Restaurants near US/IOA (non-citywalk) recommendations

[Crazy4mandms]

We are staying at HRH in Aug...park closes at 7 so we were going to head off-site for late dinners (we actually are eating at Boma one evening) . We love to try different cuisines/atmospheres..my fiance' and I love, love, love Thai and Indian food and Morroccan is good. Kids always like Mexican and Chinese....Any recommendations for decent (not too, too pricey) restaurants near the HRH? Trying to stay away from the cookie-cutter type restaurants like you find at City Walk.

 

[MarilIncredible]

I know of some chain places within walking distance (Cracker Barrell, TGIFridays, Carrabas) but nothing that is really non-cookie-cutter. There is a steak house/sports bar nearby, but that kind of food isn't really very exotic, either.

 

[atricks]

I live across from the Studios, two good ones nearby are Agave Azul (Mexican), just north on Kirkman, and for Chinese probably Kim Wu (Both in the same shopping center).

Kim Wu (4904 South Kirkman Road Orlando, FL) has a buffet during lunch during the week and on Sunday, and nice chinese otherwise. Agave Azul has very reasonable lunch prices and is very good.

If you like Barbecue, Bubbalou's Bodacious BBQ is pretty good.

All three are on Kirkman Rd just over the bridge, north of Universal.

The Ale House across from Universal is ok too for those who can't decide on what to do.

 

[Crazy4mandms]

atricks...this sounds funny to ask because we like a little tastier fare, but my kids would love a 'bottom-feeder' day...how far is the nearest CiCi's pizza? And what would be nearby that us adults might enjoy while we send them off to chow down for one meal?

 

[atricks]

There's a CiCi's on International drive (
7437 International Dr.) between Universal Blvd and Sand Lake Rd., not far at all. Probably a bit too much to walk, though.

Ie from the Citywalk bridge head over toward wet & wild, turn right on I-Drive and look for Cici's on the Left after several blocks.

 

[Crazy4mandms]

We will have a rental car! Just hate wasting vacation time on long drives to out of the way places! Funny, been to WDW many times over the past few years but always stay on Disney property! Only once stayed off and still spent most of the time on property! So maybe knowing we'll have a car will expand the possibilities people are willing to suggest!

 

[PammyK]

Cafe TuTu Tango on I-Drive, south of Sand Lake is eclectic and fun featuring a sort of tapas style menu served in an active "artist's loft" setting. Good food, good drinks for the adults and lots to keep the kids occupied.

For Thai in a beautiful setting, Thai Thani at the intersection of Central Florida Parkway and I-Drive is very enjoyable. It is about a 10 minute drive from Universal if you take Turkey Lake to Central Florida. They also have a new location in downtown Celebration but that is further away.

For Thai in a minimalist setting, G G at the intersection of Turkey Lake and Conroy is quite good. Not as ornate in terms of decor, but good food.

I second the recommendation for Agave Azul at the intersection of Kirkman and Conroy. Good food and very yummy maragaritas.

Alehouse is always a good option for basic food and drink in a casual, sports bar type setting. However, I think you'd do better to visit the newer location on I-Drive near Wonderworks versus the Kirkman location. This might be a good alternative to a "bottom feeder" location like a (blech) CiCi's Pizza

For something a bit more upscale, Seasons 52 if always a good choice. Fresh market inspired cuisine with a menu that changes seasonally to take advantage of the best and freshest ingredients. They are located on Sand Lake Rd's restaurant row.

Oh, and if you are yearning for REAL bagels one morning, take a run to Delish NY Bakery in the Whole Foods plaza at the intersection of Sand Lake and Turkey Lake. You can get sandwiches, knishes or really yummy sweet treats there as well.

Everything I've mentioned should be no more than 15 minutes from your hotel.

 

[blackjackmark]

I "third" Agave Azul....LOVE the place! Went there a year ago, and then again this Spring Break. Decor reminds me of a seafood restaurant as it's all blues, silvers, waterwalls, etc. But the food was fantastic and VERY inexpensive!