Locals.
Jaleo loves ’em.
And while this sprawling Spanish palace at Disney Springs sees plenty — after all, few folks and even fewer foodies have not heard of Jaleo’s famed founder, James Beard Award-winning chef and philanthropist José Andrés — there’s always room for more. Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining, says Jaleo’s general manager Mario Bernal, is a locals-centric annual phenomenon.
“We really want them to come and enjoy the restaurant,” says general manager Mario Bernal. “A lot of the business in Disney Springs is due to the fact that people are coming to the parks. We do get locals here, of course, but this is a great way to expand that.”
Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining returns Aug. 18 with new pricing feature
This is Jaleo’s fourth year in the Magical Dining round-up, and just as the program’s spirit of giving back to the community falls right in line with its corporate philosophy (Andrés’ World Central Kitchen nonprofit provides fresh meals in response to humanitarian, climate and community crises around the globe), so, too, are the creative spirits in the kitchen just as giving.
Jaleo’s offerings are broad, even by Magical Dining standards. It’s not by accident, says Bernal.
“There are some things we just can’t take off,” he says, laughing. “These are the things that if you came in during other times of the year, we would still recommend for you to try.
Things like the pan con tomate starter that is equal parts crisp, toasty bread and juicy tomato. Or the croquetas de pollo, which Bernal pains to choose between when prompted. The josper-grilled chicken thigh and made-to-order tortilla de patatas cause the same conflict amid the main dishes.
“Come with someone else so you can get both,” he urges. “Even better, come as a group of four so you can try everything.”
Indeed, visiting as a group works especially well here, since Jaleo’s Spanish menu is tapas-forward. And at $40 for three courses, which Bernal estimates is roughly $15-20 lower during Magical Dining, you’ve got a budget for some add-on options, including a veggie paella for $9 extra. Or, you know, a pitcher of sangria.
Disney Springs has other venues in the mix, as well, including STK Orlando and Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill. Bernal notes that visiting Jaleo, or its neighbors, offers guests something that other restaurants don’t.
“There’s so much built-in entertainment!” he says. “Once you leave, you’re not going to just go back to your car. You’re going to go for a walk; you’re going to see all the other restaurants, the beautiful shops and you’re going to be entertained. And it’s all family-oriented.”
Jaleo’s date night-driven Flamenco Fridays may have you leaving the wee ones at home, though.
“The dancers are here from 7-10 p.m. and they move around the restaurant, so no matter where you sit, you will get to see them. And it’s beautiful.”
Despite being torn regarding other courses on Jaleo’s prix-fixe offerings, Bernal is unapologetically decisive come dessert, urging guests, especially those who’ve never tried it, to order the flan.
The traditional Spanish custard is served with a foam crafted of Catalan cream and oranges.
“This recipe has been with us for more than 30 years,” he says. It’s even a family favorite.
“My mom, when she visits, it’s the first thing she asks for when she gets off the plane.”
Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining returns on Aug. 18 and runs through Oct. 1.
Want to reach out? Find me on Twitter, TikTok or Instagram @amydroo or on the OSFoodie Instagram account @orlando.foodie. Email: [email protected]. Join the conversation at the Orlando Sentinel’s Facebook food group, Let’s Eat, Orlando.
