Updated: May 13, 2024
Disney Springs is much more than just a place to shop for your Minnie Mouse Ears, M&Ms with YOUR FACE ON THEM, and candles that make your house smell like Disney World.
You can also head to Disney Springs for over 50 different restaurants — some of them are actually better than the ones in the parks! (Sorry, not sorry.) In our expert opinion, there are some restaurants that are without a doubt must-try-best-meal-ever level restaurants, so if you’re feeling overwhelmed by all the choices in Disney Springs, we’ve got you!
In this post, we’ll be breaking down our restaurant ratings into some common categories to help you find what suits your craving! If you’re not sure where to eat in Disney Springs, our hope is that we’re about to make your decision a whole lot easier.
Before we dive in, though, let’s address a few things: When Downtown Disney transformed into Disney Springs, it DOUBLED the dining and retail options in the district. That was quite a few years ago now… but guess what? The dining landscape STILL keeps changing in Disney Springs.
It is, quite literally, ever-evolving. That’s why we update this guide every year — so we can keep you posted on what’s new, what’s changed, what’s improved, and what’s winning us over in big ways right now… essentially, what you don’t want to miss when it comes to dining in Disney Springs!
What’s CHANGED in Disney Springs Dining
New Eateries
Over the past few months, a couple of new dining location have joined the Disney Springs scene. eet by James Beard Award-winning chef and Food Network star Maneet Chauhan serves up modern takes on authentic Indian cuisine.
One (among many) things to love about eet is that it is a Quick Service location. Sure, that means its more easily accessible from both a time perspective (as opposed to the time it takes to dine at a full service restaurant — plus, no Advance Dining Reservation is needed) and an affordability perspective. But it is also impressive because — even though there are TONS of great Quick Service options around Disney Springs — it is rare to find such globally-inspired cuisine in Disney Springs in Counter Service fashion.
Also recently joining the lineup is Summer House on the Lake, a Table Service spot serving up California-inspired bites, including everything from pizza and pasta to fresh salads and sandwiches.
And along with it came The Cookie Bar!
The Cookie Bar is tucked inside Summer House, but you don’t need an Advance Dining Reservation there to stop in and grab a cookie or six. 😉
“TL;DR” The Best of Disney Springs Dining At-a-Glance
Hey, I get it — when it comes to dining in Disney Springs, there is a LOT to take in. If you don’t want to read about every single restaurant that made our list below, we’ve got you covered with some real crowd pleasers that everyone loves at-a-glance. Here comes the LIGHTNING ROUND:
I’m Looking For…
An Incredible Date Night
We strongly recommend the warm and welcoming Wine Bar George headed by Master Sommelier George Miliotes. (It is the only Master Sommelier-led wine bar in Florida).
Morimoto Asia by Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto and Jaleo by Chef José Andrés’ don’t disappoint, either!
Dinner Served Up with a Show
Head to Raglan Road in the evenings for live music and performances by Raglan Road’s own Irish Dancers.
Go on and enjoy the craic!
The Best of Brunch
Okay, there really isn’t a bad time of day or night to enjoy Southern comfort food at Homecomin’ by Chef Art Smith…
… but the the Rise ‘n Shine Brunch offers an especially great reason to visit on a Saturday or Sunday!
Yummy Eats for a Good Price
Earl of Sandwich is tops on our list.
But Chicken Guy! and Blaze Fast-Fire’d Pizza are also terrific options in this category!
Seriously Remarkable Quick Service
Is “seriously remarkable Quick Service” a weird thing to say?
When it comes to eet by Maneet Chaunan and The Polite Pig … not really, no.
THE. BEST. SNACKS.
Craving a spectacular cookie or cake? Don’t miss Gideon’s Bakehouse.
Stop by Salt & Straw for some ice cream flavors that you won’t forget (like Honey Lavender or Fried Chicken… REALLY). And for a classic cupcake, check out Sprinkles.
DOLE Whip Without A Park Ticket
Swirls on the Water is your stop.
Woo Hoo!
A Cool Lounge
Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar tells the tales of the travels of Jock and Indiana Jones through the decor of this uniquely themed lounge.
And Enzo’s Hideaway Tunnel Bar is located in “what were said to be rum-running tunnels,” as the story goes…
That Full List We Promised You…
Okay! Now we’re getting into the real nitty-gritty! If you’re planning to visit the BEST Food Park on Disney World property, you want to eat at the BEST restaurants, right? Well, here ya go! It’s hard to go wrong at any of these spots, but it might take you a few trips to try every one. We’ve provided this list broken into categories so you can explore some of our favorites in more detail. We’re also including some pros and cons of each location in hopes that it helps you consider what’s best for your specific group.
What’s UNDERRATED
Jaleo
Jaleo is a Spanish restaurant by Chef José Andrés and features an extensive menu of tapas that showcase traditional and contemporary Spanish cuisine, such as paella (cooked over a wood fire), hand-carved Jamon Iberico de Bellota, and wood-grilled Iberico pork.
Chef José Andrés’ has been named as one of Time Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in 2012 and 2018 as well as Humanitarian of the Year by the James Beard Foundation. He was also nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize in 2019 for disaster relief work through World Central Kitchen, the non-profit organization he founded in 2010.
PROS:
- Sharing and tasting multiple small plates
- An elegant dining experience
- Extensive wine menu
CONS:
- A pricier spot
- Portions are on the lighter side and meant to be shared
- May not be for super picky eaters
OVERALL: 9/10
Click here to read our latest review of Jaleo
Frontera Cocina
Frontera Cocina is a dining venture headed by celebrity Chef Rick Bayless — host of National Public Television’s Mexico — One Plate at a Time, winner of Top Chef Masters, and recipient of the Julia Child award.
The menu features authentic Mexican cuisine in dishes such as tacos and hand-crafted tortas, fresh guacamole, and Carnitas. Seasonal Menus are often featured as well, offering limited-time entrees, desserts, and uniquely crafted cocktails. It’s also home to one of our newly favorite desserts—the Cuatro Leches! It is a cake infused with four types of milk (coconut milk, condensed milk, evaporated milk, and whole milk). The cake is topped with whipped cream, toasted coconuts, berries, and lime zest.
PROS:
- Great atmosphere and waterfront views
- Usually easy to snag a reservation for
- Grab that Avocado Margarita without needing an EPCOT park ticket
CONS:
- Food is good, but won’t blow your mind
- More expensive than your local Mexican restaurant
- Not for people who hate spice or Mexican food
OVERALL: 8/10
Here’s our review of Frontera Cocina!
Cookes of Dublin
If you can’t get a reservation at Raglan Road, visit the Irish quick service spot known as Cookes of Dublin. Here, you can enjoy the Famous Fish and Chips and Dubliner Irish Cheese & Bacon Soup, as well as burgers, sandwiches, and desserts.
The menu isn’t super extensive, but you can get pub food that won’t take all day! But keep in mind that this isn’t the place for people who don’t like Irish food or who are looking for a light meal.
PROS:
- Pub food that won’t take all day
- Raglan Road fans who want quick food
- Comfort food
CONS:
- Lots of heavy food
- Limited menu
- Not for people who hate Irish food
OVERALL: 8/10
Here’s our review of Cookes of Dublin!
What’s AFFORDABLE
D-Luxe Burger
D-Luxe Burger is a quick-service burger joint that serves what could very well be some of the best burgers in Disney World. Choose from gourmet burger flavors like the French Onion Soup Burger, the Barbecued Burger, the Bacon and Blue Burger, and more, and grab an artisanal gelato shake with flavors like s’mores, strawberry, and cookies ‘n cream!
You can also order freshly-cut fries, and if sauce is your thing, you can choose from several house made dipping sauces for your fries! If you’re looking for a GOOD burger in Disney World, D-Luxe is the place to visit.
PROS:
- Delicious burgers that aren’t typical quick-service Disney burgers
- You’ll leave FULL
- Milkshake options
CONS:
- You have to like burgers
- Not a table service environment
- Not the healthiest menu
OVERALL: 8.5/10
Here’s our latest review of D-Luxe Burger
Earl of Sandwich
Earl of Sandwich is a popular chain restaurant that serves quick sandwiches, wraps, and salads. It’s known for being affordable, but since it’s also popular, it tends to have quite a long line. Not to mention, there is a cult following for the Holiday Sandwich (just try it, and you’ll find out why!).
There’s tons of seating, and the food is easy to take on the go, but you might also find an Earl of Sandwich in your hometown, so it’s not super unique.
PROS:
- Affordable sandwiches
- Tons of seating
- Tasty and easy to take on the go
CONS:
- Not unique to Disney World
- VERY long lines at times (but they do move fast)
- Limited to mostly sandwiches (hence the name)
OVERALL: 8/10
Check out our most recent review of Earl of Sandwich here.
Pizza Ponte
Pizza Ponte is one of a trio of restaurants connected by setting and story. Along with Maria & Enzo’s and Enzo’s Hideaway, these three restaurants serve Italian cuisine, each in their own way. Pizza Ponte offers a fast-casual component, giving visitors a chance to grab a quick slice of Sicilian pizza, a salad, or an Italian dessert pastry.
The pizza is that great, foldable New York-style pizza, but one of our new go-to’s here is the Bun Giorno. This is a Housemade Garlic-cheese Pinwheel layered with Mozzarella, Provolone, Roasted Garlic, and Parmigiano with Marinara. The bread is doughy and dense, in the best way possible. The outside has a lovely crunch from both the crispy edges of the bread and the cheese on top.
PROS:
- Solid pizza option
- Affordable
- Tasty and easy to take on the go
CONS:
- Can be kinda greasy
- Limited seating options
- Not a robust menu, if you don’t want pizza
OVERALL: 8/10
Check out our most recent review of Pizza Ponte here.
What’s POPULAR
Wine Bar George
If you’re a wine-lover, head to Wine Bar George for over 130 choices of wine and unique small plates. The restaurant is led by Master Sommelier George Miliotes, and the staff is known for their extensive wine knowledge, so if you aren’t sure what wine to choose, they will surely help you!
You can dine on small plates most times of the day, but entrees are also served between 12PM and 3PM. Some of our favorite dishes include the Saganaki on Fire and Crispy Mac & Cheese Bites!
If you’re strapped for time, stop by The Basket at Wine Bar George — their attached counter service location. Grab a sandwich and wine slushie, and be on your way!
PROS:
- You want good wine? Go to Wine Bar George
- Variety of small plates
- All of it, literally all of it
CONS:
- Entrees are not always available
- Small plate prices can add up
- Not super family-friendly
OVERALL: 10/10
Read our most recent review of Wine Bar George here!
Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’
Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ is a table service restaurant in the Landing in Disney Springs. It was created by celebrity chef Art Smith, and the menu features Southern cuisine inspired by local Florida wildlife and agriculture. On the weekends, you can even grab brunch!
Get the classic Art’s Famous Fried Chicken or go for artisan options like the Thigh High Chicken Biscuits or the Cuban Sandwich. Don’t forget to splurge on a side of Cheddar Cheese Drop Biscuits or get the pineapple-banana Hummingbird Cake!
As a popular restaurant, it’s not an easy task to snag a reservation at Homecomin’, and it’s not exactly the healthiest (or cheapest!) meal you can find in Disney Springs. Still, if you’re looking for a comforting and filling meal, this is it!
PROS:
- Pure comfort food
- Sustainable, locally sourced ingredients
- You won’t leave hungry
CONS:
- Can be pricey (Art’s Famous Fried Chicken is $32!)
- Heavy meal
- Not the easiest for reservations
OVERALL: 10/10
Click here for our review of Homecomin’!
The BOATHOUSE
The BOATHOUSE is arguably the best place to go for seafood in Disney Springs! Choose from market fresh fish, Maine Lobster Tail, Shrimp & Andouille Mac & Cheese, and treat yourself to Key Lime Pie in a Mason Jar for dessert!
Next to The BOATHOUSE are the amphicar water cruises in vintage car “boats” as well as a water taxi and retro dream boats. Follow your night of waterfront seafood dining with a 20-minute guided tour of the lake on an amphicar!
PROS:
- Amazing seafood
- Feel like you’re eating seaside
- Boat tours
CONS:
- Very expensive (but hey, it’s lobster)
- Not a quick restaurant
- Desserts are meh
OVERALL: 10/10
Check out our most recent review of The BOATHOUSE here!
What’s SURPRISING US RIGHT NOW
Terralina Crafted Italian
Terralina Crafted Italian is a more casual dining spot that’s designed to look like Italy’s famed Lake District (you know, the picturesque area of the world people like George Clooney choose to have huge houses and hang out near cause it’s gooorgeous).
Not only does this spot offer a unique brunch on the weekends (hello, Bread Pudding French Toast, we see you!), but the standard daily menu is also pretty solid. You can definitely grab some traditional Italian favorites like pasta, pizza, and chicken parmesan, but don’t pass up on some unique options, like the Italian Fries, which we LOOOOVED.
PROS:
- A menu to please everyone
- Great indoor and outdoor seating
- Usually easy to snag a reservation
CONS:
- Not a quick restaurant
- Desserts are meh
OVERALL: 10/10
Check out our most recent review of Terralina Crafted Italian here!
Pepe
Pepe features Spanish cuisine by Chef José Andrés. It includes hot and cold sandwiches on pan de cristal (a unique Spanish bread) along with Spanish sangria and more. Pepe was actually started as a food truck in 2012 in Washington, D.C. Chef Andrés has a passion for Spanish sandwiches, so that is the feature at this spot.
Pepe’s #1 seller is the Pepito Ternera! It has Flat-Iron Steak, Caramelized Onions, Cheese, Mayonnaise, and Roasted Green Peppers on Pan de Cristal.
PROS:
- Get the Jaleo Chicken Croquettes
- Celebrity Chef cuisine made approachable
- That rockin’ Pepito Ternera sandwich
CONS:
- Menu may not appeal to everyone
- Pretty pricey for a quick service
OVERALL: 9/10
Check out our most recent review of Pepe here!
YeSake
Globally-inspired street food and build-your-own Poke Bowls provide a bite (or two or three!) to eat. Specialty drinks include unique slushies in both cocktail and mocktail form, as well as seasonal sips that change throughout the year. This small location is easy to walk right past and not realize you might be missing out on one of the best snacks of your trip!
We always stop by here for a seasonal drink that is usually super creative and delicious, but we also love the staple menu item here — the Pizza Bun. Imagine the soft, pillowy Cheeseburger Pods from Satu’li Canteen, but filled with those classic pizza flavors of sausage, marinara, and cheese. Yep, we think it’s heaven, too.
PROS:
- Two words: Pizza Bun
- Lighter fare if you’re looking for something a bit healthier
- Almost never a line or a wait
CONS:
- Limited menu
- You might be looking for something “heartier”
- You could easily walk right past it
OVERALL: 8/10
Check out our most recent review of Yesake here!
What’s FAMILIAR
Polite Pig
Polite Pig is the home of modern, Florida-inspired barbecue, with wood-fired, smoked, and grilled options. Visit the Bourbon Bar to choose from over 50 different kinds of bourbon, or choose from their extensive variety of craft beers available on tap.
The Hop Salt Pretzel with beer cheese fondue is a delicious way to start your meal, followed by options like the Low & Slow Brisket, Burnt Ends BBQ Meatballs, Fried Chicken, and plenty more. On a busy day, you might find a long line to order your food, but there is plenty of space for indoor and outdoor seating.
PROS:
- Actually GOOD BBQ
- Tasty appetizers and unique side dishes
- Bourbon Bar
CONS:
- Expensive for quick service
- LONG lines
- Not for people who hate barbecue
OVERALL: 9/10
Check out our latest review of the Polite Pig!
Chicken Guy!
Chicken Guy! is Guy Fieri’s quick-service chicken restaurant, where the main feature (besides chicken, obvi) is the sauce. This restaurant offers 12 different dipping sauces to choose from! You can get saucy accouterments like Nashville Hot Honey, Chipotle Ranch, Bourbon Brown Sugar, and Buttermilk Ranch.
So, what are you actually dipping into your sauce? Grab an order of chicken tenders or try a signature chicken sandwich, and don’t forget to order fries covered in the Chicken Guy!’s signature seasoning!
PROS:
- Super Melty CHEESE!
- Picky eaters can enjoy it
- Quick service and reasonable prices
CONS:
- Not exactly adventurous
- Very limited seating
- Can have a very long line
OVERALL: 9.5/10
Here’s our latest review of Chicken Guy!
Wolfgang Puck’s Bar & Grill
Wolfgang Puck has a long history with Disney World, with the former Wolfgang Puck Cafe and Dining Room which was located in the West Side of Disney Springs, in addition to the current Wolfgang Puck Express location in the Marketplace. The Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill, however, introduced a new concept to “modernize the traditional bar and grill” while featuring many of Puck’s signature dishes and handcrafted specialty cocktails.
This scratch kitchen makes everything fresh, the beef is all prime, the seafood is all wild-caught, and the pizza is freshly tossed and cooked in a wood-fired oven.
PROS:
- The menu offers something for everyone
- Fun, open dining area
- High-quality food at reasonable prices
CONS:
- You might have a Wolfgang’s restaurant near you
- Not super kid-friendly
- Dining room can get noisy
OVERALL: 8.5/10
Here’s our latest review of Wolfgang Puck’s Bar & Grill!
What’s ENTERTAINING
Raglan Road
If you’re looking for a lively and authentic Irish pub atmosphere, look no further than Raglan Road. Not only can you catch live Irish music and dancing on select dates, but you can also choose from tasty Irish eats like fish and chips, bangers and mash, shepherd’s pie, bread pudding, and more.
Even some of the interior of Raglan Road is authentically Irish, and by that, we mean some of the bars and furniture were shipped directly from Ireland to Disney Springs. Finish off your meal with an Irish beer!
PROS:
- Live Irish music
- Authentic Irish food and atmosphere
- Actually GOOD food
CONS:
- It can get loud
- Live music isn’t daily
- You have to like Irish food
OVERALL: 9.5/10
Read our most recent review of Raglan Road here!
Splitsville
Located on the West Side of Disney Springs, Splitsville Luxury Lanes takes “bowling alley food” to a whole new level! You’ll find burgers, pizza, sushi, and more (like specialty cocktails and “Bowl Drinks”) on the menu. If you’re looking for upscale pub grub while taking in a game of bowling, this is the place for you!
And if you’re not into bowling, but still want some casual pub grub, you can head to their “secret” rooftop bar! It’s great to get away from the crowds, people watching, and, you know, relaxing during your vacation!
PROS:
- Bowl and nosh
- Fun for the whole family
- Great for those rainy days
CONS:
- Won’t find any adventurous or unique food
- Can get loud
- Might feel a bit pricey for pub grub
OVERALL: 8/10
Read our most recent review of Splitsville here!
The Edison
Inspired by The Edison venue in Los Angeles, this lavish “Industrial Gothic” -style restaurant, bar and nighttime destination is themed to a 1920s-period power plant, recalling an exuberant era of invention and imagination. Not only that, but it’s one of our favorite places to catch special events.
The food here is good, but the real stars of the show are the unique cocktails and the talented mixologists! You can participate in special events, and you’ll often find live entertainment, including dancers and musicians at night. Though Disney is a family-friendly environment, this spot tends to cater a bit more to adults after dark.
PROS:
- Live music & entertainment in the evenings
- Unique cocktails and special events
- Fun date night
CONS:
- It can get loud
- More geared toward adults
- Menu can be pricey
OVERALL: 8/10
Read our most recent review of The Edison here!
What’s SOPHISTICATED
Morimoto Asia
Morimoto Asia is located at The Landing in Disney Springs. This is Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto’s first Pan-Asian restaurant focusing on Chinese, Japanese, and Korean cuisines. The waterfront restaurant showcases selections from across the entire continent of Asia. The two-story venue features show kitchens where chefs exhibit traditions like Peking Duck Carving.
If you like unique, specialty cocktails and sushi, this spot is for you. It’s elegant, classy, and the perfect spot for a date night. And don’t pass up the chance to get the famous Morimoto Spare Ribs. These are pork ribs with cilantro covered in a hoisin sweet chili glaze.
PROS:
- Amazing sushi and cocktails
- Menu designed by an Iron Chef
- Elegant date night
CONS:
- Can be pricey
- Not for folks who don’t enjoy Asian-influenced food
OVERALL: 9/10
Read our most recent review of Morimoto Asia here!
STK
STK Orlando joins other STK locations in cities such as Miami, Los Angeles, Washington D.C. and New York with its location in Disney Springs. This modern twist on the traditional American steakhouse features sleek lounges with a DJ and rooftop dining. At approximately 14,000 square feet, the Orlando outpost is one of the largest STK locations.
This spot is known for its steaks but also serves a variety of other classic American items, such as sandwiches, burgers, chicken, and salmon.
PROS:
- Live music & entertainment in the evenings
- Unique cocktails and special events
- Great steaks
CONS:
- Super pricey
- Can feel more like a nightclub
- Vegetarians and vegans may not enjoy the experience as much
OVERALL: 7/10
Read our most recent review of STK here!
Paddlefish
Paddlefish is the result of a stem-to-stern transformation of the steamboat in Disney Springs, which was formerly known as Fulton’s Crab House. The culinary focus is on fresh seafood, chops, and steaks in a sleek, modern setting. The new space makes the most of its location on Village Lake with views of both the water and Disney Springs, which are especially enjoyable for guests seated on the rooftop lounge.
The menu boasts mostly seafood options, with some other upscale entrees as well. We’ve recently loved Paddlefish’s secret lunch specials and menus. It’s available Monday through Friday, but the servers will NOT bring up this menu. You will have to ASK for it!
PROS:
- Unique setting & waterfront dining
- Extensive seafood options
- We love a secret menu
CONS:
- Might have limited options for non-seafood eaters
- Quality has been a little or miss recently
OVERALL: 7/10
Read our most recent review of Paddlefish here!
What’s REFRESHING
Swirls on the Water
Do you love DOLE Whip? Well then, you’ll be thrilled by the Swirls on the Water! This location specializes in the iconic soft-serve treat, serving up DOLE Whip in the classic Pineapple along with other swirled flavors with a little something extra (like Habanero Lime, for instance)!
Along with flavor variations, you’ll also find DOLE Whip served in a variety of fashions! From DOLE Whip Floats to DOLE Whip Nachos (and did somebody say “DOLE Whip Flights??”), along with options to spike your DOLE Whip, this little spot on the water boasts some big offerings when it comes to this fan-favorite treat!
PROS:
- DOLE Whip without needing a park ticket
- Vegan/Vegetarian friendly options available
- Offers seasonal flavors
CONS:
- Limited snack options
- No indoor seating
- Lines can get long
OVERALL: 8.5/10
Here’s our most recent review of Swirls on the Water!
Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar
So, who is Jock Lindsey? He’s an oft-trusted pilot for Indiana Jones from the popular film franchise, and he found his waterfront hangout while searching for the Fountain of Youth with Indiana himself. Tales of the travels of Jock and Indiana are told through the decor of this uniquely themed lounge.
Cocktails and tapas are the focus of the menu, with themed drinks like the Reggie’s Revenge among the specialty beverages. Air Pirates Everything Pretzels served with house made mustard and beer cheese fondue, and Snakebite Sliders (“Why did it have to be snakes?”) are just two out of several small plates available for noshing.
PROS:
- Fun space full of Speilberg easter eggs
- Great seasonal snacks and cocktails
- Indoor and outdoor seating are available
CONS:
- Theming might be lost for folks who aren’t movie buffs
OVERALL: 10/10
Here’s our most recent review of Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar!
Coca Cola Store Rooftop Beverage Bar
This is the place to sample beverages from around the world with an “Around the World Tray,” or try out some twists on your favorite Coke beverage with the Freestyle Experience.
Fun floats (try several in a Float Tray) are also up for grabs! The Rooftop Bar also offers some terrific views of Disney World’s shopping, dining, and entertainment district.
PROS:
- Fun for the whole family
- Great views of all of Disney Springs
- Offers seasonal flavors
CONS:
- Sugar-packed sodas might not be everyone’s jam
- Can get popular in the evenings
OVERALL: 8.5/10
Here’s our most recent review of Coca Cola Store Rooftop Beverage Bar!
What’s SWEET
Gideon’s Bakehouse
Gideon’s Bakehouse is a local Orlando bakery that opened its second and flagship location in Disney Springs, and it has been a hugely popular spot ever since. They serve the most ginormous cookies you’ve probably ever seen, plus other sweet treats with special monthly offerings. You can also get a slice of cake and sip a tasty cold brew!
The inside of Gideon’s is small and the demand is high, so you’ll generally find a LONG line to enter the store. If it’s later in the day, you may find a virtual queue with a 2+ hour wait! But the cookies, the spooky vibe, and the overall theming are WORTH the wait.
PROS:
- Amazing desserts
- Rotating menu options
- Spooky theming
CONS:
- LONG WAIT
- Tiny store
- GIANT cookies and only sweet treats
OVERALL: 9/10
Click here for our latest review of Gideon’s Bakehouse!
Everglazed Donuts and Cold Brew
It’s been said that “happiness is glazed daily” at this spot which features — as the name says — donuts and cold brew coffee. But there’s more in store than the name implies. Guests can also order up offerings like sandwiches served on a sweet bun (OR you can upgrade to a griddled glazed donut bun, if preferred) and loaded fries. You can even grab a flavored milk (Fruity Pebbles, anyone?) to go along with your snack!
Everglazed offers the classic yeast doughnuts that are usually fluffy, sweet, and piled high with over-the-top toppings. You can find year-round classics and also some seasonal favorites, like the ones inspired by Girl Scout Cookie flavors!
PROS:
- Great for breakfast — or anytime!
- You can order online to save time
- Definitely sharable
CONS:
- Can be overly sweet
- Not for folks watching their gluten or blood sugar
OVERALL: 8.5/10
Click here for our latest review of Everglazed!
Salt & Straw
Salt & Straw is the newest ice cream spot in Disney Springs, serving quite possibly the funkiest ice cream flavors you will ever taste. These include Arbequina Olive Oil, Freckled Mint Chocolate Chip, Honey Lavender, and Salty Donut Guava + Cheese.
Though they do serve some typical ice cream flavors, this isn’t the best spot for picky eaters, and there’s no seating inside or outside. But still, if you want to step out of your ice cream comfort zone, head to Salt & Straw.
PROS:
- Truly unique ice cream flavors
- Incredible ice cream
- You can take a pint home!
CONS:
- Weird flavors
- No seating
- No fancy sundaes
OVERALL: 8/10
Read our latest review of Salt & Straw here!
Disney Springs Dining Tips & Tricks
Now that you’ve got a better idea of WHERE you want to eat, we have a few tips, tricks, and reminders on how to make it happen.
Advance Dining Reservations
A friendly reminder: Advance Dining Reservations open 60 days in advance. And Disney World Resort hotel guests may make reservations up to 60 days in advance plus the length of their stay up to 10 days. (So, 60 days before the first day of your stay, you can make reservations for the entire trip, even for days that are more than 60 days out.)
If dining at a specific Table Service restaurant is very important to you, be sure to be up and at ’em 60 days prior to the day you want to dine to make that Advance Dining Reservation — we explain the entire process HERE.
What’s This About OpenTable?
PSSST… I’m going to let you in on a little secret: Several popular Disney Springs area restaurants are available to book via OpenTable.com, and if you make your reservations there, you might be able to get them earlier. (For some, you can book up to a year in advance!)
Even if you aren’t interested in booking quite that early, it’s still very worth checking if you’re trying to land a reservation at, say, Raglan Road and are having trouble finding availability through the Disney World website or My Disney Experience app. You can learn more here.
Allowing for Travel Time
Now, this goes for any Table Service restaurant in Disney World for which you have an Advance Dining Reservation, but it is especially true for Disney Springs. Allow for PLENTY OF TIME for traveling to your dining destination. You don’t want to miss out on an experience you’ve been looking for simply because you didn’t leave enough time.
What is “plenty of time”? Disney’s rule of thumb is 90 minutes of travel time from one spot to another if relying on Disney World transportation. But guess what? Even if you are driving yourself, you’ll want to account for parking (which, on busy weekends, can take a serious chunk of time) and walking to your chosen restaurant. If you need more information on getting to Disney Springs, we have it here.
Looking for more restaurants ratings?! Check them out below!
- We’ve Eaten at Every Magic Kingdom Restaurant. These Are the BEST.
- We’ve Eaten at Every Disneyland Restaurant. These Are the BEST.
- We’ve Eaten at Every Restaurant in Disney’s Hollywood Studios. These Are the BEST.
- We’ve Eaten at Every Restaurant in Disney’s Animal Kingdom. These Are the BEST.
- We’ve Eaten at Every EPCOT Restaurant. These Are the BEST.
- We’ve Eaten at Every Restaurant in Disney California Adventure. These Are the Best.
- We’ve Eaten at Every Disney World Restaurant. These Are the Best.
Here’s the ULTIMATE guide to Disney Springs restaurants!
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Does this list help you decide where to eat in Disney Springs? Tell us in the comments!
Denise says
I thought Earl of Sandwich restaurant closed?
Beth Bowers says
CIty Works Eatery has the best brunch menu around, IMHO. BFF and I split the french toast (OMG) and the flatbread (OMG) and had the mimosa flight. It was all just perfect – but we also saw a lot of other options we had wanted to try, as well!
Melissa says
This is awesome! Thank you so much.
Russ A says
The Boathouse is one of our favorites. Art Smiths is another one but you’re right, it is a heavy meal and difficult to get into.
Jon says
What about Blaze? It’s my favorite.
DFB Gigi says
Hi Denise! The Earl of Sandwich at Disneyland Resort was the one that closed. The one in Disney Springs is still in operation. 🙂
Beth says
Wolfgang puck smaller restaurant on the market side was not open this year 2022 when my husband and I went in May. We used to love to have lunch there and grab a nice salad or sandwich and they had good wine also. Any word whether they are going to open anytime soon?
Ralph DeCesare says
I absolutely love Wolfgang Puck’s and am disappointed it isn’t on this list!
Pam says
Homecoming is boring…there is little flavor to most of the food I’ve had and it’s been meh all around. They could do so much more with regular southern dishes.
James Cantwell says
I don’t think it’s necessary to say as a con for restaurants something like “You have to like burgers” for a burger joint. That’s like say a con of any art museum would be that you have to like art . I could go on…
Gigi Sino says
Enzo’s Hideaway is the best food ever. It’s tucked away under the walkway bridge. It’s a hidden speakeasy. Amazing food.
jackie says
I know a lot of people love Chef Art. I just wish they offered a fried gluten free option!
D says
The gideons bake house wait is not always that bad. They told us 3 hour virtual wait it was more like hour and half. I think they say it’s more so people will just not stay and wait that long.
Adam Turnipseed says
Last May my wife and I had just drove from Atlanta to Disney for our 6th Year Anniversary and gotten there around 6 PM on a Saturday and stayed at one of the Disney Spring hotels, and got a walk-in reservation within 20 minutes at Homecoming and I was in complete shock when we got in so quickly.
One of the best restaurants we’ve ever been to in the whole Resort area and words can’t describe alone how amazing the staff were there as well. For those who want true southern cooking, this is the place to be given the GOODS in that realm if you haven’t had true southern cuisine.
Melisa says
No mention of Jaleo? Every time we’ve gone there we’ve had great service & an amazing meal, and, everyone I’ve taken there, all ages and levels of “pickiness”, has loved it.
Lisa says
City Works isn’t only exclusive to Disney Springs but it is fantastic. The seafood is much more fresh than at The Boathouse. The service is excellent and just fun. We had dinner there four times during our two week visit.
ENJOY!
JeffM says
Homecomin’ isn’t what it used to be. Believe it or not, I found the fried chicken at 50’s Prime Time Cafe far tastier! But this is the very reason why in most cases restaurant reviews are very subjective!
DFB Gigi says
The fried chicken at 50s Prime Time Café is so underrated! My family and I get it every time we visit!
Janet says
Beware the 18% tip is added to the check at Home Comin’ even for a party of two and when you get the check you won’t know that the tip has already been added in so, of course then you add your additional 25% or whatever and don’t know you’ve been scammed. Often the server will just take your credit card and swipe it on their device at the table and unless you question the amount you will never know why the total is so high so always ask to see the check.
I have always loved Home Comin ‘ but don’t appreciate feeling scammed and this is an odd practice that should be mentioned by the server if it is standard practice at their restaurant.