Walt Disney World Orlando 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.

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  • 1. Maria & Enzo's Ristorante

    $$$ | Disney Springs

    This complex of three restaurants is a haven of authentic Italian cuisine served up by two internationally known chefs (though the Disney "story" tells of an immigrant Italian couple who convert the Disney Springs Air Terminal into the eateries). Maria & Enzo's offers fine Italian cuisine in a sophisticated setting; neighboring Pizza Ponte has pizza by the slice, Italian pastries, and belly-filling sandwiches; Enzo's Hideaway, set in a former cast-access tunnel, serves classic dishes seldom seen in Florida, like fried artichokes and house-cured antipasti.

    The Landing, Walt Disney World, Florida, 32830, USA
    407-560–8466

    Known For

    • Authentic Roman and southern Italian cuisine
    • Some of the best steaks in Orlando
    • Whimsical and detail-rich atmospheres
  • 2. Raglan Road Irish Pub

    $$$ | Disney Springs

    If an authentic Irish pub—actually transported from the Old Country plank by plank—is your thing, Raglan Road is the place. In addition to excellent fish-and-chips and shepherd's pie, the inventive chefs twist Irish cuisine to include dishes like Gulf shrimp and risotto with buffalo mozzarella and fresh peas. The entertainment alone makes this place worth the visit. "Trad" bands play nightly, and a troupe of Irish dancers performs several times every evening and during the Rollicking Raglan Sunday Brunch. Musicians also play outside for guests dining alfresco. A store called Shop for Ireland sells Irish merchandise. Around the corner, the Raglan-affiliated Cooke's of Dublin offers fast-take fish-and-chips, pies, and deep-fried "battered burgers."

    The Landing, Walt Disney World, Florida, 32830, USA
    407-938–0300

    Known For

    • First-rate dining and special chef-driven events
    • Extensive beer and ale selections, including exclusive brews
    • Nightly, sometimes hourly, entertainment
  • 3. Sanaa

    $$$ | Animal Kingdom Resort Area

    Most of the flavors are from India, yet Sanaa is really a celebration of the Spice Islands—locales off the coast of Africa that, for centuries, enticed traders from the world's corners. Exotic yet approachable lunches and dinners make it a true find on the outer edges of the Disney empire; views of zebras and giraffes on the savanna right out the picture windows are another draw. Potato-pea samosas are good starters. For the main course, try the tandoori chicken or the potjie-inspired meal, a bowl with a mix of a protein and unique base. This is the only sit-down restaurant open for lunch at the Animal Kingdom Lodge. There is a reservations-only Dine with an Animal Specialist program consisting of a four-course meal and fascinating company.

    3701 W. Osceola Pkwy., Walt Disney World, Florida, 32830, USA
    407-989–3463

    Known For

    • Surprising combinations of African and Indian flavors
    • Indian-style bread service
    • African-inspired breakfast
  • 4. Satu'li Canteen

    $$ | Animal Kingdom

    Situated in the heart of Pandora, Satu'li walks a line between fast-casual and fine dining with counter service and surprisingly sophisticated, internationally inspired dishes. The menu features grain bowls with fresh-cooked ingredients and kids' meals that are actually nutritious.

    Pandora -- The World of Avatar, Walt Disney World, Florida, 32830, USA
    407-939–1947

    Known For

    • Grain bowls
    • Fresh-cooked, high-quality chicken, beef, and tofu
    • Phone-app ordering eliminates waiting
  • 5. Baseline Tap House

    $$$ | Disney's Hollywood Studios

    This eatery (re)creates a downtown Los Angeles corner pub, serving California wines and craft beers. Charcuterie boards featuring California cheeses and Bavarian pretzels with fondue are snackable highlights.

    Grand Avenue, Walt Disney World, Florida, 32830, USA
    407-939–3463

    Known For

    • Urban Los Angeles feel
    • Casual snacks
    • California beers, ciders, and wines
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  • 6. Big River Grille & Brewing Works

    $$ | EPCOT Resort Area

    Strange but good brews—Rocket Red Ale, Southern Flyer Light Lager, Steamboat Pale Ale, Gadzooks Pilsner—abound at this microbrewery, where you can sip your suds inside amid giant stainless-steel tanks or outside on a lake-view patio. The menu emphasizes meat and fish, with baby back ribs dry-rubbed and topped with honey chipotle barbecue sauce, elaborate hamburgers, or blackened fish tacos. Wine and cocktails are available for the nonbeer-drinking crowd.

    2101 EPCOT Resorts Blvd., Walt Disney World, Florida, 32830, USA
    407-560–0253

    Known For

    • Massive burgers
    • Disney's only microbrewery
    • Ribs, steaks, and fish
  • 7. Chef Art Smith's Homecomin'

    $$$ | Disney Springs

    Superstar chef Art Smith, recognized by foodies for having worked for Oprah and cooked for heads of state, incorporates ingredients from nearby farms, ranches, and fisheries in this tribute to down-home Southern cooking. Having been a part of Disney's College program (he started his career with a culinary internship here), he's returned to present dishes like his famous fried chicken, deviled eggs, shrimp and grits, pork chops, fried green tomatoes, mashed potatoes, and Southern slaw. The portions are enormous, and the flavors are bold. Try the Jasper Board sampler—smoked fish dip, pimento cheese, Tasso hams, bread-and-butter pickles, candied pecans, and buttermilk crackers—for a taste of everything. Save room for the Moonshine Mash (there's a long list of cocktails) and Smith's signature hummingbird cake.

    The Landing, Walt Disney World, Florida, 32830, USA
    407-939–5277

    Known For

    • Celebrity chef Art Smith's comfort food
    • Fried chicken
    • Signature cocktails and hummingbird cake
  • 8. 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 a chocolate tart with white mousse.

    World Showcase, Walt Disney World, Florida, 32830, USA
    407-939–3463

    Known For

    • Sophisticated, classic French cuisine
    • Beef bourguignon
    • French charcuterie plate
  • 9. Chip 'n' Dale Harvest Feast at Garden Grill Restaurant

    $$$$ | EPCOT

    Family-style dinner fare is 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 beef, turkey, and a sustainable fish with trimmings, beer and wine selections, plus kiddie favorites like mac and cheese and oven-roasted chicken drumsticks.  Except for the princess meals in Norway, this is the only EPCOT restaurant that has Disney character meet and greets during meals.

    World Nature, Walt Disney World, Florida, 32830, USA
    407-939–3463

    Known For

    • Character dining
    • Unusual revolving restaurant within The Land pavilion
    • Family-style servings with beer and wine available
  • 10. 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 flatbreads, nachos, and wings to whet your appetite. The 17 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, Florida, 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
  • 11. 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!

    World Nature, Walt Disney World, Florida, 32830, USA
    407-939–3463

    Known For

    • Lobster bisque
    • Scenic aquarium views
    • Baileys almond and Jack Daniel's mousse
  • 12. 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.

    Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge, Walt Disney World, Florida, 32830, USA
    407-939–3463

    Known For

    • Vegetarian hummus spread on pita
    • Gluten-free options
    • Authentic Star Wars atmosphere
  • 13. 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, Florida, 32830, USA
    407-560–0100

    Known For

    • Hand-crafted tortillas and guacamole
    • Vegetarian options like zucchini enchiladas and mushroom tortas
    • Fun and flavorful kids' meals
  • 14. Garden Grove

    $$$$ | EPCOT

    With twinkling lights draped on its oversize, 25-foot, signature tree, this restaurant, designed to evoke New York's Central Park, specializes in character meals. Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday night, guests dine on classic American fare like prime rib while Goofy and his buddies make their rounds. Seafood buffets are featured Thursday through Sunday evening. Weekend mornings, Pluto leads the fray as families fuel up on day starters from raisin bread French toast to a create-your-own omelet station. The restaurant is open for lunch but without characters.

    1200 EPCOT Resorts Blvd., Walt Disney World, Florida, 32830, USA
    407-934–1618

    Known For

    • Character meals
    • Cedar plank–blackened salmon
    • Seafood buffet
  • 15. Garden View Tea Room

    $$$$ | Magic Kingdom Resort Area

    Disney’s Perfectly Princess Tea Party is afternoon tea at its grandest as children ages 3 to 9 enjoy the royal treatment. Dressing up is encouraged, and an early 9 am meal, featuring tea and sandwiches, is served on china plates (apple juice, peanut butter, and ham-and-cheese sandwiches for the kids; cheeses and finger sandwiches for adults). Princess Aurora (Sleeping Beauty herself) may make an appearance. Little ones receive a special Princess Aurora doll, jewelry and a tiara, a princess bag, and a photo scrapbook page—a nice parting gift considering the hefty cost ($333.64 for one adult and one child, additional children are $234.08). From noon to 4 pm daily, the space serves a traditional afternoon tea.

    4401 Floridian Way, Walt Disney World, Florida, 32830, USA
    407-939–3463

    Known For

    • Highly elegant tea for young princesses and princes and refined adults
    • Character appearances
    • House-made scones, sandwiches, and sweets

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Reservations essential
  • 16. House of Blues

    $$ | Disney Springs

    Be prepared for a soundtrack of music that's equal parts groovy, funky, and soulful as you dine on an eclectic 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.

    West Side, Walt Disney World, Florida, 32830, USA
    407-934–2583

    Known For

    • High-end burgers and Southern fare
    • Sunday gospel brunch
    • Loud background music at all times
  • 17. 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 favorite tapas and plates. 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, Florida, 32830, USA
    321-348–3211

    Known For

    • Authentic Spanish entrées and tapas
    • Fire-pit prepared paellas and steaks
    • Contemporary, multilevel design
  • 18. Mama Melrose's Ristorante Italiano

    $$$ | Disney's Hollywood Studios

    To replace the energy you've no doubt depleted by miles of theme-park walking, load up on carbs at this casual restaurant that looks like a classic San Francisco Italian eatery. Good main courses include spaghetti with meatballs and sautéed shrimp in a four-cheese sauce with pasta and vegetables. The sangria is popular. Book the Fantasmic! dinner package in advance if you want priority seating for the show.

    Grand Avenue, Walt Disney World, Florida, 32830, USA
    407-939–3463

    Known For

    • Old-fashioned Italian restaurant atmosphere
    • Fantasmic! dining package
    • Tiramisu and traditional cannoli
  • 19. Morimoto Asia

    $$$$ | Disney Springs

    There is, of course, a sushi bar at this sleek, expansive Masaharu Morimoto establishment, and the Iron Chef himself takes control of it when he's in town (about four times a year), though it's fun to watch any of the chefs at work. There's also an open kitchen and multiple dining spaces and lounges where the menu features pan-Asian favorites like Chinese duck, Korean noodles, ramen and Singaporean laksa. A quarterly omakase (chef's choice) experience, which runs $250 and requires an advance deposit, could be served by Morimoto himself. The bar runs nearly the length of a football field as it snakes from the ground floor to the top floor, where an outdoor terrace overlooks the water. There's late-night munching at the Forbidden lounge, complete with an interesting cocktail menu, a balcony, and an outdoor street food window.

    The Landing, Walt Disney World, Florida, 32830, USA
    407-939–6686

    Known For

    • High-end sushi and pan-Asian cuisine
    • Open until 1 am on weekends
    • Best views of the Disney Springs lagoon from the upstairs patio
  • 20. Paddlefish

    $$$$ | Disney Springs

    Housed in a paddleboat on Lake Buena Vista, this sophisticated seafood destination has multiple outdoor dining areas, where same-day, fresh-catch selections are presented in any number of ways, from raw bar delicacies to the traditional Gulf-shore jambalaya or the Build-Your-Own Seafood Boil. There are non-seafood dishes like filet mignon and pork chops, as well as vegetarian options. The casual rooftop bar offers views of the entire Disney Springs complex.

    The Landing, Walt Disney World, Florida, 32830, USA
    407-939–2268

    Known For

    • Freshest possible seafood from around the world
    • Casual, late-night vibe from the rooftop lounge bar
    • Raw bar and impeccably cooked dishes

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