60 Years of Flavor: Orlando’s Italian Restaurant Celebrates a Big Milestone in Lubbock

"O sole mio...with a jalapeno!"

I think almost everyone in Lubbock knows the beginning to the Orlando's jingle... and the ending, too, "a little Italian and a lot of fun!". But you can brush up here if you like:

Many of us have Orlando's to thank for countless celebrations and cherished memories. And if you're me, your parents had their first date at Orlando's, so thank you, Orlando's, for my existence on planet Earth.

A Look Back at Orlando’s 60 Years in Lubbock

Since the closing of Ton & Bingo's BBQ, Orlando's inherited the title of Lubbock's longest-running restaurant still in operation today.

Read More: Lubbock's Tom & Bingo's Calls It Quits After 70 Years Of Operation

In addition to that incredible longevity, Orlando's is unique in Lubbock- and the world. Orlando's has been a fusion restaurant for decades before anyone was using that term- combining Southwest favorites with Italian dishes to create several one-of-a-kind entrees that we all crave. I'm looking at you, Down and Dirty Tortellini, Mafia Queso, Green Chile Chicken Linguine, etc. 

Both locations of Orlando's still supply a fun, old-school Italian restaurant vibe- with checkered tablecloths, friendly staff, and music you can actually hear your date over. The full-service bar can whip up most anything you like, including their specialty drinks- try the Blue Zuni!

What’s Next for Orlando’s After 60 Years

I think Lubbock is hoping for another 60 years of the exact same thing- our special, unique culinary gem that no one else can replicate, but that anyone is welcome to come and enjoy. Just don't forget the rum cake for dessert.