Disneyland Dining Recommendations
I know trying to decide what and where to eat at Disney with all the options can be so overwhelming, so I like to share all the character dining options, and some of my favorite spots in each park and resort area to recommend to my clients to help narrow the choices down. I will also be providing you with tips and recommendations for quick-service and snack options throughout the parks, but here we are just focusing on any table-service reservations you may be interested in.
I do want to be up front and explain that post-pandemic, securing dining reservations even at the 60 day booking window has proved extremely difficult for all, especially character dining or newer and higher demand restaurants. I say this just to give you a heads up that even with the best game plan and understanding of how the system works, we may not be able to get what we are hoping for right at the opening of your booking window. However, I would not want you to worry if this is the case! The important thing is to at least try as soon as your window opens, and I will do my absolute best with all the tips and tricks I know for the best chances of getting them. Whatever I am not able to secure, I have subscriptions for cancellation monitoring, and would continue to monitor for a reservation opening all the way up until you are on your trip!
With all that being said, below is a list of some favorite locations. I don’t normally recommend more than one table-service meal a day in general, so I don’t want you to feel like you have to choose a large number. Usually, something like a lunch in the middle of the day to take a break and refuel is welcomed, or doing a fun character breakfast on a rest day as to not take away from time sensitive park attraction strategies.
I do want to be up front and explain that post-pandemic, securing dining reservations even at the 60 day booking window has proved extremely difficult for all, especially character dining or newer and higher demand restaurants. I say this just to give you a heads up that even with the best game plan and understanding of how the system works, we may not be able to get what we are hoping for right at the opening of your booking window. However, I would not want you to worry if this is the case! The important thing is to at least try as soon as your window opens, and I will do my absolute best with all the tips and tricks I know for the best chances of getting them. Whatever I am not able to secure, I have subscriptions for cancellation monitoring, and would continue to monitor for a reservation opening all the way up until you are on your trip!
With all that being said, below is a list of some favorite locations. I don’t normally recommend more than one table-service meal a day in general, so I don’t want you to feel like you have to choose a large number. Usually, something like a lunch in the middle of the day to take a break and refuel is welcomed, or doing a fun character breakfast on a rest day as to not take away from time sensitive park attraction strategies.
Disneyland Park Recommendations
Plaza Inn - Dating back to 1955, the Plaza Inn was one of Walt Disney's favorites, and his wife, Lillian Disney, helped to decorate the restaurant's Victorian interior. The Plaza Inn is known for its specialty fried chicken and a character breakfast featuring Minnie Mouse and friends. View Menu
Carnation Cafe - Dine on classic American comfort food, including some of Walt’s favorite dishes. View Menu
Blue Bayou - Embark on a culinary adventure with Louisiana-inspired cuisine as you watch Pirates of the Caribbean boats glide past. This fan-favorite restaurant is tucked into New Orleans Square and serves specialty jambalaya and their popular Monte Cristo Sandwich. Soft, twinkling lights hang over the tables creating a dreamy atmosphere. View Menu *Offers 3-course meal dining package for VIP reserved section seating voucher for nighttime show Fantasmic! This pricing is $89 per adult (ages 10+) and $35 per child (ages 3 - 9) + tax & gratuity - pricing subject to change
Cafe Orleans - Ever since it opened in 1966, this inviting sidewalk café has been serving up Cajun charm—along with a nostalgic menu of classic favorites. Its the perfect spot to dine when the weather’s fine. Sit outside on the patio and enjoy picturesque views of the Rivers of America. Walt Disney himself used to stop by this spot often for a cup of coffee! View Menu
Oga's Cantina - For those who have long dreamed of visiting one of the galaxy’s infamous watering holes, Oga’s Cantina brings that dream to life. Bounty hunters, smugglers, rogue traders and weary travelers of all ages come together to refuel, enjoy music and conduct meetings—no questions asked. With an expansive menu of exotic concoctions for young ones and adults, the cantina is a welcome rest stop before your crew’s upcoming galactic journey. View Menu
Tomorrowland Skyline Terrace "Dinner in the Stars": Delight in a dining experience that’s out of this world, featuring flavorful cuisine and stunning views! Choose to stay for the entire evening or come and go as you please from 6:30 - 10:00 PM. Each person in your party must purchase a dinner package to enter. The $60 per guest (including tax but not gratuity) experience includes:
Adult Options:
Carnation Cafe - Dine on classic American comfort food, including some of Walt’s favorite dishes. View Menu
Blue Bayou - Embark on a culinary adventure with Louisiana-inspired cuisine as you watch Pirates of the Caribbean boats glide past. This fan-favorite restaurant is tucked into New Orleans Square and serves specialty jambalaya and their popular Monte Cristo Sandwich. Soft, twinkling lights hang over the tables creating a dreamy atmosphere. View Menu *Offers 3-course meal dining package for VIP reserved section seating voucher for nighttime show Fantasmic! This pricing is $89 per adult (ages 10+) and $35 per child (ages 3 - 9) + tax & gratuity - pricing subject to change
Cafe Orleans - Ever since it opened in 1966, this inviting sidewalk café has been serving up Cajun charm—along with a nostalgic menu of classic favorites. Its the perfect spot to dine when the weather’s fine. Sit outside on the patio and enjoy picturesque views of the Rivers of America. Walt Disney himself used to stop by this spot often for a cup of coffee! View Menu
Oga's Cantina - For those who have long dreamed of visiting one of the galaxy’s infamous watering holes, Oga’s Cantina brings that dream to life. Bounty hunters, smugglers, rogue traders and weary travelers of all ages come together to refuel, enjoy music and conduct meetings—no questions asked. With an expansive menu of exotic concoctions for young ones and adults, the cantina is a welcome rest stop before your crew’s upcoming galactic journey. View Menu
Tomorrowland Skyline Terrace "Dinner in the Stars": Delight in a dining experience that’s out of this world, featuring flavorful cuisine and stunning views! Choose to stay for the entire evening or come and go as you please from 6:30 - 10:00 PM. Each person in your party must purchase a dinner package to enter. The $60 per guest (including tax but not gratuity) experience includes:
- Choice of entrée with a side
- Choice of dessert
- Choice of a specialty-themed nonalcoholic beverage with a glow cube
- Unlimited soft drinks, bottled water or hot chocolate
- A commemorative beverage novelty
- Themed credential with a lanyard
- Themed drink coaster
Adult Options:
- Fried Pork Cutlet Sandwich: Fried pork cutlet, broccoli rabe, sweet soy mayo and ginger chimichurri on a ciabatta bun, served with seasoned yuca fries or pasta salad
- Spiced Chicken with Turmeric Rice: Spiced chicken quarter, broccoli rabe with red pepper turmeric rice, ginger chimichurri, drizzled with pomegranate molasses and garnished cilantro
- Mushroom al Pastor Sandwich: Mushrooms al pastor, black bean puree, avocado-tomatillo sauce, pickled cucumbers, red onion and jicama with cilantro, served on a ciabatta bun with seasoned yuca fries
- Chicken Tenders: Served with potato bites, a Cuties® mandarin orange, house sauce and blue ranch
- Kid’s Pasta Bake: Diced grilled chicken, a blend of broccolini, roasted bell peppers, spinach and chef’s choice of pasta tossed in marinara sauce and topped with cheese
- Raspberry Mousse Tart: Chocolate tart shell filled with red velvet cake, dark chocolate mousse and ganache and a raspberry mousse dome glazed with red and black mirror glaze
- Chocolate-Caramel Whoopie Pie: Chocolate whoopie pie filled with caramel mousse, rolled in white, dark and silver crunchy pearls with chocolate belt deco
- Limeade Punch: Sprite® and Lemon-Lime Powerade® served with a scoop of lime sorbet
- Cranberry-Ginger Lemonade: Cranberry juice, pink lemonade, ginger ale, and ginger syrup served with a black sanding sugar rim
Disney California Adventure Park Recommendations
Carthay Circle - Inside the reproduction of Los Angeles' Carthay Circle Theater — where "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs" premiered in 1937 — guests will find elevated in-park dining. Seasonal fare from the same chef behind Napa Rose and a menu that highlights fresh salads, seafood, and a signature pork chop. View Menu
Lamplight Lounge - With walls covered in Pixar animation art and a view out over the water to the attractions of Pixar Pier, Lamplight Lounge is a great choice for brunch, lunch, and dinner. The lobster nachos are a crowd favorite, as are the cocktails and local beers. View Menu
Wine Country Trattoria - A hand-carved limestone fountain welcomes you to this rustic retreat where elegantly prepared Italian specialties await. Fresco-covered walls, tile floors and wood-beam accents reminiscent of a Tuscan villa create a tranquil setting for relaxing afternoons and romantic evenings alike. Dine alfresco on our umbrella-dotted terrace amidst beds of fragrant flowers and herbs or inside the welcoming trattoria. The Mendocino Terrace provides yet another charming possibility as the perfect place for relaxing with a glass of wine. View Menu
World of Color Dessert Party - After a day at the park, save room for dessert—and prime views of this nighttime spectacular. Feast on tasty colorful sweets and sip delectable drinks, while sitting at our dedicated viewing area to watch the dazzling show. The $89 per person (including tax + gratuity) package includes:
Lamplight Lounge - With walls covered in Pixar animation art and a view out over the water to the attractions of Pixar Pier, Lamplight Lounge is a great choice for brunch, lunch, and dinner. The lobster nachos are a crowd favorite, as are the cocktails and local beers. View Menu
Wine Country Trattoria - A hand-carved limestone fountain welcomes you to this rustic retreat where elegantly prepared Italian specialties await. Fresco-covered walls, tile floors and wood-beam accents reminiscent of a Tuscan villa create a tranquil setting for relaxing afternoons and romantic evenings alike. Dine alfresco on our umbrella-dotted terrace amidst beds of fragrant flowers and herbs or inside the welcoming trattoria. The Mendocino Terrace provides yet another charming possibility as the perfect place for relaxing with a glass of wine. View Menu
World of Color Dessert Party - After a day at the park, save room for dessert—and prime views of this nighttime spectacular. Feast on tasty colorful sweets and sip delectable drinks, while sitting at our dedicated viewing area to watch the dazzling show. The $89 per person (including tax + gratuity) package includes:
- A delicious selection of desserts and cheeses
- An alcoholic beverage for adults, ages 21 and older, ID required; for Guests from outside the United States, original passports are the only acceptable form of identification
- Unlimited soft drinks and bottled water—plus coffee, tea and hot chocolate
- Reserved seating in the World of Color preferred viewing area at Paradise Gardens Park, where you can sit at a table with folding chairs or a high-top table with director chairs
Grand Californian Hotel & Spa Recommedations
Napa Rose - Celebrate a special occasion or simply toast to the good life, surrounded by warm-hued craftsman décor, inspired by the natural beauty of the Golden State—a perfect backdrop for a relaxed yet refined evening at this premier dining destination. Known for its award-winning wine list and exemplary service. As this restaurant is the culinary crown jewel of the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort, we recommend allowing enough time (2 hours) to fully enjoy this elegant yet laid-back dining experience. Guests are requested to dress in a manner consistent with the restaurant’s wine country ambience. Examples of appropriate dinner attire include dress pants, jeans in good condition, collared shirts, dress shorts, sweaters, blouses, dresses and lifestyle shoes. No hats, swimwear, tank tops, cutoffs or distressed jeans are kindly requested. View Menu
Disney Princess Breakfast Adventures (at Napa Rose) - Treat your child to an unforgettable 3-course breakfast and enchanting encounters with some favorite Disney Princesses. Upon arrival, Disney Princesses are waiting to greet you and share in your hopes and dreams prior to taking a photo on a beautiful private patio. You may take part in story time with Belle or learn some fierce warrior poses with Mulan. Young adventurers are presented with a special keepsake to take back to your home kingdom to remember your magical morning! The magnificent menu features fine breakfast entrees as well as savory luncheon items—including some special desserts. $125 per person + tax & gratuity
Storytellers Cafe - Start your day with Mickey Mouse and some of his closest pals. The cozy Craftsman-style dining room is a warm, friendly backdrop to your buffet breakfast or brunch adventure. If you're interested in a non-character lunch or dinner instead, you can feast on fantastic fare that celebrates the art of storytelling! The innovative cuisine at the expansive all-you-care-to-enjoy dinner buffet is sure to entertain the most discerning taste buds with Pulitzer-worthy flavors. View Menu
Disney Princess Breakfast Adventures (at Napa Rose) - Treat your child to an unforgettable 3-course breakfast and enchanting encounters with some favorite Disney Princesses. Upon arrival, Disney Princesses are waiting to greet you and share in your hopes and dreams prior to taking a photo on a beautiful private patio. You may take part in story time with Belle or learn some fierce warrior poses with Mulan. Young adventurers are presented with a special keepsake to take back to your home kingdom to remember your magical morning! The magnificent menu features fine breakfast entrees as well as savory luncheon items—including some special desserts. $125 per person + tax & gratuity
Storytellers Cafe - Start your day with Mickey Mouse and some of his closest pals. The cozy Craftsman-style dining room is a warm, friendly backdrop to your buffet breakfast or brunch adventure. If you're interested in a non-character lunch or dinner instead, you can feast on fantastic fare that celebrates the art of storytelling! The innovative cuisine at the expansive all-you-care-to-enjoy dinner buffet is sure to entertain the most discerning taste buds with Pulitzer-worthy flavors. View Menu
Disneyland Resort Recommendations
Goofy's Kitchen - At this breakfast or dinner buffet, choose from an array of eye-opening favorites and be surprised by who drops by… it’ll be a blast! Many favorite Disney friends have been known to pay a visit, so be ready to join in the fun and wave at your favorite Characters as they pass by your table. Have those cameras ready for some amusing Character selfies! View Menu
Trader Sam's Enchanted Tiki Bar - Mystery, romance and adventure await you at this bewitching tiki bar inspired by the world-famous Jungle Cruise attraction. View Menu
Trader Sam's Enchanted Tiki Bar - Mystery, romance and adventure await you at this bewitching tiki bar inspired by the world-famous Jungle Cruise attraction. View Menu
Downtown Disney Recommendations
These options are often great for arrival day or rest day dinners!
Tortilla Jo's - Begin your fiesta with a house favorite: fresh guacamole made just the way you like it or the famous loaded nachos piled high with Monterey jack cheese, Pico de Gallo, guacamole and sour cream to get the party started. Savor authentic south-of-the-border specialties in a vibrant setting in the heart of the Downtown Disney District. View Menu
Jazz Kitchen Coastal Grill & Patio - Feast on Creole and Cajun specialties infused with contemporary inspiration, while dining in a vibrant ambiance that seamlessly blends sandy white with hues reminiscent of sunsets on the Gulf and Pacific Coasts. Overlooking the revelry of the Downtown Disney District, you can also enjoy outdoor patio dining that sprawls the upper and lower levels and welcomes gentle breezes. View Menu
Splitsville Luxury Lanes - Expansive seating options both outside and inside make Splitsville the perfect dining destination for the whole family. An array of flat-screen televisions throughout the restaurant ensures that sports fans will never miss a big play or the score of your favorite team. View Menu
Tortilla Jo's - Begin your fiesta with a house favorite: fresh guacamole made just the way you like it or the famous loaded nachos piled high with Monterey jack cheese, Pico de Gallo, guacamole and sour cream to get the party started. Savor authentic south-of-the-border specialties in a vibrant setting in the heart of the Downtown Disney District. View Menu
Jazz Kitchen Coastal Grill & Patio - Feast on Creole and Cajun specialties infused with contemporary inspiration, while dining in a vibrant ambiance that seamlessly blends sandy white with hues reminiscent of sunsets on the Gulf and Pacific Coasts. Overlooking the revelry of the Downtown Disney District, you can also enjoy outdoor patio dining that sprawls the upper and lower levels and welcomes gentle breezes. View Menu
Splitsville Luxury Lanes - Expansive seating options both outside and inside make Splitsville the perfect dining destination for the whole family. An array of flat-screen televisions throughout the restaurant ensures that sports fans will never miss a big play or the score of your favorite team. View Menu