Orlando is a destination for foodies and fun-seekers alike. Whether you crave a dining “experience” or just a delicious escape from hours of talking shop in the convention center, you’re sure to find it in O-Town. Word to the wise: Many places require reservations, so be safe and always call ahead.
ORLANDO ENVIRONS
Victoria & Albert’s
This elegant restaurant needs to be on your to-do list, if you can afford it. Orlando’s only AAA Five Diamond restaurant is based in Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort, and reservations must be made way in advance. Dinner options range from a six-course, two-hour dining experience to a 10-course feast in the kitchen at the Chef’s Table. Winner of Orlando magazine’s 2017 reader poll for “Restaurant You Are Dying to Visit.” Contact: 4401 Floridian Way, Orlando; 407-939-3862; victoria-alberts.com
deep blu seafood grille
As a triple winner of Orlando magazine’s 2017 Dining Awards (Best Restaurant, Chef, Seafood), this place is a gem. Here you’ll find imaginative dishes such as “blu” crab mac ‘n’ cheese and Cocoa Beach snapper with soy butter sauce. Sushi lovers won’t be disappointed either. Located in Wyndham Grand Orlando Resort. Contact: 14651 Chelonia Pkwy., Orlando; (407) 390-2420; deepbluorlando.com
Soco
The name is short for Southern Contemporary — and Zagat calls it “one of the hottest new restaurants in Orlando.” Just take a look at chicken and dumplings Soco style, featuring chicken breast and lobster dumplings, or their take on Korean Fried Chicken. Soco is near Lake Eola. Contact: 629 E. Central Blvd., Orlando; (407) 849-1800; socothorntonpark.com
Artisan’s Table
This downtown Orlando eatery’s fresh menus change daily. Entrées might include meats such as short ribs, chicken, salmon and mussels. The signature cocktails are clever concoctions, as are the desserts. For example, Cloud Carrot Cake consists of carrot cake, carrot-raisin mousse, carrot caramel and whipped cream. Contact: 22 E. Pine St., Orlando, (407) 730-7499; artisanstableorlando.com
Market on South
This is far more than a local produce market. There’s also a plant-based restaurant, bakery and bar. The healthy vegetarian fare includes items such as Nopales Tacos (featuring smoked napoles cactus) and Valhalla Bakery doughnuts so good they’re called “the best vegan doughnuts in town.” Contact: 2603 E South St., Orlando; 407-613-5968; marketonsouth.com
Thai Thani
Want to escape to Thailand for the night? Located close to Sea World, Thai Thani’s peaceful decor of imported antiques and statues, hand-carved tables and tropical plants evoke the atmosphere of Thailand. Some tables are even low to the ground, with guests seated on floor cushions. Enjoy traditional Thai cuisine — the jumbo prawns in chili sauce are a standout, in addition to the various curries and noodle dishes. Also vegetarian friendly. Contact: 11025 International Dr., Suite F, Orlando; 407-239-9733; thaithani.net
Charley’s Steak House
Situated near the new I-360 complex, this 43-year-old, family-owned restaurant serves aged USDA prime steaks flame-broiled in a pit. The menu also includes veal, pork chops, chicken and seafood. The wine cellar boasts 1,000 choices from around the world. Perhaps not surprisingly, Charley’s has garnered Wine Spectator magazine’s Best Award of Excellence and Orlando magazine’s Best Steak House & Best Old Favorite. Contact: 8255 I-Drive, Ste. 100, Orlando; (407) 363-4767; charleyssteakhouse.com
Big Fin Seafood Kitchen
If you have a hankering for seafood, Big Fin will satisfy. The 11,000-square foot restaurant, located in Orlando’s famous Restaurant Row, offers everything from lobster and scallops to alligator and catfish. Also worth noting: Stone crab is in season during the Expo dates. Contact: 8046 Via Dellagio Way, Orlando; 407-615-8888; bigfinseafood.com
CONVENTION CENTER AREA
Tommy Bahama Restaurant & Bar
If an island vibe appeals to you, head for Tommy Bahama Restaurant in Pointe Orlando. Seafood, steak and chicken dishes made the Caribbean or Latin way paired with tropical drinks make it easy to forget you’re here on business. An outdoor deck has large-screen TVs and live music nightly. Contact: 9101 I-Drive, Ste. 1200, Orlando; (321) 281-5888; bahamabreeze.com
Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steak House
Locals flock to this classic steak house, which is a good sign. It serves USDA prime beef and delectable seafood, great side dishes and selections from an extensive wine collection. The phenomenal service and decor take it over the top — and it doesn’t hurt that it’s “a stone’s throw” from the convention center. Contact: 9150 I-Drive, Orlando; (407) 351-5074; delfriscosgrille.com
Itta Bena
The New Orleans facade of this Pointe Orlando eatery is a clear sign that you’re about to enjoy mouth-watering Southern cuisine such as jambalaya. Steak, seafood and decadent desserts round out the offerings — and the piano bar and come-as-you-are dress code create a mellow mood. Contact: 9101 I-Drive, Ste. 2210, Orlando; (407) 757-2910; ittabenadining.com
Adobe Gila’s
A Pointe Orlando favorite, this fresh Mexican grill offers appetizers such as buffalo shrimp and lizard legs. Entrées include fajitas, the pork rib eye platter and the “loaded mac & cheese,” where optional add-ons include shrimp, chorizo and brisket. The impressive drink selection includes a 64-ounce margarita with a take-home mug. Live music keeps things festive. Contact: 9101 I-Drive, Ste. 2200, Orlando; (407) 903-1477; adobegilas.com
Season 52
The Travel Channel declared Season 52 “Orlando’s best local restaurant.” Just two miles from the convention center, this fresh grill and wine bar features dishes inspired by the seasons. By using brick oven roasting and open-fire grilling, it gives meats such as lamb, chicken, short ribs, filet mignon and seafood a distinctive flavor. Wines from around the globe add to the casually sophisticated setting. Contact: 7700 Sand Lake Rd., Orlando; (407) 354-5212; seasons52.com
Lafayette’s
Southern cuisine and live music attract many visitors to this Pointe Orlando restaurant/bar. Plates include gumbo, po’boys, voo doo wings, crawfish pizza and more, plus homemade desserts. Bands range from bluegrass and jazz to country and rock. Contact: 9101 I-Drive, Ste. 2220, Orlando; (407) 930-1655; lafayettes.com/orlando
