By Holley Long
If you’re like me, you fantasize about a trip to Italy at least once a week (mostly, I dream about the food). Until that trip becomes a reality, there’s a place in Orlando that will treat your taste buds to the authentic Italian experience.
The Restaurant
BiCE Orlando opened in the early 2000s, but it is just one of the restaurants in a global network that came on the scene nearly a hundred years ago. While BiCE began in 1926 as a neighborhood trattoria—a friendly gathering place—in Milan, Italy, it has expanded into multiple locations around the world, each with a unique theme.
BiCE Orlando is a fine dining establishment that combines old world Italy elegance with modern touches. Located inside the Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, the restaurant overlooks a private lake, so guests can enjoy a view of the water while dining (and, if you’re seated on the second terrace, you can look over to the Portofino Piazza, a replica of the Portofino village in Italy).
The Menu
Bice Orlando’s menu includes traditional Italian dishes including handcrafted pastas and risotto. The chef actually prepares the signature parmesan risotto tableside! BiCE’s pasta is made fresh each day, and the effort pays off. I ordered the tagliatelle al prosciutto, and it was one of the best meals I’ve ever had.
The desserts are handcrafted each day as well (the wild berry cheesecake and cannolis are spectacular), and the wine list is extensive and constantly refined so guests can experience different wines from Italy and around the world.
Loews Portofino Bay Hotel
As mentioned above, Loews Portofino Bay Hotel replicates the look and atmosphere of the seaside Portofino village. Its outdoor shops and cafes are worth an after-dinner stroll, and if you head inside the hotel, just off the lobby is a little shop featuring all sorts of Portofino-branded gifts.
The hotel is located on Universal Orlando Resort property, and the theme park and CityWalk are just a short walk or boat ride away. If you decide to stay the night at the hotel, you can enjoy free express passes to skip the lines at most of the theme park rides.
Overall
If you’re in the mood to experience an Italian dinner at one of the most beautiful hotels in Orlando, check out BiCE. And, if you still need plans for Valentine’s Day, the chef has prepared a special menu for the evening that you and your sweetheart are sure to enjoy.
Ciao for now!
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