by L.S. Watts

Created on: November 18, 2010

Whether you are on vacation in Orlando, Florida or a local, there are several restaurants across the city that are great for celebrating the Thanksgiving holidays. However, only a few of these restaurants stand out above all the others. Some are buffet style, whereas others have a more elegant flair to them.

Mimi’s Cafe

Located at 4175 Millenia Boulevard, Mimi’s Cafe is a great place for the entire family. They are open from 7:00 am to 10:00 pm serving for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Thanksgiving dinner is reasonably priced for the amount of food that is served directly to your table. Adult pricing is $14.95 and children are only $6.99. There are several starters to choose from. For the main course you are served turkey and gravy with five sides and a seasonal bread basket. To complete the meal you will have three desserts to choose from. Mimi’s is reservation only so you will need to call them ahead of time to reserve a table. They can be reached at (407) 370-0333.

Swan and Dolphin

Walt Disney World opens up their Garden Grove Cafe to the public on Thanksgiving. For families with children, this is a wonderful place to spend your Thanksgiving meal. They are open from 1:00 pm to 9:00 pm. It is a buffet style setting with a variety of traditional Thanksgiving foods to choose from. They also have a special menu designed specifically with children in mind. The best part about the Garden Grove at the Swan and Dolphin Resort is they will have a variety of Disney characters on hand to entertain children of all ages. The cost of the buffet is $35.95 for adults and older children, $15.95 for children ages 3 to 9, and children under the age of 3 are free. Garden Grove is located at 1200 Epcot Resorts Boulevard. For more information, you can call (407) 934-1609.

Cappriccio Grill

The Cappriccio Grill is located within The Peabody. The Peabody is located at 9801 International Drive. Traditionally an Italian Steakhouse, the Cappriccio Grill serves a Thanksgiving Champagne Brunch from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm. There are several courses and each course has quite the variety to choose from. First you start with cold hors d’oeuvres. Next is a large selection of specialties. Then you are served the main dish with a variety of accompaniments. Finally you are served traditional sweets and pastries, along with an after dinner beverage such as champagne, coffee, or tea. Adults are $59.95, children 6 to 12 years is $25.00, and under the age of 6 are free. To make a reservation, you can call 1-800-PEABODY.

Norman’s

Located at 4012 Central Florida Parkway, within the Ritz-Carlton Hotel, Norman’s is a more elegant way to celebrate Thanksgiving. They serve a three course meal each Thanksgiving from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm. It is definitely pricey though. Adults are $85.00 and children are $35.00. Although reservations are not required, it is highly recommended. To make a reservation, simply call (407) 393-4333.

The Tropicale

The Tropicale is located inside CaribeRoyale All-Suites Hotel and Convention Center at 8101 World Center Drive. From 2:00 pm to 8:00 pm not only can you enjoy a Thanksgiving buffet, but you can also enjoy live music playing holiday jazz favorites. Since space is limited, you must make a reservation. Adults are $44.00 and children ages 3 to 9 are $15.00. To make your holiday reservations call, (407) 238-8020.

When it comes down to it, it just depends on your personal preferences are and the size of your wallet. So whether you are looking for a great place for family or a dinner designed for style and grace, Orlando has something to offer everyone each Thanksgiving.

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