While quick service options can be great around Walt Disney World, sometimes you just want a relaxing meal at a table service restaurant. Here is a list of 10 of my favourite sit-down restaurants in Walt Disney World. Note that this list doesn’t include any signature dining restaurants or lounges; those will be on separate lists.
10. Coral Reef
Have you ever wanted to dine underwater? Well, Epcot’s Coral Reef is about as close as you can get. Surrounded by a 5.7 million gallon aquarium, this spot offers great ambience as you enjoy one of their seafood options. For those who prefer to not eat fish, while watching fish… they have many ‘land’ based items too. In fact, I find some of those superior to their seafood options. Don’t forget to order their Chocolate Wave dessert; you won’t regret it!
9. Beaches & Cream Soda Shop
Doesn’t the picture say it all? Located in Disney’s Beach Club Resort, this nostalgic diner will be sure to hit the spot. While they have many classic comfort options for dinner, such as burgers and sandwiches, the desserts here are the highlight. My go-to is always the No Way Jose sundae and an order of Cheese and Bacon Tots (Yes, I know, very healthy…).
8. Whispering Canyon Cafe
Located in Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, Whispering Canyon Cafe offers up comfort food at its finest. Their most popular options consist of all-you-care-to-enjoy skillets. Depending on which meal you are dining for, there are various skillet options. The classic dinner skillet includes various items such as beef brisket, pork ribs, citrus-herb chicken, mashed potatoes, and buttered corn. Don’t ignore breakfast here though, it’s a great experience. Also… let’s just say there are some “theatrics” with the servers at this place. You’ll have a lot of fun with the various antics and finally learn why so many hardcore Walt Disney World fans reference the line “make sure you ask for ketchup”.
7. Raglan Road
Disney Springs has many great dining options. For me, Raglan Road stands out. Offering Irish pub food, this restaurant is sure to impress. The atmosphere here gets better as the night goes on, with live entertainment lifting everyone’s spirit into the late night. Their fish & chips are a stand-out, but don’t miss out on other great options such as deep-fried scallops, Bangers + Mash, and Shepherd’s to Die for Pie!
6. Tusker House
Located in Animal Kingdom park, Tusker House is the only restaurant that made it onto this list that offers character meals throughout the entire day. With a buffet style service, this is a great option for all family members, including those who are picky and those who may want to be a bit more adventurous (some options include Moroccan-spiced beef, Berbers-marinated pork, and Cape Malay Green Curry Shrimp). Donald Duck, Mickey, and Goofy are dressed up in their safari gear, which makes for some great, unique photos!
5. Steakhouse 71
Formerly the Wave of American flavours, Steakhouse 71 has been an outstanding replacement. Located in Disney’s Contemporary Resort, Steakhouse 71 offers Breakfast, lunch, and dinner. All three dining options offer a fairly different experience. Breakfast and lunch are more casual, with dinner offering the more typical “steakhouse” atmosphere. Prices here are very reasonable for what you’re getting. You’re going to want to come back again and again. Don’t forget to order the Bacon & Eggs to start your lunch or dinner!
4. Sanaa
Once a complete hidden gem, the word has gotten out about Sanaa. Located in Kidani Village, within Animal Kingdom Lodge, Sanaa offers African cooking with Indian flavours. While not the best spot for picky eaters, there are still some safer options. The bread service offered here is one of things that keeps me coming back. Naan bread (available allergy friendly as well) served with 9 different accompaniments. Sanaa also offers a quick service style breakfast which is first-come first-serve. Be sure to book a reservation while there is still daylight so that you can get a great view of the savannah animals walking by!
3. ‘Ohana
Offering both breakfast and dinner within Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, ‘Ohana continues to be one of Walt Disney World’s most popular dining locations. For breakfast, enjoy an all-you-care-to-enjoy character meal with Lilo & Stitch. For dinner, enjoy starters such as Honey-Coriander Chicken Wings and the famous ‘Ohana noodles. The dinner skillet continues with wood-fired grilled teriyaki beef, spicy peel-n-eat shrimp, and grilled chicken with chimichurri sauce. Be sure to arrive hungry. Also, if you time your meal right, you may be able to see the Magic Kingdom fireworks from your table; you can request a fireworks view upon check-in!
2. Teppan Edo
Located in the Japan pavilion at Epcot’s World Showcase, Teppan Edo offers up a Teppanyaki style meal with a Disney touch! The food here is delicious. Options include various sushi, but the majority of the options focus around beef, chicken, and seafood options cooked right in front of you. These dishes are served with noodles, vegetables, and various sauces. The chefs are fantastic, putting on a little dinner show to enhance the experience. Note that unless you’re a large group, you will likely be dining with other parties.
1. Boma
What can I say about Boma… When I think of Walt Disney World dining, my mind comes directly here. Located in Jambo House at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, Boma offers Both a breakfast and dinner buffet. Each of these two meals offers a buffet experience that separates itself from other similar options around Walt Disney World. This is a great choice for those who want to try some more unique food options, without risking potentially not enjoying their dinner. There are plenty of options to suit all types of diners, but there are unique options that will tantalize your tastebuds. While you’re visiting Animal Kingdom Lodge, be sure to check-out the savannahs located around the resort! Night vision goggles may be available as well!
Wish for Magic 