An Orlando Bar Owner Speaks Out

In this episode, we sit down with longtime Orlando business owner, Matty Bullitt, who’s been shaping the downtown nightlife scene for over 20 years. From his first venture with Bullitt Bar in 2008 to later openings like McQueens Social Lounge, The Basement, Treehouse, The Attic, Papi Smash’d Burger, and Crow & Co. (remodeled and reopened as Sessions in 2024), Terrasi has helped define the downtown entertainment landscape.

We dive into the state of downtown Orlando today, from safety concerns and city policies to the challenges local business owners face in keeping the area vibrant. Matty offers an inside look at what’s working, what’s not, and what needs to change for downtown to thrive again.

This episode is brought to you by The Pozek Group. Thinking of selling or buying a home anywhere in Greater Orlando? We’d love to help! Reach out at https://theorlandoreal.com/real or email [email protected] to get started.

00:00 Introduction
00:51 Tour Downtown
07:11 Why operate in Orlando?
08:11 Concepts Matty and team run
12:16 The current Downtown Orlando Landscape
14:03 Downtown Orlando Safety and costs
23:25 Potential Issue Areas Downtown
26:35 How does Downtown Orlando Improve?
32:16 Business advice from Matty Buillitt