Navigating Walt Disney World Dining in 2024: Tips and Top Picks

Dining at Walt Disney World is a sought-after experience, and to secure your spot at the best restaurants, booking in advance is crucial. Don’t risk relying solely on quick service options; plan ahead to savor the diverse culinary delights the parks and resorts have to offer. You can book dining up to 60 days out, so be sure to set a reminder or talk to a travel agent who will be sure to help you book or remind you!

While the allure of dining within the parks is undeniable, consider the tranquility and elevated experience of resort dining. Enjoy less rushed service, higher-end attire, and intriguing meals at the resorts. This also provides a chance to explore potential accommodations for your next visit. Most of our favorite restaurants are  at the resorts or Disney Springs. Another positive of dining outside the parks is breaking up your day. The parks for a whole day can be overwhelming for some, and stepping out for a relaxed meal can be refreshing!

To avoid the popular dining time rushes, leverage the convenience of ordering quick service meals in advance through the app. Save time and ensure you enjoy your meals without the hassle of long lines, especially during peak hours. In our custom Disney itineraries, we put a reminder for each park day to order your lunch ahead of time. This saves our clients long lines and hangry kiddos.

For a dining experience with a view, our favorites include Toledo at Coronado Springs, California Grill at Contemporary Resort, and Topolino’s Terrace at Riviera Resort. These rooftop options offer not only delectable cuisine but also breathtaking views of the parks, creating unforgettable moments. Check showtimes to snag a table during the fireworks and add some magic to your dinner!

Satu’li Canteen at Animal Kingdom, Columbia Harbor House at Magic Kingdom, Docking Bay 7 at Hollywood Studios, and the plethora of options around World Showcase at Epcot are must-try quick service spots. Each offers a unique culinary journey that suits every taste. These options offer something different than your typical “park food” like burgers and fries, which we love. Not to worry though, these places will all have options for picky eaters that aren’t up for a culinary adventure quite yet!

Be sure to checkout our favorite lesser-known lounges and dining options like Spice Road Table in the Morocco Pavilion at Epcot, providing waterside dining (usually without reservations), excellent sangria, cocktails, and delectable tapas. Unwind at the lounge outside of Brown Derby at Hollywood Studios, or discover unique cocktails and small plates at Nomad Lounge at Animal Kingdom, and Geyser Point Lounge at Wilderness Lodge for unique and relaxed settings. We also love Three Bridges at Coronado Springs for the best margarita on Disney property (in our opinion) and excellent bites. Coming from a local, these will provide some of the best reservation-free, unique dining and drink options. We’d also like to give an honorable mention to Baseline Tap House at Hollywood Studios, which is pretty popular, but for a good reason. Their wine on tap and beautiful charcuterie boards are worth the stop, but stay for the awesome playlist. We may or may not listen to it during at-home happy hours, too.

Be sure to check ongoing promotions that could enhance your dining experience. At West River Travel, we’re here to help you find and make use of the best deals Disney offers, and make your culinary journey at Walt Disney World even more magical. West River Travel keeps up to date with all Disney promotions and our agents can help you apply the right ones to get the most magic for your money!

Embark on a culinary adventure that complements the enchantment of Walt Disney World. Follow these tips and indulge in our recommended dining spots to create lasting memories on your magical vacation.