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Beyond Character Dining: 5 of the Best Disney World Restaurants for Families

Beyond Character Dining: 5 of the Best Disney World Restaurants for Families

Disney World operates a staggering number of restaurants on property. It can be tempting to scrimp on “downtime” at the parks in favor of running from attraction to attraction, but we say this is a rookie mistake. Instead, gather your loved ones around the table and remember that above all else, you are there to enjoy one another. We promise Disney will sprinkle a little pixie dust all over your breakfast, lunch, or dinner. From snowy, enchanted mornings at Beast’s Castle to the wilds of the African Savannah, each of these venues is delightfully memorable in its own way. We’ve looked beyond character dining to show you some of the best Disney World restaurants for families. 

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Best Disney World Restaurants for Families

5. The 50s Prime Time Cafe in Hollywood Studios

best disney world restaurants for families 50s prime time cafe

Photo by: Tarlie Harris

One of the best Disney World restaurants for families is kicking it old school. Located in Disney’s Hollywood Studios, The 50s Prime Time Cafe specializes in classic home cookin’ served by your long lost “cousin” that may need to work on his or her manners. Star menu items include pot roast, fried chicken, and milkshakes. Yum.

That’s the predictable part. As for the service, you really have to see it for yourself because there’s no telling what might happen at mama’s house today. However, we do know the kids are bound to giggle at the ridiculous behavior of some of your brand new family members. Arm the kids with sarcasm, a few jokes, and a mischievous glint in their eye to see if they can give this tricks-up-their-sleeve staff a run for their money.

4. Raglan Road in Disney Springs

best disney world restaurants for kids

Photo by: Tarlie Harris

Get ready for a foot-stompin’ good time at this high energy Irish pub in Disney Springs. Live Irish music and dancing take center stage every night at Raglan Road. Sometimes the kids join in on stage, so grab a pint because you won’t be rushed out of this place! You can’t go wrong with the battered cocktail sausages followed with creamy Irish risotto. We love Disney Springs because it puts you inside the Disney bubble but doesn’t cost you a park ticket.

3. Sanaa at the Animal Kingdom Lodge

best Disney World Restaurants for families

Photo by: Tarlie Harris

A taste of India. Actually, nine in the case of Sanaa‘s Indian-style Bread Service. Do not skip this appetizer! It features several different kinds of naan, because who doesn’t love naan? Add in 9 delicious sauces to dip it in, and your taste buds will be dancing in delight. It’s almost guaranteed you will discover a new favorite from this wonderful assortment. The magic of Sanaa’s aesthetic is that it looks out over its own private African savanna. Arrive early to spot resident giraffe, cattle, and antelope that live on property. If it’s dark out already, Disney’s got your back with night-vision goggles, a campfire, and guides ready to tell you all about their home countries. 

Is this your first trip to Disney World? Has it been a while since your last trip? Check out all our best Disney World tips. 

2. The World Showcase at Epcot

Best Disney World restaurants for families

Photo by: Tarlie Harris

Some of the most accessible and delicious food inside the Disney parks is found at the World Showcase in Epcot. It is irresistibly fun to taste your way around the world! Each country has specialty dishes readily available at grab-and-go locations.

Start with brats in Germany, share a slice in Italy, dig into a shawarma platter in Morocco…you get the idea. Obviously, the patisserie in France is an absolute must for dessert. If everyone just has a few bites as you go around, you get an extravagant-feeling evening for a not-so-extravagant price. The kids will absolutely insist you make it all the way around the world just to see what’s next! Time it right and you’ll be perfectly located to wrap up dinner with Epcot’s nightly show on the World Showcase Lagoon.

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1. Be Our Guest Restaurant in the Magic Kingdom

best Disney World restaurants for kids

Photo by: Tarlie Harris

Be Our Guest and enter Beast’s Castle, nestled beside a waterfall in eternally snow-capped mountains and protected by gargoyles. Find a table in one of the three dining rooms where either the massive chandeliers sparkle, the enchanted rose glistens, or Belle and the Beast dance forever.

No matter where you sit, make sure to take a look in each one of the stunning rooms. A few minutes after you sit, French-inspired food will arrive in the fanciest little trolley cart you have ever seen. We especially love starting our day with breakfast at the castle. The egg sandwich is perfectly executed, the pastries are indulgent, and nothing beats morning coffee with royalty. While breakfast and lunch are quick service, dinner is a prix fixe, table service meal.

There is so much more to Disney than rides! Disney World lets you make dining reservations up to 180 days in advance. Take full advantage and plan your days around these fabulous, family dining experiences. 

Ready to plan your ultimate Disney Vacation? We have all the tips to make your trip memorable and successful!