Dining Out in Orlando

Dining Out Where to Start……….

A very small sample of the restaurants in and around Orlando

Villa de Flora

Gaylord Palms

6000 W Osceola Parkway

Kissimmee, FL 34646

Phone: 407-586-0000

An indulgent smorgasbord awaits at this buffet-style restaurant inside the chichi Gaylord Palms Hotel. Villa de Flora lures locals and hotel guests in equal numbers, and is renowned for being one of the best brunch spots in Central Florida.

Offered Sunday only, the six-station brunch buffet is a gourmet spread of carved meats, made-to-order pastas and omelets, fresh seafood and French specialties, like Coq au Vin. The handmade dessert bar is heaven on a turntable, with a spread of baklava, tiramisu, tres leches cake and more. The $28 per person price tag is a bit intimidating, but considering the quality of the food here it's well worth it (kids under four eat for free, and there's a half-price discount for those 12 and under). There's always an endless supply of fresh steamed mussels, coconut shrimp and seafood paella. And, depending on the season, the carving table might feature roast duckling or organic filet mignon. Kid-pleasers include French toast, Belgian waffles, cereals and more. And there's usually a strolling guitarist or violinist to add to the restaurant's tranquil Mediterranean atmosphere.

While brunch is the most popular seating, the restaurant does brisk business for its lunch and dinner buffets, too. Each day of the week is devoted to the cuisine from a specific Mediterranean country. Come on Wednesday for French food, Monday or Friday for Italian specialties like Osso Bucco and Swordfish Parmesan, and indulge in Moroccan couscous and tajines on Thursdays. A flamenco dancer usually performs on Saturday night.

Rainforest Cafe

1800 E Buena Vista Dr
Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830

Phone: 407-827-8500

It's hard to tell who's having more fun, kids or their parents, at this Amazon-themed restaurant at Downtown Disney. 'Smoke' billows from a looming volcano, jungle-sized butterflies flap their wings, and thunder rumbles in the distance to announce an impending downpour in the faux-rainforest surrounds. Waits can be long, especially during the high tourist season, but there's plenty to entertain the children as you wander the premises ogling the animatronic wildlife while waiting for your table.

Despite the tropical names on the menu, the fare is pretty much standard American. The Coastal Calamari, for example, is the classic preparation -- breaded, with marinara sauce. And the Volcanic Cobb Salad features all the usual ingredients (blue cheese, bacon, etc.) despite the fancy moniker. There's a range of good seafood dishes, including crab cake sandwiches, shrimp embrochette and fish 'n chips. And you'll never go wrong with a hearty burger or pizza. Portions are large, and kids are best off snagging some food off your plate or ordering from the kids menu, which features cheese sticks, grilled cheese sandwiches and other basic favorites. For something different, inquire about the guided safari -- a kid-friendly excursion through the restaurant's surrounds that's both educational and entertaining.

Café Tu Tu Tango
8625 International Drive
Orlando, FL 32819

Phone: 407-248-2222

As far as chain restaurants go this eclectic tapas eatery is about as as out-of-the-box as it gets. On any given night, local artists can be found creating spontaneous paintings at easels erected between tables, and roving musicians add European flair to the atmosphere. The food is inspired by the best global cuisines -- Thai, Cajun, Mexican, to name a few -- but the manner of dining is decidedly Spanish. Imagine you're in Madrid and order a round of brochettes, dips and flatbreads and a pitcher of sangria to share with friends -- the communal style of eating here makes Tu Tu Tango the perfect place to celebrate a birthday or anniversary with a group, and the food is definitely festive. The convivial atmosphere welcomes families, and kids love the chance to design their own pizzas at the table and send them off to the oven to be baked.

Tasty tapas include the blue cheese-stuffed mushrooms, grilled hoisin chicken wings and kim chee glazed ribs. The Mango Duck Quesadilla is filled with fresh Manchego cheese and served with cilantro cream and mango salsa. And build-your-own pizzas, perfect for sharing, come with gourmet toppings like goat cheese and sun-dried tomatoes. Signature cocktails, with names like Matisse Margarita and Picasso Punch, are strong and artfully presented. Homemade sangria is a highlight, and the 'masterpiece martinis' go far beyond the standard up with an olive version. And you'll never go wrong ordering a few plates of guava cheesecake and almond flan to share with your table for a sweet ending.

House of Blues

1490 E. Buena Vista Dr.
Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830

407.934.BLUE

Take your place in front of the stage where legends are made and you won't be able to stop dancing at this total dining, shopping and entertainment experience! Enjoy world-famous performers, live and in person, as well as the best up-and-coming talent from around the region. Tasty eats complement the eclectic beats, which range from the rowdiest rock 'n' roll to the most reverent Sunday Gospel Brunch, R&B, Latin, reggae, hip-hop and, of course, the blues. Praise the Lord and pass the biscuits! Come to the House of Blues and experience our popular Sunday Gospel Brunch

Bahama Breeze

Tel: 407 938 9010

8735 Vineland Ave and on International Drive

The greatest culinary crossroads in the world with all the bold unique flavors of the Caribbean. Great fun, great drinks try their Bahama Rita.

Carrabba’s Italian Grill

Tel: 407 390 9600

Hwy 192 In Formosa Garden’s Plaza

At Carrabba’s we bring you the same wonderful experiences we grew upon: from our warm Italian hospitality; to the authentic aromas in our open kitchen; to our flavorful handmade recipes passed down for 4 generations. Try the Chicken Bryan - awsome

The Outback

Tel: 407 396 0017

Hwy 192 In Formosa Garden’s Plaza

We like to describe our menu as “full flavored” and are proud of the fact that Outback really defines the word quality with our food. A restaurant with an Australian’ theme Try their “Blooming Onion”.

Pebbles

Tel: 407 827 1111

12551 SR 535 Lake Buena Vista (In Crossroads)

A garden atmosphere characterizes the space and befits the fresh ingredients that comprise each entree. Angel-hair pasta with smoked duck and scallops is hot and flavorful, and burgers, topped with savory cheeses, are also a good bet. Mediterranean pasta offers a refreshing alternative to other entrees

Red Lobster

(321) 677-0191

7780 W. Irlo Bronson Mem Hwy (192) Tel:

Whether its lobster, crab legs, or catch of the day, seafood is made for sharing. And Red Lobster is the place to do it. It's the kind of place where you can talk with your mouth full, eat with your hands, and laugh a little too loud.

P.F.Changs

(407) 345-2888

Mall at Milleni, 4200 Conroy Road, Orlando, FL 32839

Fresh, contemporary and consistently outstanding are the trademarks of P.F. Chang's China Bistro. Founded in 1993, P.F. Chang's is a restaurant that has been embraced by diners across the country.

The P.F. Chang's experience is a unique combination of Chinese cuisine, attentive service, wine, and tempting desserts all served in a stylish, high-energy bistro.

Moon Fish

7525 West Sand Lake Road
Orlando, FL 32819

407-363-7262 phone

One of Orlando's most innovative restaurants. MoonFish serves the Freshest Seafood from the Oceans of Planet Earth™ - from the usual to the exotic. In addition to its fish-fusion cuisine, MoonFish offers Prime and Choice mid-western aged steaks cooked over a natural wood-burning pit and an intriguing sushi menu. The vibrant atmosphere combines modern ingenuity with a Pacific flair to stimulate your senses.

Christini's

http://www.christinis.com/

"With more than 45 years of distinctive culinary experience, I am convinced that success comes down to this: One restaurant, in one location, serving the highest quality cuisine, the best service, and a friendly atmosphere in which to enjoy it ..... this is a lesson learned during my career with some of the most prestigious hotels and restaurants in the world."

"My whole purpose is to make Christini’s your favorite dining destination in Central Florida." The experience of opening 19 restaurants and hotels has earned him significant recognition in the restaurant business. In 1984, Mr. Christini created his privately owned venture, Christini's Ristorante Italiano, where he personally oversees all aspects of operation with his daughters Elli and Caty. Christini's impeccable reputation has drawn celebrities and dignitaries from all over the world.

"It is my pleasure to present to you the culmination of a lifelong dream."

Buon Appetito Chris Christini

The Capital Grille

http://www.capitalgrille.com/

We want The Capital Grille to be “your place.” The spot you most want to come to, whether for a special occasion or just the perfect dinner out. Of course, we strive to make every occasion special here. We start with the food. Dry aged steaks that have earned high praise from the nation’s toughest food critics. An award-winning wine list. Mouth-watering appeti-
zers, fresh seafood, chops. Irresistible desserts.

Then we match the food with out-of-this-world service and a comfortable, relaxed ambiance that’s a world away from the routine. No wonder The Capital Grille isn’t just the place to be seen. It’s the place to be seen having a fabulous time.

As a dinner-only restaurant, Stonewood is a warm, comfortable, inviting place where guests are provided an exceptional dining experience. The flavor of hand-cut steaks, market fresh seafood cooked over an oak burning grill further enhances the dining experience. The restaurant features an ample wine selection with more than 30 wines available by the glass.

Bongos Cuban Cafe

Disney Downtown

Intrnational superstars Gloria and Emilio Estefan introduce BONGOS CUBAN CAFÉ a unique blend of authentic Cuban cuisine and la cultura of Old Havana, presented in a setting that unites the tropical deco architectural design with the sizzle of South Beach glamour. This 550-seat family dining and entertainment experience debuted in late 1997 at Downtown Disney

Visitors from the entire world are making Bongos Cuban Café their favorite establishment to enjoy the rich and delicious Cuban culture and heritage. Make sure you visit Bongos Cuban Café at Downtown Disney West Side at the Walt Disney World Resort. Daily hours are from 11 AM to 2 AM / 7 days a week.

Emerils Tchoup Chop

Phone: 407-503-2467

6300 Hollywood Way
Orlando, FL 32819

Open for lunch and dinner, Chef Emeril Lagasse's new restaurant takes Asian cuisine and "kicks it up a notch" with his unique style. Tchoup Chop (pronounced chop-chop) has a gorgeous "tiki bar" decor complete with bamboo, waterfalls, sculpted gardens and giant woks in full view. The name is meant to offer a hint of New Orleans' famous Tchoupitoulas Street, where Emeril's parent restaurant is located.

The menu focuses on the islands of the Pacific, borrowing flavors from Asia and Europe. Favorite main dishes include Kona coffee-glazed duck breast served with duck and vegetable chow mein, Kahlua slow-roasted pork and noodle saute and banana leaf-steamed fish with chile-onion salsa and a sake-soy glaze. The restaurant also features specialty drinks (try the Pago Pago, tropical mint-flavored rum with lime juice and fresh mint leaves) and a tea menu. It's a journey for the palate.

The Venetian Room

8101 World Center Dr
Orlando, FL 32821

Phone: 407-238-8060

Join us Tuesday through Saturday evenings,
6 p.m. until 10 p.m. Reservations recommended, jackets suggested.

When you're out to impress -- or spoil yourself silly -- it's well worth the trek to the outskirts of tourist country in South Orlando to visit one of Central Florida's most renowned restaurants. The Venetian Room's head chef -- Khalid Benghallen, who trained in Europe and North Africa -- got his feet wet in Florida at such respected restaurants as Emeril's and Shula's. The menu he has created here is rich in European inspiration, yet so creatively rendered that it's truly an intercontinental original.

Foie gras with smoked corn polenta is an indulgent starter, and well balanced with a bowl of the tarragon scented Vidalia onion soup. Entree selections feature everything you'd expect at a restaurant of this caliber, from lobster and veal chops to rack of lamb, duck and beef tenderloin. The Maine lobster is finished with a Cognac glaze and accompanied with hazelnut pheasant sausage and saffron risotto. A departure for ordinary poultry dishes, the farm-raised roasted squab comes with a rich mushroom pudding. And the confit of duck features a pastry tartlet filled with guava choucroute and rare slices of duck breast. Dine under the restaurant's copper clad dome in high-class surrounds -- golden chandeliers cast an elegant glow, and if you're celebrating a special occasion (perhaps popping the question, guys?) the secluded banquettes, partially enclosed by etched glass dividers, are tres romantic.

Cracker Barrel http://www.crackerbarrel.com/

The Cracker Barrel chain serves traditional Southern comfort food. Their outlets have traditionally been located along interstate highways, though the company policy on this appears to be changing. Breakfast is served all day, though the breakfast menu is kept separate from the one for lunch and dinner.

The outer porch of a Cracker Barrel store has rows of rocking chairs for guests to enjoy before or after eating, and there is usually a fireplace and a checkers table within the dining area for an added country feel. The interior walls of the dining area are decorated with antiques such as photographs, advertisements, and household items. The retail store carries mainly nostalgic merchandise, collectibles, housewares, crafts, toys, classic candies, and items used in making Cracker Barrel entrees.

Smokey Bones Barbeque & Grill

With a legend dating to when an iron worker named Duke hand-built a smoker from Rocky Mountain pipeline, Smokey combines barbecue with a rustic, mountain lodge decor. Signature sauce adds zing to ribs and pulled pork, slow smoked over hickory for 12 hour.

Address: 2911 Vineland Road
Kissimmee, FL 34746
Telephone: 407-397-7102