Orlando’s dining scene goes far beyond familiar chains. If you’re looking to step away from the predictable and experience something uniquely local while you’re in town for the 2026 NAHB International Builders’ Show® (IBS), these restaurants deliver memorable food and atmosphere. From chef-driven kitchens to longtime Orlando favorites, here are standout spots worth building into your evening plans.
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Café Tu Tu Tango
Located on International Drive, Café Tu Tu Tango feels like an artist’s loft crossed with a tapas bar. The eclectic décor sets the stage for a menu built around small plates (tapas), making it ideal for sharing with colleagues after a long show day. Expect bold flavors, creative presentations and a lively, social vibe that keeps conversations flowing well past dessert.
Vito’s Chop House
A locally owned Orlando institution, Vito’s Chop House offers classic steakhouse elegance with Italian influences. Known for prime steaks, fresh seafood and an impressive wine list, it’s a popular choice for client dinners and celebratory meals. The atmosphere is refined without feeling stuffy, striking the right balance for business and pleasure.
The Ravenous Pig
Located in nearby Winter Park, The Ravenous Pig is a cornerstone of Orlando’s chef-driven dining scene. This modern gastropub focuses on seasonal ingredients, house-made charcuterie and inventive takes on comfort food. It’s a great option if you want to experience Orlando beyond the convention corridor and enjoy a thoughtfully crafted meal.
Prato
Also in Winter Park, Prato delivers rustic Italian cuisine in a warm, bustling setting. Wood-fired pizzas, handmade pastas and expertly prepared vegetables anchor the menu, while the open kitchen adds energy to the space. It’s a favorite for relaxed group dinners that still feel elevated.
Kadence
For a truly special dining experience, Kadence offers an intimate, chef-led omakase sushi experience that consistently ranks among Orlando’s best. With limited seating and meticulous attention to detail, this is a destination meal for those willing to schedule in advance. Expect precision, artistry and flavors that linger long after the last course.
Linda’s La Cantina Steakhouse
A longtime local favorite, Linda’s La Cantina is known for its no-frills approach to great steak. The focus here is squarely on quality cuts, perfectly cooked, served in a classic, old-school steakhouse atmosphere. If you value substance over spectacle, this spot delivers every time.
Santiago’s Bodega
Santiago’s Bodega brings Spanish-inspired tapas and a vibrant neighborhood feel to Orlando. The menu encourages sharing, with everything from seafood and meats to inventive vegetarian plates. It’s an excellent choice for small groups who want variety, bold flavors and a lively dining room.
Se7en Bites
For something more casual and distinctly Orlando, Se7en Bites is beloved for its Southern-inspired comfort food and indulgent desserts. While best known for breakfast and lunch, it’s worth mentioning for those extending their stay or grabbing a memorable meal outside show hours. Think bold flavors, generous portions and unapologetic nostalgia.
Orlando’s dining scene offers plenty of ways to elevate your evenings after the show, whether you’re hosting clients, meeting up with colleagues or simply rewarding yourself after a full day on the show floor. Step off the beaten path, explore a little and enjoy the flavors that make Orlando more than just a convention city.
Still need to register for IBS 2026?