Tis Me Michelle

This is a spot I took my parents to once, and now we go every time they come to visit. It’s a completely vegetarian Indian restaurant. I didn’t know there were two locations until I was researching for this post. I’ve only been to the location on OBT – Orange Blossom Trail, for non-Orlandonians… Orlandonites?

I also found that the restaurant showcases flavors from Udupi, which is on the southwest coast of India. My family is even further down, pretty much all the way on the southwest side of India, in Kerala. Makes sense why my family digs it so much. We aren’t vegetarians, but there are some familiar options. And aside from one deviation, we have the same order every time we go.

The Vibe: A very relaxed, almost diner-like feel. They’ve definitely had a renovation since I started coming here, but it’s still the same vibe. Great spot for families to get together. For the most part, we’ve never had issues getting a spot, but weekends can definitely get busy.

The Food: 99.8% of the time, my dad orders a paper masala dosa, my and I go with the chana batura. The paper masala dosa is a gigantic, extra thin dosa filled with the usual spiced potato mixture, with a side of sambar and chutney. Chana batura is essentially an extra large poori, aka a large delicious friend bread with a side of chickpea curry. Both excellent choices. Then of course we share. Would recommend both of these options, but come with an empty stomach.

On one random occasion I ordered paneer chili and hakka noodles. Indo-chinese cuisine is popular, but not with my family. My parentals stick to what they know. I recall we were all pleasantly surprised, but have for whatever reason never ordered it again.

We’ve also tried medhu vada, which I love fresh and hot, but otherwise I prefer a parippu vada, which isn’t offered here. For those not familiar, both vadas are made with lentils. Medhu/urdu vada is ground up soaked lentils which when fried up has a pillowy soft with a light crisp exterior. The shape and texture is basically a donut, a mini savory donut. Anyways, we’ve only ordered it once or twice, usually when we have visitors and it’s a nice treat.

Other than that, we’ve had their masala chai. Not bad, but for $4, and considering my parents are in town making it on the daily for me… Usually not worth it. Well, my mom is actually not the best chai maker, but I have plenty of aunties in my life who can make a much better cup.

The Parking: There is a dedicated parking lot at Woodlands. It’s a small little narrow area, but given it’s not a busy period, easy to get a spot! I do recommend paying attention pulling in, because if I don’t pay attention, I could easily drive right by the entrance.

Overall: I tried to take them to Bombay Street Kitchen and they were not impressed. Bombay is much more ‘modern’ feel whereas Woodlands feels much more home-y. I wouldn’t say I’m blown away by the food here or that it’s the best I every had, but Woodlands has become a tradition. We love our staple items. And I’ll keep bringing my parents back here as long as they want.

Rating: 8.4

Address: 6040 S Orange Blossom Trl, Orlando, FL 32809