Restaurants in Orlando

Restaurants in Orlando are everywhere – even inside many villa communities as well as bordering the highways, shopping plazas, at dedicated centers such as Disney Springs, Universal CityWalk, and in all the theme parks. One thing’s for sure, you’ll never go hungry when you vacation in Orlando!

If you’re looking for a few restaurant recommendations from a local, read on and enjoy.

The Boheme, 325 S. Orange Ave, Downtown

Located in the Grand Bohemian Hotel, The Boheme Restaurant is open pretty much continuously from 6.30 for breakfast to 10pm. Serving mainly European cuisine, meals are reasonably priced and ambience is plush. Don’t miss the Sunday Jazz Brunch – you need to book ahead for this treat!

Romano’s Macaroni Grill, 5320 W. Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy

This awesome Italian Bistro has $4 beers and wine daily. Open 11am to 10pm, it titillates the tastebuds with homemade soups such as Lobster Bisque, crispy salads, Artichoke Dip, Brick Oven Pizzas and your favorite pastas, steaks and seafood. Create your own pasta dish for just $15 and add a few sides such as parmesan truffle fries.

Red Lobster, 4010 W.Vine St, Kissimmee

I know it’s a chain restaurant but I do love the delicious dishes on the Red Lobster menu – in fact I could eat there every day! As well as signature drinks (try the Spiced Southern Punch!) they do yummy seafood and fish such as Colossal Shrimp and Salmon, Shrimp Skewers, Grilled Sea Scallops not to mention tender Sirloin and succulent Snow Crab Legs.

Tortilla Rice, 5150 W. Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy

Another Kissimmee favorite for families is the Mexican restaurant Tortilla Rice. Located in the Red Lion Hotel, you can’t miss the bright red and green facade. They do a great breakfast buffet to fill up on with fresh pastries, danish and fruit before launching their hot and tasty Mexican menu. All dishes come with beans and rice. Try the $9.99 Lunch Special or the Taco Tuesday for great casual dining on a budget.

Bahama Breeze, 1251 W. Osceola Pkwy, Kissimmee

You know you’re in the tropics when you dine at Bahama Breeze with its bright island decor and Caribbean inspired food. Serving lunch and dinner, it serves legendary cocktails from 11am to midnight making it a great late night hang-out. From meatballs to empanadas and conch fritters to jerk chicken wings, it’s all about the taste.

BTW, if you’re an international visitor to Orlando, here’s a few tips:

• Standard tipping for a meal is 15-20%. Most servers are only paid in tips.

• If you order soda, water or coffee in a sit-down restaurant, refills are generally free. Top up your to-go cup and you’re good for a few hours!

• Most restaurants do not take reservations. When you join the line, ask what the expected wait time will be.

• Portions are very generous. Ask for a to-go box and take left-overs with you for breakfast. In America, it’s the norm!