Traveling to Disney World with kids presents a delightful challenge when it comes to dining: finding the eateries that not only satisfy young palates but also add to the magic of your vacation. The park is a paradise for young diners, with a plethora of restaurants that cater to the imaginative and adventurous spirit inherent in every child. Each dining location within Disney World has been designed with families in mind, offering varied menus, entertaining themes, and, in some cases, opportunities to dine with beloved Disney characters.
Consider your dining options as another layer of the Disney World experience, not just a necessity but a chance to dive deeper into the adventure. Quick service and table service restaurants dot the map, offering everything from enchanting castle feasts to meals amidst the wilds of a jungle. Whether your family desires an encounter with princesses while you eat or a light spectacle that dazzles as you dine, Disney has it covered. In addition to the entertainment value, these dining establishments are equipped to handle special dietary needs and the selective taste buds of younger guests, ensuring that every member of the family leaves satisfied.
Key Takeaways
- Disney World restauarants are tailored to cater to kids, offering a variety of themes and character dining experiences.
- Dining options range from quick service to sit-down meals, accommodating different budgets and dining preferences.
- Restaurants within the park consider special dietary needs, ensuring a seamless dining experience for every family member.
Choosing the Right Dining Experience
When visiting Disney World with kids, selecting a restaurant that provides an engaging atmosphere and appealing menu tailored to children is crucial. Your dining choices should enhance your overall Disney experience by aligning with the interests and appetites of your young ones.
Understanding Disney World Themed Dining
At Disney World, themed dining is part of the magic that brings fantasy to life for your family. Themed dining options are available throughout the parks, but especially in the Magic Kingdom, where each restaurant has a unique atmosphere and décor. When you dine in these venues, you’re not just having a meal; you’re immersed in a story. For instance, Cinderella’s Royal Table takes you inside the iconic castle for a meal amongst regal splendor. Whether you’re looking for a casual setting or a table service restaurant with an intricate theme, Disney World has options to captivate the imaginations of kids and adults alike.
Character Dining and Where to Find It
Character dining is a quintessential Disney World experience that allows your kids to meet their favorite Disney characters while enjoying their meal. Locations offering this unique experience often require advance reservations, so be sure to plan ahead.
- Magic Kingdom: The Crystal Palace with Winnie the Pooh and friends
- Epcot: Garden Grill with Chip ‘n Dale and other characters in a rotating restaurant
- Disney’s Hollywood Studios: Hollywood & Vine for a Disney Junior character breakfast
- Disney’s Animal Kingdom: Tusker House, where you can dine with safari Donald Duck and friends
Remember, character dining is extremely popular, so it’s wise to book well in advance to secure your spot.
Evaluating Kids’ Menus Across Parks
When dining at Disney World, you’ll find that each restaurant offers a kids’ menu designed to appeal to young diners. Consider the variety and nutritional value of meals. Look for options beyond the standard chicken nuggets and pizza to ensure a balanced diet. Many table service restaurants offer healthier choices like grilled fish, fresh vegetables, and fruit.
Here’s a quick comparison of kids’ menus in different parks:
| Magic Kingdom | Epcot | Disney’s Hollywood Studios | Disney’s Animal Kingdom |
|---|---|---|---|
| Be Our Guest Restaurant | Coral Reef Restaurant | 50’s Prime Time Café | Yak & Yeti Restaurant |
| (French-inspired cuisine) | (Seafood variety) | (American comfort food) | (Asian flavors) |
| The Plaza Restaurant | Sunshine Seasons | Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater | Pizzafari |
| (Classic American) | (Diverse offerings) | (American cuisine, fun setting) | (Italian and American classics) |
Consider not only the food but also the interactive experiences available at each dining venue to ensure an unforgettable meal for your children.
Top Restaurants for Families with Kids
When dining at Disney World with your family, selecting the ideal restaurant is key to a magical experience. Consider not only the menu but the overall atmosphere that caters to the delight and engagement of kids.
Magic Kingdom Highlights
At The Crystal Palace, you and your family can feast on a buffet with favorite characters in a Victorian greenhouse setting. For an enchanting dining experience, Cinderella’s Royal Table offers you the unique opportunity to eat inside the iconic Cinderella Castle.
Epcot’s Family Favorites
In Epcot’s World Showcase, Akershus Royal Banquet Hall serves Norwegian cuisine and features Disney princesses, perfect for a family meal. Via Napoli delivers authentic Italian pizzas that are a hit with kids of all ages.
Animal Kingdom’s Kid-Friendly Eats
Dine with Donald Duck and friends at Tusker House, offering a buffet with African flavors that also has familiar kids’ options. The Rainforest Cafe near the park entrance surrounds you with an immersive jungle atmosphere, complete with animatronic animals.
Best of Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Hollywood & Vine lets you join Disney Junior characters for breakfast, or seasonal dining parties with Minnie and friends during lunch and dinner. 50’s Prime Time Cafe provides classic American comfort food with a side of playful banter from the staff.
Disney Springs Dining Successes
Step into a prehistoric world at T-Rex, where animatronic dinosaurs make for an unforgettable meal. Or, for a more hands-on dining experience, Rainforest Cafe offers a wide variety of dishes with an engaging tropical rainforest theme.
Guide to Making Reservations
When planning your family trip to Disney World, ensuring you have a dining plan is crucial. Start by deciding on the restaurant choices that best suit your family’s needs.
Advance Reservations:
- How Early? Book up to 60 days in advance.
- Platform: Utilize the My Disney Experience app or the Disney World website.
- Time: Reservations open at 6 AM EST on the booking date.
Essential Tips:
- Prioritize your list – some restaurants are highly sought after, with character dining being a favorite among kids.
- Flexibility can be key – if your desired time is unavailable, try adjusting your meal times.
| Essential Days to Remember |
|---|
| Day 60 – Booking opens |
| Day of Visit – Check for last-minute cancellations |
For Disney Springs:
- While not all venues require reservations, popular ones like T-Rex and Rainforest Cafe fill quickly. Consider booking these alongside Disney World restaurants.
Remember: Cancellations within 24 hours typically incur a fee, so confirm your schedule before booking.
By following these guidelines, you’ll ensure a memorable dining experience for your kids at Disney World.
Special Dietary Needs and Picky Eaters
If your children are picky eaters or have special dietary needs, Disney World offers various dining options to cater to their preferences and requirements. When you visit, explore the unique menu selections across different restaurants tailored for young tastes.
Table Service Restaurants: At sit-down restaurants, you can request children’s menus with familiar favorites like chicken nuggets, pizza, and pasta. Chefs are often willing to modify dishes to suit your child’s tastes—don’t hesitate to ask.
Quick Service Locations: For a speedy meal, numerous quick service spots provide grab-and-go options that appeal to kids. They typically include allergen-friendly items as well.
Disney Character Meals: These themed meals are a hit with kids, often featuring buffet or family-style servings where you can choose what suits your child without the wait.
Special Allergen Menus:
Disney World restaurants offer allergen menus and can accommodate many common dietary restrictions such as gluten or dairy-free. Notify your server, and they can guide you through the safe options.
- Peanut Allergies: 🥜
- Alert your server, and they will provide peanut-free options.
- Gluten Sensitivity: 🚫🌾
- Gluten-free bread and pasta are often available.
Snacks: Look out for fruit carts, popcorn, and ice cream stands sprinkled throughout the parks. These can be ideal for a light bite that satisfies most young palates.
Remember, contacting Disney ahead of your visit can make meal planning smoother. With a little research and communication, you’ll find ample choices for even the most discerning young diner.
Quick Service vs. Table Service
When choosing between quick service and table service at Disney World, consider your family’s dining preferences and the pace of your park visit.
Pros and Cons of Quick Service
Quick-service restaurants provide a casual dining experience with a typically lower cost and quick turnaround, allowing for more time to enjoy attractions. They are counter service establishments where you order at the counter and find your own seating.
- Pros
- Time-efficient: Less waiting means more park time.
- Convenience: Easy for on-the-go meals and flexible with no reservations required.
- Variety: Wide range of options that are often kid-friendly.
- Cons
- Limited Interaction: Less personal attention compared to table service.
- Ambience: May lack the immersive theme of some table service restaurants.
Benefits of Table Service Dining
Table service restaurants deliver a sit-down experience with servers attending to your dining needs, which can provide rest and a more relaxed mealtime.
- Benefits
- Themed Dining: Richly themed environments and character dining experiences.
- Menu Depth: Broader menus with more complex dishes.
- Service Quality: Personal attention and better accommodations for dietary needs.
Using table service options can provide a scheduled break from the park’s hustle, which can be a refreshing change of pace, especially for children.
Dining with Characters
Experiencing a character meal at Disney World is a must-do for families. It offers a unique opportunity to meet some of your favorite Disney characters while enjoying a delightful meal.
Most Popular Character Meals
- Chef Mickey’s
Dine with Mickey Mouse and friends at this iconic restaurant located in Disney’s Contemporary Resort. It’s known for its lively atmosphere and American cuisine buffet. - Cinderella’s Royal Table
Join Disney Princesses in Cinderella Castle for an enchanting dining experience. A prix fixe menu is offered, and the regal setting makes it a sought-after meal. - The Crystal Palace
Enjoy a buffet with Winnie the Pooh and friends in a Victorian greenhouse setting at the Magic Kingdom. - Akershus Royal Banquet Hall
Located in Epcot’s Norway Pavilion, this character meal features a taste of Scandinavia alongside visits from Disney Princesses.
How to Maximize Your Experience
- Reservations
Make them early. Booking a character dining experience should be done 60 days in advance to secure your spot. - Meal Times
Plan strategically. Opt for breakfast to start your day with character interaction or dinner to wrap up your evening. - Autograph Books
Bring them along. Characters will sign while you dine, creating a memorable souvenir. - Cameras Ready
Have your camera or phone charged and ready. You’ll want to capture every moment. - Patience
Enjoy the experience. Characters make their way around, so everyone gets time for interaction.
By integrating these elements into your Disney World trip, you’ll create lasting memories with some of the most beloved characters, from the classic charm of Mickey Mouse to the royal allure of the Disney Princesses.
Disney World Dining on a Budget
When visiting Disney World with your kids, enjoying a delightful meal doesn’t have to mean breaking the bank. There are ample budget-friendly options that cater to the whole family.
Buffets and Family-Style Restaurants
Buffets offer great variety and the all-you-eat model is perfect for feeding a group without surprise costs. Trail’s End Restaurant is a budget-friendly, buffet-style eatery where you can enjoy a hearty meal in a rustic setting. For a family-style dining experience, check out ‘Ohana at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort during breakfast, where prices are generally lower than dinner service.
Counter Service Spots
Counter service restaurants provide a more casual dining experience and typically have lower prices than sit-down restaurants. Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café in Magic Kingdom offers a diverse menu that’s sure to please picky eaters. Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Cafe is another alternative that provides good value for the quantity and quality of food.
Pizza on the Go
For a quick and satisfying meal, grabbing a pizza slice is a smart choice. Pizza Ponte at Disney Springs serves up large slices that easily fill you up without straining your wallet.
Here’s a simple breakdown of these cost-effective choices:
| Dining Option | Style | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Trail’s End Restaurant | Buffet | Fixed price, wide variety |
| ‘Ohana (Breakfast) | Family Style | Lower cost than dinner, interactive dining |
| Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café | Counter Service | Variety, speed, themed environment |
| Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn | Counter Service | Generous portions, customization options |
| Pizza Ponte | Quick Service | Affordable, large portions |
Saving on meals can offer you the flexibility to splurge elsewhere, or simply ensure that your magical Disney adventure stays within your budget.
Insider Tips for Disney Dining
When planning your meals at Disney World with your family, prioritize making reservations. Dining spots, especially character experiences and popular eateries at Magic Kingdom Park, fill up quickly. Use the My Disney Experience app to book reservations up to 60 days in advance.
Table Service Recommendations:
- Magic Kingdom: Be Our Guest Restaurant; offers a magical setting perfect for young diners.
- Epcot: Garden Grill; enjoy a family-style meal as the restaurant slowly revolves.
- Disney’s Hollywood Studios: Hollywood & Vine; dine with Disney Junior characters.
- Animal Kingdom: Tusker House Restaurant; a buffet with African flavors and meet-and-greets.
Quick Service Options to Save Time:
- Magic Kingdom: Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Cafe for quick, customizable meals.
- Epcot: Sunshine Seasons for a diverse range of options.
- Disney’s Hollywood Studios: Woody’s Lunch Box for tasty sandwiches and themed treats.
- Animal Kingdom: Flame Tree Barbecue for savory bites amidst a lush setting.
Keep an eye on seasonal offerings and events at Epcot, like the Food & Wine Festival, which can augment your dining experience with unique dishes for all ages.
Lastly, always have a backup plan. Quick service restaurants can help when plans change. Carrying snacks can keep everyone happy between meals. Stay flexible and enjoy the various dining experiences that Disney World has to offer.
Park-by-Park Restaurant Guides
When planning your dining experiences at Disney World, choosing the right restaurant in each park adds magic to your family adventure. Each park boasts unique themes and culinary delights that cater to younger taste buds while offering an enjoyable experience for all ages.
Ultimate Magic Kingdom Dining
At the Magic Kingdom, engage in a royal feast at Cinderella’s Royal Table, where your kids can indulge in delectable grilled beef or fried chicken while meeting their favorite characters. For a more casual meal, Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Cafe offers kid-friendly options like savory mac and cheese coupled with a customizable toppings bar.
Savoring Epcot’s International Flavors
Epcot is a haven for diverse dining experiences, and the Garden Grill is a standout with its rotating menu and views of the Living with the Land attraction. Enjoy a family-style spread featuring pot roast and mac and cheese. Don’t miss sampling traditional schnitzel at the Germany Pavilion for a taste of authentic European cuisine.
Animal Kingdom’s Top Eats
In Animal Kingdom, embark on a culinary journey to Pandora – The World of Avatar with its otherworldly dining at Satu’li Canteen, where customizable bowls and hearty grilled beef options await. For a taste of comfort food, Flame Tree Barbecue offers smoked meats and classic sides like mashed potatoes within a lush outdoor setting.
Hollywood Studios’ Must-Visit Spots
Your adventure in Hollywood Studios is incomplete without visiting Toy Story Land and grabbing a meal at Woody’s Lunch Box – think nostalgic sandwiches and delightful mac and cheese. For an immersive experience, explore Galaxy’s Edge where Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo presents unique galactic fare, immersing you in the Star Wars universe with every bite.
Resort Dining Options for Families
When you stay at a Disney World Resort, you have access to a variety of dining experiences that cater to the tastes and whims of every family member. Conveniently located on the monorail loop, the Contemporary Resort and Grand Floridian Resort offer diverse options with enchanting themes and live entertainment.
Dining at Disney’s Contemporary Resort
At Disney’s Contemporary Resort, you can enjoy a modern culinary experience with a touch of Disney magic. Chef Mickey’s is a must-visit for families, offering a buffet with a wide selection of kid-friendly fare and the chance to meet Disney characters.
- Hours: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Character Dining: Yes
- Reservations: Recommended
For a more upscale dining experience, consider The California Grill, known for its views of the Magic Kingdom fireworks and exquisite cuisine. Bear in mind, this venue is more suited for older kids due to its sophisticated atmosphere.
- Hours: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Fireworks View: Yes
- Reservations: Essential
Grand Floridian Resort Dining Explored
Grand Floridian Resort & Spa offers a Victorian charm that can make your dining experience quite spectacular. 1900 Park Fare presents a whimsical character buffet breakfast and dinner that’s perfect for your little ones.
- Theme: Victorian elegance with character interactions
- Menu: Buffet with a variety of options
- Reservations: Highly recommended
For a unique experience, try the Grand Floridian Café. Here you can savor sophisticated flavors in a more casual setting, ideal for a family meal. Live music in the lobby adds a delightful backdrop to your dining.
- Atmosphere: Casual, yet sophisticated
- Live Music: Available in the lobby during select hours
By choosing to dine at either of these resorts, you’re not just picking a place to eat; you’re adding an experience to your Disney adventure that your family will remember for years to come.
The Entertainment Factor
When you’re dining at Disney World with kids, the entertainment provided can turn a meal into an unforgettable experience. The offerings range from live performances to interactive engagements with beloved characters.
Dining with Live Performances
At Cinderella’s Royal Table, you enjoy your meal amidst the grandeur of Cinderella Castle. This dining experience often includes live music, providing a regal atmosphere as you dine with Disney Princesses.
- Live Music: Enhance your meal with the ambient tunes of live musicians.
- Character Appearances: Dine with Cinderella and friends.
Interactive Dining Experiences
Be Our Guest Restaurant in Fantasyland lets you step into the animated world of the Beast’s castle from “Beauty and the Beast.” Interaction is key here; don’t be surprised if the Beast makes an appearance during dinner service for a greeting that will delight the entire family.
- Character Dining: Engage with the Beast in his own castle.
- Dining Options: Choose from three meticulously themed rooms for a meal that doubles as an adventure.
Healthy Dining Options for Kids
When you visit Disney World with your little ones, balancing fun and nutrition can be a challenge. Fortunately, there are several restaurants across the theme parks that offer healthy options for kids. Let’s explore some of the best choices in Animal Kingdom and Hollywood Studios.
Animal Kingdom
- Satu’li Canteen: This restaurant in Pandora offers a customizable bowl where you can select a base of wholesome grains or hearty greens, lean proteins like grilled chicken, and fresh vegetable slaw.
- Tusker House Restaurant: Here, you’ll find a buffet with a variety of fruits, vegetables, and whole-grain options to keep the energy high for adventure.
Hollywood Studios
- ABC Commissary: This dining spot provides healthier alternatives, including grilled chicken with quinoa and fresh vegetables.
- Woody’s Lunch Box: Offering a selection of sandwiches on whole-grain bread, and fresh fruit as a snack option.
When planning your vacation meals, you can usually preview the menu online for restaurants across the parks. Look for items marked with the Mickey Check symbol, indicating that they meet Disney’s nutrition guidelines. Remember, staying hydrated and nourished with healthier food choices will keep you happy and energized throughout your magical journey!
Souvenir Dining Experiences
At Disney World, dining isn’t just about the food; it’s an immersive experience that often comes with a treasured keepsake. Here’s where you can enjoy unique themed dining and bring home a memory from your meal.
Magic Kingdom
- Cinderella’s Royal Table: Dine like royalty inside Cinderella Castle. Children are often gifted with a special souvenir, such as a wand or a sword.
- Be Our Guest Restaurant: Step into Beast’s enchanted castle for French-inspired fare and receive a themed souvenir cup.
Disney Springs
- T-REX: This dinosaur-themed eatery not only offers a prehistoric atmosphere but also a Build-A-Dino experience by Build-A-Bear Workshop®, exclusive to this location.
- Rainforest Cafe: Dive into a rainforest setting with animatronic animals and leave with a themed souvenir after your adventurous meal.
Character Dining
- Chef Mickey’s: Enjoy a meal at the Contemporary Resort with Mickey and friends. Kids get to interact with characters and receive autographs and photos as personal mementos.
- Hollywood & Vine: Meet Disney Junior characters during breakfast at Hollywood Studios and get a keepsake photo.
| Location | Souvenir | Atmosphere |
|---|---|---|
| Cinderella’s Royal Table | Wand/Sword | Royal Castle |
| Be Our Guest | Souvenir Cup | Enchanted Castle |
| T-REX | Build-A-Dino | Prehistoric |
| Rainforest Cafe | Themed Souvenir | Rainforest |
| Chef Mickey’s | Autographs | Festive |
| Hollywood & Vine | Photo | Hollywood Glamour |
When planning your visit, consider the age and interests of your children to choose the perfect dining experience filled with lasting memories and special souvenirs.
Seasonal and Limited-Time Offerings
When you’re visiting Disney World with your family, exciting seasonal and limited-time dining experiences await that are perfect for kids. These offerings are sprinkled across Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom, providing a unique culinary magic that aligns with the seasons or special events.
Magic Kingdom
- Cinderella’s Royal Table: Enjoy holiday-themed treats with Disney Princesses during Halloween and Christmas.
- The Crystal Palace: This buffet occasionally features seasonal dishes and decorations themed to special events.
Epcot
- Seasonal Festivals: Epcot is renowned for its festivals such as the Flower & Garden in spring and Food & Wine in fall, which include kid-friendly kiosks with special menus.
Hollywood Studios
- Woody’s Lunch Box: Limited-time Toy Story-themed snacks that celebrate movie anniversaries or new releases.
- ABC Commissary: Seasonal desserts often themed around Disney Channel movie premieres.
Animal Kingdom
- Tusker House Restaurant: Check for special seasonal character dining experiences where kids can meet favorite characters in safari gear.
At these dining spots, you’ll find menus evolve with the seasons, giving your kids a chance to try something new with every visit. Be sure to check for the latest offerings before you plan your dining, as these experiences are subject to change and are based on the time of year you visit. Advance dining reservations are highly recommended, especially for holiday periods when these experiences are at their peak of popularity.
Navigating Dining with Toddlers and Infants
When you bring your family to Disney World, finding kid-friendly dining options that cater to the palates of toddlers and infants is a priority. Your children’s comfort and enjoyment are just as important as satisfying their appetites. Here are some tips and recommendations to ensure a smooth dining experience with your little ones:
Choosing the Right Restaurant:
- Character Dining: Opt for restaurants that feature character dining experiences, like ‘Chef Mickey’s’ and ‘Tusker House.’ Your kids will enjoy the entertainment, and you’ll appreciate the diverse menus.
- Quick Service: Consider quick service spots like ‘Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café,’ where the pace is fast, and you can find flexible seating options.
Kid-Friendly Menus:
Look for restaurants with specific children’s menus offering smaller portions and familiar foods to suit younger tastes. ‘The Crystal Palace’ and ‘Cinderella’s Royal Table’ provide selections that will appeal to toddlers and infants.
Facilities for Families:
Prioritize restaurants with convenient family amenities:
- Changing tables in restrooms
- High chairs and booster seats
- Space for strollers
Dining Reservations:
It’s essential to make dining reservations well in advance, especially for the more popular venues. This helps avoid long wait times that can be challenging with young children.
Consider Dietary Needs:
If your child has allergies or special dietary requirements, many Disney World restaurants can accommodate these needs. Alert your server before ordering.
Bear in mind the time of day when planning your meals. Dining during off-peak hours can result in a more relaxed atmosphere for your family.
Desserts and Treats to Not Miss
Walt Disney World offers a delightful array of desserts that are as memorable as the rides. Whether you’re indulging in the “grey stuff” or sharing a Chocolate Extinction, sweet moments await you and your family.
Top Dessert Spots in Each Park
Magic Kingdom: Be Our Guest Restaurant in Fantasyland provides an enchanting setting to try the famous “grey stuff,” a unique dessert often quoted from “Beauty and the Beast.” It’s a creamy cookies-and-cream panna cotta that even kids know is delicious. Go to the West Wing of the castle for an immersive experience.
Animal Kingdom: The Rainforest Cafe, located at the entrance of the park and also in Disney Springs, serves up a massive Chocolate Extinction dessert. This is ideal for families, as it’s a generous serving of chocolate fudge cake adorned with ice cream and chocolate and caramel sauces, large enough for everyone to share.
| Park | Dessert Recommendation | Location Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Magic Kingdom | “Grey Stuff” | Be Our Guest Restaurant, Fantasyland |
| Animal Kingdom | Chocolate Extinction | Rainforest Cafe, Park Entrance & Disney Springs |
Unique Treats for Kids
T-REX™ Cafe: It’s not just a place to eat; it’s an adventure! Your kids can dig into the Paleozoic Chicken Sandwich or the Bronto Burger, but make sure they save room for the Cotton-Tini. This non-alcoholic, cotton candy-adorned spectacle in a glass is just as much fun to look at as it is to sip.
Disney Springs: In between shopping and enjoying the atmosphere, explore the various dessert options throughout this outdoor dining, shopping, and entertainment complex. Many places offer unique desserts specifically designed for children’s palates and a sense of whimsy.
Remember, while you explore the magic of Disney World with your kids, there’s always room for a sweet treat to make the experience even more special.
Adult Beverages and Family Dining
When you’re vacationing at Disney World with your family, it’s nice to know that there’s a balance between kid-friendly fare and adult beverages. Many restaurants within the parks and resorts cater to this balance, making family dining a seamless experience for all.
Tiffins Restaurant at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park offers an adventurous menu for adults and kids alike. Your family can also enjoy African, Asian, and Latin cuisine, and as an adult, you can sip on a selection from their globally-acclaimed wine list.
At EPCOT, La Hacienda de San Angel presents a view of the World Showcase Lagoon and a selection of Mexican dishes. For those who appreciate a good cocktail, the Avocado Margarita is a must-try. Kids will stay entertained with the vibrant atmosphere and approachable menu options.
| Magic Kingdom Park | Recommended Adult Beverage |
|---|---|
| Be Our Guest Restaurant | Enchanted Rose: a fruity, sparkling wine cocktail |
| Liberty Tree Tavern | A selection of American beers and ciders |
Your experience at the Hollywood Studios’ Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater merges nostalgia with novelty. Enjoy classic American cuisine in a retro drive-in setting while your kids marvel at the sci-fi movie clips. Their milkshake menu is a thrill for the kids, while you can enjoy a cosmic concoction from their full-service bar.
At the resorts, the Polynesian Village Resort’s ‘Ohana offers a family-style meal with the famous Polynesian-themed cocktails like the Lapu Lapu.
Remember, moderation is key. Enjoy responsibly and ensure the dining experience remains enjoyable for all members of your family vacation.
Understanding Dining Plans
When planning your Disney World vacation, considering a dining plan can be a wise decision for your family. These plans are prepaid meal packages that tie seamlessly into your stay, allowing you to manage your budget with ease.
Types of Dining Plans:
- Quick-Service Dining Plan: Ideal for families on the go. It includes two quick-service meals and two snacks per person, per night of your stay.
- Disney Dining Plan: This plan offers a mix of quick-service eateries and table-service restaurants, providing one of each meal type plus two snacks per person, each night.
- Disney Deluxe Dining Plan: For extensive dining needs, this package offers three meals (quick-service or table-service) and two snacks per person, per night, along with a refillable drink mug.
How it works:
- Choose your plan based on your family’s eating habits and preferences.
- Use your credits at over 200 dining options across Disney World, including themed restaurants that will excite your kids.
- Keep track of your remaining meal credits with the My Disney Experience app.
Benefits:
- Simplified budgeting, as meals are pre-paid.
- Flexibility to dine without out-of-pocket expenses.
- Convenience and peace of mind, especially with kids.
Remember, while dining plans offer convenience, they aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Assess your family’s appetite and dining preferences to determine if a dining plan aligns with your Disney World experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
When planning your trip to Disney World with kids, you want to know where they can dine with their favorite characters and enjoy meals crafted for their tastes. This section answers common queries about Disney World’s family-friendly dining options.
What are the most entertaining Disney World restaurants for young children?
At Chef Mickey’s, your kids can interact with Mickey and friends while enjoying a buffet that caters to all ages. The Coral Reef Restaurant allows you to dine with a view of the aquarium, offering underwater entertainment.
Which Disney World restaurants offer character dining experiences suitable for kids?
Cinderella’s Royal Table provides a quintessential Disney princess dining experience, while The Crystal Palace invites you to feast with Winnie the Pooh and friends.
How does Walt Disney World accommodate picky eaters at their restaurants?
Most Disney World restaurants have children’s menus with familiar favorites like chicken nuggets, pizza, and pasta. Chefs are also typically able to make adjustments to dishes to suit young taste buds.
Are there Disney dining options where kids can eat for free or at a discounted price?
Children under the age of 3 eat for free in all Disney World buffets and family-style service restaurants. Some Disney World restaurants offer discounts or special kids’ menus for guests aged 3 through 9.
What age range does Disney World classify as ‘child’ for dining purposes?
Disney World considers children to be aged 3 to 9 for dining reservations and pricing. Those aged 10 and up are priced as adults.
Which restaurants close to Disney World are considered kid-friendly and fun?
Rainforest Café, with its engaging jungle theme and animatronics, is located in Disney Springs and near Animal Kingdom. T-Rex Café in Disney Springs offers a prehistoric-themed dining environment that’s a hit with young dinosaur enthusiasts.
