Planning on visiting Universal Theme Park in Orlando and need somewhere to eat?
Check out our Tabla Restaurant Orlando review. The restaurant is located a short distance away from the park.
5847 Grand National Drive, Orlando, FL 32819 United States
(407) 248-9400
HOURS
Mon–Thu: 11:30 AM–9:00 PM
Fri & Sat: 11:30 AM–10:00 PM
Sun: 11:30–9:00 PM
CUISINE
Indian, Indo-Chinese, Thai and Vegan
MUSIC
Traditional Music
MENUS
Lunch & Dinner
DRINKS
Full Bar & Cocktails
Our Review
Tell us about your first impressions when you arrived.
I don’t live far from the Tabla location in southwest Orlando and drive by this spot all the time. However, it’s hard to tell when driving that the restaurant is there as it’s neatly tucked in the Clarion Inn & Suites so was happy when Orlando Unplugged received an invitation. When you walk into the restaurant you’re pleasantly surprised as Indian interior design isn’t just about aesthetics, it’s also about creating a welcoming space that promotes health and wellbeing. Tabla does that with its exotic artwork, statues and water feature. My favorites are the elephants, which I have in my own home, and are meant to inspire calm and bring good luck.
What was the crowd like?
The restaurant is, first and foremost, family-oriented as the hotel is near Universal. I was there between lunch and dinner so it wasn’t crowed and I couldn’t get a good sense for what it might look like.
What should we be drinking?
The restaurant has a full bar offering wine, a range of domestic and imported beers, various spirits, cocktails and soft drinks sold at comparable prices. I recommend trying the Jalapeño Mojito which is the Cuban cocktail made with white rum, simple syrup, fresh mint leaves and given an unconventional twist—by adding jalapeño. Oh so spicy!
Main event: the food. Give us the lowdown—especially what not to miss.
Executive Chef Sajan Prem prepared a feast! This culinary adventure took us on a journey to South Asia and the flavorful foods that only serve to satisfy my palette—and leave me wanting more the next day. Especially since I was born in Trinidad and Tobago and grew up eating curry, although slightly different to that of India, but nevertheless it’s one of my favorite foods. The amazing experience began with a papard cone served with condiments followed by tasty vegetable samosas. We were then able to sample chicken prepared using various spices when a mixed grill was served to the table. The main course consisted of butter chicken, bhindi masala fry, paneer makhani, plain and garlic naan, and rice. For dessert we had yummy cassata ice cream.
And how did the front-of-house folks treat you?
You’re definitely welcomed as family here and the service is notably warm. We were treated like royalty and each dish was identified and explained to us, which we appreciated as some were new. The Chef then came out to introduce himself and ensure we were enjoying our meal. I had a great conversation with him and he told me he could make some of the traditional curry dishes from my island.
What’s the real-real on why we’re coming here?
Coming here is an act of celebrating Indian cuisine. The restaurant and staff truly immerse you in all of the authentic flavors and transport you to India with the ambiance. You’re dining inside an oasis in the city of Orlando near a major theme park and thankfully the food stands up to all expectations.
Hope you enjoyed our Tabla Restaurant Orlando review. Feel free to leave a comment or tip!
Check out Original Article HERE
