For diners and event planners seeking a refined Italian experience in Orlando, Christinis has been a city landmark since 1984. This editorial guide explains how our longtime traditions, award-winning wine program, and event services come together to create memorable dinners, private gatherings, and catered group experiences — and what practical considerations to keep in mind when planning.
A legacy of fine Italian dining and recognized excellence
Our restaurant’s reputation is built on a chef-driven menu, signature dishes and sustained recognition from the restaurant industry. Over the years we’ve earned honors that reflect both culinary quality and wine program excellence, including induction into the Fine Dining Hall of Fame, the Ivy Award, recognition from Zagat, and the Best Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator Magazine. That acclaim complements our longstanding single-location legacy and the owner-driven recipes created by Chris Christini, which feature highlights such as our famous veal chop, handmade pasta, and olives and olive oil sourced from family farms in Europe.
Private dining, event hosting and group services
We offer private dining and event hosting in several formats: intimate private rooms, semi-private areas for smaller groups, and full buyouts when an entire venue is desired. The Ivy Room is one of the named private spaces available for events, and we routinely host group and convention dining that serves clients visiting Orlando’s major destinations, including nearby Universal Studios, Disney Springs and the Convention Center.
Event types and service features
- Private dinners and celebrations in curated rooms with distinctive Italian décor and live music options.
- Corporate and convention dining, with logistics experience that can include organized transportation for large parties.
- Special-event and holiday menus designed to fit the tone of your gathering.
- Private wine-pairing events and sommelier-led tastings leveraging our extensive wine list.
Menus for events are guest-focused and chef-created; we design plated dinners, family-style selections, and customizable group menus to align with the tone of the event and guest preferences. Our sommelier works directly with hosts to craft wine pairings that highlight signature dishes while balancing budget and guest expectations.
Takeout, curbside pickup and gift options
In addition to sit-down dining, we provide takeout and curbside pickup for many menu favorites, making it convenient to enjoy our food from home or hotel. Gift cards are available in both e-card and physical formats for special occasions and corporate gifting. For groups that prefer off-site service, our catering and group menu services extend our signature recipes and professional service to external venues.
What to expect when planning an event
When you plan with us, expect a combination of fine-dining service touches and practical logistics tailored to group needs. Distinctive elements like Italian art on the walls, a strolling musician for select events, and a rose presented to each lady create a classic, hospitable atmosphere. Behind the scenes, our team coordinates menu details, beverage pairing, and room setup so that the dining experience stays true to the Christini culinary identity.
For groups and conventions, our services can scale to accommodate large parties and complex logistics. We have experience with transportation coordination and menu timing to suit multi-event itineraries tied to conventions or nearby attractions. This operational experience is part of what our long-standing single-location presence on Restaurant Row brings to planners who need reliability and local knowledge.
Practical takeaways for event planners and diners
- Our private and semi-private spaces suit celebrations, corporate dinners and convention groups; named spaces such as the Ivy Room provide a distinct setting for curated events.
- Our award-winning wine list and sommelier services are available to elevate private dinners and tasting events, offering guided pairings with owner-created dishes.
- Takeout and curbside pickup make it easy to enjoy signature items off-site, and catering/group menus extend our cuisine to outside venues.
- Expect classic service touches and an emphasis on chef-crafted recipes and imported ingredients that define the dining experience.
- Our established reputation is reflected in a strong review profile and multiple industry awards, underscoring the quality you can expect when choosing us for a special meal or event.
Conclusion
Whether you’re planning an intimate anniversary dinner, a sommelier-led tasting, a corporate reception for visiting delegates, or simply ordering a refined meal to-go, our combination of chef-created dishes, wine expertise and event experience delivers a distinctive Italian dining experience in Orlando. Our team is ready to help design the right menu, setting and service elements to match your occasion.
To explore private dining layouts, tailored menus, or group dining options, reach out to our events team to discuss dates, preferences and how we can make your next gathering distinctly memorable.
