Friday, February 23, 2024

Best Dinner Date Night Ideas In Orlando, Florida

Orlando, Florida, is famous for its world-class theme parks, including the iconic Disney World and Universal Studios. But the city offers more than thrill rides and Mickey Mouse. It's also home to a vibrant food scene with something for everyone. From award-winning romantic restaurants to cozy courtyards and fabulous waterfront dining, this guide will introduce you to some of Orlando's best dinner date night spots. Whether you're a local or a visitor, this guide will help you plan a memorable evening in The City Beautiful.

The Old Jailhouse

(Please note: This is a Guest Post from my friends at Vacation Central Florida)

Award-winning Romantic Restaurants in Orlando

Orlando's restaurant scene is as diverse as its population. There are hundreds of eateries, each offering unique culinary experiences. Among these, some have been recognized by prestigious platforms like Orlando Weekly, Orlando Magazine, and the Michelin Guide for their outstanding food and ambiance. Here are some of them:

Orlando Weekly's Reader's Choice

Orlando Weekly's yearly Best of Orlando Reader's Poll assesses the top dining venues in the city across different In the Food & Drink section; these dining establishments were selected as the ideal choices for a date:

  1. Hillstone
  2. Better Than Sex – A Dessert Restaurant
  3. Prato

Orlando Magazine's Dining Awards

Orlando Magazine's Dining Awards use reader votes to select winners in multiple categories. These three restaurants were found to be Orlando's most romantic in 2022:

  1. Better Than Sex
  2. Maxine's on Shine
  3. Hillstone

Michelin Guide's Selection

The Michelin Guide, Orlando Restaurants list, includes one-star rated and Bib Gourmand recipients. Some of our favorites are:

     Capa at the Walt Disney World's Four Seasons Resort Orlando — One-Star

     Knife & Spoon from chef John Tesar inside the Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes — One Star

     Domu at East End Market – Bib Gourmand

     Strand in Mills 50 – Bib Gourmand

     Bombay Street Kitchen on Orange Blossom Trail – Bib Gourmand

 

Garp & Fuss

Cozy Courtyards and Patios in Orlando

Outdoor dining in Orlando is a delight, thanks to the city's warm, tropical climate. Below are a few spots that offer a great mix of good food and beautiful outdoor settings.

Maxine's on Shine

Maxine's on Shine is a romantic eatery with an eclectic atmosphere and a charming shaded patio. It's a neighborhood hot spot and a frequent destination during the monthly Wine Walk in Thornton Park.

Garp & Fuss

Garp & Fuss is a neighborhood eatery in Winter Park with a fully enclosed patio dining area. You can feast on charcuterie and upgraded burgers and enjoy a variety of American fusion cuisine alongside signature cocktails and craft beer selections.

Rome's Flavours

Rome's Flavours is an authentic Italian eatery serving fresh pasta and heavenly pizzas. You can savor a meal al fresco and transport yourself to Italy, or opt for an intimate meal by making reservations for the indoor dining room.

The Old Jailhouse

Located in Historic Downtown Sanford, The Old Jailhouse serves delectable cuisine and top-notch cocktails in a unique setting.

The Imperial Winter Park

The Imperial Winter Park is a good choice for wine lovers. Sip thoughtfully curated wines while sharing small but refined food menu bites.

The Imperial Winter Park

Restaurants with a View in Orlando

Orlando's picturesque landscapes make dining with a view a delightful experience. Here are some spots that offer great food coupled with stunning views.

Waterfront Dining + Sunset Watching

At Disney Springs, The Boathouse serves date-worthy seafood fare best enjoyed at tables overlooking the water. Another spot you can check out is Canvas in Lake Nona, where you can feast on New American fare with Latin flare paired with seasonal cocktails.

Romantic Rooftop Restaurants

Some of Orlando's restaurants offer breathtaking views from their rooftops. These include the California Grill at Disney's Contemporary Resort and Bites & Bubbles.


Small Town Vibe

Orlando's small towns offer quaint and unfussy downtown districts filled with romantic restaurants for date nights. Some of our favorites are:

  1. Market to Table
  2. The Tennessee Truffle
  3. 1921 Mount Dora
  4. Goblin Market


Most Romantic Restaurants at Disney

 Wine and dine your date at Disney parks and resorts with these top picks:

     Be Our Guest Restaurant (Magic Kingdom)

     Le Cellier Steakhouse (EPCOT)

     Hollywood Brown Derby Restaurant and Lounge (Disney's Hollywood Studios)

     Tiffins (Animal Kingdom)

     Enzo's Hideaway Tunnel Bar (Disney Springs)

     Wine Bar George (Disney Springs)

     Steakhouse 71 (Disney's Contemporary Resort)

     California Grill (Disney's Contemporary Resort)

     Narcoossee's (Disney's Grand Floridian Resort and Spa)

     Jiko – The Cooking Place (Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge)

     Toledo (Disney's Coronado Springs Resort)

 

Romantic Restaurants to Celebrate a Special Occasion

 Celebrate your special occasions at these spots:

  1. Kres Chophouse
  2. Better Than Sex – A Dessert Restaurant
  3. Vinia Wine & Kitchen
  4. Highball & Harvest


Best Restaurants for a First Date

 Planning a first date? Check out these spots:

  1. Santiago's Bodega
  2. Eden Bar
  3. The Parkview


Final Thoughts

Orlando is a city that knows how to dine well, and its restaurants are as diverse and vibrant as its people. Whether you're looking for a cozy courtyard, a waterfront view, or a Michelin-starred experience, you'll find it in Orlando. So, the next time you plan a date night, take your pick from this list and enjoy a memorable evening in the beautiful city. After all, life's too short for mediocre meals!

Are you planning a romantic getaway or staycation?

Vacation Central Florida offers the perfect blend of comfort and intimacy. From resort-style condos to townhomes with private pools, they have various options to fit every need.