10 Must-Try Restaurants for First-Time Visitors to Walt Disney World

When it comes to dining at Walt Disney World, there’s more than just the magic of the theme parks. There’s also an incredible variety of restaurants that offer unforgettable dining experiences. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or you’re a seasoned Disney fan, these top 10 restaurants should be on your list for delicious meals, fun character interactions, and spectacular views.

From unique themed dining to all-you-care-to-enjoy meals, these spots make your Disney trip truly magical.

1. Chef Mickey’s – Disney’s Contemporary Resort

If there’s one restaurant that epitomizes Disney magic, it’s Chef Mickey’s at Disney’s Contemporary Resort. Perfect for families and first-time visitors, Chef Mickey’s is a character dining buffet where Mickey, Minnie, and the rest of the Fab Five make appearances, all while you enjoy classic American comfort food.

The real showstopper? The unique view inside the resort, with monorails gliding overhead as you dine. Whether you’re there for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, the lively atmosphere and interactions with beloved Disney characters are sure to leave everyone smiling.

Chef Mickey’s is an ideal choice if you want a meal filled with Disney flair, and it’s also one of the best spots for family photos with your favorite characters.

2. ‘Ohana – Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

For a meal with a taste of the tropics, head over to ‘Ohana at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. This all-you-care-to-enjoy restaurant serves up family-style Polynesian cuisine that will have you coming back for more. Breakfast offers a character experience where you can dine with Lilo, Stitch, and Mickey, making it a great option for kids and Disney fans alike.

At dinner, the restaurant transforms into a Polynesian luau-inspired feast with grilled meats, island-inspired sides, and a warm, inviting atmosphere. And here’s a special tip: if you time your dinner right, you can catch the Magic Kingdom fireworks from your seat, with the soundtrack piped in for a full sensory experience.

3. Whispering Canyon Café – Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Resort

For a dining experience full of fun and good-natured mischief, Whispering Canyon Café at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Resort is a must. Known for its rowdy waitstaff and hearty all-you-care-to-enjoy skillets, this restaurant provides a rustic, family-friendly vibe that’s hard to resist.

Whether you stop in for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, you can expect playful antics, delicious comfort food, and a cozy lodge atmosphere.

While you’re there, take some time to explore Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, a stunning resort inspired by the Pacific Northwest. It’s the perfect combination of nature and Disney charm.

4. 50’s Prime Time Café – Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Step back in time to the 1950s at 50’s Prime Time Café in Disney’s Hollywood Studios, where retro décor, classic comfort food, and a cast of waitstaff “family members” make you feel like you’ve traveled to a vintage sitcom. From fried chicken and pot roast to the famous peanut butter and jelly milkshake, this restaurant is perfect for those who want a meal served with a side of nostalgia.

One of the best parts of dining here is the experience with the waitstaff, who playfully remind you to eat your vegetables and keep your elbows off the table. It’s all part of the charm at 50’s Prime Time Café, where a visit feels like a meal with extended family.

5. Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater – Disney’s Hollywood Studios

For a dining experience unlike any other, stop by the Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Here, you’ll sit in vintage cars under the stars while classic sci-fi movie clips play on the big screen. The menu features American favorites like burgers, fries, and shakes, making it a fun, casual dining option.

What sets this restaurant apart is its unique ambiance—it truly feels like you’re at an old-school drive-in movie theater. Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater is a hit with kids and adults alike, and it’s one of the more affordable table service options at Walt Disney World, offering great value for a memorable meal.

6. Biergarten – EPCOT’s Germany Pavilion

Celebrate Oktoberfest year-round at Biergarten in EPCOT’s Germany Pavilion. This lively restaurant offers a buffet of traditional German dishes like bratwurst, sauerkraut, and schnitzel, all while live musicians perform on stage. Long communal tables give the meal a festive, family-style atmosphere, and if you’re a fan of German beer, you’ll love the variety on tap—order by the liter!

The authentic German setting combined with great food and entertainment makes Biergarten a wonderful choice for both adults and families looking for a fun and filling meal. And don’t forget to save room for dessert—the apple strudel is a guest favorite!

7. The Boathouse – Disney Springs

Dining by the water at Disney Springs doesn’t get better than The Boathouse, where fresh seafood and prime steaks are served in a beautiful dockside setting. This restaurant is perfect for a special occasion or just a relaxing night out.

While the menu is impressive, featuring everything from lobster to filet mignon, The Boathouse’s most unique feature is its Amphicar tours. Guests can ride in a vintage amphibious car that glides both on land and water, offering a one-of-a-kind way to experience Disney Springs.

If you’re looking for an upscale meal with a touch of adventure, The Boathouse is an unforgettable dining option.

8. California Grill – Disney’s Contemporary Resort

For a dining experience with breathtaking views, look no further than California Grill at Disney’s Contemporary Resort. Located on the top floor of the resort, this upscale restaurant offers panoramic views of the Magic Kingdom and Seven Seas Lagoon, making it one of the best places outside the park to watch the fireworks. The menu is just as spectacular, with gourmet dishes ranging from sushi to wood-fired meats.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to enjoy an elegant meal with a view, California Grill delivers on both food and atmosphere. Be sure to make reservations early, as this spot is incredibly popular, especially during fireworks shows.

9. Beaches & Cream Soda Shop – Disney’s Beach Club Resort

If you have a sweet tooth, Beaches & Cream Soda Shop at Disney’s Beach Club Resort is a must-visit. This retro-inspired soda fountain serves up classic diner fare like burgers and patty melts, but it’s the desserts that really steal the show. The signature item here is the Kitchen Sink, a massive sundae topped with every ice cream topping they have—plus an entire can of whipped cream!

Beaches & Cream is the ultimate spot for indulging in some sugary fun after a day at the parks. It’s a hit with families and dessert lovers of all ages.

10. Boma – Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

For a meal that’s as adventurous as it is delicious, head to Boma at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. This buffet-style restaurant offers a fusion of African-inspired dishes and familiar American fare, making it perfect for both picky eaters and those wanting to try something new. The atmosphere is vibrant, with views of the lodge’s savanna, where animals like giraffes and zebras roam freely.

Boma’s standout dishes include spiced ribs, bobotie (a South African egg dish), and the famous zebra domes for dessert. Dining here is more than just a meal—it’s a cultural experience that transports you to the heart of Africa.

These restaurants offer a glimpse into the variety of dining experiences available at Walt Disney World Resort. From character meals and family-style feasts to fine dining with fireworks views, there’s something for everyone. Be sure to make reservations early, as these popular spots fill up fast!

Enjoy the magic of Disney dining and make memories that will last a lifetime.