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Sure, Florida has some of the most touristy restaurants you will find in the U.S., but it also has a handful of unique one-of-a-kind spots that will truly give you a dining experience like no other. With signature dishes, long and colorful histories, and unique atmospheres these restaurants provide a combination of qualities that you will only find in Florida. Visit one of these off-the-beaten-track restaurants and try something new.
Murder Mystery Dinner Train, Fort Myers
Ride an actual moving train as you enjoy a 5-course meal at Murder Mystery Dinner Train. You can participate in a live-action clue game that keeps you entertained at one of the most engaging and lively dining experiences in Florida.
Medieval Times, Kissimmee
It’s hard to resist the fun to be had at the action-packed Medieval Times, where you can gnaw on your meal without the use of utensils as you cheer on traditional jousting and sword fights.
Lunch with an Astronaut - Kennedy Space Center, Merritt Island
The chance to dine with a real-life astronaut and ask all the questions you’ve ever wondered about space is once-in-a-lifetime lunch like no other. Chat with An Astronaut is a must for all space enthusiasts.
Columbia Restaurant, Ybor City
Claiming to be the largest Spanish restaurant in the world, Columbia Restaurant offers guests the opportunity to dine on fresh paella and sangria to the sounds of castanets and flamenco dancers.
Linger Lodge, Bradenton
A glimpse into old Florida with a twist, dine on gator and frog legs as you gawk at the cages filled with the founder’s taxidermist trophies at Linger Lodge.
Bern's Steak House, Tampa
Wine enthusiasts will flock to Bern’s Steak House, where you will find the largest private wine collection of any restaurant in the world.
Yoder's Amish Restaurant, Sarasota
Located in Pinecraft, a Florida vacation destination for the Amish and Mennonites, Yoder’s is beloved for its home-style dishes and homemade pies served in a unique and quaint ambiance.
The Bubble Room, Captiva
The Bubble Room is a unique restaurant in Captiva that has the most over the top decor in Florida, with 3 floors of colorful and bright decorations such as antiques, Christmas decorations, and moving trains.
*The Bubble Room is currently being restored after damages from Hurricane Ian.
Mai-Kai Restaurant and Polynesian Show, Fort Lauderdale
A sunken ship and wooden bridge lead you to a fire and dance show that will keep you on your toes at Mai Kai, Florida’s famous Polynesian restaurant.
*Mai-Kai is currently closed for renovations.
