UPDATED May 23, 2024
Everyday we receive lots of messages from you, our awesome DFB readers, asking for restaurant suggestions and recommendations. And while we certainly have our favorites, we know that you do, too!
So when a Disney first-time visitor asked what restaurants we would recommend for their upcoming trip, we couldn’t think of a better panel of experts to ask than YOU!
When I originally put the question out on the Disney Food Blog Facebook page, I was overwhelmed by the huge and immediate response that I got! (P.S. And we update this post regularly to make sure we’re still giving you the BEST and most up-to-date recommendations!)
Let’s take a look at your recommendations for the restaurants first timers must experience on that inaugural Walt Disney World trip!
If you have other thoughts or ideas — or, better yet, stories of your favorite restaurants during a first-time visit — please share them with all of us in the comments section! More suggestions are always better!
Chef Mickey’s at Disney’s Contemporary Resort
When it comes to first-time Disney dining, the winning restaurant recommendation is, hands down, Chef Mickey’s in Disney’s Contemporary Resort. Many of you agree that anyone visiting the Most Magical Place on Earth for the very first time MUST experience a buffet that includes lots of character interaction.
Mickey Mouse!
But the suggestion is practical, too. Readers pointed out that a character dining experience offers good value for your Disney dollar (or Table Service credit on the Disney Dining Plan), with an all-you-care-to-eat buffet.
You can make your own charcuterie!
And with the addition of characters, you have a less rushed (and air-conditioned!) meet and greet opportunity that guarantees you’ll see lots of characters without waiting in long lines in the parks. And we have to make sure you know that those characters are… THE FAB FIVE!
You’ll meet them ALL!
Yep! Chef Mickey’s is the ONLY Character Meal where you’ll meet Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Goofy, and Pluto! Also, don’t forget that Chef Mickey’s is walking distance from the Magic Kingdom. This is a great place to start or end your Magic Kingdom day!
Be Our Guest Restaurant in Magic Kingdom’s New Fantasyland
Judging from the reader response, we’d say that Disney definitely hit the mark with Be Our Guest Restaurant in Magic Kingdom’s Fantasyland.
Be Our Guest Restaurant
Set in Beast’s Castle (from Disney’s animated classic, Beauty and the Beast), you can stop here for lunch or dinner. It’s worth mentioning that this restaurant used to be a counter service location for lunch and table service location for dinner; however, this changed when the parks reopened in 2020.
Now, guests need an advanced dining reservation or can try their chances at scoring a spot on the walk-up waitlist to dine here. And, alas, the counter service lunch option is gone (as is breakfast), so our caveat here is that it will absolutely cost you a very pretty penny (or TWO credits on the Disney Dining Plan) to dine here these days, and the meal is prix-fixe, featuring an appetizer and entree of the guests’ choice and a dessert platter).
Short Rib Beef Bourguignon
But if you do indeed partake, you’ll be dining in a setting like no other…
The Grand Ballroom in Be Our Guest Restaurant
The menu has a French flair and boasts dishes such as Filet Mignon, Trout Amandine, and Short Rib Beef Bourguignon.
Center-cut Filet Mignon — part of the Prix Fixe menu at Be Our Guest
But it’s the STUNNING setting that make Be Our Guest Restaurant a must-do for many guests! You’re dining in the Beast’s Castle, after all. In the Grand Ballroom replete with twinkling chandeliers, shades of gold and royal blues, and stunning windows showcasing gently falling snow, you can practically see Belle dancing with The Beast when you walk in and inevitably need a moment to take it all in. In fact, the Beast himself may stroll by your table!
The master comes out to say, “hello!”
You may also be seated in the Rose Gallery or the foreboding West Wing, where you can gaze upon the Enchanted Rose and watch the petals fall…
Enchanted Rose at Be Our Guest Restaurant
(Here’s a TIP: if at all possible, snag a table in the West Wing and keep an eye on the Prince’s portrait!)
Oh, and one more thing… did we mention that the dessert platter includes the famous GREY STUFF?!
Chocolate Tart filled with The Grey Stuff
“It’s delicious!”
Without a doubt, Be Our Guest provides an incredibly immersive and memorable dining experience, and you can read more about it here.
Click HERE for the TRUTH about dining at Be Our Guest Restaurant!
‘Ohana at Disney’s Polynesian Resort
The fan base for ‘Ohana in Disney’s Polynesian Resort came out loud and clear in support of their favorite restaurant, and we can’t help but agree!
‘Ohana at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
We heard from lots of you that a Disney World vacation isn’t complete without at least one meal here, with dinner enjoying the highest number of votes. You see, breakfast and dinner offer two distinct experiences. While both offer All-You-Care-to-Enjoy meals served family-style, Dinner presents a truly unique and tasty Polynesian-inspired feast featuring showstoppers like ‘Ohana Noodles (which sound unremarkable… UNTIL YOU TASTE THEM), Chicken Wings, Teriyaki Beef, and Spicy Peel-n-Eat Shrimp.
‘Ohana Skillet
Want more? Just ask your “cousin” (or server)! After all, ‘Ohana means FAMILY! First-time visitors will walk away with an experience that is both unique and delicious. And, don’t forget to save room for one of the best desserts at Disney — ‘Ohana Bread Pudding!
‘Ohana Bread Pudding!
But another huge reason for the ‘Ohana love is the fantastic view of Magic Kingdom fireworks that you’ll have if you happen to time your dinner reservations just right. Between that and the bread pudding, you’ll be a Disney fan for life!
But we also can’t forget the ‘Ohana Best Friends Breakfast! Mornings at ‘Ohana deliver a Character Meal featuring Lilo and Stitch, as well as Mickey and Pluto.
Mickey at ‘Ohana breakfast
Pair this with an All-You-Care-to-Enjoy breakfast feast…
Breakfast Skillets
… and you’ve got one memorable way to start your day in Disney World!
Click HERE for more about dining at ‘Ohana… day or night!
50’s Prime Time Cafe in Disney’s Hollywood Studios
You had better eat those veggies and keep your elbows off the table! While DFB readers love good eats, fantastic theming and engaging (sometimes downright cheeky) service also win big points. Many of our readers said that anyone venturing to Disney World for the first time must be sure to book a table at 50’s Prime Time Cafe.
50s Prime Time Cafe
Located at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, this table service spot serves comfort food with a hearty helping of nostalgia. Don’t forget to ask for a “TV Table” when you check in!
As for a TV table!
You see, tiny black and white TVs roll clips from old sitcoms as you feast on Meatloaf and Mashed Potatoes or Fried Chicken.
Our Spread from 50s Prime Time Cafe
And ordering a drink from Dad’s Liquor Cabinet is a way fun bonus!
Dad’s Electric Lemonade From The Tune-In Lounge
If you book a table, be sure to leave yourself plenty of time to explore all the fun decor here. It’s truly an amazing throwback to the mid-20th century. And, here’s a TIP: if you go to the restroom, be sure to note the color of the soap. After all, your “Cousin” (that’s your server) may ask to make sure you washed your hands! (If you’re a 50s Primetime newbie, be sure to read some of our favorite readers’ experiences here!)
We ate EVERYTHING at 50’s Prime Time Cafe! See it all HERE
Our favorite people over at Small World Vacations are ready to help you save time, headaches, and best of all, money, when you book your Disney trip or cruise.
(Why should you use a travel agent when you go to Disney? See what we think here! Or click here for a no obligation price quote today!)
Liberty Tree Tavern in Magic Kingdom’s Liberty Square
While some of you can’t wait to book a table with Mickey and Minnie, still others feel that the quintessential Disney dining experience is tied more to history and reliably good food. Those were the top reasons why you cited Liberty Tree Tavern in Magic Kingdom as a must-do for your first-timers dining list.
Liberty Tree Tavern
Liberty Tree offers all-you-care-to-enjoy, family-style meals for lunch and dinner. Better yet… that meal is basically THANKSGIVING ALL YEAR LONG!
A full Thanksgiving spread at Liberty Tree Tavern
The Ooey Gooey Toffee Cake is to die for…
Ooey Gooey Toffee Cake
See what I mean? And if you’re feeling like adding on something unique to drink (for an extra cost, that is) you can try a DOLE WHIP SLUSH (also known as the Tavern Punch on the menu)!
There are SO MANY reasons to love Liberty Tree Tavern, and you can see them all HERE.
Via Napoli in Epcot’s Italy
Throughout all of the many comments we received, there was another resounding suggestion: first-timers must eat somewhere in EPCOT’s World Showcase. One of your very favorite globally-inspired spots is Via Napoli in the Italy Pavilion. The scene is set with three enormous wood-burning ovens named after Italian volcanoes.
Wood-burning “Volcano” Ovens: Stromboli, Vesuvio, and Etna
But it’s what comes out of those ovens that makes a visit here truly remarkable. Via Napoli serves up some of the best pizza that we’ve had anywhere, ever (and especially at Disney!). Pizzas are thin-crust and made with imported water to better reach the dough consistency you’d experience if you were dining right in Naples, Italy.
“MEZZO SIZE, please!”
Try the Piccante Pizza, our favorite Quattro Formaggi, or one of the many other pizza options on the menu! And don’t forget to sample some of the amazing beers that they feature here!
Of course, pasta or an a ala carte entree like the scrumptious Chicken Parmesan might also be your choice.
Chicken Parm at Via Napoli
But no matter what you order…
MICKEY made of Parmesan and red pepper flakes
… it’s always served up with a lil’ bit of Disney MAGIC!
Garden Grill at EPCOT
There’s a reason you’re reading about so many Character Meals such as Garden Grill on this list of great picks for First Timers: because there isn’t much that’s more magical than a meal with friends, and that seems especially true when those friends are your hosts Chip and Dale, Mickey Mouse, and Pluto!
Garden Grill Character Signing Card
They’re also terrific choices because if you’re stressed about finding time to meet oodles of characters during your trip, you can meet several in one location!
Mickey Mouse at Garden Grill
In many cases, as it is at Garden Grill, the meals (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) are all-you-care-to-enjoy. And the food here tends to be consistently good (a rare find, in many instances).
Farmer’s Skillet at Garden Grill
And the reason why Garden Grill specifically finds its place on our list is because it’s housed in EPCOT, and overlooks one of the park’s classic attractions (Living with the Land), as the restaurant ROTATES above the ride!
See? The background is different not because YOU have moved, but because the RESTAURANT has!
All this IN ADDITION TO MICKEY! We love it, and find Garden Grill to be utterly charming year after year, and we hope you do, too.
Want to know about WHICH CHARACTERS you can meet at EVERY CHARACTER MEAL? Click HERE.
Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue at Fort Wilderness Resort
We were super excited to see that many of our readers loved and suggested the Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue Dinner Show at Pioneer Hall at Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground as a favorite for first-timers! This beloved Dinner Show made its debut on June 30, 1974 and has been delivering wonderful vacation memories to Walt Disney World guests ever since.
Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue
It’s a classic “hootenanny” that combines singing, dancing, and wacky comedy for 2 hours of family fun that will keep you rolling.
Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue
While you enjoy the entertainment, you’ll also be eating ALL YOU WANT from fried chicken (find the recipe here!), ribs, mashed potatoes, and MUCH more.
We love that fried chicken!
Grownups can also enjoy unlimited beer, wine, and sangria, and soft drinks are available, too. And be sure to save room for the awesome and delicious Strawberry Shortcake!
Strawberry Shortcake
Here’s something more that what we want you to know: There are three seating categories that guests may choose from when making their reservation. Categories 1 and 2 offer wheelchair-accessible seating. Every seat in the house offers a great view, but note that Category 3 tables have turn stools where you must swivel to view the show facing a different direction from your table.
Step inside Pioneer Hall!
The show takes several intermissions, though, for food service… and more eatin’! 😉 That said, we recommend seating in Category 1 or 2 to best enjoy the show, especially if you’ve never seen it before.
Learn all the ins and outs of this beloved Disney World tradition HERE!
Boma at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, and/or Tusker House at Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Sometimes at Disney, you need a little something different, and many DFB readers passionately avowed their love for the restaurants on property specializing in African flavors! But of all of them, Boma at Animal Kingdom Lodge and Tusker House at Disney’s Animal Kingdom are your favorites.
Boma is a HUGE fan-favorite!
With similar menus, you can’t go wrong by choosing one or the other of these buffet-style feasts.
Featuring African specialties like Cape Malay Green Curry Shrimp, Berbere-marinated Pork, and beautiful pastries, breads, chutneys, and spreads, you’ll find a lot to tempt your taste buds. Check out our Tusker House Review for dozens of food photos!
We could eat this mac and cheese FOR DAYS.
One point of distinction: if you’re looking for a character experience, choose Tusker House for breakfast, lunch, or dinner! Characters do not make an appearance at Boma.
He’s #1! Donald at Donald’s Dining Safari
Donald’s Dining Safari features tableside visits from Donald (of course!), Mickey, Daisy, and Goofy, all in their SAFARI BEST!
THIS is what it’s like dining at Tusker House!
Le Cellier Steakhouse in EPCOT’s Canada
Many readers agreed that a first visit to Disney World should include a stop at one of the resort’s Signature restaurants. While a few different spots were mentioned, Le Cellier Steakhouse in EPCOT’s Canada Pavilion garnered the most buzz.
Le Cellier Steakhouse in EPCOT
The steaks are terrific, the appetizers (we especially love the Canadian Cheddar Cheese Soup) are innovative and hearty, and I’m always up for the Signature Poutine and the unique varieties of the dish served here.
Cheddar Cheese Soup from Le Cellier
All of this is served up in a charmingly cozy setting, and the service is often very good here as well.
Le Cellier
One of my favorite items here is the Le Cellier Filet Mignon. But there are plenty of options to sample. Just remember, this restaurant is a signature meal — which means a hefty price tag — for both lunch and dinner.
Who’s ready for some steak?
P.S. If dessert is on your radar…
Maple Crème Brûlée
…we are big fans of the Maple Crème Brûlée!
Les Halles Bakery in EPCOT’s France
DFB loyal readers want to make sure First Timers don’t miss out on one of EPCOT’s staple Quick Service spots, Les Halles Boulangerie Patisserie.
Les Halles
Tucked into the back of EPCOT’s France pavilion is this charming bakery that is packed with truly tasty treats, both sweet and savory.
Viennoiserie Pomme
Stepping inside, you’ll often encounter a line.
Les Halles
But once you lay eyes on that beautiful bakery case, you’ll understand why!
Fraises — Strawberry Tart
It’s also a terrific stop for those who would like a gourmet coffee or glass of French wine. Check out an extensive EPCOT Les Halles Review — featuring 21 items! — here!
Cinderella’s Royal Table in Magic Kingdom
We simply can’t wrap up our list without a nod to Cinderella’s Royal Table. You simply can’t get any more iconic than Magic Kingdom’s Cinderella Castle. And , YES, there’s a restaurant in there, too!
Cinderella’s Royal Table
Personally, I think that a meal at Cinderella’s Royal Table has to be on the bucket list of every self-respecting Disney fan. How can you possibly go through your charmed Disney life without seeing inside those walls?
Inside Cinderella’s Royal Table
Cinderella’s Royal Table also just so happens to be a Character Meal — a BIG plus for us. While you enjoy your meal, Cinderella’s princess friends meet and greet and take pictures and offer autographs.
Aurora at Cinderella’s Royal Table
And who are these friends, you ask? Well, the present Royalty may vary, but we’re talking about the likes of Ariel, Aurora, Jasmine, and Snow White!
Snow White at Cinderella’s Royal Table
(Cinderella herself doesn’t actually mingle, but you have a chance to meet and have your photo taken with her before you’re seated.)
Cinderella at Cinderella’s Royal Table
In the past, the food here was considered largely overpriced and forgettable. But in the last few years, that has changed a little. We’re seeing more updates to the breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus as chefs are steered by seasonal ingredients and hot food trends.
Parisian Gnocchi at Cinderella’s Royal Table
And breakfast has been the sweet spot here for a long time — especially the Pastries and the Stuffed French Toast, which changes up now and then.
Breakfast at Cinderella’s Royal Table
The characters and ambiance are still the big draw. But chances are nowadays, you’ll enjoy your meal here as well.
It truly is a royal experience, and we’ve got several TIPS for your Cinderella’s Royal Table experience here! We also have tips to landing a reservation this incredibly popular restaurant HERE.
Looking for the best 2024 restaurants for first time visitors? We have a list for you here!
And, Now It’s YOUR Turn to Share Your Suggestions!
So there you have it! Our DFB Readers’ suggestions for the Disney restaurants that you simply must try on your first visit to Walt Disney World! It’s a big list to be sure, so we recommend taking a few of these picks and incorporating them into your plans. Or, if you’re anything like us, just try them all!
We’d like to thank you for stopping by and making all sorts of fantastic recommendations. And while we couldn’t list them all, we really appreciate all of your input!
WE KNOW DISNEY.
YOU CAN, TOO.
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I cannot go from reading this article without recommnded a couple of places that are not only providing great food. They are also a VERY good value, especially if guests are visiting on a budget. I have a place in each park to suggest for first timers. First off, is one of my favorite places in all of WDW: FlameTree Barbecue. I’m not a ri b fan, though they do look tasty. But I NEVER miss the chance to get the half-chicken, which comes with cole slaw and baked beans (with wonderful flavor!). I always get the onion rings, too, which is simply tradition with me and those who go with me there. They’re just as wonderful. From the Magic Kingdom, I actually have two places: Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Columbia Harbour House. The Inn, with its taco salad, that my roommate NEVER gets tired of and the chicken sandwich, which is my fave, has the condiment area, including sauteed mushrooms and grilled onions. Harbour House is a wonderful change from the usual park grub. I’m currently hooked on the healthy option of grilled salmon, broccoli and couscous. From EPCOT, you cannot do better than Sunshine Seasons, with its five areas to choose a meal from, ranging from sandwiches to salads to full meals, you have more than enough choices. Just do not forget to stop by the dessert counter at the end! Finally, at Studios, I LOVE the Backlot Express, nearby Star Tours and Indiana Jones Show! I have never been disappointed by the food there. Plus, there are enough set pieces and memorablia to keep your occupied while you finish your meal. Hope this helps some of your first-timers out. Happy Disney Dreams and Meals!
I’d like to suggest Whispering Canyon at the Wilderness Lodge!
The tea room at the Grand Floridian! It is an experience like no other at Disney. It is a great break for Mom and daughter or the girls. I did it for Mothers day with my daughter.
Thank you for this list. My family will be going to Disney World for the first time in the fall and I have no clue where to go this seems to be a great list I’m so excited to try these places!
As seniors, we LOVED most of the restaurants, but our top two were Citricos and the Flying Fish. Both had fabulous service, and yummy food, beautifully plated, and desserts we are still talking about 5months later.
We’ve had great meals at the Brown Derby in Hollywood Studios. Be sure to try the grapefruit cake. Don’t forget many of the Epcot restaurants if you are willing to try food native to other countries. Germany is great and you will be entertained by the German live music. Last year we returned to the Coral Reef restaurant and while a little disappointed in what we felt was a limited menu, the food was good and it was fun to watch the fish swim by in the huge aquarium. And don’t forget Tony’s on Main St. in the Magic Kingdom. It’s good place to have a late afternoon lunch and watch the parade.
Our family never misses the Biergarten in EPCOT’s Germany pavilion! It is great for larger families and they offer something tasty for even the pickiest eaters. The kids love to get out on the dance floor for some German-style dancing and might even do “The Chicken Dance.” We also love to get a dinner reservation around 7:30 and head out for a great viewing area for the EPCOT fireworks. We have ended our WDW vacation like this and I think we had a permanent smile on our faces for weeks!
Looking for affordable options. Going on a tight budget.. We are fine with quick service like food if need be.. I don’t want to pay 40-50$ everytime we eat.. Is this possible? HELP if anyone has any suggestions on price breakdowns please email me at [email protected]
Am I the only person that thought Chef Mickeys was overrated? Maybe we just had a bad experience but the wait was unbelievably long, the food was not that great, the noise level was super high and the character interaction was not that great. We had to track down Minnie Mouse because she never made it to our table. We have been to Disney twice and done nearly every character mean and both of our kids, now 9 and 14, agree that the only one they really want to do again and again is the Garden Grill at Epcot. Food is amazing, it’s all you can eat but they bring it to you rather than you having to get up over and over, the restaurant spins, and you get to meet Chip and Dale along with Mickey and Pluto. Even my husband loves it there. It’s even better if you go on the Behind the Seeds tour first. Apart from that I agree with everything else on the list. Liberty Tree in particular is a wonderful place to eat.
I absolutely LOVE Coral Reef in Epcot, which has an amazing aquarium view of the aquarium from The Seas with Nemo and Friends. Also, there’s NOTHING like eating at Cinderella’s Royal Table. How could you go wrong eating in Cinderella’s Castle???
Jenny, I would suggest getting the disney dining plan. It will allow you to budget, but also you don’t have to worry about how much a sit down entree costs. Drinks are included with the quick service meal and sit down. Plus you get refillable mug. You can also arrange through a grocer like garden grocer to have water or other items delivered to your room. It makes a huge difference.
Another option for a morning character breakfast is Cape May Cafe, located at the Beach Club Resort. I’ve never been to Chef Mickey’s and tried to get reservation there, but not successful. Luckily, Cape May Cafe doesn’t seem to book as quickly and the all-you-can-eat breakfast buffet offered lots of delicious choices. We got to meet Minnie, Donald, and Goofy. All were dressed in their beach attire. It may be missing a few characters, but the food and service were great!! After we left, I didn’t feel do bummed about missing out on Chef Mickey’s. Of course, I still would like to go there since I’ve heard so many great things, I would not hesitate to book Cape May again.
Whispering Canyon Cafe, for sure, especially with kids…we also liked the Sci-Fi Dine in at the studios, and Coral Reef at Epcot…
Our first Disney Dining experience was Sci-Fi and in 1991. We have been going to Disney every other year since then and every trip, my kids and now grandkids always make sure the I have a reservation at Sci-Fi. There is no place like it. Atmosphere, burger, onion rings, YUMMY!!!
The 50’s Primetime Cafe is my family’s favorite place but it really depends who is going and at what stage in life they are at…..and the characters really adapt to whatever stage in life you are at. We went to the Cinderella dinner at 1900 and the table next to us was a mom with 3 small children. The mom was so nasty to the step sisters and Lady Tremaine. When Lady Tremaine got to our table she made fun of me for reserving this venue full of children and then insisted we get a picture together as our streaks of gray hair matched. It is one of my favorite Disney moments ever….and I loved how they made faces when you took a picture…..
We have been to Disney many times and have used the meal plan frequently. We just returned from a visit last week. We ate a Mama Melrose’s in Hollywood Studios for the first time, and it may be our new favorite. Our party ranged in age from 6 to 18 to 50 plus and all six of us we well pleased with our meal.
The Sci-Fi Drive-in theater at Hollywood Studios. That’s a favorite
And never miss it on trips to Disney. It’s a must do when we visit.
I agree with most of this list. But Chef Mickey is totally overrated. Every other character meal we have had at WDW has been amazing. Just not that one.
For first time visitors I would also recommend Sci-Fi @ Hollywood Studios.
They are all very good choices, but yiu left out the Grand Floridian Cafe. They’re fare is fairly simple but extremely delicious. The prices are very moderate and the offerings are averagely priced depending on your order. I’ve had the steak which melts in your miuth, the shrimp and grits and the pork chops. My wife and daughters always order the burger topped with lobster. The staff is very friendly and accommodating and try to take care of your every wish within reason. You also mentioned the Hoop De Do Revue. It’s a good place to go for first timers, but it seems that lately they try to rush you to eat and get out. I understand that this is a dinner show, and they have to keep a schedule, but making you force food down your throat is not all that much fun for me. The food is good, especially the strawberry short cake, but if you’re not wanting to watch a show, they offer the same food next door at the Trails End in a buffet setting which is just as good, and this usually our choice since we have an RV and stay in the campsites, or as we like to sat luxury roughing.
All first timers have to eat breakfast at Crystal Palace in Magic Kingdom. Great variety of food choice with Winnie the Pooh characters. This is a for sure for us every time we go.
Pepper’s Market at the Coronado is delicious and inexpensive. Skip the Hoop-de-doo if your budget is tight and eat at the Trail’s End restaurant instead. Same basic food. Right next door. Great atmosphere. Kids love picking out what they like to eat. Cape May Cafe at the Beach Club has a great, all-you-can-eat seafood bar. We visit Olivia’s at the Key West pretty often on our trips. For inexpensive, try the waffle sandwiches at Sleepy Hollow in Magic Kingdom.
Crystal Palace for breakfast gets my vote! I’m happy to see 50s Prime Time was already included, too. As far as Epcot goes, you can’t go wrong eating in Japan – green tea ice cream is the best food ever invented (and I say this as a serious ice cream fanatic).
I would also suggest Tony’s, the Lady and the Tramp inspired Italian Restaurant. It’s a very nice setting and the food is delicious! The waiters are very kind as well.
I really enjoy Raglan Road in Downtown Disney. The food is delicious and the ambiance is very neat expecially when the dancers are on stage.
We visit WDW annually. These are the places I always recommend to First Timers. In Magic Kingdom: Tony’s and The Crystal Palace for a sit down. Gaston’s or Casey’s for a quick bite. In Hollywood Studios: Mamma Melrose is our fave, the only place I tell people not to eat is the Commissary (blech). In Animal Kingdom: Restaurantosaurus & Tusker House for breakfast (dinner was good too, but like breakfast better) In Epcot: Coral Reef or the Garden Grill.
Wolfgang Puck Express in downtown disney for a quick service meal is the best ever! The food was fabulous!
Love Boma/Tusker House. Liberty Tree Tavern is a fav. Don’t forget Germany especially at the holiday season!!!
We went through a travel agent & we have the deluxe dining. Not going to eat breakfast and save credits for some nice places.This is where we are eating. ( glad to see some of them are on the list)
Tues: lunch @ The Wave of American Flavors, dinner @ The California Grill
Wens: lunch @ Yak & Yeti in AK, dinner @ hoop dee Doo
Thurs: lunch @ liberty tree tavern in MK, dinner @ narcoossee’s
Fri: lunch @ 50’s prime time in Hw, dinner @ brown Derby Fantasmic package
Sat: lunch @ Le Cellier, dinner @ Te Edo. Epcott
Sun: lunch @ Sci Fi in Hw, dinner @ flying fish
I’m really picky on my food, don’t like onions, peppers, just like steak with some lemon juice and nothing else. Hope I can find some yummy food.
These are our family favorites:
Epcot – Le Cellier, Biergarten, Teppan Edo, Yorkshire Country Fish Shop, Liberty Inn
HS – Sci Fi Dine-In Theater, 50’s Prime Time Cafe,
MK – Columbia Harbour House, Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn & Cafe, Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe
DTD – Rainforest Cafe, Fulton’s Crab House
Resorts – Whispering Canyon Cafe/WL, Ohana’s/Poly, 1900 Park Fare Buffet/GF
Just received this article. Very good. Over the years had been to all but 3 and those we have been to have been our favorite. We waited for a long time to get reservations for Boma and were VERY disappointed after spending $100. The waitress wasn’t mindful of us or the food she was serving us. The potstickers were dried up and cool and all the meet, except the shrimp, was charred. Some may like charred meat, but we don’t. A total ease of money for us.
Yak and yeti at animal kingdom is awesome. Love the lettuce cups.
We love Tony ‘ s restaurant in Magic Kingdom. The atmosphere is relaxed and the cuisine is delicious. Give it a try, you won’t be sorry.
I agree w/ above
My personal favorites for dining w/ small children
1. Crystal Palace
2. Sci Fi dine in
3. Raglan Rd
Trying out 50’s prime time, chef Mickey’s and Biergarten for first time in January. Wow does Be Our Guest fill up fast, with Cinderella’s Royal table closed for refurbishment- I got online to make my ADR at the moment it opened and there were no openings. Got Crystal Palace at 8 am though instead 🙂
i think Akershus Royal Banquet Hall for breakfast is the best
I feel that the first timer list would not be complete with out Crystal Palace in Magic Kingdom, Cape May Café in the Beach Club Resort, Raglan Road in Downtown. The Backlot Express Hollywood Studios is good, also Peco Bills in Magic. Epcot has 2 awesome choices Yorkshire Fish and Chips and the pastry shop in France which I cannot remember the name but the food is awesome
Just went last month for the first time as an adult. We had some fantastic meals.
Whispering Canyon (we stayed at the Wilderness Lodge, which was fantastic)
The Brown Derby / Fantasmic after-dinner show at Hollywood Studios
The Coral Reef at Epcot
Via Napoli at Epcot (Italy)
Le Cellier at Epcot (Canada)
Don’t be afraid to ask questions. We were going to be seated in the back at The Coral Reef. I asked, and they seated us right at the aquarium glass. What a fantastic view we had. The meal plan is definitely the way to go, too. Even with all the snacks and everything included, we ended up paying for a meal or two, but only because we ate a couple of meals at places that used up 2 meal credits. All in all,we had excellent eating experiences, and we’re looking forward to our next trip to WDW.
Having been to so many restaurants within the past few years, we found these restaurants to be child friendly & great food:
H.S. – 50’s Prime Time & Sci-Fi Dine Inn
M.K. – Be Our Guest..A MUST GO TO!! Crystal Palace & The Plaza (for those of you who are from NY, NJ or PA..awesome cheesesteak followed by ginormous ice cream sundaes!) For a refreshing treat, the Aloha Isle for a Dole Whip.. you won’t regret it & you will be hooked. Also if you are on the dining plan & need to be caffeinated, Starbucks is a snack!! Get your Fraps, Caps, Latts or simple cup o Joe!!
A.K. – Tusker House & Flame Tree
EPCOT – Via Napoli – Best pizza..just like in NJ & NY. If you go during Wine & Food Festival, do the different tastes from different countries. No reservations needed & inexpensive!!
Other Magical restaurants. O’Hana’s, Cape May Cafe, Wolfgang Puck Express
ENJOY!!
Raglan road is a must do for us.
I took my wife to Le Cellier for her first visit, it was so disappointing with cramped tables and hurried service we have never been back. California Grill has never let us down a great up market experience with great servers, food and views. Our new favourite is Sanaa for a total package
our family loves Mickeys Backyard BBQ ! The fun, light atmosphere makes for such a great but relaxed experience! It takes 2 table services per person but it’s an all you can eat buffet(including adult beverages)!! How can you go wrong?
Totally loved Wolfgang Pucks Express downtown. The best and fastest ever.
A trip to Disney is never complete for my kids unless they go to the Cape May Cafe character breakfast. Good food and who doesn’t love Goofey!! It’s also just a boat ride away from Epcot or Hollywood Studios. For my Daughter it has to be the princess breakfast at Akershaus in Epcot. Best bang for you buck and as many princesses as one could expect in one place. The princesses really take their time and chat you up as well.
Dinner at Boma is our favorite, followed closely by Kona Cafe. These both let you check out two of the most stunning Disney resorts (at least I expect it will be still be two of the most stunning when all that work at the Poly is done), while also sampling some of the best food Disney has to offer.
But it’s not Disney without a character meal. Two of our favorites: Chef Mickey’s for breakfast –napkin twirling for everyone! And Crystal Palace at Magic Kingdom with Winnie the Pooh.
Truthfully this early june will be my first ever visit to Disney World. I am finding all these reviews and suggestions very useful and I seriously cannot wait!:)
Biergarten is our family’s favorite. The food is great and the atmosphere of the indoor restaurant is stunning. Love the band. Chef Mickey’s is overrated. The food was blah and the bathrooms smell bad. You had to walk down two flights of stairs to reach them in some basement area of the Contemporary. You can see Mickey other places on property. I think Hollywood and Vine for breakfast and lunch is a really good value. If you have Disney Junior fans, it is a must do as they have Sofia, Doc McStuffins, Jake, and Handy Manny. The food at the lunch buffet was my favorite meal of the whole trip.
We have two girls, ages 3 & 5 and Akershus for breakfast was amazing. Great food and lots of princess time. We also enjoyed lunch at Hollywood & Vine with Disney Jr characters. Dinner at 1900 Park Fare was ok but my girls weren’t as interested in the characters. Our last night we went to The Wave at the Contemporary. My husband and I enjoyed the filet and the kids had grilled cheese on rainbow bread. We loved walking to MK from there for the parade and fireworks.
Dad’s electric lemonade looks so cool!!! I need one 🙂
Fish and chips at Rose and Crown Pub in Epcot .Well not the pub but the walk up service window outside of the pub.Best fish and chip deal at WDW.
we will be in WDW this fall during F&W – there just isn’t enough time to dine everywhere we want to. Have not ever had a meal I didn’t love anywhere in WDW … so we’ll choose some to fit inbetween F&W and hope we try many new things.
Boma’s Carrot Ginger soup is amazing – I even got the recipe and serve it often!
The recommendations above are very similar to the place we love to eat. However, Chef Mickeys is not one of them. Le Cellier used to be my very favorite, however we were packed in like sardines the last time and the food was disappointing. In the future, we will attempt to get dinner reservations at Be Our Guest. We tried Italy one year and the restaurant in Morocco the following year, and we were not fans of either. BUT We will always eat the clambake buffet at Cape May and the American food “Roast Beef sliced-in-front-of you ” buffet at 1900 Park Fare in the Grand Floridian. They are both excellent and have characters at the dinner and make your own sundaes for the kids. We wil also save two tickets and make a big birthday celebration for my husband at Narcoosees. It holds great memoris of past delicious lobster dinners with great service. We also love the Biergarten in Germany and the pub food at the Rose and Crown in EPCOT’s England for lunch. The next time we go, we will make reservations at Raglan Road and at the Chefs de France. Also, Prime Time 50’s Cafe is such a fun experience, especially if you have little ones that get to see their Dad get scolded by the server. The food is delicious and my hubby loves the meatloaf. We expect to visit in May 2017, and all this talk makes my mouth water and my tastebuds to wax nostalgic…can not wait to go again!