The Top 5 Orlando Restaurants

Where are the best places to eat in Orlando? Are they in the theme parks? Are they in a resort hotel? Are they in the Crossroads? Let's find out:

1) Via Napoli - Epcot, Walt Disney World Resort

What is there to say about Via Napoli that hasn't already been said on this blog? It turns out not much! Read my full review here.

2) The Wave - Disney's Contemporary Resort, Walt Disney World Resort



The Wave is one of the newest restaurants at Walt Disney World, but has made a major impact in a short amount of time. The intimate atmosphere, modern architecture, and incredible food have put this basement restaurant with no windows easy to find. My menu suggestions: Grilled Beef Tenderloin, Grilled Marinated Flank Steak, and the Grilled Pork Tenderloin.

3) Emeril's Chop Chop - Lowe's Royal Pacific Resort, Universal Orlando Resort

In my opinion, one of the few reasons to even go near Universal Orlando is to eat at Emeril's Chop Chop. Asian and Polynesian influences can be found in both the menu and the wonderful atmosphere inside the restaurant. Leave the t-shirt and shorts at home for this one, you'll want to wear something a little nicer when you dine here. My menu suggestions: Steamed Pork and Vegetable Dumplings, and the Mongolian Barbecue Grilled Pork Tenderloin.

4) Citricos - Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, Walt Disney World Resort

Citricos is a bit expensive, but if you want good food, you have to pay for it. The setting is upscale in Disney's most expensive resort hotel. If you have some moeny to spend and enjoy "American Cuisine with a Distinct Tuscan Flare", then you'll want to give this one a shot. My menu suggestions: Braised Veal Shank, Roasted Chicken Breast, and the Berkshire Pork Two Ways.

5) Yak and Yeti - Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park, Walt Disney World Resort

When you first hear that this restuarant is owned by the same people who created the Rainforest Cafe, you may think it's just another restaurant with overpriced food and fake animals. You couldn't be more wrong about the Yak and Yeti. Nestled in the shadows of Expedition: Everest, this Asian restaurant breaks loose from the chain and offers a stunning menu without the child-friendly atmosphere you'll experience at any other Landry's restaurant. Instead, you'll really feel like you're visiting Asia while in sunny central Florida. My menu suggestions: Pork Pot Stickers, Dim Sum Basket, Crispy Honey Chicken, Baby Back Ribs (best on the planet!), and the Kobe Beef Burger.