Sticker Shock from Disney’s Victoria & Albert’s? Try These Restaurants Instead!

Victoria & Albert’s Walt Disney World’s only AAA Five Diamond dining experience has been getting quite the buzz from fans since the restaurant reopened earlier this summer.

While many are welcoming the new design changes to the Victoria & Albert’s dining room, along with the revamped menu, if there is one part of the experience that’s led to some controversy among fans, it’s the price. The ‘standard’ pre-fixe menu at Victoria & Albert’s starts at $295 per person, but as recent Guests shared, it is not difficult to go well over that for a single meal.

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If the cost of Victoria & Albert’s is totally undoable for a night out at Walt Disney World, we totally understand! But we’re also here to help, so we’re bringing you the best alternatives that are “reasonably” pricey (at least by Disney standards) that will give you an incredible dinner without completely breaking the bank.

We have to note that while these are excellent alternatives, there are parts of the Victoria & Albert’s experience that you will only get there, such as more guided tastings of gourmet dishes and the chance to book even more specialty dining with the Chef’s Table. Still, there is a signature restaurant for everyone at Walt Disney World, and we think you’ll love some of our suggestions!

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The first alternative to Victoria & Albert’s will get you as close to the fine dining establishment as possible since it’s right next door! Citricos is located right next to Victoria & Albert’s on the second floor of Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. Of course, the Grand Floridian is a spectacular setting for a memorable dinner at Walt Disney World, so whether you dine at Victoria & Albert’s or Citricos, you will be able to take in the Resort’s gorgeous lobby and grounds or pop over to the Enchanted Rose for a pre or post-dinner cocktail.

Citricos is very lightly themed to Mary Poppins Returns (2018), but the character inspiration is so subtle it will not take away from the opulent dining experience. With entrees ranging in price from $34 for the House Made Rigatoni to $58 for the New York Strip, Citricos will be much easier on the wallet than its next-door neighbor. The restaurant also offers delicious enhancements like Truffle Macaroni and Cheese, and an extensive wine list that rivals Victoria & Albert’s, especially given the price difference.

Next up, we’re heading a couple of Monorail stops away for dinner at California Grill at the top of Disney’s Contemporary Resort. This signature dining experience is always a hit with Guests, especially if you are lucky enough to book your dinner reservation during the Magic Kingdom fireworks since the restaurant offers sweeping views of the Park.

California Grill is currently operating on a pre-fixe menu that is $89 per adult and $39 per child, which includes one appetizer, entree, and dessert per person, as well as fountain sodas, tea, and coffee. (But don’t worry, plenty of cocktails and a nice wine list are available if you are looking for a more exciting drink. It won’t help with the budget, but there is even a $137 cocktail just for the 50th Anniversary of Walt Disney World.)

The pre-fixe menu was added for the 50th Anniversary celebration, so the restaurant will likely return to its a la cart offerings when the 50th ends. For now, entrees include Oak Fired Filet of Beef, Grilled Pork Tenderloin and Black Grouper, along with plant-based options and some incredible appetizers and desserts.

Budget-Friendly Alternatives

Sometimes an upscale dining experience is truly what you make of it, rather than what the restaurant offers to begin with. You can always dress up, order a delicious cocktail, and take your time tasting multiple courses at nearly any restaurant at Walt Disney World. So even if you are looking for that special occasion type of experience, the options are truly endless for how you get there.

One of the best picks for a memorable dinner at a more reasonable price is Steakhouse 71 at Disney’s Contemporary Resort. The restaurant’s dinner menu features filet mignon for $37, a deal when compared to most of Disney’s higher-end steakhouses, and entrees on the lunch menu range from just $17 for the Gourmet Grilled Cheese to $26 for Steak Frites.

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The BOATHOUSE at Disney Springs is another great alternative to traditional Disney signature dining. While the menu does include pricier options as it’s packed with steak and seafood, there are plenty of delicious items here that won’t break the bank. One of the restaurant’s most popular entrees is the Filet Mignon Sliders, which only run $16. Plus, the restaurant offers classy nautical theming indoors and gorgeous waterfront views if you dine outdoors.

We hope these ideas help you plan your next signature dining experience at Walt Disney World, whether or not Victoria & Albert’s is within budget. Remember to book your dining reservations in advance, and to confirm dress codes with Disney’s official website, as signature restaurants outside of the theme parks may have certain requirements. Enjoy!