The 25 best restaurants near Orlando’s theme parks
Whether you're a tried and true Orlando local or an out-of-towner planning a trip to our parks, it's important to be in the know, especially when it comes to food. If you want to avoid the on-property price tags and headaches to instead venture outside of Orlando's major theme parks for a good meal, we've got you covered.
Some are a little more homegrown than others, but all have a special spot in Orlando — and that is outside the bustling parks. Here are 25 local restaurants that are near Walt Disney World, Universal, SeaWorld and the rest.
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Photo via Yellow Dog Eats/Facebook
407-296-0609, 1236 Hempel Ave., Windermere
Barbecue, sandwiches and salads with innovative twists are Yellow Dog Eats' speciality. Plates filled with pulled pork, smoked chicken or classic hot dogs are just a quick drive away from some of Orlando's biggest thrills.
Image via Columbia Restaurant
649 Front St., Celebration
Columbia Restaurant in Celebration is a part of Cuban cuisine chain founded in 1905 in Ybor City, Tampa, by Cuban immigrant Casimiro Hernandez Sr. and the chain says they are the oldest restaurant in Florida. The restaurant in Celebration has a pretty sweet outdoor seating area too.
Photo via Kavas Tacos/Facebook
7858 Turkey Lake Rd., Orlando
The 7,000-square-foot concept by Katerina and Vassilis Coumbaros, who also run Taverna Opa and Tapa Toro, features a menu of "Tex-Mex classics and playful takes on Mexican street fare inspired by the street food vendors of Mexico City."
Photo via Kabooki Sandlake/Facebook
7705 Turkey Lake Road, Orlando
Chef
Henry Moso is what makes the sushi game so strong at this high-end spot. There are a handful of rolls, none of which you'll find at your average sushi joint, but it's mostly sashimi and nigiri.
Photo via the H Cuisine/Facebook
7512 Dr Phillips Blvd., Orlando
Find authentic Turkish flavors and impressive culinary skills at the H Cuisine, where menu highlights include specialty cuts of beef and creative starters. The spot also offers brunch and a late night menu, as well.
Photo courtesy Seito Sushi/Facebook
8031 Turkey Lake Road, Orlando
Seito Sushi is a contemporary sushi and pan-Asian stop in the I-Drive corridor. They're open for lunch and dinner, so you have double the time to grab some mouthwatering sushi and creative dishes.
Photo via Gordon Ramsay Fish and Chips/Yelp
8391 International Drive, Orlando
While you're going to have to dish out a few extra bucks on these pricey fish and chips, you won't be disappointed in the flavor, crispness and experience of eating something from the mind of a culinary genius.
Photo via Playa Pizza/Facebook
13211 Reams Road, Suite 108, Windermere
This pizza joint offers more than just pies, with wings, pastas, hefty sandwiches and plenty of vegan options, too. But if pizza’s what you’re looking for, go big with some of their creatively named concoctions, like “Pineapple Is My Safe Word” or the “Sweet Dreams Are Made of Cheese” pies. Dine at night and you may just catch a glimpse of Disney’s fireworks show from across the way.
7858 Turkey Lake Road, Orlando
The super-popular yakiniku chain gives cook-it-yourself barbecue enthusiasts plenty of meats, seafood and vegetables from which to choose, but even better is that their smokeless roasters have a downdraft system to ensure you don't leave the restaurant smelling like the meats you just grilled.
Photo via Vines Grill and Wine Bar
7533 W. Sand Lake Road, Orlando
Located on Sand Lake's Restaurant Row, Vines Grille and Wine Bar offers an award-winning wine bar, live music, prime steaks, and fresh-caught seafood.
