The BEST Disney World Restaurants - Must Try Choices by Park

Calling all Disney World foodies! With over 200 restaurants to choose from, it can be overwhelming trying to decide where to eat during your magical visit. But fear not! After years of exploring the culinary delights of Disney World, I’ve curated a list of the absolute best Disney World restaurants that you won’t want to miss. From delectable desserts to mouthwatering meals, these dining experiences will truly elevate your trip to the next level. Stay tuned for my top picks!

BEST Disney World Restaurants

Looking for the best Disney World restaurants? Check out these top picks for delicious dining experiences at the happiest place on earth! Becaue there are so many amazing restaurants, I wanted to help you figure out the ones that are worth your time and money. Because, let’s be honest – the food can get expensive at Disneyworld. So whether you are using the Disney dining plan or not, these restaurants all have something extra special that make them the best disney restaurants.

For the purposes of this post, I am only going to talk about and rank table service restaurants (see my favorite quick service best places to dine at disney world here). I also will not include the best character meals as I feel like they deserve a post of their own! Besides all our Disney trip planning tips, our Plan the Best Vacation website offers tons of other helpful advice for planning family travel from Disney to best family cruises, beaches to family destinations worldwide!

Pro tip: Disney World restaurants book up fast, especially during peak seasons. Secure your reservations early to avoid missing out on your must-try dining experiences. Currently you can book Disney World restaurants as early as 60 days in advance.

best places to eat at disney world

Check out these top table service restaurants at Disney World! They are all amazing, but there is no particular order. Make sure to visit them all for a delicious dining experience. I’ll add a table of contents here so you can quickly jump to the location you are researching!

best magic kingdom restaurants

The MK is my favorite park! It gives me all the warm and fuzzy feels walking down main street, looking at the beautiful castle. There are rides galore that appeal to my entire family and make me feel like a kid again. Luckily, there are plenty of dining options for you to choose from since, if like most families, you opt to spend more than one day at this park.

Jungle Navigation Co. LTD Skipper Canteen

Welcome to the world-famous Jungle Navigation Co. LTD Skipper restaurant! This delightful restaurant is tucked away in the heart of Adventureland. Decorated with knick-knacks from river adventures, this restaurant is not only a culinary hotspot but also a one-of-a-kind dining experience. Sit back, relax, and enjoy a delicious meal served by the witty and adventurous skippers. Yep, your server will be telling you the same corney jokes they would tell on the ride!

I also find this restaurant to have some really delicious food and unique choices from the mouth-watering “Tastes Like Chicken” (because it is!) to the refreshing “Falls Family Falafel,” there’s something for every adventurous eater to enjoy. And don’t forget to save room for the legendary “Kungaloosh” dessert – a sweet treat that will leave you craving more!

Plaza Restaurant

Step back in time and dine at the charming Plaza Restaurant in Disney World! Located on Main Street USA in the Magic Kingdom, the Plaza Restaurant is the perfect spot to enjoy a delicious meal in a quaint, Victorian-style setting. This small venue fills up quickly, and I can tell you why. They offer yummy, classic food from meatloaf to potroast and more. Don’t forget to save room for dessert! You get to enjoy a Sundae, shake, or float as part of your meal!

The Crystal Palace

This delightful character meal is a favorite with our family. Not only will you find 4 friends from the hundred acres wood, but you will enjoy a really lovely buffet that will fill you up with delicious carved meats, homemade crackers, salads, and a wide assortment of desserts. If you stop by for breakfast the hashbrown casserole and french toast are amazing!

Other Magic Kingdom Dining Options:

The other choices in the Magic Kingdom that may appeal to you are:

Liberty Tree Tavern – good Thanksgiving style food with a cute colonial atmosphere
Tony’s Town Square Restaurant – food was fine; food and atmosphere were not that special
Be Our Guest Restaurant – while this was once a don’t miss for breakfast, lunch and dinner – it has become a fixed price 3 course meal that is (in my opinion) ridiculously expensive. And to be honest the food keeps going down as well. If you want to dine at this beautiful restaurant you can read more about it here. Note: The Beast no longer visits with each guest but walks through the dining room every 45 minuts or so, but does not go to each table.
Cinderella’s Royal Table – really good food, 2nd best way to meet Princesses, and great atmosphere, but WAY over priced. Might be a good idea to do once whe your kids are at the age where they will remember it, but still all into princes and princesses (8-10 years)
The Diamond Horseshoe – this restaurant is basically the exact same menu as the Liberty Tree Tavern, but served in a saloon environment
Plus don’t miss the yummy quick serve disney magic kingdom restaurants and best character meals at disney

best Hollywood Studios restaurants

Looking for the best places to eat in Hollywood Studios? Look no further! From exciting themed dining experiences to delicious snacks, Hollywood Studios has something for everyone. Whether you’re craving a gourmet meal or a quick bite to eat, this park has you covered. Check out our overview of the top restaurants in Hollywood Studios to make sure you don’t miss out on any of the tasty offerings!

Mama Melrose

Hungry for some Italian food? Look no further than this picturesque Italian restaurant tucked away in Hollywood Studios! Not only do they serve delicious traditional food, but if you book the Fantastmic Dinner Package, you’ll also get reserved seats for one of the best shows at the park. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a meal with the family or have a romantic dinner for two. And how cute is the Mickey arranged Spaghetti & Meatballs on the kids menu? Don’t miss out on this top-notch dining experience!

50's Prime Time Café Dining located in Echo Lake at Disney's Hollywood Studios

50s Prime Time Cafe

Step back in time to the 1950s with a visit to our charming restaurant near Echo Lake at Hollywood Studios! Enjoy a delicious homemade meal in a cozy atmosphere that will make you feel like you’re in your Grandma’s kitchen. With black and white TV shorts playing in the background and your waiter acting as your cousin, it’s a dining experience you won’t soon forget. Make sure to eat your veggies and mind your manners for a truly immersive experience! Don’t miss out on this fun and unique dining adventure.

The food is what keeps me coming back. Enjoy generous portions of homemade meatloaf, mouth watering roast, HUGE sundaes, a S’more treat, and even milkshakes as a drink. Trust me – you’ll have way more than you can eat!

Roundup Rodeo BBQ

Hollywood Studios newest restaurant is playful, fun, and serves finger-licking barbecue that will make you say Yeehaw! Enjoy all you care to eat food served family style. From The Prospector’s Homemade Cheddar Biscuits with Sweet Pepper Jelly to Wheezy’s Watermelon Salad the BBQ meats and sides will have you thrilled you snatched a reservation to this newest hit restaurant. We loved everything we ate and loved all the many things to look at as we ate. My kids especially enjoyed the Sporky cupcake for dessert.

Sci Fi Diner

Looking for a fun and delicious dining experience at Disney World? Look no further than the Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant! Don’t let the sci-fi movies scare you away – they’re actually a blast for the whole family. The theming is top-notch with rows of cars for seating and entertaining shorts for the kids. Plus, the food is AMAZING!

Whether you’re craving a juicy burger or a mouth-watering steak, you won’t be disappointed. And make sure to save room for the apple donut sundae – it’s a must-try!

Hollywood and Vine

Okay, I said I wasn’t going to talk about character meals, but I wanted to mention this one because it is a good value and a great way to get reserved seating for Fantasmic at the same time! Why eat at Disney Hollywood & Vine? Because where else can you dine like a star while mingling with your favorite Disney characters?

Not only does Hollywood & Vine offer delicious buffet-style dining with a variety of options for everyone in the family, but you also get to meet beloved characters like Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, and more during your meal. They offer a Disney Junior breakfast, but we prefer Minnie’s Seasonal Dining – Lunch and Dinner. You will appreciate that the character’s costumes change seasonally.

Other Hollywood Studios Dining Options:

I case you didn’t notice there are a LOT of great dining choices at Hollywood Studios. We use to plan an extra day here or eat two sit down meals for our HS day because the food options are just so good! Here are a couple other options available:

The Hollywood Brown Derby – For a more upscale dining experience, head to The Hollywood Brown Derby, a replica of the famous LA restaurant. Indulge in fine cuisine and signature cocktails in an elegant atmosphere.
Plus don’t miss the yummy quick serve best places to eat in hollywood studios and best character meals at disney

Best Epcot Restaurants

Looking for the best dining experiences at Epcot? Look no further! Epcot is home to a variety of incredible restaurants that cater to every palette. From authentic Mexican cuisine at La Hacienda de San Angel to delicious sushi at Tokyo Dining, there’s something for everyone at this Disney park. Whether you’re craving Italian, Japanese, or Moroccan cuisine, Epcot has it all. Let me hel you narrow down all the good choices!

biergarten table service buffet and a show in germany at epcot

Biergarten Restaurant

Discover a hidden gem in Epcot’s Germany Pavilion! This restaurant will transport you to a traditional Bavarian setting with its charming interior and authentic costumes. You will enjoy a traditional buffet with lots of yummy options. You will enjoy all-you-can-eat German food including salads like Bavarian Sausage Salad, breads like the amazing Pretzel Bread, Sauerbraten, Potato Dumplings, Cheese Spatzle, Pork Schnitzel, Bavarian Cheesecake, Black Forest Chocolate Cake, Apple Strudel, and more. Plus you will enjoy the delightful live music show while you dine.

Nine Dragons

Looking to try something new? Look no further than this stunning restaurant at Epcot! Our dining experience was top-notch – from the delicious food that impressed even the pickiest eaters to the beautiful decor inside and out. Even Grandma, who was hesitant to try it, couldn’t stop raving about the chicken! Make sure to catch the incredible acrobatic show out front and if you time it right, you can enjoy Illuminations from a great spot by the lake. Trust us, this place is a must-try!

San Angel Inn

As soon as you ride the Three Caballeros Ride in the Mexico Pavilion at Epcot you will want to eat here! This restaurant is tucked next to the water, by a picturesque mountain, Mayan ruins, and under quaint star lit space. The atmosphere really can’t be beat! The food is also absolutely delicious – from traditional Mexican dishes like tamales and enchiladas to refreshing margaritas, every bite and sip is sure to transport you to Mexico.

I will note prices have gone up steadily at this restaurant and they no longer offer free chips either. So I now suggest trying it once for the amazing atmosphere, but it is no longer a MUST for our family.

Akershus Royal Banquet Hall

This popular restaurant in Norway is the best way to see 4-5 Disney princesses from the convenience of your table. The best value is breakfast which is still 1 table service dining credit. You will get all you care to enjoy pastries, waffles, meats, eggs, fruit, and a scrumptious hashbrown casserole.

The lunch and dinner meals are now 2 dining credits making them a poor value for those on the dinning plan. For dinner, you will still see the same princesses, but now you will enjoy all you care to enjoy Norweigan food served to your table. Our family really enjoyed the Traditional KjØttkake: Norwegian Meatballs, chicken and dumplings, mashed potates, mac and cheese, and green beans. You will also get salad, Lefse with Cardamom-Cinnamon Butter, and an assortment of Norwegian-inspired desserts.

garden grill at epcot in disney world florida has sustainable food grown in disney greenhouses and farmer mickey character dining

Garden Grill Restaurant

Located in Epcot’s Future World, Garden Grill offers an all-you-can-eat family-style meal with fresh, sustainable ingredients grown right in Disney’s own greenhouses. From the succulent roasted turkey to the mouthwatering mac ‘n’ cheese, every dish is bursting with flavor and served in a cozy revolving dining room with views of Living with the Land attraction.

On top of the yummy food and fun rotating restaurant, it is a character meal! Your family will enjoy seeing farmer Mickey, chip & dale, and pluto as they come to your table to visit throughout your meal. Whether you come here for breakfast or lunch – we always leave with bellies full of yummy food and fun memories!

Tutto Italia

Indulge in traditional Italian dishes like homemade pasta, flavorful sauces, and decadent desserts that will transport you straight to the streets of Rome. With a cozy atmosphere and impeccable service, Tutto Italia is the perfect spot for a romantic date night or a family meal.

best dining in epcot

Chefs de France – good if you go with the traditional menu; S-L-O-W service
(temporarily closed) Restaurante Marakesh – great atmosphere, belly dancing entertainment, okay food
Coral Reef Restaurant – if you like seafood, you may like this location. The restaurant was surrounded by aquariums, but your view varied depending on your seat. Personally, I felt I overpayed for the food and ambiance. Rainforest Cafe delivers a more exciting atmosphere.
Le Cellier Steakhouse: Indulge in perfectly cooked steaks and delicious Canadian-inspired cuisine at this cozy restaurant located in the Canada Pavilion. If you are on your honeymoon or with babysitters this upscale restaurant should be on your list, but for families it is just way to expensive!
Monsieur Paul: This is another upscale, expensive restaurant for those that have time and means. Take your taste buds on a journey with exquisite French dishes at this upscale restaurant in the France Pavilion.
La Hacienda de San Angel is the second sit-down Mexican restaurant at Epcot. This one boasts water views; if you time it just right you can enjoy fireworks with dinner! They have delicious, modern Mexican food that is not your traditional tacos and fajitas. The flan and ice cream with churros were a hit with our crew.
Space 2020 Restaurant – this popular restaurant boasts the wow factor of going up into space and dining with a 360 view of space. The opninions on the food with consideration to the overpriced menu are mixed.
Rose & Crown Dining Room – this restaurant serves British fair like fish and chips, shepherd’s pie, bangers and mash, and sticky toffee pudding for dessert. It is right on the lagoon so it is a lovely option if the weather is nice or you if you time it right to see the evening fireworks. The entrees are relatively inexpensive for a table service meal making it a good optoin if the food interests you for paying out of pocket, but a poor value if using the Disney dining plan table service credit.
Teppan Edo: Enjoy a fun and interactive dining experience at this hibachi-style Japanese restaurant in the Japan Pavilion.
Via Napoli Ristorante e Pizzeria: Savor authentic Neapolitan pizzas and Italian cuisine at this popular restaurant in the Italy Pavilion.
Snag a Candlelight procession dining packa ge at the spice road table and enjoy several courses of delightful mediterranean food – from hummus and lamb sliders to harissa chicken drumettes, there’s something for everyone
Plus don’t miss the yummy quick serve best dining in epcot and best character meals at disney

best restaurants in animal kingdom

Our family loves AK! Part of it feels like a zoo a la Disney, part is like heading to Africa, then there is a confusing albeit fun Dinosaurland, and then there is the amazing Pandora area! But the park closes so early that we tend to run out of time to really sit down and eat many places. There are great quick serve animal kingdom restaurants, but just not a lot of fabulous table service meals with one exception I will describe below. So save your table service credits for one of the other parks that boasts many options or use it to visit one of the yummy Disney resort restaurants after the park closes.

tusker house donald safari character meal at animal kingdom disney world florida

Tusker House Restaurant

Have you ever wondered why Tusker House Restaurant in Disney’s Animal Kingdom is so popular? Well, besides the delicious food and vibrant atmosphere, Tusker House offers a unique dining experience where you can dine with donald, daisy, mickey, minnie, and goofy all decked out for a Safari. Whether you eat here for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, the African-inspired dishes in a buffet that looks to be in an African market.

This is one of our families absolute favorites! Make sure you get the special Jungle Juice!

Best disney resort restaurants

While not always convenient, there are some delightful resort restaurants that are true gems. Resorts that are moderate or deluxe have onsite table service restaurants. The ones that are located on the monorail, magic kingdom boat, or walking distance from Epcot are my favorite for ease of transportation!

Whispering Canyon

Looking for a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of the park? Look no further than the Whispering Canyon Cafe at the Wilderness Lodge! With a fun atmosphere and mouth watering food, this place will not disappoint. Just a quick boat ride away from the Magic Kingdom, don’t forget to explore the stunning lodge with a stream in the resort and huge fireplace with rocking chairs to relax in while you are there.

The old timey feel and unique touches like drinks served in ball canning jars and wooden horse rides for kids make this dining experience truly special. The yummy southern cooking is fabulous. And whatever you do, don’t forget to ask for ketchup – it’s part of the show!

O’Hana

If you’re a Disney lover looking for a dining experience like no other, then ‘Ohana Restaurant is definitely worth it! This Hawaiian-themed restaurant located at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort offers a delicious all-you-can-eat feast with a Polynesian flair. From grilled meats like steak, shrimp, and chicken to mouthwatering sides and desserts, your taste buds will thank you for this culinary adventure.

Not only is the food incredible, but the atmosphere at ‘Ohana is truly magical. Sit back and enjoy live entertainment and the stunning views of Seven Seas Lagoon while dining in this cozy, family-friendly restaurant.

Boma

Looking for a unique dining experience? Head over to the Animal Kingdom Lodge for an African Buffet like no other! Not only will you be surrounded by free-roaming giraffes and zebras, but you’ll also get to indulge in some exquisite food. Make sure to try the peanut soup and don’t miss out on the flavorful carved meats! And let’s not forget about the delicious Zebra Domes for dessert. It may be a bit out of the way, but trust me, it’s worth the trip! Allow yourself plenty of time to get to the resort, eat, and return to the park. Plus you will want to save time to wander around the resort and soak in the amazing atmosphere.

T-REX Dining located in Marketplace at Disney Springs

T-Rex Cafe

Are you looking for a truly ROARSOME dining experience in Disney Springs? Look no further than T-Rex Cafe! From the moment you step inside, you’ll be transported back in time to a prehistoric world filled with dinosaurs and delicious eats. There are many fun places to eat from the ice cave that changes color, by the squid (fish filled tank), by the T-rex, and more. There really isn’t a bad spot. Plus your kids will want to come back to sit somewhere else next time.

With a menu that caters to carnivores and herbivores alike, there’s something for everyone at T-Rex Cafe. Sink your teeth into juicy burgers, flavorful salads, and mouthwatering appetizers. And don’t forget to save room for one of their delectable desserts!

I suggest visiting on a non-park day so you don’t use a lot of time in transit, but the T-Rex Cafe an unforgettable experience for the whole family.

Character Meals

I would be remiss if I didn’t point you to these best character dining disney world. They not only include amazing character interactions, but each of them include amazing food served in picturesque settings like only Disney can!

Best disney restaurants

Like I mentioned above, there are over 200 restaurants at Disney World. Each has their unique flair and good food. But if you want the best-of-the-best, stick with the best Disney World Restaurants I mentioned above , but if you are looking for a quick opinion on other restaurants, I’ll give a quick commentary below. There are TONS of restaurants at Disney Spring, to be honest we don’t spend a lot of time there because I’m a play-in-the-parks kind of gal. So for now I am no help there.

best dining disney world

1900 Park Fare – returning soon with new characters, I’ll keep you posted
Hoop-de-do-Revue – fun old timy show, good food, fun experience; 2 dining credits (see full review)
Kona Cafe – interesting & varied Hawaiin inspired menu, easy to get there from Magic Kingdom on the monorail; it is in the Polynesian accessible via the monorail. Would definetly go here again!
Trails’ End Restaurant – atmosphere and service not that great; food was fine, but the buffet seemed small compared to every other one at Disney World.