Here it is, 2024! Currently, many of us begin making plans for future travel. And, while hopping on a plane and going somewhere outside of Florida might be in the plans, there’s nothing more fun than also planning some local staycations in Florida.
You might think that Disney is just about the parks and subpar food, but there are three places that we recently visited that are unique and offer fun and diverse dining experiences. So, whether you are visiting for a weekend, or just for a day, here are the three spots to check out while in Orlando this New Year, especially for a fun time and experience.
JALEO BY JOSÉ ANDRÉS
Located in Disney Springs, this spot is one to dress up for and come for the food and stay for the entertainment. Flamenco dancers add to the ambiance, and the food is one of a kind. The restaurant boasts a selection of tapas, and each one represents real and true food that you would indulge on if you were to step foot in Spain. Some standout tapa dishes include the Paletilla Ibérica, which will have you nibbling from a 36-month cured ham shoulder, and a delicious Queso Manchego, a classic Spanish Manchego cheese made even more special with the addition of muscatel compressed apples. Lastly, if you want the best experience that you’ve ever had in this type of restaurant, just leave it up to the chef to prepare your dinner. There is an option of three chefs' tasting menus where you can experience dishes selected by the chefs. Starting at $100 per person, you can also add a selection of Spanish wines to go with your meal at an additional $49. We highly recommend this experience for those curious about authentic Spanish food.
Visit jaleo.com for menus, reservations, and more information.
PLANET HOLLYWOOD
Yes, I know what you are thinking. Planet Hollywood? What? Well, set aside your preconceived notion that this restaurant is simply a gimmick. The location is fun, is offering tropical drinks and you cannot leave without
a milkshake for dessert. Located in Disney Springs, the crowd flocks to this restaurant for the entertainment (expect Disney and rock music sing-alongs thanks to their impressive 4,500-square-foot immersive video wall featuring state-of-the-art sound and media featuring music videos, custom 3D animation and more. The restaurant also now offers Guy Fieri created bites, such as signature and varied sandwiches. If you are looking for some upscale bites, we recommend their steak picks and pasta dishes. Lastly, just come with a group, take silly selfies with their Hollywood memorabilia, and dress your funky best. This restaurant does not only feel like a restaurant, but it also feels like a dance party and cocktail lounge rolled into one. With this said, don’t shy away from the bar, and there’s even a new outdoor adjacent bar and dining area where you can sit outside (we recommend the second floor!) and watch the crowds while sipping a Mai Tai (highly recommended, trust me!). See? It’s not what you thought it was. This place is actually pretty fabulous. And, a blast!
Visit disneysprings.com/dining/planet-hollywood for more information, reservations and menus.
SPACE 220
If there is one theme park that you should visit, it's Epcot. And, while “drinking around the world” is nice and all, very few people know about the hidden-away and exclusive space-themed restaurant, Space 220. The restaurant and bar are always full (make sure to make a reservation) and there’s a reason why it’s one of the most sought-after dining spots at Epcot once you find out that it’s there. So, here’s me giving away the secret and recommending that all of you go, visit, and dine there. The pre-fixed lunch menu is a steal at $55 per-person, because the food offered is elegant and delicious. For example, you can pair a Galactic Miso Salmon or Steak & Frites with starters such as Wagyu Beef Carpaccio and even Duck Confit. The restaurant also offers a lounge and bar area, featuring hand-crafted cocktails by mixologists that have taken care of preparing the best of the best for diners. From a delicious old-fashioned to beer that seriously sparkles, you could even just enjoy a cocktail and bar bites at the bar and relax while watching astronauts and even astronaut lightsaber battles on the immersive screen around you. To get in, you get an exclusive ticket to board their spaceship that lifts you up to Space, which is the restaurant. Pretend you’re in space. Smile and take pictures. It’s the best immersive restaurant experience that you’ll ever have.
Visit space220fla.com for more information on reservations, menus and news about the restaurant.
