Our favourites outside the parks
Orlando food is not all greasy burgers, although the burgers can be delicious. Bartaco is one of our favourites for good-value tacos and a lively atmosphere. We also return to First Watch for brunch, Miller’s Ale House for a dependable American classic, Downtown Diner in Celebration, Bayridge Sushi near Margaritaville, Saffron Indian Cuisine in Kissimmee and Mochinut Kissimmee for something sweet and fun.
Easy choices for families
Publix is far more than a supermarket. Its freshly prepared hot-food counter and famous made-to-order subs make an easy villa dinner. The staff are usually lovely and there are plenty of lighter options too. For a themed meal, Rainforest Cafe and T-REX are fun for children. D-Luxe Burger at Disney Springs serves generous portions at prices that can feel surprisingly close to fast food, while Celebration’s diner is relaxed and easy.
Good food on a budget
McDonald’s, Raising Cane’s, Chipotle and Panda Express are useful when the budget matters. Portions can be large enough to share, especially at Chipotle. Children’s meals are worth checking too. Disney Springs covers a wide range of budgets: D-Luxe Burger is excellent value, The Boathouse works for a special meal, and Salt & Straw is our favourite ice cream. Ask to sample flavours and consider a child-size serving if you only want a little.
Healthier choices
First Watch is helpful for breakfast bowls, eggs and lighter brunches. Seasons 52 is another useful option for vegetable-led and grilled dishes, while Bolay offers build-your-own bowls. Remember that a salad is not automatically a light meal: dressings, cheese and toppings can change it completely, so ask for dressing on the side if that matters to you.
Our honest skips
Chick-fil-A and Popeyes are popular, but we think Orlando has better chicken for similar money. Ford’s Garage at Margaritaville used to be a favourite, but our recent visits included cold food, slow service and one particularly unpleasant problem. The staff were kind, but we would choose somewhere else for now.
Booking, tipping and leftovers
Book table-service restaurants for Friday to Sunday and expect fast-food queues immediately after the parks close. Check the bill before tipping because some restaurants automatically add gratuity, particularly for larger groups. Portions are usually generous and taking leftovers home in a box is completely normal. Many drinks include free refills, and you can often request a cup to take the final refill away.
Where to eat
Celebration offers a pleasant walkable collection of cafés and restaurants. International Drive has enormous choice and food-truck areas. Disney Springs is the easiest all-rounder when a group wants different price points. Uber Eats and DoorDash deliver from many of these restaurants. It usually costs more after fees and mark-ups, but it can be worth every penny after a tiring park day or when nobody wants to leave the villa.