Family Restaurants Outside Universal Orlando

A Family Restaurant That Actually Cares About Families

Finding a good family restaurant near Universal Orlando is harder than it sounds. Most places close to the parks are chains designed to move tourists through as fast as possible. The food is predictable, the waits are long, and the prices are inflated because they know you have nowhere else to go.

Ciao Italia Ristorante is 12 minutes from Universal and it is the opposite of that experience. The Navarra family has been running this restaurant since 1991. They raised their own kids in this business. They understand what families need: good food, fair prices, a comfortable atmosphere, and a staff that does not rush you out the door.

Kids Eat Well Here — Adults Eat Even Better

The kids menu at Ciao Italia is $13 and includes an entree and gelato. Seven options to choose from — Spaghetti Marinara, Spaghetti and Meatball, Penne alla Vodka, Cheese Ravioli, Chicken Fingers, Fettuccine Alfredo, and Kids Steak Bites. That is a real kids menu, not just chicken nuggets in a basket.

Meanwhile, parents get access to a menu that goes far beyond basic Italian. Pappardelle al Cinghiale with wild boar ragu. Risotto alla Pescatora loaded with seafood. Vitello Piccata with artichokes and capers. Australian lamb chops. Beer and wine with dinner. It is the kind of meal that makes you glad you drove 12 minutes past CityWalk.

About Family Dining Near Universal Orlando

Universal Orlando Resort attracts millions of families each year. While CityWalk offers dining options, the restaurants there tend to be loud, crowded, and expensive. Many families prefer to drive a short distance for a more relaxed and authentic dining experience.

Ciao Italia Ristorante is 12 minutes from Universal on Westwood Boulevard. The Navarra family has owned and operated this restaurant since 1991. Everything is made from scratch — handmade pasta, fresh sauces, homemade bread and desserts.

With 4,000+ reviews, 9 awards, a $13 kids menu with gelato, and a private dining room for up to 60 guests, Ciao Italia is built for families. Beer and wine with dinner. Free parking. Open nightly 5 to 10 PM.

How to Get to Ciao Italia from Universal Orlando

Head south on International Drive from Universal. Continue past Sand Lake Road and turn right onto Westwood Blvd. The restaurant is at 6149 Westwood Blvd, about 12 minutes away with free parking right in front.

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About Dining Near Family Restaurants Outside Universal

When you are visiting Family Restaurants Outside Universal in Orlando, finding a genuine Italian dinner can feel impossible among the chains and tourist traps. Ciao Italia Ristorante has been the answer since 1991 — a family-owned Italian restaurant on Westwood Boulevard where everything is made from scratch.

The Navarra family runs the kitchen personally. Handmade pasta, fresh sauces, bread baked daily, and housemade desserts. The menu includes classics like lasagna and chicken parmigiana alongside refined dishes like pappardelle with wild boar ragu and risotto alla pescatora.

With 4,000+ reviews, 9 awards, and over 35 years of service, Ciao Italia is one of the most trusted Italian restaurants in the Orlando area. Italian wine and beer are available with dinner. Kids eat for $13 with gelato. Free parking. Walk-ins welcome nightly 5 to 10 PM.

How to Get to Ciao Italia from Family Restaurants Outside Universal

Ciao Italia is about 12 minutes from Family Restaurants Outside Universal. Head toward International Drive and continue to Westwood Boulevard. The restaurant is at 6149 Westwood Blvd, Orlando, FL 32821, with free parking right in front. Open nightly 5 to 10 PM.

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