One of the great experiences to be had at Disney World is resort hopping. When you set aside a day for exploring resorts, you can enjoy some down time away from the parks. You take in new sights and experiences, including unique dining. You don’t have to stay at a particular hotel in order to eat there, so you can plan your dining anywhere you want despite your home resort. On the other hand, the convenience of being near a certain restaurant may be a factor in the resort you choose to ultimately stay at. Either way, as you plan your next trip, remember these Disney resorts with the best restaurants.
Contemporary
The Contemporary is home to some of the most coveted restaurants on Disney property. This is where Chef Mickey’s delights and entertains families with a buffet and character experiences. While many resorts offer character dining, Chef Mickey’s is the most sought after and it’s walking distance from the Magic Kingdom gate. Next to Chef Mickey’s is Contempo Cafe which is prized for its great selection of grab and go offerings. The Wave…of American Flavors is a fabulous restaurant full of panache. However it is nothing compared to the most highly regarded restaurant on property California Grill. This jewel sits on top of the hotel and offers a sweeping view of the Magic Kingdom and the Seven Seas Lagoon in addition to it’s amazing menu. The options across the board put Contemporary on top among resorts with the best restaurants.
Polynesian Village
Across the lagoon from the Contemporary are more resorts with the best restaurants within a try resort monorail loop. One is Polynesian Village. Like the Contemporary resort it offers one of the most popular character dining experiences. The food at Ohana is kid friendly but has a slightly more exotic flare. The Polynesian village has an assortment of highly sought after items like the Tonga Toast atone Cafe, Dole Whip at Pineapple Lanai, or outrageous cocktails at Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto and Tambu Lounge. Captain. Cook’s is also known for having the delicious quick service.
Grand Floridian
As one of the big three monorail resorts in front of Magic Kingdom, the Grand Floridian does not disappoint where it comes to dining. The elegant stature of the resort lends itself to the fanciest dining available. However you can still enjoy a casual quick service, or a Character Buffet amidst the atmosphere of refinement. The crown Jewel here is Victoria and Albert’s. The only AAA five diamond restaurant on property. As the most honored restaurant at Disney Victoria and Alberts alone puts Grand Floridian on the map among other resorts with the best restaurants.
Animal Kingdom Lodge
Despite its location Animal Kingdom Lodge has a lot going for it. There are enough experiences and great dining locations to spend entire days just appreciating the resort. Animal Kingdom Lodge provides guests three of the most highly regarded restaurants in Disney World. Boma is a buffet with a mix of exotic and familiar foods, which is perfect for introducing any palette to the culture. Jiko is a sophisticated signature restaurant with an elevated menu that will appeal to many and Sanaa if a flavorful blend of Indian and African cuisine, known best for its bread service and accompaniments.
Boardwalk
Boardwalk is also a Deluxe resort and it sits in a prime location within walking distance of two parks and two other resort hotels. It has a stretch of restaurants along the boardwalk that offer wonderful experiences for couples and families alike. The Boardwalk offers great Italian food at Trattoria Al Forno. At breakfast becomes one of the best character experiences. Flying Fish is one of the best restaurants on property. ESPN Zone also resides here along with the casual but terrific Big River Grille and Brewing Works.
