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The Disney Rooftop Restaurant Most Guests Don’t Know About

When it comes to a Disney vacation, food plays a significant role in creating magical memories. At Walt Disney World Resort, dining isn’t just about grabbing a quick bite—it’s a fully immersive experience. Whether you’re planning to indulge in fine dining, casual quick-service meals, or simply enjoy iconic Disney snacks, making food a central part of your trip can elevate your visit. And if you’re a fan of extraordinary dining with a view, then Walt Disney World’s rooftop dining options offer the perfect way to celebrate, relax, and enjoy the magic from above.

One of the most unique dining spots in Walt Disney World is Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground, but today, we’re focusing on another equally stunning area—rooftop dining. Here’s what you need to know about the best spots, especially at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort, where you’ll find the hidden gem, Toledo – Tapas, Steak & Seafood.

Rooftop Dining at Walt Disney World

Rooftop dining in Walt Disney World provides guests with a unique blend of incredible food, luxurious atmosphere, and breathtaking views. While California Grill and Topolino’s Terrace – Flavors of the Riviera are the most well-known, another fantastic rooftop dining option awaits at Gran Destino Tower at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort.

A night scene featuring vibrant red fireworks exploding in the sky near a theme park with illuminated rides. In the foreground, there's a building with large windows revealing a warmly lit interior.
Credit: Disney

Let’s start with the classics:

California Grill at Disney’s Contemporary Resort

Located at the top of Disney’s Contemporary Resort, California Grill offers a top-notch dining experience paired with spectacular views over Magic Kingdom Park. It’s especially popular during the evening, as guests who dine here have exclusive access to the rooftop terrace, where they can watch the “Happily Ever After” fireworks show.

For the best experience, secure an advanced dining reservation about an hour before the fireworks begin. This timing allows you to savor your appetizers and main course, with dessert or coffee perfectly timed to enjoy as you return to your table after the fireworks. The combination of delicious cuisine and the dazzling view makes this one of the best dining experiences at Walt Disney World.

Topolino’s Terrace – Flavors of the Riviera

Perched atop Disney’s Riviera Resort, Topolino’s Terrace offers a blend of French and Italian cuisine inspired by the Riviera. Guests can enjoy breakfast with classic Disney characters or indulge in a signature dinner featuring fresh meats, seafood, and pasta. Like California Grill, the restaurant offers stunning rooftop views, and its elegant outdoor terrace provides the perfect spot to watch the sunset over Lake Buena Vista.

Discover Toledo – Tapas, Steak & Seafood at Gran Destino Tower

Opening in 2019, Gran Destino Tower at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort brought new life to this Moderate Resort, offering guests a more upscale experience. One of the standout features is Toledo – Tapas, Steak & Seafood, a restaurant that combines fine dining with a more relaxed atmosphere, making it the ideal spot for both a casual meal or a special occasion.

A large, elegant hotel with a cream and light brown facade is reflected in a calm lake. The building features arched windows and is surrounded by trees and smaller structures. The sky is clear with a few clouds.

Toledo – Tapas, Steak & Seafood

Inspired by the flavors of Spain, Toledo offers a diverse menu featuring small plates (tapas), succulent steaks, and fresh seafood. One of the highlights of the menu is the extensive wine list, featuring over 50 selections of Spanish wine, all curated by Disney’s Master Sommelier.

The ambiance at Toledo is just as impressive as the food. The space is adorned with large olive trees, bringing a touch of nature indoors, while the ceiling changes color throughout the evening, drawing inspiration from the iconic Sagrada Familia in Barcelona. Floor-to-ceiling windows provide stunning views of the Walt Disney World Resort, and if you time your meal right, you might even catch a glimpse of the fireworks from EPCOT and Hollywood Studios.

Why Toledo is a Must-Dine

Recently, we had the pleasure of dining at Toledo, and it exceeded our expectations in every way. While it’s categorized as a unique dining experience, we felt it offered a fine dining experience without the hefty price tag. The food was delicious, and the guest service was exceptional.

Here’s what we loved:

  • The Tapas: Perfect for sharing, the tapas allowed us to try a variety of flavors. We especially recommend the Patatas Bravas—crispy potatoes served with a spicy sauce that’s a must-try!
  • The Atmosphere: From the olive trees to the color-changing ceiling, Toledo’s design is elegant and relaxing, making it perfect for a memorable meal.
  • The Views: The large windows and rooftop vantage point made for an unforgettable dining experience.

Top Tips for Dining at Toledo – Tapas, Steak & Seafood

To make the most of your meal at Toledo, here are some tips to consider:

  1. Make an Advanced Dining Reservation: Toledo is popular, and reservations are essential to guarantee your spot. Reservations are available from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. daily.
  2. Time it Right for Fireworks: If you want to enjoy the fireworks from your table, aim for an 8:30 p.m. reservation. Request a table by the window when you check-in for the best view.
  3. Arrive Early: Take the opportunity to explore Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort before your meal. There are beautiful photo spots by Lago Dorado, and the resort itself is worth exploring.
  4. Enjoy Pre-Dinner Drinks: Head to Dahlia Lounge, located just next to Toledo, for a pre-dinner cocktail or specialty beverage. The lounge offers equally stunning views from the rooftop terrace.
  5. Plan for Travel Time: If you’re staying at another Disney Resort, allow at least 1 hour for travel using Disney transportation. It’s best to factor in extra time if you’re taking a bus, as they may stop at other locations around the resort before arriving at Gran Destino Tower.

Other Dining Experiences at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort

Toledo isn’t the only dining option worth exploring at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort. The resort also offers several other excellent dining locations:

  • Three Bridges Bar & Grill: Located at Villa del Lago, this over-the-water dining location offers beautiful views and a casual menu featuring sandwiches, salads, and drinks.
  • Dahlia Lounge: With its stunning rooftop terrace, it’s perfect for pre- or post-dinner drinks.
  • Barcelona Lounge: A chic lounge serving morning coffee and cocktails by night.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking for a romantic night out, a place to celebrate, or just want to treat yourself to a fantastic meal, Toledo – Tapas, Steak & Seafood should be at the top of your list. With delicious food, beautiful surroundings, and a relaxed atmosphere, it’s one of the best dining experiences at Walt Disney World. And with its relatively accessible price point, it offers excellent value for a dining experience that feels both upscale and welcoming.

Credit: V Mills

So, next time you’re planning your Disney vacation, don’t miss out on this hidden gem at Gran Destino Tower. With spectacular views, great food, and a memorable atmosphere, Toledo is sure to become one of your favorite Disney dining spots.

Enjoy your magical dining experience!

Victoria Mills

Victoria is a Disney-loving, tea-drinking, Math teacher from Liverpool, England. Her motto is 'work hard, Disney harder'! Having taken part in the Disney College Program back in 2010, Victoria's love and appreciation for Walt Disney World only grew, and it's the place where she feels most herself - it's home!

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