5 Best & Worst Table Service Restaurants at Walt Disney World

With so many restaurants at the Walt Disney World Resort, narrowing them down to the five best and worst is no easy task. However, I’m happy to share my picks for the best and worst Disney restaurants based on variety, quality, and overall experience.

Best Restaurants at Walt Disney World

1. Boma – Flavors of Africa

While Sanaa is a personal favorite at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, Boma takes the top spot for introducing Guests to African cuisine. The buffet setup provides plenty of options for adventurous eaters and those who prefer sticking to basics. From flavorful soups to the iconic Zebra Domes, Boma delivers a standout experience that’s both delicious and memorable.

2. The Boathouse

The Boathouse at Disney Springs is a seafood lover’s dream. Guests can enjoy everything from fresh lobster and oysters to burgers and salads, ensuring something for everyone. With picturesque waterfront dining and optional Amphicar tours, The Boathouse combines great food with unique experiences.

3. Yachtsman Steakhouse

For an elevated dining experience, head to Yachtsman Steakhouse at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort. This signature restaurant serves high-quality steaks in a classic setting. While it’s pricier, the value and quality make it a top choice for a special meal without reaching the extravagance of Victoria & Albert’s.

4. California Grill

Located atop Disney’s Contemporary Resort, California Grill offers diverse menu options, including sushi, vegetarian dishes, and premium entrees like filet mignon. The highlight is undoubtedly the view, especially during fireworks when Guests can enjoy stunning visuals from the adjacent deck. Brunch here is also an excellent way to start a day at Magic Kingdom.

5. Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant

For a unique and immersive experience, the Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater at Disney’s Hollywood Studios invites Guests to dine in vintage cars while watching retro sci-fi clips. The menu includes modern takes on American classics like burgers and milkshakes, making it a fun and affordable table-service option.

Worst Restaurants at Walt Disney World

Coming up with the worst restaurants was challenging since Disney dining rarely disappoints. However, these selections rank lower based on uniqueness, menu appeal, and value for money.

1. Tony’s Town Square Restaurant

Located in Magic Kingdom, Tony’s Town Square Restaurant offers Italian-American cuisine. While the atmosphere is charming, the food is often compared to chain restaurants like Olive Garden. For authentic Italian fare, consider Trattoria al Forno or Via Napoli instead.

2. Nine Dragons Restaurant

The China Pavilion’s Nine Dragons Restaurant offers decent food, but it lacks the uniqueness Guests expect at Disney. With menu items resembling standard Chinese-American fare, it’s not as compelling as other World Showcase options. That said, its affordability and availability for last-minute reservations can make it a convenient choice.

3. Rainforest Café

Rainforest Café’s atmosphere may appeal to families, but it’s not unique to Disney. Guests can find this chain elsewhere, making it less of a priority when visiting Walt Disney World. T-Rex at Disney Springs or Yak & Yeti at Disney’s Animal Kingdom offers more Disney-centric options for a similar vibe.

4. ESPN Club

The ESPN Club at Disney’s BoardWalk is a solid sports bar, but its concept doesn’t align with the immersive Disney experience most Guests seek. Unless you’re visiting during a big game or looking for a casual dining option, other restaurants on the BoardWalk offer more memorable experiences.

5. Planet Hollywood

Planet Hollywood at Disney Springs is another chain restaurant that doesn’t stand out. While the menu suits picky eaters, it’s not as innovative or exciting as other Disney Springs dining options. The monster shakes are intriguing, but it’s not a must-visit spot for most Disney Guests.

Final Thoughts

Walt Disney World boasts an impressive array of dining options, and while some excel in variety and experience, others fall short in uniqueness. Whether you’re exploring signature dining, indulging in fun-themed restaurants, or looking for quick and satisfying meals, the key is to plan ahead and prioritize the experiences that resonate most with you and your group.

Bon appétit and happy dining!