Orlando’s Most Beautiful Restaurants

Orlando is a dream of a holiday in many, many ways. From the theme parks to the shopping centres, there is an element of fantasy about just about everything you see and do. And that is also true of the restaurants and dining choice. In addition to great food, you will find amazing design and creativity. In short, this is where you’ll discover some truly beautiful restaurants.

And, having recently highlighted our top choices for a romantic night out in our Valentine’s Day blog, we thought it was worthwhile shining the spotlight on another group of dining venues that are also special for their sheer style and striking good looks.

From Walt Disney World and International Drive to downtown Orlando and ritzy Winter Park, there are a fabulous array of restaurants that have that razzle-dazzle visual factor – as well as fine food, naturally – and you simply can’t go wrong for a memorable meal at any of our Top 10 scenic culinary wonders.

We’ve omitted any of our Valentine’s Day selection, just so we can bring you 10 all-new choices, but several of those (notably Corazon by Baires, The Boathouse and Kres Chophouse) would certainly qualify here. So, on with the show…

10. Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse

This eye-catching two-storey restaurant in the heart of International Drive features two state-of-the-art bars, five private dining rooms, a picturesque patio and a sleek, modern interior that is full of glitter and glamour. It looks good by day but is even more impressive at night – as is the mouth-watering array of steaks on a high-class menu.

9. The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen

While its name doesn’t exactly roll off the tongue, both the look and taste of this Universal CityWalk standout are right up there with the best. The exterior design is one of the best in Orlando, but the interior also matches up, with a playful candy store appeal and dining rooms both upstairs and downstairs. The upper bar area is also one of our favourite hot-spots in CityWalk.

8. Otto’s High Dive

Ready for some Cuban style (and tastes)? Head for the Milk District in downtown Orlando and enjoy this “neighbourhood rum bar,” which also features plenty of authentic, elevated Cuban fare to go with its array of daiquiris, mojitos and Cuba libres. Be ready for a lively, convivial atmosphere at this Michelin Bib Gourmand-rated choice (rated for both good value and good quality cuisine).

7. Old Hickory

Deep inside the stunning Gaylord Palms Resort in Kissimmee you’ll find this outstanding steakhouse that also wows for its visual style. Old Hickory is designed like a rustic hideaway in the Everglades, under the soaring glass atrium that covers most of the resort. It boasts outstanding service – and fine wines – to go with the upscale menu and is a real special occasion choice for couples or groups.

6. Ava MediterrAegean

While the name is a bit convoluted – it highlights an accent on Mediterranean cuisine with an Aegean focus – the look and feel of this Winter Park classic is nothing but sleek and sophisticated. The décor definitely matches that focus, with a warm and intimate setting that definitely evokes a relaxed but stylish Greek vibe, while the food is an absolute joy, with superb fish dishes, salads and steaks, plus an enticing weekend brunch.

5. Victoria & Albert’s

Walt Disney World’s flagship restaurant underwent something of a makeover during the pandemic, but it remains a classy – and distinctly upscale – experience from start to finish. One of Orlando’s seven Michelin-starred restaurants, the Victorian inspired design and murals evoke a bygone age of distinction and elegance while the selection of tasting menus are as good as anything you’ll find in the world’s best dining hot-spots.

4. Chuan Fu

When it comes to fabulous Asian food, Orlando is positively bursting at the seams with mouth-watering choice. Another Michelin-recommended restaurant, Chuan Fu takes up the challenge of providing a distinctive look to go with outstanding cuisine in Winter Park, offering an art gallery chic approach to the décor and lighting. The Szechuan-based menu is also arguably one of the best in Florida, with a range and authenticity that is very hard to find outside China.

3. Garp and Fuss

Staying in Winter Park, indoor dining has never seemed so, well, outdoor as the main dining room at the oddly-named Garp and Fuss. The patio style setting, glass ceiling and greenery growing up the walls combine for a unique visual motif that makes for another special-occasion choice. The eclectic menu is equally tempting, with a relaxed, playful feel, from their Boozy Burger to the Shrimp & Lobster Scampi, plus their own individual take on brunch.

2. STK Steakhouse

Unsurprisingly, Disney is positively packed with imaginative, eye-catching settings, and there’s a three-for-the-price-of-one value with the wonderfully stylish STK at Disney Springs. The main downstairs dining area has a lively European nightclub vibe (hence the DJ most evenings), while upstairs it is a touch more traditional. The feature rooftop patio is the clincher, though, with a visual trademark that is breathtaking, to match an impressive steak-heavy menu.

1. Topolino’s Terrace

Outdoor dining is, of course, another Orlando speciality, and Disney’s Riviera Resort, which opened in 2019, has managed to combine that al fresco touch with European dining delights. In addition to exquisite Frensh and Italian cuisine, Topolino’s affords grandstand views of the Skyliner cable car system to the EPCOT park as well as the neighbouring Caribbean Beach Resort. The expansive outdoor patio adds the essential element of high-end lounging with that signature Disney flair.

Honourable mentions go to: The Edison at Disney Springs, Enzo’s on the Lake in Longwood (north of downtown), Antojito’s Authentic Mexican Food (Universal CityWalk) and Baçan at The Wave Hotel in Lake Nona.

What are the most memorable restaurants YOU have tried in Orlando? Tell us about them on our Facebook, X and Instagram pages.