Dave and Buster's opens in Orlando

Considering how many restaurants and attractions there are on Orlando's International Drive, the only thing surprising about Dave and Buster's debut on I-Drive on July 18 is how long it took this massive arcade-eatery franchise to finally open up a location in the heart of Orlando's tourism district.

Located across the street from the Pointe Orlando shopping, dining and entertainment center, and just a short walk from the Orange County Convention Center, Dave and Buster's is part restaurant/bar and part high end arcade, with plenty of flashing lights, cascading tokens, crowds of gamers, and streams of tickets stuffed into oversized D&B paper cups. Be prepared for large crowds during these opening weeks; the wait for a table in the restaurant might be long, but there are plenty of video games to accommodate visitors.

The restaurant side of Dave & Buster's is best known for hearty American fare, from sandwiches to salads and a surprisingly good macaroni and cheese. Be advised that Dave and Buster's is quite crowded during these opening weeks, but for those who want to beat the Orlando heat this summer, there is plenty of activity, air conditioned comfort and late night fun (with evening hours as late as 2:00 a.m.) at I-Drive's newest attraction, Dave and Busters.