The 6 Disney Resorts with the Best Restaurants

If you think that you’ll only find typical theme park food at Walt Disney World you will be happily mistaken! While the four parks and water parks do offer more choices than pizza, burgers, and chicken nuggets, don’t overlook the resort hotels. Some of the best restaurants in Central Florida are located in the Walt Disney World resorts.

If it is full-service dining that you hope for, make a reservation. These restaurants usually fill up way in advance. A reservation will also ensure that you can park (if you drive). If you’d prefer a quick service option and are not staying at the resort and arrive by car, whether or not you’re allowed to park your car will be at the discretion of the Security Guard. We suggest taking Disney transportation if you are concerned about being allowed to park at the resort. Here is our list of the six resorts at Walt Disney World with the best restaurants.

6 – Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort

Most of the resorts on this list are in the Deluxe category, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t terrific options at the other levels. Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort is the perfect example. Toledo – Tapas, Steak & Seafood feels like a signature restaurant, but not at a signature price. It features foods with a Spanish twist. Time your meal near Harmonious, the view is incredible!

A different type of view is found at Three Bridges Bar and Grill at Villa del Lago. You’ll dine in the middle of Lago Dorado. Other dining options at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort include Rix Sports Bar & Grill and Maya Grill. There are so many dining choices that you might want to skip the theme parks and just eat.

5 – Disney’s Riviera Resort

The newest resort at Walt Disney World may not have that many dining options, but they all pack a punch! Topolino’s Terrace – Flavors of the Riviera is a signature dining experience. In the morning you’ll find familiar breakfast flavors, as well as dishes with a Mediterranean twist. Breakfast is also a popular character meal that allows Mickey, Minnie, Donald, and Daisy to show off their artistic sides. While there are no characters at dinner you will find an extensive menu with beef, seafood, pasta, and more. Primo Piatto is the main quick-service restaurant at Disney’s Riviera Resort. You can easily grab something to eat and then hop on the Disney Skyliner.

4 – Disney’s Yacht Club Resort

Located near the International Gateway Entrance to EPCOT you’ll find this relaxed, charming resort. Even if you aren’t staying there you might want to consider making a dinner reservation and taking a break from the crowds before fireworks. The signature restaurant at Disney’s Yacht Club is Yachtsman Steakhouse. You’ll find your favorite cut, and accompaniments are available.

One of the nice things about Disney’s Yacht Club is the location. It’s next door to Disney’s Beach Club, making it easy to stop by Beaches & Cream Soda Shop or Cape May Cafe. You’ll also be within walking distance (or a short Friendship ride) of Disney’s BoardWalk and the signature restaurant Flying Fish.

3 – Disney’s Contemporary Resort

They say that location is everything, and Disney’s Contemporary Resort has possibly the best location at Walt Disney World. You can walk to the Magic Kingdom! When it comes to dining, Disney’s Contemporary Resort has some delicious options. Disney’s California Grill is one of the most popular signature restaurants at Walt Disney World. The food is fresh and flavorful, and since you’ll be 15 stories up you’ll love the views of the Magic Kingdom. There are two observation decks, and when it’s time for the fireworks the soundtrack is played.

Another popular dining option at Disney’s Contemporary Resort is Chef Mickey’s. It’s an all-you-care-to-eat meal that features the Fab Five characters! A restaurant that is receives rave reviews is Steakhouse 71. The “71” stands for the year that Walt Disney World was founded. There’s more than just steak on the menu. You’ll find seafood, chicken, and the popular plant-based Vegetable “Wellington”. Save room for the signature Steakhouse 71 Chocolate Cake for dessert.

2 – Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

There’s a different type of atmosphere at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. The views aren’t of fireworks but of animals on the savanna. Grab a glass of wine from one of the lounges and watch the animals as you unwind. Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge is home to the largest collection of African wines outside of Africa. You won’t feel like you’re just miles from the most popular theme parks in the world.

Jiko – The Cooking Place is arguably the most unique signature restaurant at Walt Disney World. Even though you’re dining indoors, the colors mimic a sunset. The food is African-inspired. There is beef, chicken, and seafood, but with flavorful twists that you won’t find elsewhere.

Another popular restaurant at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge is Boma – Flavors of Africa. This is a buffet that serves breakfast and dinner. If you have never tried African cuisine this could be a perfect choice. There are some more familiar items available, and since it is a buffet you can taste a little bit of everything. Sanaa is a third restaurant that you might want to try, or maybe you would prefer The Mara. There are plenteous dining options at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge.

1 – Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

If you’re looking for the best that Walt Disney World has to offer, you’ll find it at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. Florida and Mediterranean-inspired dishes are served at Citricos. At Narcoossee’s, it’s seafood and steak. Both are signature dining experiences with amazing views. A third signature dining option, Victoria & Albert’s, will be reopening later this year. Victoria & Albert’s is not only the best restaurant at Walt Disney World, and it’s one of the best restaurants in Florida and possibly the United States.

If it isn’t fine dining that you want, you still have options. Grand Floridian Cafe is a charming Victorian-style full-service restaurant that serves all three meals. For quick service, try Gasparilla Island Grill. There’s even a popular lounge that takes theming to a new level. Enchanted Rose is inspired by “Beauty and the Beast”. Sip on an Island Rose while enjoying the Artisanal Cheese Selection. After a long day in the Magic Kingdom, it doesn’t get any better than that.