Splurge-Worthy Restaurants At Walt Disney World Hotels

Disney dining is one of the most looked forward to events of a Walt Disney World vacation. Guests book their reservations way in advance just to be able to savor the delicious flavors of their favorite Disney restaurants. While many park guests are often on a budget, sometimes it’s nice to splurge on the high-end restaurants at the Disney Resort hotels. You are on vacation after all! Here are ten splurge worthy restaurants at several Walt Disney World Resort hotels.

10. Toledo – Tapas, Steak & Seafood

Toledo, located at the top of the Gran Destino Tower at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort is an absolute must-do splurge! Come hungry to enjoy the several plates available beginning with the delicious tapas of course. The appetizers, entrees, and desserts are outstanding as is the restaurant’s atmosphere and superb service. Oh, and let’s not forget about the fantastic cocktails, wine list, and stunning views. Toledo may be the newbie on this list but it shouldn’t be overlooked.

9. Boma

Jambo, and welcome to the flavors of Africa at Boma, a replica of a lively African marketplace in Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. Here, guests can enjoy some of the most exotic flavors of African cuisine that aren’t offered anywhere else on the Walt Disney World property. In addition to its unique décor, Boma serves a family style buffet for breakfast and lunch that will surely make your mouth water. For breakfast, you must try their famous juice (which is a combination of guava, passion fruit, and orange juice) that is simply out of this world. There are also an array of breakfast items and various meat selections. Dinner is where you’re going to really be able to savor those distinct flavors with a wide array of stews and soups, salads, various cuts of meat, exclusive side items, and of course, the ever popular zebra domes for dessert. Even though this can be a bit pricey for a family, it is all you can eat after all! Trust me, it is totally worth a visit!

8. California Grill

Looking for something romantic or chic to indulge in? Head on over to the California Grill, located at Disney’s Contemporary Resort. This newly renovated, award-winning restaurant offers some of the finest Californian cooking as you take in the breath taking sights of the Magic Kingdom. Guests can enjoy exquisite cuisine for brunch and dinner, or, they can hang out in the lounge and bar for a drink or two. If you’re thinking of enjoying dinner here, you will be able to choose from various appetizers, an assortment of cheeses and charcuterie, sushi, soups and salads, beef, meat, and fish options, and a plethora of dessert options. This is truly the best place to check out the fireworks because the actual music that correlates to the firework show is synched into the restaurant– leaving nothing to the imagination. While this restaurant does offer a kids menu, I recommend it for adults. You won’t regret choosing the California Grill as your next dining stop!

7. Yachtsman Steakhouse

Ahoy mates, and welcome to the Yacht and Beach club where New England style is evident no matter where you turn. This resort is host to one of the most popular elegant restaurants at the Disney World resorts, the Yachtsman Steakhouse. The charm of this New England style steak house will truly make you feel like you are on a cruise ship sailing in the ocean (without the ship rocking, of course) with its deep wood accents, pine beams, nautical touches, and circular windows. Here, guests can indulge in some of the finest steaks, signature appetizers and charcuterie, seafood options, divine side items, and a killer dessert menu. Like the California Grill, I highly recommend this restaurant for adults. The menus at both of these restaurants are for diverse palettes and may not be appealing to the little ones. Another great aspect to the location of this restaurant is that you’re only a short walk away from the Boardwalk resort and Epcot!

6. Il Mulino

Ciao, and welcome to the Italian flavors of Il Mulino, a signature dining experience located at the Swan and Dolphin Resort. This exquisite trattoria offers traditional Italian dishes that are sure to please the bellies of your entire party. The sophistication of the modern décor and warm wood accents are a perfect way to unwind after a long park day. Il Mulino is open for dinner only, and offers classic favorites such as lasagna, chicken parmesan, eggplant, and of course, a plethora of pasta options to name a few. There is so much to enjoy at this amazing Italian eatery!

5. Spirit of Aloha

Who doesn’t love a great dinner with a show? Hang ten at the Spirit of Aloha dinner show over at Disney’s Polynesian resort. This luau Polynesian show will make your jaw drop as you witness authentic hula dancing, fire dancers, knife performers and awesome music. The audience is also included in the show as well. While you watch this show, you will feast on family style dining that includes platters of authentic dishes, pulled pork, BBQ ribs, veggies, chicken, and one of my personal favorites, traditional pineapple coconut bread. This show is truly enlightening for the whole family!

4. Jiko

Just across from Boma at the Animal Kingdom Lodge, lies Jiko. This exquisite dining experience boasts wood-burning ovens, authentic South African Wines, and vibrant spices. It’s sure to make you feel like you’re in the heart of Africa. This restaurant offers African, Indian, and Mediterranean cuisine for dinner. Choose from various appetizers, an assortment of cheeses, soups and salads, various cuts of beef and seafood, vegan options, and authentic desserts that are exclusive to this resort. This restaurant is very elegant and infuses colors that reflect the continent of Africa. While it is geared more for adults, there is a kid’s menu for the little ones. Should you choose to dine here, you can enjoy watching some of the animals in the savannah prior to or after your dinner. Jiko is also the host restaurant of the Wanhyama Safari, an amazing up close experience with animals on the safari prior to a multi course meal here. If this is something you may be interested in, be sure to book your reservation early! This safari is truly one of a kind!

3. Narcoossee’s

The Grand Floridian is one of the most elegant and highly rated deluxe resorts on property, so it’s no wonder their food is top notch. Narcoossee’s is a waterfront setting with spectacular views of the Magic Kingdom. The coastal cuisine here is one of the best on Disney property. Spoil yourself with fresh seafood options, top of the line steak and filet, grilled veggies and an extensive dessert list. The music from the Magic Kingdom Firework Show is synched into Narcoosse’s, making it another great place to experience the fireworks without being crowded at the park. The Electric Water Pageant that takes place nightly at the resort is also visible from the restaurant.

2. Citricos

Just around the river bend from Narcoossee’s is Citricos, a signature dining experience that offers American and Mediterranean flavors that are accompanied by an award wining wine list. What is really unique about Citricos is that the menu often changes to include cyclical offerings. Choose from seasonal seafood and meat options, vegetables, and desserts. This restaurant is very inviting with its warm tones and lighting making it very cozy. There is even a private dining room where guests can enjoy a multi course meal while meeting the chef. There are also options to dine with an imaginer in this private setting! How cool does that sound?!

1. Victoria & Albert’s

Amongst all of the splurge worthy restaurants on Disney World property, Victoria & Albert’s has to be the number one on most guests lists. Its award-winning Victorian elegance is by far the finest in the entire resort. Like Narcoossee’s, this is a very intimate and romantic setting, so you will also probably witness a proposal here. Guests can enjoy options such as caviar, turbot, black bass, duck, Berkshire pork, veal, beef tenderloin, assorted cheeses, and mouth-watering desserts. It’s no wonder the reviews are always nothing less than five stars. This is the ultimate splurge worthy dining experience!

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