Magical Dining’s Most Loyal Star: Why Everglades Restaurant is a Must-Visit This Season
Everglades is the only restaurant continuously participating every year since Magical Dining's inception.
Courtesy Everglades Restaurant
In a city that’s constantly reinventing itself—with new eateries cropping up like sunflowers in July—there’s something both rare and wonderful about tradition. This year, as Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining celebrates its 20th anniversary, one local gem stands out for its unwavering commitment to Orlando causes: Everglades Restaurant at Rosen Centre Hotel, the only restaurant to have participated every single year since the program began.
Let that sink in: Every year. For 20 years.
While Orlando’s dining landscape has transformed around it, Everglades has remained a steady, sumptuous presence on International Drive, proving that consistency can be just as exciting as novelty—especially when it comes with alligator chowder and a six-layer chocolate ganache cake.
Courtesy Everglades Restaurant
A Taste of Florida, A Touch of Magic
Magical Dining, presented by Orlando Health, is one of Central Florida’s most beloved culinary traditions. It features prix-fixe menus at $40 or $60 a head, with a donation of $1 per $40 dinner or $2 per $60 dinner to the Reed Charitable Foundation and its mission to improve the lives of children with dyslexia and help end the literacy crisis. It’s a way to dine lavishly while giving generously—a perfect fit for Everglades, which has always balanced indulgence with intention.
As you step into the restaurant, you’re immersed in an atmosphere inspired by the Florida wilderness—soft lighting, natural textures and quiet elegance. It feels like dining in the heart of a cypress grove, but with white linens and expertly poured wine.
Courtesy Everglades Restaurant
What’s On the Menu?
This year’s Magical Dining offerings are a delicious showcase of what Everglades does best: Florida-forward cuisine with refined flair at just $60 for three incredible courses.
Start with a steaming bowl of Alligator Bay Chowder, comforted by Applewood Smoked Bacon, or try the Watermelon and Pistachio-Crusted Goat Cheese, finished with a chocolate balsamic glaze that somehow makes you rethink everything you thought you knew about salad.
For your main course, the Black Angus Filet is a classic crowd-pleaser, but the Chilean Sea Bass and Char-Grilled Halibut bring the coastal elegance. These aren’t just proteins—they’re a love letter to Florida’s bounty, prepared with creativity and reverence.
And then… dessert. The Tiramisu Martini (yes, you read that right) is both playful and decadent, while the Tropical Cheesecake and Six-Layer Chocolate Ganache Cake round out the meal like a standing ovation.
Courtesy Everglades Restaurant
Why It Matters
Yes, the food is divine. But Everglades’ legacy isn’t just about what’s on the plate. It’s about why they do it.
Rosen Centre is known for its commitment to sustainability—earning a Two Palm Green Lodge designation—and for giving back to the Orlando community. This ethos shines brightest during Magical Dining. As the restaurant’s general manager Phil Caronia puts it: “It’s the right thing to do.”
That kind of heart, coupled with two decades of culinary excellence, makes Everglades more than a restaurant. It’s a piece of Orlando’s soul.
Courtesy Everglades Restaurant
Plan Your Visit
Magical Dining runs from August 16 to September 30, and tables at Everglades tend to book quickly during this popular season. Complimentary self-parking makes the evening even easier. To reserve your table, visit rosencentre.com or call (407) 996-9840.
Pro tip: Go for the chowder, stay for the tiramisu martini and toast to 20 years of delicious tradition. Some things never go out of style—and Everglades is living, breathing, chocolate-drizzled proof.
