Dining in SeaWorld Orlando

By Lisa Fritscher

One of the biggest misconceptions carried by first time visitors to the Orlando area is the idea of “theme park food.” Many guests assume that theme parks resemble giant carnivals, with the food to match -- greasy hot dogs and hamburgers and high fat desserts. While it is certainly possible to find those foods at modern theme parks, they are not the only, or even the most prevalent, option. Today’s theme parks pride themselves on taking dining to the next level, offering five star restaurant choices, hiring well known chefs, and even breaking new ground with their fusion offerings.

SeaWorld Orlando is no exception. From wood fired pizzas and slow cooked barbecue to pan seared red snapper and filet mignon, SeaWorld Orlando offers a plethora of dining options designed to appeal to its broad range of visitors.

Families with children will love the special dinner packages. Perhaps the adults want a relaxed, gourmet meal while the children are entertained? Then choose the Parents Dine, Kids Party package. This package includes an upscale dinner at Shark’s Underwater Grill for the adults and a pizza party and themed activities for the children.

If you would rather eat together, and some members of your family tend to eat a lot, try the All-You-Care-to-Eat Family Picnic. This relaxed buffet is held in air conditioned comfort, while retaining many of the wonderful qualities of a traditional family picnic.

For a true VIP experience, try the Backstage at Believe…Dine with Shamu option. This buffet meal is served poolside at the killer whale habitat. You will be seated at a reserved table in an area that is restricted to trainers and VIP participants only.

For a taste of the islands, nothing beats the Makahiki Luau, held nightly at sunset inside the Seafire Inn. A complete Polynesian show and celebration accompanies your traditional island meal. A special version of the Luau is held during the Christmas season.

To book any of the above dining packages, please call 1-800-327-2424 or book online at www.seaworldorlando.com. Reservations are limited and tend to book quickly during the more crowded seasons, so be sure to call as soon as possible.

For regular in-park dining, your options abound. SeaWorld Orlando offers a true fine dining experience at Shark’s Underwater Grill. You will be seated in the midst of a large aquarium, brightly colored fish and a variety of sharks surrounding you. Choose from seafood options such as red snapper or land-based options such as filet mignon. Be sure to leave room for the succulent desserts as well. Shark’s Underwater Grill also offers a children’s menu, featuring such kid-friendly choices as hot dogs and chicken tenders.

Family dining brings a host of choices. How about wood fired pizzas? Head over to Voyagers, located in a rustic seaside village along the waterfront. Voyagers’ menu is rather extensive, encompassing a variety of Mediterranean dishes in addition to pizza.

Perhaps you are craving barbecue. In that case, make your way to Smoky Creek. Located in a small barbecue shack near Sea Lion and Otter Stadium, Smoky Creek is considered to have some of the best barbecue in the Orlando area.

The Seafire Inn by night is home to the Polynesian Luau. During the day, however, the Seafire is known as a one stop destination for a variety of international cuisine. From Cajun to Chinese to Cuban, the Seafire Inn is sure to offer something for everyone. The restaurant is located on the waterfront.

The Spice Mill, also found on the waterfront, is the place to go for a taste of the islands. Caribbean foods prevail, and almost everything on the menu is spicy. A full kids’ menu is available as well.

The Hospitality Deli offers sandwiches that are specifically crafted to pair with the Anheuser-Busch beers that are available for sampling. Stroll through the small museum, then choose your favorite brew and enjoy a sandwich.

Mango Joe’s, located near Wild Arctic, is the place to go for fajitas, wraps, and other island favorites. Enjoy the unusual décor and casual island attitude, while musing over the juxtaposition of an Arctic voyage and island cuisine.

Mama’s Kitchen, near the Penguin Encounter, offers a full menu of healthy, home-made choices. From turkey on wheat to a vegetarian salad sandwich, Mama’s Kitchen offers a nice change from the heavy, calorie laden fare often consumed by travelers.

Quick service food and snack stands are abundant throughout the park. Whether you are in the mood for a giant pretzel, a bag of popcorn, or even a turkey leg, you never need to walk far to satisfy your craving. Hot dogs and ice cream are other popular snack cart fare.

If you want a more gourmet experience with which to satisfy your sweet tooth, you have plenty of options from which to choose. Visit Cypress Bakery near the Front Entrance Plaza for a variety of cookies, muffins, and many other sweet treats. Super Size Soft Serve is the perfect place for a large ice cream with all the trimmings. Super Size is located in Penguin Plaza, making it the perfect midday retreat. Candy stores, gourmet coffee shops, and snow cone stops are just a few of the other tempting sweet shop alternatives.

No matter what type and style of food you prefer, SeaWorld Orlando is able to deliver. Same day reservations are suggested at Shark’s Underwater Grill, while most other restaurants are counter service and may host long lines. Nonetheless, the food is definitely worth the wait.