Emeril's Restaurant Orlando

Location

Universal Orlando Resort

Entrée Range

$21-$45

Summary

Owner Emeril Lagasse gained popularity from his show on Food Network, and his restaurants were instant hits. But the food proves he’s more than a flash in the proverbial pan. Lagasse also has restaurants in New Orleans and Las Vegas, so it’s unlikely he will be on the premises, though he does visit sometimes. But even when he’s not there, you’re in for some good eating.

If you want a taste of Emeril's "bam" without the big bill, the lunch menu offers entrees like shrimp & grits or mussels & frites for a more digestible $14-$19. Specials are frequently run offering a free appetizer or dessert with any entree purchase for valid park admission holders (including annual passholders), and a daily happy hour at the bar from 4 to 8 p.m. with half-priced drinks and affordable small plates can also help soften the sting.

Note: Reservations can be hard to come by during peak season or major conventions unless booked weeks in advance. To get a table on the same day as your visit, call the restaurant at 3:15 p.m.

Setting and Atmosphere

Not to be confused with Emeril's fancier and more expensive Asian-inspired Tchoup Chop at the nearby Royal Pacific Resort, Emeril's Orlando is the Florida outpost of Emeril Lagasse's New Orleans restaurant. Probably the best food and best wine list within CityWalk, the food is Louisiana-style with creative flair. The main dining room is two stories high and features hardwood floors, wooden beams, and stone walls, all of which act as sounding boards for the noisy dining room. Sliding glass doors lead to the kitchen, where Emeril probably won’t be cooking. Part of the kitchen is open, and there are eight seats at a food bar—some of the best seats in the house.

House Specialties

The menu changes frequently. The smoked wild and exotic mushroom appetizer is one of the menu highlights. The banana cream pie dessert will renew your faith in humanity. Items that might be available include gumbo; slow-braised lamb shank; and andouille crusted redfish.

Menus

• Dinner Menu (Table-Service)
• Lunch Menu (Table-Service)
• Wine Menu (Table-Service)
• Happy Hour Menu (Table-Service)
• Desserts and After Dinner Drink Menu
• Kid's Menu (Table-Service)

Details

Requires Credit Card to Reserve: No
Requires Pre-payment in Full: No

Photos