The Experience
Romano’s Macaroni Grill is a sit-down Italian-American restaurant—the kind of place you go when you want a real plate of food and a breather from the gate area. Expect a casual, family-friendly vibe with a menu built around pastas, chicken dishes, salads, and a few comfort-food classics that feel especially welcome when you’ve been living on snacks and coffee.
Travelers tend to love it for two reasons: it’s predictable and filling. Portions are typically generous for an airport meal, and the menu is broad enough that picky eaters and hungry adults can both land on something. If you’re craving something hearty, the pasta dishes are the obvious move; if you want lighter, there are salads and grilled options that don’t feel like an afterthought.
Location & Access
- Exact location: Orlando International Airport (MCO), Terminal A.
- Landmarks: Terminal A dining area; follow Terminal A food-and-beverage signage once you’re in the main terminal.
- Security: Not confirmed from available airport data—double-check MCO’s dining directory or map for whether it’s pre- or post-security for your concourse.
- Seating & waits: As a sit-down spot, it generally has more seating than quick-service counters, but peak meal windows (late morning, lunch, and early evening) can bring a wait. Budget extra time if your departure lines up with lunch.
Menu Highlights
- Classic pasta plates: Go for a signature pasta (think creamy or tomato-based) when you want the most satisfying “real meal” before flying.
- Chicken entrées: A solid choice if you want protein-forward and less heavy than a big bowl of pasta.
- Salads & lighter fare: Useful when you want something fresher that still feels substantial.
Prices: Exact airport pricing isn’t listed in the available data; in airports, expect a higher-than-street check for entrées and drinks. If you’re cost-sensitive, this is more “meal stop” than “quick cheap bite.”
- Vegetarian: Usually doable with pasta, salads, and sides.
- Vegan: Limited—ask about sauces and dairy/egg ingredients.
- Gluten-free: Not confirmed; ask staff about gluten-aware options.
- Halal: Not indicated.
Practical Info
- Mobile ordering: Not confirmed.
- Reservations: Not typical for airport dining; walk-ins are the norm.
- Best times to avoid crowds: Aim for early lunch (before noon) or mid-afternoon between rushes.
- Power outlets: Not guaranteed—some airport restaurant seating has access, some doesn’t. If you need to charge, choose a seat strategically and bring a backup battery.
Quick Verdict
- Best for: Families who need a calm reset, business travelers who want a seated meal, and anyone craving comforting Italian instead of another grab-and-go snack.
- Skip if: You’re on a tight connection, you want the cheapest option, or you need clearly labeled special-diet menus without asking questions.
Location
Terminal A