I Keep Visiting The Great Southern Box Company — And You Should Too

Orlando is full of great places to eat, hang, and celebrate — but every now and then, one of those places becomes part of your regular rotation. For me, that’s The Great Southern Box Company Food Hall & Bar.

Located in the heart of The Packing District, this space blends the industrial soul of its citrus-packing roots with modern food culture and a laid-back atmosphere that actually works for families, friend groups, and even professional meetups.

It’s trendy — sure — but not at all pretentious. And whether I’m grabbing wings with my family, sipping a cocktail outdoors, or scouting a future event venue, I keep finding reasons to go back.

Why It Works

• Atmosphere that’s casual and cool
  From reclaimed wood to exposed brick, GSBC strikes a great balance: design-forward but not stuffy. The energy is vibrant but never overwhelming.

• Outdoor space the whole family can enjoy
  The open lawn and covered patios make it a rare Orlando gem where kids can run, adults can relax, and no one feels out of place.

• Food options that please everyone
  Craving Thai? Cuban? Sushi? Jamaican? Empanadas? Burgers? There’s literally something for every craving here — and that’s not an exaggeration.

• Event-ready without being “event-y”
  More on this below — but GSBC offers catering and a bookable event space that’s perfect for weddings, grand anniversaries, milestone birthdays, or corporate gatherings. If you want “celebration vibes” without a ballroom rental, you’ll love what this space can do.

Where to Eat: GSBC’s Current Food & Drink Vendors

Here’s the updated list of restaurants (from their official website) and what you can expect from each:

| Bangkok Style | Street-style Thai cuisine with bold flavors.

| Eighty Twenty | Modern comfort food and one of my favorite spots — the wings are everything.

| A Lo Cubano Kitchen | Cuban comfort classics like ropa vieja bowls and croquetas.

| Antica Pizzeria & Market | Authentic Neapolitan-style pizza with options for gluten-free and vegan diners.

| Koa Sushi & Poke | Sushi and poke bowls with unique fusion twists — try the sushi arepa.

| Kayos Jamaican Grill | Caribbean-style build-your-own boxes — jerk chicken, oxtail, and more.

| Kabab 2 Go | Lebanese and Mediterranean staples like shawarma and hummus.

| Braza Brazilian BBQ | Brazilian-style grilled meats with bold, satisfying plates.

| Fui Yo Mexicana | Elevated Mexican cuisine, empanadas, birria tacos, and more.

| Café Barista | Cozy café for coffee, espresso, and baked goods.

| The Waffle Sandwich Bar | Allergy-friendly waffles turned sandwiches (vegan + GF options available).

And don’t forget 28 Groves, the main bar area that anchors the space with craft cocktails, beer, and non-alcoholic options.

Let’s Talk Events: Why This Spot Deserves a Second Look

If you're planning a celebration and want to break away from the traditional banquet hall vibe, GSBC makes a seriously compelling case:

• Built-in atmosphere: Industrial-modern decor that already photographs beautifully — minimal extra decorating needed.

• Food variety = guest satisfaction: Guests can build their own plate from different vendors — everyone wins.

• Indoor + outdoor flow: Great for cocktail-style events, casual receptions, or family celebrations with space to spread out.

• Bar and catering support available: Their team can assist with staffing, catering packages, and overall event coordination.

• It just feels fun: You’re not tucked away in a backroom or ballroom. You’re in a vibrant, social space that encourages mingling and memory-making.

Perfect for:
✅ Weddings (especially non-traditional receptions)
✅ Birthday & Anniversary celebrations
✅ Brand launches or influencer events
✅ Community mixers
✅ Graduation parties

Things to Know (So You’re Not Surprised)

Even the best places come with quirks. Here’s what you should keep in mind:

• Ordering is counter-style
  This isn’t full-service dining. You’ll order at each vendor individually (some have QR menus), and many text you when food is ready. Great for flexibility, but it can be slower during peak hours.

• Service fee alert
  GSBC applies a flat 8% service fee on top of your order (in addition to tax). It’s not a tip — and it’s worth knowing ahead of time so it doesn’t catch you off guard.

• It gets busy on weekends
  This place is gaining popularity, especially for brunch and evenings. Plan to arrive early if you want your pick of seating — especially outdoors.

• Kid-friendly but not playground-style
  The lawn is great for roaming, but there’s no jungle gym or designated play area. Still, kids are welcome and widely accommodated.

• Parking is usually easy
  There’s a free parking garage directly across from the main entrance. Street parking is also available on quiet days.

The Real Wrap-Up

The Great Southern Box Company isn’t just a cool food hall — it’s a new kind of neighborhood gathering spot. The kind of place where your friends, your kids, your partner, and even your picky cousin can all enjoy something different… together.

Whether you’re going for the wings, the cocktails, or to plan your next big event — The Great Southern Box Company has something for everyone.

Been there already? I’d love to hear what you ordered! Still planning your first trip? Send this to a friend and make it a day out.

And if you're looking for more Orlando spots or thinking about putting down roots near places like this, let's chat. I’m all about helping you find your next favorite spot — whether it's your home or your hangout.