Restaurants near Orange County Zoo

My wife and I tried the 5-course menu with wine pairings and it was well worth it. We had a window view with no obstruction and got to see the Disney fireworks towards the end. The food was amazing and our server was great as well. We didn’t feel rushed at all and our server was very knowledgeable about the food and wine. This was our second time at Orange Hill and they never disappoint and highly recommend. Our reservation was at 7pm and got to the valet 5 minutes before and was able to check in and get seated quickly.

Came for Valentine's and was a little surprised at first when we were notified days after making the reservation that it was a fixed menu, but the food and care they gave was outstanding. An unassuming little restaurant that looks almost like a cafe was a fantastic experience of Italian cuisine made with love and not off a processed assembly line. The lobster ravioli was incredible, as was the mushroom soup and Caesar salad. The meatballs were so full of flavor, I'd go back just for them. We all tasted each other's foods, and couldn't decide which was best. The garlic pasta, pork chops and filet were amazing. Definitely going back to taste off the regular menu.

The food was really good. The service, however, was the shining star of the evening. We had eaten here 15 years ago for a rehearsal dinner for friends. I made the reservation for our valentine's dinner with the same couple that were married 15 years. And I didn't know that this same restaurant was where we were 15 years ago! When I notified the other couple, they were amazed with my memory. But no memory, it was just luck - or divine guidance! We arrived and were seated promptly. Dinner was delicious. But the star of the show was our server, Belen (or maybe spelled 'Belyn' or 'Belin'. Regardless, she took absolute total control, was spot-on with deliverables and requests, and allowed us to have a terrific evening. Flying in from Atlanta for the dinner at this same spot from 15 years ago? Nothing made the night better.

It was my first time visiting Story. I absolutely loved the vibe! From the way it was decorated to the quality of the food, I was a big fan!!! We sat in the bar area (comfortable booth seating) for lunch and enjoyed an Espresso Martini to start. Very good and not too sweet as I’ve sometimes had. Enjoyed the Goat Cheese Tomato Crostini to start with and then we both had the Sundried Tomato Chicken Sandwich. Both were delicious in every way! After enjoying our lunch, we were about to leave but decided to sit at the bar and enjoy one more drink before we left. Finished off a Lemon-drop martini which again I give a big thumbs up to! Cheers! I will definitely be back!

Overall, I had a wonderful time at Jardin Autentica Cocina. My friends and I went for brunch and the food for this time frame was delicious, especially the chorizo con papas empanadas and the tres leches toast. The choriza con papas melted beautifully once you had a taste and the tres leches was a perfect balance of sweet and savory. My friends and I agreed to come back for more of their brunch options. I will say though that for our experience, the lighting of the restaurant was dim/low so if you are hoping to take pictures might want to turn on your flash. Also, this restaurant has valet parking and tips are encouraged.