A more reasonably priced place in WDW is Artists' Point in the Wilderness Lodge. I've had several very good meals there. Great atmosphere if you like the National Park lodge feel.

Victoria and Albert's is also my choice. I have eaten at this establishment 5 times and always found it exceptional.

I'll second "the mason jar" as its referred to by regulars. Emerils, Wolfgangs, et. all are fine if you want to eat with tourists, but if you want a true dining experience, head east on I-4. Another suggestion that isn't much for atmosphere, but great food for a great price, is Charley's Steakhouse (the original) on Orange Blossom Trail down by the Dollhouse.

If I was in town with a bunch of guys for work, I'd venture out to Charley's. With a nice lady, Maison Jardin.

I found Maison Jardin to be acceptable but overpriced and stuffy. Wolfgang Puck's does attract a tourist crowd (how can it not, being at Disney), but sophisticated locals make up the majority of their clientele.

And how can a local, in good conscience, send a visitor to the OBT anywhere near the Dollhouse?! ;)

We also really liked Emeril's at Universal.

We went for lunch since we couldn't get a dinner reservation

Restaurants Near Airport
 

Any recommendations for restaurants near MCO? Thanks!

My top picks for Orlando and area are the California Grill at Disney's Contemporary Resort and Seasons 52 on Sand Lake Road.

The California Grill has become a must do on trips to Orlando for the last few years. Great food and the best by the glass wine selection I've found anywhere!

I've only been to Seasons 52 once since its a relatively new restaurant and hasn't been convenient for the times when my trip has been exclusively to Walt Disney World. But the food was innovative and fantastic. I'll definitely be back there next time I get the opportunity.

The restaurant at the Hyatt MCO is good as is the Marriott MCO. Off airport, not too much. If you give a distance from MCO or a direction, might be able to help. There is a good one called Aubergine Bistro which is off 436 in Winter Park. Very good food, not stuffy or overpriced. Would take about 15-25 min by car. La Contina on Hwy. 50 near 436 has good steaks.