(Above) The menu contains a steady stream of classics with the addition of some weekly specials. Their Monday special is Philly-cheese steak. Tuesday is mahi-mahi. Wednesday is lobster roll. Thursday serves Mahi BLT, and Friday’s special is tacos. Their everyday items include french dip, flatbreads, burgers, and more. Photo by Sarah Finfrock.
Sarah Finfrock, Copy Editor/ Director of Photography October 12, 2022
The oldest restaurant in Orlando remains a hidden gem tucked away on the North edge of College Park. Filled with a steady crowd of regulars, the Tap Room at Dubsdread has served the classics with an essence of charm for almost 100 years. In 1924, Carl Dann saw a market in the Central Florida community for affordable golfing and dining. He opened the golf club to customers without a membership fee unlike existing country clubs in the area. The course’s name comes from the slang term, “Dubbers” for poor golfers and, “Dread” for the course’s difficulty. During World War II, over 100,000 servicemen were stationed in the area. Many frequented the club, contributing to its popularity and stamp on the Orlando market. The Tap Room offers fine dining for golfers and non-golfers alike between holes nine and ten. It is also a popular venue for weddings, parties, and family reunions.
(Above) Dubsdread is a popular spot for Instagram photos due to its aesthetic outdoor area. Behind the main dining area, they have outdoor tables and an outdoor patio. This area is popular for large social gatherings, like birthdays, family reunions, and small weddings. Larger weddings are typically held in their banquet hall. Photo courtesy of Mrs. Michelle Kutschinski. (Photo courtesy of Mrs. Michelle Kutschinski.)
(Above) The Tap Room at Dubsdread is accoladed with numerous prestigious awards. Open Table named it in the, “Top 25 Hidden Gems in the World.” The Orlando Sentinel gave it the, “Foodie Award,” and, “Best Outdoor Dining.” Orlando Magazine awarded it the distinction, “Best Burger,” and, “Best Power Lunch.” Photo by Sarah Finfrock. (Photo by Sarah Finfrock.)(Above) The interior of the restaurant highlights its extensive history. Its architecture consists of mostly wood and sticks to a classic theme. The lighting is subtle, adding to its cozy and homey feel. The wait staff dress in all black, but don’t have a specific uniform. Lately, they have been hiring high school students, including some from Lake Highland. Photo by Sarah Finfrock. (Photo by Sarah Finfrock.)(Above) The menu contains a steady stream of classics with the addition of some weekly specials. Their Monday special is Philly-cheese steak. Tuesday is mahi-mahi. Wednesday is lobster roll. Thursday serves Mahi BLT, and Friday’s special is tacos. Their everyday items include french dip, flatbreads, burgers, and more. Photo by Sarah Finfrock. (Photo by Sarah Finfrock.)(Above) A large portion of Dubsdread’s profits come from their events and catering. Many Lake Highland sports teams have hosted end-of-season banquets at the restaurant, including tennis and soccer. Laura Finfrock hosted her rehearsal dinner at the restaurant for her 2002 wedding. She said of the night, “The venue was perfect for a small group to have a relaxing end-of-night celebration.” Ten years later and the venue is still quite popular in the Orlando wedding scene. For catering, contact the restaurant at 407-650-9558. For general questions, call 407-650-0100. Photo by Sarah Finfrock.(Right) Dubsdread is most popular for its 9-hole golf course. They offer adult group programs, private lessons, and a junior academy. Their junior academy is named Operation 36 with the goal of helping players hit a par 36 on their 9-holes. The academy costs between $260 and $500 a month depending on frequency and intensity. The first semester runs September through November, and the second runs from January to May. There is also a women’s adults league where women from across Central Florida can bond over the game of golf. The course also hosts a variety of tournaments. Photo by Sarah Finfrock. (Photo by Sarah Finfrock.)
Sarah Finfrock, grade 12, is the Copy Editor and Director of Photography of Lake Highland Preparatory School's Upper School newspaper Twice-Told Tale, and...
