A Taste of Europe in Central Florida
If you need a break from mouse ears and turkey legs, take a 35-minute drive north to Winter Park. This charming historic district feels worlds away from the I-Drive corridor, with its brick-lined streets, boutique shops, and Spanish moss canopies. And sitting right in the heart of it all is a hidden gem for oenophiles: The Wine Room on Park Avenue.
How It Works
The Wine Room isn’t a traditional bar. It’s an interactive tasting experience. When you arrive, you purchase a reloadable smart card (starting at $3). You then wander through the rustic, brick-walled space, which is lined with over 150 wines preserved in Enomatic dispensing machines.
Insert your card, choose your pour size (1 oz, 2.5 oz, or 5 oz), and press the button. It’s like an arcade for adults. The 1 oz pour allows you to sample unparalleled wines—think $200 bottles of Napa Cab or rare Italian Barolos—for just a few dollars. It’s a brilliant way to expand your palate without committing to a whole glass or bottle.
The Vibe
The atmosphere is undeniably cool. Housed in a historic building, the space features exposed brick, dark wood, and leather seating. It’s sophisticated yet unpretentious. You’ll see couples on dates, groups of friends sharing a cheese board, and solo travelers enjoying a quiet glass with a book.
The Food
Wine needs cheese, and The Wine Room delivers. Their “Fromage Cave” offers a curated selection of artisanal cheeses and charcuterie from around the world. You can build your own board or order from their small plates menu, which includes flatbreads, dips, and decadent desserts.
Why Go?
It’s the perfect grown-up timeout. After days of overstimulation at the parks, The Wine Room offers a moment of sensory pleasure and control. You drink what you want, at your own pace, in a setting that feels authentic and local. Plus, Winter Park itself is worth the drive. Walk off the wine with a stroll through the Rose Garden or a scenic boat tour of the Chain of Lakes.
Pro Tip: Go on a weekday afternoon to snag better seating, as weekend nights can get crowded with locals.