Norman’s
4012 Central Florida Pkwy, Orlando, FL, 32837
Norman’s Menu
-
Tapas
-
First Plates & Salads
-
Main Plates
-
Dessert Menu
Healthy Meal suggestions for Norman’s
-
Tapas
-
First Plates & Salads
-
Main Plates
-
Dessert Menu
Visit below restaurant in Orlando for healthy meals suggestion.
Visit below restaurant in Orlando for healthy meals suggestion.
Sorry, we don't have Q&A for this restaurant.
Sorry, No Coupons available for this restaurant.
-
Address :
4012 Central Florida Pkwy
Orlando, FL, 32837 - Phone (407) 393-4333
- Website https://www.normans.com
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Mon :6:00 am - 9:3
Specialities
- Takes Reservations : Yes
Delivery : No
Take-out : No
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Dinner
Parking : Valet
Bike Parking : No
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : No
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Dressy
Ambience : Upscale
Noise Level : Quiet
Alcohol : Full Bar
Outdoor Seating : Yes
Wi-Fi : No
Has TV : No
Waiter Service : Yes
Caters : No
WE SERVE THE FOLLOWING STATES
Looky Weed - Buy Marijuana Online
Looky Weed is here to help you navigate the maze of legalized marijuana. We provide you with a complete dispensary directory.
Stephanie V.
My husband and I were celebrating our 5th anniversary and wanted a nice special dinner. Norman's really was an amazing experience.The decor is very upscale and beautiful. When we were seated they immediately poured us a glass of champagne. When we opened the menu it was personalized to say Happy 5th Anniversary (which was given to us to keep) For our appetizer we shared the yucca stuffed shrimp. At $18 for 2 shrimp I was skeptical, but after one bite it was so worth it. Best shrimp I had ever eaten. For our entree I had the snapper with truffle mashed potatoes, and my husband had the roasted chicken. Both dishes were amazing and probably the best entrees we had ever had. We originally were going to share dessert, but that didnt happen when I wanted creme brulee and husband wanted the banana dessert. Both were great, but we agreed the creme brulee was the favorite. Service was top notch. Our dishes were explained in detail and our server was very nice. Glad we decided on Norman's for our evening. Worth every penny.
(5)Randy D.
Perfect service, good food, price seemed a bit high. Good for date night.
(3)christy b.
We went here for an anniversary dinner and it was AMAZING!!! Fernando was gracious and very personable!! Our food was delicious!!! ~ FRIED GREEN TOMATOES Queso Fresco ~ Escabeche Spiced Mayo (These very good, juicy, thick tomatoes) ~ NORMAN'S HOUSE SALAD Point Reyes Blue Cheese ~ Almonds ~ Champagne Vinaigrette (I always prefer a Caesar salad but since that was not available we chose this and it was good....but would love to see a Caesar salad next time) ~ PAN-SEARED SCALLOPS Anson Mills White Grits ~ Huitlacoche ~ Orange Buerre Blanc (these were AMAZING...those grits should come by the bucket full :) .... they were seriously delicious!! The Scallops were cooked perfectly!!! I wish there were more than two on the plate!) ~ SERRANO CRUSTED SEA BASS Chorizo-Saffron Risotto ~ Tomato Consomme ~ Lime Foam (the fish was moist and delicious with a slightly crunchy top....the chorizo complimented the risotto without overpowering the dish like it tends to do) Fernando helped us chose a great bottle of wine to compliment our meal. It was a GREAT experience and we cannot wait to return!!
(5)Lilianne B.
What an unforgettable experience. Our dinner was excellent, especially the sea bass and lamb. We also had the cheese plate and the red hawk is to die for. What really made this and unforgettable evening was out waiter Fernando, he made excellent pairing recommendations was very charismatic and knowledgable on everything throughout the evening. I will definitely be coming back and recommending Norman's to everyone I know. Thank you!!
(5)Kathy P.
This place lives up to their reputation. Our server, Paul was top notch. He was on point with the food and wine. He knew it was my birthday and brought out champs for us and an amuse bouche that's shrimp ceviche. We ordered beef tartar, pork belly, oysters and foie gras. Beef tartar was so damn good we ordered a second round! Our wine and my daughters apple cider was never empty. For entrees I ordered the sea bass, my boyfriend had lamb and my brother had snapper. EVERYTHING was GREAT! Will definitely come back! Ask for Paul!!
(5)S. A.
Just went here this past Saturday. They weren't offering the tasting menu but they did it for us anyway, which was so nice. My mother in law doesn't eat seafood so they let her choose two different items for two of the courses. First "course" amuse bouche was rare tuna, it was wonderful. Second was an octopus salad. This one I wasn't a fan of, it was too tough for me. My mother in law chose the fried green tomatoes which were excellent and my husband substituted he octopus with the beef carpaccio/tartar which was topped with a quail egg yoke. It was very good. Third course was a buttery melt in your mouth cobia. It was seared perfectly. Our main entree was a bison filet mignon. This was cooked medium rare, which is how I prefer it. It was unbelievable. It was accompanied by the best Brussels sprouts I've ever had. Each course was paired perfectly with wines. Dessert was a soufflé with homemade chocolate gelato. It was a great ending to a wonderful meal. We were never rushed so enjoying each course on our own pace was fantastic. The only small complaint that I have is that I called 5 days before our reservation to say that it was my husband's 40th birthday. I requested a special chocolate dessert be presented to him. She assured me that she would talk with the pastry chef and make sure that something special was brought out. I offered to pay in advance for it if needed and she assured me that it would be taken care of. My husband was brought the same dessert as everyone else with the exception that he had a candle and a thin chocolate ribbon that said "Happy Birthday". I didn't say anything then as I wasn't about to make an issue out of it after such a nice evening but I was disappointed that my request was disregarded. The evening and dinner as a whole was great though.
(5)Steve A.
A recent visit here showed much improvement. Clearly ownership has taken a renewed interest. The food is consistently good if not stunning, and service is a lot more professional. General Manager and wine director Yusuf Yildiz clearly knows his stuff, and has great plans for a new wine room, storage and emphasis on depth of the wine list, coming in August 2015. I look forward to seeing if Orlando can finally add a truly world class wine list to its restaurant portfolio after several decades without one.
(4)VJ V.
Pricey but worth it, complex, fresh, sophisticated, delicate, and everything you'd expect from a restaurant in a Ritz-Carlton hotel. Although, I'm used to having this exact quality at a lower price from Cleveland's own cadre of celebrity chefs. We sat at the patio with a view of the golf course. This is a formal restaurant that strictly enforces it's dress code; so no shorts, no vests without shirt underneath, definitely show up wearing shoes. Leave the Birkenstock sandals at home, in fact don't wear those at all, ever, as they are a fashion crime anyway, but I digress.
(4)Rich C.
If you are looking for the perfect spot...Normans is the place! Ambiance, exceptional food and a top notch wine list. What more could you ask for? Service...this is an art form at Normans. Ask for David as your personal dining concierge! It does not get much better.
(5)Sandi E.
On a recommendation, I tried the Chef's tasting menu with wine pairings- what a delightful mix! The amuse bouche was a small cup of tomato basil soup - rich and flavorful! From the beginning to the end, each plate brought out quickly became my favorite! But my most favorite was the bison - pan seared, crusty outside- melt in your mouth, tender goodness inside! Each of the wines complimented the plates wonderfully! Service was amazing, a wonderful experience with Frank!
(5)Rashmi P.
Recently, I had the pleasure of attending The Cook Book Dinner with Chef Norman Van Aken, for a reception, dinner, book discussion, and after dinner party with live music at Norman's, Ritz Carlton Orlando. Including a choice of Chef Norman's newest cookbooks. The cookbook, "My Key West Kitchen" or the IACP award nominated memoir, "No Experience Necessary....the Culinary Odyssey of Chef Norman Van Aken". Unlike Chef Norman, whose arsenal now includes a pen as much as a pocketful of chef('s) knives all I am is a mere cook. How do I indulge, describe what I consider a meeting of culinary gods? I needed inspiration... so armed with a double single malt on the rocks and Chef's Memoir "No Experience Necessary", I dove right in, with each sip deeper into the chapters that tell a tale of achievement which most of us don't dare walk let alone dream. His brilliant storytelling left me inspired and hungry for more of his penmanship, and of course ammunition to express that wonderful evening. Oscar Winner Ms. Lupita Nyong'o capture's the sentiments so aptly with her quote "no matter where you're from your dreams are valid". The Reception commenced with a signature "90 Miles to Cuba" Rum Runner Cocktail, Sparkling, White, & Red Wine, Hors d'oeuvres of Gordon's Artichoke Fritters with Aioli, Beef Tartare, and Foie Gra Mousse. The entire menu was created from Chef Norman's "My Key West Kitchen and No Experience Necessary Cookbook". Beer Steamed Key West Shrimp with Mojo Rojo: Hearts of Palm, Florida, Citrus, & Avocado Salad paired with Weingut Robert Weil 2010 Traditional Riesling. Vibrant, fresh, and zesty, the Riesling paired beautifully with the citrus and shellfish. Chez Nancy Spiny Lobster with Brown Butter, Capers, and Croutons Paired with Chateau Carbonnieux 2011 Blanc. A blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Semillion, this white Bordeaux balanced the richness of the lobster. Grill-Roasted Lake Meadow Farms Duck Breast, Brussel Sprouts, Sweet Potato Mash, Raisin-Pineapple Sauce paired with Domaine Tournon Shay's Flat Shiraz 2011. Vibrant, spicy, and silky Shiraz with Duck, cooked to perfection, it was brilliant! Tournedos of Beef "For a Mother", Sunny side up Quail Eggs, Wild Mushrooms, Madeira Wine Reduction Paired with Turnbull Oakville 2010. I have to admit this was my favorite course. Perhaps because Chef Norman created this meal for Ms. Janet as sustenance after their first child Justin's birth, "genesis of life with quail eggs", the impeccable presentation, or the ideal pairing of a full-bodied well-crafted Californian Cabarnet with a chunk of beef, perhaps I was basking in the joy of dining on the Chef's table with Chef Norman and the elegant Ms. Janet....There was many reasons this course commanded my foodie soul. The wine flowed, the dishes were the appropriate temperature and each plate was a work of art, an experience to please the senses - sight, smell, taste, and touch. Hijacked by these senses I couldn't help recall how Chef Norman introduced his book No Experience Necessary with "Celebration Dinner for food icon Ms. Julia Child and 350 of seated guests, co-produced with Chef Em (Emeril Lagasse) and Chef Charlie Trotter". The cookbook dinner might not have had such an ambitious dinner plan but to me it still was the "perfect military drill and combination of synchronized symphony in the kitchen". YES! I did indeed have the pleasure of walking into the kitchen at Norman's and catch a sneak preview of what was going to be an evening filled with mouthgasams. Sunshine's Key Lime Pie Paired with La Spinetta Moscato d'Asti Biancospino 2013. Irresistibly fresh Moscato paired with light and airy Key Lime Pie - vibrant ending to a fabulous evening filled with love, laughter, and deliciousness. I have dined and wined at Norman's at the Ritz Carlton on a number of occasions. From the moment you step out of your car at the Ritz Carlton till you leave Norman's - it's a millage, smiling faces, impeccable service, perfect presentation, delicious food, stellar wines, and all in all an evening to remember. The service at Norman's is incontestably one of the finest I have had the pleasure of experiencing.
(5)Jamie C.
Dinner at Norman's was delicious. It is located in the beautiful Ritz Carlton. Food is artistically prepared and is very unique. I started with the Winter Beet salad, which was less of a traditional salad and more of a smaller portion of different interesting combination of vegetables. If you're looking more for a traditional large salad with lettuce, cheese, and nuts, I'd pick the Norman's House Salad, which had really delicious dressing. The sea bass was amazing. The yellow snapper was good but not as tasty as the sea bass. The New York strip steak was really delicious as well. All in all, come here for a delicious and special dinner.
(5)Trung N.
Don't wear shorts or they will sit you outside...even when it's cold. They did put the heat lamps on and lowered the screens but just in case I suggest you wear pants and dress up. I had the Pan-Seared Scallops, Yuca Stuffed Crispy Shrimp and Pan Cooked Fillet of Florida Yellowtail Snapper. It was all amazing. This place is definitely high end and you can taste it. I'll be back soon again. Thanks Chef Norman and staff! :)
(5)Michele P.
Had a wonderful time! Service was old school. Great waiters, servers, etc. wine list was not the largest ever, but had a good sampling of nice wines. We are from Texas, and happened to be celebrating both our birthdays and our anniversary. The waiter gave us free champaigne for a toast at the start, and our dessert plate was decorated for the occasions. Food was amazing. Scallops were suculent and buttery. The fish prepared perfectly. Dessert was a banana bread delightful creation that melted in our mouths. If you're in Orlando and don't want to deal with 1000 screaming kids and flip flops and jeans for dinner, Norman's at the Ritz is a great alternative!
(5)David T.
An up market restaurant at the Ritz Carlton Hotel. I had originally thought this was going to be a Tapas Style restaurant, but the tapas section of the menu was basically the starters. None-the-less this was a great restaurant with wonderful Spanish/Cuban themed food. I tried the following: Fried Green Tomatoes - Very good Yuca Stuffed Crispy Shrimp - Sour Orange Mojo, Habanero Tartar Salsa, Nicaraguan Slaw - Very good Roasted Breast of Chicken - Very good Pork Havana - Very good Havana Banana Split - Bananas, Chili, Macadamia Nut Brittle - Very good
(4)David D.
Wonderful dining experience. I have had the pleasure of eating at Normans on several occasions over the years, most recently the dinner was just as good. Service was impeccable with an attentive but not intrusive waiter, whom we had years ago. The hostess entourage were inviting. This time we both opted for the wine pairing "menu" with multiple courses. Notable highlights were the wine selections (we both asked for just red and the substitutes were extremely fine and paired well with the courses. I added on a foie gras and it was superb. For a special occasion, it's hard to go wrong with Normans.
(5)Reid E.
Date: Friday, Nov 7, 2014 Pros: gorgeous location, excellent food, high-quality service, expensive but fair Con: limited menu, no wine recommendations from wait staff, not great for kids Let me comment on the limited menu point. They're playing to their strengths and this results in higher quality. However, if you're hoping for multiple red-meat or chicken options, you're out of luck. If you've got a picky kid or spouse, this could be a challenge. Dinner with the wife while enjoying the weekend. We both had the pan-seared scallops and sea bass. Everything was delicious and meticulously prepared. Good service too. It was expensive, but I didn't feel like prices were out-of-line for what we got. Reviews state that waiters are sommeliers but we didn't see that at all. Maybe they were waiting for us to ask for assistance. Dress appropriately! I was in nice clean jeans with black dress shoes and a button down shirt, and I felt a bit self-conscious. Dress slacks and a sport coat might have been more appropriate. Don't even think about turning up in shorts, flip-flops or sneakers. I saw a lot of people parking and eating there, so locals must enjoy it which is a good sign. Not just a hotel restaurant that relies on a captive audience.
(4)Amy C.
It is amazing! I choose this place for my birthday. It has great environment and I'll dress more formal if I returned next time. Our server is humorous and very friendly. We ordered tasting menu for everyone. It lasts for 2hours but it is definitely a great experience! They looked so good and taste good as well! We love the fish and beef specifically:) the dessert is really professional! It was a really great experience! I would definitely recommend it to everyone for special occasion.
(5)Wendy P.
Which was best? The service, the food or the ambiance? Hard to decide as the whole experience was perfect.
(5)Tito E.
Great athmosphere and very nice restaurant. Food is great! a nice place for a special occasion.
(5)Crystal J.
Great atmosphere, tables are set up for privacy, subdued noise level greatly appreiated. Staff attentive and whisper smooth. Started with stuffed shrimp and oysters with horseradish foam. Astounding...oyster flavor came through beautifully as did horseradish and lime. Brought tears to my eyes. Impeccable. Moved onto fish dish with carribean yam stuffedpepper. LUV LUV LUV the use of carribian ingredients fused into a great Florida fish dish. Best restaurant experience I have had in four or five years. Keep it up folks!
(5)Iam A.
My wife and I had dinner at Norman's on Sunday, November 9, 2014. We ordered the Chef's Tasting Menu with wine pairings. The experience was exceptional and, indeed, nearly unprecedented in its quality! There is an old saying when it comes to dining: "You eat it first with your eyes," obviously the basis for exercising care when it comes to "plating" a dish. This saying also is the basis for me now stating that I enjoyed three meals on November 9: once when the various courses were expertly presented by the skilled servers, again when I did a double take of their awesomely finessed presentation on the plates, and finally when I ate. Art on a plate! A flavor and texture explosion in my mouth!! Dining heaven!!! The dishes were outstanding by themselves; however, when the expertly-paired wines were added, the magic of synergy took over and 1 + 1 really did become 3. The addition of some sort of dinner music (think gently strummed guitar, harp, or piano) would have made the meal absolutely perfect. Perhaps it was because it was a Sunday night that music was not available, but if that is not the case, a restaurant of this quality is missing an opportunity to fill that void. This restaurant is a total "do over" for us! Thank you Chef Norman and your exceptional crew of professionals!!!
(5)Kim N.
Went to Norman's at the Ritz-Carlton Grande Lakes in Orlando for the first time last night. The food and service were wonderful. I ordered the fried green tomatoes appetizer, foie gras french toast appetizer, and house special, veal chop entree - all were delicious.
(5)Yanina L.
Wow, simply amazing! I came here to celebrate my partner's bday and reviews help me choose it! They were right!! This place service and food are amazing! They made her feel special and is what I wanted! I definitely recommend it for your loved ones!
(5)Kathryn N.
We've never walked out of a restaurant before but after tasting 3 of the dishes we couldn't stand to try the entrees. The star is for the service which was awesome. The beef carpaccio - nothing great about this dish. The beef itself was fine but the corn and the sauce were just weird The tuna tartare tasted like cat food. But the biggest disappointment was the foie gras. It's kinda hard to really mess up the cooking process, I sear it at home. But after a bite from each of us, we decided to leave. Felt bad so we just told our server the bf wasn't feeling well, but I think he could tell. He didn't charge us for that dish but we didn't even eat it. The maple syrup didn't go well with it at all. I even tried a small piece again to make sure and yah, not happening. Very sad cuz we were looking forward to this dinner. Oh well.
(1)Trung N.
My Father's Company had a special event here this past Wednesday for the top winners in the company and the service this restaurant provided was the best I've ever had. I've been to French Laundry in Napa and even the service there wasn't comparable to Norman's staff. The food was good and the experience overall was 5 stars. Jessica our waitress went above and beyond making us very satisfied. Well Done!
(5)Clare L.
Fantastic service Tim at the bar is great took care of me since I dine alone, gave great recommendations the pastry chef tested some of the upcoming desserts which were delicious
(5)Melody W.
My husband and I went to Normans earlier last month on a date night, hoping to find a new favorite spot. We're foodies, and as such are pretty particular and hard to impress. Normans was exceptional from beginning to end. As soon as we entered we were greeted by the general manager Yusuf Yildiz and seated immediately, and I was pleasantly surprised to see our names printed on the menu (we had made reservations and mentioned it was for our date night. From the very beginning the service was impeccable. Frank Rochefort prefaced our evening by informing us that we were take our time, savor our food, and enjoy each other's company. We were brought complimentary glasses of champagne and warm, savory rolls, and Frank fully explained the dishes on the menu to us. Although the al la cart menu was very tempting we decided to choose the Chef's Tasting Menu with the wine pairing, which turned out to be an excellent choice. As each item was placed on our table and the wine pairing given, Frank shared the background of the wine as well as the idea behind the flavors for each dish. The first plate was Scallop Aguachile, and they were a very decent size with a wonderful flavor. At the same time we also ordered the Key West Shrimp Ceviche, and it was absolutely bursting with flavor. It was paired with a great beer, and although I'm not a beer drinker it was a wise compliment. The second plate was Florida Gulf Cobia, which was moist and tasty; we particularly enjoyed the avocado. The third was Thai Barbequed Plantation Quail; while the flavor was enjoyable we were glad that we were trying it as a small dish and not as al a carte. . Don't be afraid to hold it with your fingers, it's expected! However the wine pairing for the dish was a pinot noir, Block Nine, and it was fabulous. The fourth plate we were really looking forward to was the Rib Eye Cap Steak "Carne Asada". It was the perfect melt in your mouth, just the right amount of salt, full-flavored steak. The chef did an excellent job, and we would definitely order it as an entrée in the future. The fifth plate was Artisinal Cheese, with a variety of cheeses and thin crackers, complimented by three fantastic jams. The tasting was rounded off a Sweet Plantain Soufflé which was impressively fluffy and light, served with hot fudge and small scoops of ice cream. The final touch was a small dish of sorbet to cleanse the palate. After the meal was complete were we happy to have to the chef come by our table for a few minutes to ask our opinion of the meal and give a few details about himself. While waiting for our bill to be closed, Frank took our valet ticket and had our car waiting outside the lobby for us. The ambience inside Normans was very sumptuous and calm, with intimate seating beside the glass walls overlooking the outdoor balcony and golf course below. From beginning to end, each service individual was professional and pleasant. The food was five stars, and we left extremely satisfied and pleased. Thank you so much to Yusuf Yildiz for making our date night perfect; we were overly impressed and look forward to visiting Normans again soon. Perry and Melody Wilson
(5)Joshua F.
The food was good. But the service lacks... I brought some coworkers to celebrate and had the tasting menu with paired wines. Unfortunately the wines all came consistently 10 minutes after the food so we didn't really get the "experience" of having a sommelier pair the wine to be enjoyed with each course. We had to ask for the wine at each course and the waiter had an excuse each time. The Cobe fish was fantastic but the steaks ordered medium rare were all well done - but never did they come back to check and cleared all of the plates with only a couple bites of each persons steak touched. The soups with cavier were also very good but should have been served with a spoon (not a fork) - we requested spoons but they never came. Also, the quail is fantastic.
(2)Mark R.
Easily the best overall dining experience ever. The food is very good, and the service, food and wine recommendations are even better. Never thought I'd see the day when I could say that my large bill at the end of an expensive dinner was worth every penny. The oysters, fried green tomatoes, pork belly and grouper were a 5*; the yucca crusted shrimp and conch chowder 4* and the snapper would be too except the garlic potatoes were a little heavy on the garlic.
(5)Maria R.
We dined at Norman's on NewYear's Eve and took advantage of their prix fixe food and wine pairings. Five courses, all modest in proportion enabling us to be able to enjoy each pairing without feeling overwhelmed by food. Modest yet generous pourings - just enough for each dish. Amazing service, excellent food and an overall incredible experience.
(5)Jason L.
Incredible experience here. My girlfriend took me for my birthday and it was a once in a lifetime experience. As soon as we walked through and gave our names we were treated like royalty. I had the Pork Havana which was perfectly cooked. Every ingredient sang on this dish. The staff was very warm, attentive, and genuine. I absolutely recommend this restaurant to those who want a prime example of Chef Norman Van Aiken's signature fusion style.
(5)Fredy Y.
If you visit Orlando skip one theme-park let's say Epcot and use the small fortune to spend the evening at Norman's. Normans van aken can be called the Cristoper Columbus of food. The man discovered America; An America full of rich exotic flavors that expand the horizon to new levels beyond our shores that make this part of the world so exciting and brand new again. I had the privilege to dine here on one of those special milestone occasions where you know you are going to be paying top dollar but it's going to be worth it. If you want to truly experience the Floribbean taste of Norman don't look at the menu just tell the waiter you want to experience the tasting menu paired with nectar from the Sun also called wine. Delightful and original not to miss if you come to Orlando.
(5)Alyx K.
After reading the previous reviews, I walked in with the foie gras french toast on my mind, but my attention was immediately diverted by the new tasting menu they are offering, which features some dishes from the menu as well as some novel items, and also emphasizes local and in-season ingredients. The courses were as follows: - Baby heirloom tomato salad: Some of the most flavorful tomatoes I've had in quite a while, with fresh mozzarella and herbs. - Honeydew seed crusted scallop: huge scallop served over a bed of jicama slaw with honeydew, Midori and guava flavors. I know these are a regular menu offering as a first plate. They're excellent. - Lake Meadow Naturals Poussin (young chicken): If only Thanksgiving dinner were like this. The chicken was prepared two ways... a confit leg and another portion prepared with lemon and herbs, all served over gnocchi. Artisanal comfort food! Probably my favorite on the tasting menu. - Lamb: three tender, medium-rare lollipop portions with black-eyed peas, multi-colored cauliflower, carrot puree, and a blackberry reduction. All of these flavors worked together really well. This was hubby's fave off the tasting menu. - Cheese course: this featured a Manchego, Morbier and Valdeon, with crackers, honey and preserves. The Valdeon was my fav as I love a good stinky blue. The Morbier was served with preserves (I think strawberry) that overpowered it a little bit - ultimately that ended up on my crackers and it was good :) - Dessert: The final course was a combo of a kenafeh (little middle eastern pastry made of shredded phyllo held together by syrup) with macerated cherries on top, and pistachio ice cream. Well, this was almost the final course - the chef sent out an amuse of oatmeal raisin cookies! Pricing was fair at $95/person. We did not do the wine pairings (additional $46) but the table next to us did and it made me wish we had a room there so we could've done so as well (especially when I saw the port that came out with the cheeses!) Though, if we had, I suppose we would've missed out on seeing the funky "wine list on an iPad," ha :) All in all, this is an excellent dining experience and I'll be back to try this tasting menu for a different seasonal assortment. And I think I'll be back sooner than that for foie gras toast and scotch at the bar.
(5)Jeanette H.
I was in town and staying at the Ritz-Carlton for work. We made reservations for our core work team to have dinner at Normans. This isn't typically a kind of place that I would go to but sometimes you have to take one for the team. I must say from the moment we arrived the service was excellent! The staff was very attentive without being over doing it and it being a nuisance. I wish I could say the same for my food. There wasn't anything on the menu that stood out to me so I ended up getting the house salad and asked to have grilled chicken added to it. Simple enough one would think. Well I was wrong because the chef must have also thought I said with extra saltiness. It was way too salty to eat, both the salad and the chicken. I tried to push through and eat a good amount but tapped out about 3/4 way through. Good thing I had ordered the fried green tomatoes otherwise I would have been starving. The table ordered two desserts to close out our meal. We had the key lime dessert and a chocolate decadence dessert. I didn't try the key lime but the chocolate decadence was better than I expected. Sometimes I don't get why do they have to have a bunch of elements in a dish...I mean isn't just chocolate cake good enough without a salty and spicy element. All in all I'm not much a fan of Normans and I'd much rather eat somewhere else but that is just my personal preference and taste.
(2)Colleen B.
I was pleasantly surprised and whisked away to Norman's on Valentine's day this year and it was a treat! This is a AAA Four Diamond restaurant inside The Ritz-Carlton Grande Lakes of Orlando. The dining room is open and gorgeous. The tables are not on top of each other so it was a lovely setting for great conversation. Our service was very nice, not overbearing or over the top as I would have expected it to be. I have to admit, it seemed a bit stuffy when we walked in but after we settled in, it was nice and relaxing. Our server was extremely well informed and answered any questions we had. It was a nice touch to the evening. There was a prefixed menu and everything sounded delicious that I didn't know where to start. I actually ended up having an entire meal of seafood and it was delicious. There was an option to have a wine pairing with the meal and we went for that too and it was a great idea, everything complimented each other perfectly. Wianno Oysters, Jicama Salsa ~ Passion Fruit Granite - The salsa stole the show, so crisp, fresh and invigorating. Yuca Stuffed Crispy Shrimp, Sour Orange Mojo ~ Habanero Tartar Salsa ~ Nicaraguan Slaw - Crispy for sure and huge! Pan Cooked Fillet Of Florida Snapper, Asparagus Spears ~ Citrus Butter Sauce ~ "Belly" Of Garlicky Mashed Potatoes - I could have licked the plate. Tres Leches Cake, Scented Vanilla Pineapple ~ Rum ~ Toasted Meringue - Perfect ending to a delicious meal. I left full (but not stuffed) and just so happy! This is a great place for a special occasion.
(4)Maried G.
We attended this restaurant sometime back for our first wedding anniversary! One of the best meals of our life! We had gone to "The lambs Club" in NY in February 2013 so the standards were high coming here. Norman's did not disappoint at all. Knowing what good food is, we chose the tasting menu. Amazing flavors, great quality on the ingredients and excellent presentation. The chef came out and spoke with us, which does not happen often. The service was amazing and the only reason why they don't get a 5 from me is because they did not had a coat hanger :(. I HIGHLY recommend this restaurant.
(4)W B.
Outstanding. Impressed from the initial encounter @ the hostess stand. Service exceeded expectations - waiter was Darren. Great oysters, ceviche, seared tuna, scallops, & wine pairings. Elegant, but easy decor. Absolutely do again.......& absolutely recommend.
(5)Geri E.
I really enjoy this restaurant. Very very good food. I would love to go more often however being a single female can get a little odd eating there by yourself. Overall a great place for a date night. Would recommend :)
(5)Patty S.
After being in disney and eating subpar food all week, we went on yelp and found normans. We chose the tasting and wine pairing. There were a few wines that were fabulous and the meal itself was top notch. We were weary of the shrimp and grits but their version with cumin and citrus was to die for and probably the best we have had. It is a no brainer to drop the kiddos off and come here.
(5)SidneyGreenstreet S.
One of the top five restaurants and cuisines in all of central Florida. Comparable to Victoria Albert's, though much less expensive.
(5)Jim C.
Short on time, but let's just say that food and service were as expected...EXCELLENT!
(5)Peggy A.
We had the sampling menu. It was good but not outstanding. The chef threw in beets and brussel sprouts which was a yuck for me. The lamb was perfect as was the sea bass. I think the balsamic redux showed up multiple times.. The whole reason we ordered the sampler was those donuts at the end. Yummy. One of the courses was brought to us after having sat out for a bit as I noticed the sauce was beginning to harden on the top. The waiter that served us was hard to understand and his understanding of English was worse. I told him that my husband was allergic to alcohol and if any was used in the food preparation we needed to know in advance. After I finished telling him this he turned to my husband and asked him if he would like a Malbec. The sampler allowed us a longer dining experience which was nice since neither of us are drinkers.
(3)David C.
It is easy to give this place a 5.... And is probably the best restaurant in all of Florida. The service is unbelievable, as good as NYC. When you first enter, you see a cozy, intimate bar with a great scotch selection. The Maitre'd knows his scotch and after tasting 3 kinds, I decided on a Talisker. The restaurant is very elegant. Great selection on somewhat reasonable wine. The seating is spacious and the service is spot on. Everything I ate, I recommend. Beet salad is perfect Ceviche is made in front of you - very cool touch Yellow tail snapper - large perfectly flavored and fresh Havana pork - you have to try it if you dig on swine We had the Chocolate mouse dessert- excellent. This place is a winner...and being at the Ritz makes it that much better. Enjoy!
(5)Carol K.
The food here continues to be amazing! Beautifully prepared, artfully plated and presented with a flourish. The room itself is lovely, as well, overlooking the golf course and the tables set with sparkling crystal and glimmering china reflecting the lights overhead. The wine list is extensive and I was even pleasantly surprised when the sommelier offered me a more expensive bottle of wine at the price I was willing to pay (just goes to show you how marked up the wine at restaurants is, I guess) Service was spot on, on this visit. They expertly handled a table of 15 with the regimen of the military, making sure everyone got their food at the same time and that there no mistakes of the wrong plate being served to the wrong person. Our wine and water glasses were kept filled and I only had to look as if I had a question before someone would be at my side! This time I had the fried green tomatoes, the red snapper and a deconstructed banana split for dessert. Each looking lovely on the plate giving a feast for the eyes as well as the stomach! Not a cheap date by any means, but if you want high end dining in Orlando, Norman's at the Ritz does it beautifully!
(5)Vernon A.
I have eaten at both restaurants at this hotel. They are both very good. I was especially happy with the bread service and my soup. The conch soup was truly a treat. It had chewy conch pieces and. Yummy coconut topping that blended in perfectly. My entree was rib eye. I think I would have preferred a NY Strip for various reasons but this had a nice flavor. The potato and veggies that went with were all excellent. The guy I was with had fish and said it was excellent. We ordered a couple glasses of wine on waiter's recco and was good. For my purposes - biz dinner with an executive - was a cannot miss kind of place.
(4)Christopher H.
Foie gras French toast. There really isn't anything else I need to say about this restaurant. But, of course, I will. I was in town for a convention last week. A good friend and I have have a tradition of escaping the convention for a night and finding good food. Anyone who's ever attended a large convention knows how hard it is to survive a week on convention center food, and how wonderful it is just to get away from all the noise for a while. I was a bit concerned about finding a spot that would work this trip as this is, after all, Orlando. And the basic rule of this tradition is no chains. After a bit of Yelp research, Norman's seemed to be the best spot. But even then, I was worried - there are hotel restaurants and restaurants that happen to be in hotels, with the former being much more common. And hotel restaurants are basically always terrible. Trepidation aside, we set off to find food. Upon being seated we ordered a couple of cocktails (a kir royale for the lady which she enjoyed, and a manhattan for me which was above average). So far things are looking good. After we opened the menu to start perusing, the first thing that jumped out was the foie gras french toast. Well - that needs to be on the table. Then the steak tartare. And then a couple of fish options as we were of course in Florida. The foie gras french toast came out first, and it was love at first bite. Decadent. Salty. Sweet. Rich. Just - unbelievable. Probably one of the top 10 best things I've ever put in my mouth. And once we were done we became a bit concerned - there's a chance that the rest of the dinner will be shamed by this appetizer. Fortunately, we were mostly wrong. The foie gras french toast was by far the best dish we had over dinner, everything else was great as well. And our wine - a NZ sauvignon blanc, was tasty and actually quite reasonable price wise. The service throughout dinner was impeccable. Basically the moment we needed something there was a waiter right there ready to meet our needs. When you're stuck by the OCCC, finding somewhere to escape and avoid Red Lobster for dinner can be a challenge at best. Fortunately, Norman's is there to rescue you from chain or convention center food. oh - and there's foie gras french toast.
(5)Arthur C.
When I think of dining at the Ritz Carlton, I think of this place. From entering the restaurant, the service was great. Friendly and professional, and not overbearing. Started with the Oysters, Tuna, and Shrimp Ceviche. Oysters: Serviced over ice. You get 4, and they were good. Tuna: My dad said it was a bit fishy, but the blue potatoes and cavier than comes on the side was worth it Shrimp Ceviche: A good appetizer portion with big pieces of shrimp Chicken Mofongo: An interesting dish, with the chicken filled with mofongo over black beans. I enjoyed it Snapper: My dad finished everything, so I assume it was good We wanted a good dinner to end our 5 days in Florida, and this was a great choice. Easily the best meal we had all week and good atmosphere Dress code is business casual (no t-shirts, jeans OK).
(5)Tom V.
We went here for my birthday and was surprised to get see my name on the menu. The service throughout the night was outstanding. The food was good, but after reading the many reviews, I thought it should have been a little better. Atmosphere was good, although more library like than I would liked. Overall a great experience and would rate it 4.5 stars.
(4)Christopher B.
Amazing dining experience, as someone reviewed, about sums it up. I knew this place would be nice and it didn't disappoint. If you're looking for a nicer, upscale ambiance then this place easily fulfills it. As for the food, the ribeye was perfectly prepared, excellent flavor, and gone in a flash. I made the mistake of ordering the sorbet, which was a bit disappointing, but quickly fixed that by getting the best creme brulee I've ever had. In all seriousness, dinner here isn't complete with it! It's orgasmic! The wine, the champaign, the mixed drinks were all super. The staff was attentive and on top of things... can't find a complaint even if I were looking for one! ;)
(5)Alisa M.
Went for birthday dinner saturday night. Now one of my fav restaurants in Orlando. Located at the Ritz Carlton. Cuisine is a little more interesting than the usual chain restaurants in Orlando. Complimentary prosecco for the table was really nice. We ordered table side ceviche, fried green tomatoes, oysters, fish special, venison entree, chicken. Everything was excellent. Dessert was great as well. They seem to do alot of deconstructed desserts. Husband thought the deconstructed key lime was strange but he did eat it all. Food was great, service was great, reasonably priced. Go there! You won't be disappointed. Next time I'd like to try the cheese tray.
(4)David W.
Was down in Orlando for a business conference and took one of my clients to Norman's as they claim to be one of the best in the state of Florida, and well, Orlando sucks unless you are there for theme parks! Norman's at the Ritz Carlton was beyond elegant. Very quiet on a Sunday night, we closed the place down at 10pm. Only one other table remained. Dining room was this big circular room that was warm and inviting. Caribbean influence cuisine. James Beard award winning chef. This place has it all. We started out with table side shirmp ceviche, fried green tomatoes, empanadas and blue point oysters. Highlight for me was the bluepoints as they had a horseradish crema on top and then shaved lemon granita so the oysters were super cold with the horseradish kick! So fresh going down your tummy. Shrimp ceviche and empanadas were very good, but not stand outs. Fried Green were average. Stellar wine list of course, albeit pricey. But, it's The Ritz and thats what happens. Entrees included their famous Pork Havana, with smokey plantain crema, 21st century mole, black bean sweet corn salsa and golden grits. Dish was insanely good! I had the Rhum and Pepper painted grouper. Beautiful filet of grouper done with a spicy mango sauce and a cuban sweet potato mash stuffed inside a smoked poblano pepper! Third entree was the pan seared florida snapper, which is a staple on their menu. Citrus beurre blanc, asparagus and mashed potatoes. Simply done but excellent. Desserts were amazing. Deconstructed bananas foster and a cheesecake finished the night off right! As good as it gets in Orlando for sure, and a fine meal to boot!
(5)Kamal R.
We had an amazing experience on January 31st , 2014 . It was me & my wife's early valentine date. It could not even better because the service ,food , presentation, wine service off the hook. Our servers were Marco Antonio & Kelsey.
(5)Patt C.
Beautiful restaurant that's well-appointed. This is a Norman Van Aken kitchen. We split two appetizers: fried shrimp and croquettes . . . hoping we were going to get the shrimp and croquettes we got the previous evening at a private reception on Norman's patio. Not so. They were sort-of OK, but disappointing, compared to those we got at the reception. Dinner: we both got a white fish. One was grouper. Can't remember the other one. No need to go into details, because the menu changes weekly. It took more than 40 minutes to get the entrees. Why does it take that long to prepare fish? Fish tasted fine, but neither were spectacular. And both served in small bowls that had incredibly huge four-inch lips, and the actual food was in the bowl . . . miniscule portions. I've NEVER been to a restaurant where I ate all my entree. It happened here! As the dinner progressed, we were abandoned. Service fell apart, and we just wanted to leave. It took way too long to get the check and get it processed, and on and on.
(2)Gina P.
A-MAZ-ING!!! I'm about the biggest, pickiest foodie out there. It takes a lot to impressive me, from food flavor to service, and Norman's knocked it out of the park. My only complaint was that it's very expensive; however, I can't even really complain about that because I really don't mind spending $ if the experience is worth it. $300 plus tip, however, is still a bit much ($360 w/tip), but that covered the 7-course tasting menu with wine pairings for 2. With that said, the food was incredible. We raved and couldn't stop talking about every single dish. The chef is very talented. Our favorite dishes were the cobia and steak, which was probably the best steaks we've ever had in our lives. The scallop appetizer was so fresh and full of flavor. And either of us had ever had such a good soufflé. If you love high-quality, unusual food that you'll never be able to make at home, go to Norman's. You will not regret it. And do the tastings menu with wine pairings. It's expensive, but it's an amazing 3-hour'ish experience you won't forget. The service was also wonderful. Every time we went to the restroom, we were welcomed back into the restaurant. Our napkins were folded every time we got up. Everyone went out of their way to make us feel special....the way a restaurant experience should be. Do it!
(5)Brian T.
Just had dinner here last night for Christmas Eve. 4 course menu with a wine tasting that was not overpriced. Service was amazing; from Dora, to our head waiter Frank and even Darren. Top notch. Food was to die for, local vegetables and seafood. My only gripe is all the kids on their cell phones at dinner playing games. Should ban game consoles when dining out.
(5)Dr. J.
We had a FABULOUS dining experience at Norman's. Great wine selection, amazing salad with dried cherries and a superb vinaigrette, delicious artisian bread, beautifully prepared Florida Grouper and Snapper. The place has it all - wonderful ambiance, attentive staff and amazing food to make a very memorable evening at the Ritz!
(5)Jason D.
Great steak but the potato confi was the absolute best potato I ever put in my mouth. Service staff was friendly and on point. Cory our server was great. A true foodie at hear. Great evening.
(5)Nathan T.
--------------------- The Quick: --------------------- Actual Rating: 4.5 stars; Although I havent explored all culinary possibilities in the central Florida area, I can still say with certainty that Norman's is the closest you're going to get to Michelin
(4)Att A.
I should have known better to expect a foodie place in Florida. The service on its own deserves 3 stars but the food I'd give a pallid 2 stars. It's all the food right?So I ordered the tasting menu with high hopes. When the first dish (yuca battered shrimp with coleslaw) came like it was an order from panda express (tasted like it too), I prepared myself for the rest of the menu. The salad was nothing to speak about. The fish dish was bland. The filet mignon came out too salty and peppery. To our server's credit, he did offer to bring me another filet mignon dish back (no moreeeeeeeeeee for me at that point) I kept waiting for things to get better but even the dessert was a disappointing flat, dry chocolate souffle. Anyway, lesson learnt here is not to expect foodie dining in a tourist town.
(2)Candace C.
The Skinny: a fusion of cuisines, Norman's brings out the best flavours of the Key West region (5); Service: not exactly fine dining service, the staff made up for it by keeping the water glasses filled and the hot ciabatta rolls coming (4.5); Value: the best meal we've had in a long time for about $90ish/person, no wine, pre-tax and tip. Sweet (5). Okay, have to give a shout out to all the Yelp Peeps who wrote reviews about how great this place was. My husband and I both ordered the chef's tasting menu therefore allowing us to try the majority of the items on the menu. Initially we were sort of reluctant about the menu... I mean, fried shrimp? conch chowder? Where's the foie? Where's the truffle? Trust me, Norman's made us eat our words. Norman's fried shrimp is the best fried shrimp we've ever had. Succulent, firm shrimp in a wondrously crisp coating. Biting in was a revelation. I will never scoff at fried shrimp on a tasting menu again. The conch chowder was rich, decadent and coated our mouths with a liquid heaven. Both fish dishes were delicious but the real treat was the meat course. My husband got the serving of tenderloin while I got a roasted pork loin dish with Cuban flavours. The tenderloin was excellent of course but it was the roasted pork loin with mole, rice and beans that really hit this place outta the park for me. The pork was perfectly cooked while the mole added some undefinable spicy sweetness. It's rare that I can't pick out one or two ingredients out of a sauce but the composition of this mysterious magic sauce is beyond me. All I can say folks - it's really really good. The beans were especially impressive. Too often, beans are overcooked and mushy. These beans had the right amount of bite, texture and flavour. Wow! Amazing! Did I mention the bread service? Piping hot ciabatta rolls fresh from the oven - slightly chewy, pillowy soft, utterly delicious. Can we say "carb-orgasm"? The only thing I can find fault with this place was the coordination of service. Often times, our waiter was too late to introduce the dishes being served which is a standard in establishments like this. But that's a really minor detail. Most importantly, our glasses were constantly filled and our bread plates never empty. Considering the level of cuisine, the uniqueness of the flavours and the reasonable pricing for a fine dining establishment, I would say this place rates a five.
(5)Jema J.
I tried this restaurant for the first time on Valentine's day with a guy who wanted to impress me. While his intentions were great, I was not impressed with the food. The service, decor and atmosphere, was impeccable; I meant, extremely beautiful. The food was a complete different. Giving shrimp cocktail a different name, won't change the nature of what it is. The food was overpriced, very small portion for a high price. I had a tilapia, which wasn't the best, as a matter of fact, I make better tilapia. Once again, the place was gorgeous, however, the food wasn't worth.
(2)Shea's Lounge S.
The sunset was a grand backdrop to a romantic crisp and delightful evening. Pretty people handsome staff and elegant table settings all without being stuffy. Food presentation was devine( sorry no pics this time, I was focused on dining with my hubby) but believe me that vibrant bold Colorful where all part of a sensational experience. Foie gras yes is as Devine as one would think ( check out the tip) heirloom tomato salad was a great pair to lighten up this decadent dish. Grouper was tender yet firm all in one. Citrus notes danced with creamy island flavors And yes the wine ... Just let them pair what's great and you won't be disappointed . Don't skip dessert! We ordered 3 different chocolate , island split and a cheese cake and shared away. Try a hot tub... Baileys Kaluha frangelica .. Enough to make 1 shot in a snifter glass pair with a double espresso Poured over to warm it up. The smell is intoxicating
(4)Mark L.
Late review - this past spring I had to opportunity to check out Norman's when in Orlando on business trying to recreate my French Laundry expereince (minus toothache). Norman's did not disappoint - this is where Norman Van Aken created a lifetime memory. Ceviche was out of this world. Conch soup wonderful. Snapper even better. Excellent wine list and a great scotch selection to top it off. Pricey? Yes. But worth every dollar.
(5)Willie W.
We've been three times now and the only variable is how awesome the waiter performs. The scale we've experienced is "awesome," "very awesome," and "completely awesome." We like to do the chef's tasting menu with wine pairings. Best to stay overnight at the Ritz or JW! When it's great there are two wines and two food items with each course. Last time, disappointingly, the tasting was limited to one item each course but it was still a blast. Be ready for something odd on the list. I love it; my wife is slightly less enthusiastic for gamey, strange items. We always leave happy, well fed, well served and a little awed.
(4)Ursula K.
I liked this place so much I ate here two nights in a row. Sat at the bar. The bartender was terrific - very helpful and friendly. Had the beet salad and red snapper the first night. Simply prepared and absolutely yummy. Wasn't as hungry the next night so had the conch chowder and steak tartare. The chowder was rich and delicious with a great blend of flavors. Steak tartare is some of the best I've ever tasted. Left feeling very satisfied and well taken care of.
(5)Janine R.
WOW talk about a 5 star restaurant and winner of a AAA Diamond Award. I can honestly say this is by far one of the fanciest and best restaurants I have ever been to. If you are in Orlando and have some extra dough to play with, I definitely suggest dinning here. From the moment you walk into the Ritz you automatically feel the wealth in the air. This hotel is known for ultra high end luxury as well as fine dining. It was no surprise that Normans was the same. The layout of the space reminds me of a compass. The center of the space is encased with a pretty cool wooden cellar and all the tables are layed from this point forming one large circle. Most of the servers are sommeliars so picking a wine is that much easier. So, what exactly is New World Cuisine? Well I didn't exactly know myself until I saw the menu. It consists of some Mediterranean dishes infused with a latin/modern twist. At least that's what I got from this menu. I ordered the the Bacalao Croquettes with a salsa Verde sauce to share. These were just perfect especially since I'm a huge fan of croquettes. For the main course I ordered the Roasted Brest of Organic Chicken Mofongo with Sweet Plantain stuffing on a bed of beans. OMG! was this amazing. From the perfectly cooked chicken to the plantain stuffing... it was all just PERFECT. Who would've thought to stuff plantain puree into a chicken? Surely, not me. I highly recommend this dish to anyone you will not be disappointed. As for dessert, I opted to skip on this because I was extremely full. I guess this just gives me a good excuse to go back and try the dessert platters. If you are willing to spend a little more cash on fine dining then Norman's is your place to eat.
(5)Thomas T.
Quality meal. A bit pricey for the bite.
(3)Chris X.
Norman's inventive, latin-inspired cuisine is a differentiated find in a chain restaurant town and a rare fine-dining experience indeed. Ingredients are as fresh as it gets, and they all come together in an elegant setting attended by the exceptional level of service one would equate with the Ritz Carlton brand. The dining room is exquisite, minimalist and much smaller (but not crowded) than I had imagined, giving it more of an intimate feel. My GF and I wanted to explore the menu a little, so we shared everything: - Empanadas: very tasty and score extra points for a) baking vs. frying. b) emphasizing filling over the pastry and c) not overseasoning the dipping sauce. They Ritz-Carltonized this simple latin street fare, and I salute them. - Yucca stuffed crispy shrimp: a real hit. Perfect texture and maintaining the shrimp's succulence demonstrates outstanding technique. Slaw and tartar sauce were great accompaniments that added some balanced flavors - Cobia crudo: This is a great local fish, and they (wisely) didn't do anything to detract from its delicate flavor. Avocado puree was the perfect touch. - Rhum and pepper painted grouper: this was the hit of the night. Best grouper I've ever had. The mango mojo gives it a blackened taste that is the right combo of sweet/salty, and the fish stays moist and meaty. The wine list is deep, although I wish they'd have some more interesting whites (given seafood heavy menu) to spice things up beyond the standard chards and savignons. The service was crisp and attentive, without being overbearing. Extra points for splitting plates into shared portions without our asking and comping our dessert just because. Norman's has upped the bar. I will be back.
(5)Tet W.
Wow...what a wonderful place to dine with your family, significant other or a business dinner. The service is top notch and the had all your beverages on ice. They also have a choice of breads to choose from as well as different salts to try with your bread. I kept it simple for dinner. I started with the Brazilian Styled Creamy Cracked Conch Chowder which was made with saffron, orange, star anise, and coconut cloud. This was a interesting soup sweet and refreshing. This is the first time I've ever had chowder that is sweet but I really liked this soup. It is very rich in flavor but very light. For my entree I had the Rhum and Pepper Painted Chilean Sea Bass which was accompanied with mango mojo and Cuban sweet potato mash. I've never had Chilean Sea Bass before but I really liked it. It's not flaky like most other fish. It is hearty, thick and you cut it like steak. No wonder it's so expensive, but the flavor is very simple, mild and delicate. The Cuban Sweet Mash was a great side dish to got with the Chilean Sea Bass. Overall, my experience was excellent and I would highly recommend anyone staying in Orlando to dine here.
(5)Dani D.
One of the best places in the area. Fabulous food and ambiance. Extensive wine list and attentive staff.
(5)Bambi L.
We just dined for my son's 21st bday, six of us, and Paul provided exceptional service while Chef Norman Van Aken prepared an unbelievable tailored tasting menu for us clearly showing off fine ingredients prepared to perfection. From the personalized menu--literally said my son's name and Happy Birthday, to the extensive wine list, knowledgeable staff, and the delightful amuse-bouche to kick off our several hour display of creative Latin, Caribbean, Asian, and African flavors that danced in our mouths. Paul also paired select wines beautifully. We are foodies from the Washington DC area and found the attention to detail and the value outstanding. We were all treated like kings/queens and I can't wait to go back--special occasion or not!
(5)Aliya J.
I was not too impressed with the food at Norman's. I mean, the food was good, but for the prices, I expected a lot better... and I'm pretty lenient when it comes to reviews on food places, because I LOVE TO EAT. My family and I came for dinner here, and the place is appointed beautifully with tables placed far enough apart to have an intimate conversation... I like that. So, yeah, the food: Meh. However, I will say that there was a coconut/bisque type of soup that was pretty mind-blowing. The flavor was amazing. It's not on their regular menu. Shame. Other than that, everything else was pretty underwhelming. Service was spot-on, as it should be at the Ritz. Our server was really attentive to us and offered a great wine recommendation. There ARE times when I love dining at the Ritz. Their breakfast/brunch buffet downstairs at the Vineyard Grill is fantastic, and for $81 (I think that includes tip) you get unlimited champagne/mimosas. MUCH better value and MUCH better food. Maybe I was there on an off day... or maybe I was in a bitchy mood. Either way, I didn't come away being wowed. I say save your dinner money and come for brunch!
(3)Jonathan G.
This place is amazing. I am a foodie who enjoys good meals at everything from dives to 3 star's and Norman's is the best meal I've had in at least a year. The service was very attentive and the food was impeccable. Literally every course of the DIY tasting menu I put together on my solo dinner excelled. The pork loin was to die for. Best fried green tomatoes I've ever had. The cheeses and key lime semi Freddo crushed it. The empanadas and foie gras made me swoon. You seemingly cannot go wrong with anything on the menu. I used to hate going to conferences in Orlando because I felt the food was substandard and chained out. Norman's corrected me of that view and gave me a great go to.
(5)Angela B.
I booked a large table at Norman's at the last minute, a day ahead of time. I was required to sign a contract because it was a group of 10. Then our plans changed and we were not able to keep the reservation. I am very disappointed that I wasn't able to actually eat there, but Meghan was so accommodating and helpful with our last minute cancellation I can only image what the rest of the staff is like. Next time I am in Orlando I am making a point to get to Norman's for sure!
(5)Aldo F.
This is Kind of a late review. But my experience was excellent in this place, food, service and drinks were all very good.
(4)Annie L.
A great place to celebrate with a fancy dinner, classy service, and great drinks.
(5)Noelle W.
The food was incredible- Try one of each of the desserts- you will not be disappointed. The Filet was the best I've ever had. Pricey- but it is dining at its finest, great for special occasions or a romantic date night
(5)K C.
Amazing..... We were fortunate to have the tasting menu, so the plates came out small, but amazing Floribean flavors and tastes. Service was stellar, and the bread was even more surprising to everyone at our table. Fresh, hot, little ciabattas that melted in your mouth. The wine list is one of the best I have seen in many cities, and the bar service is also a big draw, as well. Cheese cart at the end of the meal was a good memory, as the 5 year aged goats milk Gouda was the winner.
(5)Nathan H.
Second only to Victoria and Alberts for the best fine dining in Orlando.
(5)Daniel D.
Make sure you make your reservations early if you want to get in at a busy time. I went here for a special occasion. The service, like elsewhere at the Ritz, was amazing. I had the plantain filled roasted chicken. Everything down to the black beans were cooked to perfection. I simply have never tasted chicken that delicious before in my life. I tried their chimichurri ribeye steak, it was tasty, but I felt the spices were too distracting from the flavor of the steak. I finished the evening with a pot of some of the best Earl Grey tea I've ever had in my life. I would definitely recommend this place to anyone in Orlando.
(5)Jenneffer P.
Wonderful staff and beautiful restaurant, what a great way to celebrate.
(5)Jane E.
Amazing dining experience. I was not expecting much, but was blown out of the water. Have tried Victoria's and Alberts and wanted to try something at the same level but different. This was recommended. The atmosphere is amazing. The food is done perfectly and with thought and attention. The wait staff are knowledgeable and attentive. I have gone to many of these restaurants before and I can just see the waiter trying to remember the ingredients. At this place the wait staff seemed to be a team with the chef and were as excited for us to taste the dish as they were in bringing it. Great attention to detail and suggestions. I have eaten at high end places in Boston and other such areas. I can safely say that this place compares at the same level. I would definitely go to this place again.
(5)Gigi G.
I'm not sure if I'd be going here again. At first I was really excited, I mean come on it's in the Ritz Carlton, which lets face it is a pretty well know reputable hotel not to mention the place looks gorgeous inside and out, however, while the service was outstanding and the staff was extremely attentive (I think I had maybe 4 servers that day, one taking my drink orders and others serving, refiling and so on), the food wasn't as good as I expected it to be. Excited about the Mediterranean/American food options I can't say it was as flavorful as I'm used to eating. I've eaten better more savory food in a local dine in. The ambiance was gorgeous, with plenty of seating and beautiful architecture around to admire. Again, the service was wonderful but I can't say I was impressed with the food. Overall review: Affordable mediocre food in a beautiful room.
(3)Brian J.
Had the tasting menu with wine pairings. It was excellent. My wife had the shrimp ceviche prepared at the table. Extremely fresh and delicious. Her filet was a generous cut cooked to perfection. Our server Ismail was friendly, attentive and never in the way.From top to bottom the evening was everything we expect from the Ritz and more. Definitely will be back.
(5)Megan H.
YES!!! Finally got the chance to experience this incredible place on my 10th anniversary and it was everything I expected and then some! We went with the chef's tasting menu so we could get a little bit of everything. Well, the portion sizes were HUGE so we got a lot more than we bargained for! I'm definitely not complaining because everything was absolutely exquisite. I also went with the wine flight so I could sample a different glass with ever meal, and it was a really good decision. The waiter even wrote down all of the wines at my request. I love that they clear off every bit of silverware in between each course and replace your napkin with a fresh one when you leave the table. Maybe I'm just easily impressed but the whole evening felt like we were the most important people there! I also appreciate that they are not one bit snobbish there. They genuinely treat you like a valued patron and I even saw a few people in jeans and polos that were fitting right in just fine. Such an amazing place that you really have to see it for yourself!
(5)Peter G.
Can't say enough about the food, and staff here. Got engaged at a dinner here, and the staff was AWESOME to work with, the food was top notch, and she said yes. :)
(5)Gabe S.
Highs: Dining at it's best. Cuisine beyond delicious, atmosphere that is elegant but not stuffy. Service that anticipates your every need. Lows: None. Some may say the price is high but I believe you get what you pay for and in this regard, Norman's over-delivers and is more than worth the price. Overall: This will be a 'special occasion' restaurant for us and certainly worth future visits ... Soon!
(5)Ed M.
Had dinner here last night and was impressed at the professionalism of the staff as well as the diverse menu and eclectic approach to the preparation of the meal. Pamper yourself one evening and make reservations to treat you and that other special someone at Normals at the Ritz-Carlton.
(5)Jason M.
What a great place. The perfect antidote to my perception of the average Orlando dining experience (heavily themed, family-oriented, or both). Classy without pretension. Top-notch ingredients, including produce from local farms. The preparation and presentation are equally as good. Excellent wine service. Staff that actually cares if you're having a great experience. The "new world cuisine" concept really really works. My Pork Nuevo Latino came perfectly cooked, with amazingly fresh and black bean and corn salsa. If there is a downside, it's portion size - there is more of everything than you'd expect, especially with the entrees. Just go, and enjoy.
(5)Renee W.
The service was outstanding and the food did not disappoint either. The shrimp ceviche appetizer was wonderful and we highly recommend. The wine service was also great. The dining room and atmosphere was top notch too. The only reason I did not give it 5 stars is due to the polenta served with the scallops was dry and the pork was also a bit on the dry side. However, the cheese cart and cheese course at the end of the meal would knock my rating up to 4 1/2 stars!
(4)nhan d.
Very good food. Portion size is perfect and not gigantic so you can enjoy more than one main dish. Set up like a European or Tapas style menu with lots of creative a la carte choices. Not a bad dish in the house. Service is excellent. The food is prepared quickly. I think the food is on the same level as most restaurants in a 4 or 5 star hotel resort. This is better than say the Grand Bohemian's restaurant.
(4)Phil K.
A wonderful way to celebrate and bring in the New Year.
(5)Marie M.
Delicious food, fantastic service amazing menu. Well be back!!
(5)Chrissy G.
One of the best meals of our life. My husband and I used to frequent Normans in Miami so as soon as we knew we were coming up to Orlando for the weekend, I knew the mini vacation would start there. Norman's did not disappoint and left our fond memories of the Miami location in the dust. Knowing how good the food is, we chose the 5 course tasting menu. We explained to our server that my husband is allergic to crab and neither one of us like salmon and we let the chef decide the rest. Our first course was a mahi mahi sashimi marinated in a citrus blend with jicama and fish roe. The fish tasted as if it were just caught and though the portion was plentiful, we could have easily had 2nds, it was that good. Next course was a Norman's staple, yuca stuffed shrimp. Again, delicious, it was served with a cabbage slaw that we LOVED (I usually don't like cabbage). Crispy, hot, and not at all greasy, the shrimp was another winner. My favorite course was next. Yellow tail on a small bed of the best mashed potatoes ever with asparagus. Seriously, the BEST. So good, so fresh. We were pleasantly surprised by the "main" course. Assuming we were going to have beef, we were served a rather large portion of pork tenderloin that was as tender as any cut of prime beef. The 3 sauces that accompanied it were equally as yummy and the cheesy grits didn't fall far behind either. As if all of this were not enough, we threw in a cheese course, and then the final course was desert. I am not a fan of bananas but we were served a twist on bananas foster with macadamia nut ice cream. The ice cream was creamy and delicious and my husband was quick to scoop up my share of the banana. Paired with half a bottle of wine and a few drinks our bill was steep but worth every penny. Service was impeccable, everything was perfect. An added bonus was Norman Van Aken himself was there too a rarity these days for celebrity chefs. I HIGHLY recommend this restaurant.
(5)Kiera D.
Mmmmm perfect! Need I say more? I also love that in this restaurant, they don't care about your age. Usually in nicer restaurants, if you're under the age of 21, they give you a little attitude but not here! Super friendly! A+!
(5)Annette G.
Wowah. I am a newbie to fine dining, so perhaps I'm easily impressed. That said, this place knocked my socks off. I came for birthday dinner. My sister made the reservations, so when the menus arrived, they said HAPPY BIRTHDAY ANNETTE!!! on top. Along with the personalized menus, we got a complimentary bottle of Proseco. Yum! So awesome. We were all set to do the weekend tasting menu, but ended up ordering off full meals instead. 6 courses, 3 hours and 2 bottles of wine later, we were all stuffed and happy. Even after the bill came (YOWZA!) The cuisine is 'Floribbean', where super fresh fish takes center stage. I had a humongous piece of yellow-tail snapper that had been caught in Key West the day before. They do have beef and chicken on the main dish menu though, so don't fret if you only eat mammals. Vegetarians...umm.. there's a really good tofu dish as an appetizer and an awesome beet salad as a first course. Other than that? You're not going to find something on the menu. I bet though if you told them you didn't eat meat when you make the reservation, they'll have something set up for you to choose. It's that kind of place. Accommodating. Delicious. WORTH IT! The service is stupid great. Like, ok, these guys went to school to be servers, right? There is some college out there that offers a BA in table service, right? Because this is unreal. When our first server forgot that it was Friday and didn't know there was a tasting menu, he was whisked away (to detention?) and replaced with an extremely helpful and knowledgeable waiter that really made the meal. While Norman's won't make it on to my regular rotation of places to go, it is on the top of my list when I want a special treat or looking to really impress.
(5)T.S. T.
I have been to several 5 course menus with wine pairings over the last few weeks and Norman's by far has blown the others out of the water. When we got there we asked the restaurant manager to surprise with what ever dishes and wines they'd like to bring out, I now I wish I would've taken notes on what wines were served. This was probably the most delicious dining out experience I had and I truly felt like royalty.
(5)Miquel R.
was there with my wife to celebrate birthday recently - we had an enjoyable and memorable experience from the minute we walked in to when we left. We had an excellent server (I think his name is robert , he looks / sounds like anthony bourdain) and we also had the four course meal. My compliments to the chef and the staff. Excellent from start to finish!
(4)luis s.
Utterly amazing! This place is very elegant and has excellent service. The menu is not very extensive but has a good selection. Norman's is a "fusion" style restaurant. They combine different ethnic foods and put them all in one dish. I had the grouper it was grilled topped with a guava sauce. Next to my delicious filet was the oddest yet most delicious companion dish. It was the outer skin of a pickle stuffed with mofongo. Mofongo is a Puerto Rican dish and it is essentially sweet mashed bananas. It was an odd combination but it was an orgasmic experience. The gf had a deliciously grilled chicken stuffed with mofongo on a bed of black beans. Our server was a somelier and was extremely helpful and knowledgeable. For the first time we had a chilled Malbec and let me tell you it is the only way to drink it. Having it chilled changes the consistency and taste I strongly recommend Norman's and chilled Malbec
(5)Sandi W.
What an amazing experience that I was fortunate enough to attend. We were seated at the beautiful Wine Table in the center of the restaurant. We chose to be served a several courses from the chef rather from the menu. They ranged from seared Fois Gras with French Toast bites (my first taste!) to a spice rubbed Pork with a Mango Chutney and ending with small chocolate bites. The wine, needless to say, was exceptional. Would love to dine here again.
(5)Heather S.
The food is 'to die for!'. Atmosphere is fabulous & waitstaff know their stuff.
(5)Sarah H.
We were visiting Disneyworld and decided to come here for my birthday dinner. I can't imagine a more pleasant dining experience. Everything on the menu sounded delicious. And everything we ordered tasted delicious! The food was excellent, we tried both pork and seafood dishes. Simple fishes, but they came alive in new ways with the spices and presentation. And for my dessert (key lime pie with an alcohol infused ice cream, so good!) they wrote "Happy Birthday" in chocolate syrup....I couldn't bring myself to eat the writing! Prices were a little steep, but seemed reasonable for the ambiance, service, and quality of food. It was a little over $250 for dinner for two with a bottle of imported wine. A very special birthday, we left very happy!
(5)N T.
My husband took me to Norman's for our 4th anniversary. There's no self-parking, only valet. Restaurant is beautiful, it situated right next to Ritz Carlton. My lobsters bisque was perfect, and so was my yellow tail. I had sorbet for desserts and it was the most rich flavorful desserts ever. Worth every pennies. I'll make him take me to Norman again very soon.
(4)Mark S.
Good to Great food - service exceptional!
(5)K T.
Excellent service and food. For entertaining large groups-- Normans has the best pre-dinner cocktail location on their back patio. Center wine/chef table was perfect for large gout and round table shape helped with conversation. Not the cheapest place being at The Ritz- but worth it
(5)Edith O.
Norman's at the Ritz really is as good as everyone says. I recently went with my bf for the first time and we had a wonderful experience. We took advantage of the Orlando Magical Dining menu which offered a three course meal for the price of what an entree alone typically costs. Awesome!! We chose to do the wine pairing, which ended up being a delicious and entertaining decision. I started with the yuca stuffed crispy shrimp drizzled with a sour orange mojo. Smooth yuca covered a giant shrimp, covered in a perfectly crispy panko-like shell. By far one of the most creative and delicious shrimp dishes I've ever had. As my main course I ordered the Rioja braised short-rib, served over smashed boniato, or cuban sweet potato. The red wine gravy was delicious, it went great with those delicious potatoes. I wanted to order an extra side of the smashed garlic boniato, but instead I decided to demonstrate some self control! For dessert I ordered the Havana banana split. It was rhum-flamed bananas, served with a macadamia nut brittle ice cream served inside a mini-chocolate bowl. It was a delicious finish to a spectacular meal. As you may imagine, the service was impeccable. Besides the 5-star dinning, Norman is a beautiful restaurant, with a gorgeous dark wood ceiling and wine cellar in the middle of the restaurant that makes for the perfect ambience. They offer a six course tasting menu which pretty much guarantees my return. Two thumbs up, Norman's!
(5)Hillary C.
Norman's absolutely lives up to its celebrity chef's reputation. The food is, without question, worthy of 5 stars. Everything we ordered had a fresh, flavorful quality that totally impressed me. We especially liked coconut soup, the heirloom tomatoes, and the grilled pork. The hostess was very understanding about our delay arriving for our reservation and our waiter was wildly enthusiastic about his job.
(5)Matthew M.
How this is not one of the top restaurants in Orlando and has yet to have many yelpers visit puzzles me. The Chef, Norman Van Aken is a pioneer in American Floridian cuisine and is a James Beard Award winner several times over. I recently spent a week in Orlando on business and this by far is the best restaurant we visited. If your like me and are searching and searching for a place in Orlando to ignite some passion for food this is one of the few places in Orlando that does this. The dining room is opulent standing up to the Ritz's glitz. It has a great Floridian-Caribbean laid back feel. People were dressed in suits and in linen shirts like they just came from the beach. The menu is a journey through Chef Van Akens extensive knowledge of exotic fruits, bright flavors, and Caribbean influenced Americana. The menu has something for everyone. An interesting hot and cold foie gras dish for the gourmet and great cuts of meat for the gourmand. I had no problem getting reservations a week in advance and it seemed I could have done it a couple of days before. If you are visiting Orlando this is a must visit for any foodie or any one tired of Orlando's many middle of the road restaurants.
(5)