Orlando is not only a world-famous resort, it also has a rich dining culture. Whether it is fast food in theme parks or high-end restaurants in the city, Orlando can meet the needs of different tourists. However, if you want to enjoy food in a unique atmosphere, why not choose an open-air restaurant and taste a delicious dinner under the stars?
1. Orlando’s open-air food culture
Orlando’s open-air restaurants are mostly concentrated in the bustling streets and resorts in the city, especially by the beautiful lake or on the roofs of the city. The restaurants here usually provide a comfortable dining environment while enjoying the beautiful night view. The design of the restaurant also pays great attention to the integration with the natural landscape. Some restaurants will adjust the layout and decoration of the table according to seasonal changes, which greatly enhances the dining experience.
Especially in spring and autumn, the warm weather and comfortable evening breeze make open-air restaurants the best place for gatherings. Many restaurants also provide live music performances, paired with fine wine and food, to create a relaxing atmosphere for customers. These restaurants not only attract tourists, but also become a popular place for local residents to gather.
2. The Boathouse
Restaurant History
The Boathouse is a high-end open-air restaurant located in Disney Springs, specializing in seafood and American barbecue. The uniqueness of the restaurant lies in its “water dining” experience. The restaurant is located on the lake, giving people an immersive feeling. Its history stems from a tribute to Orlando’s traditional seafood dining culture, while incorporating modern design elements, allowing tradition and innovation to be perfectly combined here.
Food Features and Taste
The seafood dishes of The Boathouse have always been the highlight of the restaurant, especially its signature dish-oyster platter, which has a delicious taste, full meat, and melts in the mouth with sauce. The restaurant’s grilled lobster is also very popular. The lobster meat is tender and tender, with special butter and garlic, rich and layered. In addition, the restaurant’s “Boathouse Burger” is also a good choice. The beef is juicy and full of flavor, paired with homemade sauce, and has a unique taste.
For dessert lovers, The Boathouse’s “Key Lime Pie” is a classic that cannot be missed. It has a perfect balance of sweet and sour, a silky taste, and is endless aftertaste.
Personal experience
During the meal at The Boathouse, I chose to sit on the outdoor terrace to enjoy the warm evening breeze and the night view on the lake. The service staff was warm and thoughtful, and quickly recommended the fresh seafood of the day to me. I ordered the oyster platter and grilled lobster, which tasted surprisingly delicious, especially the freshness of the seafood was impressive. The most amazing thing is that the restaurant’s wine list is also very rich, paired with refreshing white wine, it is simply a feast for the taste.
Location and booking platform
The Boathouse is located in the core area of Disney Springs, surrounded by many shops and entertainment venues. It is very conveniently located and can be easily reached through the parking lot of Disney Springs. In addition, the restaurant provides a variety of booking methods, including reservations through OpenTable and Resy.
Cost
The price of The Boathouse is high, but considering its high-quality dining and environment, the cost performance is still good. Generally speaking, the a la carte price of seafood platter and grilled lobster is between $30 and $50, and the price of dessert is about $8 to $12. The cost of a whole dinner is about $60 to $100, depending on the dishes and drinks you order.
3. Café Tu Tu Tango
Restaurant History
Café Tu Tu Tango is a tapas-based restaurant located in downtown Orlando. The restaurant is famous for its unique artistic atmosphere, with paintings and installations by local artists hanging on the walls, giving it a very unique artistic atmosphere. The decoration inside the restaurant is colorful and the atmosphere is relaxed and lively, suitable for dining with friends.
Food Features and Taste
Café Tu Tu Tango’s food is mainly tapas, and their Tapas (Spanish tapas platter) is especially recommended, including fried squid, grilled beef skewers and grilled sausages, which have a unique taste and rich taste. The restaurant’s “Crispy Tofu Bites” are also very popular, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with a full taste. In addition, the restaurant’s “Gambas al Ajillo”-Garlic Pan-Fried Shrimp is also very popular, with tender and juicy shrimp and a strong garlic flavor.
Personal experience
I enjoyed a leisurely dinner at the outdoor seating of Café Tu Tu Tango. The restaurant offers a rich selection of Spanish tapas, and every dish on the platter is satisfying. In particular, the fried squid is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, paired with a sour and spicy sauce, and has a rich taste. The bartender of the restaurant also recommended several cocktails with unique tastes for me, which complement the food.
Location and reservation platform
Café Tu Tu Tango is located on International Avenue in Orlando, surrounded by many shops and entertainment facilities, and has very convenient transportation. Its reservation platforms include OpenTable and Resy, and you can choose the appropriate reservation method according to your needs.
Cost
The dishes at Café Tu Tu Tango are moderately priced, with most tapas priced between $10 and $20, and the main dishes priced between $15 and $30. The cost of the entire dinner is about $30 to $50, depending on the dishes and drinks you choose.
4. The Roof at Park View
Restaurant History
The Roof at Park View is a rooftop bar and restaurant in downtown Orlando that offers modern American cuisine. The restaurant is located on top of a historic building and offers panoramic views of the city. The atmosphere here is both modern and warm, making it an ideal place for business gatherings and romantic dates.
Food Features and Taste
The dishes at The Roof at Park View are mainly modern American, and their “Seared Scallops” are especially recommended. Each scallop is fried to perfection, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with a rich taste. The restaurant’s signature “Lobster Roll” is also very popular, with a rich lobster flavor and butter aroma that is intoxicating. It is worth mentioning that the restaurant’s “Bacon-Wrapped Filet” is also a dish that cannot be missed. The steak is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with an excellent taste.
Personal Experience
When I dined at The Roof at Park View, I chose to sit on the open-air balcony and tasted their signature dishes accompanied by the night view of the city and the breeze. I was pleasantly surprised by the exquisite presentation of each dish, especially the seafood and steak, which were tender and juicy with rich taste. The wine list is also very diverse, and the whole dining experience is perfect with the exquisite meals.
Location and reservation platform
The Roof at Park View is located in downtown Orlando, and you can make reservations through OpenTable or Resy.
Cost
The Roof at Park View’s dishes are on the high side, with main courses costing about $25 to $50, and drinks and desserts costing about $10 to $20. The cost of a whole dinner is about $60 to $100.
5. Things to note when dining at outdoor restaurants in Orlando
Reservations are key
Orlando’s popular outdoor restaurants are often full, especially on weekends and holidays. It is recommended to make reservations in advance through platforms such as OpenTable and Resy to ensure ideal seats, especially in outdoor areas.
Pay attention to weather changes
Although outdoor dining is romantic, weather factors cannot be ignored. There are often sudden rains in the evening in Orlando. It is recommended to bring light rain gear or give priority to outdoor areas with awnings.
Clothing suggestions and anti-mosquito measures
It is recommended to wear light and comfortable clothes for outdoor dining in the evening to avoid exposing too much skin. At the same time, prepare mosquito repellent spray, especially by the lake or in areas with abundant greenery, which can effectively avoid being bitten and affecting the dining experience.
Respect dining time and dining etiquette
Many outdoor restaurants in Orlando have clear dining time restrictions, especially those with scenic views and night view areas, which often have a dining time limit of 90 minutes to 2 hours. It is recommended to arrive on time to avoid missing the prime time.
Dining in an open-air restaurant in Orlando, whether enjoying the beautiful scenery by the lake or tasting food on the roof, every meal is an unforgettable experience. You can choose the right restaurant according to your needs and experience Orlando’s unique night view and food. When booking a restaurant, you can easily make reservations through platforms such as OpenTable and Resy to ensure that you enjoy this delicious trip at the most suitable time.
Whether you’re a couple seeking romance or just want to hang out with friends, Orlando’s open-air restaurants can add a lot of color to your trip.
