Spring is in the air and with along with it comes the lovely Orlando temperatures that will have you delighted to be outdoors. Now is the perfect time for Disney visitors to enjoy a little Al Fresco dining before that hit the sweltering Summer heat. With that in mind, here’s a list of some of our favorite restaurants to enjoy a bite in the great (Disney) outdoors!
8. Rose and Crown Pub – (pictured) This lovely British pub located at Epcot’s UK pavilion boasts lovely outdoor dining with a view. Guests can grab a pint and indulge in classic British cuisine like bangers and mash, cottage pies and Scottish salmon. Also, for those lucky enough to nab a late night reservation you may even be able to watch IllumiNations while you dine. Guests should be warned however that this is THE popular spot from which to dine and watch the fireworks. Be prepared for the patio to be very in demand and be mindful that an outside table isn’t guaranteed. Dining here will set visitors back $15 – $34 per person or is one Table Service Credit for those on the Dining Plan. Advanced dining reservations are recommended.
7. Trattoria al forno- One of the best places in my opinion to do a bit of outdoor dining is along Disney’s vibrant Boardwalk. Its a great place to people watch, enjoy the water view and with both Epcot and Hollywood Studios just a short water taxi away, its the perfect place to take a tranquil break from the hustle and bustle of the theme parks. There is a spacious outdoor seating area where you can tuck into fantastic old world Italian favorites for dinner. The restaurant is also host to the Bon Voyage character breakfast. However, guests should note that those hoping to meet characters like Rapunzel and Flynn Rider during breakfast-time will need to dine inside as the terrace will be reserved solely for those opting out of the character dining experience. Dining here will set visitors back $15-$34 per person and also costs one Table Service dining credit. Trattoria does accept advanced dining reservations.
6. Trader Sam’s Tiki Terrace Restaurant – Trader Sam’s at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort is a whole lot of awesome. Not only do they have some of the most amazing cocktails with absolutely delightful souvenir take home containers but the Tiki Terrace Restaurant is also one of the best places to sit back and unwind after a long day at the parks. Chill out to the sounds of the islands with the live bands playing and sample delicious dishes including: sushi rolls, fried dumplings, or my favorite the Kalua Pork Tacos. The Tiki Terrace is just a short boat or monorail ride from the Magic Kingdom. The restaurant does not participate in the Disney Dining Plan and dishes are usually in the $10 – $15 range. Seating is walk up only.
5. Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe – There’s nothing particularly special about this Tomorrowland eatery other than the longstanding rumor that it boasts more traffic than any other restaurant in the world. However, it is a reliable Magic Kingdom quick service restaurant serving up standard counter service options like chicken nuggets, hotdogs and Angus burgers. There’s also a sizable toppings bar allowing visitors to customize their entrees however you like them. But what has me visiting this eatery every time I’m at Disney is the fantastic outdoor seating area that’s perfect for people watching. Outside tables aren’t usually that hard to come by and the umbrellas do provide some much needed shade from the afternoon sun. Meals here will set visitors back around $14.00 or one Quick Service Credit on the Disney Dining Plan.
4. STK – A relative newcomer to the Disney Springs dining scene, STK is gaining accolades not only for its modern steakhouse dishes but also for its patio dining. This Landing location offers those out on the town a chance to enjoy a craft cocktail or sample some sharable bites all while enjoying the beautiful Disney Springs views. Since STK is a one of Disney’s Fine/Signature Dining locations guests can expect to pay a heftier price tag of $35 and above per person or using 2 Table Service Dining Credits for those on the Dining Plan. Advanced dining reservations are accepted.
3. Casey’s Corner – No visit to the Magic Kingdom would be complete without grabbing a hotdog at Casey’s Corner, kicking back in their outdoor seating area and enjoying the view of Cinderella’s Castle. There’s also other ballgame favorites on the menu like chicken nuggets, cotton candy and even Cracker Jacks and having a Baby Care Center and restrooms nearby makes it the perfect location for a family pit stop. Casey’s has also recently starting offering a special dog of the month (pictured) which is perfect for those hotdog-lovers that may be feeling a bit experimental! Casey’s does participate in the Disney Dining Plan offering both Quick Service meals and items that can be used as Snack Credits.
2. Spice Road Table. I’m often asked what I think the most underrated Disney World eatery is and Spice Road Table for me comes up tops. This restaurant is easily one of my favorite places to be at the World Showcase. With the breathtaking surroundings and the spectacular lighting in the evenings you truly feel like you’ve been magically transported to another land. This exotic lakefront dining option offers a spectacular menu filled with tapas-style Mediterranean small plates including hummus, stuffed grape leaves, and spicy garlic shrimp that are perfect for sharing. The restaurant also has more traditional entrees like beef and chicken skewers and lamb sliders. Top it off with a selection from the Wine Menu and there’s all the trimmings for a perfect dining experience. However what makes this restaurant truly magical is the outdoor terraced seating area with amazing views of the Lagoon making it perfect for that panoramic view of the World Showcase or the ideal IllumiNations viewing location. Advanced reservations are strongly encouraged. The costs to dine here are usually $15 – $35 per person. or 1 Table Service Credit
1. Flame Tree BBQ – A trip to Animal Kingdom just wouldn’t (and shouldn’t) be complete without a visit to Flame Tree BBQ. Not only does this Quick Service eatery offer an amazing menu filled with smokehouse favorites like BBQ ribs, pulled pork sandwiches, baked beans and jalapeno cornbread, Flame Tree also has a seating area with the most magical views of the Animal Kingdom as you look across the Discovery River toward Expedition Everest. It may not get you out of the Summer heat but its a great place to take a deep breath, relax and recharge before heading back out into the throng. Costs to dine here are usually under $15 or 1 Quick Service dining credit.
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