Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
163
leanings and includes a Cuban meatloaf survival sandwich, Creole shrimp marinara, and
Jimmy's jammin' jambalaya. While it's not contending for a critic's choice award, it's
fairly tasty grub. But watch the tab: At $7 to $9 a pop for margaritas, the bill can climb
to $50 or more per person for a routine meal that includes the jerk chicken or crab cakes.
If you don't hanker for margaritas, the drink menu is almost as long as the main menu
and features domestic and imported beer, as well as some unique tropical concoctions.
1000 Universal Studios Plaza, in CityWalk.
&
407/224-2155.
www.margaritavilleorlando.com or www.
universalorlando.com. Reservations not accepted. Main courses $9-$22 (most less than $15). AE, DISC,
MC, V. Daily 11am-2am. Parking $12, free after 6pm. From I-4, take exit 75B, Kirkman Rd./Hwy. 435, and
follow the signs to Universal.
Pastamoré Ristorante & Market
SOUTHERN ITALIAN This family-style res-
taurant greets you with display cases brimming with mozzarella and other goodies on the
menu. The Antipasto Amore is a meal unto itself. The mound includes bruschetta, melon
with prosciutto, olives, a medley of Italian cold cuts, fresh mozzarella, and more. The
menu also features such traditional offerings as veal Marsala, chicken piccata, shrimp
scampi, fettuccine Alfredo, lasagna, and pizza. The food is actually pretty interesting, and
the presentation isn't bad either. There's an open kitchen that lets you see the chefs in
action, and the atmosphere is pleasant and lively. Pastamoré has a basic beer and wine
menu. You can also eat in the Marketplace Café, where a lighter menu—breakfast fare
and sandwiches—is served from 8am to 2am.
1000 Universal Studios Plaza, in CityWalk.
&
407/363-8000.
www.universalorlando.com. Reservations
accepted. Main courses $11-$19. AE, DISC, MC, V. Daily 5pm-midnight; the Marketplace Café 8am-2am.
Parking $12 (free after 6pm). From I-4, take exit 75B, Kirkman Rd./Hwy. 435, and follow the signs to Uni-
versal.
6
PLACES TO DINE IN THE INTERNATIONAL
DRIVE AREA
5
International Drive has one of the area's larger collections of fast-food joints, but mixed
in around its midsection and southern end are some of the region's better restaurants.
South I-Drive is 10 minutes by auto from the Walt Disney World parks. Restaurant Row,
located in a small area just above I-Drive along Dr. Phillips Boulevard and Sand Lake
Road, is currently the hottest dining area in Orlando. Most of the restaurants listed here
are shown on the “International Drive Area Dining” map on p. 165.
VERY EXPENSIVE
Texas de Brazil Churrascaria
BRAZILIAN The decor (high ceilings, crimson
walls, and abstract art) at this Brazilian churrascaria is dramatic, but the atmosphere is
casual, upbeat, and welcoming. Upon being seated, you'll be directed to the extensive
seasonal salad bar, filled with a variety of more than 40 salads, roasted vegetables, and
soups. After filling your plate, head back to your seat, where you'll find a coasterlike
disc—one side red, the other green. When you're ready for your main course, just flip
your disc to green. Immediately a troop of carvers will show up, offering a variety of
grilled and roasted meats, including garlic-marinated
picanha
(rump steak), Brazilian
sausage, pork ribs, and chicken breast from their skewers. The bacon-wrapped filet is to
die for—it simply melts in your mouth. When you've had your fill, simply turn your disc
back to red. Assorted side dishes (served tableside) are available to complement your meal
