Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog.
If you're a Disney foodie, then you know that the anticipation of planning your next Walt Disney World culinary adventure is just as exciting—if not sometimes more exciting—than visiting the park itself. From classic Disney-themed treats to fine dining, some spots just know how to hit the mark every single time.
So, without further ado, let's talk about the crème de la crème of Disney World restaurants. We've compiled a list of Disney World's best dining destinations that will leave you with unforgettable culinary experiences and make your trip all the more magical.
We visit Walt Disney World frequently and have the below rankings based on all of our experiences eating around the resort.
In this article:
Jiko at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge
Photo Credit: Walt Disney World.
If you're looking for exceptional African cuisine at Disney World, Jiko is the place to be. While Sanaa may be all about the bold Indian flavors, Jiko takes a more upscale approach with a fusion of traditional African, Indian, and Mediterranean cuisine.
From the cocoa-crusted venison loin to the merguez-spiced lamb shank, Jiko's signature dining menu is a feast for all your senses. And don't even get us started on their African-inspired desserts, like the Kilimanjaro (a Ghanaian dark chocolate mousse) or the malva pudding with melktert ice cream that looks like a bird's nest!
It's no wonder Jiko is one of the most highly-regarded dining destinations in Disney World. Come and taste for yourself what all the fuss is about!
Citricos at Disney's Grand Floridian
Photo Credit: Walt Disney World.
The Citricos restaurant has made a grand comeback in the summer of 2021 at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort, and it's got some fantastic surprises in store for you! Let's start with the new decor, which is simply divine. With its subtle yet elegant and whimsical nod to the beloved classic, Mary Poppins, you'll feel like you've stepped into one of Bert's chalk drawings.
Chef Andres Mendoza has cooked up a brand-new menu to tantalize your taste buds. Imagine dining under the London sky in a newly decorated dining room and being blown away by the fresh Florida cuisine infused with Mediterranean flavors. Try the house-made rigatoni in bolognese, topped with vegetables, roasted Hen of the Woods mushrooms, and a plant-based “egg yolk.” And, for meat lovers, the fork-tender oak-grilled filet mignon is sure to leave you weak in the knees.
Citricos' delectable desserts are the cherry on top of an already amazing meal. Whether you choose the apple rose or the orange blossom flan, you're in for a treat! This unforgettable dining experience at Citricos is practically perfect in every way. Trust me, you won't want to miss it!
Trattoria al Forno at Disney's BoardWalk
Photo Credit: Walt Disney World.
If you're on the hunt for some authentic Italian cuisine, Trattoria al Forno on Disney's bustling BoardWalk is the spot for you.
Get ready to take your taste buds on a journey through Italy with their spectacular menu that showcases an array of regional specialties and comforting classics. And don't even get us started on their “on stage” kitchen—it's like watching a culinary masterpiece in action!
Trattoria al Forno also boasts an extensive wine list with over 60 offerings. So, if you're ready to indulge in some mouth-watering Italian cuisine while soaking up the electric atmosphere of Disney's BoardWalk, Trattoria al Forno is the place to be.
‘Ohana at Disney's Polynesian Village Resort
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If you're lucky enough to snag a reservation at one of Walt Disney World's most popular restaurants, then get ready for a real treat at the fan-favorite ‘Ohana, located within Disney's Polynesian Village Resort.
Like the California Grill, ‘Ohana offers another blissful way to sit back and enjoy Magic Kingdom's fireworks. But at ‘Ohana, you'll be sipping on a Lapu Lapu.
The spectacular fireworks display is just a bonus to ‘Ohana's main event: its delicious all-you-care-to-enjoy dinner featuring Hawaiian-flavored cuisine. We're talking about grilled teriyaki beef, spicy peel-n-eat shrimp, grilled chicken, and the iconic cult-favorite ‘Ohana noodles that caused quite the stir when they briefly went away.
But ‘Ohana isn't just known for its mouth-watering all-you-can-eat dinner. It also serves up a family-style Character Breakfasts with beloved characters Lilo & Stitch. So, if you're looking to start your day off with some island vibes and a side of cuteness, ‘Ohana has got you covered. It's worth the hype and the hard-to-land reservations. So, get ready for a dining experience that will leave you feeling like you're on a tropical vacation!
Jungle Navigation Co LTD Skipper Canteen at Magic Kingdom
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Don't skip out on in-park Disney dining! Nestled in Magic Kingdom's Adventureland is the Skipper Canteen, based on the beloved classic ride, The Jungle Cruise. This spot is a real adventure for your taste buds!
The Skipper Canteen has exotic flare, serving up international eats that draw from Asian, South American, and African influences. Even the pickiest of eaters will find something drool-worthy on this menu! From the Hardy Har Char and Siu Pork to Skipper Dan's Dan Dan Noodles, your taste buds will be dancing with joy.
You'll be surrounded by pun-tastic jokes from your server, who just so happens to be a Jungle Cruise skipper. So, if you're ready for a culinary adventure that will leave you satisfied and entertained, head over to the Skipper Canteen. Maybe while your server is refilling your glass, they'll even drop a “backside of water” joke that will have you in stitches!
California Grill at Disney's Contemporary Resort
Photo Credit: Walt Disney World.
You may have heard that the California Grill has got the best seats in the house for Magic Kingdom's nightly fireworks show, and that's no lie. But that's not the only reason this spot made it to our top list!
Get ready to ascend to the 15th floor of the Contemporary Resort and dine with a spectacular panoramic view of the Seven Seas Lagoon and Magic Kingdom Park. It's like dining in the clouds, but with heavenly food! The three-course selection menu of market-inspired Californian cuisine is simply exquisite. From the rainbow roll and saffron risotto to the oak-fired filet of beef, they have something fabulous for every palate. Some describe the filet as some of the best steak on property!
Victoria & Albert's at Disney's Grand Floridian
Photo Credit: Walt Disney World.
No Walt Disney World “best restaurant” list is complete without the esteemed Victoria & Albert's at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. This AAA Five Diamond award-winning spot is known for its exquisite and intimate upscale dining experience.
Located just steps from the Magic Kingdom, Victoria & Albert's is the ultimate in fine dining spot at Walt Disney World, and the setting is simply awe-inspiring. Picture a grand rotunda dome in a Victorian-inspired room, reminiscent of a tranquil garden. Inspired by Queen Victoria's Jubilee Celebration, it's a feast for the eyes before you even get to the food.
Chef de Cuisine Matthew Sowers and his team deliver when it comes to the food! They've got nonstop magic up their sleeves with their modern American cuisine and source exquisite ingredients from around the world. Despite the chic surroundings, this place doesn't miss the mark regarding the food.
If you're looking for a dining experience fit for royalty (or at least, a Disney princess), Victoria & Albert's is the place to be.
Sanaa Disney's Animal Kingdom Villas
Photo Credit: Walt Disney World.
Nestled within Disney's Animal Kingdom Villas, Sanaa will offer you a dining experience that will leave you breathless. Here, you will have the chance to explore the art of African cooking infused with bold and exotic Indian flavors that will take your taste buds on a thrilling adventure. Each bite is a journey into a world of explosive tastes and vibrant spices that will leave you wanting more.
Not only will you be treated to the tantalizing combination of African and Indian flavors, but you'll also be surrounded by the awe-inspiring beauty of the sunset savanna, home to magnificent creatures like zebras, giraffes, and gazelles. It's the ultimate sensory experience that you won't find anywhere else!
But let's not forget about the real star of the show: the food. Sanaa's Zanzibari vegetable curry and potjiekos are out of this world and will leave your taste buds dancing with delight. And don't even get us started on their Indian-style bread service. It's a veritable feast for the senses, with nine different dipping accompaniments that will leave you wanting more.
If you're looking for a dining experience that's truly unforgettable, Sanaa is the place to be!
Topolino’s Terrace – Flavors of the Riviera at Disney's Riviera Resort
Photo Credit: Walt Disney World.
If you're looking for a dining experience that's a cut above the rest, you won't want to miss Topolino's Terrace – Flavors of the Riviera. Located atop Disney's Riviera Resort, this rooftop gem offers stunning views of EPCOT's fireworks that will take your breath away.
But it's not just the views that will have you swooning. Topolino's elevated French and Italian-inspired cuisine is truly a masterpiece. Satisfy your cravings with a mouthwatering array of seafood and meat dishes, savory Italian pasta, and unforgettable desserts infused with the flavors of the Mediterranean coast.
Let yourself be transported to another world as you feast your eyes on the intricate stonework and beautifully carved details of the restaurant. You'll feel like you've been whisked away to a charming village along the Riviera, making for an unforgettable and truly immersive dining experience.
And let's not forget about the character breakfast! Breakfast à la Art with Mickey and friends takes traditional Disney breakfast fare to a whole new level with a prix-fixe menu. Make sure to check out our guide to all Character Dining at Walt Disney World for more fun experiences with your favorites!
At Topolino, start off with pastries and bread, followed by quiche Gruyère with house-made pancetta, or indulge in some sour cream waffles or smoked salmon. It's no wonder it's one of our top favorite Walt Disney World restaurants. Bon appétit!
Sebastian’s Bistro at Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort
Photo Credit: Walt Disney World.
You won't believe the burst of flavor waiting for you at Sebastian's Bistro, a hidden gem! Located at Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort, this family-style eatery offers up dishes infused with rich and exotic Latin and Caribbean flavors that will leave your taste buds in a state of pure bliss. Trust us—it's the dark horse on our list that you won't want to miss.
Kick off your meal with some delectably buttery pull-apart rolls served with a side of guava butter and a fresh salad. Then, prepare for the main event: a tantalizing platter of tropical meats like citrus chicken, mojo pork with mango sambal, chili-rubbed beef with mojito relish, and baked fish with Veracruz sauce. And let's not forget about the sides! Savor every bite of cilantro rice and beans, vegetable curry, and grilled vegetables.
This is a flavor explosion you won't soon forget. And make sure to leave some room for dessert—the coconut-pineapple bread pudding with warm caramel sauce and vanilla ice cream is simply divine.
Although these restaurants are certainly some of the best, there is no shortage of others that didn't quite make the A-list. When you're strolling around the happiest place on earth, make sure to give them all a try—you may discover a new favorite! As a bonus, be sure to read our review of Disney's Hopp De Doo Revue dinner theater.
10 Forgotten Disneyland Attractions You’ll Never Get to Ride
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As Disneyland is always evolving and looking towards the future, the old sometimes has to depart to make way for the new. In our list of 10 forgotten Disneyland attractions, we'll take you through several rides from the past that no longer exist.
Top 10 Disney World Copycat Recipes
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Disney World is revered for its thrilling attractions, but it is also known for its fantastic food and snack offerings across the parks. If you're craving your favorite treat from Disney World, not to fear! You can make these at home with our Top 10 Disney World Copycat Recipe recommendations.
How Disney’s Theme Parks Are Changed Forever Following COVID
Photo Credit: Disney Dose.
While much has returned to normal at Disney's parks after the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, some changes have taken place that are here to stay. From changes to dining and mobile ordering experiences to the introduction of Genie+, see how Disney’s theme parks have been changed forever.
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I am surpised that Ohana is still ranked as high on your list. I just ate there last week and it has definitely changed for the worse. We used to make it a priority to eat there anytime we traveled into the afrea whether we aere going to any of the parks or not, now I most likely will not go back. No longer is the meat served to you on skewers by staff but brought to your table in bowls. Two things this has done is that it made the experience seem less and also the meat is not as fresh as it now sits in the kitchen. The shrimp is no longer grilled but steamed and was flavorless. Some of the shrimp were mush when we tried to peel, at a table of four we ate 8 shrimp total as they were not good. The chicken is no longer boneless skinless thighs but bone in with skin and drizzled with a chimichurri sauce. The steak was well done and also covered in a sauce. Before you would get two sauces at your table that use can use at your leisure and the meat really did not need sauce as it was fresh and juice right off the grill. The changes really limit the options as my wife used to love the grilled shrimp and chicken but couldn’t stomach eating either this time so she filled up on the noodles and potstickers, which were the only thing we requested more of. Most of the meats went to waste as nobody cared much for any of it. A $300 bill to fill up on noodles and potstickers was not a great feeling and reaffirmed that many of my beloved Disney experiences have lost their magic!
The California Grill no longer tops my list. The fabulous feasts that used to come from the stage kitchen have now been replaced by a meager prix-fix menu with 3 choices each for the mandatory 3 courses. I used to sit at the sushi counter and enjoy different types of sushi. Sometimes, the now-retired sushi chef, Yoshi Cabral, would surprise me with something not even on the menu. The fireworks view is still there. The cuisine is gone. I’ll return when it does.
Agree, sadly, with post on Ohana. Not even close to what it used to be. Bread pudding is only thing that stands the test of time.