Ming Court

Description:

• Local patronage and a diverse menu make this one of Orlando's most popular Chinese restaurants (which has racked up awards and praise from a host of respected international food critics). Start off with the duck lettuce cup before going on to the lightly battered, deep-fried chicken breast -- it's got plenty of zip from a delicate lemon-tangerine sauce. If you're in the mood for beef, there's a grilled filet mignon that's seasoned Szechuan-style (the topping has toasted onions, garlic, and chile). The mildly innovative menu is extensive, featuring the freshest ingredients (there's not a freezer on-site). Portions are sufficient, there's a moderate wine list, and the service is quite good. The candlelit interior is decorated in soft earth tones and creates a romantic atmosphere. Glass-walled terrace rooms overlook lotus ponds filled with colorful koi, and a plant-filled area under a lofty skylight ceiling. A musician plays classical Chinese music on a zheng (a long zither) at dinner. The children's menu features a boxed meal featuring your choice of Oriental-style shrimp, pork, beef, or chicken (and french fries!), and comes with a story for kids to read along with their dinner. Tip: The restaurant's recently updated and improved website is extensive and features lots of information on and photos of individual dishes.

• © Frommer's 2012

Awards:

Frommer's

•  Highly Recommended 2010