9 Best Mall Restaurants in Florida That Are Worth a Shopping Trip on Their Own

Shopping in Florida isn’t just about finding the perfect outfit or home decor – it’s also about discovering amazing food without leaving the mall. From fancy steakhouses to casual seafood spots, Florida’s shopping centers hide some seriously good eats. These nine mall restaurants are so tasty, you might find yourself planning a shopping trip just as an excuse to grab a meal.

1. Hocca (The Florida Mall, Orlando)

Brazilian street food meets shopping mall convenience at this hidden gem. The star of the menu? Their famous mortadella sandwich that draws long lines of hungry shoppers looking for an authentic taste of São Paulo.

Don’t miss their Brazilian cheese bread (pão de queijo) – little cheesy puffs that make the perfect snack while browsing the mall’s offerings.

2. The Capital Grille (The Mall at Millenia, Orlando)

Luxury shopping deserves equally luxurious dining, and The Capital Grille delivers exactly that. This upscale steakhouse offers a refined escape from the bustling mall atmosphere with its dark wood paneling and attentive service.

Dry-aged steaks are the main attraction, each cut perfectly prepared and served with classic steakhouse sides. Their wine list features over 350 selections, making it a favorite spot for celebrating special occasions or simply treating yourself after a successful shopping spree.

For a true indulgence, try their signature Porcini Rubbed Bone-In Ribeye with 15-year aged balsamic.

3. Seasons 52 (Plaza Venezia, Orlando)

Fresh, seasonal ingredients shine at this health-conscious restaurant where no menu item exceeds 595 calories. The menu changes four times a year to highlight the best of each season, ensuring every visit offers something new to discover.

Their flatbreads and mini-indulgence desserts (served in shot glasses) have developed a cult following among Orlando shoppers. Wine enthusiasts appreciate their extensive by-the-glass program featuring over 50 options, expertly paired with seasonal dishes by their in-house sommelier.

4. North Italia (Dadeland Mall, Miami)

Handmade pasta and pizza dough prepared fresh daily form the heart of this modern Italian eatery. The open kitchen design lets shoppers watch chefs stretch dough and craft pasta by hand – a mesmerizing sight that builds anticipation for the meal to come.

Their Strozzapreti pasta with Bloomsdale spinach has become legendary among Miami mall-goers. Weekend brunch here features Italian twists on classics, like their Short Rib Hash with crispy potatoes and poached eggs.

5. Marlow’s Tavern (Lee Vista Promenade, Orlando)

Comfort food gets an upscale makeover at this neighborhood-style tavern that feels miles away from typical mall dining. The black and white checkered floors and exposed brick walls create a cozy atmosphere where shoppers linger over craft beers and elevated pub classics. Their Tavern Burger topped with crisp bacon, aged cheddar, and special sauce has developed a following that brings people to the mall specifically for lunch.

The spacious patio offers a perfect spot to unwind after navigating crowded stores. Happy hour specials on both food and drinks make this a popular post-shopping destination for locals who know the secret of this mall-adjacent gem.

6. Bricks & Bowls (The Mall at Millenia, Orlando)

Health-conscious shoppers flock to this colorful açaí bowl and smoothie spot for guilt-free refueling. Unlike typical food court options, every item here focuses on fresh, nutrient-dense ingredients that provide sustained energy for continued shopping adventures.

The signature Rainbow Bowl – a vibrant creation topped with perfectly arranged fruit slices, coconut flakes, and honey – regularly appears on Instagram feeds of Orlando visitors. Customization options abound, allowing picky eaters to create their perfect combination.

Grab-and-go options make it easy to enjoy while browsing stores, though many choose to pause at their brightly colored seating area to fully enjoy these photogenic creations.

7. Brio Italian Grille (The Gardens Mall, Palm Beach Gardens)

Tuscan-inspired architecture and warm lighting transport shoppers from retail therapy to Italian countryside dining in seconds.

Their Pasta Alla Vodka, rich with cream and pancetta, provides the perfect carb reload after hours of shopping. Families appreciate the children’s menu that goes beyond typical kid fare with right-sized portions of quality Italian dishes.

The weekend brunch offering adds Tuscan twists to morning classics – try the Berries & Cream French Toast that has shoppers setting early mall arrival times just to enjoy breakfast here.

8. Bonefish Grill (Brandon Centre South, Brandon)

Fresh seafood might seem unexpected in a shopping center, but this polished casual restaurant delivers ocean-to-table quality that surprises first-time visitors. The modern, nautical-themed interior creates a pleasant escape from shopping stress.

Their legendary Bang Bang Shrimp – crispy shrimp tossed in a creamy, spicy sauce – has achieved cult status among Florida mall-goers. Wednesday Bang Bang Shrimp specials even drive mall traffic on otherwise quiet weeknights.

Seasonal fish selections change regularly, each available with four signature sauce options that let diners customize their perfect seafood experience after a day of finding perfect fits in nearby stores.

9. Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. (Universal CityWalk Orlando, Orlando)

Movie magic meets seafood at this Forrest Gump-themed restaurant that turns dining into entertainment. Located in Universal’s shopping and dining district, the restaurant embraces its film connection with movie memorabilia and servers who quiz guests on Forrest Gump trivia between courses.

Peel-and-eat shrimp buckets and coconut shrimp with tropical dipping sauce remain favorites among shoppers taking breaks from souvenir hunting. The playful atmosphere, with license plates reading “RUN FORREST RUN” and “STOP FORREST STOP” to signal servers, adds fun to the dining experience.

Don’t miss their signature “Run Across America” sampler that offers tastes of multiple shrimp preparations on one shareable platter.