We all know Walt Disney World strives to be the best in their field when it comes to entertainment and leisure. Through their theming, rides, use of innovative technology, jaw dropping live shows and fireworks displays, to top notch cast members full of answers to your burning questions. So it comes as no surprise that they also strive to be the top of the game when it comes to dining experiences. When planning trip to Disney, some guests without kiddos may be wondering about the best restaurants in Disney World for adults.
Which Are the Best Restaurants in Disney World for Adults?
You can have corndog nuggets on Main Street USA, a Mickey Ice Cream bar in mid-July (or any time really…), a refreshing Pineapple Dole Whip, and hey, if you choose to hold your wedding at Disney then you can opt for Mickey Waffles to be served in lieu of a traditional wedding cake! Go to a Luau on the beach, see a good ole’ fashioned western dinner show at the Hoop De Doo Revue, or dine with Princesses in a castle.
You can pretty much have any dining experience you want at Disney World. But what do you do when you want to get away from the chaos of loud family entertainment during your meal service? Perhaps you are looking for a romantic dinner or to celebrate a special event?
With so many restaurants at Disney World to choose from, it may be difficult to know exactly which ones are best suited to adults specifically. Luckily, there are many fine dining restaurants located on Disney World property.
Here is a list of a few of our favorite restaurants at Disney World for adults.
1. Monsieur Paul
When you want a quieter dining experience, but also want to enjoy the spectacular fireworks display and evening in EPCOT, head on over to France and Monsieur Paul. Located on the upstairs level of Les Chefs de France, the restaurant first opened along with the park in 1982 by Chef Bocuse and is America’s first Bocuse-affiliated restaurant.
Among many of the culinary honors Chef Bocuse has achieved, he was named Chef of the Century in 2011 by the Culinary Institute of America. At Monsieur Paul, adults visiting Disney World will enjoy a French dining experience they will never forget.
2. The Hollywood Brown Derby
If you are looking for a unique old-time Hollywood glam experience, you can find it within Disney’s Hollywood Studios at the Hollywood Brown Derby. This restaurant transports you to the Golden Age of Hollywood with their replica of the famous California Brown Derby, that used to serve some of the biggest names in Tinseltown.
You will even find the walls decorated with caricatures of those famous faces who used to frequent the restaurant, a tradition that began in 1929! Here adults visiting Disney World can enjoy classic cocktails and menu items that use the recipes of Bob Cobb, the original owner of the California Brown Derby. It’s a golden Hollywood experience that won’t be forgotten.
3. Victoria and Albert’s
Looking for quiet elegance? Then Victoria and Albert’s, located at the Grand Floridian Resort, is where you want to go. Boasting rave reviews from Zagat as well as top honors from AAA and Forbes Travel Guide, many say this is one of the best restaurants you will find in the Southeast.
The menu at Victoria and Albert’s changes based on the season to ensure that you have the freshest ingredients at any time of the year. And if you’re a repeat guest, there is almost always something new on the menu to tempt your taste buds.
At Victoria and Albert’s guests don’t just have a meal…it’s an experience. Hearkening back to the times when dining was quite an affair, which each course is served ceremoniously and savored.
4. Yachtsman Steakhouse
Is premium steak and fresh seafood on your mind? You can find all of that and more at this New England style steakhouse. Located at Disney’s Yacht Club resort, the Yachtsman Steakhouse is the signature dining restaurant and features an open kitchen and exposed pine beams throughout the dining room to give it a nautical, airy feel.
Adults visiting Disney can savor a New York Strip Steak or Lobster Pasta. But whatever you do, don’t skip the signature dessert options!
5. Jiko
Feeling more adventurous than the standard American style cuisine? Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge has just what you’re looking for with their fine dining restaurant, Jiko. Jiko features a mouthwatering blend of African, Indian, and Mediterranean cuisine that adults at Disney can enjoy in a glowing atmosphere that mimics the colors of an African sunset, thanks to the twin wood-burning ovens that provide a subtle glow.
Satisfy your taste buds with brick-oven fired flatbreads or market-fresh fish. Enjoy the unique flavors and bold spices that Jiko has to offer in a warm and evocative atmosphere. Personally speaking, Jiko is one of our absolute favorite restaurants at Disney World for adults!
Book in Advance if You Want to Experience These Top Disney World Restaurants!
Tables at Disney’s best restaurants are limited. So if you want to dine at any of these best Disney World restaurants for adults (or other signature restaurants at Disney), then be sure to make reservations well ahead of time. These restaurants tend to fill up quickly.
You can reserve your spot up to 180 days in advance. Once you’ve secured your reservation, be sure to take note of the dress code so that you don’t have to make a last minute run to the shops for appropriate attire – unless you’re looking for an excuse to shop, then by all means, conveniently “forget” to pack the clothes that adhere to the dress code. I’m sure you will be able to find something in the resort shops or at the upscale shopping Disney Springs has on offer that will fulfill your wardrobe needs. Happy Dining!
Author: Jessica is an Art Stylist for TV, Film, and Theatre based New York City. She travels wherever and whenever she can and uses inspiration from around the world in her designs. You can learn more about her at JayMarieCreative.com