Weird, eclectic, interesting, different -- where do we go?

[rejobako]

I posted something similar on the "Adults" forum, but it doesn't seem to get a lot of traffic, so I've modified it to solicit some advice here:

OK -- here's the scenario: My wife and I are taking our kids to our timeshare near Disney for an impromptu getaway next week. Our old babysitter moved to Orlando to go to college and she's agreed to sit for us on Saturday. We go to Orlando/Disney at least annually with the girls, and usually get out on at least one date while we're there. Our typical itinerary is a nice dinner out (Artist Point, Emerils, etc.), then we have a tradition of going to the Polynesian and having a frou frou drink at the bar outside Ohanas while peoplewatching -- then we'll stroll DTD or the Boardwalk or something.

We're both in kind of in a bohemian mood -- we want to do something different, maybe slightly off-the-beaten-path. We have a car, so it doesn't necessarily need to be on-property. So I would gladly solicit suggestions for:

a) an interesting, informal place for dinner. Unusual/ethnic cuisine would be a plus.
b) a fun spot to people-watch.
c) If you had to name the strangest place in Disney/Orlando (and there are many, I know ), what would be your response?

Any suggestions from you eclectic types would be most appreciated!

 

[luke6417]

I think that Boma or Jiko would suit your want for eclectic foods. Very interesting cuisine.
You could also take in the savannah while you are there.

 

[CheshireVal]

How about Raglan Road? It's not the *strangest* place in the world, but they do have some interesting dishes, great beer, good music, and you'll be in DTD, which is also a fabulous place to people watch.

My family (all adults) ate there during our last trip and it was one of our favorite meals!

 

[rejobako]

Thank you both for your suggestions!

 

[wdw_dine_junkie]

Cafe Tu Tu Tango off property would fit the bill. They serve tapas and it's kind of funky/bohemian. Check out the pictures on the site, it's really cool looking. I haven't been yet but it's on my list of places to try.

http://www.cafetututango.com/

http://orlando.citysearch.com/profile/2398691/orlando_fl/cafe_tu_tu_tango.html

 

[disnut8]

If you want Bohemian and people watching and it's Saturday night, I'd suggest Kissimmee Old Town. Bikers, tacky stores, carnival rides. There is a Damon's restaurant but the last time we were there, the service was horrible.

 

[powellrj]

Cafe Tu Tu Tango off property would fit the bill. They serve tapas and it's kind of funky/bohemian. Check out the pictures on the site, it's really cool looking. I haven't been yet but it's on my list of places to try.

http://www.cafetututango.com/

http://orlando.citysearch.com/profile/2398691/orlando_fl/cafe_tu_tu_tango.html

That was the first place I thought of. If you are looking for off-site, our new favorite is Texas De Brazil. The salad bar alone is worth the trip!

 

[aynt79]

Do you like fondue? We love the Melting Pot . It can be pricey, so a lot of people go for special occasions, but it's not overly fancy. It makes for a nice long, leisurely meal.

Also, (at least with the one we frequent in South Florida) you can have flowers/champagne/etc waiting at your table for you if you ask for it when you make a reservation. Makes a really nice impression for your "date" .

 

[Harambe]

While reading your post, the first place to pop into my head was House of Blues. Now, I have not been to the one at DTD, coz we have one here in Boston, but I imagine it is similar. Fun place, creole-style food, sometimes they have entertainment. Great place to people watch, then you can stroll along DTD, picking up a drink here and there!

 

[Kae]

Cafe Tu Tu Tango off property would fit the bill. They serve tapas and it's kind of funky/bohemian. Check out the pictures on the site, it's really cool looking. I haven't been yet but it's on my list of places to try.

http://www.cafetututango.com/

http://orlando.citysearch.com/profile/2398691/orlando_fl/cafe_tu_tu_tango.html

My first thought also. love the duck Salad & the Cajin Chicken Egg Rolls!!

Kae

 

[rejobako]

Great ideas, everyone. The Texas de Brazil place sounds especially interesting. We have some South American neighbors, and they're always raving about Brazilian steakhouses. May be time to check that out.