The Disney World Restaurants Every First-Time Visitor Should Experience

First-time visitors to Walt Disney World are in for a magical treat—and not just from the rides! The dining experiences here are immersive, memorable, and brimming with Disney magic. With over 200 places to eat, planning where to dine can feel overwhelming. But don’t worry, we’ve rounded up the top 12 must-try restaurants that offer something special—whether it’s character dining, themed environments, or family-style meals.

Let’s dive into the must-do dining experiences for first-time Disney guests!

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

A trip to Disney isn’t complete without some character dining, and Chef Mickey’s is an absolute must for first-timers. Located at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, Chef Mickey’s serves up a delicious buffet for breakfast and dinner, with none other than Mickey Mouse, Minnie, Donald, Goofy, and Pluto stopping by for autographs and photos! With great food and the classic characters, it’s a perfect way to dive into the Disney magic.

2. Be Our Guest – Magic Kingdom

Dining inside the Beast’s Castle? Yes, please! Be Our Guest is a stunning French-inspired restaurant in Magic Kingdom’s Fantasyland, offering a prix-fixe menu in an atmosphere straight out of Beauty and the Beast. Whether you dine in the elegant ballroom, the spooky West Wing, or the grand gallery, every meal feels like a royal feast. Keep an eye out for the Beast himself making an appearance!

3. ’Ohana – Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

At ‘Ohana, “family” is everything—this Polynesian-style restaurant is perfect for first-time visitors craving a unique, hearty meal. Whether you’re there for the breakfast with characters like Lilo and Stitch, or the dinner featuring grilled meats, noodles, and pineapple-coconut bread pudding, you’ll leave with both your belly and heart full. Plus, the tropical ambiance of Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort is a perfect escape from the parks.

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

For a truly retro experience, head to Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater in Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Here, you’ll sit in vintage-style cars while watching classic sci-fi clips on a giant screen. The setting feels like a nighttime drive-in movie under the stars! The menu features classic American favorites like burgers, sandwiches, and milkshakes—perfect for families and nostalgia-lovers alike.

5. Cinderella’s Royal Table – Magic Kingdom

One of the most iconic Disney dining experiences, Cinderella’s Royal Table invites you to dine inside Cinderella Castle with a royal menu and a visit from Disney Princesses. From Snow White to Jasmine, you’ll feel like royalty yourself as you enjoy breakfast, lunch, or dinner in this regal setting. For first-timers, dining in the castle is an absolute must!

6. Tusker House – Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Over at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Tusker House offers a safari-themed character meal featuring Donald Duck and friends, all dressed up in their best safari gear. The buffet-style menu offers delicious African-inspired dishes for adventurous eaters, while still providing familiar options for picky eaters. The vibrant, open-air setting adds to the magic of this one-of-a-kind dining experience.

7. Garden Grill – EPCOT

If you’re looking for character dining in EPCOT, Garden Grill is the place to be! Located in the Land Pavilion, this rotating restaurant offers fresh, farm-to-table dishes, some of which are grown right in EPCOT. Best of all, you get to meet Chip ‘n’ Dale, Mickey, and Pluto while you eat! The restaurant slowly rotates, giving you a changing view of the Living with the Land attraction below.

8. Coral Reef Restaurant – EPCOT

For a dining experience that feels like you’re exploring the ocean’s depths, head to Coral Reef Restaurant in EPCOT’s Future World. With giant windows into an underwater world, you’ll be dining alongside sharks, sea turtles, and hundreds of tropical fish. While seafood is the star of the menu, there are plenty of options for non-seafood lovers, making it a must-do for families looking for something unique.

9. Yak & Yeti – Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Nestled in the Asia section of Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Yak & Yeti offers a taste of Asian fusion cuisine in a beautifully themed environment. Whether you’re craving stir-fried dishes, curries, or American-Asian fusion, this restaurant delivers a variety of bold flavors in a stunning, richly detailed setting. It’s the perfect spot for families looking for something a little more adventurous!

10. Liberty Tree Tavern – Magic Kingdom

Step back in time to Colonial America with a meal at Liberty Tree Tavern in Liberty Square at Magic Kingdom. This family-style restaurant serves up a Thanksgiving-style feast with turkey, mashed potatoes, and all the fixings. The homey, historical setting makes it a cozy and satisfying option, and the all-you-care-to-enjoy meal means you won’t leave hungry!

11. Akershus Royal Banquet Hall – EPCOT

If you didn’t snag a reservation at Cinderella’s Royal Table, Akershus Royal Banquet Hall in EPCOT’s Norway Pavilion is the next best thing. This beautiful, Norwegian-inspired restaurant offers a princess-filled character meal, where you can meet beloved royals like Belle, Aurora, and Ariel. The menu features both Norwegian specialties and more familiar dishes, making it perfect for first-timers wanting a royal experience.

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

End your day with a sweet treat at the Beaches & Cream Soda Shop at Disney’s Beach Club Resort. This vintage-inspired soda shop is famous for its over-the-top ice cream sundaes, especially the iconic Kitchen Sink, which serves four—and maybe even more! With classic American dishes like burgers and fries, plus a ton of ice cream treats, it’s a great spot for both kids and adults to indulge their sweet tooth.

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Ready to Plan Your First-Time Disney Dining Adventure?

Whether you’re seeking character meals, immersive environments, or family-style feasts, Walt Disney World offers dining experiences that turn meals into magical memories. Make sure to book your reservations in advance, and remember: the food is as much a part of the magic as the attractions! These 12 must-try restaurants will give first-time visitors a taste of the best Disney dining has to offer.

So, which dining experience will you choose for your first Walt Disney World adventure? Let us know in the comments!