Best Food at Disney Springs

With a vibrant atmosphere and an endless array of culinary delights, Best Food at Disney Springs is a must-visit destination for any food enthusiast. From classic American comfort food to international cuisine, Disney Springs offers a diverse selection of dining options to suit every taste and budget.

In this article, we will explore the top-rated restaurants at Disney Springs, unique dining experiences, and the best desserts and snacks to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re a foodie, a thrill-seeker, or just looking for a memorable dining experience, Disney Springs has something for everyone.

Overview of Disney Springs

Disney Springs, previously known as Downtown Disney, is a shopping, dining, and entertainment district located at the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, USA. It serves as a central hub for guests to indulge in retail therapy, fine dining, and unique experiences within the resort. With its evolution over the years, Disney Springs has transformed into a vibrant and trendy destination that embodies the essence of Disney.

History and Evolution

The idea of a shopping and entertainment district at the Walt Disney World Resort dates back to the 1970s, when Walt Disney himself conceptualized a downtown area as a part of the resort’s Master Plan. However, it wasn’t until 1975 that the first phase of the project, known as Lake Buena Vista Shopping Village, began to take shape. Over the years, the area underwent several expansions and renovations, earning various names such as Disney Springs Promenade, Downtown Disney, and eventually, Disney Springs.

Key Milestones

The first phase of the shopping village opened in 1975 with a single cinema, a cinema complex, and a few shops. This marked the beginning of a sprawling entertainment district.
In the 1990s, Downtown Disney underwent significant renovations, introducing new attractions like DisneyQuest and a renovated AMC Downtown Disney 24 Theater.
In 2015, the area underwent a major overhaul, rebranding it as Disney Springs and expanding its offerings to include a mix of Disney-owned venues and third-party businesses.
Since its rebranding, Disney Springs has continued to expand and evolve, incorporating new experiences, restaurants, and entertainment options.

Transformation into Disney Springs

In 2017, the Walt Disney Company announced significant changes to the area, including the rebranding of the entire complex as Disney Springs. This shift was accompanied by a massive redevelopment effort, resulting in a reinvigorated atmosphere with new attractions, shopping experiences, and restaurants.

The Disney Springs area now stretches across 120 acres, featuring over 60 different shops and restaurants.
Unique experiences like build-your-own Disney-themed LEGO play areas and Disney’s immersive Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge are part of the Disney Springs landscape.
High-end retail and dining options like The Polite Pig, Disney’s first-ever NBA-themed sports bar, and an upgraded AMC Disney Springs 24 Dine-In Theatres have become major draws.
The addition of outdoor amphitheaters for live music performances has further enhanced the Disney Springs experience.

Food Options at Disney Springs

Disney Springs is a foodie’s paradise, offering a wide range of culinary delights that cater to various tastes and preferences. From classic American fare to international cuisine, you’ll find everything you need to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re in the mood for something casual and quick or a more upscale dining experience, Disney Springs has got you covered.

Disney-Owned Restaurants

Disney-owned restaurants are an integral part of the Disney Springs experience, offering a taste of Disney magic with every bite. Some of the most popular Disney-owned restaurants include:

The Boathouse – This waterfront restaurant serves up fresh seafood, steaks, and pasta dishes in a beautifully themed setting. Prices range from $20-$50 per entree.
The Polite Pig – This modern barbecue joint offers a variety of meats cooked to perfection, accompanied by creative sides and desserts. Prices range from $15-$30 per entree.
Enzo’s Hideaway – This hidden gem serves up Italian cuisine with a focus on house-made pastas and wood-fired dishes. Prices range from $20-$40 per entree.
Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar – This themed bar and restaurant offers a range of small plates and cocktails, inspired by the Indiana Jones franchise. Prices range from $10-$25 per entree.

Each of these restaurants offers a unique dining experience that is sure to delight.

Third-Party Establishments

Disney Springs is also home to a variety of third-party establishments that offer a range of cuisines and dining experiences. Some of the most popular third-party restaurants include:

The Edison – This industrial-chic restaurant serves up American cuisine with a focus on steaks, seafood, and pasta dishes. Prices range from $20-$40 per entree.
Raglan Road – This Irish pub offers a range of traditional pub fare, including fish and chips, burgers, and shepherd’s pie. Prices range from $10-$25 per entree.
Morimoto Asia – This pan-Asian restaurant offers a range of sushi, noodle dishes, and other Asian-inspired cuisine. Prices range from $15-$30 per entree.
Chicken Guy! – This quick-service restaurant serves up a variety of chicken dishes, including tenders, wings, and sandwiches. Prices range from $5-$15 per entree.

These third-party establishments offer a unique alternative to Disney-owned restaurants, with a focus on creativity and innovation.

Best Dining Experiences at Disney Springs

Disney Springs offers a variety of unique dining experiences that cater to different tastes and preferences. From character dining to special themed meals, guests can enjoy a memorable culinary experience amidst the vibrant atmosphere of Disney Springs.

Character Dining at Disney Springs

Disney Springs is known for its character dining experiences, where guests can meet and greet their favorite Disney characters while enjoying a delicious meal. Some of the popular character dining options at Disney Springs include:

Disney Junior Character Breakfast at The Garden Grill: This character breakfast features popular Disney Junior characters such as Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, and Goofy.
Hollywood & Vine: This character dining experience features Disney Junior characters, such as Sofia the First and Doc McStuffins, during the daytime hours.
The Boathouse: This upscale waterside dining experience offers a character breakfast featuring Scrooge McDuck.

Guests can book character dining experiences online or by calling (407) WDW-DINE.

Special Themed Meals at Disney Springs

Disney Springs also offers special themed meals that allow guests to immerse themselves in a unique culinary experience. Some of the popular themed meal options include:

T-Rex Cafe: This dinosaur-themed restaurant offers a prehistoric-inspired meal featuring dishes such as “T-Rex Burger” and “Dino Mite” chicken nuggets.
The Wave… of American Flavors: This beach-themed restaurant offers a surf-inspired meal featuring dishes such as “The Wave Burger” and “Surf and Turf” tacos.
The Polite Pig: This barbecue-themed restaurant offers a Southern-inspired meal featuring dishes such as “Pitmaster BBQ Ribs” and “The Polite Pig Burger.”

Guests can book themed meal experiences online or by calling (407) WDW-DINE.

In-Restaurant Entertainment

Many Disney Springs restaurants offer in-restaurant entertainment, such as live music and dancing, to enhance the guest experience. For example, The Polite Pig features a live DJ on weekends, while The Boathouse offers live music on certain evenings. Guests can check the restaurant’s schedule or website for specific entertainment offerings.

Other Dining Experiences

Disney Springs also offers other unique dining experiences, such as:

Table Service: Disney Springs features several table-service restaurants, such as Morimoto Asia and The Edison, that offer upscale dining experiences with extensive menus.
Quick Service: Disney Springs also features several quick-service restaurants, such as D-Luxe Burger and Blaze Fast-Fire’d Pizza, that offer fast and convenient dining options.

Guests can find more information about dining options and make reservations by visiting the Disney Springs website or by calling (407) WDW-DINE.

Dining for Special Diets at Disney Springs

Best Food at Disney Springs | PS UK Food

Dining for special diets requires careful planning and attention to details. At Disney Springs, guests with vegan, gluten-free, and low-calorie dietary needs will find a variety of options that cater to their requirements. The area offers a range of restaurants, cafes, and eateries that take into account different dietary restrictions, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a satisfying meal.

Whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or following a low-calorie diet, Disney Springs has plenty of options to choose from, including plant-based burgers, salads, and bowls at The Polite Pig, a slow-smoked barbecue restaurant with multiple locations around the country. Their extensive menu features creative takes on classic barbecue favorites.

Vegan Options

Vegan guests can indulge in a variety of plant-based dishes at Disney Springs restaurants, including:

The Boathouse: This upscale waterfront restaurant offers a vegan “lobster” roll made from a vegan lobster roll filling served on a toasted, split-top bun and accompanied by lettuce, tomato, and tartar sauce.
The Polite Pig: Their “Piggy’s Pimento” is a flavorful pimento cheese sandwich made without cheese, but with the same creamy texture and flavor. It comes served on sourdough bread and is also available as a gluten-free option.
The Edison: This historic-inspired restaurant offers a seasonal vegan menu that features dishes like a vegan “lobster” salad made with hearts of palm, vegan mayonnaise, and diced vegetables.

Gluten-Free Options

Guests with gluten intolerance or sensitivity can find plenty of options at Disney Springs restaurants, including:

The Boathouse: Their gluten-free “lobster” roll is made with a gluten-free bun and comes with a side of gluten-free tartar sauce.
The Edison: This restaurant offers a gluten-free menu that changes seasonally and features dishes like a gluten-free vegan “lobster” salad made with hearts of palm, vegan mayonnaise, and diced vegetables.
Chicken Guy!: This quick-service restaurant offers a gluten-free chicken sandwich made from a gluten-free bun.

Low-Calorie Options

For guests watching their calorie intake, Disney Springs offers several low-calorie options, including:

The Polite Pig: Their “Low-Calorie” menu features dishes like a grilled chicken breast served with roasted vegetables and quinoa, and a slow-cooked pork shoulder served with roasted vegetables and quinoa.
Chicken Guy!: This quick-service restaurant offers a low-calorie grilled chicken breast sandwich served on a gluten-free bun.
The Edison: This restaurant offers a seasonal low-calorie menu that features dishes like a grilled chicken breast served with roasted vegetables and quinoa.

Desserts and Snacks at Disney Springs: Best Food At Disney Springs

When it comes to sweet treats and snacks at Disney Springs, the possibilities are endless. From classic Disney favorites to seasonal offerings, you’ll find something to satisfy your cravings. With numerous options to choose from, you might find it challenging to decide which ones to try. But fear not, as we’ve got you covered with a list of the best desserts and snacks available at Disney Springs.

Classic Disney Desserts

Disney Springs is famous for its Disney-themed desserts, and some classic options include:

Dole Whip floats: A refreshing treat made with pineapple soft-serve ice cream and a variety of flavors, from classic pineapple to blue raspberry.
Popcorn: A classic Disney snack, available in a variety of flavors, including traditional butter and popcorn, cheese, and caramel.
Churros: Crunchy, sugary, and utterly delicious, churros are a Disney staple that can be enjoyed with or without a side of chocolate or caramel sauce.

These classic treats are widely available throughout Disney Springs and are sure to bring back fond memories of your Disney adventures.

Seasonal Desserts and Treats

Disney Springs loves to get creative with seasonal treats that tie in with the latest Disney franchises or holidays. Some seasonal favorites include:

Haunted Mansion-themed treats during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party: Enjoy spooky-themed cupcakes, cookies, and other sweet treats inspired by the Haunted Mansion.
Star Wars-themed desserts during Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser experiences: Get your hands on out-of-this-world treats inspired by the Star Wars universe, from galaxy-blue macarons to Death Star-shaped cookies.
Seasonal treats during the holidays: Disney Springs transforms during the holiday season, offering a variety of festive treats, such as gingerbread cookies, hot chocolate, and eggnog cheesecake.

Keep an eye out for these limited-time treats, which are sure to be seasonal hits.

Specialty Sweet Shops

For those who want to indulge in more unique and creative treats, Disney Springs offers several specialty sweet shops, including:

The Candy Cauldron: A shop inspired by the Haunted Mansion, featuring a variety of sweets, from candy apples to chocolates, in spooky-themed packaging.
Goofy’s Candy Company: A colorful candy shop where you’ll find all sorts of sweet treats, from candy, chocolates, and nuts to popcorn and cookies.
The Ganachery: A shop dedicated to all things chocolate, offering a selection of handmade chocolates, truffles, and other sweet treats.

These shops offer a taste experience unlike anywhere else in Disney Springs, featuring unique flavors and presentation that will leave you wanting more.

Where to Find These Sweet Treats

Disney Springs is a large entertainment complex with many locations, so it can be tricky to find everything. Here are some popular locations where you can find these sweet treats:

Market Street: A hub of activity on Disney Springs, with plenty of sweet treat options, including The Ganachery, Goofy’s Candy Company, and The Candy Cauldron.
The Landing: Located on the waterfront, this area features The Polite Pig, a barbecue restaurant with a variety of sweet treats, as well as a small shop selling seasonal treats and souvenirs.
The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin hotels: Even if you’re not staying at one of these upscale hotels, you can still visit their food court, which often features a variety of sweet treats, including those inspired by Disney franchises like Marvel and Star Wars.

Now that you know where to find these sweet treats, get ready to indulge in the sweet life at Disney Springs!

Tips for Dining at Disney Springs

When planning a trip to Disney Springs, making dining reservations is a crucial step in ensuring that you get to enjoy your favorite restaurants without any disappointments. Disney Springs offers a variety of dining options to cater to different tastes and preferences, but with a high demand for these restaurants, reserving a table in advance is advisable.

Booking Windows and Cancellation Policies

Disney Springs allows guests to make dining reservations up to 60 days in advance via the My Disney Experience app or by calling the Disney reservation line. When making your reservations, be sure to take note of the cancellation policies, which vary depending on the restaurant. Some restaurants have a strict cancellation policy and may charge a fee for cancellations made within a certain timeframe, while others may have a more flexible policy.

The Best Times to Dine at Disney Springs

To avoid crowds and long wait times, consider dining during off-peak hours. Typically, the best times to dine at Disney Springs are during the morning or late afternoon/early evening. Lunch at 11:30 am or 12:30 pm is a good idea, as the lunch crowd usually dies down around 1 pm. Dinner at 5:30 pm or 6:30 pm is also a good option, as the dinner crowd starts to build up around 7 pm.

Tips for Reducing Wait Times

To minimize your wait time at Disney Springs restaurants, consider the following tips:

Arrive early: Show up at the restaurant a few minutes before your scheduled time to get a good seat.
Download the My Disney Experience app: The app allows you to reserve a spot in line for popular restaurants and can help track wait times.
Consider a Character Dining Experience: Table-service restaurants like Chef Mickey’s and the Crystal Palace offer character meet-and-greets, which can be a great way to meet Disney characters while enjoying a meal.
Be flexible: Consider dining at off-peak hours or at a lesser-known restaurant to avoid long wait times.

Additional Tips for Dining at Disney Springs, Best food at disney springs

In addition to the above tips, consider the following when dining at Disney Springs:

Check the Disney Springs website for special events and closures: Some restaurants may be closed for special events or renovation, so it’s essential to check the website before making a reservation.
Look for special dining experiences: Disney Springs offers various special dining experiences, such as wine pairings and chef’s tables, which can be a fun and unique way to enjoy a meal.
Take advantage of the Disney Springs website: The website offers menus, reviews, and reservation information for all Disney Springs restaurants, making it easy to plan your dining experience.

Seasonal and Holiday Dining at Disney Springs

Disney Springs offers a unique and magical experience during holidays and seasonal events. The area transforms into a festive celebration, filled with special dining experiences, unique menu items, and limited-time offerings. From Halloween to Christmas, and from Food & Wine to Holiday events, Disney Springs has something special for everyone.

Dining Experiences During Peak Seasons

During peak seasons, such as Christmas and Halloween, Disney Springs offers a range of dining experiences that are sure to delight. The area is decked out in decorations, and the restaurants and eateries are filled with special menu items and festive atmosphere.

The gantries at The Boathouse are transformed with a festive holiday decor and offering special seasonal menu items, including holiday-themed burgers and seafood dishes.
The Disney Springs location of The Polite Pig offers a limited-time holiday menu, featuring seasonal dishes such as smoked prime rib, sweet potato casserole, and pecan pie.
The Disney Springs location of Morimoto Asia offers a special holiday menu, featuring dishes such as foie gras, lobster, and Wagyu beef tenderloin.

Special Menu Items and Events

In addition to special dining experiences, Disney Springs also offers a range of special menu items and events during peak seasons. From seasonal drinks to holiday-themed treats, there’s something for everyone.

The Gantries at The Boathouse offers a special holiday-themed cocktail, the “Sleigh All Day,” featuring gingerbread-infused bourbon and topped with whipped cream.
The Disney Springs location of The Polite Pig offers a special seasonal dessert, the “Sweet Potato Casserole,” featuring a sweet potato crust, marshmallow-strewn whipped cream, and caramel sauce.
The Disney Springs location of Morimoto Asia offers a special holiday-themed sushi roll, the “Hanukkah Hanukkah Roll,” featuring spicy tuna, crab, and avocado, topped with gold leaf and served with a side of pickled ginger.

Booking Special Dining Experiences

If you’re interested in trying one of these special dining experiences or special menu items, be sure to book your table in advance. You can make reservations online or by calling (407) WDW-DINE.

The earlier you book, the better your chances of securing a table at one of these special dining experiences.

Future Developments and Changes at Disney Springs

Disney Springs continues to evolve and expand, offering new experiences for guests. From restaurants and shops to entertainment and amenities, Disney Springs is a destination within Walt Disney World Resort that is constantly changing and adapting to meet the needs and interests of its visitors. Recent announcements and plans indicate that there will be several new additions to Disney Springs in the near future.

New Restaurants and Dining Experiences

One of the most exciting developments at Disney Springs is the introduction of new restaurants and dining experiences. The Disney Springs area has already seen the arrival of several new eateries, including a Disney-themed food hall, The Void and a new location for popular restaurant D-Luxe Burger. According to recent reports, several more restaurants and dining options are planned for the area, including a celebrity chef-led eatery and a new location for the popular Italian restaurant, Il Mulino New York Trattoria.

The Void, an immersive entertainment venue that combines food, drink, and virtual reality experiences, has opened its doors to Disney Springs guests.
A new location of the popular burger joint D-Luxe Burger offers a wide variety of creative burger options.
Il Mulino New York Trattoria, a new upscale Italian restaurant, brings authentic Italian cuisine to Disney Springs.

The addition of new restaurants and dining experiences at Disney Springs will impact the dining experience in several ways. First, the increased dining options will allow guests to explore different cuisines and flavors throughout their visit. Second, the introduction of new restaurants will help to create a more vibrant and dynamic atmosphere at Disney Springs, encouraging guests to linger and enjoy the area.

Mobility and Accessibility Improvements

Another area of focus for Disney Springs is the enhancement of mobility and accessibility options. Recent improvements have included the creation of a new entrance to the area and upgrades to the parking lot, making it easier for guests to navigate and access the shops, restaurants, and entertainment options within Disney Springs. According to recent reports, additional mobility and accessibility improvements are planned for the area, including a new pedestrian bridge.

A new entrance to Disney Springs provides easier access for guests.
The parking lot has been upgraded, offering improved accessibility and convenience for visitors.
A new pedestrian bridge will connect the Disney Springs area to nearby resorts and attractions.

The improvements to mobility and accessibility at Disney Springs will have a significant impact on the overall guest experience. By making it easier for guests with mobility or accessibility needs to navigate and access the area, Disney can create a more inclusive and welcoming environment for all visitors.

For guests with mobility or accessibility needs, it’s worth noting that Disney Springs continues to offer a range of accessibility accommodations and services, including wheelchair and ECV rentals, sign language interpretation, and more. Guests are encouraged to contact Disney in advance to make any necessary arrangements for their visit.

These developments demonstrate Disney Springs’ commitment to innovation, creativity, and inclusivity. As the area continues to evolve and expand, it’s clear that Disney Springs remains a premier destination for dining, entertainment, and shopping in the Walt Disney World Resort.

Final Conclusion

As you wrap up your dining experience at Disney Springs, remember to save room for the best desserts and snacks. From classic treats like Dole Whip to seasonal offerings like the famous Mickey Waffle, there’s always something new to try. Thank you for joining us on this culinary journey through the Best Food at Disney Springs!

General Inquiries

What is the best restaurant at Disney Springs?

The best restaurant at Disney Springs is Morimoto Asia, a pan-Asian restaurant owned by celebrity chef Masaharu Morimoto. This sleek and modern restaurant serves a wide variety of dishes, from sushi and ramen to stir-fries and curries.

Can I make reservations at Disney Springs?

Yes, you can make reservations at Disney Springs using the My Disney Experience app or by calling (407) WDW-DINE. Reservations can be made up to 60 days in advance for most restaurants.

Are there any vegan options at Disney Springs?

Yes, many restaurants at Disney Springs offer vegan options, including The Polite Pig, which serves a variety of plant-based barbecue dishes. You can also ask your server at any restaurant for vegan options.

Can I purchase Disney Springs food merchandise?

Yes, you can purchase Disney Springs food merchandise at various stores throughout the complex, including The Candy Cauldron and Basin.

Is Disney Springs open late?

Yes, many restaurants and shops at Disney Springs are open late, often until 12:00 AM or later. However, some restaurants may have limited hours or close early, so it’s best to check with your server for hours.