Walt Disney World® Resort lives up to its reputation as the Magic Kingdom. With so much to do, there never seems to be enough time (and energy—we feel you, parents of little ones), but as any intrepid Disney veteran knows, breaks are a must. We can’t think of a better way to recharge than with a good meal. Luckily, our Inspectors did the legwork and found eight spots to include in our 2023 Guide.
So, whether you want to tuck into a sandwich piled high with pulled pork or prefer tapas with a view for a night out sans the kids, we’re sharing our MICHELIN recommendations for dining at Disney.
California Grill
Disney’s Contemporary Resort
Set on the 15th floor of Disney's Contemporary Resort, this restaurant flaunts a dramatic setting complete with a bird's eye view of the Magic Kingdom. While the décor may feel a dash dated, a stunning open kitchen and wall of glass offering breathtaking vistas lend an updated feel. The contemporary menu demonstrates clear Californian leanings with local inflections, like Florida citrus, as well as the occasional Asian inspiration, like short rib wontons or sushi. The cheese board is a thrill, while desserts run the gamut—think a Grand Marnier-laced crème brûlée with candied kumquats. Cocktails, sake and wine flights are a balm for Mouse-weary adults.
Reservations can be challenging with slots booking out 60 days in advance, so plan accordingly.
Capa
MICHELIN One Star
Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World® Resort, a MICHELIN Guide Hotels Selection
Calling Capa a steakhouse is like saying flamenco is just a dance. This stunning spot, reigning from the 17th floor of the Four Seasons Orlando, is big on drama (and that's before the unrivaled views of the nightly Disney World fireworks show). From the subtle design nods to the menu, there is a clear Spanish influence here.
Expect a distinctive experience defined by hickory-grilled steaks and impressive tapas. Kick things off with pan con tomate or pork belly with apple butter before indulging in a main dish, like flame-kissed ribeye with tamarind-ancho sauce. Patatas bravas, that Spanish ode to the potato, is a worthy side that demands attention, while artful plating, like the swipe of piquillo salsa accompanying the tender filet, is a calling card.
Citricos
Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
Set on the second floor of the Grand Floridian Hotel, Citricos brings to life a gloriously contemporary vibe and décor elements that are a subtle nod to Mary Poppins. The menu is coastal American, as evidenced by the use of seafood, citrus and tropical fruit. The team has a refined cooking style, replete with balanced flavors and technical prowess.
While the carte is seasonal, expect the likes of corn bisque whimsically arranged with pickled fennel and popcorn. Crispy smoked duck is finished with salt and gently set atop a tangle of tagliatelle with celeriac purée. Up next might be guava-braised short ribs with cheddar grits and poblano sauce, leaving you full to the brim. Save room for at least one exquisite dessert—like an orange blossom flan.
Morimoto Asia
Disney Springs
Set in the bustling Disney Springs area, this bi-level beauty is a collab with Chef Masaharu Morimoto. A grandiose sense prevails throughout—from the well-stocked bar to the tables and booths neatly arranged under shimmering 20-feet-long chandeliers. There are balcony seats upstairs, which afford views of the hanging ducks in the glassed-in kitchen.
The cooking is pan-Asian and the menu spans everything from American-Chinese classics and Korean specialties, to ramen and sushi. Ingredients employed here are impressive; flavors are subtle yet balanced and technique is solid. Orange chicken is beloved, but be sure to check out such daily gems as the black truffle-sushi rice risotto. Desserts, like a melon soda float with vanilla gelato, are delightful.
The Polite Pig
Bib Gourmand
Disney Springs
If the name of this Disney Springs destination doesn't warrant your attention, its waterfront setting and soulful cooking will do the trick. The space is casual with an industrial vibe; guests may order at the counter or large, full-service bar to avoid a wait—et voilà —everything is magically delivered to your table. Exposed ductwork, a glassed-in kitchen and "farmer's market" sign put diners in the mood for rustic-meets-contemporary food, complete with condiments aplenty. Flavors are nuanced yet balanced in these dishes. Meat reigns supreme on the menu and there's no going wrong with the brisket—sliced thin, black pepper-rubbed and served with sides like creamy potato salad.
Beers and cocktails, like the Texas tea, are available on draft.
Ravello
Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World® Resort, a MICHELIN Guide Hotels Selection
This more casual concept at the Four Seasons Hotel has Executive Chef Fabrizio Schenardi at the helm. The room is bright and sleek with a laid-back feel. High ceilings, muted hues with an occasional pop of orange and a verdant terrace enhance the inviting vibe. Modern Italian is the menu's focus, which includes everything from small plates and pizzas to house pastas and hearty mains. The chef employs his own family's recipes, so expect such personalized plates as grilled melanzane with zucchini, cucumber and ricotta; or calamari sautéed in tomato sauce, with oregano, olives and capers. Spinach, veal and ricotta ravioli is an homage to his grandmother; and desserts are made with consummate skill.
A shot of house-made limoncello hits all the bright spots.
Toledo
Coronado Springs Resort
Situated on the 16th floor of Disney's Coronado Springs Resort, Toledo is quite the looker with lofty ceilings in bold colors and geometric tiled floors. Nab a table by the glass wall and you'll have a bird's eye view of the Epcot fireworks. Meanwhile, on the tables Spanish cuisine takes center stage. Tapas kick things off, and pan con tomate is a natural choice. Meat-forward mains include several steak options, as well as a ribeye for two, but the Rioja-braised chicken makes a compelling argument for choosing a different route. End on a sweet note with café con leche, a chocolate choux pastry filled with chocolate and coffee cream.
Though certainly not inexpensive, Toledo packs less of a punch to the wallet than other Disney restaurants.
Victoria & Albert’s
Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
Nestled within Disney's crown jewel, the Grand Floridian Resort, this restaurant, with its plush carpeting and live harpist fits the part (is that "Part of Your World?" Why, yes, it is.). While it evokes a garden, its Victorian design keeps things grand. Reservations require patience to snag, but stay the course and you'll be rewarded with white-glove service.
Chef Matthew Sowers's tasting menus spotlight contemporary cooking with global touches and definitive Asian leanings. You may enjoy the likes of Danish hiramasa, a bright take on a Peruvian ceviche enhanced with Okinawa sweet potatoes or seared Colorado bison over a house made granola comprised of amaranth, cranberries and rolled oats and sided by a maple-glazed turnip and sweet potato purée.
