Fine dining in Orlando was put on the global map by internationally renowned chefs such as Emeril Lagasse, Kat Cora and Roy Yamaguchi, and during the past decade home grown talent the likes of John Rivers (4Rivers Smokehouse), Kevin Fonzo (K restaurant), and James and Julie Petrakis (The Ravenous Pig) has extended the destinations foodie image.

Yet, recent research by Visit Orlando identified that many national business leaders/influencers still believe Orlando lacks mature dining and entertainment essential to strengthening relationships with business partners and clients. The campaign aims to showcase Orlando “after meeting” experiences, with a primary focus on dining and entertainment, in an elevated, upscale and sophisticated way.

The print and online campaign creative showcases restaurants in each of the newly identified six dining and entertainment districts of Orlando, they are; Winter Park, Restaurant Row, Convention Area, Downtown, Universal/CityWalk, and Disney/Lake Buena Vista Area. A new microsite OrlandoDistricts.com showcases these new districts with links to the restaurants and videos with local chefs sharing their take on the Orlando culinary scene.

“Through research we heard from meetings and convention clients that the perception of our destination was there was not enough to do after meetings were done and this is why Orlando was not selected,” said Danielle Courtenay, chief marketing officer for Visit Orlando. “As our residents know, we have wonderful dining options and this campaign will raise the profile of dining and entertainment in Orlando.”

“Orlando’s culinary scene has definitely matured with local chef’s creating fun and exciting new restaurants. I’m excited that Visit Orlando is taking the lead in showcasing our craft,” said Kevin Fonzo, Chef/Owner of K Restaurant. “Food is a passion for us and we have a friendly rivalry amongst the chefs that pushes us to create new dining experiences for our customers.”