Top Dining Spots at Disney World You’ll Struggle to Reserve

Dining at Walt Disney World is an essential part of any magical vacation. With unique table-service options offering everything from incredible views to immersive character experiences, securing a reservation at popular spots is often a top priority for Disney fans. But some restaurants are harder to book than others, requiring careful planning and quick action.

Here’s your guide to Walt Disney World’s most in-demand dining reservations and tips to snag a table.

Tips for Booking Popular Disney Dining Reservations

Before diving into the list of hard-to-get reservations, it’s essential to know the basics:

• When to Book: Dining reservations open 60 days in advance on the My Disney Experience app. Be ready by 5:45 a.m. EST for the best chance at securing your desired time.
• Be Strategic: Start with the hardest-to-book restaurants and work backward through your list.
• Flexible Times: Consider less popular dining hours, such as early lunch or late dinner.
• Keep Checking: Availability can change as other guests modify plans.

Topolino’s Terrace – Disney’s Riviera Resort

Located at Disney’s Riviera Resort, Topolino’s Terrace is one of the most sought-after dining experiences at Walt Disney World. Offering breathtaking views and an upscale ambiance, this rooftop restaurant is perfect for breakfast or dinner.

• Character Breakfast: Guests are greeted by Mickey, Minnie, Donald, and Daisy in charming, artist-inspired outfits. The menu features exquisite pastries and mouthwatering entrees, making it a must-do for families.
• Dinner: In the evening, the restaurant transforms into a signature dining experience. Guests can enjoy elevated dishes and a selection of fine wines, sometimes with a view of fireworks in the distance.

Why It’s Popular: The unique character interactions, stunning views, and delectable menu make it a top choice for Disney visitors.

Space 220 – EPCOT

Dine among the stars at Space 220, located near Mission: SPACE in EPCOT. This immersive dining experience takes guests on a simulated space elevator ride, transporting them to a futuristic dining room with breathtaking views of Earth from orbit.

• Menu: Both lunch and dinner are prix fixe, featuring a three-course meal of appetizers, entrees, and desserts.
• Lounge Option: For those 21 and older, the lounge offers a more relaxed experience with à la carte options, making it an excellent choice for smaller bites and cocktails.

Why It’s Popular: The immersive space theme and one-of-a-kind experience keep this restaurant in high demand.

Be Our Guest Restaurant – Magic Kingdom

Step inside the Beast’s enchanted castle for a magical dining experience at Be Our Guest in Magic Kingdom. This Beauty and the Beast-inspired restaurant offers a chance to dine in one of three stunningly themed rooms: the Grand Ballroom, the West Wing, or the Castle Gallery.

• Prix Fixe Menu: Both lunch and dinner feature a prix fixe menu, allowing guests to sample delightful French-inspired cuisine.
• Atmosphere: Dining under the chandeliers or exploring the Beast’s mysterious West Wing adds to the magic.

Why It’s Popular: The immersive setting and opportunity to explore the Beast’s castle make this a bucket-list dining spot.

Oga’s Cantina – Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Located in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, Oga’s Cantina is more than a lounge—it’s an intergalactic adventure. This spot offers unique drinks, themed snacks, and a lively atmosphere complete with DJ R-3X spinning galactic beats.

• Signature Drinks: The creative menu features alcoholic and non-alcoholic concoctions like the Fuzzy Tauntaun and the Hyperdrive.
• Atmosphere: From the themed decor to the bustling energy, Oga’s immerses you in the Star Wars universe.

Why It’s Popular: Star Wars fans flock to Oga’s for the immersive experience and exclusive menu items.

Story Book Dining at Artist Point – Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

Meet Snow White, the Evil Queen, and the dwarfs at this whimsical dining experience at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge. The restaurant, styled like an enchanted forest, offers character interactions alongside a delicious menu.

• Menu Highlights: Dishes are artfully presented and include shared appetizers, entrees, and desserts inspired by the Snow White story.
• Character Experiences: Guests can interact with Snow White, Grumpy, and Dopey, and even pose for a photo with the Evil Queen.

Why It’s Popular: The unique character lineup and magical setting make this a standout experience.

Steakhouse 71 – Disney’s Contemporary Resort

Celebrating the opening year of Walt Disney World, Steakhouse 71 offers a nostalgic dining experience with a modern twist. Located at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, this restaurant pays homage to 1971 with decor and menu options.

• All-Day Dining: Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Steakhouse 71 is versatile and convenient for Magic Kingdom days.
• Menu Favorites: From the signature Steakhouse 71 Stack Burger to perfectly cooked steaks, the menu has something for everyone.

Why It’s Popular: The blend of Disney history and fantastic food has quickly made Steakhouse 71 a guest favorite.

Tips for Securing Tough Reservations

1. Book Early: Use the My Disney Experience app to book 60 days in advance.
2. Leverage Your Hotel Stay: Guests staying at Disney resorts can book dining for their entire trip (up to 10 days) starting at the 60-day mark.
3. Check Frequently: Cancellations happen, so keep checking for availability.
4. Set Alerts: Use services like MouseDining to get notified when reservations open up.
5. Be Flexible: Consider alternative times or dates for popular locations.

These top dining spots at Walt Disney World are worth the effort to secure. With proper planning and a bit of Disney magic, you can enjoy these unique and memorable dining experiences during your next visit. Happy planning, and good luck grabbing those reservations!