Walt Disney World is often referred to as the best of the best when it comes to theme parks. Disney also takes their theme park and resort food to the next level. While great food can be found throughout the parks and resorts, a handful of restaurants have earned the “Signature Dining” tag.
Here are a few of my favorites:
If you want a spectacular view of the Magic Kingdom head over to California Grill on the 15th floor of the Contemporary Resort. While waiting for your table enjoy a cocktail on the private outdoor terrace overlooking Tomorrowland. If you are dining during the Magic Kingdom fireworks the restaurant dims the lights and pipes in the music. The food is California eclectic and ranges from sushi to flatbread pizza to fresh meats including bison and seafood including snapper and scallops. The décor is chic yet comfortable and this restaurant boasts one of the most extensive wine lists you’ll find.
For a more laid back atmosphere with a beautiful view over the water visit Narcoossee’s at the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. This restaurant is located in the octagon shaped building on the shores of Seven Seas Lagoon. Narcoossee’s offers a variety of fresh seafood with an upscale coastal theme. Entrees range from scallops to salmon to lobster. For land lovers Narcoossee’s offers a mouth watering fillet along with excellent chicken and vegetarian dishes. For the best of both worlds try the Surf and Turf. With Cinderella’s Castle right across the lagoon Narcoosee’s provides a wonderful view of the fireworks.
For a true taste of the Golden Age of Hollywood head over to The Hollywood Brown Derby at Disney’s Hollywood Studios (park entrance ticket required). This is an authentic replica of the famous Brown Derby that was once the meeting place of the stars in Hollywood and the décor includes replicas and originals of the famed caricatures of Hollywood royalty. Of course you will find the Cobb Salad on the menu, made famous at the original Brown Derby and prepared table side. Other features range from salmon to pork tenderloin to lamb. Among the fabulous desserts offered is a Grapefruit Cake, another Brown Derby original.
I’m from Texas so I know a good steak. One of my favorite steaks in the world can be found at the Yachtsman Steakhouse at the Yacht Club Resort. This is a quick boat ride for those spending the day at Epcot or Hollywood Studios. The beef here is aged in house and prepared in an oak fired oven. The décor is New England with knotty pine beams and wood floors. It’s comfortably upscale. Other offerings include seafood, chicken, cheese plates, truffle macaroni and cheese. Be sure to save room for dessert – the Yachtsman Sundae is like no other ice cream sundae you’ve ever had. As with all signature experiences the wine list here is extensive.
Following is a complete list of all Disney Signature Restaurants along with their locations. Two new Signature Restaurants will be opening in the reimagined Downtown Disney area later this year. Next time you are at Walt Disney World treat yourself to a dining experience not normally found at a theme park. You’ll be pleasantly surprised!
Artist Point, Wilderness Lodge Resort
The BOATHOUSE, Downtown Disney (opening 2015)
California Grill, Contemporary Resort
Cinderella’s Royal Table, Magic Kingdom
Citricos, Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
Flying Fish Café, Boardwalk Resort
Fulton’s Crab House, Downtown Disney, Marketplace
The Hollywood Brown Derby, Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Jiko – The Cooking Place, Animal Kingdom Lodge
Le Cellier Steakhouse, Epcot, Canada Pavilion
Monsieur Paul, Epcot, France Pavilion
Morimoto Asia, Downtown Disney (opening 2015)
Narcoossee’s, Grand Floridian Resort
Victoria & Albert’s, Grand Floridian Resort (Does not participate in Disney Dining Plan)
Wolfgang Puck Grand Café, Downtown Disney
Yachtsman Steakhouse, Yacht Club Resort
Note that Signature Restaurants require 2 table service credits when using the Disney Dining Plan. Reservations are highly recommended and can be made up to 180 days in advance.
My name is Susan Heidenrich and I am a travel professional 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!
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