Victoria & Albert’s

***** (5 stars)

Chef Scott Hunnel has created a dining experience that rivals the best restaurants in the US, possibly the world. The seven course menu provides two or three selections for each course, emphasizing fresh ingredients that work together, yet also allow you to savor each flavor and understand why it was used to create the whole.

The chef’s table in the kitchen provides an even more extensive experience.

The matching wine pairings are an excellent way to enhance the meal. Manager Israel Perez has thoughtfully selected often surprising and always delightful wines to match each course.

The dining room is lush, spacious, and romantic, and the service is both professional and friendly. There is no hint of the Disney ambiance, just the sort of perfection one expects from a five star experience.

Pricing is quite reasonable for the top notch experience you’re guaranteed. I can say “guaranteed” with some confidence, since I’ve never had less than a perfect meal in dozens of visits. Highly recommended.

Victoria & Albert’s
4401 Floridian Way
Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
(407) 939-7707
http://www.yelp.com/biz/victoria-and-alberts-lake-buena-vista

Tabla Bar and Grill

***** (5 stars)

Don’t be put off by the somewhat tired looking Days Inn next door. Tabla offers the most sophisticated Indian dining you’ll find in Orlando, and perhaps anywhere in the US. The complexity of each entree is amazing, with gourmet twists on old favorites, and lots of creative surprises. Ask for the avocado and mint sauce to dip your papadums in! Lunch is a particular bargain, with a multi course meal starting at just $7. Desserts are a specialty. The mango tempura with coconut gelato is amazing.

Tabla Bar and Grill
5827 Caravan Ct
Orlando, FL 32819
(407) 248-9400
http://www.yelp.com/biz/tabla-bar-and-grill-orlando