Orlando Florida, USA Travel Guide
Orlando's food culture is shaped by tourism, featuring a vast selection of international and chain restaurants. Traditional "Floribbean" cuisine blends Southern, Caribbean, and Latin American influences.
Fresh seafood like grouper and snapper, Florida citrus, Southern staples (grits, barbecue), and Latin American elements (plantains, black beans) are common ingredients.
International Drive and theme parks feature well-known chain restaurants and themed dining for a global audience.
More independent restaurants, diverse cuisines, and a growing number of upscale dining spots for a local city experience.
A concentration of high-end and diverse restaurants, including steakhouses, sushi, and various international cuisines.
A Florida classic: tart, creamy pie with lime juice, condensed milk, and egg yolks, often in a graham cracker crust.
Widely available in dessert shops and many restaurants.
Crab claws served chilled with mustard sauce. Season: October 15 to May 15.
Look for these at seafood restaurants during the season.
A fresh white fish fillet, grilled, fried, or blackened, served on a bun.
Many seafood-focused restaurants feature this popular Florida dish.
Fresh orange juice, local craft beer, rum-based drinks (reflecting Caribbean influence), and sweet tea are widely available.
Theme park specific snacks (like Dole Whip at Disney), fried dough ("Elephant Ears"), and various ice creams.
Found in upscale hotels and resorts, like Victoria & Albert's at Disney's Grand Floridian or Norman's at The Ritz-Carlton Orlando. "Restaurant Row" in Dr. Phillips offers high-end choices like Christner's Prime Steak & Lobster. Reservations are essential.
Mid-range restaurants are abundant, especially on International Drive, with national chains (Cheesecake Factory, Olive Garden) and independent eateries. Budget options include fast food, casual diners, and food courts in malls. Grocery stores also offer prepared foods. Booking.com lists diverse options.
Orlando's diverse population means a robust international cuisine scene (Puerto Rican, Cuban, Vietnamese, Indian, Brazilian). East End Market and Plant Street Market offer local vendors and artisanal foods.
Options are increasingly available. Most mid-range and fine dining establishments offer choices. Dedicated restaurants exist downtown.
Theme parks have expanded plant-based offerings, often marked on menus.
Many restaurants are skilled in handling allergies; communicate your needs. Theme parks have specialists. Halal/Kosher options may need research.
Use apps like HappyCow for vegan/vegetarian places; contact restaurants in advance for specific needs.
Some local classes outside main tourist areas.
Explore downtown or "Restaurant Row" food scenes.
Tours or "u-pick" at Central Florida farms seasonally.
Epcot's International Food & Wine Festival (fall).
Very popular within theme parks and entertainment complexes (CityWalk, Disney Springs). Examples: Toothsome Chocolate Emporium, Space 220. Reservations far in advance are typical.
Focus on immersive atmosphere.
Medieval Times and Pirate's Dinner Adventure combine a meal with live entertainment, offering a distinct Orlando experience.
Family-friendly evening options.
Visit East End Market (near downtown) or Plant Street Market (Winter Garden) for a collection of local vendors, artisanal bakeries, cafes, and restaurants.
While not extensive, some local restaurants emphasize fresh, regional ingredients. Look for menus that highlight "Florida fresh" or seasonal produce.
A whimsical 19th-century themed restaurant at Universal CityWalk, serving unique entrees, gourmet chocolates, and towering milkshakes.
Dine with panoramic views of Earth from a space station at Epcot. An immersive experience with a prix-fixe menu.
Jungle Cruise-themed dining at Magic Kingdom, offering "world-famous" cuisine and corny jokes in an adventurous setting.
Often explore downtown Orlando or specialized culinary neighborhoods. Gain insights into the local food scene beyond the theme parks.
A great way to discover hidden culinary gems.
Some local cooking classes may be available, typically found outside the main tourist areas. Check community centers or specialized culinary schools.
A hands-on way to explore local ingredients and dishes.
Most modern restaurants and theme park dining venues are wheelchair accessible, with ramps and accessible restrooms.
Service animals are generally welcome in dining establishments in accordance with ADA guidelines.
In tourist areas, staff often speaks multiple languages, especially Spanish, to assist international visitors.
Consider Mobile Ordering through theme park apps to save time in lines for quick-service meals.
