DiningUpdates

5 Disney Restaurants We’ll Skip Next Time: Pricey and Overrated

At Disney, food is a magical part of the experience. From mouthwatering snacks to gourmet dining, Disney offers a culinary adventure for everyone. While we love to dive into sweet treats, on-the-go bites, and affordable eats, there are a few restaurants that, after a visit, may not be on our list for a repeat.

Whether it’s the high price tag, the drop in food quality, or simply an experience that didn’t live up to the Disney magic, here are six Disney dining spots we won’t be visiting again.

Chef Mickey’s: A Classic That Lost Its Charm

When thinking about iconic Disney dining, Chef Mickey’s at Disney’s Contemporary Resort often comes to mind. Located just a short monorail ride from Magic Kingdom, this character dining buffet has long been a family favorite. With views of the monorail and a chance to meet Mickey, Minnie, and the gang, it was a must-do for many families.

Chef Mickeys Credit Disney
Credit: Disney

However, over the years, the food quality has declined while the prices have risen, making this once-cherished dining spot fall flat. Though the character interaction is still fun, and kids may love the lively atmosphere, the menu of roast meats, salads, and sides doesn’t quite justify the cost anymore. Unless you’re set on character dining or the nostalgia factor, we’d recommend considering other dining options.

Rainforest Café: A Nostalgic Disney Springs Staple

For years, Rainforest Café at Disney Springs (and Disney’s Animal Kingdom) was a family favorite. Who could resist the immersive jungle atmosphere with animated animals, thunderstorms, and delicious tropical drinks? While the experience is fun, especially for kids, Disney Springs has significantly expanded its dining options.

With new favorites like The Boathouse, Blaze Pizza, and Morimoto Asia, Rainforest Café no longer feels as special. Although it still offers solid American cuisine, you’ll find better options for your Disney Springs dining adventures. However, we still enjoy a quick visit to the Lava Lounge for a refreshing cocktail between shopping stops!

The Crystal Palace: Dining with Winnie the Pooh Isn’t Enough

Located in Magic Kingdom, The Crystal Palace offers a charming Victorian greenhouse setting with character dining featuring Winnie the Pooh and friends. Unfortunately, the food—an American buffet of basic offerings like roast chicken, mashed potatoes, and standard desserts—doesn’t match the elegance of the space.

While families with younger children might enjoy the character interactions, especially since these characters are a bit harder to meet elsewhere, the cramped dining room and average food just don’t make it worth the price. If you’re after great food, we suggest looking elsewhere.

California Grill: A Pricey Experience with an Amazing View

Perched atop Disney’s Contemporary Resort, California Grill is known for its stunning views of Magic Kingdom and Bay Lake, along with its upscale menu featuring dishes like Sonoma Goat Cheese Ravioli, sushi, and expertly prepared steaks. The restaurant is especially popular for its panoramic views of the Happily Ever After fireworks show.

A group of people sit indoors at a restaurant, looking out of large windows at colorful fireworks lighting up the night sky. Plates of food and drinks are on the table, and the diners appear engaged and entertained by the enchanting Disney celebrations unfolding outside.
Credit: Disney

Despite the delicious food and unbeatable views, the high cost and difficulty in securing a reservation make California Grill a one-time splurge for many Disney fans. With so many other great dining spots in Walt Disney World, this is one we’d skip on future trips unless it’s a special occasion.

Cinderella’s Royal Table: A Magical One-Time Experience

Few dining experiences at Walt Disney World are as enchanting as Cinderella’s Royal Table inside Cinderella Castle in the Magic Kingdom. Dining in the castle, meeting Disney princesses, and enjoying a prix fixe meal sounds like a fairytale come true. But, like many magical experiences, it comes with a hefty price tag.

The character interactions are fantastic, and the setting is undeniably magical, but with dishes like Steamed Mussels and Beef Tenderloin, the food often doesn’t justify the high cost. Plus, securing a reservation is tough. For many, this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, especially for those with little princesses in tow. However, it’s not a restaurant we’d visit again unless we’re bringing along first-timers.

Victoria & Albert’s: Luxury Dining You May Only Do Once

Considered one of the most exclusive and luxurious dining experiences in Walt Disney World, Victoria & Albert’s at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort is the pinnacle of fine dining. With an award-winning chef, an elegant atmosphere, and a personalized menu, this restaurant is unlike any other at Disney. It’s a true culinary adventure.

That said, it comes with a very high price tag and is one of the most difficult reservations to secure. The lavish multi-course meal is designed for a special occasion, and while it’s an unforgettable experience, it’s also one that most Guests are likely to do just once. If you’re celebrating something big, like an anniversary or milestone, it’s worth the splurge.

A luxurious dining room features a grand chandelier hanging from a decorative ceiling. The room is adorned with ornate columns and elegant table settings, reminiscent of the Victoria & Albert's Disney dining experience. A large floral arrangement in an ornate vase serves as the centerpiece, adding to the opulent ambiance.
Credit: Disney

But for most Disney trips, we’d recommend focusing on less expensive but still delicious options.


Wrapping Up

Disney offers countless incredible dining experiences, from quick bites to signature restaurants. While these six spots have their charms, they didn’t quite make the cut for return visits based on food quality, pricing, or overall experience. Still, each of these locations holds a place in Disney history and might be worth trying once—just maybe not twice!

What Disney restaurants have you crossed off your dining list? Share your experiences in the comments!

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