107 Best Restaurants in Walt Disney World Orlando, Florida

Background Illustration for Restaurants

The dining scene in Orlando was at one time epitomized by a plethora of fast-food fare, but there's been such an explosion of artisanal and locally sourced restaurants over the past five years that there are now seven local chefs and nine international celebrity chefs with James Beard Award nominations around the city. Some of the best restaurants in town can be found in resort hotels and theme-park complexes such as Disney Springs, but if you have the time, explore the local treasures beyond the resorts.

The signs of Orlando's dining progress is most evident in the last place one would look: Disney's fast-food outlets. Every eatery on Disney property offers a tempting vegetarian option, and kiddie meals come with healthful sides and drinks unless you specifically request otherwise. Chefs at Disney’s table-service restaurants consult face-to-face with guests about food allergies.

Around town, locals flock to the Ravenous Pig, the Rusty Spoon, Artisan's Table, and other gastropubs where the menu changes regularly; Luma on Park, a suave home of thoughtfully created cutting-edge meals; and any number of dining establishments competing to serve the very finest steak. Orlando's culinary blossoming began in 1995, when Disney's signature California Grill debuted, featuring farm-to-table cuisine and wonderful wines by the glass. Soon after, celebrity chefs started opening up shop. And in 2013, Disney completely revamped California Grill so it's a trendsetter once again.

Orlando's destination restaurants can be found in the theme parks, as well as in the outlying towns. Sand Lake Road is now known as Restaurant Row for its eclectic collection of worthwhile tables. Here you'll find fashionable outlets for sushi and seafood, Italian and chops, Hawaiian fusion and upscale Lebanese. Heading into the residential areas, the neighborhoods of Winter Park (actually its own city), Thornton Park, and Downtown Orlando are prime locales for chow. Scattered throughout Central Florida, low-key ethnic restaurants specialize in the fare of Turkey, India, Peru, Thailand, Vietnam—you name it. Prices in these family-owned finds are usually delightfully low.

Chef Mickey's

$$$$ | Magic Kingdom Resort Area

The fact that the Disney monorail zooms overhead right through the Contemporary Resort, and that Mickey, Minnie, or Goofy hangs around for breakfast and dinner, would be enough to make it popular, but the food here is surprisingly good. Chef Mickey's is shiny and bright, offering a breakfast and brunch that includes eggs and frittatas, a ham and beef brisket carving station, and, naturally, Mickey waffles. The family-style dinner doesn't disappoint either, with shrimp and grits, house-made macaroni and cheese, and a Mickey Mouse Dome for dessert. A large selection of specialty cocktails is available for the grown-ups, morning and evening.

Chefs de France

$$$ | EPCOT

This plush, bustling brasserie remains true to the spirit and the vision of Paul Bocuse, Gaston Lenôtre, and Roger Vergé, three of France's most famous chefs (Bocuse's son, Jerome, continues to run the restaurant). Classic escargots, a good starter, are prepared in a casserole with garlic butter; you might follow up with salmon marinated in white wine and lemon and served in a champagne sauce or grilled beef tenderloin with green peppercorn sauce; naturally, ratatouille is available, as is the occasional three-course, prix-fixe meal. Finish with your pick of a Parisian dessert.

Chip 'n' Dale Harvest Feast at Garden Grill Restaurant

$$$$ | EPCOT

Family-style meals are served here as the restaurant revolves, giving you an ever-changing backstage view of the Living with the Land boat ride. Offering quantity over quality, the restaurant serves all-you-can-eat meals with visits from Chip ’n’ Dale, Pluto, and occasionally Mickey. Typical choices include grilled beef, barbecue chicken, and seasonal veggies, plus kiddie favorites like mac and cheese. Beer and wine are available as well. Those who prefer a plant-based diet will appreciate a feast crafted just for them.  Except for the princess meals in Norway, this is the only EPCOT restaurant that has Disney character meet and greets during meals.

Recommended Fodor's Video

Cinderella's Royal Table

$$$$ | Magic Kingdom

Cinderella and other Disney princesses appear at this eatery in the castle's old mead hall, offering prix-fixe Fairyland dining as only Disney can supply. The Fairytale Breakfast offers options such as beef tenderloin and eggs and caramel apple–stuffed French toast; the Fairytale Lunch or Dinner includes entrées like spiced-crusted pork tenderloin or Parisian gnocchi. When you arrive at the Cinderella Castle, a photographer snaps a shot of your group in the lobby.  Extremely advanced reservations are required.

Fantasyland, Walt Disney World, FL, 32830, USA
407-939–3463
Known For
  • Breakfasts of everything from oatmeal to shrimp and grits
  • Character appearances
  • Distinctive medieval castle decor
Restaurant Details
Reservations essential; book as far ahead as possible

Something incorrect in this review?

Citricos

$$$$ | Magic Kingdom Resort Area

Recently updated Citricos pays homage to Mary Poppins and all things London. Kids will enjoy looking for the hidden touches from Mary Poppins Returns while adults enjoy Florida-inspired dishes such as sweet corn bisque, butter-poached mahimahi, or truffle macaroni and cheese. For dessert, the orange blossom flan is a true taste of Florida.  The Chef's Domain private dining and wine experience is great for larger groups as tables seat up to 12.

4401 Floridian Way, Walt Disney World, FL, 32830, USA
407-939–3463
Known For
  • Excellent first-course choices
  • Oak-grilled meats
  • Casually elegant atmosphere
Restaurant Details
No lunch
Reservations essential

Something incorrect in this review?

City Works Eatery and Pour House

$$ | Disney Springs

Nearly 100 beers as well as eight wines on tap provide reasons enough for Disney guests (and a fair share of Disney cast members) to frequent what's called the "ultimate sports bar." Paired with a global collection of rare, limited, and special brews are meals large enough to share, burgers big enough for one, and bar bites like nachos and wings to whet your appetite. The multitude of high-def televisions make watching live sporting events a natural in this active joint. Happy Hour specials run from 3:30 to 6 on weekdays, and there's a weekend Rock n' Roll Brunch from 10 to 3.

West Side, Walt Disney World, FL, 32830, USA
407-801–3730
Known For
  • Extensive selection of beers on tap
  • Over-the-top sports bar atmosphere
  • Discounted drinks and food during extended happy hours

Something incorrect in this review?

Connections Café

$ | EPCOT

Those looking for their Starbucks coffee will appreciate the large space and quick-moving lines at this spot to the left of Spaceship Earth when you enter EPCOT. Disney-crafted bakery items change out regularly here, with some items inspired by whichever festival is happening in the park at that time.

Connections Eatery

$ | EPCOT

With three kitchens offering a range of American-, French-, and Asian-inspired dishes, there's something for everyone at this brightly covered eatery. Picky eaters can enjoy an American burger or chicken sandwich, while those with sophisticated taste buds can savor the French Bistro Burger or an Asian-inspired salad. Disney is working on expanding its plant-based offerings, shown here in the California Burger or Niçoise-style salad. And make sure to save room for dessert. The Liège waffle and Black Forest baumkuchen (tree cake) are both delicious!

Coral Reef

$$$ | EPCOT

With stunning views of the 5.7-million-gallon aquarium, dining at Coral Reef is as entertaining as it is delicious. As you watch marine life—and sometimes scuba divers—swim by, enjoy dishes from a seasonal menu that's heavy on seafood offerings. Options might include shrimp and grits or seared mahi-mahi in a coconut and cilantro-lime sauce. This is a great option for those wanting to try upscale dining with younger kids, as they'll be able to either test new items such as lobster bisque or play it safe with grilled chicken. Plus, the aquarium is a great distraction while waiting for the food to arrive!

The Crystal Palace

$$$$ | Magic Kingdom

A lovely Victorian setting is the perfect place for the old-fashioned and lovable Winnie the Pooh and friends to greet your kids via A Buffet with Character, offered here three meals a day. Upscale goodies are served for adults while a separate children's spread features foods more appealing to them. A pre-9 am breakfast reservation is available. Request a window table for the spot to watch the Magic Kingdom parades and fireworks.

Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo

$$ | Disney's Hollywood Studios

This hangar bay transformed into a quick-service restaurant by chef Strono “Cookie” Tuggs serves out-of-this world meals. Try the braised beef stir-fry or the fried chicken tip yip with roasted vegetables. Those with egg or gluten allergies will find multiple options here, and if the line looks overwhelming, order online with the My Disney Experience app.

Dockside Diner

$ | Disney's Hollywood Studios

Specialty hot dogs such as bacon, macaroni, and cheese or a California BLTA (bacon, lettuce, tomato, and avocado) make this a great stop for quick meal. In addition to vanilla and chocolate, shakes can be made with Baileys Irish Cream and Kahlúa liqueur, while the Minute Maid Frozen Lemonade adds Tito's Handmade Vodka.

The Edison

$$$ | Disney Springs

A massive brick structure that, according to Disney lore, was the original power plant for the town of Disney Springs, houses this entertainment arena of more than a half-dozen distinct and richly themed rooms where food and drink mingle with palm readers, aerialists, contortionists, and other sideshow acts. The steampunk decor includes a massive clock in the main lobby and a dramatic, working steam engine. The daytime menu reinvents bar food like signature burgers, hawker-style lamb balls, and the whimsical candied bacon strips hung on a miniature clothesline. After 10 pm, a dress code goes in effect as the space becomes an over-21 club with dancers and a live band powering up the power plant.

The Landing, Walt Disney World, FL, 32830, USA
407-560–9288
Known For
  • Sophisticated bar food like lamb balls and candied bacon
  • Late-night club with entertainment
  • Intriguing steampunk atmosphere in a "power plant" setting
Restaurant Details
Dance club dress code after 10 pm

Something incorrect in this review?

Eight Spoon Café

$ | Animal Kingdom

Here you'll find small cups of mac 'n' cheese with or without pulled pork on top. Those looking for a true culinary adventure can try the pulled-pork jelly doughnut sandwich.

Epic Eats

$ | Disney's Hollywood Studios

The whole family will love sharing a funnel cake with strawberry or cookies 'n' cream topping. Root beer floats come traditionally or with Stoli Vanil Vodka.

Fairfax Fare

$ | Disney's Hollywood Studios

Unusual waffle bowls may not sound very California, but these tasty entrées can be a delicious meal or split as a snack for the whole group. The two soba noodle bowls are chock-full of veggies and give a welcome respite to the fried foods so often found in theme parks, while the Korean barbecue pork belly bowl is a delight. Kids will love the specialty drink with boba pearls.

Flame Tree Barbecue

$ | Animal Kingdom

This quick-service eatery is one of the park's relatively undiscovered gems; there's nothing fancy here, but you can dig into ribs, chicken, and pulled-pork sandwiches. Tables beneath intricately carved wood pavilions make great spots for a picnic, and they're not usually crowded.

Discovery Island, Walt Disney World, FL, 32830, USA
407-939–3463
Known For
  • Reasonably priced barbecue in an Animal Kingdom setting
  • Ribs-and-chicken combo
  • Variety of beer and wine
Restaurant Details
Reservations not accepted

Something incorrect in this review?

Flying Fish

$$$$ | EPCOT Resort Area

One of Disney World's finest restaurants—a high-ticket night out that's worth the price—has a menu heavy on seasonal seafood as well as steaks. Options include filet mignon, red snapper, and sea bass, as well as exotic fare like Verlasso salmon. Those looking for an extravagant meal can try the shrimp trofie pasta with shrimp, lobster, scallops, clams, and mussels. Special chef's table menus are available by reservation. The sparkling dining room is decorated with schools of glass fish flying overhead and gold highlights everywhere. Free self-parking is available; inform the entry booth that you are dining.

2101 EPCOT Resorts Blvd., Walt Disney World, FL, 32830, USA
407-939–2359
Known For
  • Sophisticated, Disney Signature Dining Experience on the BoardWalk
  • AbracadaBAR cocktail lounge next door
  • Sophisticated kids menu
Restaurant Details
No lunch
Reservations essential

Something incorrect in this review?

Frontera Cocina

$$$$ | Disney Springs

Under the watchful eye of celebrity chef Rick Bayless, Frontera brings a sophisticated yet casual approach to classic Mexican food. Look for genuine dishes from Oaxaca and Mexico City like house-made guacamole and short-rib tacos, as well as exquisite pan-roasted Florida shrimp. The bar is a popular hangout for its craft cocktails, beers, and wines as well as daily drink specials like Margarita Mondays and Tequila Tuesdays

Town Center, Walt Disney World, FL, 32830, USA
407-560–9197
Known For
  • Handcrafted tortillas and guacamole
  • Vegetarian options like zucchini enchiladas and mushroom tortas
  • Fun and flavorful kids' meals

Something incorrect in this review?

Garden Grove

$$ | EPCOT

A 25-foot tree is draped with twinkling lights at this breakfast-only restaurant that's open Thursday through Monday. It's a great place for families to fuel up on everything from French toast to a pork roll on everything bagel.

1200 EPCOT Resorts Blvd., Walt Disney World, FL, 32830, USA
407-934–1618
Known For
  • Breakfast combos
  • Relaxing atmosphere
  • Sweet and savory breakfast
Restaurant Details
No lunch or dinner. Closed Tues. and Wed.

Something incorrect in this review?

Gaston's Tavern

$ | Magic Kingdom

If you're looking for a snack to satisfy even the most villainous of appetites, come to Gaston's Tavern. While you won't find his four dozen eggs on the menu, the warm cinnamon roll is big enough for an entire family to split, and you'll have chance to "try the grey stuff" in cupcake form. But the real star of the show—and the song—is, of course, LeFou, whose brew will have you raising a glass.

Harambe Market

$ | Animal Kingdom

Carved into the walkway leading to the Wildlife Express train, this four-station food mart offers a selection of shrimp or chicken bowls and salads. Everyone will want their own watermelon lemonade.

Hollywood & Vine

$$$$ | Disney's Hollywood Studios

Disney Channel stars come to life at this restaurant (a great choice for toddlers) through its Disney Junior Play n' Dine breakfasts. Vampirina, along with friends of Sofia the First and Doc McStuffins, are among the cheerful characters marching around the room, singing and dancing to the delight of energetic fans. During lunch and dinner Minnie takes over the dining room, offering seasonal events where she and her friends don various costumes. The buffet features entrees such as carved turkey breast or beef tenderloin, or macaroni and cheese with shrimp.

Hollywood Brown Derby

$$$$ | Disney's Hollywood Studios

At this reproduction of the famous 1940s Hollywood favorite, the walls are lined with caricatures of old-time movie stars, and the specialty is a Cobb salad, which was invented by Brown Derby founder Robert Cobb and is still tossed table-side. Waiting for a table might take a while, so as an alternative, try the outdoor lounge, where you can order appetizers and drinks. Other menu choices include filet mignon and seafood cioppino.    If you request the Fantasmic! dinner package, make a reservation for no later than two hours before the start of the show.

House of Blues

$$$ | Disney Springs

In addition the wide-ranging musical soundtrack that's equal parts groovy, funky, and soulful, the House of Blues has a menu that offers everything from ribs to shrimp and grits to a tasty chicken Caesar salad. Consider trying the Juicy Lucy, a bacon cheeseburger with jalapeño and chipotle mayo; the pulled-pork sandwiches and the cornbread are also delicious. A worthy dessert is the bourbon-white-chocolate-banana-bread pudding. Consistently popular is the Gospel Sunday Brunch, where an elaborate Southern buffet (chicken and waffles, made-to-order omelets, shrimp and crawfish étouffée, bourbon bread pudding, etc.) is served with a side of live gospel music. For a faster meal, visit the quick-service barbecue counter The Smokehouse.

Isle of Java

$ | Animal Kingdom

Be it for breakfast or a snack, stop here for a latte and danish to avoid the lines at the Starbucks on the other side of Discovery Island. In the afternoon, several tropics-inspired alcoholic beverages are available, but the ever-popular Island Cappuccino with Captain Morgan spiced rum is there all day.

Jaleo by José Andrés

$$$ | Disney Springs

Jaleo (pronounced huh-lay-oh) means "revelry," and in this contemporary and spacious setting, diners celebrate with authentic paellas cooked over a wood fire, as well as chef and humanitarian José Andrés's signature gambas al ajillo (shrimp sautéed with garlic and chili) or croquetas de pollo (Spanish chicken fritters). The extensive tapas options are perfect for taste-driving a variety of items—the Jaleo Experience prix fixe includes traditional and modern tapas, or go Jose's Way, with a larger and more elaborate selection of the chef's favorites. And remember: when you hear the bell, it’s paella time! Entire pans of paella are available for parties of eight or more with advance notice. Pick up a container of beautiful gazpacho next door at Pepe, a stationary food truck offering grab-and-go items.

West Side, Walt Disney World, FL, 32830, USA
321-348–3211
Known For
  • Authentic Spanish entrées and tapas
  • Firepit-prepared paellas and steaks
  • Contemporary, multilevel design

Something incorrect in this review?

Kimonos

$$$ | EPCOT Resort Area

Knife-wielding chefs prepare world-class sushi and sashimi, as well as other Japanese treats like soups and salads, at this sleek sushi bar, where bamboo-style floor tiles and dark teakwood furnishings set the scene. Popular items include the Dragon Roll (giant shrimp and tuna), Banzai Roll (spicy tuna, avocado, and krab), and Bagel Roll (smoked salmon, cream cheese, and cucumber). Cocktails are a draw, too, along with entertainment in the form of nightly karaoke.

1200 EPCOT Resorts Blvd., Walt Disney World, FL, 32830, USA
407-934–1609
Known For
  • Open late
  • Nightly karaoke
  • Extensive sushi menu
Restaurant Details
No lunch
Reservations not accepted

Something incorrect in this review?

Kringla Bakeri Og Kafe

$ | EPCOT

Here you can order Norwegian treats such as kringla, a pretzel-shaped pastry with toppings; lefse, a soft flatbread with cinnamon, sugar, and butter; or a troll horn, a puff pastry filled with orange-marmalade cream. Wash it all down with a Nordic draft beer or a Viking coffee—hot or Elsa style (aka frozen).

Kusafiri Coffee Shop & Bakery

$ | Animal Kingdom

On your way to Kilimanjaro Safaris in the morning, stop by this coffee shop to grab a colossal cinnamon roll or pistachio honey croissant to split while waiting in line. In the afternoon, the flatbreads are a refreshing choice to share.