Disney Dining Delights: Our Family's Favorite Restaurants and Lounges at Walt Disney World
- Jessica Breugelmans
- Sep 7, 2024
- 4 min read
There are so many great dining and lounge options available at the Walt Disney World Resort, and my family has definitely found some favorites over the years! Whether you're looking for unique dining experiences, family-friendly atmospheres, or just a cool place to grab a drink, there's something for everyone at Disney.
EPCOT
Biergarten Restaurant
One of our top picks at EPCOT, the Biergarten Restaurant offers a charming Bavarian atmosphere with communal seating and live entertainment. The buffet style is perfect for families, and the kids always find plenty of different foods to eat. It's a refreshing change from the typical kids' menu found at many other Walt Disney World restaurants.
Honorable Mention: La Crêperie de Paris
Tucked away in the France Pavilion, La Crêperie de Paris is a delightful spot to enjoy authentic French crepes at super affordable prices. It's often overlooked by visitors, making it an excellent choice for a quieter, more intimate dining experience. Reservations are usually easy to come by, and you can often walk in without a long wait.
TBD: Space 220 Lounge & Restaurant
We're super excited to try this new addition on our next trip. With its space-themed elevator ride and immersive dining experience, it promises to be a highlight. Come back in a few weeks for an update on our experience!
Magic Kingdom
Tied for 1st - Be Our Guest
Be Our Guest offers a truly enchanting dining experience inside the Beast's castle. From the grand ballroom to the mysterious West Wing, the setting is straight out of a fairy tale. The French-inspired menu is diverse and delicious, making it a top choice for a memorable meal.
Tied for 1st (and arguably underrated) - Jungle Navigation Co. LTD Skipper Canteen
The Skipper Canteen is a hidden gem with an adventurous theme and a menu inspired by flavors from around the world. With nods to the classic Jungle Cruise attraction, the restaurant immerses guests in a lively and quirky atmosphere full of plenty of “dad” jokes from your skipper (aka waiter). And do not miss the “not-so-secret” secret menu item Pao de Queijo. As an added bonus, we historically have been able to make same-day reservations for this restaurant as well as walk-up!
TBD: The Crystal Palace
Of all the times I've been to Disney, I've yet to try this iconic restaurant. Located at the end of Main Street, U.S.A., The Crystal Palace is known for its charming setting and character dining experience. I can't wait to try it in a couple of weeks and share my thoughts in an upcoming update!
Hollywood Studios
The Hollywood Brown Derby
Modeled after the iconic Brown Derby in Hollywood, California, this restaurant exudes old-world glamour and sophistication. The menu features contemporary American cuisine, and the vintage Hollywood ambiance provides a unique dining experience. However, we're still holding out hope that Disney brings back the opportunity to dine with an Imagineer, which was a truly special and educational experience.
Honorable mention: Oga's Cantina
Located in Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge, Oga's Cantina offers a lively atmosphere and an array of themed beverages, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic. The eclectic music and otherworldly decor make it a fun stop for Star Wars fans, but it's important to note that the food selection is limited. As a result, it's best enjoyed as a quick stop for a drink and to soak in the immersive surroundings.
Animal Kingdom
Sanaa (technically not in Animal Kingdom, but rather at the Animal Kingdom Lodge)
Nestled within Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge, Sanaa offers a unique dining experience with stunning views of the Sunset Savanna. The restaurant's Indian-African fusion cuisine is highlighted by the famous bread service, a selection of flavorful dips paired with various breads, and the soup and kid’s butter chicken are absolutely delicious. Make sure to snag an early reservation time and arrive early to hopefully get a table by the floor-to-ceiling windows!
Resorts
California Grill
Perched atop Disney's Contemporary Resort, California Grill boasts panoramic views of Magic Kingdom and a sophisticated dining atmosphere. The menu features modern American cuisine and an award-winning wine list. This was our first stop on arrival day last trip and wow! Ok, not gonna lie, a little pricey, but we arrived pretty late in the day and needed to have an 8pm dinner reservation (super late for us as we have 2 kiddos), but what we didn't realize is that this would be the perfect way to kick off our Disney vacation. Not only was the food outstanding but we also had a view of the castle and the fireworks with the entire program and music piped in. What a truly magical way to end a long travel day. Sooooo worth it.
Honorable mention: 'Ohana
Located at Disney's Polynesian Village Resort, 'Ohana offers a family-style dining experience with a Hawaiian twist. While the food is good, we found that some dishes tasted similar, and the overall cost was a bit high for what was offered. However, the atmosphere, breakfast character dining and view of the seven seas lagoon and castle make it a popular choice for many Disney visitors.
TBD: Top of the World Lounge — A Villains Lair
Where are my DVC members?! This DVC (Disney Vacation Club) exclusive lounge at Bay Lake Tower is on our must-visit list for our upcoming trip. We're eager to experience the unique theme and enjoy the stunning views offered from this vantage point. Be sure to check back soon for an update after our visit!
Disney dining is always an adventure, and we can't wait to continue exploring and finding new spots to love. Cheers to good food, fun experiences, and magical memories at the happiest place on earth!
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