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The Ultimate Guide to Dining at Walt Disney World: Top Restaurants to Visit

When planning a Walt Disney World vacation, dining plays a significant role in making your trip memorable. With an array of culinary experiences across the Parks and Resorts, it’s more than just hot dogs and burgers. In fact, Disney offers some incredible dining options, ranging from casual bites to high-end meals.

Whether you’re seeking a quick snack or a luxurious dinner, Walt Disney World has you covered. Below, we’ll share some of the top restaurants that should be on your must-visit list during your magical trip.

1. Space 220 – EPCOT

One of EPCOT’s newest dining experiences, Space 220, takes Guests on a gastronomic journey that’s out of this world. The immersive restaurant features a prix-fixe menu for both lunch (two courses) and dinner (three courses), offering delicious American cuisine.

The highlight of Space 220 isn’t just the food; it’s the experience of being 220 miles above Earth. Guests take a space elevator up to the restaurant, where the dining area offers incredible views of Earth from outer space. For a lighter option, consider dining in the lounge, where you can order appetizers and smaller plates while still soaking in the unique atmosphere.

A futuristic restaurant interior with large windows displaying a view of Earth from space. The seating includes black tables and chairs, and the ceiling features blue lighting accents that add to the modern, sci-fi ambiance. Perfect for Disney Dining Reservations, the floor is carpeted in a blue pattern.
Credit: Disney

Whether you choose the full meal or a quick bite in the lounge, Space 220 is a must-visit for any EPCOT first-timer.

2. Topolino’s Terrace – Disney’s Riviera Resort

For an elegant way to start your Disney day, consider Topolino’s Terrace at Disney’s Riviera Resort. This character breakfast offers a prix-fixe menu with delicious options for the entire family, along with visits from beloved characters like Mickey, Minnie, Donald, and Daisy. Each character dons stylish outfits exclusive to Topolino’s Terrace, making it a charming experience for all ages.

If you’re looking for something a bit more relaxed, try booking a dinner reservation instead. At night, Topolino’s Terrace offers an elevated dining experience with breathtaking views and exquisite dishes, perfect for those who want to enjoy a sophisticated meal without character interactions.

3. Sanaa – Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

For a truly unique dining experience, Sanaa at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge is a fantastic choice. With large windows offering views of the savanna, you can watch giraffes, zebras, and other wildlife as you enjoy your meal. The restaurant is known for its African-inspired menu, featuring a variety of flavors and textures.

One of the most popular items on the menu is the Indian-style bread service, which allows you to sample a selection of dips and spreads. For breakfast, Sanaa offers a casual quick-service option, ideal for those looking for a great meal before heading to the Parks. Reservations are required for lunch and dinner, where you can enjoy a full-service meal of tender meats, seafood, and vibrant flavors.

4. Steakhouse 71 – Disney’s Contemporary Resort

Located at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, Steakhouse 71 is a modern yet nostalgic dining experience, nodding back to the 1970s when the resort first opened. This restaurant is popular for its steaks, burgers, and breakfast options, offering a cozy respite from the hustle and bustle of the Parks.

A restaurant entrance with a dark wooden sign above, displaying the words "STEAKHOUSE" in large, gold letters, followed by the number "71" in a matching gold color. The decor includes modern lighting and a dark, sophisticated aesthetic reminiscent of Disney restaurants.
Credit: Paula Kennedy

If you’re in the area and looking for a last-minute meal, Steakhouse 71 is known for having good availability, so be sure to check the app. For a lighter bite or a drink, the Steakhouse 71 Lounge is a great option, featuring the restaurant’s signature burger and craft cocktails.

5. Garden Grill – EPCOT

Garden Grill is a rotating restaurant located in The Land Pavilion at EPCOT, offering a family-style dining experience. What makes this spot even more special is its character interactions. Mickey, Chip ‘n’ Dale, and other favorites make appearances as the restaurant slowly rotates, providing views of the Living with the Land attraction below.

Recently, breakfast service has resumed, and the signature cinnamon breakfast loaf is a guest favorite. With its friendly atmosphere and interactive dining experience, Garden Grill is perfect for families looking for a fun meal during their EPCOT day.

6. Cinderella’s Royal Table – Magic Kingdom

Dining inside Cinderella Castle is a bucket-list experience for many Disney fans, and Cinderella’s Royal Table delivers an unforgettable meal in a truly magical setting. Offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner, this prix-fixe dining experience features visits from beloved Disney princesses, making it a must for anyone looking for a fairytale moment.

While this meal comes at a higher price point, the grandeur of dining inside the castle, combined with character interactions, makes it well worth it for many Guests. Reservations are a must for this sought-after dining experience, so be sure to book early.

7. Narcoossee’s – Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

Narcoossee’s is a signature dining restaurant located at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, offering stunning views of Seven Seas Lagoon and Magic Kingdom. Known for its elegant ambiance and fresh seafood, this restaurant is ideal for a romantic evening or a special occasion.

Whether you’re in the mood for lobster or a perfectly cooked steak, Narcoossee’s promises a high-end dining experience.

8. Be Our Guest – Magic Kingdom

Step into the world of Beauty and the Beast at Be Our Guest, located inside Beast’s Castle at Magic Kingdom. With its enchanting setting and French-inspired menu, this restaurant is a favorite for many Disney Guests. You can dine in one of three beautifully themed rooms: the Grand Ballroom, the West Wing, or the Castle Gallery. Be Our Guest offers a prix-fixe menu for lunch and dinner, giving Guests a taste of fine dining within the Magic Kingdom.

A grand dining hall with elegant chandeliers, ornate columns, and a painted sky ceiling. The room is filled with diners seated at decorated tables. Large arched windows line the walls, and festive wreaths add a holiday touch. Cozy, warm lighting enhances the ambiance.
Credit: Disney

9. California Grill – Disney’s Contemporary Resort

Perched atop Disney’s Contemporary Resort, California Grill offers sweeping views of Magic Kingdom, making it one of the best spots to watch the fireworks. The menu is inspired by the flavors of California, with an emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients. From sushi to wood-fired pizzas and perfectly cooked steaks, California Grill is a must-visit for foodies.

Don’t forget to reserve your table early, especially if you want to dine during the fireworks show!

10. ‘Ohana – Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

Known for its family-style meals, ‘Ohana at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort is a crowd-pleaser for both breakfast and dinner. During breakfast, you can enjoy a character meal with visits from Lilo, Stitch, and other Disney friends.

For dinner, the restaurant transforms into a Polynesian feast, offering endless skewers of grilled meats, noodles, and the famous bread pudding for dessert.

Jennifer Retzlaff

Jennifer became a lifelong Disney fan during her first trip to Walt Disney World in 6th grade. From that moment, Disney became a big part of her life. She quickly started to introduce her love of Disney to her family with a Disney honeymoon and then family trips when her youngest was 18 months old. She loves the magic that Disney brings to people through theme parks, cruises, and adventures. As a teacher, she tries to bring Disney magic into her classroom to help kids believe that “If You Can Dream It, You Can Do It.” She is also part of the Magic Vacation Planner team as a personal travel advisor. With this team, she can now help others plan magical vacations. She loves bringing her love to Disney to readers with How to Disney.

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