Orlando, ALA 2004: Fast Fusion to Gator Chowder
By Rona Gindin -- Library Journal, 06/01/2004
Accustomed to hosting conference attendees, tourists, and a rapidly growing population of residents, Orlando has a wealth of restaurants in all price ranges. Independent restaurants with well-trained chefs offer a wide assortment of dining options, but you will also find outlets of most national chains here—from drive-through burger stands to high-end steakhouses.
In fact, because Orlando draws visitors from the entire country, many companies use restaurants here as their 'test units,' trying out new menus, décor, or service before rolling the successful ones into outlets nationwide. Ten minutes from the convention center, an upscale McDonald's sells fresh sandwiches, is decorated with chandeliers, and offers entertainment options such as pool tables.
Menus run the gamut from basic American food to diverse cuisines from India, Thailand, and Latin America. Like their peers in other cities, many Orlando chefs mix and match the flavors, ingredients, and preparation techniques of two or more cuisines, generally using the word fusion to describe their offerings.
Many restaurants accommodate large groups, especially in the main tourist areas—International Drive (usually referred to as I–Drive), Lake Buena Vista, Kissimmee, and the locales in and around Disney World, SeaWorld, and Universal Orlando. Private party rooms can hold groups from ten to 200. Most of the establishments listed here are within a ten-minute drive of the convention center, or on the property of a theme park and no more than 20 minutes away. For information on transportation, see 'Getting Around Orlando ' on page 60.
The listings below include hours of operation, but always call ahead. Establishments that cater to the convention trade often adjust their schedules to meet demand.
When phoning from a local number (area code 407 or 321) to make reservations—and they are recommended—always dial the area code but not the number 1, first. The area code for all numbers is 407, unless otherwise noted. Cost estimates are based on the average price of an appetizer, entrée, drink, tax, and a 15 percent tip. For locations, see the map on page 86.
A Walk from the Convention CenterThe following restaurants, whether freestanding or located in hotels, are within a ten-minute walk from the convention center.
| S | $20–$30 |
| $$ | $30–$45 |
| $$$ | $45–$60 |
| $$$$ | $60+ |
Former football star Dan Marino puts his name on this regional American-food chain, serving popular items such as burgers, meatloaf, Asian chicken salad, pasta, and salmon in a publike atmosphere.
Dux Peabody Hotel Orlando, 9801 I-Drive, 345-4550; www.peabodyorlando.com. Mon.–Thur. 6–10 p.m.; Fri.–Sat. 6–11 p.m. $$$$
After watching the Peabody's famous ducks waddle through the lobby, head to their namesake restaurant for a gourmet meal in elegant surroundings. Artistically presented items have earned the restaurant many industry rewards. Formal attire recommended.
Everglades Rosen Centre Hotel, 9840 I-Drive, 354-9840, x3610; www.rosencentre.com. Daily 5:30–10 p.m. $$$
This spacious upscale restaurant, a tribute to the Florida Everglades, features a mix of popular American menu items, creative fusion selections, and offbeat choices such as gator chowder and wild boar, all presented artfully and served by a team of polished professionals.
Jack's Place Rosen Plaza Hotel, 9700 I-Drive, 996-4700; www.rosenplaza.com. Daily 5:30– 11 p.m. $$
The world's largest collection of autographed celebrity and dignitary caricatures adorn the walls at this steak and seafood restaurant—named after the hotel owner's father. In addition to simple surf-and-turf entrées, guests can sample more complex shrimp Provençale or red peppers stuffed with cheeses, vegetables, and beans.
LuLu's Bait Shack Pointe Orlando, 9101 I-Drive, 351-9595; www.lulusbaitshack.com. Sun.–Thur. 11 a.m.–10 p.m.; Fri.–Sat. 11 a.m.–midnight. $
Festive cocktails and a dining room designed to look shabby encourage diners to relax at this ultracasual, self-proclaimed 'Cajun Restaurant and Bayou Bar,' located on the upper level of the upscale Pointe Orlando shopping mall. Sitting indoors or out, sample Big Easy specialties such as fried shrimp po' boy sandwiches, jambalaya, and crawfish etoufee.
Origami Seafood & Grill Pointe Orlando, 9101 I-Drive, 352–2788. Daily 11 a.m.–9:30 p.m. $–$$
Named after the Japanese art of paper folding, Origami offers Japanese specialties à la carte and on a buffet. There are 40 varieties of sushi as well as traditional entrées such as tempura, teriyaki, and noodle dishes. With 380 seats, and indoor and patio dining areas, this Asian locale can accommodate large groups.
XS Orlando Pointe Orlando, 9101 I-Drive, 226-8922; www.xsorlando.com. Sun.–Thur. noon–midnight; Fri.–Sat. noon–2 a.m. $–$$
The slogan 'Dine. Drink. Play' summarizes I–Drive's youthful entertainment outlet, where promotions such as $3 margaritas on Mondays bring in a party-loving crowd. Menu items include the expected chicken caesar salad, quesadillas, burgers, and steaks. The second floor is stocked with more than 100 video and interactive games.
International DriveHop the I–Drive Trolley from the convention center to reach most of these restaurants, located farther away on International Drive, in only a few minutes.
Atlantis Renaissance Orlando Resort, 6677 Sea Harbor Dr., 351-5555; www.atlantisorlando.com. Tues.–Sat. 6–10 p.m. $$$$
White-glove service defines this fine dining seafood restaurant. Your dramatically plated seafood dinner will be served in a domed silver platter and finished off at a tableside cart, all to the sounds of live harp music. This extremely elegant restaurant is ideal for quiet business dinners. Seafood is the specialty but creatively prepared steaks are offered, too.
B–Line Diner Peabody Hotel Orlando, 345-4460; www.peabodyorlando.com. Open 24 hrs. $
The Peabody's all-day restaurant has a welcoming 1950s soda fountain theme and serves old-time favorites such as griddle cakes, as well as more unusual items such as ostrich burgers.
Bahama Breeze 8849 I-Drive, 248-2499; www.bahamabreeze.com. Daily 11 a.m.–1 a.m. $–$$
For a tropical escape beyond the palm trees outside your hotel, enter this Caribbean-themed retreat. The upbeat restaurant blends flavors from up and down the islands, infusing jerk, mango, and coconut into its recipes. While you wait, begin with fruity cocktails or a Jamaican Red Stripe beer and listen to the tunes of a reggae band on the patio.
Café Tu Tu Tango 8625 I-Drive, 248–2222; www.cafetututango.com. Sun.–Thur. 11:30 a.m.–11 p.m.; Fri.–Sat. 11:30 a.m.–midnight. $
For a casual meal with international flair, sample the all-tapas menu at this festive restaurant, which is set up as an artist studio where local craftspeople work on new creations while guests eat. The artwork is, of course, for sale. All menu items are generously portioned appetizers, encouraging groups to share items as diverse as Spanish antipasto, grilled kim chee-glazed ribs, and blue cheese–stuffed mushrooms.
Charley's Steak House Goodings Plaza, 8255 I-Drive, 363-0228; www.charleyssteakhouse.com. Sun.–Thur. 5–10:30 p.m.; Fri.–Sat. 5–11 p.m. $$$
Carnivores head in droves to this local steakhouse chain, which has been serving massive portions since long before national competitors like The Palm and Ruth's Chris set up shop nearby. The restaurant specializes in aged prime steaks (from three-year-old grain-fed steer) cooked over citrus wood, and the décor is decidedly masculine. Great for large groups, too.
Crazy Grill 7048 I-Drive, 354–4404; www.crazygrill.com. Daily 5–11 p.m. $$
A classic Brazilian churrascaria, Crazy Grill features a seemingly endless array of barbecued meats. Waiters bring long skewers with various cuts of steak, lamb, and turkey to each table, serving small portions as long as each guest requests them. Choices range from turkey wrapped in bacon to lamb and garlic-flavored sirloin. However, the accompanying buffet is disappointing.
Ming Court 9188 I-Drive, 351-9988; www.ming-court.com. Daily 11 a.m.–2:30 p.m.; 4:30–11:30 p.m. $$
Chinese food is taken to another—if not entirely authentic—level at this well-appointed Asian eatery. High-quality food takes on elements from cultures well beyond eight regions of China—and has done so since long before fusion was a buzzword. You'll taste Italian, Indian, and Latin American influences, too. Locals enjoy the dim sum breakfast.
Ran–Getsu of Tokyo 8400 I-Drive, 345–0044; www.rangetsu.com. Daily 5–11:30 p.m. $$
Local residents brave the tourist traffic to dine at Ran-Getsu, an elaborately designed restaurant serving a wide variety of Japanese foods plus 'New Florida cuisine,' often to the sounds of a traditional drum show.
Thai Thani 11025 S. I-Drive, 239-9733; www.thaithani.net. Daily 11:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m.; 2:30–11:30 p.m. $–$$
An expansive restaurant with an elaborate and authentic Thai décor. The menu is extensive and of high quality, offering Thai dishes flavored with lemongrass, lime, and peanut sauce.
Vito's Chop House 8633 I-Drive, 354–2467; www.vitoschophouse.com. Sun.–Thur. 5–10:30 p.m.; Fri.–Sat. 5–11 p.m. $$$
A classic steakhouse with an Italian flair, Vito's is a large tourist restaurant that pulls off an intimate feel. The martini list is extensive, and the wine list boasts 1000 labels. Party room facilities accommodate ten to 200.
Sand Lake RoadOver the last two years, a small strip of Sand Lake Road—located near I–Drive and within 15 minutes of Disney World, Universal Orlando, and SeaWorld—has blossomed into a dining destination known as Restaurant Row. Visitors and area residents dine side by side, enjoying the area's diversity and quality.
Amura Plaza Venezia, 7786 W. Sand Lake Rd., 370-0007; www.amurarestaurants.com. Mon.–Fri. 11:30 a.m.–2:45 p.m.; daily 5–10:15 p.m. $$
Amura is two restaurants in one: a high-end sushi and Japanese restaurant garnering top reviews and, adjacent, a typical Japanese steakhouse. Keep to the sushi end for fresh rolls and such (this unit claims the longest sushi bar in Orlando), as well as hot meals such as scallion-ginger pork loin and salmon teriyaki. The dining room is modern and dramatic.
Antonio's Sand Lake The Fountains, 7559 W. Sand Lake Rd., 363-9191; www.antoniosonline.com. Mon.–Sat. 5–10 p.m. $$
Designed for groups, this large, dramatically decorated Italian restaurant is divided into several smaller rooms, including six small banquet areas. The design features Old World Tuscan elements such as barrel-vaulted ceilings and Italian murals. The menu draws from regions throughout Italy and includes pastas, risottos, and a large assortment of veal dishes.
Anaelle & Hugo The Fountains, 7533 W. Sand Lake Rd., 996-9292; www.anaelleandhugo.com. Sun.–Fri. 11:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m.; Sun.–Sat. 5–10 p.m. $$
This hip little newcomer offers an international menu developed by a French chef. Diners can have an appetizer, dinner entrée, and dessert for under $35. The specialty is 'fatbread,' a flaky-dough pizza topped with odd combinations like 'white bean paste' with pulled lamb, aged pecorino, green onions, and caramelized garlic. Two private dining areas seat up to 20 each.
Christini's Marketplace, 7600 Dr. Phillips Blvd., 345–8770; www.christinis.com. Daily 6 p.m.–midnight. $$$$
Orlando's grandfather of restaurants catering to small business groups, Christini's is an elegant Italian destination with attentive service, including strolling serenades, and thoughtfully prepared food. Owner Chris Christini oversees the dining room. The award-winning wine list carries vintages from around the world.
Memories of India Bay Hill Shopping Center, 7625 Turkey Lake Rd., 370-3277. Daily 11:30 a.m.–2 p.m.; Mon.–Sat. 5:30–10 p.m.; Sun. 5:30–8:45 p.m. $–$$
Members of Orlando's Indian community favor this small restaurant located just off Sand Lake Road. Curry, saffron, and cardamom infuse the dishes with flavor here, where cheeses are made from scratch, and meals are authentic. Even desserts such as an Indian rice pudding are delightfully intense.
MoonFish The Fountains, 7525 W. Sand Lake Rd., 363–7262; www.fishfusion.com. Sun.–Thur. 5–10:30 p.m.; Fri.–Sat. 5–11 p.m. $$
MoonFish is a spectacularly designed seafood restaurant meant for conventioneers that is gathering a local following. Don't let the logoed steak knives fool you: you'll get fresh, expertly prepared seafood and steak dinners.
Roy's Restaurant Orlando Plaza Venezia, 7760 W. Sand Lake Rd., 352-4844; www.roysrestaurant.com. Sun.–Thur. 5:30–10 p.m.; Fri.–Sat. 5:30–10:30 p.m. $$$
Hawaiian-fusion is the name of the game at Roy's, a mostly seafood house featuring daring creations in a warm, stone-and-wood Pacific setting. In addition, the restaurant has destination-worthy desserts created by a dedicated pastry chef named Stella.
Samba Room Plaza Venezia, 7468 W. Sand Lake Rd., 226–0550; www.e-brands.net/samba. Mon.–Fri. 11:30 a.m.–4 p.m.; Sun.–Thur. 4–11 p.m.; Fri.–Sat. 4 p.m.–midnight. $$
Latin flavors take on a nuevo flair at the Samba Room, which has an upbeat restaurant on one side, a dance club on the other. Begin with a minty mojito and move on to South American specialties.
Seasons 52 Plaza Venezia, 7700 W. Sand Lake Rd., 354–5212; www.seasons52.com. Sun.–Thur. 4:30–10 p.m.; Fri.–Sat. 4:30–11 p.m. $–$$
You'll have to fend off area residents to land a table at the hottest restaurant in town, a creative-cuisine enclave where, if you look closely past the towering presentations and sauce painting, you'll realize all items are low in fat and calories. The menu changes weekly based on the season, hence the '52' in the name, and vegetarian options are plentiful. If two more tests prove successful, this is the prototype for what owner Darden (Olive Garden, Red Lobster) will turn into a high-end chain
Vines Grille & Wine Bar The Fountains, 7563 W. Sand Lake Rd., 351-1227; www.vinesgrille.com. Mon.–Thur. 4–10 p.m.; Fri.–Sat. 4–11 p.m. $$
For a more personal take on steaks and chops than you'll find in the steakhouse chains, Vines is a cozier, jazzier escape—with food that is just as good. Vegetarians enjoy the spicy pan-seared tuna. Vines boasts that it charges retail rates for its extensive selection of wines.
Walt Disney World ResortDisney World is most known for the Magic Kingdom and its three other theme parks, Animal Kingdom, Epcot, and Disney–MGM Studios. Within those parks, 18 hotels, and other outlets, there are several very good restaurants. Disney's team takes dining so seriously that it has more certified sommeliers than any other company in the country. Every Disney restaurant, from fast food outlets to fine dining establishments, carries at least one vegetarian entrée. To learn more about most of these restaurants, call the reservations hotline, 407-WDW-DINE, or visit www.disneyworld.com
bluezoo Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel, 1500 Epcot Resorts Blvd., Lake Buena Vista, 934-1111; www.thebluezoo.com. Daily 5–11 p.m. $$$
Boston-based celebrity chef Todd English recently opened this seafood restaurant with a menu that he calls 'coastal cuisine'—basically seafood with international and New American influences. The décor, by New York's Jeffrey Beers, is a razzmatazz of swirling blues.
Boma Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge, 2901 Osceola Pkwy., Lake Buena Vista, WDW-DINE (939-3463); www.disneyworld.com. Daily 7:30–11 a.m. & 5–10 p.m. $
Located within a Disney hotel that has giraffes roaming its 'savannah,' Boma is the buffet of all buffets. The food is African-inspired, meaning you may find tamarind, curry, or an unusual grain in many dishes. In addition to typical though extra flavorful steak, seafood, and poultry selections, Boma dedicates entire 'pods' to vegetarian foods and kids' selections.
California Grill Disney's Contemporary Resort, 4600 N. World Dr., Lake Buena Vista, WDW-DINE (939-3463); www.disneyworld.com. 5:30–10 p.m. $$$
High atop one of Disney's original hotels, with a bird's-eye view of the Magic Kingdom fireworks, the California Grill is billed as Disney's signature restaurant. Business folk and well-dressed tourists alike visit for sushi and California cuisine, prepared by John State, one of Orlando's most respected chefs. The wine list is extensive, with more than 100 selections by the glass.
Flying Fish Café Disney's BoardWalk Inn, 2101 N. Epcot Resorts Blvd., Lake Buena Vista, WDW-DINE (939-3463); www.disneyworld.com. Sun.–Thur. 5:30–10 p.m.; Fri.–Sat. 6–10 p.m. $$$
Located on Disney's Atlantic City–style boardwalk, Flying Fish serves up creative and dramatically presented fish and shellfish meals (and steaks also). With dishes such as potato-wrapped snapper and 'peeky toe' crab cakes, it regularly rates as one of Disney's best restaurants. A counter facing the open kitchen is good for solo diners.
Jiko—The Cooking Place Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge, 2901 Osceola Blvd., Lake Buena Vista, WDW-DINE (939-3463); www.disneyworld.com. Daily 5:30–10 p.m. $$$
Decorated with African touches like banded poles reminiscent of African jewelry, Jiko celebrates an entire continent in its food. Chef Anette Grecchi Gray, a Swiss native, uses grains and ancient flavors to enliven American meats and produce. The restaurant boasts the widest selection of South African wines on the North American continent.
Victoria & Albert Disney's Grand Floridian Resort, 4401 Grand Floridian Way, Lake Buena Vista, WDW-DINE (939-3463); www.disneyworld.com. Seatings at 5:45 p.m. & 9 p.m. daily. $$$$
Disney's most upscale restaurant is this tony Victorian-themed winner, where chef Scott Hunnel, who has earned Mobil's five-diamond rating for the second year in a row, prepares six-course creative-fusion meals that are served by a duo of servers whose name badges read 'Victoria' and 'Albert.' The jackets-required establishment features live harp music, roses, and even personalized monogrammed menus for each guest.
Wolfgang Puck Café Downtown Disney West End, 1482 E. Buena Vista Dr., Lake Buena Vista, 407-938-WOLF (9653); www.levyrestaurants.com. Daily 11:30 a.m.–10 p.m. $–$$
For a casual meal, spend time at the Wolfgang Puck Café, which offers a mix of gourmet pizzas, hearty if New Agey entrées, and super-fresh sushi. Watch chefs take meals from the wood-burning oven, or sit outdoors and watch the tourists stroll by. A fast-food outlet next door (and another at nearby Downtown Disney Marketplace) features some of the same terrific menu items served quickly.
Universal OrlandoEmeril's Orlando Universal CityWalk, 6000 Universal Blvd., 224–2424; www.emerils.com. Sun.–Sat. 11:30 a.m.–2 p.m.; Sun.–Thur. 5:30–10 p.m.; Fri.–Sat. 5:30–11 p.m. $$$$
Emeril's Tchoup Chop Royal Pacific Resort, Universal Orlando, 6300 Hollywood Way, 503-CHOP; www.emerils.com. Sun.–Sat. 11:30 a.m.– 2 p.m.; Sun.–Thur. 5:30–10 p.m.; Fri.–Sat. 5:30– 11 p.m. $$
Mega-chef Emeril Lagasse, known as much for his TV shows as his Creole-based restaurants, serves a menu at Universal that echoes the one at his original restaurant in New Orleans. Homemade andouille sausage and locally grown produce help bring this restaurant up a notch from competitors.
At Emeril's Tchoup Chop, the 'bam!' man turns out Polynesian-fusion food in this glitzy hot spot. An infinity-edge pool runs down the center of the dining room, and fruity cocktails begin meals in appropriate Hawaiian style.
Mythos Islands of Adventure, Universal Orlando, 224-4233; www.universalorlando.com. Hours vary according to park schedule. $$
With a special pass from customer service, it's possible to dine at Mythos without paying the fee to the theme park in which it resides. The over-the-top dining room looks like a Greek grotto, with cavelike walls. The menu is thoroughly modern, with influences from around the world resulting in spectacular entrées, especially when the table-service restaurant is open for dinner.
The Palm Hard Rock Hotel, 5800 Universal Blvd., 503-7256; www.thepalm.com. Mon.–Sat. 5–11 p.m.; Sun. 5–10 p.m. $$$$
Orlando's outpost of this New York–based steakhouse chain features caricatures of local celebrities on the wall, along with those of national figures, reproduced from the original Manhattan restaurants. Big juicy steaks and enormous lobsters—plus several Italian dishes—are The Palm's calling cards.
Around TownIf you have a car or taxi fare and are willing to travel a bit, consider visiting some of the restaurants most beloved by Orlando's food enthusiasts.
Chef Justin's Park Plaza Gardens Park Plaza Hotel, 319 Park Ave. S., Winter Park, 645-2475; www.parkplazagardens.com. Mon.–Sat. 11:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m.; Mon.–Thur. 6–9:30 p.m.; Fri.–Sat. 6–10 p.m.; Sunday 11 a.m.–3 p.m. & 6–9 p.m. $$$
Enjoy Euro-Florida cuisine under towering trees in a dining room with a gardenlike feel in downtown Winter Park, a sophisticated strip in an Orlando suburb. Chef Justin Plank prepares an ambitious menu that crosses the board from curry mussels to classic steaks.
Del Frisco's Double Eagle SteakHouse 729 Lee Rd., Winter Park, 645-4443. Mon.–Thur. 5–10 p.m.; Fri.–Sat. 5–11 p.m. $$$
Orlando's Del Frisco's, the original of a nationwide chain, is a bustling, red-banquette, cavernous space where carnivores down enormous steaks and enjoy a 500-selection wine list. Located about 40 minutes north of the tourist strips, Del Frisco's is often filled with business folk and hosts countless private parties every week.
Edgewater Grille 2306 Edgewater Dr., College Park, 425-1801; www.edgewatergrilleorlando.com. Mon.–Fri. 11:30 a.m.–3 p.m.; Mon.–Sat. 5–11 p.m. $$$
A fairly formal restaurant in a delightfully informal slice of Orlando, Edgewater Grille bills itself as a Tuscan restaurant but actually serves foods from throughout the Mediterranean.
Enzo's Restaurant on the Lake 1130 S. Hwy. 17-92, Longwood, 834-9872; www.enzos.com. Fri. 11:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m.; Mon.–Sat. 6–11 p.m. $$$
Up in Longwood, about 20 minutes north of downtown Orlando, this rambling old-time Italian restaurant has been a favorite for many years. Located on a lake, it features classic Old World fare.
Hue, A Restaurant 629 E. Central Blvd., Thornton Park, 849-1800; www.huerestaurant.com. Mon.–Thur. 11:30 a.m.–11 p.m.; Sat.–Sun. 11:30 a.m.–midnight. $–$$
Located in newly rejuvenated Thornton Park, Hue is the hippest restaurant in Orlando, serving stylishly attired thirtysomethings in a fashionable dining room. Even the music piped in is customized for the cutting-edge professional crowd. Selections include tuna tartare Napoleon and tamari-roasted duck breast. Vegetarians have options such as blackened tofu with soy-honey stir-fry vegetables.
K Restaurant Wine Bar2401 Edgewater Dr., College Park, 872-2332; www.krestaurantwinebar.com. Tues.–Fri. 11:30 a.m.–2 p.m.; Tues.–Sat. 6–10 p.m. $$
Chef-owner Kevin Fonzo has been written up in national food magazines for the inspired meals he turns out at tiny K, located in an up-and-coming neighborhood called College Park. The restaurant's walls serve as a gallery for Orlando artists.
La Dolce Sera Plantation Grove, 5072 Dr. Phillips Blvd., 294-0234, Mon.–Sun. 11 a.m.–3 p.m. and 5–10 p.m. $$
Louis Chatham, one of Orlando's most established and respected chefs, has just opened this New York–style Italian restaurant, specializing in pastas and authentic meals generously using olives, capers, and tomatoes. Live piano music enhances the ambience.
Le Coq au Vin 800 S. Orange Ave., 851-6980; www.lecoqauvin.com. Tues.–Fri. 11:30 a.m.–2 p.m.; Tues.–Sat. 5:30–10 p.m.; Sun. 5–9 p.m. $$
Orlando's classic French restaurant, which has been around for two decades, remains a favorite—and is reputed to be local chefs' No. 1 pick on their nights off. Chef-owner Louis Perrotte prepares every item with the utmost care, yet meals are served in a surprisingly casual space located in an old house in an offbeat neighborhood.
Norman's Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes, 4102 Central Florida Pkwy., 393-4333; www.normans.com. Sun.–Thur. 6–10 p.m.; Fri.–Sat. 6–10:30 p.m. $$$
A pioneer of what he calls 'New World Cuisine,' Norman Van Aken re-creates here much of what has wowed the world from his Miami base: flavors from Latin America and the Caribbean playfully combined with tastes from Europe and the Orient.
Primo JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes, 4040 Central Florida Pkwy., 206-2300; www.primo.com. Daily 5 p.m.–10:30 p.m. $$$
Under the auspices of Maine's award-winning chef Melissa Kelly, Primo serves 'Italian-inspired' meals prepared mostly with organic ingredients in a warm atmosphere. A cheese course is available, and the desserts are the best in town.
Rona Gindin is the Dining Editor, Orlando magazine
