DK Travel : Orlando

One word describes Orlando’s transformation in the last three decades: stunning. The city and its suburbs have gone through a Cinderella-like metamorphosis, where plain Jane has become a worldly beauty. Millions of tourists are seduced every year by sophisticated resorts, a wide range of theme parks, must-see attractions, happening nightclubs, and winning restaurants. Here are Orlando’s best of the best.

More on the Top 10 sights in Orlando (see Thrill Rides)

Boma - Flavors of Africa

Bask in the warmth of this expansive and inviting family buffet which resembles an African marketplace. Experience open kitchens and watch the creative culinary team prepare salads, vegetarian dishes, grilled seafood and roasted meats — inspired by the varied flavours of over 50 African countries from the coast of the Mediterranean to the Indian Ocean. Capture the magic of the alluring tapestry of tastes and textures that make up the flavours of Africa.

Cuisine: African (D); American (B)

Facility Type: Restaurant

Dining Experience: Disney Special and Unique Dining (D, B)

Location: Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge

Meals Served:

Breakfast, Dinner: Buffet, US$$ (US$15-US$29 per person)

Disney Dining Plan Restaurant
Briarpatch Restaurant

Winter Park’s homey breakfast landmark is known for big omelets and fresh fruit platters, but the creative, healthy American menu will make you consider returning for lunch.
Brio Tuscan Grille

The trendy grill at Brio is wildly popular, but a lot of people come just to hang out at the bar here. Cocktails flow fast and furious for a crowd of well-heeled locals.
Brio Tuscan Grille

This local favorite has a huge dining room that buzzes with chatter and the sizzle of grilling in the open kitchen.
Brooks Brothers Outlet

Slim pickings for suits, but there’s a great range of casual sportswear for men and women, discounted by at least 40 per cent.
Bubbalou’s Bodacious BBQ

Smoked meat is the name of the game at this family joint. The sauces to put on range from mild to killer hot.
Buena Vista Watersports

This friendly facility, which is home to Dave’s Ski School, offers water-ski lessons, water-ski and wake-board charters, and rentals of personal watercraft (such as Waverunners and Seaddoos). The center, on the shores of Lake Bryan, is geared to beginners, and kids as young as three can join in. Nonskiers and spectators can use the lakeside beach, volleyball net, and picnic area.
Busch Gardens

With five roller coasters, this park is a close second to Islands of Adventure on the thrill front. Roller coaster addicts rate the park’s Kumba ride very highly. Busch Gardens is also a step ahead of Disney’s Animal Kingdom (see Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Park) when it comes to spotting nature’s finest creatures, which are very visible here on the Serengeti Plain, Serengeti Safari Tour, and Rhino Rally ride. During summer don’t miss cool rides like Congo River Rapids and Tanganyika Tidal Wave.
Cactus Club

Cactus is Orlando’s anti-trend gay club. There are no strippers or drag queens racing around here. Instead, expect a low-key, friendly neighborhood bar with darts, pool, and a nice outdoor patio.
Café Annie

Head here for authentic Greek and Lebanese food, especially Zorba’s platter, the chicken and beef kebabs, couscous and falafel

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Restaurant price categories

For a three-course meal for one, a glass of house wine, and all unavoidable extra charges including tax.
- under $20
- $20–$30
- $30–$45
- $45–$60
- over $60