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Most Iconic Disney World Restaurants: Must-Dos for your First Trip

5 Most Iconic Disney World Restaurants

Planning your first trip to Disney World? With so many restaurants to choose from it can be really hard to decide where to eat! Here is our list of the top 5 most iconic restaurants you can’t miss on your first trip to Disney World! Keep reading to see the list:

Cinderella’s Royal Table

Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom

First, Cinderella’s Royal Table, also known as CRT, is one of Disney World’s most popular and famous restaurants. Located in Cinderella’s Castle in the middle of Magic Kingdom, there is no more iconic location for a restaurant! Here, you’ll dine with princesses in this magical setting fit for royalty. Though it’s one of the pricier options at Disney World, this restaurant is a must-do for princess fans. It’s also a must-do for anyone who wants to dine in the center of the magic!

If you are using the Disney Dining Plan, this restaurant takes two credits to eat here. Reservations can be hard to get, so if you need another great option try Akershus, located in Epcot. This restaurant offers a similar experience to CRT, but without the iconic castle location and at a more affordable price. 

Chef Mickey’s

Next, Chef Mickey’s is a classic meal at Disney World! Here you can dine with the most iconic characters of all: Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, Donald and Pluto! This bright, colorful and fun space is the perfect place to enjoy a meal as the monorail whizzes right by the restaurants. Meanwhile, the characters will periodically lead the diners in song, dance and the waving of colorful napkins, too! This buffet serves family-friendly American fare and is sure to be a hit with the kids. Visiting the Contemporary Resort for a meal at Chef Mickey’s is a must-do on your first trip to Disney World!

Reservations for Chef Mickey’s can be hard to get! If you aren’t able to snag one, here are some other great places where you can dine with members of the ‘Fab Five’: Tusker House, Hollywood & Vine (dinner only; breakfast is Disney Junior characters) and Cape May Cafe (characters at breakfast only).

Iconic Disney World Restaurants You Can't Miss on your Next Trip

Sci Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant

Third, at Hollywood Studios one of the most popular restaurants to experience is Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater. This iconic restaurant is known for its unique dining experience as it takes you back to the 50’s! You’ll sit in a car-shaped booth or table as you watch old sci-fi movies on the big screen! The all-American fare served here is delicious, and you’ll feel yourself immersed in the 1950’s as you enjoy this fun experience. It’s a great way to get off your feet, relax and enjoy a meal while keeping the kids entertained. This is a great option for anyone looking for a unique dining experience at Disney World!

Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater is another popular restaurant where reservations can be hard to get! If you aren’t lucky enough to grab a reservation, we’d also recommend the 50’s PrimeTime Cafe for another fun and immersive retro dining experience!

California Grill

Next, in addition to Chef Mickey’s, the Contemporary Resort is home to another iconic restaurant on our list! This signature dining experience is located at the top of the Contemporary Resort tower, with amazing views of the Seven Seas Lagoon and Magic Kingdom. If you can time it right, the restaurant has an incredible view of the fireworks! As you enjoy the views, you’ll dine on spectacular California flavors. California Grill is a classic WDW experience, and it’s especially perfect for a special occasion or an adult night out. This is a must-do at Disney World for those looking for that iconic experience!

If you are using the Disney Dining Plan, California Grill costs 2 credits. As a signature experience, reservations can be hard to get. Some other wonderful options would be Narcoossee’s, or Capa at the Four Seasons Orlando.

‘Ohana

Lobby at the Polynesian Resort

Lastly, located at the Polynesian Village Resort, ‘Ohana is another of the most iconic restaurants at Disney World. While being a completely different experience at Breakfast/Brunch and Dinner, both are equally worth a visit! At breakfast or brunch, you’ll enjoy a delightful feast of American fare inspired by Polynesian flavors. Breakfast is a character meal with Lilo and Stitch! At dinner, you’ll dine on delicious Polynesian-inspired specialties as you enjoy Hawaiian hospitality with lively games, music and fun. Regardless of which meal you choose, both are all-you-can-eat and served family style. A meal at ‘Ohana is an amazing addition to your Disney World vacation! 

Click here to read our review of our experience having dinner at ‘Ohana!

What do you think are the most iconic restaurants at Disney World?

After reading our list, do you agree with our choices? What do you think is the most iconic restaurant at Disney World? Let us know in the comments!

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Iconic Restaurants at Disney World - You have to eat here!

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