Disney Springs is the Disney entertainment district, and it is vast, to say the least. Here we focus on the best restaurants at Disney Springs. There are so many options that even experts like myself look for some direction.
What Are The Best Restaurants in Disney Springs?
There is no shortage of restaurants at Disney Springs. There are plenty of places to eat to please every member of your family. One of the great things about Disney Springs is you don’t need a ticket to get in.
In my opinion, the best restaurants offer quality food with a variety of menu choices, a children’s menu, fun adult beverage options, special diet options, and a unique dining experience. I don’t want to eat at a restaurant at my local mall back home.
With the overwhelming number of restaurants to choose from, it can be hard to decide what to pick. Disney Springs offers both table service and quick service restaurants. Allowing you to choose how long you want to spend on your dining experience.
To help take the guesswork out for you, I’m going to go over the best and worst restaurants at Disney Springs. Also, I’ll fill you in on all the fun entertainment and shopping opportunities Disney Springs has to offer.
Table Service Restaurants
If you are looking for a full dining experience, this is the list of the best table service restaurants at Disney Springs.
Keep in mind your dining time will be longer with any of the table service restaurants. There’s a lot to do at Disney Springs, so it’s important to consider that. In addition, it is highly recommended you get reservations for any table service restaurants.
Boathouse
One of the best restaurants in Disney Springs is the Boathouse. Providing a waterfront dining experience, you shouldn’t leave this one off your must-eat list. If you’re lucky enough, you can get the boat booth to complete the experience of eating by the water. The kiddos will love it!
With a menu ranging from fresh seafood to sandwiches to steaks, you likely will find a delectable meal for lunch or dinner. While the price range is a bit steep, you are getting high-quality, fresh food.
Some of their classic entrees include their award-winning Gibsons burger, crab cakes, coconut fried shrimp, grouper, or cracked lobster.
The Boathouse offers a variety of steaks: filet mignon, ribeye, New York strip, and porterhouse. If seafood and steak aren’t your things, don’t fret. They offer a vegetable pasta dish and a chicken breast plate.
Be sure to check about any daily specials. They often offer fresh seafood specials. In addition, they have a whole oyster menu. The oysters are sold individually, which makes it easy to have a sampling of several different ones.
The children’s menu has several options, including macaroni and cheese, Blue Star Angus burger, popcorn shrimp, grilled salmon, and grilled chicken sandwiches. For a fun souvenir, order the Icee for the kiddos. It comes in a fun collectible lighthouse cup.
Don’t forget about dessert, either. Whether you are in the mood for key lime pie in a jar or triple-layer chocolate cake, your tastebuds will be dancing with delight. The kids get their own dessert menu with choices like a chocolate cupcake with rainbow sprinkles, oreo chocolate fudge sundae, lemon sorbet, and strawberry shortcake.
The Boathouse has a full bar with a lengthy list of cocktails, wine, and beer. Whether you order by the glass or the bottle, your server can help match the perfect drink with your meal.
The Boathouse is a perfect, central location, making it easy to get to. From your table, you might just see the Amphicar go by in the water. As a fun touch, the kid’s meals come in their own paper Amphicar.
Morimoto Asia
If you are looking for a Pan Asian meal, look no further than Morimoto Asia, one of the best restaurants at Disney Springs. The restaurant with a view of Lake Buena Vista should be on your must-go dining list.
The atmosphere is unlike any other. From a steel bead chandelier to a glass-walled kitchen, you likely will find yourself snapping photos of everything around you.
Head by Iron Chef Morimoto, the restaurant offers the freshest sushi and delicious dim sum. Other offerings include noodles and rice, poke salad, orange chicken, and spare ribs.
The restaurant offers a children’s menu with choices of orange chicken, mini ramen, lo mein, and egg-fried rice. Each kid’s meal includes a dessert of ice cream or sorbet!
Morimoto Asia offers an extensive alcohol menu, including a long list of sake. Sake is available by the glass, carafe, or bottle.
Other adult beverages include cocktails, wine by the glass, and draft beer. Non-alcoholic drinks include lychee lemon soda, mango go, and blushing dragon.
The dinner menu is quite pricey, so be prepared for that. If you want to experience the restaurant without the high price tag, try their lounge area. They offer small bites, sushi, and noodles. In addition, they have their own cocktail menu.
STK Orlando
I recently visited STK Orlando, a steakhouse located in the heart of Disney Springs. The restaurant has a modern and chic interior that gave me a luxurious dining experience. The menu had a great variety of dishes, but as a meat lover, I decided to go for their famous dry-aged steak. It was cooked to perfection and had a rich and juicy flavor that left me craving for more. The service was impeccable with the staff being friendly and attentive, making me feel welcomed and comfortable throughout my meal. Overall, STK Orlando is a must-visit restaurant for anyone looking for a fine dining experience in Disney Springs.
Enzo’s Hideaway
I visited Enzo’s Hideaway in Disney Springs for my birthday, and it was an amazing experience! As soon as I walked in, I felt like I was transported to a hidden gem in the heart of Italy. The dimly lit space was filled with rustic decor and cozy seating areas that made me feel right at home.
The menu was filled with delicious Italian dishes and a great selection of wines. I decided to go with the spaghetti carbonara and it was the best I’ve ever had! The pasta was perfectly cooked and the sauce was rich and creamy. To top it off, I enjoyed a glass of red wine that paired perfectly with my meal.
The service was top-notch as well. The staff was friendly and attentive, making sure that I had everything I needed throughout my meal. I even had the chance to chat with the manager, who shared some interesting stories about the restaurant’s history.
Jaleo by José Andrés
Jaleo by Jose Andres in Disney Springs is an unforgettable experience. As soon as I walked in, I was greeted by the lively atmosphere and the stunning decor. The staff was attentive and friendly, making me feel right at home.
The menu features a range of Spanish dishes, including tapas, paella, and grilled meats. I started with the Patatas Bravas, which were crispy potatoes served with a spicy tomato sauce and aioli. It was a perfect appetizer to share with my friends.
For my main course, I opted for the Secreto Iberico de Bellota, which was a grilled Iberico pork served with a side of crispy potatoes and a salad. The pork was tender and juicy, and the flavors were exceptional.
Frontera Cocina
If you find yourself craving Mexican food, then you shouldn’t miss out on Frontera Cocina. In fact, it’s the only restaurant at Disney Springs serving authentic Mexican food.
For reality TV fans, the restaurant comes from celebrity chef Rick Bayless, winner of Bravo TV’s “Top Chef Masters.”
Whether you’re a fan of reality TV or not, you’ll be a fan of the food at Frontera Cocina. The menu has a diverse grouping of options. Tacos, salads, carnitas, just to name a few. For the 21 and up club, one of their margaritas is a must!
Don’t forget to start your meal with some delicious guacamole! To finish, try the Coconut-Lime Cuatro Leches.
In addition to their margaritas, they also offer sangria, tequila flights, cocktails, sparkling wine, white & red wine, and draft & bottled beer.
If alcohol isn’t your thing, go for the Fiesta Mexicana Iced Tea. It’s black tea flavored with melon, papaya, and mango. The perfect refreshing drink on a hot summer day!
The restaurant has a lovely, simple ambiance. In addition, the outside terrace offers an amazing view of Disney Springs.
One downside is they charge for chips and salsa. No bottomless chips like you’d find at your local Mexican restaurant. But remember, this is Disney. Everything costs more.
Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant
This is one of my favorite table restaurants at Disney Springs. For an authentic Irish meal, give the Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant a try. As one of the best restaurants in Disney Springs, you may feel like you are walking into a pub in Dublin.
The live music and Irish dancers make for an incredibly fun ambiance. For the full entertainment schedule, be sure to visit Disney’s official site for Raglan Road.
The menu has traditional Irish food, like Shepherd’s pie, but there is plenty on the menu to satisfy all the taste buds in your family.
For Brunch, they offer a full Irish meal complete with Cheshire heritage pork, bacon, roasted tomato, black & white pudding, fried eggs with roasties, and mushrooms.
Lunch and dinner share the same menu with offerings like Fish & Chips, their OMG burger, Drunk Mussels, and Bangin’ Bangers & Mighty Mash.
For the littlest lads and lassies in your group, the children’s menu offers several choices, including macaroni & cheese, grilled chicken, fried fish, and fried chicken.
Don’t forget to save room for dessert. With choices like fluffy lemon clouds and bread pudding, you might not be able to get up from your dinner once you’re all finished.
Their alcohol menu may just be longer than their food menu; with a long list of craft beers, wines, and liquors, you are bound to find one you will enjoy. Wine is available by the glass or the bottle.
Since it might be difficult to choose from their lengthy list of beers, you also have the option to order a flight and sample until you find your favorite.
Wine Bar George
One of the best restaurants at Disney Springs is definitely Wine Bar George. In fact, it’s won awards for how great it is. The restaurant is headed by Master Sommelier George Miliotes, who also helped open The Contemporary’s California Grill.
The atmosphere is incredibly enticing with a modern yet comfortable vibe. The restaurant is set up to mimic a winemaker’s retreat.
For adults, there is an expansive list of 140 different types of wine, available by the bottle or glass and even by the ounce. Cocktails, liquor by the ounce, cider, and beer are also available.
Try the charcuterie board or one of their small plates if you aren’t looking for a full entree. In addition, they also offer family-style plates, serving two to four people.
While the name doesn’t sound kid-friendly, they do offer a children’s menu with a few options, like macaroni and cheese and a hot dog.
They serve lunch Monday through Friday (12 pm – 3 pm) and Brunch on Saturday and Sunday (10:30 am – 2:00 pm.) Dinner is served nightly.
If you aren’t looking for a full meal, try to plan a visit either on Saturday or Sunday between 2 and 3 pm. During the hour, they serve a few of their small appetizers, like hummus and mac & cheese bites, and their cheese boards.
If you’re looking for a laid-back, non-rushed meal, Wine Bar George may be the place for you!
Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’
If you have a hankering for fried chicken, look no further than Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’. As one of the best restaurants at Disney Springs, the hardest part will be figuring out what to order.
Run by Chef Art Smith, who also just happens to be Oprah’s personal chef, the restaurant is full of good old Southern food.
For starters, the donuts cannot be missed. With toppings of pecans, bacon, and house-made caramel, you’ll be wondering when your next visit will be. You can also opt for just sugar-coated donuts.
If you visit Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’, it will be hard to resist not ordering their signature fried chicken. At brunch, you can even pair it up with a side of sugar donuts.
Lunch and dinner starters include fried green tomatoes, hush puppies, and a Key West shrimp cocktail.
The menu is full of sandwiches, salads, and main plates, including ribs, shrimp and grits, and country-fried steak.
Kiddos have the option of fish sticks, a crispy chicken sandwich, chicken tenders, and a cheeseburger. Don’t forget the donuts and ice cream for dessert!
For the grownups 21 and up, there is a lengthy drink menu including crafty moonshine, cocktails, wine, whiskey, draft, and bottled beer. If moonshine is your cup of tea, you can create your own flight.
The Edison
With the look of a 1920s electric company, The Edison delivers food and ambiance. The only one of the restaurants at Disney Springs with a gothic theme, The Edison offers classic American cuisine, live entertainment, and plenty of cocktails.
The food is a bit on the pricey side, but the atmosphere and food make it worth it.
The menu has a wide variety of foods, including burgers, salads, ribs, and fish. If you are in the mood, go for the grilled cheese, accompanied by the tomato soup. The four different kinds of cheese make this sandwich amazing. Who says only kids can eat grilled cheese?
While the drink menu sits longer than the food menu, it still makes it one of the best restaurants at Disney Springs. They offer a slew of cocktails, all sorts of beer, both bottled and draft, and a lengthy wine menu. Wine is available by the glass.
For kids, choose between a cheeseburger, chicken tenders, or tomato soup with grilled cheese. Each kid’s meal comes with a starter (market salad or fresh fruit), entree, drink, and dessert (gelato or chocolate chip cookies).
To end your meal, try the lollipop tree which comes with 9 delectable cheesecake pops.
If you plan on coming with your kids, stick to the daytime. After dark, The Edison turns into a nightclub. Starting at 10:00 pm, a dress code is enforced, and only those 21 and up are allowed in. In addition, there is a cover charge to get in at that point.
The nightclub offers live music entertainment, tap dancers, magicians, and burlesque dancers.
House of Blues
For a night of food and music at one of the most fun restaurants at Disney Springs, don’t forget to try out the House of Blues. With southern-inspired dishes, like gumbo, shrimp & grits, tacos, fried chicken, and jambalaya, you’re sure to find something you’ll like.
The restaurant is surrounded by over 60 sculptures and paintings by Delta-region artists.
Drink specials are offered daily from 11:30-5:00. That’s quite an impressive happy hour! In addition, they serve cocktails, prosecco, white & red wine, and beer.
If you happen to be visiting Disney Springs on Sunday, don’t miss out on the Gospel Brunch at the House of Blues. While it’s temporarily unavailable right now, we hope it gets back on the schedule soon. Once open, you’ll get to indulge in an elaborate buffet, all while listening to the sounds of both modern and traditional gospel music.
Brunch also includes bottomless mimosas and bloody marys for only $15. Food choices include breakfast burritos, chicken ‘n’ donuts, biscuits & gravy, and NY steak & eggs.
There are plenty of options for the little ones at lunch or dinner, like grilled cheese, mini cheeseburgers, hot dogs, mac & cheese, and pasta
The Front Porch Bar is open daily and offers cold drinks and live entertainment in the evening. The entertainment plays Monday through Friday, 4 pm-close and Saturday and Sunday, 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm and 5 pm-close
To check their weekly schedule, visit the House of Blues official site. In addition, don’t forget to check out the gear shop for the best House of Blues apparel and gifts.
Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill
Keeping with the best restaurants at Disney Springs is Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill, by world-renowned chef, Wolfgang Puck.
While the express location is currently closed, the table service restaurant is now open again. While the price on the menu ticks up with the table service version, it should be on your list to try.
The menu has a wide variety of options, including salads, steak, seafood, pizza, and pasta dishes. Don’t forget to try one of their delectable desserts! From key lime pie to carrot cake, you’re bound to find something to satisfy your sweet tooth.
The children’s menu has several options for the littlest ones in your group. Options include spaghetti, grilled chicken, pizza, chicken strips, and a cheeseburger.
For the adults, indulge in one of their handcrafted cocktails, a cold beer, or either a glass or bottle of wine.
End your meal with a sweet coffee beverage. Choose from either the Classic Affogato (vanilla gelato and two shots of espresso) or the Tiramisu “Shakerato” (tiramisu gelato, chocolate sauce, espresso, cocoa powder, chocolate cigars, and waffle chips). Definitely, it’s a sinful way to end your dinner!
They are currently offering a “Grab and Go” option to make for a quick meal on the go. Options include a turkey or chicken salad wrap, salads, french toast, and desserts.
Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar
For the Indiana Jones fans, you don’t want to miss Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar. Move memorabilia surrounding the bar and the restaurant makes you feel like you are in an airplane hangar. Definitely one of the coolest atmospheres of any of the restaurants at Disney Springs.
Appetizers include a giant pretzel, queso dip, or beef empanadas. For your main entree, try one of their flatbreads, chicken wings, or tacos.
The restaurant has a lengthy alcohol menu, including craft beers, a variety of wines, and a long list of cocktails.
For the under-21 crew, they offer a fun variety of drinks, including Antidote, Teddy’s Tea, Diving Bell, and Poisonless Dart. Each offers a refreshing option on a hot Disney day.
While the restaurant is kid-friendly, there is no designated children’s menu. Keep in mind Jock Lindsey’s is a lounge with a limited menu vs. a full restaurant.
Jock Lindsey’s is adjacent to The Boathouse, which may make it hard for you to choose. The only benefit is they offer two different types of dining experiences, making it easier to decide what you’re in the mood for.
Quick Service Restaurants
Some of the best restaurants at Disney Springs offer a quick, convenient place to get a delicious meal. With so much to see at Disney Springs, sometimes you don’t want to spend a lot of time eating a meal.
What’s great about quick-service restaurants is the money you will save. They are cheaper than sit-down restaurants.
Quick-service restaurants tend to offer both indoor and outdoor seating. With COVID restrictions in place, some indoor dining options are limited.
Whether you missed the opportunity to make a reservation or you are not looking for a full sit-down meal, there are several counter-service restaurants around. Let’s dive into the best quick-service restaurants at Disney Springs.
Wolfgang Puck Express
From celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck comes Wolfgang Puck Express. While it’s a quick-service dining restaurant at Disney Springs, they don’t skimp on quality. Sadly, it’s a bit hidden on the Disney Springs property.
With easy meals like pizza, salads, sandwiches, and pasta, you’ll have no problem finding something you’ll love.
They have one of the most lengthy kids’ menus of any of the restaurants at Disney Springs. Some of the options include macaroni & cheese, pizza, spaghetti, and grilled chicken.
Wolfgang Puck Express is currently closed. We sure are hoping they open back up soon. In the meantime, visit Wolfgang Puck’s other restaurant at Disney Springs, Wolfgang Puck Bar and Grill. While it is a full-service restaurant, they do offer Grab and Go options.
Polite Pig
The great thing about the restaurants at Disney Springs is the variety they bring. If you catch yourself wanting some good ol’ barbeque, look no further than the Polite Pig. With options like ribs and brisket, your taste buds will be dancing.
Their list of sides is quite impressive, and you might find yourself struggling with which one to choose. Options include BBQ cauliflower, sweet potato tots, mac and cheese, and tomato and watermelon salad.
All alcohol is served on tap, including wine. If you’re a fan of Bourbon, try one of their 50 different selections, including varieties by Pappy Van Winkle.
D-Luxe Burger
One of the best restaurants at Disney Springs serving burgers is D-Luxe Burger. While a classic cheeseburger is always an option, they also have their list of signature creations.
If you’re undecided whether you want pizza or hamburgers for lunch, D-Luxe takes care of that problem. Try their pizza burger, loaded with fried mozzarella, artisan pepperoni, pomodoro sauce, and lettuce.
Children’s options include a chicken sandwich, cheeseburger, and chicken nuggets. Don’t forget to get one of their delicious gelato shakes to go with your burger!
For adults, there are alcoholic gelato shakes available.
Chicken Guy
All-natural chicken and signature sauces bought to you by celebrity chef Guy Fieri are not to be missed.
This is one of those food locations that are super hard for me to miss. I can’t get enough of the chicken strips, original chicken sandwich, and milkshakes. I get each of these every time I eat here.
Morimoto Asian Street Food
If you aren’t able to get into the full-service restaurant, Morimoto Asian Street Food is the perfect substitution. Located right next to Morimoto, you can still find some of your favorites at the walk-up window.
While it’s a smaller version of one of the great restaurants at Disney Springs, you still have the opportunity to taste some of the deliciousness they serve.
There is seating available in a covered porch area. The street location is also a more affordable option. The menu isn’t huge, but there are options like ramen, egg rolls, sushi, and lo-mein noodles.
Unfortunately, there is no designated children’s menu like at the original restaurant. Be sure you keep that in mind if you have any youngsters in your group.
While there isn’t a huge list, non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages are both available at the walk-up restaurant.
Sunshine Churros
Sunshine Churros is a popular quick-service snack location at Disney Springs that specializes in freshly made churros with a variety of delicious toppings and dipping sauces.
Located near the entrance of Disney Springs, this snack spot is a great choice for a sweet treat on the go or a quick snack break during your Disney Springs visit. With a variety of flavors and toppings to choose from, Sunshine Churros is a must-visit for churro lovers.
Ghirardelli Soda Fountain & Chocolate Shop
Just like the original location in San Francisco, Ghirardelli Soda Fountain & Chocolate Shop offers a wide variety of desserts to choose from.
Finding a sweet treat at the restaurants at Disney Springs is not difficult, and Ghirardelli doesn’t disappoint.
Ice cream can be served by the scoop, or indulge a bit in one of the ice cream sundaes. With choices like Ocean Beach Sea Salt Caramel and their World Famous Hot Fudge Sundae, you might decide to come back again before your visit is over.
Rounding out their menu, you can also pick from their thick shakes (chocolate, vanilla, strawberry, or cookies and cream), hot cocoa, or frozen hot chocolate.
Earl of Sandwich
There’s nothing like a good sandwich to satisfy your lunchtime hunger. Look no further than Earl of Sandwich for the perfect one. As one of the best restaurants at Disney Springs, you shouldn’t have a hard time finding something on the menu to please everyone in your group.
Don’t let the name fool you; they are more than just sandwiches. From pizza to salads, you won’t have a problem finding something to order.
If you find yourself visiting Disney Springs early in the morning on an empty stomach, no fret, Earl of Sandwich serves breakfast as well. Whether you want an egg sandwich, omelet, or yogurt parfait, they have you covered.
Blaze Fast-Fire’d Pizza
Sometimes, nothing beats a great pizza. Blaze Fast-Fire’d Pizza definitely serves some of the best pizza of any of the restaurants at Disney Springs.
You can build your own 11” pizza or pick one of their signature pies. The pizzas are made from fresh ingredients, and there is no shortage of toppings to choose from.
What’s amazing at Blaze is the speed at which your pizza is made. Your pizza will be ready in 3 minutes! The perfect choice if a day walking around Disney Springs has made you starving.
If you still have room after the pizza, try one of their tasty desserts, like their s’mores pie or chocolate chip cookie sprinkled with sea salt.
The prices are perfect at Blaze. Everything on the menu is under $15. It’s not something you see often in Disney World.
Do you Need Reservations at Disney Springs Restaurants?
The restaurants at Disney Springs do not require reservations but are highly recommended. If you show up during the busy lunch hour, you likely will not be able to get a table. The restaurants at Disney Springs can get packed, especially on the weekends.
Using your My Disney Experience App, you can easily make reservations from your phone. As a note, quick-service restaurants do not take reservations.
If you are unable to get reservations through their App, try OpenTable. They occasionally will offer additional availability.
You can make restaurant reservations as far as 60 days in advance. As a reminder, make sure you cancel in time to avoid any cancellation fees.
For a listing of all restaurants at Disney Springs, check out their complete list, including restaurants that are currently not open.
For more information about openings and guidelines, visit Disney Springs’ official site.
What are the worst Disney Springs restaurants?
While it’s never easy to say something negative about Disney World, we should warn you about restaurants to steer clear of.
While each of the restaurants below serves its purpose, it’s hard to want them on the top of our dining list.
With a large number of restaurants at Disney Springs, there are bound to be some that don’t quite match up with the list of the best. Feel free to take these restaurants off your list of must-sees.
Rainforest Cafe
While the atmosphere is fun for kids, the food is sub-par and over-priced. If your kids are dying to go but you’re not in the mood for bland food, take a walk through the gift shop. You can still experience the occasional rainstorm and observe the large fish tanks.
It’s a restaurant you can likely visit at the mall back home, which just doesn’t make it authentic enough for us to want to visit at Disney World.
The best part of the restaurants at Disney Springs is their authenticity. It’s always fun knowing you can only visit it when you come to Disney.
T-REX
Very similar to Rainforest Cafe is another one of the themed restaurants at Disney Springs, T-REX. Instead of a rainstorm, you’ll get an occasional meteor shower.
This is a tough one because it’s a great atmosphere for kids. The restaurant is surrounded by animatronic dinosaurs, which might be a lot for really young kids.
The food is just ok, especially since there are so many great restaurants at Disney Springs to choose from.
The gift shop is what wins points with us. With plenty of dino gear and the ability for your kids to build their own dino, you won’t need an excuse to skip the food.
Plan on using the bathroom in the restaurant, which will allow you to walk through and check out the dinosaurs. Then, plan on eating at one of the best restaurants on our list at Disney Springs.
Planet Hollywood
When you think of Disney Springs in the 90s, you likely remember Planet Hollywood. A few years ago, the location was revamped to bring more people in. Unfortunately, it still doesn’t do it for us.
With the array of restaurants at Disney Springs, Planet Hollywood just falls flat. There isn’t anything exciting about their food options that makes us race back for more.
If you’re interested in seeing the memorabilia, you can do so without having to eat there. Seeing props from old movies is very cool, so feel free to take a walk-through to check them out.
Paddlefish
Do you remember the old Fulton’s Crab House? Well, a few years back, it changed to Paddlefish.
It’s a neat idea, as it looks like you are boarding the Empress Lily to dine. The atmosphere has changed from what it once was, and not necessarily in a good way.
While it’s on the water and it’s always enticing to want lake views, the restaurant, unfortunately, falls flat. With all the restaurants at Disney Springs to choose from, you don’t have to settle on Paddlefish.
Paddlefish fails to deliver with their seafood, especially with the price tag attached. You’re much better off spending your money at The Boathouse, where you get the water view and fresh catches.
If you really want the water view and The Boathouse doesn’t have availability, grab a drink at the rooftop lounge at Paddlefish. It is the only place at Disney Springs offering a rooftop level on the waterfront. They have a lengthy list of cocktails, wine, and beer.
Paradiso 37
Last on our list of the worst restaurants at Disney Springs is Paradiso 37. The food is average but pricey. Those two things just don’t go together very well for me.
With the variety of restaurants available, it’s tough to want to settle on a restaurant that offers just ok food. The service also tends to be hit or miss. I don’t know about you, but when I pay a lot for a meal, I want quality food AND good service.
The one thing Paradiso 37 has going for it is their alcohol menu. If you’re a fan of tequila, you may want to check out their expansive tequila bar.
Tips for Dining at Disney Springs
Dining at Disney Springs can be a wonderful experience, with a variety of restaurants to choose from and a lively atmosphere to enjoy. Here are some tips to make the most of your dining experience at Disney Springs:
1. Make Reservations: Many of the popular restaurants at Disney Springs fill up quickly, so it’s always a good idea to make a reservation in advance. You can do this through the My Disney Experience app or by calling the restaurant directly.
2. Consider the Time of Day: If you’re looking for a more relaxed dining experience, consider going earlier in the day or later in the evening. Lunchtime and dinnertime can be busy and crowded, but if you go during off-peak hours, you may be able to avoid the crowds.
3. Try Something New: With so many different restaurants to choose from, it’s a great opportunity to try a new cuisine or type of food you’ve never had before. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try something different.
4. Check for Special Offers: Disney Springs often has special offers and discounts available for dining, so be sure to check for any current promotions before making your reservation.
5. Enjoy the Atmosphere: Disney Springs is not just about the food, it’s also about the overall experience. Take some time to explore the shops, entertainment, and other attractions before or after your meal.
What should you not miss at Disney Springs?
Disney Springs has transformed itself over the past several years. If you are looking to maximize your visit to Disney Springs, there are some things you shouldn’t miss out on.
While the restaurants at Disney Springs are always appealing, the stores and sites are worth mentioning as well.
From entertainment to shopping, make sure you try to fit these places into your schedule.
World of Disney
For the ultimate Disney shopping experience, you can’t miss World of Disney. If you haven’t visited the parks yet, it’s the perfect opportunity to fit yourself with a new pair of ears. It’s also a great place to stop after you’ve had a chance to visit one of the restaurants at Disney Springs. Get a full stomach and then do some shopping!
After recent updates, the store is back open once again. The store boasts the largest collection of Disney memorabilia. From clothing to plush Disney characters to collectibles, you won’t have a problem finding a souvenir to take back home.
Disney’s Wonderful World of Memories
After you pick up your new pair of ears, don’t forget to take them to Disney’s Wonderful World of Memories to get them personalized. They even have a “create your own ears” boutique.
They also offer a wide variety of ears and souvenirs to choose from.
Located in the Marketplace, you can easily go visit one of the restaurants at Disney Springs after you have your new ears!
The Art of Disney
Located right next to Disney’s Wonderful World of Memories is The Art of Disney. In fact, you must enter The Art of Disney to access both stores.
The Art of Disney has signed limited print editions and magnificent artwork. The collection they have is actually quite amazing. Everything in the store is for sale, with price tags in every price range.
In addition to artwork, you also have the opportunity to purchase figurines, souvenir postcards, and animation cels.
They also offer an on-demand option, where you can scroll through a kiosk and pick any prints you’d like to purchase from their virtual library.
Days of Christmas
After you’ve eaten at the restaurants at Disney Springs, you might as well start your Christmas shopping!
It doesn’t matter whether you visit in the middle of winter, or in the midst of a hot July, you don’t want to miss the opportunity to find some Disney inspired Christmas decorations.
The store is beautiful with its array of ornaments, stockings, and keepsakes. If Halloween is more your thing, don’t forget to check out their merchandise from “Nightmare Before Christmas.”
In addition, Days of Christmas carries offerings for Hanukkah.
For an additional fee, you can personalize your new ornament!
Amphicar
Docked right next to one of the best restaurants at Disney Springs, The Boathouse, is the Amphicar. The amphibious vehicle takes you for a 20-minute ride around Lake Buena Vista.
For $125 a ride, you can fit 3-4 people. My recommendation is to eat at The Boathouse first. If you spend $50 on dining, you will get $25 in credit towards an Amphicar tour.
You can either walk up to buy tickets or purchase them through the Boutique at The Boathouse restaurant. This is definitely a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!
Venezia Tours
If the Amphicar isn’t your thing, you can book a tour on the Venezia, a 40-foot Italian water taxi. The taxi takes you through Lake Buena Vista and the Disney Riverway.
A 3-hour tour will cost you $500. While you can dine in a taxi, the price does not include food or alcohol. While pricey, consider booking it for a special event.
LEGO Store
If you want to find something to entertain your kiddos while eating at the restaurants at Disney Springs, hit up the LEGO store first.
It’s hard to miss the LEGO store. On the outside are giant statues made out of building bricks. You’ll likely stand in wonder as you see the fire-breathing dragon and sea serpent in the lake, all made from LEGOs.
Inside, you can either pick up a LEGO kit or buy individual bricks from their massive wall of bricks. Did I mention it is massive?
You’ll find LEGO sets offered nowhere else except at Disney World. You can even custom-design your own LEGO person.
To avoid feeling too overwhelmed, the store is organized by theme. No one is too young or too old to enjoy the LEGO store.
Coca-Cola Store
From the rooftop bar to the large merchandise shop, you don’t want to miss out on visiting the Coca-Cola Store.
The rooftop bar offers an amazing panoramic view of Disney Springs. While you’re up there, try one of the many tasty beverages. You can even mix your own concoction up! If you’re feeling adventurous, there is a sample of the 16 beverages from other countries around the world.
The rooftop bar could easily fall into the category of the best restaurants at Disney Springs.
The rooftop bar menu offers everything from sodas to floats to cocktails.
When you’re ready to go shopping, perhaps not after too many cocktails, you can check out their impressive fashion line and an array of household goods.
Characters in Flight
After you’ve had a chance to eat at one of the restaurants at Disney Springs, you can take off high in the sky.
For the best view of Disney Springs, fly 400 feet high in the Characters in Flight helium balloon. On a clear day, you can see 20 miles away. Don’t forget your camera as you ride for about 10 minutes high in the sky.
You can even hold a wedding ceremony for 30 minutes from the top of Disney Springs. An incredibly unique experience, for sure!
Children under the age of 12 must fly with an adult. Children ages 3-9 are $15, and adults/older children ages 10 and up are $20. As an insider tip, reduced-price tickets are occasionally available on Groupon.
In addition, if you visit before 10 am, all tickets are $10 each. If you can’t make it that early, they have a $2 off coupon on their site.
Splitsville
Splitsville is definitely not your neighborhood bowling alley. While this could fall under one of the best restaurants at Disney Springs, it’s also a place not to be missed for a fun dose of entertainment.
It’s a great opportunity for a fun time if you are taking a day off of the parks or are just looking for something different to do.
It is pricey to bowl there, so keep that in mind as you plan for your next visit. You don’t have to bowl in order to eat, so feel free to get a table and enjoy the ambiance!
The menu has a wide variety of foods including sushi, pizza, burgers, and nachos. You likely will have no problem finding something on the children’s menu for the youngest bowlers in your group.
