I get asked for Orlando celebratory restaurant recommendations a lot, and truthfully I often feel ill-prepared to answer that question for several reasons. First, celebratory restaurants are different for different people. If you regularly blow 100+ dollars on dinner, can I give you a recommendation that will even feel special to you?

Second, Most people will list expensive, high-priced, luxury resort restaurants, and I rarely, if ever, dine at those. I did once for a celebration at a spot that will remain nameless, (ok it was HighBall and Harvest) and it was awful and cost me $200! After that splurge, I vowed not to be lured by the sirens of Ritzs and Seasons again.

However, that’s what people expect, right? Well, I’m not that person, and while I’m sure there is a fantastic meal I’m missing out on, I try to save my big splurges for travel dining, so therefore, I feel like maybe I’m not the best person to ask. I certainly don’t want to mimic what Google or other listicles say; I want to give real experience and context.

But then I thought, maybe there are people like me who feel that celebratory can mean a host of different experiences. Growing up without money has taught me many things, including that a restaurant doesn’t have to come with a $500 bill to be considered worthy of a celebration. It’s a treat just to get to dine out anywhere!

I’ve compiled a list of restaurants I personally feel have a lot to offer for anything you might want to celebrate. I wouldn’t dare say any of them are cheap, but they range from moderate to splurge.

Doshi

Who it’s a great spot for: Foodies that want something that isn’t too large, crowded, or chaotic. Whether you decide to order off the a la carte menu or reserve a spot for the Chef’s Counter, this elevated experience will satisfy you in a calm atmosphere. 

Who it’s not for: Someone who wants an extensive cocktail or beer list for their celebration.

CORO

What this is a good spot for: Coro is for foodies who appreciate a true fresh, seasonal menu, where you can watch the kitchen from most seats and feel like you are a part of a more intimate culinary experience.

Who it’s not for: People who are looking for a loud, party atmosphere where food is secondary or even third.

KAYA

Who it’s a great spot for: Avid foodies who love or want to explore Filipino food and seafood. You have the option to enjoy the full-tasting menu or sit at the bar and order a la carte. As a new Michelin Green Star restaurant, you’ll want to get reservations!

Who it’s not for: Because it is seafood-focused, that might not be for everyone depending on allergies or preferences.

EDOBOY

Who it’s a great spot for: Sushi lovers who don’t mind standing and want an intimate, out-of-the-ordinary dining experience.

Who it’s not for:  People that want to linger, have cocktails, and don’t love sushi.

The Monroe

Who it’s a great spot for: Foodies that like a mix of nostalgic southern fare in a gorgeous and trendy setting.

Who it’s not for: People who don’t want to venture downtown.

PRATO

Who it’s a great spot for: Foodies who love Italian food and love good people watching.

Who it’s not for: Honestly, I’d say Prato is an excellent option for everyone.

PAPA LLAMA

Who it’s a great spot for: Foodies that love Peruvian food, an intimate space, and are big into natural wines.

Who it’s not for: Picky eaters who don’t drink wine.

SUSURU

Who it’s a great spot for: Foodies who want a casual but fun, eccentric atmosphere and love Izakaya. 

Who it’s not for: People that want something more elevated or intimate.

AVA MediterrAegean

Who it’s a great spot for: Foodies wanting to dress up, go somewhere trendy, be seen, and are ready and willing to drop money to have a full experience.

Who it’s not for: Someone who is on a tight budget.

Reyes Mezcaleria

Who it’s a great spot for: Foodies who love mezcal and elevated Mexican cuisine in a beautiful eye-catching setting.

Who it’s not for: People who aren’t fans of Mexican food, but honestly the menu has a nice mix of options.

TURCI PASTA

Who it’s a great spot for: Foodies that want a quiet, intimate experience with homemade Italian fare.

Who it’s not for: A couple that wants a night out in a bustling, vibrant setting.

CAMILLE

Who it’s a great spot for: People who want an elevated, more intimate experience but without is being overly stuffy. The food here is incredible, it’s been one of Orlando foodie highlights in terms of a pricier meal that I would splurge for again.

Who it’s not for: Picky eaters who want full culinary control.

KADENCE

Who it’s a great spot for: Avid foodies collecting Michelin Star dining experiences with no budget.

Who it’s not for: People who are on a budget and aren’t up for not controlling their menu choices. 

FYI: Kadence is currently on hiatus until March 8th.

THE STRAND

Who it’s a great spot for:  Foodies whose budget might not be at Michelin Star level but can afford Michelin Bib Gourmand—looking for a very chill atmosphere with locally sourced, high-quality food.

Who it’s not for: Anyone looking for Instagram fodder or wanting something flashy.

Ravenous Pig

Who it’s a great spot for: Foodies who like the Gastropub experience and local brews in a atmosphere that isn’t so casual that you can’t have a celebration.

Who it’s not for: Ravenous Pig is for everyone except maybe vegans, whose options would be limited.

WA Sushi

Who it’s a great spot for Foodies that are very into fresh seafood and sushi, and who want something intimate.

Who it’s not for: People who don't love sushi or want glitz and glam.

Kabooki Sushi SAND LAKE or Downtown

Who it’s a great spot for Foodies that are into an elevated experience by a local award-winning, James Beard nominated Chef and who also want something hip, trendy, and worthy of debuting a new outfit.

Who it’s not for: People who don’t love sushi or want something more low-key.

FOUR FLAMINGOS

Who it’s a great spot for: Foodie fans of Richard Blais, who want upscale but still Florida casual, and don’t mind trekking to the attractions area.

Who it’s not for: Four Flamingos is more seafood-forward, and while there are other options, if you have a shellfish allergy, this might not be the best option.

DOMU

Who it’s a great spot for: Foodies who still haven’t tried the famous Domu wings and don’t want to spend big on their dinner but still want a nice atmosphere. For a more elevated aesthetic, go to the Dr. Phillips location.

Who it’s not for: People who eat at Domu regularly, so it’s not celebration-worthy.

MORIMOTO

Who it’s a great spot for: Foodies who are fans of Chef Morimoto, who also love Disney and want to make a whole night out of celebrating in Disney Springs.

Who it’s not for: Anyone that doesn’t want to trek to the Disney area.

SUSHI POP

Who it’s a great spot for: Foodies who live on the East or North side of Orlando, and don’t want to venture too far, but still want a good meal that feels special. They also have an Omakase option for something more celebratory.

Who it’s not for: Anyone that doesn’t live in the Oviedo area, and wants an option closer to them.

NILE ETHIOPIAN

Who it’s a great spot for: Foodies who want to experience something different and aren’t looking for a hot trendy night out on the town.  

Who it’s not for: Anyone that hates I-Drive or picky eaters.

Golden Hour Wine

Who it’s a great spot for: While Golden Hour is not a restaurant, it is still worth a shout out. Serious wine lovers will want to visit this shop for a celebratory purchase, or to sit and sip. Heather, the owner, is a wealth of knowledge and will expertly help you pick out the best bottle for your budget.

Who it’s not for: Non-drinkers.

I hope you find this list helpful, and as I have more celebratory dinners of my own, I will add to this list.

Also I know I have many more places I need to try, don’t yell at me. Eating out is pricey when you don’t attend free dinners!