My Top 6 Table Service Restaurants at Disney World

Is there anything better in the world than eating at a Walt Disney World restaurant? Maybe the actual Disney vacation but I’m not sure what else!  Where can you expect the best table service at Disney World?

But with so many options to choose from, I thought I’d narrow down some of my favorites and top suggestions to get you started on your reservation list before you head on down to the most magical (food) place on earth.

Seriously, are you hungry for some info about where to eat at Walt Disney World?

Topolino’s Terrace – Flavors of the Riviera [Resort]

Topolino’s Terrace – Flavors of the Riviera is a wonderful restaurant at Disney’s Riviera Resort that offers a unique dining experience. And it’s our favorite table service restaurant at Disney World

One of the reasons I love it is because of its spectacular views of the Walt Disney World Resort. The restaurant is located on the rooftop of the resort, which provides an unparalleled view of the surrounding areas. The atmosphere of the restaurant is also quite enchanting, with its elegant décor and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine.

The menu at Topolino’s Terrace – Flavors of the Riviera is diverse and offers a range of flavorful options that are sure to please any palate. The dishes are expertly prepared using fresh, high-quality ingredients that are sourced locally. Some of the must-try dishes include delicious pastries and bread, savory breakfast items, and mouth-watering seafood options.

During our visit we tried the Scallops, Rigatoni, and Steak and loved all of it. In addition, the wine selection is great.

After dinner, you can take your remaining drinks outside to the beautiful terrace and relax.

Chef Art Smith’s [Disney Springs]

Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ restaurant at Disney Springs is hands down one of my favorite restaurants at Disney World.

The menu is a delicious blend of Southern comfort food and contemporary takes on classic dishes. I particularly loved the fried chicken and biscuits, which were some of the best I’ve ever had. The mac and cheese was also a standout, with a perfect blend of cheesy goodness and crispy breadcrumbs on top.

One of the things that sets Homecomin’ apart is the attention to detail in the decor. The restaurant is charming and makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a cozy farmhouse kitchen. The bar area is particularly cozy, with warm lighting and a fireplace that adds to the ambiance.

Space 220 [Epcot]

For our Babymoon, we had dinner at Space 220, and it quickly became one of my favorite restaurants at Disney World. From the moment we entered the elevator that took us up to the restaurant, I was impressed by the immersive experience that awaited us.

The elevator ride simulated a journey through space, complete with views of Earth and the stars beyond.

Once we arrived at the restaurant, the theming continued to impress. The interior of the restaurant looks like a space station, with large windows offering views of Earth and space beyond. The attention to detail was impressive, from the uniforms of the staff to the menu items, which were all named after space-related terms.

The food was great and the drinks were even better.

Be Our Guest Restuarant [Magic Kingdom]

The pure fact that it’s almost impossible to get a reservation at this pick should be one of the biggest indicators of how amazing Be Our Guest is.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic night out or you’re going with the whole crew, I put this high on the list not just because the food is delightful but because it’s hard to find a better environment than our favorite Beast’s “humble” abode.

Spend an evening with Beast in his ballroom (my personal favorite), the West Wing (opt for this if you are a fan of a spooktacular time), or Belle’s room (this has a sweet statue of the two of them).

For lunch, we suggest the Croque Monsieur and for dinner, we suggest the Strip Steak. Don’t forget to grab a picture after your dinner with Beast! He’s happy to accommodate all of his guests.

California Grill [Resort]

Our favorite Disney table service restaurants are the ones that offer an exceptional experience along with excellent food. California Grill made it onto this list for just that!

Sitting at the top of The Contemporary Hotel is this beautiful and modern dining experience that offers amazing options for food and one of the best views in all of Disney property.

During the Magic Kingdom firework show, you are able to go out on the balcony and watch the fireworks in the middle of your meal! Want to try this place out but don’t want to break the bank? I suggest making a later reservation and just opt for dessert. OR you can try their sushi. It’s absolutely delicious and not crazy expensive.

It’s somewhat ironic, yet fitting, that California Grill is included among the best restaurants at Walt Disney World: ironic, in the sense that it’s a restaurant in Florida that celebrates California cuisine, fitting in that Walt Disney World takes its inspiration from California’s Disneyland.

Consider starting your meal with mouth-watering flatbreads, which are a house specialty. Baked in a brick oven, they feature toppings such as mozzarella di bufala and pork pate. Sushi is also available as an appetizer. Entrees range from Georges Bank scallops with potato gnocchi and smoked pork to oak-fired filet of beef. The wine list features California varieties.

Located atop Disney’s Contemporary Resort, the California Grill offers spectacular views. Plan your meal so that you can enjoy after-dinner drinks on the restaurant’s outside balcony and watch the Magic Kingdom’s nightly fireworks display. The synchronized soundtrack is piped into the balcony’s speakers.

• Cost: High ($45 to $75)
• Attire: Resort casual
• Food: California fusion
  

Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater [Hollywood Studios]

Cruise on up to this sweet option in Hollywood Studios and you won’t regret it. Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater has to be one of the most creative options you can choose from on all of Disney property.

We love the classic American style food, “dark sky”, and cheesy horror flicks playing on the massive screen in front of us.

Honestly, if you’re not fully convinced you’re in a 1950s drive-in theater by the time your meal is over, I don’t think any Disney magic will ever win you over. Don’t forget to try a milkshake before you leave too!

What is Table Service?

Having table service at Disney World is a treat.  By “table service,” I mean restaurants at which guests are seated at a table and served by a waitperson.

You may be surprised to learn about the extraordinary dining experiences available at Disney World. It’s certainly possible to find burgers, pizza, popcorn, and more pedestrian fare throughout the parks. But, there is a diverse array of restaurants catering to virtually every price point and palate—including some highly sophisticated options.

With the expert help of Lyn Dowling—a long-time reporter on Walt Disney World and a current restaurant reviewer for Florida Today, and my own extensive experience, I have my top/best table service at Disney World.

If you are seeking a lighter meal and/or a lower bill, Disney World has some great quick-service restaurants. If you want to meet Mickey Mouse or other friends during your meal, Disney World has many character dining opportunities.

Since you’re on vacation, and diets typically get tossed aside, you’ll want to save room for the resort’s delicious snacks and desserts.

The Popularity of Table Service Restaurants at Disney World

Table service restaurants are a popular dining option at Disney World for several reasons. Firstly, they offer a more upscale and intimate dining experience compared to quick-service restaurants.

Table service restaurants also provide guests with a much-needed break from the hustle and bustle of the parks, allowing them to sit down, relax, and enjoy a meal in a comfortable environment.

Furthermore, many table service restaurants at Disney World feature unique theming and immersive environments that transport guests to different worlds and eras.

Table service restaurants at Disney World typically offer a wider selection of menu items and alcoholic beverages, making them a popular choice for guests looking to indulge in a more sophisticated dining experience.

From character dining experiences to signature restaurants, there is a table service restaurant at Disney World to suit every taste and budget.

Other Suggestions for Best Table Service at Disney World

Yak and Yeti at Animal Kingdom

Gorgeous surroundings with pan-Asian cuisine… Ahhh, the foodie in me wants to get in the car and head straight to the Animal Kingdom before I even finish this sentence.

But in the name of getting my reader’s information, I will continue. If you plan on spending any time at Animal Kingdom, take a break from the heat and your exploring and head on over to this fan favorite. Take some time and explore the details and history of this special eatery. You may find the back-story is worth the meal itself.

Another special tip: If you don’t have a reservation, go ahead and hang out in the lounge/bar area. They offer a full menu, and you can try some exotic drinks as well!

Rose and Crown Pub at Epcot

Fish and chips and a gorgeous and perfect view of Illuminations? Yes, please. Every time I’ll say yes to this amazing table service restaurant. If you get a chance to stay a little longer in the United Kingdom Pavilion, I suggest staying long enough that you can grab a bite to eat at The Rose and Crown…and ask for a seat on the patio if weather permits.

Yachtsman Steakhouse at  Disney’s Yacht Club Resort

When you have a hankering for a perfectly cooked steak or chop, this is the place to go at Disney World. The meat is aged and cut on-site, the dishes are consistently tasty, and the service is first-class.

Choices include a 32-oz porterhouse for two, a Kansa City strip steak, and a Black Angus filet mignon. Steakhouse-style starters include a Waldorf wedge salad, jumbo shrimp cocktail, and fried calamari.

Entrees besides steak include a live lobster served steamed or Thermidor style (which makes sense given that the Yachtsman is located at Disney’s New England-themed Yacht Club Resort).

It’s a bit under the radar and underrated. But according to Dowling, Yachtsman Steakhouse is one of the places that Florida locals in the know seek out to mark birthdays, anniversaries, and other special events.

• Cost: High ($35 to $60 per adult)
• Food: Steakhouse and American cuisine
  

Jiko – The Cooking Place: Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

Probably the most exotic (and among the most expensive) fare to be found on the Walt Disney World resort is at Jiko – The Cooking Place. It takes its inspiration from Africa. Drawing from the enormous continent, the menu reflects lots of variety.

Depending on the season, choices might include seared maize pudding with chakalaka (a spicy South African relish), Swahili curry shrimp with coconut rice, or seared ostrich fillet with spiced chickpeas. This is about as far removed from a theme park cheeseburger as you could get. And it’s all delicious.

Be sure to peruse Jiko’s overwhelming selection of South African wines. Also, consider the specialty teas menu, which features African blends. They provide a great after-dinner interlude before exploring the animals grazing on the Animal Kingdom Lodge’s savannah.

• Cost: High ($35 to $60 per adult)
• Attire: Resort casual
• Food: African cuisine
  

When you’re on such a fun yet tiring vacation like Disney, it’s nice to have a sit-down dinner here and there.  Table service restaurants at Disney are some of the most expensive places to eat so it’s important that when you pick, you’re being selective and doing your research. 

Disney World is diverse and cultural in its dining selection and has some of the world’s best chefs on property.  Of the top picks listed, which place sticks out to you the most?