We all know Walt Disney World is one of the best resorts on the planet for incredible food and drink. Outside of a handful of world class cities, you’d be hard pressed to find a place where so many amazing dining options are so close by.
But we all know about the amazing options like Jiko, California Grill, Le Cellier, and Narcoossee’s. We even know about the under-the-radar spots like Olivia’s, Kona Cafe, and the brand new Tiffins. Is there any stone left unturned in the Walt Disney World food scene?
The answer is yes, there is.
There are a handful of hotels on Walt Disney World property that are not owned by Disney. Some of these hotels, such as the Disney Springs resort area locations, are rather basic. Others have dining options and lounges that rival any of the Mouse’s.
Let’s take a look at a handful of these options that are as off-the-beaten-path as you can get. They’re all fantastic and unique, and you’ve almost certainly never tried all of them:
1. Capa
Capa is an incredible spectacle.
Image: Four Seasons
To a Disney fan, the word “luxury” conjures images of a table beside the Seven Seas Lagoon, watching the Electrical Water Pageant float by while you enjoy some delicious halibut. To non-Disney travelers, luxury usually means something like dinner high atop the 17th floor of a Four Seasons resort.
Well, Disney actually has one of those too.
The Four Seasons opened at Walt Disney World in 2014 and, if you can believe it, offers even more high-class accommodations than Disney’s Deluxe resorts. But in addition to these fancy rooms and suites, the Four Seasons operates a slate of restaurants and lounges, and each of them is worth exploring.
Capa offers dinner and drinks in its space on the 17th floor of the resort, including a fantastic outdoor lounge. The menu is a modern steakhouse construct, but with a very heavy Spanish influence. Heavy beef cuts such as a bone-in ribeye and a New York strip serve as the backbone, but there’s plenty of seafood, chicken and veggies as lighter fare.
But what makes Capa special is its breathtaking view.
The Four Seasons is tucked just behind Fort Wilderness, meaning guests have a view of the Wishes fireworks show at Magic Kingdom. While it’s not quite the front row seat you’d enjoy at California Grill, it’s a much easier place to get a table. Plus, with a full bar featuring plenty of Spanish wine, an after-dinner drink with some fireworks is about as good as it gets.
2. PB&G
PB&G is as relaxed as it gets.
Image: Four Seasons
If you’re looking for something a bit more casual, the Four Seasons still has you covered.
PB&G is a pool bar, but the fanciest pool bar you’ll ever come across. It features a gorgeous covered seating area with a charming bar and picnic table-inspired seating by the pool. The scenery is as relaxing as Florida gets, with water and nature all around.
But unlike many other pool bars, the food here is really quite delicious.
Featuring southern-inspired flavors, the menu has both casual light-lunch options and more elevated, refined entrees. There really is something for everyone: From a classic burger, to a deconstructed gyro, to fish tacos and Andouille sausage.
If you’re looking for a break from the Magic Kingdom, and truly want to be far away from the action, hop in an Uber and stop by PB&G. You can slow things down (and enjoy some table-top s’mores for your trouble) at one of the best outdoor dining locations in Orlando.
3. Kimonos
Kimonos has atmosphere and incredible sushi.
Image: Swan and Dolphin
The Swan and Dolphin aren’t exactly hidden from plain sight, but they are still somewhat less frequented than most Disney resorts. Some of their restaurants, such as celebrity chef Todd English’s bluezoo or the famous New York-based Il Mulino, are highly regarded. Others, like Kimonos, are a bit more hidden.
Less a restaurant and more a classic sushi lounge, Kimonos is not the most child friendly spot at Walt Disney World. The sushi is very highly regarded, but there’s not much else on the menu for the less adventurous eaters. That said, for those who do like sushi, this is one of the best places to get it at Walt Disney World.
Beyond that, Kimonos is famous for its raucous nighttime vibe. The Swan and Dolphin often host conventions, which means this space can be bouncing with business people looking for some late-night entertainment. But even when it’s just vacationers, the nighttime karaoke is quite the draw.
Whether you’re looking for incredible sushi for a meal or somewhere to sing and laugh the night away when you’re done at the parks, Kimonos has something to offer you – and it’s just a short walk from Epcot away.
4. Sir Harry’s Lounge
When it’s open, Sir Harry’s Lounge is must-see.
Image: Walforf Astoria
The Four Seasons isn’t the only luxury hotel chain with a location on Walt Disney World property. In 2009, the Waldorf Astoria opened at Bonnet Creek – a tract of land on the southeast corner of Walt Disney World near Epcot. The original Waldorf Astoria, located in New York City, is one of the most famous luxury hotels in the world, hosting lavish galas and celebrities for over half a century. Its central bar, Sir Harry’s Bar, was a favorite of many famous New Yorkers and entertainers including Frank Sinatra.
Of course, the Orlando version of Sir Harry’s Lounge doesn’t boast quite the same pedigree as its Manhattan cousin, but it still serves as one of the most dignified spots on Disney property to enjoy an alcoholic beverage.
With dark wood paneling and a handsome décor, Sir Harry’s Lounge is both luxurious and comfortable. It’s not quite as staid and formal as you’d imagine it to be, but the romance of mid-century New York is palpable.
Of course, it’s quite a hidden gem, and as such, it’s not always open. Make sure to call ahead before you plan to stop in – there’s nothing worse than a closed bar.
5. Bull and Bear
Bull and Bear is the best Disney restaurant you’ve never thought of.
Image: Walforf Astoria
However, if Sir Harry’s Lounge is closed during your trip, don’t fret: The Waldorf Astoria also features one of the best restaurants on Walt Disney World property. Seriously. This one is every bit as good as the signature dining experiences at Disney’s resorts.
Similarly inspired by the original in New York, Bull and Bear is a stunning, award-winning steakhouse that wouldn’t feel out of place in a big city, let alone a vacation resort.
The menu does feature chicken and seafood, but beef is the star of the show, with several two-person cuts serving as the signature offerings.
Come at the right time and you might catch a glimpse of Illuminations while you eat (although keep your hopes in check – it’s not quite like California Grill’s fireworks view), or better yet, save the show for dessert: Bull and Bear boasts the famous Waldorf Beignets.
The experience is elegant yet unpretentious, and classy without feeling as touristy as some of Disney’s other nice restaurants. That, in and of itself, makes it feel like the proverbial vacation from your vacation – which is something you might need after a long day walking around Epcot.
And that, ultimately, is what makes each of these spots so enticing to try. The Disney bubble is great, but sometimes, bursting it for an incredible meal can be reinvigorating – and it can give you the energy you need to wake up the next day and tackle Magic Kingdom one more time.
