Cool Restaurants Near Universal Studios
A family-owned Italian gem 10 minutes from Universal. Handmade pasta, 35+ years.
FAMILY-OWNED SINCE 1991 — Handmade Italian — 10 Minutes from Universal Studios
The Coolest Restaurant You Haven't Found Yet
The coolest restaurants are never the ones in the tourist corridor. They are the ones locals have been going to for decades — the places where the owner knows your name, the pasta is made by hand, and the recipes came from someone's grandmother in Italy. That is Ciao Italia. The Navarra family has been cooking on Westwood Boulevard since 1991. No neon signs. No gimmicks. Just real food made with real ingredients.
- 10 minutes from Universal Studios
- Handmade pasta and fresh sauces daily
- $13 kids menu includes gelato dessert
- Free parking lot right in front
- Walk-ins welcome 7 nights a week
- Family-owned and operated since 1991
What Makes Ciao Italia Cool
It is not about the decor or the Instagram wall. It is about Pappardelle al Cinghiale — wild boar ragu with porcini mushrooms and pecorino. It is about Sacchetti di Filetto — handmade pasta purses with truffle cream and sliced filet mignon. It is about Linguine alle Vongole with fresh clams in white wine. The wine list covers every Italian region. The atmosphere is casual and warm. And after a loud day at Universal, that is exactly what you want. Open nightly 5 to 10 PM. Free parking. Call (407) 354-0770.
Practical Details
Address
6149 Westwood Blvd
Orlando, FL 32821
Hours & Phone
Open Nightly 5–10 PM
(407) 354-0770
Parking & Families
Free parking lot
$13 kids menu with gelato
Walk-ins welcome
About Finding Cool Restaurants Near Universal
CityWalk has volume and convenience, but the coolest restaurants in Orlando are the ones that have earned their reputation over time.
Ciao Italia is the kind of place you hear about from a friend, a hotel concierge, or a local who has been eating there for years.
Located at 6149 Westwood Blvd, 10 minutes from Universal Studios. Family-owned, Zagat-rated, and still cooking with the same recipes the Navarra family brought from Italy.
Getting to Ciao Italia
From Universal Studios, take I-4 East to International Drive. Head south about 2 miles, turn right on Westwood Boulevard. Ciao Italia is at 6149 Westwood Blvd. Free parking. About 10 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the coolest restaurants near Universal Studios?
Ciao Italia Ristorante is a family-owned Italian restaurant 10 minutes from Universal Studios. Handmade pasta, 9 awards, and the kind of atmosphere that feels like a discovery.
Is Ciao Italia a hidden gem?
For tourists, yes. For Orlando locals, it has been a favorite since 1991. The Navarra family has built a 35+ year reputation on food, not marketing.
Do Universal visitors get a discount?
Walk-ins are welcome every night.
What should I order at Ciao Italia?
The Sacchetti di Filetto, Pappardelle al Cinghiale, and Linguine alle Vongole are fan favorites. The lamb chops and Risotto alla Pescatora are also outstanding.
Is Ciao Italia casual?
Yes. No dress code. Come as you are from the parks. Walk-ins welcome.
More From Ciao Italia
Discover the Coolest Dinner Near Universal
10 minutes away. Handmade Italian since 1991.
Published by Ciao Italia Ristorante, family-owned by the Navarra family on Westwood Boulevard since 1991. Over 35 years of authentic Italian hospitality in Orlando, Florida.