Finding the perfect place to eat on your next Disney vacation can be tricky. Everyone has different opinions on what restaurants are best for food, decor, or experience, but what happens when that coveted reservation books up? Or, what do you do when that line for chicken fingers is way too long? Hopefully, this guide will help you sort through some of that digital clutter, so you do not have to worry about choosing the perfect meal ever again.
First, there are a few important things you need to understand to become a pro at Disney Dining.
There are two main types of meals that you will eat at Walt Disney World: Quick Service and Table Service.
Quick Service: These restaurants do not require a reservation. They are located at each park, and they offer a variety of options that anyone will enjoy. Some menus will feature very basic theme park food, while others may serve unique offerings that are plant-based, themed, or just downright tasty.
The easiest way to enjoy a quick-service meal is by mobile ordering on your My Disney Experience app. Simply select the restaurant you want, pick a return time, and then browse the menu for your order. Once your food is ready, you will pick it up at the window, and have a seat.
Here are a few of my favorite quick service locations:
- Connections Eatery, Future World EPCOT
- Satuli Canteen, Pandora Animal Kingdom
- Pinocchio Village Haus, Fantasyland Magic Kingdom
- Docking Bay 7, Galaxy’s Edge Hollywood Studios
Table Service: These are sit-down restaurants that require a reservation to enjoy, and this category includes character and specialty dining. These meals are are slower, more relaxed experience, but they have take a lot of time out of your vacation. Not all table service restaurants are created equal, and while they are typically more expensive than quick service, the experience can be worth it.
Within this category, you can book several types of experiences. There are many table-service restaurants with unique theming, that are more casual and on the less expensive side.
Some of my favorites in this category include:
- Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ Brunch, Disney Springs
- 50’s Prime Time Cafe, Hollywood Studios
- The Plaza Restaurant, Magic Kingdom
- Ale & Compass Breakfast, Disney’s Yacht Club
Another category in the table-service group are those character meals. This is a great way to maximize your time, especially if you are traveling with younger kids. Characters will come to your table to sign autographs and take pictures, all while you enjoy your meal. The most famous character meal is definitely Chef Mickey’s at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, but there are so many more options with much better menus to choose from.
Here are my recommendations:
- Cape May Cafe, Disney’s Beach Club Resort
- Akershus Royal Hall, World Showcase Epcot
- Storybook Dining with Snow White, Artist’s Pointe Disney Wilderness Lodge
- Winnie the Pooh Breakfast at Crystal Palace, Magic Kingdom
The last group of restaurants in the table-service family are specialty restaurants. These are upscale dining experiences with expertly crafted menus. Most of these restaurants have a dress-code, but they are sure to “adultify” your vacation. I have eaten at many of these over the years, and I have never been let down.
My personal favorites are:
- California Grill, Disney’s Contemporary Resort
- Narcoose’s, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort
- Tiffin’s, Disney’s Animal Kingdom
- Monseur Paul, World Showcase Epcot
My tips for a stress-free dining experience:
- Dining reservations for your entire vacation can be made 60 days before your vacation begins at 6:00 A.M. EST. If you want to book some of the more popular reservations, be sure to be on your computer as soon as the window opens.
- Plan the harder to get reservations (‘Ohana, Space 220, Cinderella’s Royal Table) at the end of your trip. This gives you to best chance to grab the reservations you want.
- Don’t forget to look for restaurants at Disney Springs and the Disney Resorts. There are some world-class establishments that can really elevate your vacation.
- For larger parties, plan to book two smaller reservations per restaurant. When you check-in for your meal, request tables close to eat other, and Disney is always very accommodating.
- When you book your reservations, there is a place to request certain dining restrictions or confirm any allergies.
- Do not count out snack carts. Walt Disney World is legendary for the unique and delicious snacks they offer year round. Be sure to look out for the Cheeseburger Spring Rolls and the world famous Dole Whip.
- Use a travel agent, DUH. At Second Star Wishes, we can handle all of this for you. Plus, we continually check for reservations in case we miss one on the original booking date. We also have recommendations for certain dietary restrictions that we are happy to provide all our clients.
