Okay, let's talk Fazoli's. Specifically, the one on East Colonial Drive in Orlando. Now, I know what you might be thinking: "Fazoli's? Seriously? Is that still around?" And to that, I say, with a grin: Absolutely! And here's why you should care, even if it's just a little bit.
Think of Fazoli's as that reliable friend you haven't seen in ages, but when you reconnect, it's like no time has passed at all. You know exactly what to expect, and it's comforting in its familiarity. It's not trying to be the trendy new bistro downtown; it's just good, honest, carbo-licious comfort food at a price that won't make your wallet cry.
A Blast from the Past (and Present!)
Remember those childhood birthday parties where someone's parents would order a mountain of breadsticks from Fazoli's? Or those quick, cheap lunches after a long day of shopping at the mall? Maybe it was a family dinner on a night when nobody felt like cooking. Fazoli's has been a part of a lot of our memories, and the East Colonial location is no different. It's a local landmark, a beacon of pasta and unlimited breadsticks on a busy Orlando street.
Let's be real, in a world of ever-changing restaurants and fleeting food trends, there's something incredibly reassuring about a place that’s stayed true to its roots. It's like your grandma's meatloaf recipe – you know exactly what you're getting, and it's always satisfying.
Why East Colonial Specifically?
You might be thinking, "Okay, Fazoli's is fine, but why this particular one?" Well, I've got a few reasons for you. First off, location, location, location! It's right there on East Colonial, a major thoroughfare in Orlando. Easy to get to, plenty of parking (a major win in Orlando!), and a welcome sight after battling I-4 traffic. Think of it as an oasis of Italian-American goodness.
Secondly, it's a consistently well-maintained restaurant. It's not some run-down relic of the past. The staff is generally friendly and efficient, the dining area is clean, and the food is served hot and fresh. Let's be honest, that's more than you can say for some other fast-casual places these days.
Third, think of it as supporting a local business, even though it's part of a chain. The East Colonial Fazoli's employs people from the Orlando community. It gives people jobs and it contributes to the local economy.
Beyond the Breadsticks: What to Order
Alright, so you're considering giving Fazoli's a try (or a re-try!). What should you order? Obviously, the breadsticks are a must. They're soft, buttery, garlicky, and practically addictive. Pro tip: ask for extra garlic butter sauce for dipping. You won't regret it. Promise.
But don't stop there! The baked ziti is a classic for a reason. It's cheesy, saucy, and perfectly comforting. The spaghetti with meat sauce is another solid choice, especially if you're feeding a family on a budget. And if you're feeling adventurous, try the pizza baked pasta – it's basically a pizza and pasta mashup, and it's surprisingly delicious.
For a lighter option, consider the salad with grilled chicken. It's a decent-sized salad with plenty of toppings and a flavorful dressing. And of course, you can always add a side of breadsticks to your salad. Because, why not?
And don't forget about the desserts! The cheesecake is a simple but satisfying treat, and the brownies are rich and fudgy. Perfect for satisfying that sweet tooth after a big plate of pasta.
Fazoli's: More Than Just a Meal
Look, I'm not saying Fazoli's is going to change your life. It's not a Michelin-starred restaurant, and it's not going to win any culinary awards. But it is a reliable, affordable, and comforting place to grab a quick and tasty meal. It's a place where you can take your family without breaking the bank. It's a place where you can indulge in some guilty-pleasure carbs without feeling too guilty.
Think of it this way: sometimes, you just want a simple, familiar meal that hits the spot. You don't want to deal with complicated menus, pretentious servers, or sky-high prices. You just want some good food, a friendly atmosphere, and a satisfying experience. And that's exactly what Fazoli's on East Colonial Drive offers.
It's a place where you can relax, unwind, and enjoy a meal with friends and family. It's a place where you can reminisce about old times and create new memories. It's a place that's been a part of the Orlando community for years, and hopefully will be for many more years to come.
So next time you're driving down East Colonial and you're feeling hungry, consider stopping by Fazoli's. Grab a plate of pasta, a basket of breadsticks, and a sweet tea. You might just be surprised at how much you enjoy it. It's a little slice of Italian-American comfort food, right here in Orlando.
And hey, if you see me there, come say hi! I'll probably be the one with the extra breadsticks.
Ultimately, Fazoli’s East Colonial is a place to go when you need something reliable and easy. Life throws curveballs; knowing there's a baked ziti and a basket of breadsticks waiting is a small comfort, but a welcome one.
Whether you're a long-time fan or a curious newcomer, the East Colonial Fazoli's has something to offer. It's not about fancy dining; it's about good food, good prices, and good memories. And sometimes, that's all you need. So go on, give it a try. You might just find yourself becoming a regular.