Orlando Restaurants, something for everyone

Since “dining out” ranks as one of the top activities for travelers, the vacation capital of the world has plenty of options—and more than 5000 restaurants. Included is just a sample of the dozens of family, ethnic, specialty and fine dining establishments visitors will find in Orlando. From haute cuisine to the perfect burger, there’s something for every palate and pocketbook.

Exquisit Diner
Gourmet fare is now a way of life in the vacation capital. Celebrations and romantic evenings deserve the perfect venue – some of the finest include Victoria & Albert’s at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, the only AAA five-diamond restaurant in Central Florida; Manuel’s on the 28th in downtown Orlando, with its stunning view of the city; Maison & Jardin, a French find in Altamonte Springs; and The Boheme at downtown’s luxurious Westin Grand Bohemian Hotel.

Celebrity-chef fare shines at Todd English’s bluezoo at the Walt Disney World Dolphin, Norman’s (Norman Van Aken) at The Ritz-Carlton and Primo (Melissa Kelly) at the JW Marriott. And Emeril’s at Universal Orlando Resort has been hot for so long that the popular chef “kicked it up a notch” by adding Emeril’s Tchoup Chop at Universal’s Royal Pacific Resort. On Sand Lake Road, a whole new “restaurant row” tempts visitors with Middle-Eastern flavors at Cedar’s, Euro-Asian creations at Roy’s Orlando and seasonally-inspired fare at Seasons 52.

Critics rave about California Grill atop Disney’s Contemporary Resort (best restaurant fireworks show) and the Flying Fish Café on Disney’s Boardwalk. The most extensive South-African wine list around complements the exotic flavors at Jiko – The Cooking Place at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. For cheeseburgers in paradise, it’s a laid-back stroll along Universal CityWalk to Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville.