News Summary
Orlando is set to host the 20th Annual Magical Dining Festival from August 15 to September 30, featuring over 160 restaurants. Diners can indulge in three-course prix-fixe menus while supporting local charities, with proceeds benefiting the REED Charitable Foundation. Noteworthy restaurants and kid-friendly options will enhance this culinary experience which includes outdoor dining. With exciting activities and exclusive hotel deals, this festival promises to be a celebration of food and community.
Orlando is preparing to welcome food lovers from across Central Florida as the 20th Annual Magical Dining Festival kicks off on August 15 and runs through September 30, 2025. This milestone event celebrates two decades of culinary experiences, showcasing a record over 160 restaurants participating in its special dining promotion.
During the festival, diners can enjoy three-course prix-fixe menus priced at $40 or $60, which exclude tax and gratuity. This year’s festival has seen significant growth, with 24 new restaurants joining the lineup and 15 establishments recognized by the MICHELIN Guide included in the event.
A noteworthy aspect of the festival is its commitment to giving back; a portion of the proceeds supports local charities. Specifically, $1 from each $40 meal and $2 from each $60 meal will be donated to local nonprofits. The main beneficiary for this year is the REED Charitable Foundation, which works to enhance early childhood literacy by providing access to reading instruction through affordable educator training. Since its inception in 2009, Magical Dining has raised nearly $3 million for local organizations, contributing $352,218 to sustainable community efforts last year alone.
With a vast array of dining options, the festival features well-known restaurants such as AVA MediterrAegean, Kaya, and The Ravenous Pig. For the 20th anniversary, select restaurants will offer a special 20th-anniversary dish. Additionally, the festival accommodates families, allowing for kid-friendly dining options.
Guests can anticipate an enhanced dining experience, as the event permits outdoor dining and takeout options at selected venues. There are also opportunities to book exclusive hotel deals, making it a perfect occasion for staycationers seeking a culinary escape.
In terms of entertainment, participating restaurants will offer unique activities such as cultural experiences and performances, including belly dancing at Helena Modern Riviera. Key dining locations span across popular areas like Downtown Orlando, Winter Park, I-Drive, and even restaurants located near Disney.
Online reservations can be made easily through orlandomagicaldining.com, where diners can utilize filters to customize their culinary experience based on location, price, and dietary preferences. Given the excitement surrounding this year’s festival, early reservations are strongly encouraged, particularly for the more popular restaurant locations to ensure a spot during this sought-after event.
The 20th Annual Magical Dining Festival not only promises to deliver an exceptional culinary experience but also aims to foster community involvement and support meaningful local initiatives through its charitable partnerships. As Central Florida gears up for this annual celebration, both food enthusiasts and community supporters are set to savor the flavors while making a positive impact.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- Visitorlando: Christina Petsos Magical Dining Picks
- Orlando Date Night Guide: Magical Dining
- Disney Tourist Blog: 2025 Magical Dining Month
- Orange Observer: Magical Dining 2025
- Click Orlando: 160 Restaurants Join Magical Dining
- Wikipedia: Orlando
- Google Search: Magical Dining Festival Orlando
- Google Scholar: Magical Dining Orlando
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Restaurant
- Google News: Magical Dining Orlando

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.