It’s hard to think that things could ever get boring in Orlando – after all, it is home to some of the most well-known and best-loved amusement parks in the whole world. But whether you live in Orlando and are looking for something new to do or you’re trying to get the most out of your next visit, sometimes you just need to find a restaurant that’s a little bit out of the ordinary.
If you’re looking for unique restaurants in Orlando, you’ve found ‘em. We’ve even done the tough part for you and pulled together everything you need to know about the restaurants on this list – some background info to set the stage, facts you might need to know like the restaurant’s location and website, and we’ve even pulled a snippet from one of the 5-star reviews that helped earn the restaurant its place on our list.
To sweeten the deal even more, we also include links anytime one of these restaurants accept our super convenient virtual gift cards!
In case this is your first time on our blog – or in case you need a refresher – I’ll just take a moment to remind you that GiftYa is a digital gift card that can be sent within seconds right from your phone. These gift cards can be used at a variety of locations but are particularly popular for restaurants.
This is especially true if you are out traveling and don’t love to carry cash around with you. GiftYa links your gift balance to one of the cards you have on you all the time anyway, so you don’t have to worry about carrying around – or worse, losing – a pesky physical gift.
There really isn’t a more convenient option when it comes to buying gift cards and gifts for yourself or others.
But now that that’s all cleared up, we can get back to the main attraction: unique restaurants in Orlando, FL!
8625 International Drive | International Drive | cafetututango.com
Want a dining experience that feels a little bit like an immersive art exhibit? Cafe Tu Tu Tango is the place to be. The festive vibe you get from the name of the cafe carries through everything about the restaurant – from the food, to the drinks, to the atmosphere. There’s artwork everywhere, and Tu Tu Tango is known for festive live dinner performances, including Flamenco dancers.
Cafe Tu Tu Tango has 4.5 stars on Yelp and nearly 4000 reviews as of this writing, which is a pretty strong case for this unique little spot. Locals and visitors alike can’t get enough of the Dynamite Shrimp Lettuce Wraps, so consider adding some to your tab when you stop in!
“Great atmosphere. There was a live artist painting as we arrived and he continued to do so while we ate. (The whole place is full of artwork available to buy and some of it is incredible.)... Definitely recommend you try this. It's hardly hidden but it is a gem!” - Yelp Review
Get a GiftYa digital gift card for yourself or a loved one to Cafe Tu Tu Tango and enjoy one of the most unique restaurants in Orlando by following the link!
351 S Studio Dr | Disney’s Hollywood Studios | disneyworld.disney.go.com
Eating in your car just got a lot more interesting. Forget about sneaking bites of your snack wrap in traffic or sucking down your frappuccino at a red light – at the Sci-Fi Dine-In, you can park yourself in a stylish old school car for a meal that’s nothing short of a wild ride. The restaurant serves all of your favorite American fare – think burgers, fries, dogs, and shakes.
As for entertainment, you can sit back and enjoy the crazy clip show that the Sci-Fi Dine-In has in store. With clips from old sci-fi films, nostalgic cartoons, and more, you’re sure to be entertained your whole meal long.
Note: Since the Sci-Fi Dine-In is located within Disney’s Hollywood Studios, you can’t get to the restaurant without admission to the park.
“This is one of the tougher reservations to get at Disney for good reason. It's so relaxing on a hot day to sit down, have a drink (alcoholic, milkshake, alcoholic milkshake) and a burger and just chill for a bit. The atmosphere is really nice... It's cool, dark, and you don't feel obligated to talk to your family for a little bit.” - Yelp Review
Unfortunately Sci-Fi Drive-in Theater Restaurant isn’t one of the unique restaurants in Orlando participating with GiftYa just yet, but check back soon cause they might be any day now.
5689 Vineland Rd | West Orlando | facebook.com/soupasaiyan
Looking for something different than your usual pho place? Stop into Soupa Saiyan. Inspired by the cult classic Dragon Ball Z television series, the atmosphere here is truly unlike anything else you’ll find in Orlando. Snap a picture with your favorite character from the show, or just sit back and soak in all the Saiyan (and Namekian… and Android…) decor.
Locals love the Korean Fire Bowl and Vietnamese Pho, but you can customize your order to your exact flavor preferences. Soupa Saiyan offers a variety of noodle and broth options so you can create a bowl exactly the way you like it, or you can choose one of their Signature bowls. Plus everything's made to order, so you know your food will be fresh.
“Soup is amazing along with the Cheese Steak Egg Rolls!! Freaking amazingly good!! The atmosphere is cool and the service was Great!!! But food is worthy driving an hour for. We did and we do from Lakeland.” - Yelp Review
Soupa Saiyan isn’t accepting GiftYa digital gift cards just yet, but check here for all the other GiftYa available for unique restaurants in Orlando and all over the country.
1905 N Orange Ave | Ivanhoe | betterthansexdesserts.com
Tired of hitting up the same restaurant every week for date night? Give your next night out a unique twist and treat your honey to something sweet with a reservation at Better Than Sex - A Dessert Restaurant. As the name implies, this spot is dessert only, but we wouldn’t recommend stopping for dinner first. Once you see the decadent drinks and desserts the menu has to offer, you’ll be planning your second visit in no time.
Peanut Butter Silk Pie? Popcorn Cheesecake? There’s no end to the creative (not to mention risque) confections.
Better Than Sex has a few locations around the Southern US, and like a good slow burn romance novel they’re building up to something big. This location in Orlando was voted Best Desserts in The Best of Orlando’s Reader’s Poll 4 years in a row. The Savannah location recently won an award for best late night restaurant, and placed in the finals for best romantic and best dessert restaurant as well.
“Great date night experience or for intimate drinks and dessert with close friends. The ambiance needs to be experienced-the cozy booths, the darkened room and the sensual menu selections make this a spot worth visiting. ” - Yelp Review
Right now you aren’t able to get a GiftYa digital gift card to Better Than Sex, but check back because there’s more unique restaurants and stores in Orlando added all the time.
6000 Universal Blvd | Universal CityWalk | universalorlando.com
One look at The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen, and it’s clear that it’s unlike any of the other restaurants in Orlando’s food scene. With towering smoke stacks and steampunk details even outside, it’s clearly a unique dining option just waiting to be experienced. Inside, the decor continues to build the magic of the Toothstone Emporium, and so do costumed actors.
The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen serves a variety of foods, from all-day brunch (Crepes? Quiche? Yes please) to your traditional dinner surf and turf. But according to guests the real star of the show would have to be the milkshakes, so be sure to save room for dessert.
Note: The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen is located outside Universal Studios on Universal CityWalk, so you don’t need park tickets to get in.
“I ended up at Universal Studios for a Bachelorette party and our trip to the toothsome chocolate emporium was the HIGHLIGHT of the whole trip. The drinks were out of this world. You do not need to go into Universal to enjoy this treasure, it is located in City Walk outside of the park. If you are in Orlando or Universal area this is MUST try!” - Yelp Review
You can’t get a digital GiftYa gift card to The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen at the moment but be sure to check back soon as new unique restaurants and attractions in Orlando are added all the time!
6000 Universal Blvd | Universal’s Islands of Adventure | universalorlando.com
Mythos is not your typical Mediterranean restaurant. For starters, it’s tucked inside of a mountainous facade with faces and waterfalls carved into it. Inside, otherworldly decor keeps the unique vibe going. Visitors can enjoy great views of the park while they eat Greek salad, Pad Thai, burgers, sandwiches, and more (including special options for its youngest guests).
Another unique element about Mythos is how seriously they take customer service. Their chefs are ready and willing to cater to your table’s dietary needs – whether it’s gluten free, dairy free, veggie, or vegan. You can even call ahead (at least 24 hours) to make arrangements for a Kosher or Halal meal.
Note: Mythos Restaurant is located within Universal Studios, so park tickets are required to get in.
“Didn't expect much going to an amusement park restaurant but this was amazing. Really great service,atmosphere and the food was great. Would recommend to try this if your at universal park” - Yelp Review
Mythos Restaurant doesn’t offer GiftYa digital gift cards just yet, but check back soon because we are always adding unique restaurants and attractions in Orlando!
1080 E Alfred St | Tavares | havana1959cubancuisine.com
There are many restaurants in Florida with delicious Cuban cuisine, but one stands out from the back. Havana 1959 Cuban Cuisine is an unassuming restaurant – a locally owned and managed hidden gem. Visitors love the vibrant art that covers the walls and the generous servings. Stop in and see what makes Havana 1959 stand out for yourself!
“Go here for unpretentious yummy Cuban food served by friendly people. We had papas rellenas and croquetas for apps, both delicious and large portions. I had the media noche and my husband the Cuban, both with plantain chips for sides. A small pitcher of sangria to share- not too sweet and with real fruit in it. Everything was excellent.” - Yelp Review
Havana 1959 Cuban Cuisine is one of the thousands of restaurants that accept digital GiftYa gift cards but it is also among one of the highest rated unique restaurants in Orlando!
3201 Corrine Dr Ste 100 | Audubon Park | domufl.squarespace.com
DOMU has been offering house made noodles and creative small plates since 2016. DOMU is a slang term that means “a dream come true” and that is really well reflected in their ambiance. This restaurant is all about going against the grain and creating something unique, and that shows in everything from their food to their decor.
One of DOMU’s specialties is ramen, and they serve their own personal creations as well as traditional options. Their creations include curry ramen, noodles with uni butter sauce rather than broth, and miso broth with unique additions. You can also get classic tonkotsu and even vegan ramen. They also have a nice selection of seasonal cocktails to choose from.
“ The ramen bowls were full of deliciousness and I didn't even have to ask for extra noodles like most places. It may be because they make their noodles in house. The seared meat, whether chicken or pork, was perfection. I left full and satisfied enough to know it is worth the wait and the trip.”–Yelp Review
Send a GiftYa gift card for Hash House A Go Go
5350 International Dr | Millenia | hashhouseagogo.com
Hash House A Go Go is a famous home of twisted farm food and crafted cocktails. Their food is Midwest inspired and has been served in this area for over 20 years. This restaurant offers the type of experience that you won’t find anywhere else. They always stick to the best of ingredients and represent their culture very well. They always provide their customers with good service and overall a really good time!
“Whenever we stop in Orlando this is a must before we head home. The staff, the food, the portions, the comfortable feeling you get as soon as you sit down is unmatched by anyone. I love you Hash House A Go Go!”–Yelp Review
Send a GiftYa gift card for Hash House A Go Go
Send a GiftYa gift card for Taverna Opal
9101 International Dr | Orlando | opaorlando.com
Taverna Opa Orlando offers customers a unique dining experience. They serve Greek food so good, you will think you’re right in Greece. They bring the Mediterranean into Tampa by importing their cheeses, olives, and oils directly from Greece. They are loved for their lamb chops and daily fresh selection of seafood, which are among customer’s favorite items.
Many of their menu items are made from scratch. Some of these items are hummus, Greek yogurt, tzatziki, and dolmades. They also offer nightly entertainment! They always have Greek and Mediterranean music playing while belly dancers dance around the restaurant.
“Food was wonderful. We came here because of the reviews on the food and it did not disappoint. We had the hummus, & pita, fried zucchini, and grape leaves for an appetizer. It opened our senses with a variety of aromas and tasted just as wonderful.”–Yelp Review
Send a GiftYa gift card for Taverna Opal
1103 Mills Ave N | Colonial Town North | eathawkers.com
Hawkers Asian Street Food serves up unapologetic flavors that excite their customer’s senses. Their recipes and ingredients are generations old and make you feel as if you’re on a culinary adventure around the world. They have food from several different Asian cultures. They have great food, delicious drinks, and a fun atmosphere. They offer roti, wings, noodles, and so much more.
Hawker’s street food is made from recipes that have been passed down from generation to generation. The wok technique they use produces amazing results that delights all five senses. You’ll be glad to have visited this place!
“OK! LISTEN UP! If you love Asian food and I mean any Asian food, you need to check this place out! I was extremely blown away at the overall experience here! I can't wait to come back for more!”–Yelp Review
1326 N Mills Ave | Park Lake/ Lake Highland | pigfloyds.com
Pig Floyd’s Urban BBQ is where you will find smoked meat, cold beer, and remixed recipes. You will have your choice of unique menu items. This food is remixed BBQ recipes served in uncommon ways. You can order food in bento boxes, bahn-mi sandwiches, and Cuban black beans with rice, which isn’t super common for most BBQ restaurants. They even have tacos, and you can always try their butter chicken taco slathered in tikka masala sauce. This BBQ fusion food is unlike food you will find any place else!
This restaurant is so passionate about food, they even have their own podcast! Listeners tune in regularly to hear food lovers and experts discuss their involvement in the food world. It’s always a great idea to enjoy food from a restaurant driven by its passion for food.
“A few years since my last review and I still enjoy dining here. The food is still just as excellent but I have to say the STAFF! The fries are still amazing as ever and the Sweet tea is SWEET TEA!”–Yelp Review
There you have it! All the best-rated unique restaurants you can find in Orlando.
Orlando is a major hub of business and commerce so it isn’t easy to narrow down the list of great unique restaurants to only what can fit in this post. But just from what we gathered for you here today you’ll be sure to find a location that works for you.
And remember, if you or someone you love is out in Orlando, we marked off which of these unique restaurants accept convenient GiftYa digital gift cards. And don’t forget to check back – we’re always adding more restaurants and attractions to our catalog, and featuring more fun things to do in Orlando and all over the country on the GiftYa blog.
There you have it! All the best-rated unique restaurants you can find in Orlando.
Orlando is a major hub of business and commerce so it isn’t easy to narrow down the list of great unique restaurants to only what can fit in this post. But just from what we gathered for you here today you’ll be sure to find a location that works for you.
And remember, if you or someone you love is out in Orlando, we marked off which of these unique restaurants accept convenient GiftYa digital gift cards. And don’t forget to check back – we’re always adding more restaurants and attractions to our catalog, and featuring more fun things to do in Orlando and all over the country on the GiftYa blog.
