An Orlando Guy's Weekend

Our Local Expert Says:

Great downtown location, with a cool jazz bar, a grand piano, and a boutique hotel feel, though it's owned by Westin

Description:

Downtown Orlando's jewel opened in spring 2001 (as a Westin property, now however it is part of the Kessler collection) with an early-20th-century Euro-Bohemian theme. It caters almost exclusively to the business and romance crowds, which means -- much to the satisfaction of the adult guests here -- you'll find almost no children on the premises. The comfortable and plush rooms have an Art Deco look with plenty of chrome and reds or purples. The upper floors on the east side overlook the pool; those on the north side face downtown. The classy hotel, which is entirely smoke-free, has more than 100 pieces of 19th- and 20th-century American fine art, and its lounge features a rare Imperial Grand Bosendorfer Piano -- one of only two in the world and valued at a cool quarter of a million. The downside: You'll have to pay for transportation to all of the theme parks.

Description:

The Kres Chophouse is housed in a downtown Orlando staple known as the historic Kress Building which was built in 1935. This historic treasure's architecture has been preserved adds great appeal to the Kres Chophouse. Come in for a delicious lunch, upscale happy hour or a luxurious dinner. Opt for the creamy tomato basil or the Wagyu Kobe Beef carpaccio plate with thinly sliced beef, capers, remoulade, Parmesan cheese, roasted pine nuts, tomatoes and sun-dried cranberries. The black and blue tenderloin sandwich with Dolce Gorgonzola cheese, lettuce, tomato and onion served with crispy fries and spicy ketchup is to die for and the Tenderloin Medallion Pasta with pancetta, spinach, roasted peppers and peas in a pene rigate paired with a Parmesan cream sauce might tempt you to lick your plate. Naturally, their steaks and chops are scrumptious and the market fish is always delicious. Kres Chophouse will quickly become one of your favorites. 

Description:

Located in the heart of downtown Orlando, Ember t is a Mediterranean-styled ultra bar and restaurant. The décor features large columns and archways, earth tones, wrought iron, Spanish tile, leather chairs, low lighting and other dark island touches. Ember has the largest outside covered and open patio area downtown. Choose from any of the three bars located on various levels outside or any of the available seating inside. Relax and enjoy a drink or a quick meal from the menu of burgers, flatbread pizzas, quesadillas and more. The entertainment includes several big screen televisions located throughout alongside soft background music. - Diane Dilov-Schultheis

Description:

Dubsdread is a short, fairly easy public track. It's a good walking course at a bargain price. It is narrow, and there is some water. The greens are sloping and elevated. Two of the par-5s are very short. They barely exceed 400 yards. The par-3s are short as well, although one is guarded by a lake. One of the par-4s measures a scant 297 yards. Metal spikes are tolerated but not encouraged.

Description:

One visit to the Tap Room at Dubsdread is all anyone needs to see why this establishment has been a critic's favorite for more than a decade. The local foodie 'two thumbs up' response is likely owing to the steadfast menu but the historically charming milieu definitely amps up the experience. Burgers, flatbreads, steaks, and fresh seafood are munched on the stunning covered verandah surrounded by towering 100 year old oaks where it's likely a weekend wedding will be taking place nearby. Located on the grounds of Orlando's oldest public golf course, the Tap Room is filled with all sorts of rustic nuances that make the locale simply unforgettable.

Description:

The Capital Grille wants to be "your place." The spot you most want to come to, whether for a special occasion or just the perfect dinner out. They strive to make every occasion special. They serve dry-aged steaks that have earned high praise from the nation's toughest food critics, and have an award-winning wine list. Mouth-watering appetizers, fresh seafood, chops. Irresistible desserts. They match the food with out-of-this-world service and a comfortable, relaxed ambiance that's a world away from the routine.

Description:

After creating waves in Cincinatti, this nightclub has been doing the same in Orlando. A regular haunt for locals since its inception, it's the tunes played on the two centerstage pianos that keep guests highly entertained. A 'Showtime' special is announced every hour, in which employees and guests alike dance to the tunes of popular television shows and commercial jingles. Take your pick from the very innovative drinks menu - while the Sour Apple Martini will make you "pucker up and howl", the Electric Lemonade is "the most ELECTRIFYING cocktail in nightlife entertainment". So come on down and get ready to howl!

Description:

If car racing is on your agenda, this is the place to be. Founded by ex-Nascar champ, Richard Petty along with his Australian friend Barry Graham, Richard Petty Driving Experience (RPDE), designed to simulate Nascar racing provides high end sports entertainment. With 20 locations in the US, RPDE is the first choice for many who would love to hit high speeds - the safe way. RPDE has many individual and group programs. With 4 choices of Ride-along, Rookie Experience, Kings Experience and Experience of a Lifetime, it covers all skill levels. Do reserve in advance!