While many people go to Walt Disney World for the attractions, the real reason we go is for the food! With so many amazing places to eat, it’s almost impossible to choose. That’s why we’ve come up with the definitive rankings of the Best Restaurants at Disney World!
In our decades of visiting Disney World, we’ve tried all of the restaurants, most of them multiple times, giving us a decent amount of experience to share our recommendations with you.
In this post, we give you a list of the best places to eat at Disney World, including what to order at each restaurant. While there are too many places to eat to mention each one, our list has the 43 best Disney World restaurants, which should be more than enough to cover multiple trips.
While you can just wander through Disney World without any set plans on where to eat, most of the best restaurants book up quickly, so it’s highly recommended to plan ahead of time.
We’ll share with you the best restaurants for adults, the best buffets, and which character meals you must try. We’ll also show you the absolute worst restaurants at Disney World that you definitely should avoid.
We’ve included restaurants from all 4 theme parks are in our rankings, as well as at Disney Springs, and the Disney World Resort hotels. So no matter where you are going to be spending your time, you’ll be covered.
The fun part about going to Disney World is this list will keep evolving. This is the current rankings in 2024, but as more restaurants open every year, we will update the list with any newcomers. At least you will have more places to try on each returning trip!
Our list is very subjective and depends on dining preference and taste from person to person. We definitely want to hear about your list of the top Disney World restaurants in the comments section below and where your favorite places are.
Also, don’t forget to sign up for our FREE Weekly E-Mail Newsletter. There we bring you the latest updates to Disney food as well as vacation planning tips. You can sign up here: Join our E-Mail Newsletter!
Table of Contents
Disney World Restaurants Overview
Before we look at the rankings for the best restaurants at Disney World, here is some basic info you need to know before making your choices.
Which Disney World Park has the Best Restaurants?
While there are plenty of restaurants to choose from in all 4 Walt Disney World theme parks, some of them stand up above the rest for dining options, especially table service restaurants.
Overall, EPCOT is the theme park with the best restaurants at Walt Disney World. This should come as no shock since World Showcase is practically dedicated to dining and has a food festival running in almost every month of the year.
EPCOT has the most restaurants of any theme park, the most diversity among them, and also the best quality restaurants. The park is a foodie’s dream come true.
The worst theme park at Disney World for table service restaurants is probably the Animal Kingdom, just because even though they have two amazing restaurants (Tiffins and Yak & Yeti), they don’t have a lot of choices.
Our Restaurant Ranking Factors
When we originally thought about writing this article it sounded like a lot of fun, but we soon realized it was much harder than we thought to rank the best restaurants in Disney World. There are so many amazing places to eat and to narrow them down took a big effort.
Of course, with hundreds of restaurants to choose from, some of them are excellent, some good, and others just plain awful. Overall though, dining at Disney World is a great experience and it gives you a chance to try all sorts of food you otherwise wouldn’t try back home.
We encourage you to branch out and try new cuisines outside the standard “American fare” traditionally found at theme parks. That’s why we wanted to give you a definitive ranking so you know which restaurants are worth trying and which to skip.
We didn’t use some scientific method or any fancy spreadsheets or charts. We used our gut (quite literally this time), in our hundreds of visits to Disney World throughout the years.
Some of the ranking factors we considered are:
- Food Quality
- Price to Quality Ratio
- Portion Sizes
- Restaurant Theming and Ambiance
- Extra Disney Magic (special experiences, etc)
Our rankings are for sit-down or table service restaurants only as we have another list of the best counter service restaurants at Disney World. Some of them are fancy restaurants you go to for a romantic dinner, while others are very casual to take the whole family.
Best Restaurants at Walt Disney World Ranked
Besides the name of the restaurant and location, we’ve also included the approximate price, type of food, if it’s kid-friendly and what the best food items are at each one. This should give you a good base in order to make a decision.
Obviously, this list is too long to visit all these restaurants in one visit to Disney World, however, over multiple visits you can try the majority of them. We highly recommend trying all of the ones in the Top 10 at least once as they are dining experiences you will never forget.
Without further ado, here are the top 43 best restaurants at Disney World:
43. Jungle Navigation Co., Ltd. Skipper Canteen (Magic Kingdom)
- Cost: $$
- Type of Food: Asian, African, Latin
Fans of the nearby Jungle Cruise attraction will want to make Skipper Canteen their choice for dining in the Magic Kingdom. This is far from your traditional theme park fare and many of the menu choices are exotic and more adventurous than usual.
The food has a mix of influences from around the globe including Asia, African, and South American. However, the Jungle Navigation Co. Skipper Canteen is much more than just food and it’s more about the whole dining experience. The servers are funny like the Jungle Cruise captains and the theming of the building is incredible with tons of cool artifacts.
There is even a room dedicated to the secretive S.E.A. (Society of Explorers and Adventurers!
What to Get: Orinoco Ida’s Cachapas are a wonderful appetizer to start your meal and the Noodle Bowl is our favorite entree.
Is it Kid-Friendly?: Yes. The Jungle Cruise theme is popular with children and they will like to look at all the artifacts on the walls, including the giant butterflies.
42. Sci-Fi Dine-In (Hollywood Studios)
- Cost: $$
- Type of Food: American
If you have never been to a drive-in movie theater for dinner and a film, now is your chance. This is such an awesome throw-back restaurant that makes you feel like you are in the 1950s all over again. We love the old science fiction movies playing on the big screen and eating in our car has never been more fun.
The prices are not cheap for burgers and diner food, but you are paying for the atmosphere here. At least the portions are pretty big and you won’t leave hungry.
What to Get: Any of the burgers here are excellent, ask for the specialty ones depending on the season. Order that burger with a shake too, they are some of the best! Save room for dessert and try the Red Planet, which is a warm chocolate cheesecake!
Is it Kid-Friendly?: Yes. This is one of the coolest places for kids to dine. They will love eating at car tables and the old movies and cartoons on the big screen are great to watch.
41. Cinderella’s Royal Table (Magic Kingdom)
- Cost: $$$$
- Type of Food: American, Themed-dining
Eating at Cinderella’s Royal Table is a dream come true for many Disney fans, young and old alike. I mean, when else can you eat in a castle? It’s also a classic spot to meet the Disney princesses and makes a nice alternative to waiting in line to meet them all.
It’s also one of the best restaurants at Disney World for a special occasion. It’s special for my family since my sister and her husband got engaged here, with a specially engraved glass slipper and everything!
Of course, for a dining experience like this, it’s not cheap. Cinderella’s Royal Table serves a 3-course prix fixe meal and you get your choice of appetizer, entree and desserts included. We wouldn’t put it on the list every vacation, but you have to do it at least once.
What to Get: The Roasted Lamb Chops absolutely divine and the Filet Mignon is one of the best values for your money on the menu. For dessert, go with the trio for the best all-around experience.
Is it Kid-Friendly?: Yes. Kids love Cinderella’s Royal Table, especially to see the princesses. Tell them you are eating in the castle and they’ll be on board for sure.
40. Be Our Guest (Magic Kingdom)
- Cost: $$ (Lunch), $$$$ (Dinner)
- Type of Food: American, French
Be Our Guest is another prix fixe dining experience at the Magic Kingdom, similar to Cinderella’s Royal Table, but located in The Beast’s castle instead. You get a choice of appetizer, entree, and dessert for the same price.
Both restaurants are similar, but honestly, we like the theming of Be Our Guest every so slightly more than Cinderella’s Royal Table since we are big Beauty and the Beast fans. You can explore the restaurant’s 3 dining rooms, including the creepy West Wing complete with the enchanted rose and a scary lightning effect.
Don’t forget to be on the lookout for The Beast as he roams from time to time and you can get your picture with him once you are done eating.
What to Get: The filet is good and gives you the best bang for your buck. We also like the pork chop for an entree. Of course, no trip to Be Our Guest is complete without trying The Grey Stuff. Trust us, it’s delicious!
Is it Kid-Friendly?: Yes. Your kids will love Be Our Guest as it looks just like you stepped into the film and are eating there at The Beast’s Castle.
39. Kona Cafe (Polynesian Resort)
- Cost: $$
- Type of Food: American, Seafood
Located at Disney’s Polynesian Resort, the Kona Cafe is an excellent choice if you are staying on the monorail loop and want a change of scenery. Even with the new refurbishment, the atmosphere in the restaurant is nothing special, but the food is better than average.
It has a wide variety of choices including seafood, burgers, Dashi bowls, and many dishes with an Asian influence. The staff is friendly and you can walk the gorgeous grounds of the Polynesian Resort after dinner and watch the fireworks from the beach.
What to Get: At breakfast, you must try the Tonga Toast, and the pancakes are spectacular too. At dinner, the sushi is surprisingly good and the Kona-braised Short Ribs are very succulent and moist.
Is it Kid-Friendly?: Yes. This is a standard family-friendly WDW restaurant. Nothing fancy and a relaxed atmosphere.
38. Liberty Tree Tavern (Magic Kingdom)
- Cost: $$$
- Type of Food: American
The Liberty Tree Tavern is our favorite table service restaurant at the Magic Kingdom and exceeds our expectations time and time again. Located in Liberty Square, the atmosphere has a Revolutionary-age theme and even the waiters and waitresses are dressed to play the part. It’s like stepping back into 1776 all over again.
The food is just as good as the theming and the menu consists of all-you-can eat Traditional American ‘Thanksgiving Feast.’ Come here when you are hungry as the portion sizes are massive.
What to Get: Almost everything is great here but we particularly like the mashed potatoes and the herbed stuffing. And DON’T skip dessert. The Ooey Gooey Toffee Cake will change your life!
Is it Kid-Friendly?: Yes. They will have fun going through each room and looking at the revolutionary-age artifacts. Think of the Liberty Tree Tavern as a built-in history lesson for your kids, but in a fun way.
37. Chefs de France (EPCOT)
- Cost: $$-$$$
- Type of Food: French
Eating at Chefs de France is like stepping into a Parisian Bistro on a crowded street. We love to grab a window table here and watch the thousands of people walk by. Everything is authentic and the energy is bustling.
We love the menu here and there are many choices that are delicious. There are some more adventurous choices like Escargot, but most items are definitely welcome to an American palate.
What to Get: The French Onion Soup is piled high with melted cheese and is a must-get appetizer. The short ribs or the beef tenderloin are our two favorite entrees, but the Ratatouille also gets many compliments. The French are known for their desserts, so don’t leave without a cream puff or creme brûlée.
Is it Kid-Friendly?: Yes. It’s definitely kid-friendly, but they don’t have the biggest Kid’s Menu and there is nothing particularly attractive for them.
36. Todd English’s bluezoo (Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel)
- Cost: $$$
- Type of Food: Asian, American, Seafood
This is one of the most underrated and forgotten restaurants in Disney World. Since it’s over at the Dolphin hotel it doesn’t get a lot of attention, which is a shame since the seafood here is oh so good!
The restaurant has a funky modern atmosphere with lots of blown glass and bright colors. The service here is excellent and the wait staff really knows the menu well. The seafood is extremely fresh, and there are also a lot of land options like steaks, chicken, and pasta dishes.
What to Get: Try the Crab Nachos for an appetizer and the Lobster Bucatini for an unforgettable dining experience.
Is it Kid-Friendly?: Maybe. Kids can dine here, but they probably won’t want to as it’s more of a fancy dining experience for adults.
35. La Hacienda de San Angel (EPCOT)
- Cost: $$$
- Type of Food: Mexican
Everyone likes the San Angel Inn at EPCOT, but while that’s good, we actually prefer La Hacienda de San Angel right across the promenade. The food is slightly better quality and we love the location right on the water. It’s a great spot to watch the fireworks show without having to wait for a spot outside.
You might be able to get a better Mexican meal back home for cheaper, but you can’t beat the atmosphere which is close to the top at EPCOT.
What to Get: We could eat loads of the queso fundido with melted cheese with chorizo, peppers, and onions, no questions asked. The osso buco a la Mexicana is something different or you could go with either taco meal or the carne asada if you are in the mood for something more familiar.
Is it Kid-Friendly?: Yes. If your kids like Mexican food they will enjoy La Hacienda, although San Angel Inn is a better choice if you are going with kids.
34. Rose & Crown (EPCOT)
- Cost: $$-$$$
- Type of Food: English, Pub
EPCOT has many great restaurants, and Rose & Crown is right up there on the list. This is an English pub that serves traditional fare like fish and chips and bangers and mash. The menu is not too expensive and the dishes are hearty and feel home-cooked.
Even though the food is good, the location is even better. If the weather is nice, try to get a table out on the patio where you can witness an incredible sunset followed by a front-row seat to the fireworks show.
What to Get: You have to try the scotch egg, golden-fried and wrapped in sausage. The fish and chips are excellent (the same ones from the Yorkshire County Fish Shop), so are the bangers and mash and the burger is one of the best in Disney World.
Is it Kid-Friendly?: Yes. Kids will like the outdoor tables better, but the inside is quaint and has a hole-in-the-wall feel to it.
33. Paddlefish (Disney Springs)
- Cost: $$-$$$
- Type of Food: American, Seafood
The former home of Fulton’s Crab House and the Empress Lilly, Paddlefish completed renovated the famous paddleboat to a more modern, yet elegant decor. If you are looking for good seafood, this or The Boathouse are our two top picks at Disney Springs.
It’s an elegant restaurant, but not overly fancy and not stuffy at all. The menu is very diverse with lots of great seafood options, but also a variety of sandwiches, burgers, and meat. It is a tad pricy but that is the norm now at Disney Springs. We prefer The Boathouse over Paddlefish, but it’s still good enough to make our list and has a few very unique offerings you can’t get anywhere else in Disney World.
What to Get: The crab guacamole is my wife’s favorite and it’s full of crabmeat. Any of the seafood is good including the stuffed cod or the catfish. If you are looking for something from the land, the pimento cheeseburger is maybe the best burger in Disney World.
Is it Kid-Friendly?: Yes. Paddlefish is a good atmosphere for kids but can just as easily be a nice spot for date night. Bring the kids up to the top deck of the boat for an incredible view of Disney Springs.
32. Beaches & Cream (Beach Club Resort)
- Cost: $$
- Type of Food: American, Diner
We like stepping back in time when we are at Walt Disney World, and Beaches & Cream does a great job of transporting you to a 50s-era diner. Recently remodeled and enlarged, the dining room is bright and has cute photos of all the Disney characters in a classic soda shop.
The food here is excellent and not expensive compared to most of the restaurants on this list. It’s probably one of the best value restaurants in Disney World. Mouth-watering burgers and sandwiches are on the menu as are ice cream sundaes and shakes.
What to Get: It’s so hard to choose when you like everything here. Beaches and Cream is famous for its burgers, some of the best in Disney World. The onion rings are a must-get to accompany your sandwich. Leave room for one of the world-famous ice cream sundaes like the “No Way Jose” or if you are brave enough, get the “The Kitchen Sink.” If you are of age, try one of the “Adult milkshakes.”
Is it Kid-Friendly?: Yes. Absolutely a must-do for kids. They will love basically everything on the menu.
31. Steakhouse 71 (Contemporary Resort)
- Cost: $$-$$$
- Type of Food: American, Steakhouse
Steakhouse 71 is one of the newest restaurants in Walt Disney World, but it sure did make an impression on us the first time we tried it. It takes over the space that used to be occupied by The Wave, but the replacement is miles ahead of its predecessor.
The overall atmosphere here is much brighter than before with lots of white with blue, green, and orange accents. What we really love however is the restaurant’s callback to the opening of Walt Disney World.
The entrance is covered in old photos of Walt Disney and other executives scouting the land, as well as the construction of the Magic Kingdom and nearby resorts. There are even Mary Blair-style murals on the back wall of the restaurant.
The food here is excellent and we were blown away by how good the quality is. We had one of the best burgers on property here, as well as amazing steak, even when it’s not the expensive cuts. The price-quality ratio is one of the best at Disney World which makes Steakhouse 71 a winner!
What to Get: If you are going at lunch, try the Stackhouse Burger which is piled high with pork belly and smothered in cheese! Any of the steaks are awesome, even the hanger steak melts in your mouth! For appetizers, try the Bacon & Eggs, a classic holdover from The Wave. For dessert, the Steakhouse 71 Chocolate Cake is the most impressive and a must for chocolate lovers!
Is It Kid-Friendly?: Yes. The decor is casual and not stuffy at all. The menu has a ton of things for kids including a filet which is delicious!
30. Via Napoli (EPCOT)
- Cost: $$
- Type of Food: Italian, Pizza
If you are in the mood for pizza at Walt Disney World, there is only one place to go, Via Napoli in the Italy pavilion at EPCOT. This is as close to authentic Italian pizza as you will get in Florida, which having lived in Italy for more than 9 years is hard to find in the states.
The mozzarella is flown in specially from Italy, and the water is from a source with a similar alkaline level as found in Naples.
The restaurant is a fun atmosphere and the wait staff is very friendly, again, flown in from Italy. The space is open and the overall experience is very fun.
What to Get: Pizza of course! There are some nice pasta dishes but come here for the pizza. If you are with a group, get the pizza a Mezzo Metro (half a meter). It’s big enough to feed a family of 4 and a relatively cheap meal for Disney World.
Is it Kid-Friendly?: Yes. You kids will love the pizza at Via Napoli and probably be one of their favorite restaurants of the trip. Take them over to the pizza ovens named for Italy’s most famous volcanos and watch the expert pizzaiolos as they perfect their craft.
29. Yak & Yeti (Animal Kingdom)
- Cost: $$
- Type of Food: Asian, Chinese, American, Seafood
Yak and Yeti is one of the most visually interesting restaurants on this list and features incredible pan-Asian food. It often goes overlooked by guests and is quite a hidden gem.
The atmosphere makes you feel like you are sitting in a Nepalese marketplace, with extreme attention to detail given by the Imagineers. The prices are modest, the portions are huge and the food quality is also very good. We suggest getting some of the shareable plates to save money and to try a lot of different things.
What to Get: Our favorite appetizer is the Ahi Tuna Nachos, easily sharable for 3-4 people. For entrees, any of the lo mien or bowls are great, and so are the Korean beef and the duck.
Is it Kid-Friendly?: Yes. There aren’t a lot of choices for table service meals at the Animal Kingdom, but if your kids like Asian food this will be their favorite.
28. Grand Floridian Cafe (Grand Floridian Resort)
- Cost: $$
- Type of Food: American
When you think of restaurants at Disney’s Grand Floridian, your mind immediately goes to fancy and expensive (don’t worry we have those coming up later in our rankings). However, the Grand Floridian Cafe is a much cheaper alternative, perhaps the best at its price point in all Walt Disney World.
The Victorian-style decor is not for everyone, but we find it delightfully charming. We also like the big open dining room with lots of space and huge windows to let in the light. It’s also not a very crowded restaurant and pretty easy to get reservations for.
You can get breakfast, lunch, or dinner, but our favorite menu is at dinnertime.
What to Get: This is another menu where we love almost everything and it’s hard to choose. The Buttermilk-fried Chicken is golden and crispy outside and juicy inside and one of the best at WDW. For a truly indulgent choice, get the Grand Floridian Cafe Signature Burger served on a buttery brioche bun.
Is it Kid-Friendly?: Yes. There is nothing special for kids at the restaurant, but they shouldn’t have a hard time finding something on the menu.
27. Cape May Cafe (Beach Club Resort)
- Cost: $$$
- Type of Food: American, Seafood, Buffet
Cape May Cafe is one of the best buffets in Disney World and a seafood-lovers dream come true. This place is always packed every night, and one of the hardest to get dining reservations. The buffet has a wide variety of choices and the atmosphere is relaxed, especially away from the buffet tables.
What to Get: Everyone comes for the all-you-can-eat seafood feast which includes shrimp, clams, mussels, salmon, and much, much more. You can also pay an additional fee for crab legs, whereas they used to be free. There is a nice carving station for land-lovers with two or three types of meat. The dessert choice is more than you would expect.
Is it Kid-Friendly?: Yes. There are plenty of options for kids even if they don’t like seafood such as a pizza station, chicken nuggets, etc.
26. ‘Ohana (Polynesian Resort)
- Cost: $$$
- Type of Food: Polynesian, American
If we were doing a list of the most popular Disney World restaurants, ‘Ohana might be number one. This place is always full and can be impossible to get a table for in busy times of the year.
The atmosphere is tropical and very pleasing. At breakfast, you get Lilo and Stitch plus some other Disney characters. At night for dinner, you get a sort of luau, with live music and games to involve the young and the young a heart. Be sure to check out the giant barbecue at the entrance where the magic happens.
What to Get: We like both rounds of food at dinner but are partial to the appetizers. We like the all-you-can-eat skewers of shrimp and steak, but we think the potstickers, wings, and noodles all steal the show. Order as much as you want because it’s all-you-can-eat. You have to try one of Disney World’s most famous desserts, the ‘Ohana Bread Pudding overflowing with a sweet caramel sauce.
Is it Kid-Friendly?: Yes. Ohana means family, and your kids will love this place, especially if you come for the character meal at breakfast.
25. Hollywood Brown Derby (Hollywood Studios)
- Cost: $$$
- Type of Food: American
The Hollywood Brown Derby at Disney’s Hollywood Studios is modeled after the real Brown Derby in Los Angeles and is synonymous with the Golden Age of the film industry. It was THE place to be seen and always filled with movie stars. Disney’s version doesn’t have movie stars, but it does have an incredible menu and is one of the best places for a sit-down meal in this park.
You can choose from sandwiches, salads, seafood, or steak, all of which are top-notch. We’ve never had a bad meal at the Hollywood Brown Derby and always leave satisfied. For being in a theme park, it’s one of the best restaurants you will find.
What to Get: Of course, no visit to the Brown Derby would be complete without the Famous Cobb Salad. For dessert, the Grapefruit Cake has been a staple here for years and is great if you like a tart flavor.
Is it Kid-Friendly?: Yes. The Kid’s Menu Kids has a nice selection so it won’t be hard to find something they like. They will also enjoy the hundreds of drawings of movie stars on the walls of the restaurant. Try to see how many of them they know.
24. 50’s Prime Time (Hollywood Studios)
- Cost: $$
- Type of Food: American
We’re staying at Hollywood Studios for our next restaurant, the 50’s Prime Time Cafe. This feels like walking into the living of your grandmother’s house that hasn’t been remodeled since the 1950s but in a cozy and good way. You can watch the old black and white TVs with reruns playing of “Leave it to Beaver” or “The Andy Griffith Show.”
The best part though is the interaction with the waiters and waitresses. In theme with the restaurant they give guests a hard time, tell you to wash your hands, and make you do a special dance in front of everyone if you don’t. They are truly hysterical and will entertain you throughout the whole meal.
The menu is made up of home-cooking comfort food like meatloaf and pot pies, all of which are very tasty. At this point in our rankings, it’s the least expensive restaurant and a value for the food quality and fun atmosphere.
What to Get: While we love all the home-cooking at 50’s Prime Time, our favorite dish is Aunt Liz’s Golden Fried Chicken, perhaps the best in Walt Disney World. Try the sampler for a little bit of everything. You also have to get the peanut butter and jelly shake, again at the top of the list in any theme park. The desserts are solid, we recommend Dad’s Favorite Chocolate-Peanut Butter Layered Cake À la Mode or Mom’s Brownie.
Is it Kid-Friendly?: Yes, absolutely. 50’s Prime Time Cafe is a hit with children and they will love the antics and attention paid to them by the wait staff. The whole menu is kid-friendly and they won’t have any trouble finding something.
23. Boma – Flavors of Africa (Animal Kingdom Lodge)
- Cost: $$-$$$
- Type of Food: African, Indian
Boma at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge is hands-down the best buffet at Walt Disney World. It’s available for Breakfast and Dinner and it does both of them exceptionally well.
I don’t know about you, but I get tired of the same old eggs, potatoes, and bacon you find at every Disney breakfast. That’s not the case at Boma. The majority of items on the buffet are unique to Boma, which means you get a completely different experience here.
Expect a wide variety of African-inspired food with many salads and roasted meats. Everything is fresh and the whole thing feels overwhelming at times. It’s a little out of the way, but worth it either before or after visiting Disney’s Animal Kingdom park. Be daring and you won’t regret it!
What to Get: You can’t go wrong with anything on the menu at Boma, it’s all amazing. Our favorites are the Coconut-Chicken-Curry Soup, Tunisian Couscous Salad, Pap and Chakalaka, Slow-roasted Pork Ribs, Spice-crusted Beef Sirloin, and Bobotie. Make sure to save room for the famous Zebra Domes for dessert, and if going to breakfast they serve Simba waffles instead of Mickey waffles.
Is it Kid-Friendly?: Yes. Some of the menu items may sound intimidating for kids, but there are plenty of simple things that aren’t too spicy they will like.
22. Hoop Dee Doo Revue (Fort Wilderness Resort)
- Cost: $$$
- Type of Food: American, Southern
The Hoop Dee Doo Revue is the complete opposite of most of the restaurants remaining in our rankings and is just a plain old hootin’ hollerin’ good time. It’s not a traditional restaurant, but a hilarious dinner show, and one of the quintessential Walt Disney World dining experiences.
The dinner show lasts 2 hours with skits from the actors coming in between each course. Some of the guests are even chosen to participate in the show. The food is served in metal buckets and baskets and it is also all-you-can-eat, so bring an appetite.
Get ready to stomp your feet and clap your hands at the most fun dinner you will have maybe ever.
What to Get: The food isn’t the best in Disney World, but it is a guilty pleasure of ours. The fried chicken and ribs are both good and come in never-ending buckets. We love the cornbread slathered in butter too. For dessert, the strawberry shortcake is legendary and comes with its own show!
Is it Kid-Friendly?: Yes. Kids absolutely love the Hoop Dee Doo Revue. They get to sing along, clap their hands, and participate in the antics.
21. Jaleo (Disney Springs)
- Cost: $$-$$$$
- Type of Food: Spanish, Seafood
Jaleo is one of the newest restaurants on our list, but definitely one of the best. It features the authentic Spanish cuisine of Chef Andrés with each dish showcased in a unique and exciting way. Traditional Spanish dishes like paella, Iberian ham, sangria along with Spanish wines and cheeses are on the menu.
The building is huge and is decorated with a vivid color scheme mixing wood with other decorative elements and is an overall fun atmosphere. The menu is one of the biggest in Disney Springs and appeals to diners who enjoy meat, fish, or vegetarian plates. Jaleo is a truly amazing dining experience, and one of the best-known secrets in Disney World.
What to Get: Trying some of the authentic Spanish cheese and cured meats is a must, especially the prestigious Iberian ham which is aged for 48 months. For a really special dinner, try one of the Chef’s Tasting menus, a culinary tour through Chef Andrés’ favorite dishes.
Is it Kid-Friendly?: Yes. The spaces are big and not at all stuffy. Kids will like the chicken fritters, fried potatoes, and grilled cheese.
20. Monsieur Paul (EPCOT)
- Cost: $$$-$$$$
- Type of Food: French
If you’ve already tried Chefs de France downstairs and would like a meal that takes French cuisine to the next level, Monsieur Paul is for you. This is fine dining done at a level seldom found in a theme park.
The restaurant space is done in the Art Nouveau design, although it feels a little empty and plain to us compared to some of its competitors. The wait staff is friendly and very attentive to your needs and don’t give you the impression of being in an overly-stuffy restaurant.
The menu is refined, and each plate has a gorgeous presentation. Of course, this is not a buffet, and each dish is aimed at quality and uniqueness over sheer quantity. It’s very expensive, but one of the best dining experiences and worth doing. It’s a prix fixe menu, which includes multiple courses of which you have a few different options.
What to Get: The crusty baguettes are even better than their cousins downstairs, and maybe are the best bread in Disney World. All of the different courses are great here, and they rotate fairly regularly.
The best part of the meal though might be the desserts (shocker). Of them all, La Sphère is our favorite and has a Milk Chocolate Sphere and Chocolate Almond Cake which is then covered in a warm chocolate and cognac sauce!
Is it Kid-Friendly?: Not really. Kids can eat at Monsieur Paul, but the cuisine will likely not appeal to them, nor will its very elegant atmosphere.
19. Wine Bar George (Disney Springs)
- Cost: $$-$$$
- Type of Food: American
Wine Bar George is another newer restaurant at Disney Springs and the best place to go for wine lovers. This is one of our favorite places to eat at Disney World and is perfect if you just want a drink or if you are looking for a multi-course meal.
One of the things we appreciate most about this place is the knowledgeable staff. They will tell you anything you want to know about any type of wine and are very helpful.
What to Get: You have to get a glass of wine here as they have some of the rarest wines you’ll find anywhere in Florida. The Big Board of charcuterie pairs nicely with wine and is good to share. The Burrata, Crispy Mac & Cheese Bites, and Saganaki on Fire (a Japanese cheese served in flames) are all favorites to start with. The family-style Skirt Steak with roasted potatoes and chimichurri is one of the best steaks in Disney World.
Is it Kid-Friendly?: Yes, but kids aren’t going to be interested in the atmosphere or anything. It’s not super fancy so no need to overdress. There aren’t tons of kid’s options on the menu, but they will love the crispy mac and cheese bites.
18. Morimoto Asia (Disney Springs)
- Cost: $$-$$$
- Type of Food: Asian, Chinese, Japanese, Thai
If you like Asian food, you are going to want to book a table for Morimoto Asia now. Another fantastic option at Disney Springs that serves Pan-Asian cuisine by Iron Chef Morimoto. The restaurant doesn’t have any particular theme, but the style is modern and we love the huge open dining room with multiple levels.
The menu is gigantic and you might need to take a nap in-between pages. There isn’t one culture that dominates the menu as it’s more of a best-of-Asia with Chinese, Japanese, Thai, Vietnamese, and other cuisines represented. It’s especially known for sushi, so order a roll or two before your main course.
Our only issue is the wait staff is never overly impressive and we haven’t been blown away by their knowledge of the menu or their attentiveness. It’s hard to say much bad about Morimoto Asia though, and it remains a must-eat Disney dining experience.
What to Get: The Morimoto spare ribs are legendary, a little sweet and they fall right off the bone. The Morimoto “Buri-Bop” is one of the coolest presentations of any dish and comes really fresh. And if you are feeling adventurous, the Morimoto Peking Duck which is house-roasted is great to split.
Is it Kid-Friendly?: Yes. The menu is kid-friendly and while it is a somewhat fancy restaurant, you still see plenty of families there dressed more casually.
17. Shula’s Steak House (Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel)
- Cost: $$$-$$$$
- Type of Food: American, Steakhouse
Shula’s Steak House is named after none other than legendary Miami Dolphins coach Don Shula and is located at the Dolphin Hotel (that was obvious wasn’t it). If you are a carnivore like us, then grab a fork and an extra large knife and follow me to some of the best pieces of meat you will find at Walt Disney World.
The atmosphere is what you’d expect from a traditional steakhouse. Lots of dark wood and low lighting. It feels like walking into an exclusive dining club. Football fans will enjoy the Dolphins memorabilia hanging on the walls, including their 1972 perfect season.
The food is great, with lots of classic steakhouse dishes. Despite the high prices, it’s not quite our favorite steak at Disney World, but it comes darn close.
What to Get: Steak of course. Filet Mignon, Cowboy Ribeye, Prime New York Strip, and the Black Angus Porterhouse are all excellent cuts of meat you can’t go wrong with, as is the Prime Rib. The French Onion soup rivals any you will find at Disney World and is a must-get.
Is it Kid-Friendly?: Sort of. Kids are welcome at Shula’s, but unless they are into steak, it will go unappreciated to them. It’s also an expensive restaurant but it’s up to you.
16. Tiffins (Animal Kingdom)
- Cost: $$$
- Type of Food: African, Asian, Latin
Tiffins is arguably the best theme park restaurant at Walt Disney World and it definitely serves some of its most exotic and interesting menu items.
The design of the restaurant was done by Disney Imagineers who used their experiences in far-away places such as South America, Asia, and Africa as inspiration. The building is divided into three separate dining rooms, each representing one of those places. It’s a treasure trove of artifacts, each with its own unique story to tell.
Some of the less adventurous eaters will get scared off at Tiffins, don’t be one of them. If your group only eats burgers and nuggets, you should pass. It’s one of the most diverse and inspired menus we’ve seen in a long time and a fantastic dining experience for any true foodie.
Stop by the Nomad Lounge before your meal and grab a drink in one of the best lounges in Disney World.
What to Get: Don’t expect bland theme park food here. The charred octopus is tender and the best we’ve ever had. The Tamarind-braised Short Rib is succulent and falls of the bone. The most memorable item on the menu though is the Whole-fried Sustainable Fish, just don’t look at it in its eyes.
Is it Kid-Friendly?: Yes. Children will love the wild decorations throughout the different dining rooms. The animal displays in the Grand Gallery will be especially appealing to them.
15. Narcoossee’s (Grand Floridian Resort)
- Cost: $$$-$$$$
- Type of Food: American, Seafood
Narcoossee’s is a signature dining restaurant at the Grand Floridian Resort and one of our favorite dining experiences at Disney World! It’s perfectly positioned on the edge of the Seven Seas Lagoon and with a view of the Magic Kingdom.
It’s a quiet place to eat and one of the more romantic spots in Disney World. Narcoossee’s is easily accessible if you are staying on the Monorail loop and makes for a great change of pace. Like the California Grill, Narcoossee’s is an excellent fireworks viewing spot and even has the music tied into the restaurant.
The food here isn’t cheap by any means, but the seafood is outstanding, perhaps the best in Disney World, and worth the price. It’s great for a special occasion, date night, or if you just want to treat yourself!
What to Get: Anything seafood here is amazing. The lobster bisque is one of the best on property as are the crab cakes. The Scallops are always incredible, but for some reason, we tend or get lobster when dining here! As good as the seafood is, the desserts might be even better. We love them all, but you haven’t lived until you’ve tried the famous Almond-crusted Cheesecake with cherry sauce!
Is it Kid-Friendly?: Yes. You don’t see many small children here but they are welcome. Most couples come here for a night away from the kids, but they will like the views of the water and the fireworks.
14. Flying Fish (Disney’s Boardwalk Inn)
- Cost: $$$
- Type of Food: Mediterranean, Seafood
As you might imagine, the Flying Fish restaurant is focused on seafood, arguably the best selection of it anywhere in Walt Disney World. The restaurant underwent a total refurbishment a few years ago and is even more sleek and contemporary than before with open ceilings and huge dangling light fixtures.
The fish is always fresh and each dish is done in unique and interesting ways. Some accompaniments might include Antebellum Grits, Potato Beurre Blanc, Leek Fondue, or Holland Pepper Coulis.
The menu isn’t only seafood however and includes just as many land options done in unique and interesting ways. With a great atmosphere and nice location on The Boardwalk, Flying Fish is THE place to go for seafood and is one of the top restaurants in Disney World.
What to Get: The lobster bisque is rich and creamy and the pork belly is one of the best at Walt Disney World and not to be skipped. The sea bass, red snapper, and scallops are all amazing entrees, and so is the NY Strip Steak if you are in the mood for meat. All the desserts are fantastic, and we really loved the Florida Sunset and the Cocoa Breach.
Is it Kid-Friendly?: Maybe. The Kid’s menu is versatile with many options for them to choose from. It is expensive though so you’ll have to gauge if it’s worth the price for you.
13. Space 220 (EPCOT)
- Cost: $$$-$$$$
- Type of Food: Modern American (Steak, Seafood, Pasta)
The hype around Space 220 was building for years, and when it opened it made a big splash on our list, catapulting almost into the Top 10 right out of the gate. This is perhaps the most unique dining experience in Walt Disney World, one that guests will remember for a long time.
Your journey begins as you board the space elevator which simulates traveling up to a space station 220 miles above the Earth. Obviously, you are only going up one floor, but it’s pretty well done and starts the show right.
The dining room is incredible, a gigantic half-circle room with huge windows looking out into space and the Earth down below. it even changes from day to night with the real-time outside.
We were expecting the food to disappoint, but instead, we loved almost everything we tried. There were a few stinkers on the menu, but overall we think the quality is right up there with many signature dining restaurants at Disney World.
If you are looking for the real EPCOT dining experience, you need to give Space 220 a try. The menu is expensive, but with the whole experience we think it’s worth it.
What to Get: Most of the appetizers are incredible, our favorites are the Blue Moon Cauliflower and the Big Bang Burrata, both vastly different but outstanding. If you go at lunch we recommend the Miso Salmon which is cooked perfectly or the Steak & Frites.
For dinner, you can’t beat the 8oz Filet Mignon which is again covered in that scrumptious cabernet butter. It’s one of the most tender pieces of meat I’ve had on property. The Slow Rotation Short Rib is a great alternative and comes with creamy cheddar grits. All the desserts are great, but we prefer the Carrot Cake, which is delicious and perfectly moist.
Is It Kid-Friendly?: Absolutely! I can’t think of a restaurant better-suited for children than Space 220. They will go nuts when they get launched up to the station on the space elevator, and their mouths will hit the floor when they see the view of Earth from space. The menu is very kid-friendly too, so an overall excellent choice.
12. Homecomin’ by Chef Art Smith (Disney Springs)
- Cost: $$-$$$
- Type of Food: American, Southern
To look at it there is nothing particularly “special” about Homecomin’, but once you experience it, it will quickly become one of your go-to restaurants in Walt Disney World. As the name would imply, the menu is just all-around great comfort food that feels like a home-cooked meal.
The location is nice, right across from Morimoto Asia, and well-positioned along a quiet stretch of the water. If it’s not too hot, get a table on the screened-in veranda for the best view. You can also come to Homecomin’ for their world-famous brunch which has an assortment of unforgettable items.
Overall, Homecomin’ is a great table service restaurant and we can’t think of many people who wouldn’t like it. Great food at moderate prices in a relaxed atmosphere and you have a winner in our book!
What to Get: You can point your finger at the menu and not make a bad choice. The deviled eggs, hush puppies, and fried green tomatoes are all great starters. For entrees, we love the shrimp and grits, but the real star at Homecomin’ is Art’s Famous Fried Chicken. It’s buttermilk-brined for 24 hours and hand’s down the best at Walt Disney World. If you are drinking adult beverages, try the moonshine sampler where you can mix and match flavors. For dessert, the Hummingbird Cake is a must-try!
Is it Kid-Friendly?: Yes. This menu of Southern home cooking will appeal to most kids. There isn’t any special theming at the restaurant, but they will like a table with a view of the water.
11. Sanaa (Animal Kingdom Lodge)
- Cost: $$
- Type of Food: African, Indian
From the moment Sanaa opened at the Kidani Village, it quickly became one of the most popular restaurants in Disney World, and it’s easy to see why. That’s saying something considering it’s perhaps the most inconvenient restaurant to get to on property.
Some people might have a bad idea of what the food tastes like when they hear African or Indian, immediately imagining food that is over-seasoned and way too spicy. While there are some spicy items on the menu, most of the food has just the right amount of flavor.
Most guests will find Sanaa to be absolutely delicious, a hidden gem of Disney dining. Great food and drinks plus the opportunity to see wild animals in their habitat definitely make it worth the trip it takes to get there!
What to Get: You MUST start your meal off with the famous naan bread service with all the dips. It’s legendary and can’t be missed. We also recommend getting the Potjie-inspired bowls, all of which can be mixed and matched. (Get the butter chicken and thank us later!)
Is it Kid-Friendly?: Yes. This is one of the coolest restaurants for kids, especially if you get a table near a window. You just might see some giraffes passing by!
10. Le Cellier (EPCOT)
- Cost: $$$-$$$$
- Type of Food: American, Steakhouse
Found in EPCOT’s Canada pavilion, Le Cellier is another one of the most popular restaurants in Disney World and one of the hardest-to-get reservations too. It’s easy to understand why when you consider its prime location, excellent atmosphere, and mouth-watering food.
The menu is pretty varied with some land and sea options, but make no mistake about it, you come here for the steak, and it’s top quality. The service here is among the best in EPCOT and always leaves us with a good impression.
As much as people complain about the increase in prices, the food quality is still pristine and well in line with other signature dining restaurants. I’ve had many meals just as expensive in WDW that I enjoyed much less. In our opinion, it’s worth the extra money for the experience you get and definitely one of the best meals in Disney World.
What to Get: You cannot visit Le Cellier without getting a bowl of the Canadian Cheddar Cheese Soup. Quite possibly the best bowl of soup anywhere and absolutely divine when you dip the warm and soft pretzel bread in it! All of the steaks are incredible, but we are particularly attached to the ribeye. It’s a prime cut of meat and literally melts in your mouth. That or the filet mignon with truffle butter sauce. Who can choose? The wait staff is usually rolling us out the door with a big smile on our faces!
Is it Kid-Friendly?: Yes. Le Cellier appeals to families and it’s also a great date night spot at the same time.
9. Cítricos (Grand Floridian Resort)
- Cost: $$$-$$$$
- Type of Food: Mediterranean, American
Yet another Grand Floridian restaurant in our rankings. Cítricos is a popular signature dining restaurant that serves Mediterranean dishes in a lively and colorful atmosphere, less stuffy than the neighboring Victoria & Albert’s. It’s a high-end restaurant that at the same time has a warm “homey” feel to it.
The decor was recently updated and features a subtle Mary Poppins theme and is much brighter and cheery than the dark color scheme from before. A nice change in our book!
The food doesn’t disappoint and almost everything we’ve gotten in the past has been on par with expectations, even exceeding them. They use a seasonal menu including seafood, meat, and vegetarian choices which rotate. The menu could benefit from a little more risk-taking, but it’s consistently one of the best restaurants at Walt Disney World and doesn’t disappoint.
What to Get: The sweet corn bisque and braised pork belly are standouts on a solid appetizer menu. The short ribs and oak-grilled beef filet are among the best you will ever have. All the desserts are solid but we really liked the Blackberry Tartelette.
Is it Kid-Friendly?: Maybe. The further down the list we go, the less likely it is that these restaurants will appeal to kids. This is fine dining, so if your kids are cool with that, they are welcome.
8. Yachtsman Steakhouse (Yacht Club Resort)
- Cost: $$$-$$$$
- Type of Food: American, Steakhouse
As far as straight-up, old-school steakhouses at Disney World, Yachtsman is the best, bar none! Yachtsman Steakhouse often gets a bit overlooked because of having to travel all the way to the Yacht Club to eat there. It’s also viewed as being a bit “stuffy” and isn’t for everyone.
If you are looking for theming or some kind of entertainment with your dining experience, then you should look elsewhere. However, we come here for one reason, and that is the steak, which is among the best you will find on property. If we are going to a steakhouse, the decor here is exactly what we expect and we find the warm wood panels and fireplace delightful.
Go a few minutes before your reservation so you can see the butcher in the meat locker carving up your meal to perfection. You can also watch the steaks being cooked in the open kitchen.
What to Get: Yachtsman Steakhouse specializes in red meat. Big, juicy slabs of it, and they do it to perfection. The only question is which cut will you get? The porterhouse, the filet, or our favorite, the succulent ribeye? The soups here are a great appetizer before your steak, go for the lobster bisque or French onion, both are amazing.
Is it Kid-Friendly?: Yes. Children are welcome at Yachtsman Steakhouse, especially little meat-eaters. Overall though, they won’t find the decor or theming too interesting so you might want to come another night without them.
7. The BOATHOUSE (Disney Springs)
- Cost: $$-$$$
- Type of Food: Seafood, Steakhouse
We’re getting to the top of our list, and The Boathouse is the overall best restaurant in Disney Springs. There is a lot of competition, but this one comes out on top and is a dining experience we can’t wait for on almost every trip.
The location is absolutely perfect, right on the dock at the water’s edge of The Landing. Before you even go in, make sure to check out all the boats in the back, and even the amphibious cars taking guests for a spin around the lake. This restaurant is huge with each room displaying a different style of nautical life.
The menu is enormous, one of the biggest and best-balanced menus at Disney World. Of course, the seafood is amazing here, but so is the meat. It uses Gibson’s USDA Blue Star Heritage Angus, one of the highest quality pieces of meat you can find anywhere!
What to Get: First, start with something from the Raw Bar like their fresh oysters, gigantic shrimp, or lobsters. The firecracker shrimp is incredible and a bit spicy. We love the Coriander Tuna and Filet Mignot Sliders! The Boathouse is legendary for its oversized desserts, especially our favorite: the Triple Chocolate Layer Cake! It’s enough to split with the whole table and an experience you won’t forget!
Is it Kid-Friendly?: Yes. Try to ask for the boat table, it’s a table actually inside a boat, IN the restaurant. They will flip out if you can make that happen! If not, take them on a ride in one of the amphibious car-boats before or after your meal.
6. California Grill (Contemporary Resort)
- Cost: $$$-$$$$
- Type of Food: American, Seafood, Sushi
The California Grill is a signature dining restaurant and one of the most well-known dining locations in Disney World. It’s nice to know that with all the hype it has, it still is one of our go-to restaurants. The whole dining room is filled with giant windows and being at the top of the Contemporary Resort means you will get some of the most spectacular views in all Walt Disney World.
The food is stellar here and has a wonderful California modern-inspired menu which appeals to a wide range of guests. Don’t forget to book a table in time for the Magic Kingdom fireworks, for which you will have a stunning view!
At one time, the California Grill was as high as number 2 on our list. Though it’s dropped a bit due to a few inconsistent menu items, it still remains in the top 10 Disney World restaurants and a must-do experience for anyone.
It’s recently changed to a pre-fixed menu, meaning that it’s a set price (EXPENSIVE) and you get multiple courses with that price, similar to Monsieur Paul. We don’t like this AS much as it forces you to pay more, even if you want to have a lighter meal.
What to Get: The California Grill has arguably the best sushi at Walt Disney World which is a must-try. The goat cheese ravioli is a wonderful appetizer and the filet of beef is incredible when it is on the menu.
Is it Kid-Friendly?: Yes. We mostly think of the California Grill as a romantic restaurant for couples, but it’s also really cool for kids and they will love seeing the Magic Kingdom fireworks from the roof of the Contemporary Resort.
5. Toledo – Tapas, Steak & Seafood (Coronado Springs Resort)
- Cost: $$$
- Type of Food: Spanish, Seafood, Steakhouse
Toledo – Tapas, Teak & Seafood is one of the newest restaurants on this list, and even we were surprised to rank it this high. The more we thought about it, the more we realized how special this place is.
Located on the top floor of the Gran Destino Tower, Toledo has stunning views of the surrounding parks and hotels and is great for catching a Florida sunset. The design of the restaurant is very original, mixing greenery, striking colors, and oversized painted windows.
We also love the menu and the concept of tapas is really unique. We loved almost everything we had and the prices are in-line with other signature dining restaurants at Disney World. We have no doubt that Toledo will continue to exceed our expectations moving forward and we can’t wait for our next visit!
What to Get: Start out the meal with a few of the tapas of which the chorizo is excellent. For entrees, we loved the braised chicken and it is exceptional and a huge portion. The 28oz bone-in ribeye for two is the most expensive item on the menu, but it’s also by far the best and worth the money!
Is it Kid-Friendly?: Maybe. Toledo has a decent kid’s menu, but overall the restaurant is more for adults. We recommend coming here on a date night, but by all means, bring the children if you prefer.
Toledo – Tapas, Steak & Seafood Menu
4. Topolino’s Terrace – Flavors of the Riviera (Disney’s Riviera Resort)
- Cost: $$$
- Type of Food: Italian, French
Yet another new restaurant makes the Top 10 at Disney World, and Topolino’s Terrace checks all the boxes you want to see in s signature dining experience. We are continuing the theme of restaurants with a view and Topolino’s may be the best of them all.
The difference between this and the previous two is here there is a gorgeous outdoor terrace where you can wait with a drink or take some photos. We could watch the sunset from here every night and never get tired of it.
The restaurant is reminiscent of a Mediterranean cliffside and features a well-balanced mix of French and Italian cuisine with seafood, meats, and handmade pasta on the menu. Both breakfast and dinner are exceptional, but our preference is the latter. However, this also happens to be our favorite character meal when you come for breakfast so don’t miss that.
What to Get: It may sound strange, but get the root bisque…trust us on this one. The gnocchi or ricotta are also mind-blowing appetizers. Any of the pasta dishes are excellent, but we are partial to the Rigatoni. Our favorite item on the menu is the Lamb Shank, as it’s truly special! For dessert, the Warm Valrhona Chocolate Cake with a caramel center simply can’t be beat!
Is it Kid-Friendly?: Yes. While you can bring your kids here for any meal you like, they will enjoy the character breakfast the most and it’s a great place to meet Mickey and Minnie.
3. Jiko – The Cooking Place (Animal Kingdom Lodge)
- Cost: $$$
- Type of Food: African
Time and time again, Jiko stays firmly in our Top 10 restaurants at Disney World, this time making it all the way up to #3. Some restaurants are more flashy with a cooler theme. Some have incredible views and wow you with fireworks shows. Jiko might not have those, but everything it does, it does exceptionally well.
Jiko’s menu is inspired by the vast cuisines found throughout Africa and it is by far the most exotic of all the Disney signature restaurants. You are not going to find a burger and fries on the menu, but you will find some of the most flavorful and inspired dishes anywhere.
In all our years of coming to Jiko, not once have we ever walked away being disappointed with our meal. That counts for a lot as most of the other top Disney World restaurants have disappointed us at least once. Do not miss out on one of the best Disney dining experiences.
What to Get: The flatbreads here are legendary. The lamb is the best we’ve ever had anywhere, and the short rib is also not to be missed. And the filet mignon with mac and cheese is one of our favorite Disney entrees of all time. It’s life-changing! Make sure you enjoy it with one of the many South African wines they have in the cellar.
Is it Kid-Friendly?: Not really. Not that you can’t bring kids here, but I personally wouldn’t. Most of the menu is on the adventurous side for kids and the ambiance won’t really do it for them either. Save it for date night instead.
2. Takumi-Tei (EPCOT)
- Cost: $$$$
- Type of Food: Japanese, Steakhouse, Sushi
Takumi-Tei is not supposed to be a theme park restaurant. The food quality you find here is unmatched in any park and outdone only by our number one selection. Stepping inside is like being whisked away from EPCOT and being transported into a small Japanese village. Honestly, you have no idea you are in Florida anymore.
The name of the restaurant is translated “House of the Artisan,” and the decor is outstanding, with each room representing an element from the Earth, and each one more beautiful than the previous.
Takumi-Tei also recently switched to a prix fixe menu, with guests choosing between two different very expensive options.
The food is very expensive here, much more than your average signature restaurant. However, the quality of the food matches the price, with high-quality grades of fish and steak that are hard to get without actually going to Japan. The presentation is also supreme and every dish looked like it could win an award for beauty.
Takumi-Tei is one of the most refined and sophisticated restaurants we’ve ever been to. The service was some of the best we’ve had with two waitresses dedicated to our table and they did everything but eat the food for you. This is a truly unique and special dining experience you can’t miss.
What to Get: You won’t be disappointed with anything here, it’s all spectacular. The sushi and sashimi are some of the highest quality you will ever have. If there is one thing though you have to try, it’s the Japanese A5 Wagyu steak. This is by far the most tender, most exquisite piece of meat I’ve ever put in my mouth. It’s very expensive but worth every penny.
Is it Kid-Friendly?: Not really. Do you sense a theme in the top Disney World restaurants? Takumi-Tei welcomes children, but this menu is expensive with a lot of options they will not appreciate. Part of the beauty of this place is the serenity you feel when you are here, and let’s just say rambunctious children might put a damper on that vibe.
1. Victoria & Albert’s (Grand Floridian Resort)
- Cost: $$$$
- Type of Food: American, Fine Dining
As if there was any doubt about what our top restaurant in Disney World is. Victoria & Albert’s has had that title since the day they opened its doors over 3 decades ago and is keeping a tight grip on the title.
What can we say about this Victoria & Albert’s? It’s not only the best restaurant at Walt Disney World, it’s also the best restaurant in Central Florida and has won the prestigious AAA Five Diamond award, as well as just about any other one you can think of.
All this fan-fare doesn’t come without substance, this is without a doubt the most exceptional dining experience we’ve ever had. It’s an extremely romantic restaurant and the perfect place to celebrate a special event. The service is A+ with the wait staff at your call the entire time. Honestly, the entire vibe makes you feel like royalty.
The food and wines are of the utmost quality, and second to none. I could go on and on about all the wonderful courses, but the menu changes so often it will be completely different when you go. Trust us though, it’s all excellent.
Don’t expect to walk in straight from the theme parks, however. Victoria & Albert’s is the poshest restaurant at Disney World and a dinner jacket is required for men, along with a collared shirt, dress slacks, and dress shoes. Elegant evening attire, such as a dress or pants ensemble, is required for women. Absolutely no casual wear here meaning no jeans, t-shirts, shorts, capris, flip-flops, or sneakers.
This is also the most expensive Disney restaurant, so be prepared to spend at least $200 per person, or more depending on what you order. In our mind though, even at that high price, it’s worth every penny.
Victoria & Albert’s is hands-down the best restaurant at Disney World and a once-in-a-lifetime dining experience. This goes to the top of your Disney bucket list and you need to do whatever it takes to try it at least once.
What to Get: The menu at Victoria & Alberts changes daily and you will find something completely different every time you go. There are a variety of tasting menus created personally by the chef, and we recommend splurging on the biggest one you can afford.
Is it Kid-Friendly?: No. This is the only restaurant that straight out will not seat children under 10 years old. You can understand that for most couples this is a once-in-a-lifetime meal and the staff wants to maintain a certain atmosphere, one that doesn’t include small children.
Worst Disney World Restaurants
While we love dining in Disney World, it isn’t always the best experience. In fact, there are some restaurants we just plain don’t like and never want to return to ever again. Ok, we are being dramatic, but they aren’t good. With so many other choices, don’t waste your time on these.
Here is a list of the Worst Disney World Restaurants:
- Tony’s Town Square – This is the worst restaurant at Disney World. You can get better Italian food from the frozen foods section of your nearest grocery store.
- The Diamond Horseshoe – Being in Magic Kingdom is great, but everything else isn’t. And while the restaurant serves up tasty food from Liberty Tree Tavern, the atmosphere just makes it WORSE.
- Planet Hollywood – Super loud music, mediocre food, and the overly young crowd makes this a place to skip for vacationers.
- Big River Grille & Brewing Works – Having a pub on the Boardwalk is a great idea in theory, but everything is bad here from the service to the food.
- Paradiso 37 – So many better choices to eat in Disney Springs and too expensive to pay for bland food.
- Chef Mickey’s – Definitely one of the most popular restaurants in Disney World, but not one of the best. This place is chaotic, has bad food quality and always seems dirty. We’ll pass.
- Restaurant Marrakesh – For food that’s supposed to be well-spiced, Restaurant Marrakesh is pretty bland. Spice Road Table has better food if you are looking for something similar.
- Nine Dragons – Half of the dishes are inedible and you’ll find better food at your local Chinese restaurant back home.
- Mama Melrose – Not everything is bad here, and the ambiance is pretty cool, but there are much better meals to be had at Hollywood Studios.
- Rainforest Cafe – We hesitated to put this on our list. The food is just O.K., and the same as the chain restaurant outside of Disney.
Best Disney Character Dining Meals
A favorite Disney dining pastime is going to character meals. Though they aren’t for everyone, and you are paying a premium to meet the characters, it is a quintessential Disney World experience you have to do once per trip, especially if you have kids.
Here are our picks for the Best Character Meals at Disney World:
- Topolino’s Terrace – This character breakfast is our favorite in all Disney World. Mickey, Minnie, Donald, and Daisy are all here and the food quality is second to none.
- Tusker House – This is the best character breakfast in any park with a great choice of food for adventurous and more traditional guests. Plus you get Mickey and the gang in their safari outfits!
- 1900 Park Fare – This is a great character meal for breakfast or dinner with a different lineup of characters for each. We also like the food quality with a lot of interesting choices. Strawberry soup anyone?
- Ravello – This is another character meal with excellent food. Goofy and his pals are the stars and dressed in their vacation outfits. It is pricey, but worth it if staying nearby.
- Story Book Dining at Artist Point – This has perhaps the coolest character experience. Yes, Snow White and the Dwarfs are here, but it’s the Queen who steals the show.
- Cinderella’s Royal Table – This is the classic Disney character experience and is located in Cinderella Castle. It’s expensive, but the location and selection of princesses can’t be beaten.
- Hollywood & Vine – Great if you have small kids who are fans of the Disney Junior characters like Vampirina, Sofia the First, Doc McStuffins and others.
- ‘Ohana – Just for breakfast Lilo and Stitch come out to eat with guests along with Mickey, Goofy and others. Great if you are staying on the monorail loop.
- The Crystal Palace – Another character meal at the Magic Kingdom and can be done for breakfast or dinner. Food quality is ok, with some excellent options and some mediocre ones.
- Akershus Royal Banquet Hall – The perfect place to meet all the Disney princesses. Convenient if in EPCOT or the EPCOT-area resorts.
Best Restaurants at Disney World for Adults
While Walt Disney World is great for kids, it’s equally as enjoyable for adults. Sometimes you just need a night away from the kids to unwind and have a nice, romantic dinner with your significant other.
Here are our picks for the Best Romantic Restaurants in Disney World:
- Victoria & Albert’s – If you are looking for a romantic dinner, you can’t beat this. This goes to the top of any Disney World bucket list.
- California Grill – The atmosphere on top of the Contemporary Resort overlooking the Magic Kingdom is second to none. Make sure to book during the fireworks and you’ll have the end to an incredible evening.
- Takumi-Tei – Stepping inside this restaurant is like leaving EPCOT for a moment and entering another world. The food quality at this high-end Japanese steakhouse is second-to-none and a welcome escape from the chaotic theme parks.
- Narcoossee’s – Grab a table along the water and watch the Magic Kingdom fireworks while enjoying a fine seafood dining experience.
- Monsieur Paul – This high-end French restaurant will make you feel like you’ve teleported to Paris for the evening. Don’t skip the desserts, they are divine.
- Yachtsman Steakhouse – This has an old-school steakhouse feel to it with oak finishings and fireplaces to get cozy. Grab a ribeye and a glass of wine and you’re all set.
- Le Cellier – We love the location of Le Cellier in the back of the Canada pavilion behind the gardens. Having dinner in a wine cellar has a warm and romantic feel to it and it is an experience adults will appreciate.
- Flying Fish – Head over to Flying Fish for an elegant seafood dinner followed by a relaxing stroll around The Boardwalk at night.
- San Angel Inn – This place has perhaps the most romantic atmosphere of all the restaurants on this list being located in an outdoor Mexican marketplace at night with a view of the stars, pyramids, and the boats passing by.
- Sci-Fi Dine-In – This is a popular spot for families, but it’s also great for a date night. Eating dinner at a drive-in theater is what young romantics did back in the day, and now you can too.
Best Buffets at Disney World
If value for your money is what you are looking for, you’ve come to the right place! Disney World has a variety of buffets that are sure to satisfy your appetite, no matter how large.
Here are our picks for the Best Buffets in Disney World:
- Boma – You can do this for breakfast or dinner and both are unbelievable. Great quality food for a buffet with a large range of options that are not available in most other restaurants.
- Tusker House – Great selection of African-inspired dishes like spicy hummus, fresh pita and naan breads, roasted meats, and banana pudding.
- Cape May Cafe – If you like Seafood, this is the place for you. Can you really say no to all-you-can-eat salmon, fried shrimp, crab legs, calamari, clams, and mussels? Not to mention the carving station!
- Biergarten – This is a food lover’s dream come true with a huge selection of German meats, side dishes and desserts. The atmosphere is also top-notch and designed to replicate an outdoor Oktoberfest.
- Akershus – This fun princess-themed Norwegian buffet is a great option at EPCOT for families that want to meet the princesses. It’s the next best option to meet them besides the more expensive Cinderella’s Royal Table at Magic Kingdom. Plus, we love some of their unique Norwegian-inspired offerings.
Disney World Dining Reservations
Of course, after reading about all the best places to eat at Disney World, you need to make reservations to book a table. Advanced Dining Reservations (ADRs) guarantee you a table at your restaurants of choice on the dates you choose.
Getting ADRs is extremely important since most of the best restaurants book up months ahead of time. Don’t expect to walk up to a restaurant like the California Grill on the night you want to dine there and actually get a table. This all needs to be planned out months before your trip.
Don’t underestimate this, it’s one of the most important steps when planning a Disney World vacation.
Read our Disney World Dining Reservations Guide for more tips and info on booking your restaurants.
When Can You Book Restaurants at Disney World?
Disney Advanced Dining Reservations can be made the following number of days in advance:
- All Guests (guests not staying in Walt Disney World – 60 Days (Previously 180 days, now reduced to 60 days)
- Walt Disney World Resort hotel guests – 60 Days + 10 (Previously 180+10 days, now reduced to 60+10 days)
Advanced Dining Reservations for Walt Disney World Resort restaurants can be made up to 60 days ahead of your desired dining date. If you want to book a restaurant for September 1, you can make the reservation 60 days before that.
Walt Disney World Resort Hotel guests can book dining reservations 60 days before their vacation start date for the entire length of the trip (up to 10 days). That means if your vacation starts on September 1, you can start making advanced dining reservations 60 days before that for the first 10 days of your trip. Hence 60+10 days.
How Can I Get a Dining Reservation?
Disney World Advanced Dining Reservations can be made online using The Walt Disney World Website or the My Disney Experience app.
Restaurant reservations can also be made on the phone by calling (407) WDW-DINE or (407) 939-3463.
- Online Reservations – Advanced dining reservations open each morning at 6:00 am ET.
- Phone Reservations – Dining reservations are available on the phone each day starting at 7:00 am ET.
What are the Hardest to Get Restaurant Reservations?
Not all ADRs are created equal and some sell out very quickly and are much harder to book. The hardest Advanced Dining Reservations at Disney World are:
- Cinderella’s Royal Table
- Be Our Guest
- Victoria & Albert’s (especially the Chef’s Table)
- Chef Mickey’s
- ‘Ohana
- Space 220
- Story Book Dining at Artist Point with Snow White
- Oga’s Cantina
There are a lot of other hard-to-get reservations, but those are the hardest. If you plan on dining at any of those restaurants, we suggest you be ready to book a table first thing in the morning on the very first day you are eligible to make reservations.
That wraps up our rankings of the best Disney World restaurants. We hope you enjoyed it and that you now have everything you need to book all the restaurants for your trip. It was one of the hardest rankings posts we’ve done. There were a lot of popular places to eat we left off our top table service restaurants list, we just couldn’t name them all.
We want to hear what your top Disney World restaurants are, so drop them in the comments!
For more great Disney Restaurants be sure to check out our other guides:
- Best Places to Eat at Disney’s Magic Kingdom
- Best Places to Eat at EPCOT
- Best Places to Eat at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
- Best Places to Eat at Disney’s Animal Kingdom
If you are going to Disney World soon, make sure to read our Disney World Planning Guide for all the tips and info you will need to cover everything! Also, check out our Disney World Crowd Calendar so you know when the best time to visit is!
Your Thoughts
I want to know what you think about our list of the best restaurants at Disney World…
- What are your Top 10 Restaurants?
- What is the overall Best Restaurant at Disney World?
Let us know in the comments section below!
If you enjoyed this article, as always I appreciate it if you’d share it with others via social media. I work hard at making this website into a useful resource for you and your family to plan your visit to the Disney Parks and I hope it can help you! Thanks 🙂
My name is Ziggy and I love Disney, everything Disney! I grew up on Disney and it has and continues to be a huge part of my life. I started young when my parents took me to Disney World when I was 18 months old. Little did they know that would be the first of an uncountable number of trips we would take. I have so many amazing memories going to Disney with my family and friends and it has been interwoven into my DNA.
kamir bouchareb st
Thursday 26th of January 2023
شكرا
Skip Tinker
Tuesday 27th of December 2022
Surprise D no mention of Trattoria Al Forno on the Boardwalk. Best meal we had over 8 days.
zbdrariI
Wednesday 5th of January 2022
1
Joek
Sunday 2nd of January 2022
What goes good with chicken nuggets and french fries ? An $11 hamburger ?
Personally I enjoy spending $20 per meal per person, three times a day.
zbdrariI
Wednesday 5th of January 2022
1