We’re friends, right? 

We love being your friend. And as friends we have to follow certain rules. For example, friends don’t let friends eat at the WORST places in Disney World (or they tell them the best things to get there). And friends tell friends about Disney discounts (you can count on us for that!). Well, friends also tell friends about the BEST places to eat in Disney World! And what kind of friend would we be if we didn’t give you a handy dandy list for you to use when planning out all of those delicious Disney World meals in 2022?! We’re right here friends, and we’ve got you covered with the ultimate list of restaurants in Disney World that you WON’T want to miss in 2022!

From the longtime classics to brand new foodie faves, some Disney World’s restaurants are truly bringing their A-game, and we’re HERE for it!

Disney World is KNOWN for its creativity and originality — a sentiment that definitely applies to its current dining landscape! 

Within its existing restaurants and within its new ones, Disney is changing and improving things with new menu items, new techniques, dazzling decor, immersive theming, and much more! 

As you get to planning those 2022 Disney World vacations, consider this your ultimate bucket list of restaurants. Now, it’s not exhaustive — there are plenty of amazing Disney World spots that aren’t on this list, but we couldn’t have you sitting here reading this list all day could we? So we’ve narrowed it down to some of our TOP picks that really embody what Disney dining is all about right now! 

Magic Kingdom

Columbia Harbour House

A Magic Kingdom restaurant we waited for what felt like a decade to reopen was Columbia Harbour House, and boy does absence make the heart grow fonder! We’ve long loved this nautical New England-inspired restaurant, and dare we say that now we love it more?!

It’s so cozy and quaint, giving us serious Colonial New England vibes. Not only does it remain one of our favorite places to take a break from the Orlando heat, but the Cast Member outfits are ON POINT, the rooms are precious, and the food is just as good as we remember! 

Specifically, we’re thrilled to confirm that some old favorites, including the lobster roll, the hushpuppies, and other favorites are still here. We also saw the Minnie Lava Cookie and the Plant-Based Lighthouse Sandwich return initially, though those are currently not on the menu. Be sure to check back though because menus can change!

Click here for our full review of Columbia Harbour House!

Jungle Navigation Co. LTD Skipper Canteen

Between the Jungle Cruise campiness and the endless dad jokes, Jungle Navigation Co., Ltd. Skipper Canteen is a BIG hit with us and we think you might really enjoy it too!

A timeless treasure in Adventureland, the atmosphere here is immersive and fun, the Cast Members are at their kitschy best. Plus the food is adventurous and delicious!

Whether you go for the flavorful Falls Family Falafel, the “Hardy Har Char” Siu Pork, or try another one of the unique dishes here, it’ll be a culinary adventure! In all of Magic Kingdom, you’ll find some of the more unique eats here. And don’t forget to ask about those secret menu items!

Click here for our FULL review of Skipper Cateen!

EPCOT

Takumi-Tei

Oh, Takumi-Tei, how we miss you! EPCOT’s signature Japanese restaurant remained closed for most of 2020 and 2021, and is still temporarily unavailable. It hosted a special dinner event in November of 2021 but has yet to fully reopen. Still, we’re optimistic that it’ll re-open soon!

Takumi-Tei opened in 2019. We LOVE this restaurant for its zen atmosphere, peaceful dining rooms, elaborate cocktails, and Omakase Tasting Menu. Truly, eating here can be a whole experience if you really make it one.

We hope that 2022 will be the year of Takumi’s triumphant return! Be sure to check for all the latest updates ahead of your trip to see if it has reopened by the time you’ll be there.

Click here for our review of Takumi-Tei

Regal Eagle Smokehouse: Craft Drafts & Barbecue

We also have to give a shoutout to Regal Eagle Smokehouse — the comfort food haven in the American Adventure Pavilion. Why? Some of the food is really good and this fun addition had the misfortune of opening in February, 2020, and we all know what happened a couple weeks after that… .

So now feels like a better time for a re-visit! First of all, the Muppets theming is ADORABLE — Sam the Eagle leads the BBQ competition theming of this restaurant, and frankly it’s about time this superstar got some more love!

From the BBQ Burger (which is on GARLIC TOAST!!!) to the Kansas City Smoked Half Chicken, many of the dishes here are really tasty! Plus you can’t skip out on that Mac and Cheese and Banana Pudding!

Whether sitting on the sprawling patio or indoors, this is one that might be worth a visit (or a re-visit) for you! 

Click here to see our review of Regal Eagle!

Le Cellier

Amidst all the new stuff in EPCOT, there are some classic spots that still hold their own — one of which is Le Cellier in the Canada pavilion.

Take a walk past the gorgeous gardens and you’ll find yourself at the entrance to this awesome spot, with a cozy dining room made to resemble a wine cellar in a chateau.

The food at this Canadian steakhouse is solid. It’s a place we’ve come back to time and time again. From the fantastic steaks to the hard-to-resist poutine, we’re here for every bite!

Truly, this is probably your best bet for a quality steak in EPCOT. If you want to sit down, relax, and really enjoy a tasty steak and more during your park day in EPCOT, this could be the perfect spot.

Click here to see our review of Le Cellier!

Animal Kingdom

Satu’li Canteen

For a more casual, counter service option in an irresistibly fun setting, make a beeline to Pandora: The World of Avatar and feast your eyes (and, ya know, your mouth) on Satu’li Canteen!

We LOVE the customizable bowls here, which feel like a fairly healthy (but still flavorful and filling) alternative to most other Disney eats in the parks (assuming that boba is a health food ), and we LOVE LOVE the Cheeseburger Pods!  

Also, the seasonal and holiday specials are usually AMAZING, and the outdoor seating area is one of our favorite go-to spots to relax in the shade and snack our way into a nourishing food coma. 

Click here to see one of our reviews of Satu’li Canteen!

Disney Springs

Homecomin’ by Chef Art Smith

Disney World is certainly not lacking in comfort food, but it takes a truly SPECIAL restaurant to fully immerse you in comfort from every angle. That special place is Homecomin’ by Chef Art Smith in Disney Springs!

This restaurant is incredibly cozy with its chic, cottage-like vibe, especially with the covered porch, which overlooks the lagoon, or in the casual moonshine bar area.

And the food really hammers the theme home with things like Hummingbird Cake (SO GOOD), Cheddar Cheese Drop Biscuits, Church Lady Deviled Eggs, and some of the best Fried Chicken in Disney World (especially when paired with Doughnuts)! 

Also, the restaurant’s namesake chef, Chef Art Smith, is a joyous, larger-than-life figure with the lovable energy of Mickey Mouse and the culinary chops of Remy the Rat. If you haven’t been to this spot, trust us when we say it should be added to your must-try list immediately.

Click here to see our review of Homecomin’

Morimoto Asia

Another restaurant solidifying Disney Springs as a foodie epicenter is Morimoto Asia, owned by world-famous Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto!

This spot has some high quality sushi and tasty ramen, and the restaurant itself is just GORGEOUS! From some seriously delicious Buri Bop to some ridiculously good Beef Lo Main, there are a lot of great items to pick from here.

And we can’t forget about the Peking Duck! There’s truly a whole lot to enjoy.

Check out our review of Morimoto Asia here!

Chicken Guy!

Sometimes you just want a darn good chicken sandwich or some really tasty chicken tenders, ya know? When the hankering hits, you’d be hard-pressed to beat Chicken Guy! in Disney Springs.

This casual and colorful restaurant from celeb chef Guy Fieri is a HIT with the comfort food cravings, and we appreciate how easy the restaurant is to get into (compared to some other more, umm, challenging reservations).

The menu isn’t all that complex, but the dishes are SOLID and those sauces can add a whole other layer (or several layers) to the adventure!

If you’re really hungry and not willing to leave your home, you might be able to get Chicken Guy! delivered right to your home! Or you can drive through the drive-thru at another Chicken Guy! Orlando location. This spot might not be fancy, but don’t underestimate it!

Click here to see our FULL review of Chicken Guy!

Disney World Resorts

Steakhouse 71

Throughout Disney World’s resorts, we’ve been dazzled by new restaurants and new menus, and one that truly blew us away was Steakhouse 71, the NEWEST restaurant in Disney’s Contemporary Resort!

Suffice to say the title of one of our reviews was “Steakhouse 71 Dinner is Already One of Our Favorites in Disney World,” and that was immediately after they opened. So yeah, it’s amazing. But we can’t forget that this spot also serves breakfast and lunch (and has a lounge and some secret eats!).

From a deliciously greasy burger to a french onion soup that was PACKED with flavor, we’ve had some seriously awesome dishes here.

The sleek dining room, the superlative steaks, the chic lounge area, the mile-high cake, the FLIGHT OF SAUCES! It’s all stellar! Do yourself a solid and make a reservation here ASAP. 

Click here to see our Steakhouse 71 lunch review!

California Grill

When it comes to stunning views, we’re pleased to report that California Grill, located atop Disney’s Contemporary Resort, has still got it. 

The views are certainly still some of the best in Disney World, with vistas of the Seven Seas Lagoon, Magic Kingdom and fireworks, but the food here is SO good that it might just distract you from the panorama! 

Full disclosure, it’s not cheap. And the NEW prix fixe 50th Anniversary menu means you can’t exactly order the cheaper dishes to try to make the experience a little less costly. So that’s something to keep in mind. But the food itself can be spectacular. We especially loved the Braised Beef Short Rib Wontons, House-made Artisanal-style Duck À L’Orange Pizza, and other items!

If you’re looking to treat yourself just because or as a way to celebrate a special occasion, this could be a great pick!

See our full review of the prix fixe menu here!

Sanaa

If your idea of the ultimate Disney World dinner consists of unique foods you may have never tried before (that are absolutely delicious) and a backdrop of exotic animals strolling on a literal savanna, then you NEED to make eating at Sanaa your new year’s resolution!

This beautiful African- and Indian-inspired restaurant at Animal Kingdom Lodge is paradise for the adventurous eater, with its shareable Indian-style Bread Service (a must-get), African-inspired Biryani, and much more!

Oh, and the fact that exotic animals are casually strolling by the windows is just icing on the cake.

Click here to see some more about Sanaa!

‘Ohana

For the noodles, the bread pudding, and the cozy tropical vibe, ‘Ohana was EASILY one of the Disney World restaurants we were MOST eager to see reopen in Disney World! And when it FINALLY did reopen inside Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, we were not disappointed!

With food served in an all-you-can-eat fashion, you can LOAD up on those beloved ‘Ohana noodles, along with other hits like the Honey-Coriander Chicken Wings, Pork Dumplings, Island Shrimp Casserole, and more! Oh and let’s not forget about that ooey-gooey ‘Ohana Bread Pudding!

From the Cast Members making the rounds with Ukuleles to the window-side views and the all-you-can-eat feast of Polynesian flavors, we’re thrilled to report that ‘Ohana is as must-eat as EVER!

Click here to see our review of ‘Ohana!

Victoria & Albert’s

While this Grand Floridian gem remains closed, it’s impossible to deny that Victoria & Albert’s remains the most epic fine dining experience in Disney World.

The intimate Chef’s Table experience, where you literally dine INSIDE the kitchen, basically becoming best friends with the chef, is second to none.

Plus, with the recent news that Michelin is officially launching its first-ever Michelin Guide to Florida, covering restaurants in Miami, Tampa, and Orlando, that means Disney World heavy-hitters like Victoria & Albert’s could be in a whole new spotlight in 2022!

A meal at Victoria & Albert’s isn’t cheap, but it’s one of those once-in-a-lifetime experiences you’ve got to do!

Click here to see our review of Victoria & Albert’s!

Grand Floridian Cafe

If you’d rather not spend a boatload on your meal at the Grand Floridian, there’s a more casual option that’s no less delightful: Grand Floridian Cafe.

Seriously, the vibe here is so pretty and quaint, and the food is as unique as it is DELISH. We’re talking lobster-topped burgers, strawberry soup, and Chicken and Waffles SO GOOD that you’ll want to leave Magic Kingdom just to get them.

Seriously. This place is a solid go-to morning, noon, and night.

Click here for our full review of brunch at Grand Floridian Cafe!

Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto

Likely the most missed bar in Disney World during the extended closures was Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto in Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. How do we know? The day it FINALLY reopened, there was a massive line down the hall, just to get to the doorway to join a VIRTUAL line!

It’s easy to see the appeal of this place. It’s fun, it’s dark and transportive, it’s interactive, and the drinks are not only tasty, but many come in SUPER cool and collectible mugs!

Yeah, we’re members of the Trader Sam’s fan club. If you’re looking for a unique place to grab some bites to eat and sip on some drinks while being surrounded by a super fun atmosphere, this is IT.

See our full review here about whether Trader Sam’s still lives up to the hype!

Geyser Point Bar & Grill

Long before La Crêperie de Paris was doing double duty with Table Service and Quick Service, Geyser Point Bar & Grill was paving the way in Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, and we gotta bow down!

This place is great for its something-for-everyone vibe, flavors, and dining style — all in a rustic-chic environment with an open-air ambience, prime waterfront views, and decor reminiscent of the Pacific Northwest. Beautiful!

Plus, it’s super underrated in general, especially considering it has one of our favorite burgers in Disney World, and excellent late-night eats. Plus the barbecue brisket dip is TOTALLY worth leaving the parks for (along with the burger, and the charcuterie, okay yeah we like this place!).

Click here to see why Geyser Point’s to-go window is one of the best kept foodie secrets!

Territory Lounge

Ready for ANOTHER sleeper hit at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge?! Allow us to introduce you to Territory Lounge.

Similar-ish to Geyser Point, this cozy and charming indoor bar specializes in food and drinks inspired by the Pacific Northwest, but the atmosphere is much more intimate and transportive, with its dark wood features and soft lighting.

Some of the cocktails and food here are off the charts! Seriously some of the best eats and sips in a Disney World lounge! There’s Oregon Chardonnay Fondue (and yes it is as good as it sounds), and some other items here we think you might really enjoy (though we haven’t loved everything we’ve been served here).

Click here to see more about Territory Lounge!

Scat Cat’s Club — Cafe

Now it’s time for an underrated GEM of a restaurant, and one of our FAVORITE snacks in Disney World! We’ll always have a space in our heart for Mickey Waffles, Mickey Pretzels, and any other Mickey-shaped novelty, but one of the BEST Mickey-shaped snacks of all? The Mickey Beignets at Scat Cat’s Club — Cafe!

Disney’s Port Orleans — French Quarter Resort finally made its return this past October, and with it came the relaunch of Scat Cat’s Club Cafe! And you KNOW what that means: a powdered sugar reunion!

You can get a standard Mickey-shaped Beignet with a dipping sauce, or if you’re REALLY looking to live your best life in 2022, you can upgrade to a Mickey-shaped Beignet Sundae (!) or try the Baton Rouge Beignets, which are boozy Beignets(!!) “jazzed up” with Baileys Irish Cream, Kahlúa, or RumChata!

You might even find some seasonal specialties here, so don’t forget to check back often. An excuse to get more beignets you say? Count us in!

Click here to see more about these delicious beauties!

While there are lots of Disney World restaurants, bars, and cafes with tasty dishes, if you’re putting together the ULTIMATE bucket list, these are some of the places that you might want to add to your list for 2022! Stay tuned for more Disney World tips and tricks to make your next vacation the best one yet.

Click here to see your must-get Disney World dishes for 2022!

Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe!

Don’t Miss Out on Any Disney Fun!

Order Your Copy of the 2022 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining Today!

With more than 750 pages, the 2022 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining is full of tips and planning tools developed by Disney World experts over 30+ years of visits. We’ve done the research for you, so you’ll know just which spots will uniquely suit your family’s needs!

With mini-reviews of every single restaurant, bar, lounge, kiosk and more; an entire chapter on the best snacks in Disney World; full Disney Dining Plan analysis (and how to get FREE dining); and a full chapter on discounts and deals; you’ll have everything you need to plan your best vacation yet.

Click here to order your copy of the 2022 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining E-book with code WDW2022 to save 25% off the cover price today!

Use code WDW2022 at check-out for 25% off the cover price today!

Our guides are backed by a 100% money-back guarantee, so you have nothing to lose.

Which Disney World restaurants do you think belong on the 2022 bucket list?! Let us know in the comments!

The post The 19 Best Restaurants in Disney World in 2022 first appeared on the disney food blog.