Published: February 24, 2026
By: Susan Rosser
I’ve spent plenty of time at some of Orlando’s finer resorts. My husband’s high school friends used to gather annually for long, indulgent weekend getaways at the Waldorf or the Ritz, taking advantage of summertime rates and the general luxury that comes with being temporarily untethered from real life. We had plenty of amusing weekends, so I thought I was somewhat of an expert on the bougie Orlando scene.
Then I stayed at the Conrad Orlando — and I was completely dumbfounded by how much I enjoyed it.
Yes, the Conrad is Hilton’s high-end luxury brand, but this particular property goes well beyond the usual luxury checklist. It’s not just polished or pretty (and expensive) in the way you expect. It’s joyful. Thoughtful. Almost disarming in how much it manages to surprise you. The first thing anyone will remember about the resort is the lagoon, which, technically, is a pool. A pool so vast and gleaming that you can kayak and paddleboard across it. It’s bonkers, truly, but in the best possible way. I’m a full-grown adult and found myself positively giddy splashing around in the water. (Of course, the frozen tropical drink delivered to me in my cabana may have contributed to said giddiness.)
The Conrad is located within the sprawling Evermore Resort, but despite sharing this massive, thoughtfully designed property, it feels like its own private escape. Conrad guests have access to a dedicated pool reserved exclusively for hotel guests, which creates a noticeably calmer, more serene atmosphere. One afternoon, we ordered lunch poolside and shared a juicy smash burger and a fresh poke bowl — both excellent, and both exactly what you want to eat when your day consists of swimming, sun, and very little else.
There are additional casual dining options scattered throughout Evermore, including a food-hall-style building overlooking the lagoon with burgers, wraps, pizza, and other crowd-pleasers. It’s an easy walk, and the setting is lively and fun. One practical note: you can’t charge Evermore purchases to your Conrad room, so bring your card.
We visited in November and lucked into one of those perfect Florida afternoons — warm but not sticky, sunny but comfortable. We spent the day lounging in a cabana by the pool. At around $400 for the day, the cabana is a splurge, but not a requirement. The pool area itself is beautifully managed, with attentive staff, plentiful towels, and a plethora of shady spots for those who prefer their sun in moderation.
Breakfast at the Conrad quickly became another highlight of our stay. I’m picky about hotel coffee — nothing is more disappointing than a beautiful property that serves weak, forgettable brew — but the Conrad passed the test with flying colors. The coffee was rich, strong, and plentiful. One morning I ordered eggs Benedict on brioche with mortadella; another day, smoked salmon on a toasted bagel. Both were exactly what a leisurely resort breakfast should be: satisfying, well-executed, and unrushed all with a waitstaff who completely understood my caffeine addiction.
That evening, we had dinner at Sophia’s, the property’s Italian restaurant. I’ll admit I arrived with modest expectations. I love to cook and like to think I do a decent job with Italian food at home, which can make restaurant versions a tough sell. But our waitress — coincidentally named Sophia — quickly won us over. She guided us through the menu with genuine enthusiasm, pointing out her favorite dishes and suggesting a few appetizers to start. When a manager stopped by and independently recommended the same starters, we took it as a sign from the menu gods. We began with arancini — classic Italian fried rice balls filled with cheese — served over a veal ragù that tasted vaguely reminiscent of my mother’s brisket, which is probably the highest compliment I can bestow. The lamb ribs were sweet, sticky, and savory, with a hint of warm spice. Not exactly traditional, perhaps, but utterly delicious.
Both Sophia and the manager raved about the sous vide Wagyu beef cheek entrée, and they weren’t exaggerating. It had that deep, rich flavor that comes from beef fat — something we all pretend not to love quite as much as we do — with a melt-in-your-mouth texture that fans of this cut will appreciate. I opted instead for the trottoli with pork and prosciutto ragù, broccoli rabe, and aged Parmesan. Every bite was a flavor bomb.
As wonderful as the setting and the food were, what truly sets the Conrad Orlando apart is the staff. Without exception — from housekeeping to waitstaff to managers — everyone was warm, friendly, and genuinely helpful. They didn’t just ask how our stay was going; they seemed to really care about the answer. These people put the welcome in hospitality. Somewhere, Conrad Hilton is surely proud of his namesake brand.
Case in point: on our first night, my husband realized he had left his phone somewhere in this vast resort. I happened to be in the lobby a short while later when I heard my name being called from across the vast hall. “Mrs. Rosser!” I turned to see our bartender — named Fonzi, and no, you truly can’t make that up — running through the lobby waving my husband’s phone. Crisis averted, and trust firmly established.
Back in our room, the thoughtful touches continued. The lighting system offered preset moods — reading, nightlight, wake, work, relax — making it effortless to settle in for the night. During turn-down service, slippers were placed neatly beside the bed on a small rug, soft music played in the background, and all three million of our charging cords were carefully coiled and organized. It’s a level of attention to detail that doesn’t just impress; it makes you feel genuinely cared for. The Conrad Orlando opened in January 2024, but it’s already setting a new bar for luxury in Central Florida. Between the larger-than-life Evermore lagoon, the serene guest-only pool, the standout dining, and the consistently gracious service, it’s the kind of place that makes you forget you’re just a stone’s throw from Disney — and reminds you what true hospitality is supposed to feel like.
For more about Conrad Orlando, click here
Dining at The Conrad Orlando
Sophia’s Trattoria
Classic Italian, elevated everyday.
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a bright, scenic setting overlooking Evermore Bay. Traditional pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and seasonal fare make this a standout meal on property. Breakfast is especially memorable — strong coffee and generous portions start the day right.
Ceiba Rooftop
Mexican-inspired dining with a view.
Sophisticated regional Mexican dishes and elevated cocktails draw an upscale crowd at sunset and into the evening.
Papaya Club
Polynesian-inspired beach-side spot.
Lush fruits, exotic spices, and rum-forward drinks accompany a vibrant, contemporary menu steps from the lagoon.
Apéro
Mediterranean-Riviera cocktail lounge.
Sip spritzes and Italian wines alongside light fare in a relaxed lobby bar atmosphere, perfect for pre-dinner drinks or an easy afternoon break.
Little Spoon Café & Market
for quick bites.
A European-style café serving pastries, sandwiches, snacks, gelato, and coffee — ideal for breakfast on the go or a casual afternoon treat.
In-Room Dining Dining delivered to your suite.
From leisurely breakfasts to late-night cravings, Conrad’s in-room dining menu covers favorites and comfort food without leaving your room.
Evermore Resort options
Conrad guests can also explore additional restaurants, casual eateries, and bars across the Evermore property — from burgers and pizza to waterfront lounges — though charges at these venues typically cannot be billed to your room. (evermoreresort.com)
GOOD TO KNOW
Cabanas
Approximately $400 per day; a lovely indulgence but not essential.
Coffee Lovers
You’re in good hands here.
Best For
Couples, families, and anyone seeking luxury with a sense of play.
