Restaurants near Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge

Island Hideaway is already my go-to spot for special occasions, but oh my they have really stepped up for the Christmas holiday with VERY creative decorating that's subtle yet gorgeous & indulgent at the same time: the entire ceiling above the bar is a solid cover of classic red & gold ball ornaments, there are large well-done bows here & there around window area, and on the tables there are small clear glass vase/bowls with perfectly detailed yet again simple/classic miniature tree and snow inside. SO MUCH JOY! And as always, engaging yet efficient & professional service AND outstanding food, everything highest quality, love the chef's close attention to preparation and creative yet tempered seasoning (I had the seafood canneloni (sp?) this time, and chose the alfredo sauce which is seriously the best alfredo sauce I've ever had, so rich yet still delicate that its worth the indulgence. Also started with the crab-stuffed mushrooms (special appetizer of the evening) which was also excellent. Will be back in January --and hoping the the chef's chicken pot pie will be on the winter menu ;)

Always a first class experience. Fabulous restaurant with capable staff and exquisite food.

Lovely interior. Food very good… and half price bottle of wine! Highly recommend

We’ve been to La Vela many times, and it’s always outstanding. Fettuccine Bolognese, is excellent, and the roasted duck, with a few minor adaptations for my wife’s food sensitivities, is the best she’s ever had. The service is great. This time we were there for our anniversary, and we loved it.

Always fun, great Disney like decor and very good food to boot. Arrrgh!!!