and a Rufus for my husband. These sandwiches are HUGE! I ate at 3pm and was not hungry the rest of the day. The flavors melded wonderfully together but the pork itself has some dry and charred parts. Too bad. The potatoes were not all they were cracked up to be and all of it was a little spicy. I actually preferred the slaw, which was spicy too. Yes, I'm wimp. I don't do spicy but have been trying to work up from mild to medium. So, although it was slightly spicy I could tolerate it. Desserts were wonderful- don't overlook the case just past the counter. The favorite was the orangesicle cake- moist and heavenly. Oh, so good! The cookie sandwich was OK- the flavor was right but the cookie a little too crunchy for my taste. The filling was not buttercream as the counter girl had said but was actually cream cheese icing. It was delicious.
Overall we like Yellow Dog Eats and would come back. This is the kind of place you'd want to bring out of town guests to showcase a good, local dining establishment. -
Review from Erin M.
San Diego, CA
7/9/2011
Let's just say I flew back to San Diego with two bottles of yellow dog sauce in my suitcase.
I must admit, I primarily tried this place because I was on vacation in Orlando, missed my own yellow dog, who we call Yellow Dog, at home, and thought the drive our of touristville sounded awesome. I ate here twice in a week and brought the sauce home. I had The Rufus, a cupcake, and later a peanut butter sandwich whose name I forgot. All were delicious. The prices were in line with what I would expect, and the taste made that a fantastic deal. I devoured my pulled pork sandwich, and the rest of my group felt equally delighted. The atmosphere is hard to describe but exactly what I had hoped for, and the staff were all really friendly and helpful.
I'll be back, YDE. -
Review from Dan S.
Gainesville, FL
11/16/2011 1 Check-in Here
We drive several miles out of our way, off the Turnpike, to hit this place every time we are driving thru Orlando. It looks close on the map, but there's quite a few turns and miles of residential roads to get here. But yeah, totally worth it. The owner (at least I presume he is) is absolutely in love with his job, and that makes all the difference. Constantly smiling, joking with customers, and the best all-around attitude of any business owner I can remember encountering. The sandwich selections are just incredible - unique approaches to condiments and blends of meats and veggies. Nice selection of beer (but bottled only - bummer), and yummy desserts. The outdoor dining area is artsy, rustic, and fun. Inside is a bit crowded, but very charming. All the other reviews do it justice - there's a reason (or rather, a bunch of reasons) this place is #1 in the area. Just go.
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Review from N B.
Orlando, FL
5/22/2011
I've been asking friends about their favorite local restaurants and Yellow Dog Eats was one of them... And I'm glad about it. Started with the mozzarella, tomatoes and basil as apps and it was very good... Then I wanted to try one of the yellow dog favorites so I got the Famous pulled pork sandwich, it was as messy messy! and delicious get ready to grab a couple of napkins for it...
The thing a liked the most about this place was the outside seating, they only have like 6 tables or so but it's so beautiful, full off trees and dog friendly, so that's a plus for me these days! -
Review from Sarah T.
Centreville, VA
8/25/2011
I love this place! It is now the only entry on my "must-eat-here-list" for Orlando.
I ordered The Rufus and the Boy ordered The Downward Dog and the chicken tortilla soup; we shared the food. Everything was incredibly delicious, like rock-your-face-off awesome. And the prices were quite reasonable.
I just wish I lived closer.
UPDATE (Dec 2011): We finally returned, and this time I ordered the "Black Lab's Lunch", a vegetarian option. It was delicious. My husband ordered The Downward Dog again, and it was still delicious.
The restaurant was way more crowded on this visit; we went at ~ 1:50 pm on Mon Dec 19th. The parking lots in front of and behind YDE were full (TIP: there is a public parking lot across the road). My hubby waited in the car while I went in to order.
The line stretched all the way to the back of the store and it seemed that most people in line were newb tourists loudly discussing what to order. The line moved fairly quickly; we got our order to go since all tables (downstairs, upstairs, and out back) were full. -
Review from George N.
10/9/2011
I'm from LA, and adventurous when it comes to food. During a one month stay in Orlando, I tried at least 25 different restaurants, and this was by far my favorite. You wouldn't expect such delicious eats to come from a quiet, unassuming place hidden away in a rural area secluded by trees that's off the beaten path, but herein you'll find the best pulled pork sandwich you'll ever eat. The homemade sauce also packs quite a kick and is worth buying a bottle to take home.
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Review from Mimi G.
4/2/2011 2 Check-ins Here
Can't believe I have never reviewed Yellow Dog before - so I have to give my two cents worth and here it is ... WE LOVE YELLOW DOG! This is such a hidden gem and the kind of place that ticks all the boxes for us.
First of all the owner/chef Fish is a fun guy - always bringing his energy to the party. He is obviously a person who loves what he does and his enthusiasm is contagious. He brings that same energy and sense of whimsy to his menu and it shows in the quality of the food that comes out. This is not your run of the mill BBQ joint. This visit I had a "Mr Smokey" which was a pulled pork sandwich piled high on a soft bun along with smoked pineapple, bacon, fried onions and a wonderful BBQ sauce. It is everything I want in a sandwich, layers of flavor and texture. Tender, juicy, flavorful porky goodness, sweet pineapple, crispy onions, smoky bacon all enveloped in a tangy, sweet, lick every bit off your fingers sauce. The cole slaw side has a surprisingly spicy kick that keeps the flavor party rocking.
As much as his food is a feast for your senses - so is the restaurant space itself. Eclectic and welcoming, every place you look there is something to enjoy - the walls are adorned with pictures of dogs and the patio space is one of our favorite outside venus around. Surrounded by trees, and mosaics and plants and interesting garden knick knacks. And of course it's dog friendly out there which makes it all the better as far as we're concerned.
Yellow Dog is the perfect confluence of experiences on a crystal clear spring day - there's nothing better than sitting outside on their patio in a great setting, enjoying some rocking 'que stealing some doggie kisses from the boxer at the next table along the way. -
Review from Steve A.
Orlando, FL
5/9/2011
This is a wonderfully funky hangout that the locals fill every day at lunch for the best sandwiches you can get in Central Florida--and perhaps anywhere.
The pulled pork is a favorite, but nothing here is that simple. Add applewood smoked bacon, a hint of raspberry sauce, some of the house-made and bottled mustard BBQ sauces... superb.
But my personal favorite is the Kitty Cat Nap salad, Organic greens, raspberry vinaigrette, and the most amazing heap of exotic tuna--filled with craisins, nuts, and Chinese five spice.
Owner Fish Morgan circulates and makes everyone feel at home. Well, at home with a wacky brother, anyway!
Parking is behind the place through a narrow drive on the left, or across the street. Eat out back, in the charming patio.
Yellow Dog is hard to find, but packed every day. That says it all. -
Review from Rhea P.
3/6/2011
I grew up in a small family. . .I was the only child in the house. I've always wondered what it would feel like to live in a house full of people.
When I entered YDE, I found out what it might feel like to live in a house full of people. Lots of movement, lots of stuff, and a lot of "I'll get with you in a second."
I found out really quick, if I was going to make it here, I was going to have to figure it out myself.
Not much attention at all, I do not think anyone looked at me while I was being served, simply because the place was packed and it seems there was much to do. However, I feel like I should be at least a part of the reason why you are busy, and felt I could have been served better.
After patiently waiting, I placed my order, I walked around. Loved the wine that supported causes like autism, AIDS, and breast cancer--wondered what the flavors were like . .
Finally got my food. It was a little too tangy for my taste. I ordered the mutt dish with potatoes, no meat. I think I was expecting something that tasted more Latin in flavor.
What I got seemed liked a vinegary potato salad in a burrito. It was a little spicy to my taste, and the flavors were not really combining as I had hoped.
The sauce was overpowering the black beans and cheese, and unfortunately, I tasted nothing but vinegar.
I do believe there is something for me here. Perhaps it will just take another visit. . .and maybe a little guidance.
Or not. . . it's a very real possibility there will be no repeats of Yellow Dog Eats!Listed in: Just don't get it, Windermere
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Review from Brian M.
Los Angeles, CA
10/6/2011
YDE has the best pulled pork sandwich I've ever eaten. They also offer an honest friendly environment to enjoy it. The service is laid back and funny. I was also impressed by the potato salad which blew me away. After ordering a freshly made coconut sandwich cookie the size of a manhole I was told to grab one by a staff member. I felt at home peeling back plastic wrap and hoisting the cookie back to my lair. This has been by far my favorite one of a kind experience here in central Florida.
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Review from Dan P.
Chicago, IL
10/9/2011 1 Check-in Here
Great spot, decor and staff are top notch! best pulled pork I've had in a while... So good in fact, I bought a bottle of Fish's BBQ sauce on my way out. Also try the Mexican Mutt with chicken, the meat is pulled perfectly and the Thai chili sauce adds another dimension of flavor.
