Shop Overview
Desano Pizzeria at Orlando International Airport (MCO) is a convenient dining stop for travelers craving a hot, made-to-order pizza before boarding. The concept is centered on classic Italian pizzeria fare—think Neapolitan-style pies with simple toppings—served quickly enough for airport pacing, but with a more “real meal” feel than typical grab-and-go counters.
Expect a streamlined airport menu focused on crowd-pleasers rather than deep regional experimentation. The experience is usually: order at the counter, get a buzzer or pickup call, and head out with a box that travels well to the gate. It’s particularly popular with families and groups because pizza is easy to share and reliable for picky eaters.
What to Buy
- Classic Margherita: The safest best-seller—tomato, mozzarella, basil—balanced flavor that holds up well even if you eat it at the gate.
- Pepperoni or “works” style pizzas: Hearty options if you’re trying to avoid buying another snack mid-flight.
- Slice or personal-size options (when offered): Ideal if your connection is tight and you need food fast.
- Side salad or simple Italian sides: A good add-on if you want something lighter alongside pizza.
MCO is not a duty-free dining environment, so there are no duty-free savings here. Pricing typically runs higher than off-airport pizzerias (standard airport premium), but the value comes from speed, portion size, and convenience—especially compared with smaller snack purchases that add up.
Location & Hours
Location: Orlando International Airport (MCO), Orlando, United States. Desano Pizzeria is a post-security dining option in the departures area (most MCO dining is after security). Because MCO’s terminals and gate areas are spread out, confirm the exact concourse/gate proximity on the official MCO interactive map before you clear security or start walking to your gate.
Directions tip: If you’re in a different concourse, don’t underestimate walking time—plan for 10–20 minutes depending on where you start, plus time to queue.
Hours: Airport restaurant hours often follow flight schedules and can change seasonally. If hours aren’t posted at the entrance, assume peak coverage in the morning and early evening rush. The busiest periods are typically 7–10am and 4–7pm; quieter windows are often midday (11am–2pm) and later evenings after the last major departure banks.
Shopping Tips
- Time your order: If you want hot pizza but don’t want to rush, order right after clearing security—then eat at a nearby seating area or take it to your gate.
- Takeout-friendly: Pizza boxes travel well, but ask for extra napkins and consider requesting slices to be cut smaller if you’re sharing on the go.
- Reserve/collect: Most airport pizzerias don’t offer true “reserve & collect,” but some accept mobile ordering through airport/third-party platforms depending on the day—check signage or the ordering counter.
- Returns/refunds: Food purchases are generally final. If there’s an issue (wrong topping, undercooked, etc.), flag it immediately before leaving the counter area.
- Payment & currency: Expect to pay by credit/debit cards and mobile wallet; USD is standard. Keep receipts if you’re expensing travel meals.
Category
dining