The parks themselves could hardly contain the magic of Disney. Once known as Downtown Disney, the Disney Springs area is where visitors take some downtime from their vacation. With many shops, eats, and experiences, Disney Springs resembles a swanky, Disney-fied outdoor mall.
Being the stubborn (if migrated) Chicagoan I am, I still want to call Disney Springs Downtown Disney even years after the name change. It feels like the Sears Tower vs. Willis Tower battle to me.
Anyway, vacationing at Walt Disney World hardly seems complete without a visit to Disney Springs. Whether you’re clamoring at World of Disney for the latest Mousekateer merch or waiting in line for Gideon Bakehouse’s cult favorite cookies or some fried chicken from Chicken Guy, the Springs has something for everyone. That’s certainly true with the area’s vast area of restaurants too!
Resort transportation will take you straight to Disney Springs if you’re staying on Walt Disney World property. However, there is also plenty of parking for those driving themselves. Either way, getting to the Springs is a breeze.
Not to be outdone, Disney World prides itself on the range of food offerings for guests. The theme parks are packed with food carts, but Disney Springs is where you’ll find some of the best restaurants at Disney.
You can even find some food trucks around too, but this is not a chain restaurant sort of location – although Rainforest Cafe or Planet Hollywood might beg to differ. From casual to fine dining (or Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ for a combination of the two), these are undoubtedly the best restaurants in Disney Springs to add some magic to your Disney World vacation.
Disney Springs Dining Pro-Tips
In terms of variety and quality, dining in Disney Springs is pretty similar to going on something like a San Francisco food tour. At the same time, you’re going to find yourself in a self-contained world of good eats where the regular rules of dining out don’t necessarily apply. Here are a few pro tips, tricks, and hacks for grabbing grub in Disney Springs.
- Disney Springs restaurants are usually busy, and even during non-peak Disney World tourist days, it’ll probably be busy. If you plan to dine at one of the table service restaurants, make a reservation ahead of time.
- Don’t forget about your reservations. Walt Disney World can charge no-show fees per person.
- Restaurants recommending reservations can be made via the My Disney Experience app.
- Visiting Disney Springs is free, and so is the parking.
- If you visit a table service location, don’t forget to tip your staff.
- You can add special events like anniversaries or birthdays to your reservation via the My Disney Experience app or by contacting the restaurant directly.
- Many, but not all, of the restaurants at Disney Springs offer take-out.
- Rainy days are often the busiest days at Disney Springs.
Best Restaurants in Disney Springs
1. Enzo’s Hideaway
Address: 1560 E Buena Vista Dr, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32380
Reservations Recommended
These restaurants aren’t listed in any particular order except for Enzo’s Hideaway, which is my favorite dining spot in Disney Springs. Enzo’s is a charmer who is cozily packed underground to mimic a Prohibition-era speakeasy. Between the theming, the drinks, and the food, I would go so far as to say Enzo’s is one of the best restaurants at Disney.
Make your way through a rum-runner tunnel before emerging into the dining room, which embodies a warm Italian eatery. Even if you’re coming for an Enzo’s Rum Punch or Limoncello Gimlet, you’ll be swept up in the 1920s vibe.
But happy hour wouldn’t be complete without at least one order of Polpettine (braised meatballs). You can thank me later.
Food menus feature standard Italian fare or pasta dishes such as Eggplant Parmigiana and Spaghetti e Polpette (spaghetti and meatballs.) Don’t miss the tiramisu, either! It may not be a Mickey bar, though it’s magical in its own way.
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2. The Daily Poutine
Address: 1674 E Buena Vista Dr A, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32380
The Daily Poutine is a Disney Springs counter service restaurant dedicated to the holy grail of North American comfort food: gravy smothered cheese curds over fries, with toppings. I can never resist good poutine, and you can trust this born-and-raised Wisconsinite here when I say the cheese curds get the royal treatment at The Daily Poutine.
Here you can order the traditional Quebec style of the beloved street food with beef gravy, french fries, and cheese curds. Or, for those with more adventurous palettes, you can snag one of their poutine varietals.
The Korean Barbecue version includes fries decked with pulled pork, kimchi, and Sriracha Aïoli. Either way, you’re getting some tasty bites at a reasonable price.
As a counter service restaurant, there aren’t reserved tables. There are, however, tables outside the ordering area that guests can use on a first-come, first-served basis. If you didn’t get your fill of poutine in Canada at Epcot, or even if you did as the poutine limit does not exist, be sure to stop by The Daily Poutine on your Disney Springs excursion.
3. The Boathouse
Address: 1620 E Buena Vista Dr, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32380
Reservations Recommended
When visiting Disney Springs, particularly on your first visit, you might notice something odd in Lake Buena Vista. Don’t worry; your eyes aren’t deceiving you! If you see some classic cars bobbing through the water, those are the amphibious Amphicars living near The Boathouse. These retro dream boats can be seen zipping around the lake whenever the weather allows. Be sure to look into taking a lake drive if you’ve got the time.
More upscale than some of the other table service restaurants at Disney Springs, The Boathouse offers a more traditional steak and seafood experience. Guests can order oysters and fresh fish or filet mignon sliders.
Daily specials also curate new experiences for frequent dockside guests. If you have a sweet tooth, try The Boathouse’s key lime pie before you head out.
Kiddos are also more than welcome with their own menu to tantalize even the pickiest tastebuds. Chicken tenders or popcorn shrimp are two options for these pint-sized sailors!
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4. Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’
Address: 1602 E Buena Vista Dr, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
Reservations Recommended
Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ refers to itself as “upscale down south.” A restaurant inspired by Florida’s vast agricultural history, celebrity chef Art Smith curated this spot to honor that legacy. This is Walt Disney World’s farm-to-table experience.
Other Disney Springs restaurants have expansive cocktail menus, and chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ has something similar with a Floridian flair–a moonshine menu. Snag a flight or share among friends, or you might wander off to Neverland before dessert.
Southern comfort (the aesthetic, not the bourbon-based beverage) is the key to Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ having such an endeared fan base. With Art’s Famous Fried Chicken spearheading the menu, Thigh High Chicken Biscuits or the Church Lady Deviled Eggs bringing up the rear, and a variety of southern cuisine favorites in between, you’ll find yourself in that fan base after dinner.
5. Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant
Address: 1640 Buena Vista Dr, Orlando, FL 32830
Reservations Recommended
Ireland is one of my favorite places on Earth, so Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant at Disney Springs has a special place in my heart. Not only do they serve a mean shepherd’s pie, but they also serve Powers whiskey–the best Irish Whiskey, in my humble opinion.
According to my once tour guide at the Whiskey Museum in Dublin, Powers is the authentic Irish Whiskey, but they didn’t have the marketing that Jameson did. I think this is just as well, as it gives Powers that hidden gem status, which definitely adds to the flavor.
Disney Springs isn’t a stay-all-night kind of place, though Raglan Road stays open until 11:30 pm most nights. That makes it a great place for a nightcap after leaving the parks. Or even a final stop on a walkabout of Disney Springs!
Sure, Ireland isn’t exactly known as a world-class foodie place – in fact, it’s largely the opposite. Most of the food you’ll find at Raglan Road Irish Pub is simple, and inoffensive, though classic.
But where else at Walt Disney World will you feel the velvety embrace of a Celtic song or feel compelled to talk in an Irish brogue to embarrass your friends? Nowhere.
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6. Terralina Crafted Italian
Address: 1650 E Buena Vista Dr, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
Reservations Recommended
Another Disney Springs spot for Italian nosh, Terralina Crafted Italian is a more casual table service restaurant. Offering favorites for all ages, like pizza and chicken parmesan sandwiches, Terralina is an excellent stop for families.
This table service restaurant says it was “inspired by Italy’s Lake District.” Right.
While Lake Buena Vista is nice, it doesn’t quite hold a candle to lakes en Italia. All the same, the food will transport you far across the ocean. Just be sure to save some mozzarella-stuffed rice balls for me!
When the over-dramatic Florida weather allows, Terralina also has an outdoor veranda bar to enjoy! Cocktails and the restaurant’s extensive wine menu are available on the veranda. Regardless of where they are in the area, restaurants at Disney Springs tend to have lovely outdoor views.
7. Morimoto Asia Street Food
Address: 1600 E Buena Vista Dr, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
Reservations Recommended
The full name of this restaurant might be Morimoto Asia Street Food, but this is far from a food truck experience. An Asian fusion experience that was granted a Michelin Star in 2008, and this restaurant earned that honor because of the inventiveness of Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto.
Morimoto Asia combines Korean, Japanese, and Chinese influences into a genuinely pan-Asian experience. What visits here truly spectacular is the view of the restaurant’s exhibition kitchen where you can see the staff creating their dishes.
While you’re in the glittering gallery of culinary delights that is Morimoto Asia, why not try the Morimoto Peking Duck? Or find out for yourself why folks adore their ramen!
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8. House of Blues
Address: 1490 E Buena Vista Dr, Orlando, FL 32830
Reservations Recommended
Generally, I don’t recommend chain restaurants for lists like these. But rules are made to be broken.
House of Blues isn’t just one of the best Disney Springs restaurants; it’s also one of the area’s best dining experiences. With nightly live music and an atmosphere of fun, this place feels more casual Honky Tonk than you might expect from the Walt Disney Company.
It will make your must-go-to lists too. Especially if you come here with some kiddos that you love. Nothing beats seeing my best friend’s toddler jamming out to live music from a booth–and adorably encouraging everyone to applaud after each song.
I know of few places where I would recommend salad as the main course, and House of Blues is somehow one of those places. Like the restaurant itself, their BBQ Chicken Salad is an exception to the rule. Dressed with Memphis BBQ sauce, corn, shredded chicken, and green veggies, this salad hits the spot after a 90-degree day in the theme parks.
9. Wine Bar George
Address: 1610 E Buena Vista Dr, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
Reservations Recommended
Wine Bar George is one of those Disney Springs rarities that, if you somehow miss it at the Springs, you can still experience it before flying home. Why? They have a location at MCO (the Orlando International Airport.)
This is the point where Disney adults may need a moment. Wine Bar George is also where you’ll find boozy Dole Whip. The Frozcato (Moscato with vodka and pineapple Dole Whip) and a Frozen Old Fashioned (Whiskey with orange Dole Whip) are both house favorites.
Tapas are also in demand here with photo-worthy charcuterie boards or varieties of seasonal salads. Not to worry, some entrees, like steak frites and chicken salad sandwiches, are on offer too.
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10. Pepe by José Andrés
Address: 1494 E Buena Vista Dr, Orlando, FL 32821
An off-shoot of renowned chef José Andrés’ D.C.-based food truck, Pepe also serves Spanish-style comfort food. Bocatas (sandwiches) populate the menu, from the classic Frankfurt (hot dog with bravioli sauce) to the more complex Pepito Ternera (flat iron steak, caramelized onions, cheese, mayo, and roasted green peppers.)
A perfect quick-service restaurant stop while meandering Disney Springs, Pepe is popular because of its simplicity. There aren’t a lot of restaurants at the Springs that offer the convenience of the carts at the theme parks, so Pepe is a stand-out.
Andrés is far from the only celebrity chef in Disney Springs. That said, his offerings are far and above that of his competitors when it comes to satisfying a very specific need: simple, affordable, and reasonably healthy.
11. Chicken Guy
Address: 1506 E Buena Vista Dr Suite A, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
Guess what’s on the menu at Chicken Guy! You get three guesses, and Genie will not appear to grant you a wish if you get it right. Because at Chicken Guy, the answer’s in the name. It’s chicken, my guy.
A quick-service restaurant in the Town Center area of Disney Springs, Chicken Guy is a Guy Fieri establishment with chicken on the brain. Chicken tenders and sandwiches (plus mac and cheese options) are on the menu here at Chicken Guy, with some Flavortown Shakes to end the meal with panache.
You’ll find this spot right by the massive Coca-Cola Store on the Western side of The Springs for a quick meal. Don’t be chicken; you know you want to see Fieri take on poultry.
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12. The Edison
Address: 1570 E Buena Vista Dr, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
Reservations Recommended
Named for the Edison lightbulb, this jazzy joint is an aesthetic all on its own. Inspired by the swing of the 1920s, there are seven distinct areas in this old-school power plant-themed space born of Gothic, Industrial, Art Deco, Art Nouveau, and Expressionist styles. The Edison is the most unique of the Disney Springs area table service restaurants.
Nightly live entertainment will keep you hummin’ as those old fashioneds keep on comin’. I’m too old to use “lit” as a slang term [Editorial Note: Considering that not even the kids are saying “lit”, I think you’re the perfect age], but can’t resist at least mentioning it for The Edison.
Even Jay Gatsby himself wouldn’t be able to resist the lit-ness of it all. Lightbulb pun.
Here you can enjoy electrically punny menu items like the High-Voltage Chicken Sandwich or the In-The-Dark Ultimate Chocolate Layer Cake. Go ahead, sip a Side Car while humming along to the jazz wafting through The Edison–your future will look bright.
13. Pizza Ponte
Address: 1560 E Buena Vista Dr, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
This casual counter service restaurant looks like it was transported from the dining area of a Walt Disney World value resort. It feels familiar with the tantalizing aroma of fresh pizza all day long.
Pizza Ponte has pizza by the slice, so the kiddos who want Pepperoni are happy, while the parents who might want something a little different will be too. Unless you’re me, an adult who will live and die by pepperoni pizza.
Then you’re happy either way. The restaurant also serves other Italian food like sandwiches and baked goods.
You’ll find Pizza Ponte over on The Landing side of Disney Springs. So it’s an excellent midway stop while you’re making your way through the area. Plus, it’s right over by The Landing boat dock! So, it’s a great to-go spot if you’re staying at a resort with public boat transportation like either Port Orleans location.
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14. Amorette’s Patisserie
Address: 1536 E Buena Vista Dr #1A, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
Some people might argue that a bakery doesn’t count as a restaurant; I, however, am not one of those people. Here is where you will find some of Disney property’s most gorgeous baked goods. Their character-inspired dome cakes can be seen on social media for a good reason. Not only are they delightful, but they’re also delectable too!
Amorette’s Patisserie is right by the Lime parking garage, making it easy to swing by on your way out of Disney Springs with sweet treats. Plus, you can order cakes in keepsake boxes ahead of time if you’re celebrating something special!
Character creations abound at Amorette’s, but if you could care less about mousey mousse, there are traditional French goods as well. Take home some freshly made macarons or crêpes. Better yet, sip some of Amorette’s signature drink: a sparkling red Banfi Rosa Regale accompanied by a chocolate Minnie Mouse topper. Magnifique!
15. The Polite Pig
Address: 1536 Buena Vista Dr, Orlando, FL 32830
Right by Amorette’s is The Polite Pig. This counter-service restaurant kicks bbq up a notch.
Said to be the only genuinely local chefs in the Disney Springs area, their nosh is well-accompanied by a bourbon bar. Not to mention there’s outdoor seating. BBQ always tastes better with outdoor seating.
If you’re a fried chicken fan, you must try their sweet & spicy bbq dressed sandwich version. It is phenomenal.
Or go BBQ tapas style with the Butcher Board. A perfect little buffet for two with a little taste of a bunch of things.
Don’t be afraid to pig out here (heh). The Polite Pig may have good manners, but it’s also a place too tasty to pass up. Bourbon and bacon? What could be better?
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16. Gideon’s Bakehouse
Address: 1600 Buena Vista Dr, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
Gideon’s Bakehouse is probably the hardest to get into of all the places on this list, and it’s undoubtedly the hardest among-the-counter service restaurants. Like the Patisserie, there is no formal dining room. Gideon’s is so famous that it’s not uncommon for the line to be hours long. When it gets long, they open a virtual queue.
So, why is this place so intensely popular? Their cookies have a cult following.
Your best bet to get your hands on a chocolate chip cookie, Gideon’s bites, or whatever your poison may be is to check the queue right when you get to Disney Springs. If you have to wait around in a virtual queue, then you’ll know right away.
17. D-Luxe Burger
Address: 1524 E Buena Vista Dr, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
With interiors reminiscent of Columbia Harbour House at Magic Kingdom, D-Luxe Burger is a great place to get some classic good food. Delicious burgers are found en masse here; why else would it be called D-Luxe Burger?
Grab a seat at this no-fuss counter service spot when you need something tasty. D-Luxe is one of those places you can count on to always be dependably delectable.
Considering their vast array of milkshake options blended with gelato, they should upgrade their name to D-Luxe Burger and Gelato. If Gideon’s runs out of your favorite cookies, maybe a gelato shake would be a suitable replacement. Who could say no to a S’mores Gelato Shake? Not I.
18. Paddlefish
Address: 1670 Buena Vista Dr, Orlando, FL 32830
Reservations Recommended
Get acquainted with your Steamboat Willie side and climb aboard Disney Springs’ faux steamboat! That’s right, and this table service restaurant is set on a boat in Lake Buena Vista. Paddlefish is a one-of-a-kind place right on the water.
Enjoy thematically appropriate seafood-centered dishes in arguably the most unique of Disney Springs restaurants. But picky eaters rejoice, and there are plenty of non-fish options on the lunch and dinner menus.
For perfectly panoramic views of Disney Springs, head up to the roof deck. From there, you can see the best views anywhere in Disney Springs, unparalleled by all except maybe the Aerophile hot air balloon. I’ll take water views to those kinds of heights any day.
19. Jaleo by José Andrés
Address: 1482 E Buena Vista Dr, Orlando, FL 32830
Reservations Recommended
Another chef, José André’s Disney Springs restaurant, Jaleo, is also an homage to his Spanish roots. Decked out with appropriate pops of red and yellow (like the garments big cheese Mickey himself), Jaleo is a feast for the eyes.
Indulge in some sangria, share tapas with your hungry companions or grab something quick. Jaleo can be a brief stop on your Disney Springs dining adventure or a proper spot to rest a while. They’re so sure of their lunchtime speed that they even have a slogan for Almuerzo Rápido (fast lunch): “Lunch in an hour, the José way!”
Per the restaurant’s website, the original Washington D.C. Jaleo location has both a Bib Gourmand and a Michelin star. Andrés is the only chef in the world with four Bib Gourmands and a two-star Michelin restaurant. Just saying.
20. Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar
Address: Pleasure Island Boat Dock, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
Back in the Downtown Disney Days, the area where the bars were was known as Pleasure Island. (As in the Pleasure Island from Pinocchio.) Now the dock serves as a reminder of Disney Springs’ past, and that’s where you can find Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar.
This 1930s/40s-style airplane hangar-turned-dive bar is one of the funkier places around Disney Springs. Does the name Jock Lindsey ring a bell? It should! It’s the name of Indiana Jones’ snake-loving pilot from Raiders of the Lost Ark! Although Indy fans are seeing less and less of the daredevil archeologist around Disney property, you can still get a feel for adventure at the Hangar Bar.
This spot might be a bar, but it’s still family-friendly too. They serve foods that fit the theme, like the Air Pirate’s Cargo Loaded Pretzel or Dr. Forrestal’s Churrasco. Plus, there are fabulous signature drinks with and without alcohol.
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