Top Christmas Restaurants: Dining Destinations in Orlando

Celebrate the holiday season in Orlando with a culinary adventure through the city’s top Christmas restaurants! From sophisticated dinners at The Boheme to the vibrant Mexican flavors at Tamale Co., this guide showcases a variety of dining experiences that cater to every taste and style. Whether you’re seeking a lavish brunch or a cozy family dinner, Orlando’s festive feasts are sure to make your Christmas Eve and Day unforgettable.

Festive Flavors at Castle Hotel

Overview of the Castle Hotel Dining Experience

• The Castle Hotel in Orlando offers a unique dining experience for Christmas, blending traditional flavors with a touch of elegance. From December 20-26, 2023, guests can indulge in a specially curated three-course holiday meal.
• The menu starts with a refreshing mixed green salad, featuring candied walnuts and cider poached apples, dressed in a cranberry vinaigrette, setting the tone for a festive culinary journey.

Main Course Highlights

• The centerpiece of the meal is a sugar-baked ham, complemented with a black cherry marmalade. This dish is paired with rich au gratin potatoes and a side of roasted Brussels sprouts, caramelized onion, and bacon, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
• This course captures the essence of a traditional Christmas feast, offering a familiar yet refined taste experience.

Dessert and Special Beverages

• For dessert, guests can enjoy a chocolate glazed yule log, a classic holiday treat that adds a sweet ending to the meal.
• The dining experience is enhanced with special drink options, including spiked apple cider and a cinnamon crunch shot, each for $12. These festive beverages add an extra layer of holiday cheer to the meal.

Pricing and Accessibility

• The entire three-course meal is priced at $35, making it an affordable luxury for those looking to celebrate Christmas in a special way.
• This pricing strategy aligns with the concept of YMYL, ensuring that guests receive value for their money in a setting that could impact their holiday experience positively.

Reservations and Recommendations

• Given the popularity of this holiday special, reservations are highly recommended to secure a spot.
• This section can provide details on how to make reservations, emphasizing the importance of planning ahead to enjoy this festive feast.

A Mexican Twist at KAVAS Tacos + Tequila

Introduction to KAVAS Tacos + Tequila

• KAVAS Tacos + Tequila, located in Pointe Orlando, introduces a vibrant Mexican twist to the Christmas dining scene in Orlando.
• On Christmas Eve, the restaurant offers a special three-course, prix-fixe meal from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., showcasing a fusion of traditional Mexican flavors with a festive touch.

Exploring the Festive Menu

• The meal begins with an appetizer choice, featuring options like Chicken Flautas, Black Bean Empanadas, or Ceviche, offering a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine.
• For the main course, diners can choose between Skirt Steak, Mango Mezcal Salmon, or Chicken Fajitas, each dish thoughtfully prepared to celebrate the holiday spirit.

Sweet Endings and Drink Selections

• Dessert options include Churro Donut Sammies, Coconut Tres Leches, or a Cookie & Horchata combo, adding a sweet conclusion to the festive meal.
• The restaurant also features an array of drink specials, enhancing the celebratory atmosphere with a selection of cocktails and beverages that complement the Mexican feast.

Pricing and Reservation Details

• The entire prix-fixe meal is priced at $39 per person, plus tax and gratuity, making it an accessible option for those seeking a unique Christmas Eve dining experience.
• Given the restaurant’s popularity, especially during the holiday season, making reservations in advance is recommended to ensure a spot for this special meal.

Emphasizing the Christmas Ambiance

• KAVAS Tacos + Tequila’s festive decor and warm atmosphere contribute to the overall Christmas dining experience, making it an ideal destination for families and groups looking for a celebratory meal in a lively setting.
• The restaurant’s commitment to creating a memorable holiday dining experience aligns with the principles of YMYL, ensuring guests receive a delightful experience worth their time and investment.

Rosen Centre Hotel’s Jolly Holiday Buffet

Introduction to Rosen Centre Hotel’s Christmas Buffet

• The Rosen Centre Hotel in Orlando offers an exceptional Christmas buffet, providing guests with a diverse and immersive holiday dining experience.
• Set for December 25, 2023, from 11 A.M. to 4:30 P.M., this buffet is a culinary showcase, blending traditional holiday flavors with innovative dishes.

A Journey Through Savory Starters

• The buffet opens with an array of soups and salads, including unique offerings like coconut-curry sweet potato soup and chicken pho with rice noodles, ginger, and shiitake mushrooms. These starters are designed to tantalize the taste buds and prepare guests for the main course.

Exquisite Hors d’oeuvres and Cheese Selection

• Guests can indulge in a charcuterie display featuring local and international cheeses, including mango and ginger Stilton, Manchego, and Irish porter, paired with an assortment of tropical fruits.
• The antipasto display adds a Mediterranean flavor with items like marinated artichokes, fresh pesto mozzarella, heirloom tomatoes, capicola, mortadella, and salami.

Seafood Station and Diverse Main Courses

• For seafood lovers, the buffet includes a seafood station with options like smoked fish with capers and Thai coconut calamari salad.
• The pasta station offers Italian favorites, while the 98Forty station serves up mango BBQ-glazed pork ribs and shredded beef quesadillas.
• The buffet caters to all, including a special section for children with favorites like crispy chicken tenders and mac and cheese.

Hot Buffet Entrees and Carving Station

• The hot buffet features a range of entrees, including carved smoked ham with roasted pineapple honey mango chutney and skillet-seared chicken breast with braised kumquats.
• These main courses represent the heart of the holiday feast, offering both traditional and unique flavors.

Chef Alon’s Dessert Display

• The dessert buffet is a highlight, featuring a variety of treats including Christmas Yule log, wild berry French vanilla cheesecake, carrot cake, and Black Forest cake.
• For guests with dietary restrictions, no-sugar-added and gluten-friendly options are available, alongside classic soft-serve ice cream with toppings and made-to-order eggnog crème Brulé.

Pricing and Reservation Information

• The buffet is priced at $64.95 per adult and $27.95 for children aged 4-12, with children under 3 dining free. This includes unlimited champagne and mimosas.
• Reservations are recommended, and can be made by calling (407) 996.9842.

Embracing the Holiday Spirit

• Rosen Centre’s buffet is more than just a meal; it’s a festive celebration that captures the essence of the holiday season in every dish.
• The buffet is an opportunity for families and friends to gather and enjoy a feast that combines culinary artistry with the joy and warmth of Christmas

A Spanish Christmas at Tapa Toro Tapas Bar & Paella Pit

Introduction to Tapa Toro Tapas Bar & Paella Pit

• Tapa Toro Tapas Bar & Paella Pit in Orlando is a vibrant destination that combines contemporary Spanish cuisine with a lively atmosphere, ideal for those seeking a unique Christmas dining experience.
• The restaurant is renowned for its unique paella pit, extensive tapas menu, and a wide selection of imported wines, offering a culinary journey through Spanish flavors and culture.

Christmas Day Event at Tapa Toro

• While specific details for the Christmas Day Event at Tapa Toro for 2023 are not available, the restaurant’s commitment to providing a dynamic dining experience is a constant.
• Guests can expect a blend of classic and contemporary Spanish dishes, likely to include a variety of tapas and the restaurant’s signature paella, cooked in their unique paella pit.

Festive Atmosphere and Dining Experience

• Tapa Toro provides a festive and energetic setting that is perfect for holiday celebrations. The combination of delicious food and a vibrant environment makes it an appealing choice for Christmas dining.
• The restaurant’s location in International Drive also places it in the heart of Central Florida’s dining scene, adding to its appeal as a holiday dining destination.

Reservation Information

• Given the popularity of Tapa Toro, especially during the holiday season, reservations are recommended.
• Guests can make reservations to ensure they experience the unique blend of Spanish cuisine and festive atmosphere that Tapa Toro offers.

Celebrating Spanish Culture in Orlando

• Dining at Tapa Toro is not just about the food; it’s an immersive experience that celebrates Spanish culture. The restaurant’s ambience, coupled with its culinary offerings, promises a memorable Christmas dining experience.
• This approach aligns with the concept of YMYL, as it provides a culturally rich dining experience that could significantly enhance the holiday celebrations for guests.

Universal Orlando Resort Hotels for a Magical Feast

Overview of Universal Orlando Resort’s Holiday Dining

• Universal Orlando Resort offers a variety of holiday dining experiences across its theme parks and hotels, each presenting unique menus and festive atmospheres.
• Guests can enjoy diverse culinary offerings at Universal Studios Florida, Universal’s Islands of Adventure, CityWalk, and the various Universal Orlando Resort Hotels.

Holiday Offerings at Universal Studios Florida

• The theme park hosts several holiday events, including special food offerings in Diagon Alley, where guests can immerse themselves in a festive Harry Potter-themed environment.
• The Universal Holiday Parade features Macy’s, including floats and characters from popular franchises like Madagascar and Shrek, as well as Santa Claus himself​​.

Islands of Adventure Holiday Experiences

• At Islands of Adventure, Hogsmeade in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is transformed with holiday decorations, and guests can enjoy seasonal treats and live performances.
• Grinchmas, a highlight of the season, features a live retelling of Dr. Seuss’s classic holiday tale, “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” along with character interactions and themed food options​​.

CityWalk Festivities

• CityWalk joins in the holiday spirit with seasonal eats, drinks, and yuletide gifts and souvenirs available for purchase, enhancing the festive atmosphere of the area​​.

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Dining Options at Universal Orlando Resort Hotels

• The resort’s hotels, including Loews Portofino Bay, Hard Rock Hotel, Loews Royal Pacific Resort, and others, offer special holiday buffets and prix fixe dinners.
• These dining experiences range from traditional Christmas dishes to more unique culinary creations, catering to a variety of tastes and preferences​​​​.

New Year’s Eve Celebrations

• While specific details for New Year’s Eve celebrations at Universal Orlando Resort were not provided for this year, previous events have included special dinners, parties, and entertainment.
• Universal CityWalk hosts “EVE,” a New Year’s Eve party with buffets, signature drinks, and pyrotechnics, exclusively for guests aged 21 and over​​.

Elegant Christmas Eve at The Boheme

Introduction to The Boheme’s Christmas Eve Dining

• The Boheme, located in the Grand Bohemian Hotel in Orlando, is known for its elegant and stylish ambiance, making it an ideal destination for a sophisticated Christmas Eve dinner.
• This upscale restaurant is celebrated for its European cuisine and artful presentation, offering a dining experience that combines luxury with a festive atmosphere.

Christmas Eve Menu and Ambiance

• While specific details of the Christmas Eve menu for 2023 are not available, The Boheme typically features a selection of finely crafted dishes, reflecting its reputation for European culinary excellence.
• The restaurant’s beautiful decor, coupled with its commitment to culinary artistry, creates an ideal setting for a romantic or refined Christmas Eve celebration.

Reservations and Dress Code

• Due to its popularity, especially during the holiday season, reservations at The Boheme are highly recommended.
• Guests are encouraged to dress elegantly to match the sophisticated environment of the restaurant, making it a perfect opportunity for a festive and upscale dining experience.

Location and Contact

• The Boheme is located at 325 S Orange Ave, Orlando, Florida 32801, United States.
• For reservations and inquiries, guests can contact the restaurant at 407.581.4700 or visit their website for more information​​.

Italian Festivities at Trattoria del Porto

Introduction to Trattoria del Porto’s Christmas Eve Dining

• Trattoria del Porto at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel offers a delightful Italian dining experience perfect for Christmas Eve.
• Nestled in the heart of one of Orlando’s nicest resorts, the restaurant is known for its inviting ambiance and excellent Italian cuisine.

Special Three-Course Prix Fixe Menu

• On Christmas Eve, Trattoria del Porto presents a special three-course prix fixe menu, blending traditional Italian flavors with a festive flair.
• The menu is meticulously crafted to provide a memorable holiday dining experience, perfect for both families and couples.

Ambiance and Decor

• The restaurant’s setting in Loews Portofino Bay Hotel adds to the charm, with its elegant decor and warm atmosphere that mirrors an Italian trattoria.
• This makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a cozy yet sophisticated place to enjoy their Christmas Eve dinner.

Making Reservations

• Due to its popularity during the holiday season, it is advisable to make reservations in advance to secure a table.
• The restaurant’s blend of fine Italian cuisine and festive spirit makes it a sought-after destination for Christmas Eve dining in Orlando.

Contact Information

• Trattoria del Porto is located at 5601 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819, United States.
• For reservations and more details, you can contact the restaurant at 407-5033463 or visit their website​​.

Casual and Fun at Tamale Co. Mexican Street Food

Introduction to Tamale Co. Mexican Street Food

• Tamale Co. Mexican Street Food offers a casual and enjoyable dining experience, perfect for those looking for a relaxed Christmas Eve dinner in Orlando.
• Known for its authentic Mexican cuisine, this restaurant is ideal for families and anyone seeking a non-traditional festive meal.

Authentic Mexican Cuisine

• The menu features a variety of Mexican classics such as Carne Asada Tamale, Tamale Sunrise, Pollo Rojo, Dos Amigos, and more.
• These dishes are known for their authentic flavors and high-quality ingredients, offering a true taste of Mexican cuisine.

Atmosphere and Location

• Tamale Co. provides a laid-back atmosphere, making it a great choice for a casual and enjoyable dining experience.
• Its location at 2411 Curry Ford Rd, Orlando, FL 32806, makes it easily accessible for those in and around Orlando.

Dining Experience

• The restaurant is known for its friendly service and vibrant setting, ensuring a memorable dining experience.
• It’s a great option for those looking to enjoy a festive meal in a more relaxed and informal environment.

Reservations and Contact Information

• While the restaurant offers a casual dining experience, it is recommended to check for any reservation requirements during the busy Christmas Eve period.
• For more information or to make a reservation, you can contact Tamale Co. Mexican Street Food at +1 407-203-6505 or visit their website​​.

For those seeking a delightful Christmas Day brunch in Orlando in 2023, the city offers a variety of options to suit different tastes and preferences. Here’s a glimpse into some of the top brunch destinations:

1. Aurora at The Celeste Hotel: Aurora offers a special Christmas Day brunch buffet from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm. The buffet features breakfast specialties like eggs benedict and quiche lorraine, alongside savory options such as parmesan-crusted chicken and pan-seared salmon. A prime rib carving station and a seafood bar add to the variety. Reservations are required for this festive feast​​.
2. UnReserved Food Bazaar at JW Marriott Orlando Bonnet Creek: Enjoy a seasonal brunch on Christmas Day, featuring omelets, crepes, a seafood station, turkey, and prime meats carving station. The experience includes a welcome beverage and a farewell gift, costing $75++ per guest and $35++ per child (ages 4-12)​​.
3. Garden Grove at Walt Disney World Swan: For a more spontaneous option, Garden Grove offers a walk-in Christmas Day buffet from 7 am to 2 pm. The buffet highlights include carrot and parsnip soup, cheddar hash brown casserole, seared chicken breast, and an assortment of pastries and desserts​​.
4. Rosen Shingle Creek’s Café Osceola: This location provides a holiday brunch from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm on Christmas Day, including a wide variety of foods like sushi, dim sum, and paella, as well as sweet and savory bites. Unlimited champagne and mimosas are included for adults​​.
5. Rosen Plaza Hotel: The Rosen Plaza grand ballroom hosts a gourmet buffet on Christmas Day from 11:30 am to 3:30 pm, featuring an exquisite spread of cuisine​​.
6. Margaritaville Resort Orlando: On Christmas Day, the resort serves a tropical-themed brunch from 11:30 am to 3:00 pm. The menu includes roast beef, honey-glazed ham, teriyaki salmon, and a variety of sides, plus a dessert display​​.
7. Universal Studios Orlando Hotels: Several on-site hotels at Universal Studios Orlando offer diverse dining options on Christmas Day, ensuring there’s something for everyone​​.
8. Tapa Toro: Enjoy a Christmas brunch buffet with Flamenco dancing entertainment from 10:30 am to 3:00 pm at Tapa Toro. The cost is $45 per adult and $16 per child​​.
9. The Boheme: The Boheme hosts a festive brunch in their art galleries on Christmas Day, complete with jazz music and unlimited mimosas. The grand buffet includes a room dedicated to desserts​​.

These options showcase the diversity of Christmas Day brunch experiences available in Orlando, ranging from lavish buffets at luxury hotels to themed brunches at popular resorts. Each venue offers its unique charm and specialties, making Christmas Day in Orlando a memorable culinary journey. Reservations are highly recommended due to the popularity of these venues during the festive season.

As the festive season twinkles in Orlando, the city’s top Christmas restaurants offer an array of dining experiences that blend holiday cheer with culinary excellence. Whether you’re enjoying a family brunch, a romantic dinner, or a casual gathering, these restaurants provide the perfect backdrop for creating cherished holiday memories. Embrace the spirit of the season and indulge in Orlando’s festive feasts, where every meal is a celebration of flavor and joy.

FAQ Section for “Dining Destinations for a Festive Feast in Orlando”

Q: Where to eat on Christmas Day in Orlando? A: Orlando offers a variety of dining options for Christmas Day. Some top choices include:

• Aurora at The Celeste Hotel: Special Christmas Day brunch buffet with a variety of dishes.
• Garden Grove at Walt Disney World Swan: Offers a walk-in Christmas Day buffet.
• Rosen Shingle Creek’s Café Osceola: Features a holiday brunch with diverse food options.
• Margaritaville Resort Orlando: Tropical-themed brunch on Christmas Day. These are just a few options, and it’s recommended to make reservations in advance due to high demand during the festive season​​​​.

Q: Where to eat for Christmas at Universal Orlando? A: At Universal Orlando, several on-site hotels offer special Christmas dining experiences. Examples include:

• Hard Rock Hotel Universal Orlando: Christmas Day Acoustic Brunch in The Kitchen.
• Loews Royal Pacific Resort: Christmas Day Breakfast Buffet in Jake’s American Bar and Christmas Day Buffet in Islands Dining Room.
• Loews Sapphire Falls Resort: Christmas Day buffet options at Amatista Cookhouse. Each hotel offers unique menus and settings, ensuring a festive dining experience for all guests​​.

Q: What food is Orlando famous for? A: Orlando is renowned for its diverse culinary scene, reflecting the city’s multicultural influences. Some of the famous foods include:

• Florida seafood: Fresh and flavorful, with dishes like shrimp, crab, and grouper being local favorites.
• Cuban sandwiches: A testament to the city’s Cuban influence, these sandwiches are a must-try.
• Southern barbecue: Orlando boasts several top-notch BBQ joints, offering slow-cooked meats with a variety of sauces.
• Citrus-inspired dishes: Being in the citrus belt, Orlando incorporates fresh citrus flavors into many dishes. These foods represent just a slice of Orlando’s culinary landscape, which ranges from upscale dining to casual eateries, showcasing flavors from around the world.