Epic Universe Dining
Dinner Near Universal's Stella Nova Resort
Discover the best Italian restaurant near Epic Universe
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Epic Universe Dining
Discover the best Italian restaurant near Epic Universe
Our Story
When Josie and Antonio Navarra opened Ciao Italia in 1991, they brought their Southern Italian family recipes and a simple philosophy: make great food from scratch, treat guests like family, and never take shortcuts.
More than 35 years later, we are still here — locally owned, scratch-made, and proudly independent. No chains. No shortcuts. Just real Italian food on International Drive.
Read Our Full Story
Every dish made from scratch • No shortcuts since 1991
Stella Nova
Family-owned and operated since 1991. Homemade pasta, fresh sauces, and Italian classics served nightly. Located on International Drive at 6149 Westwood Blvd, Orlando — 3 minutes from SeaWorld, 4 minutes from Aquatica, and 5 minutes from the Convention Center.
Kids menu with gelato included. Homemade pasta. Free parking. Open every night.
New theme park restaurants charge premium prices because they can. Everything is new, everyone is curious, and the captive audience has limited options. Ciao Italia charges fair prices because they have been earning loyalty the honest way for over 35 years. The food speaks for itself. The 4,000+ reviews confirm it. The highly awarded back it up. This is not hype. This is history.
Ciao Italia is open 7 days a week from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM, including all holidays. Reservations recommended during Epic Universe opening season. Call(407) 354-0770or book online.
Handmade pasta • Fresh seafood • Prime cuts • Every plate tells a story
What Guests Say
"We have been coming here for 10 years every time we visit Orlando. The food never changes and that is the highest compliment."
— The Rossi Family — OpenTable"Best Italian we've had in Florida. The lasagna was unreal and the staff made us feel like regulars on our first visit. Already planning our next trip back."
— Nicole & Chris W. — Google"A hidden gem on International Drive. Skip the tourist traps. The veal piccata and pappardelle are incredible."
— David K. — TripAdvisor
On International Drive — minutes from Orlando's top attractions and hotels.
Open 7 Days
5 PM – 10 PM
Free On-Site
Casual
Come As You Are
OpenTable or Call
(407) 354-0770
Locals often recommend Ciao Italia Ristorante on Westwood Boulevard, about 12 minutes south of Universal. It is a family-owned Italian restaurant that has been open since 1991. Homemade pasta, fresh bread, casual atmosphere, and fair prices. A genuine alternative to CityWalk and hotel dining.
Ciao Italia Ristorante has free self-parking and is very family-friendly. The kids menu is $13 with gelato included, there is no dress code, and walk-ins are welcome every night. It is about 12 minutes south of Universal on Westwood Boulevard near International Drive.
Ciao Italia is about 10 minutes by car from Universal's Stella Nova Resort near Epic Universe. We are at 6149 Westwood Blvd, Orlando, FL 32821.
Yes. Ciao Italia has been serving authentic Italian food since 1991 with highly awarded and 4,000+ reviews. A proven alternative to brand-new theme park dining.
Yes. Free self-parking for all guests. No theme park parking fees or garage charges.
Yes. Kids menu is $13 and includes gelato for dessert. Available for children 10 and under.
Yes. Ciao Italia is open nightly from 5 to 10 PM. Most Universal guests arrive between 6 and 8 PM. Walk-ins welcome.
Explore more dining guides for Stella Nova guests and nearby hotel visitors
Private Dining & Group Events
Celebrate at Ciao Italia Ristorante, family-owned since 1991 on International Drive in Orlando. From corporate dinners and family celebrations to special occasions, enjoy authentic Italian cuisine, warm hospitality, and flexible spaces tailored to your event.
All food packages include dessert, coffee, and tea.
Your guests deserve more than an ordinary dinner. Let our family welcome yours with delicious Italian food, personalized service, and a memorable atmosphere.
Real Italian food on International Drive. Family-owned since 1991. Free parking.
