By Editorial Team · 17 September 2026
Key Takeaways
- Traditional rice horchata is frequently dairy free, but some kitchens add milk, so the recipe is not guaranteed either way.
- El Patron lists horchata under Aguas Frescas on its live menu.
- The menu does not state whether this horchata contains milk, so ask the team before ordering if dairy matters to you.
- You can place an order online or visit the Orlando location at 12167 S Apopka Vineland Rd.
Short Version
Horchata is often dairy free, but not always, and the El Patron menu does not confirm whether milk is used in this drink. If avoiding dairy is important to you, the reliable step is to ask staff before you order.
Is Horchata Usually Dairy Free?
Traditional rice horchata is often made without dairy, yet recipes vary widely, so some kitchens choose to add milk for a creamier, richer texture. That variation is the whole reason a simple yes or no is difficult. Because one restaurant may keep it plant based while another blends in dairy, the safest assumption is that no two horchatas are identical until you confirm.
How Horchata Appears on the El Patron Menu
On the live El Patron menu, horchata is listed under Aguas Frescas and priced at five dollars and fifty cents per serving today. The listing tells you where to find it and what it costs, but a menu line does not spell out every ingredient. In other words, seeing horchata on the Aguas Frescas section confirms availability and price, not the presence or absence of milk.
How to Confirm Whether Milk Is Used
Because the menu does not spell out the full recipe, the surest way to know is to ask the El Patron team directly before ordering. A quick question at the counter, over the phone, or in the notes field when you order online is enough. Staff can tell you how their horchata is prepared, and that direct answer beats any guess based on tradition alone.
Ordering Horchata at El Patron in Orlando
If you would like to try horchata, El Patron sits at 12167 S Apopka Vineland Rd. in Orlando and is open daily for lunch and dinner. You can also reach the team at (407) 238-5300 with any questions about the drink before you visit.
Order horchata online from El Patron
Frequently Asked Questions
Is all horchata dairy free?
No. Many versions are made from rice and are naturally dairy free, but some kitchens add milk. Recipes differ, so it is worth checking each place individually.
Does the El Patron menu say if the horchata has milk?
The live menu lists horchata under Aguas Frescas but does not state whether milk is used. Ask the team to be sure.
How much is horchata at El Patron?
Horchata is on the current El Patron menu, in the Aguas Frescas section.
What is the best way to confirm before ordering?
Ask directly. Call (407) 238-5300, ask at the counter, or leave a note when ordering online so staff can confirm how the horchata is prepared.
References
- El Patron menu: https://www.elpatronorlando.com/menu
- Online ordering: https://www.elpatronorlando.com/online-ordering
- Location: 12167 S Apopka Vineland Rd., Orlando, FL 32836
- Phone: (407) 238-5300
- Hours: Open daily for lunch and dinner