Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
160
Equally good is an entree of grilled salmon with a teriyaki glaze, also with spinach orzo
pasta. Premium wines are served by the glass.
12148 Apopka-Vineland Rd. (just north of Hwy. 535/Palm Pkwy.).
&
407/239-6676.
www.macaronigrill.
com. Main courses $7-$16 lunch, $9-$22 dinner (most less than $12). AE, DC, DISC, MC, V. Sun-Thurs
11am-10pm; Fri-Sat 11am-11pm. Free self-parking. Take I-4 exit 68, Hwy. 535/Apopka-Vineland Rd.
north and continue straight when Hwy. 535 goes to the right. Romano's is about 2 blocks up on the left.
5
PLACES TO DINE IN UNIVERSAL ORLANDO
Universal Orlando stormed onto the restaurant scene with the mid-1999 opening of its
dining and entertainment venue, CityWalk, which is between and in front of its two
parks, Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure. But Universal's sudden entry
onto the food front doesn't mean quality was lost in the rush. In fact, some of the best
dining options around can be found here—even inside the theme parks (and most espe-
cially at Islands of Adventure). Several of Universal's restaurants offer cuisine ranging
from respectable light bites to dependable dinners (a few even border on fine dining!),
with most offering unique and casual atmospheres. Do note, of course, that the better-
than-average food and surroundings come with higher-than-average prices. Universal
takes “Priority Seating” arrangements for its park and CityWalk restaurants, which can
be made up to 30 days in advance by calling
&
407/224-3613
for USF restaurants,
407/224-4012
for IOA restaurants, and
407/224-3663
for CityWalk (except Margari-
taville and NBA City) dining spots. Actual reservations are available only for
Mythos
(
&
407/224-4534
) and
Emeril's
(
&
407/503-2467
). For more information on dining
at Universal, call
&
407/224-9255.
Note:
Most of the restaurants below can be found on the “CityWalk” map on p. 339.
All of the hotel restaurants listed can be found on the “International Drive Area Dining”
map on p. 165.
5
VERY EXPENSIVE
Bice
ITALIAN Universal Orlando's newest restaurant is appropriately located in
the romantic and spectacular Italian setting of the Portofino Bay Hotel. The family-
owned and -operated restaurant (part of a Milan-based international chain), serves cre-
ative Italian cuisine in a sophisticated and upscale atmosphere. The extensive menu
includes items such as a Belgian endive salad in a light Dijon mustard dressing with
Gorgonzola cheese and toasted walnuts; spaghetti with Maine lobster and cherry toma-
toes in a tomato bisque; and veal chops with sautéed mushrooms, potatoes, and spinach.
The dining room overlooks the waters along the piazza of the hotel, itself a beautiful and
romantic setting—a table on the patio, if timed right, may allow you to enjoy the music
of the strolling musicians performing just below along the piazza. The interior decor is
elegant, accented by a beautiful muted fresco of the Italian countryside; soft, subdued
lighting sets the tone. The lounge has a more contemporary and chic feel about it
(though the flatscreen TV above the bar detracts greatly from the otherwise exceptional
ambience). If there's a disappointment to be found at this restaurant, it's the air of aloof-
ness created by the servers and staff.
5601 Universal Studios Blvd., in the Portofino Bay Hotel.
&
407/503-3463
or 407/503-1415. Reserva-
tions recommended. Main courses $16-$44. AE, MC, V. Daily 5:30-10:30pm. Free 3-hr. validated self-
parking; valet parking $20. From I-4, take exit 75B, Kirkman Rd./Hwy. 435, and follow the signs to
Universal.
