In my bucket list of visiting every US state, I had always dreamed of going to Florida. I just imagined myself living in the big city with everything bustling around me. I will come to the best family restaurants in Orlando in a bit, but you must know how it felt. From beaches to theme parks. From one end to another just full of things to do, to live each day with a new experience. And the landscape just added to the whole anticipation, palm trees, islands, and coral reefs. And just last month, I was there, it was surreal. It might not feel as much, but trust me, it was literally a dream come true for me.
And for the foodie I am, I had to try everything from local recommendations to bougie restaurants. Travelling solo, I find my comfort in Family restaurants. They offer wholesome meals with a comforting atmosphere, which I really miss.
If you are looking for the best family restaurants in Orlando, as a tourist or a local, here is my list, and experiences, along with my must-try recommendations.
Family Restaurants in Orlando
The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen
If Charlie and his chocolate factory really existed, this place would be it. A sweet heaven with not just amazing desserts but also a 19th-century factory theme that really looks like a chocolate wonderland. You can visit this place at any time of the day, and it will surprise you. I went there to have dessert after my dinner, and I was blown away by how amazing it looked at night.
Recommendations: Chocolate Crème Brûlée, Cookies and cream s’mores, and Dutch Chocolate Ice Cream.
Chef Mickey’s
Located inside Disney’s Contemporary Resort, this place is every child’s dream. You get to meet Disney characters while you enjoy your food. I mean, what’s better than dining with your favourite Disney character? There are many items on the menu both kids and adults can enjoy. This has to be one of the most fun restaurants in Orlando for families.
Recommendations: Mickey pancake, Cheesy Potato Casserole, and Carving Station.
Giordano’s
Located near Lake Buena Vista, this place is close to a bunch of popular Disney spots, so it’s an easy walk in. Giordano’s is one of the best Family restaurants in Orlando. That is what the locals told me when I asked them to recommend a pizza place. I think their Pizza in Florida is iconic.
Recommendations: The special Deep-dish pizza
Columbia Restaurant
With charming indoor and outdoor seating, this legacy family-friendly restaurant in Orlando offers private dining rooms and lovely cocktails. This place offers comfortable Spanish cuisine that you and everyone in the family can enjoy.
Recommendations: Cuban Sandwich, Ybor City Devil Crab Croquettes, and salad.
The Crystal Palace
Another place for Disney lovers, what’s unique here is a Victorian-style setting with a glass atrium. Make sure to make your reservations weeks before. I would say this place is mostly for kids, and they can enjoy an ‘All you can eat’ feast.
Recommendations: Mac n Cheese and tacos.
Fun Family Restaurants in Orlando
Rainforest Cafe
This is another popular and super Fun family restaurant in Orlando, located in Lake Buena Vista. This is a rainforest-themed restaurant with animatronic animals, thunderstorm effects, and tropical décor. It keeps kids entertained the entire time.
Recommendations: Burgers, pasta, and fish and chips.
Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament
Say bye-bye to boring dinners and enjoy this medieval masterpiece. Enjoy Jousting, horsemanship & falconry with a whole 4-course meal. I mean, what is more fun than this, especially with family. You get to see a medieval performance where knights fight each other. Believe me, it’s a very unique experience.
Recommendations: Enjoy the 4-course meal
Pirate’s Dinner Adventure
Another theme-based fun family restaurant in Orlando is Pirate’s Dinner Adventure. This is also a place that will keep your kids entertained while they enjoy their meals. Kids can interact with pirates while they narrate an immersive story, and that’s not the end; there is acrobatics and a pirate ship stage that keeps everyone engaged.
Recommendations: Chicken, Pasta, and Veggies
Hard Rock Cafe Orlando
I think there is a never-ending list of theme restaurants in Orlando. Did you say a rock-roll themed restaurant? Yes, Orlando has that too. Located in Universal CityWalk, this place offers not just American food but also enriches you with the history of music. Let me give you a heads up on the portions, they are lavish.
Recommendations: Legendary Nachos, Legendary Burger, Golden Onion rings, and Southwest chicken bowl.
Sushi Hiro
You get to enjoy all-you-can-eat sushi and for kids you can order noodles and tempura from the kids’ menu. This will not disappoint you, and you must check this cool place out. It’s also getting super popular lately, I would say an underrated gem. If you are looking for Sushi in Orlando, Sushi Hiro in Ste 30, Jacksonville is the most top-rated place.
Family-friendly Restaurants in Orlando
Chicken Guy:
This on the list of Family-friendly restaurants in Orlando, is also an affordable option. This is a great place to grab something filling on the go. A casual and quick service restaurant. Grab a crispy chicken tender along with your favourite sauce and enjoy.
Recommendations: B.L.A.T, Oreo shake, crispy chicken with buffalo sauce.
Hash House A Go Go:
An authentic farm food experience, but with a twist. My favourite place to have brunch at, it is places like these that make me miss my friends on a solo trip. The Bloody Marys here are a bestseller.
Recommendations: Chicken Benedict, French Toast, and sugar banana.
Yard House:
If you have older kids or teens, then this is a go-to Family-friendly restaurant in Orlando. The menu has a lot to offer; there is something for everyone, from pizza and burgers to Asian-inspired dishes. So no fuss, just a bunch of options to choose from.
Recommendations: Spicy Jambalaya, Garlic noodles, and fried Calamari.
Black Tap Craft Burgers & Beer:
This place is famous for its over-the-top milkshakes, which honestly look like works of art. Kids love them, and the burgers are also excellent.
Recommendation: Burger Salad and Oreo Shake
T-Rex Cafe:
Located in Disney Springs, this dinosaur-themed restaurant feels like a prehistoric adventure. With giant animatronic dinosaurs and meteor showers inside the restaurant, it’s one of the most exciting places for kids to dine.
Recommendation: Seafood Trio, chocolate extinction, and mushroom ravioli
Final Thoughts
From themed dining experiences to casual pizza spots, family restaurants in Orlando truly go beyond just good food. Many of them turn dinner into an experience that kids will remember long after the trip ends. What I personally loved about dining in Orlando is how restaurants embrace the city’s fun spirit.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Top family restaurants in Orlando?
Some of the top family restaurants in Orlando include T-Rex Cafe, Rainforest Cafe, Chef Mickey’s, and The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen for their fun themes and family-friendly menus - Best family restaurants in Orlando near Disney?
Great family restaurants near Walt Disney World Resort include Chef Mickey’s, The Crystal Palace, Chicken Guy!, and T-Rex Cafe. - Cheap family restaurants in Orlando?
Affordable family dining options in Orlando include Chicken Guy!, Giordano’s, and Hash House A Go Go, where portions are large, and prices are reasonable.
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