One of the many great things about staying at Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside resort is the boat to Disney Springs where you will find dozens of dining options. But you don’t have to leave the resort to find one of the hidden gems of Disney dining – Boatwright’s Dining Hall. While most Disney restaurants require advanced reservations you’ll often find availability here on a walk-up basis. Anyone can dine at Boatwright’s but you’ll find it most convenient for those staying at Port Orleans Riverside or Port Orleans French Quarter.

boatwrights

Located along the Sassagoula River, Boatwright’s Dining Hall tells the story of a shipyard in the old south. On the walls, you’ll find various antique tools and instruments used to build the still unfinished 46 foot ship anchored from the restaurant’s ceiling. Be sure to check out the blueprints hanging on the wall – you’ll be able to imagine what this ship might have been as she made her way up and down the Mississippi River.

ship

The atmosphere here is casual and welcoming with wooden floors, a brick fireplace and lanterns. This is a good option for larger families as there are plenty of tables that seat larger parties.

dininghall

Appetizers include French Onion Soup, salads, gumbos, seafood and my personal favorite, Pirogue Platter, which has different meats and cheeses.

cheese

Entrees offer Cajun classics such as Ponchartrain pasta, shrimp and grits, voodoo chicken and jambalaya. If Cajun isn’t your thing no worries – there’s plenty of options for down home cooking including prime rib, pork chops, steak and delicious ribs.

shrimp

steak

cajin

As you would expect from any good Cajun restaurant you’ll find bread pudding and pecan pie along with crème brulee and chocolate cake.

A full bar menu is also available.

Boatwright’s is open daily for dinner. If utilizing the Disney Dining Plan this restaurant will take 1 table service entitlement per person. Reservations can be made 180 days in advance.

My name is Susan Heidenrich and I am a travel planner with Travel with the Magic. I’ve visited Walt Disney World over 20 times and I would love to help you plan your next Disney vacation. Email me at SusanH@travelwiththemagic.com and follow me on facebook for tips, tricks and information on all things Disney!