Discover 20+ Restaurants Near UCF!

What you can find around the University of Central Florida (UCF) is a complete culinary wonderland. We recently dropped off our son to attend school there, and as we’ll be visiting often, we were curious as to the restaurants near UCF and it’s campus.

Restaurants serve over 70,000 students and professors, including brave foodies seeking the best gastronomic masterpieces to satisfy their cravings and busy people who are just looking for something to eat that fits their budget.

Whether your taste buds are craving the intense flavor of blue cheese pizzas or powerful bites of spicy rice bowls, you don’t have to go far from campus. Here’s an extensive list of the best restaurants near UCF. Check it out!

Where to Eat Around UCF

These are some of the best places to find great food if you’re dining near UCF!

Lazy Moon

At Lazy Moon, you can craft your own massive, made-to-order pizza, such as the Boxcar Willy and Six Guns, with a dough starter that was born in 2024, unique toppings, and delicious homemade sauce.

The laid-back atmosphere, giant slices, and art-filled premises make it a favorite for hungry UCF students and a perfect place to share a delicious meal with friends.

Don’t forget the craft beer and cocktail selection and other popular menu items, such as the calzones, for a complete experience.

Visit Lazy Moon at 11551 University Blvd, Orlando, FL 32817, or lazymoonpizza.com.

Huey Magoo’s

Huey Magoo’s is the ideal place to find crispy, hand-breaded chicken tenders, made fresh with high-quality and safe ingredients!

This restaurant is known for its signature sauces, such as the tangy “Magoo’s Sauce” or the spicy “Sweet Heat.”

If you want a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner, Huey Magoo’s can be a great option. Besides tenders, its delicious food includes sandwiches, wraps, salads, and a variety of sides to complement your meal, such as cheese dip and fresh-cut chips. 

Visit Huey Magoo’s at UCF Student Union Bldg, 52 Pegasus Dr, Orlando, FL 32816, or hueymagoos.com.

Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant

You can enjoy a sophisticated dining experience with contemporary American cuisine expertly paired with award-winning wines at Cooper’s Hawk.

From succulent steaks and fresh seafood to exquisite house-made truffles and other desserts, each plate this restaurant offers is crafted with the finest ingredients.

Besides an inviting ambiance, there’s a tasting room with an extensive wine list, which make Cooper’s Hawk the perfect place for a special occasion or romantic dinner.

Visit Cooper’s Hawk at 529 N Alafaya Trail, Orlando, FL 32828, or chwinery.com.

The Omelet Bar

At The Omelet Bar, you can start your day with a delicious omelet made with farm-fresh eggs and your choice of fillings, from classic to creative and bold combinations, such as the “Bostonian” with lobster and the “Rancher” with pepperoni, sausage, and black beans. 

This restaurant’s menu also features pancakes, waffles, frittatas, bread bowls, and other hearty breakfast options.

Visit The Omelet Bar at 12250 Strategy Blvd, Orlando, FL 32817, or https://www.omeletbar.com/.

Domu Chibi Ramen

With Domu’s rich and flavorful ramen bowls, you can embark on a culinary adventure to Japan without going too far from the UCF campus!

There’s a huge variety of broths, such as the classic Tonkotsu or the hot dripping Tsukemen. Plus, you can customize your bowl with noodles, proteins, and other add-ons.

This restaurant’s innovative menu also features unique appetizers, such as the “Domu Wings,” and Asian-inspired cocktails. Domu’s authentic flavors make it a must-try for ramen enthusiasts in East Orlando.

Visit Domu at 869 N Alafaya Trail, Orlando, FL 32828, or https://domufl.squarespace.com/.

Marlow’s Tavern

Marlow’s Tavern is a neighborhood restaurant near UCF, serving classic American tavern dishes with a modern twist. 

The menu features fresh, high-quality ingredients, with varied options, such as grilled Atlantic salmon and shrimp and grits. This restaurant also offers a wide selection of handcrafted cocktails, craft beers, and wines.

Marlow’s Tavern boasts a relaxed atmosphere and an ample, comfortable seating area perfect for a casual dinner, a quick lunch, or a night out with friends.

Visit Marlow’s Tavern at 547 N Alafaya Trail, Orlando, FL 32828, or www.marlowstavern.com.

Eastside Bistro at Avalon Park

An experience of New American cuisine awaits at this stylish bistro, right in the heart of Avalon Park.

Eastside Bistro has an ever-evolving menu with fresh, seasonal ingredients in creative and flavorful dishes, including the “Jam-N-Brew Burger” and the “Black Bean Veggie Bowl,” snacks and starters, artisan flatbreads, boneless chicken strips, entree greens, desserts, and more! There’s something to please every palate.

The chic ambiance with relaxing lighting, varied menu, extensive beer list, and attentive service make Eastside Bistro a perfect choice for a special occasion or a night out with friends.

Visit Eastside Bistro at 12001 Avalon Lake Dr. Suite F, Orlando, FL 32828, or https://www.eastsidebistro.com/.

PDQ Chicken Waterford Lakes

The drive-thru makes PDQ a convenient stop for a quick and delicious meal, but it offers more than that. Fresh, hand-crafted chicken tenders, sandwiches, and salads made with quality ingredients are some of the things you can find at this restaurant.

PDQ is known for its signature dipping sauces, such as sweet sriracha, honey mustard, and creamy garlic, which will surely awaken your taste buds. If you’re craving something sweet, you can try some of the shakes and freshly baked cookies! 

Visit PDQ at 622 N Alafaya Trail, Orlando, FL 32828, or eatpdq.com.

Bacon Bitch

This restaurant is a testament to Americans’ love for bacon. Serving classic breakfast and brunch with an innovative menu, it has become a go-to option for UCF students looking for something that captivates their taste buds.

Bacon Bitch uses 100% gluten-free, MSG-free, nitrite-free bacon made by Niman Ranch’s independent family farmers, who use ancient charcuterie techniques and ensure livestock are raised under sustainable, humane conditions.

Some of the items available on Bacon Bitch’s menu are the Million Dollar Bacon Skillet, the Thick (croissant with turkey sausage, scrambled eggs, and cheddar cheese), and the OG (King’s Hawaiian roll with bacon, sunny side up eggs, cheddar cheese, and hash browns).

Visit Bacon Bitch at 12103 Collegiate Way, Orlando, FL 32817, or https://baconbitch.com/.

Other Restaurants Near UCF Campus!

Still looking for the best restaurant near UCF? Here are more options!

Blaze Pizza

Students and locals looking for a quick but delicious meal can satisfy their cravings at Blaze Pizza, known for its build-your-own options with a thin crust cooked in a blazing hot oven for super crispiness.

No matter if you choose the pizzeria’s signature creations or customize your own, your pizza will be ready in just a few minutes. That’s why Blaze Pizza is one of the most popular restaurants near UCF.

The best part? There’s a wide variety of fresh ingredients and sauces available, including some gluten-free and vegan options. Blaze Pizza is ideal for diverse dietary preferences!

Visit Blaze Pizza at 4100 N. Alafaya Trail Orlando, FL 32826, or http://blazepizza.com/.

Habaneros Mexican Grill

Do you want to embark on a culinary journey to Mexico? Habaneros’ authentic dishes, bursting with the tang of freshly squeezed limes and the spice of chili peppers, will transport you directly to this beautiful country.

From classic fajitas and cheesy enchiladas to fresh guacamole and refreshing margaritas, Habaneros delivers a true taste of Mexico in a vibrant and festive setting.

Visit Habaneros Mexican Grill at 12185 Collegiate Way, Orlando, FL 32826, or https://habanerosmexicangrill.com/.

Beef ‘O’ Brady’s | Oviedo

This family-friendly sports restaurant, which started as a neighborhood pub, offers a wide array of pub grub favorites, from loaded nachos and juicy burgers to wings tossed in a delicious sauce.

Beef ‘O’ Brady’s daily specials, extensive beer selection, and sporty atmosphere make it a great place to unwind, catch up with friends over a casual meal, watch a game, or celebrate after a victory.

Visit Beef ‘O’ Brady’s at 1817 E Broadway St Bldg 6, Oviedo, FL 32765, or beefobradys.com.

Azteca D’Oro UCF

Azteca D’Oro serves authentic Mexican dishes made with fresh ingredients and traditional recipes, including savory tacos, burritos, fajitas, and enchiladas.  We recently dined there and posted this review with more color about our visit.

Refreshing margaritas, bottled beers, daytime cocktails, and some non-alcoholic specialties are also part of this sophisticated restaurant’s extensive menu. Azteca D’Oro has something to please every palate, especially Mexicans.

Visit Azteca D’Oro at 11633 University Blvd, Orlando, FL 32817, or aztecadoro.com.

Tijuana Flats 

Tijuana Flats offers a vibrant and laid-back atmosphere where you can customize your Tex-Mex favorites.

Build your own tacos, burritos, bowls, flautas, or quesadillas with fresh ingredients and sauces from the restaurant’s famous hot sauce bar.

Tijuana Flats is a perfect spot for a casual meal with friends or family who want to enjoy bold flavors in a fun, colorful ambiance.

Visit Tijuana Flats at 11551 University Blvd #6, Orlando, FL 32817, or tijuanaflats.com.

Twistee Treat | UCF

Twistee Treat offers the best opportunity to beat the Florida heat with its iconic ice cream!

Served in the restaurant’s signature twisted cones (cake, waffle, sugar, and fancy), this ice cream will be a symphony of sweet and soft sensations on your tongue.

You can choose from classics, such as vanilla and chocolate, and unique flavors, such as Cheesecake, S’mores Crunch, Butterfinger, and Oreo.

The menu also features refreshing milkshakes, sundaes topped with whipped cream and cherries, and customizable slushies.

Located near UCF, it’s a popular spot for students and locals looking for all things sweet.

Visit Twistee Treat at 12101 University Blvd, Orlando, FL 32817, or twisteetreat.com.

Buffalo Wild Wings

Gather with friends and family to watch the big game and enjoy classic American fare in a lively sports bar atmosphere.

Buffalo Wild Wings offers a wide array of wing sauces and rubs, from mild to wild, to satisfy every taste bud.

The menu also features burgers, sandwiches, salads, and a variety of shareable appetizers, such as nachos and mozzarella sticks.

With multiple large screens, a full bar, and a dedicated game-day menu, it’s the perfect spot to cheer on your favorite team.

Visit Buffalo Wild Wings at 11750 E Colonial Dr, Orlando, FL 32817, or buffalowildwings.com.

Bar Louie

Experience the energy and excitement of this upscale gastropub, known for its innovative cocktails and modern American cuisine.

Bar Louie’s menu features a diverse selection of appetizers, entrees, and signature martinis, such as the “Spiked Watermelon” and the “Tito’s Cucumber Drop.” Whether you’re in the mood for a juicy burger, a fresh salad, or a shareable plate of loaded tots, this restaurant can be a great choice.

Thanks to its lively atmosphere, with its upbeat music and stylish decor, it’s a popular spot for happy hour, dinner, or late-night drinks.

Visit Bar Loui at 7549 W Sand Lake Rd, Orlando, FL 32819, or barlouie.com.

Chuy’s

Get ready for a fiesta of Tex-Mex flavors at Chuy’s! This lively restaurant boasts a unique atmosphere with colorful decor, eclectic artwork, and a fun vibe.

Indulge in the made-from-scratch dishes, such as the “Chick-a-Boom” enchiladas filled with roasted chicken and cheese, or the “Big As Yo’ Face” burritos packed with your choice of fillings.

The creamy jalapeno sauce is a must-try, adding a kick to any dish, and don’t forget to pair your meal with one of the restaurant’s famous margaritas, handcrafted with fresh ingredients.

Visit Chuy’s at 1701 E. Buena Vista Dr., Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830, or chuys.com.

4 Rivers Smokehouse

Get ready to savor slow-smoked barbecue at its finest! 4 Rivers Smokehouse is a local institution, renowned for its mouthwatering brisket, pulled pork, ribs, and burnt ends, all smoked low and slow over oak wood for hours.

Signature sides include the “Texas Caviar” with black-eyed peas, corn, and jalapenos, or the “Mac and Cheese” with a crispy breadcrumb topping.

The menu also features sandwiches, salads, and desserts, all made with the same commitment to quality and flavor.

With a warm, family-friendly atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to satisfy your BBQ cravings and enjoy a hearty meal.

Visit 4 Rivers Smokehouse at 11730 E Colonial Dr, Orlando, FL 32817, or 4rsmokehouse.com.

Rock & Brews

If you like rock and roll, Rock & Brews may be for you! This restaurant is completely dedicated to this music genre and the best American comfort food.

At Rock & Brews, you can savor original and delicious burgers, including the “Ultimate” (caramelized onions, pickles, and Thousand Island) and the “Alice Cooper’s Poison” (pepper cheese spread, freshly fried jalapenos, crispy onion strings, ranch, and hot sauce), while paying tribute to rock and roll legends. There are more items on its menu, such as nachos, chicken tenders, and seafood, but these are the most popular ones.

This restaurant also specializes in unique local brews, offering the largest local and international craft beer selection in the Orlando area!

Rock & Brews has an incomparable concert-inspired atmosphere with flat-screen TVs showing the most iconic rock and roll performances, sporting events, and more. Plus, the patio is dog-friendly!

Visit Rock & Brews at 7135 Red Bug Lake Rd, Oviedo, FL 32765, rockandbrews.com.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re looking for the perfect place for a romantic date, a night of celebration with your classmates, or to eat your favorite dish after getting top grades on a super-hard exam (well-deserved award!), these restaurants near the UCF campus have got you covered!

Explore the best options, find the ones that suit your budget and taste buds, and embark on an unforgettable culinary adventure!