Skip the Hotel Bar
You finished a long day at the Orange County Convention Center. Your badge is still around your neck, and someone in your group suggests getting drinks. The easy move is the hotel bar. You already know what that looks like: a small menu, overpriced well drinks, and a TV in the corner playing a game nobody is watching. You can do better.
Vincenzo Cucina Italiana is located at Vue at 360 on International Drive, near the Orange County Convention Center. The full bar opens at 5 PM every evening, which lines up perfectly with the end of most conference sessions. Walk in, take a seat at the bar or grab a table, and start the evening with something made by someone who actually cares about what goes in the glass.
After-Conference Happy Hour
Vincenzo offers some of the most welcoming drink specials on International Drive, and they are timed perfectly for convention guests looking to unwind after a full day of sessions.
- ✦ Monday — All-Night Happy Hour from 5 PM to close
- ✦ Tuesday — Martini Tuesday with specially priced craft martinis
- ✦ Wednesday — Wine Down Wednesday with half off wines by the glass
- ✦ Thursday & Friday — Happy hour 5 to 7 PM
- ✦ Every Night — Full bar with craft cocktails, Italian wines, premium spirits
The Cocktail Menu
The bar at Vincenzo serves craft martinis including the classic Dry Martini, Dirty Martini, Espresso Martini, and house specialties. Italian cocktails like the Negroni and Aperol Spritz are menu staples. Classic American cocktails including the Old Fashioned and Manhattan are built with premium spirits and proper technique. The Italian wine list features bottles and glasses from Tuscany, Piedmont, Sicily, and beyond, with new selections rotating throughout the year.
Drinks and Dinner, All in One Place
The real advantage of choosing Vincenzo over the hotel bar is that you can turn drinks into dinner without moving. The full menu is available at the bar and in the dining room. Start with cocktails and appetizers, then order lobster ravioli, chicken Marsala, a USDA Prime steak, or fresh seafood. Handmade pasta, scratch sauces, ocean-fresh fish. This is not convention food. This is an award-winning Italian restaurant with 4,000+ reviews, and it happens to be near the OCCC.
Complimentary valet parking is included every evening, which matters when you are navigating International Drive traffic during convention season. Pull up, hand the keys over, and walk into a craft cocktail.
Menu Highlights
- ✦ Lobster Ravioli — fresh lobster filling, light cream
- ✦ Short Rib Pappardelle — slow-braised short rib, wide handmade pasta
- ✦ Gnocchi — handmade potato pasta, creamy sauce
- ✦ Chicken Marsala — pan-seared chicken, Marsala wine, mushrooms
- ✦ Filet Mignon — USDA Prime, center cut
- ✦ Chilean Sea Bass — pan-seared, seasonal preparation
- ✦ Burrata, Bruschetta, Carpaccio, Calamari Fritti
- ✦ Tiramisu, Cannoli, Gelato — all made in-house
What Convention Guests Say
"We were in town for a conference and this was the best dinner of the trip. The atmosphere, the cocktails, and the food were all exceptional. Way better than the hotel restaurant."
"Food was flavorful, was hot and exactly as we ordered it. Service was excellent, too. First time there, very enjoyable experience. We'll be back."
"Great hidden gem in Orlando with homemade pastas, great service and wonderful wine and cocktail selection."
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I get drinks near the Orlando Convention Center?
Vincenzo Cucina Italiana at 8255 International Drive is near the Orange County Convention Center. Full bar with craft cocktails, martinis, and Italian wines, open 5 to 10 PM.
Is there a happy hour near the OCCC?
Yes. Monday is all-night happy hour. Tuesday is Martini Tuesday. Wednesday is Wine Down Wednesday with half off wines by the glass. Thursday and Friday happy hour runs 5 to 7 PM.
How far is Vincenzo from the Orange County Convention Center?
Vincenzo is on International Drive near the OCCC. Easy drive or rideshare from any convention center entrance.
Can I bring a group from a conference?
Yes. The bar area is great for casual groups. The Amalfi Room accommodates 15 to 50 guests for private events. Call (407) 745-4030.
Does Vincenzo have a bar area for after-conference drinks?
Yes. Full bar with craft cocktails, martinis, and the complete food menu. Great for post-conference networking or unwinding after sessions.
What cocktails does Vincenzo serve?
Craft martinis, Negroni, Old Fashioned, Espresso Martini, Aperol Spritz, and seasonal specialties. Italian wine list from Tuscany, Piedmont, and Sicily.
Does Vincenzo offer valet parking?
Yes. Complimentary valet parking every evening at Vue at 360.
What are Vincenzo's hours?
Open 7 days a week, 5 PM to 10 PM.
Is Vincenzo affiliated with the convention center?
No. Vincenzo is an independent, family-owned Italian restaurant near the Orange County Convention Center. There is no affiliation with OCCC or any convention organizers.
Can I have dinner and drinks at the same place?
Yes. Vincenzo serves the full Italian dinner menu alongside craft cocktails and Italian wine every evening.