August 26, 2025

Orlando Celebrates 20 Years of Magical Dining

News Summary

Orlando, Florida, is celebrating the 20th anniversary of Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining program. Running through September 2025, it features over 160 Central Florida restaurants offering specially curated three-course meals, with proceeds supporting local charities focused on childhood literacy. This initiative has raised nearly $3 million since its inception in 2009, solidifying Orlando as a key foodie destination while benefiting community causes.

Orlando, Florida, is celebrating the 20th anniversary of Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining program, which kicked off on August 15 and will run through September 30, 2025. This beloved annual event showcases over 160 Central Florida restaurants, including 24 new establishments and 15 recognized by the Michelin Guide. Diners participating in this culinary initiative can indulge in specially curated three-course meals priced at either $40 or $60 per person, with the costs excluding tax and gratuity.

A portion of the proceeds from each meal contributes to local charities, with $1 being donated from each $40 meal and $2 from each $60 meal. This year, funds raised through the Magical Dining program will support the REED Charitable Foundation and other nonprofit organizations that focus on enhancing childhood literacy. The REED Charitable Foundation aims to provide accessible reading instruction for children, furthering its mission to foster education within the community.

Since its inception in 2009, the Magical Dining program has successfully raised nearly $3 million for various charitable organizations in the Orlando area, solidifying its role in both promoting local dining and contributing to the community.

Participating restaurants this year include popular spots like AVA MediterrAegean, which had a packed house serving around 300 customers on a rainy Thursday evening. Known for its unique dining experience, AVA MediterrAegean offers a variety of Mediterranean dishes, including the flame-grilled Halloumi cheese and a Greek salad made with imported feta cheese. Chef Michaël Michaelidis, with an impressive career that includes winning 26 Michelin stars, emphasizes simplicity in his culinary creations.

The Magical Dining menu at AVA MediterrAegean features an array of appetizers, entrees, and desserts available for a limited time. Notable appetizer options include saganaki (flame-grilled Halloumi), crispy zucchini, and tuna tartare. Diners can also enjoy popular main courses such as Santorini Wild Shrimp Arrabbiata and a 7-ounce hanger steak. To top off the dining experience, dessert selections include a molten chocolate lava cake, with some dishes incorporating locally sourced ingredients.

The Magical Dining program not only highlights the diverse culinary scene in Orlando but also encourages diners to explore new dining options while simultaneously benefiting local charities. This initiative is part of a broader movement recognizing Orlando as a burgeoning foodie destination, thanks to events like Magical Dining that spotlight the area’s rich and varied food culture.

As the program continues through the end of September 2025, both locals and visitors are invited to partake in this delicious quest of flavors while contributing to meaningful charitable efforts within the community. The combination of exceptional dining options, charitable contributions, and the celebration of culinary innovation makes Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining program a significant highlight in Central Florida’s annual event calendar.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Orlando’s Magical Dining Celebrates 20th Anniversary
Orlando’s Tourism Industry Achieves Record Economic Impact
Orlando’s Food Scene Expands with New Dining Concepts
Orlando’s Magical Dining Month Celebrates 20 Years
Orlando Welcomes 20th Annual Magical Dining Festival
Orlando Hosts 1 Million Meals Packing Event to Combat Food Insecurity
Magical Dining Returns for 20th Anniversary in Orlando
Orlando restaurants get national and local acclaim as Twenty Pho Hour joins Michelin Guide and Saigon Noodle wins Critic’s Choice
Orlando Schools Host Back-to-School Family Events
Orlando Expands Dining and Entertainment Scene

Additional Resources

Author: STAFF HERE ORLANDO WRITER

ORLANDO STAFF WRITER The ORLANDO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOrlando.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Orlando, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, Megacon Orlando, and Central Florida Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Orlando Economic Partnership and Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Metro Orlando, plus leading businesses in leisure and hospitality that power the local economy such as Walt Disney World Resort, AdventHealth, and Universal Orlando. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.

ADD MORE INFORMATION OR CONTRIBUTE TO OUR ARTICLE CLICK HERE!

STAFF HERE ORLANDO WRITER

Stay Connected

More Updates

Would You Like To Add Your Business?

Submit