Cover Stories

A Taste of Orlando: There's More Here Than Theme-park Grab-and-go.

by Jacqueline V. Ader

There

Think of Orlando, Fla., and visions of Walt Disney World, Universal Studios and Sea World come to mind. What many people don't realize is that Orlando is also home to endless dining options. There's something to suit everyone, from budget-minded families in town to visit theme parks, to business travelers gathering to attend events at the newly expanded Orlando/Orange County Convention Center. A whopping 3.9 million business travelers are expected this year, including those of you planning to attend the National Business Travelers Association convention in August. With that in mind, here's a guide to the wide variety of dining options you'll find in this sunny city.

Flavors Abound

Orlando dining comes in many different flavors, satisfying everyone from international visitors to local residents. Fine dining establishments are many and varied. Most feature signature dishes prepared in a manner unique to the restaurant or its chef. Some of the nation's best-known restaurant chains are represented in Orlando. The corporate headquarters of Darden Restaurants (Olive Garden, Red Lobster, Bahama Breeze and Smokey Bones), Orlando Culinary Institute and test kitchens for Darden Restaurants and Hard Rock Cafe are all based in Orlando. World-class Chefs Emeril Lagasse and Wolfgang Puck are among the famous culinary masters who have selected Orlando to host their signature restaurants.

Around Town

Orlando is divided into several key neighborhoods, including the attractions area, trendy Thornton Park and downtown Orlando. Visitors can find a wide variety of restaurants to satisfy their palates in each area. The restaurants located in downtown Orlando and Thornton Park are trendier and favored by locals. Here's a roundup of some of our favorites.

Walt Disney World

California Grill

Located on the 15th floor of Disney's Contemporary Resort, the California Grill offers a spectacular view of the Magic Kingdom's nightly fireworks display. Chef Clifford Pleau creates seasonal menus focusing on what is fresh and available, including seafood and vegetarian dishes. The California Grill offers impeccable service and continues to be one of Orlando's most popular restaurants. Main courses cost $41 and up. Reservations strongly recommended.

California Grill, 4600 N.World Drive
Orlando, FL 32830, tel 407 824 1576
www.disneyworld.com

Jiko-The Cooking Place

Dine at Disney's newest restaurant, Jiko-The Cooking Place. Overlooking the pool at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge, Jiko's African-themed menu and atmosphere ensure an unforgettable dining experience. Jiko specializes in a delicate mix of African dishes spiced with Eurasian flair. Main courses cost $31 to $40. Reservations strongly recommended.

Jiko-The Cooking Place, 2901 Osceola Parkway
Orlando, FL 32830, tel 407 939 3463
www.disneyworld.com

Flying Fish Café

Flying Fish Café transports you to a 1920s-inspired theme park. Enjoy excellent, high-energy service in a setting featuring a Ferris wheel replica. Watch fish sculptures dangle from the ceiling as you try the Flying Fish Sampler, a selection of snapper with capers in vinaigrette dressing, rock shrimp roll and crab cake. For the main course, indulge in the signature dish, potato-wrapped snapper. Finish with the chocolate lava cake for dessert and take a stroll on Disney's boardwalk to end the night. Main courses cost $31 to $40. Reservations strongly recommended.

Flying Fish Café, 2101 N. Epcot Resorts Blvd.
Orlando, FL 32830, tel 407 939 3463
www.disneyworld.com

Wolfgang Puck Cafe

Enjoy the many mosaics, the bright colors and the open kitchen at Wolfgang Puck Cafe at Downtown Disney. This eclectic restaurant is famous for its pizzas, but also offers sushi, salads, chicken, pasta and much more. Main courses cost $21 to $30. Reservations strongly recommended.

Wolfgang Puck Cafe, 1482 E. Buena Vista Drive
Orlando, FL 32830, tel 407 938 9653
www.disneyworld.com

Le Cellier Steakh ouse

Le Cellier Steakhouse offers the ambience of a Canadian wine cellar with stone arches and wood paneling. This Canadian-inspired restaurant is located in the Canadian Pavilion in Epcot, so themepark admission is required. The menu includes aged beef, Canadian salmon and seafood. Main courses cost $10 to $30. Reservations strongly recommended.

Le Cellier Steakhouse, Canada Pavilion Epcot
Orlando, FL 32830, tel 407 939 3463
www.disneyworld.com

Narcoossee's

Inspired by small-town Florida, Narcoossee's overlooks the Seven Seas Lagoon at Disney's Grand Floridian Beach Resort. The menu focuses on seafood and includes pan-fried grouper, grilled shrimp and crab with potato cakes. Narcoossee's menu also includes paella and Maine lobster.