“Side by side with your loved one, you’ll find enchantment here. The night will weave its magic spell, when the one you love is near…”  These lines from Bella Notte in Lady and the Tramp present just one out of a million examples of romance in Disney films.

But did you know that Disney World can most certainly be romantic as well? It’s true! In the World of thrill rides and chill rides, DOLE Whips and Jumbo Turkey Legs, and downright hilarious entertainment, there are places and moments where and when its entirely possible to have a truly romantic experience. And we think that can be especially true when it comes to DINING in Disney World. So if you’re looking for a place to treat your sweetheart to an unforgettable date, we’d like to share the BEST restaurants in Disney World for romance!

First, a note: we’ll be discussing these restaurants by category, and you may notice that some restaurants can actually fit into more than one category. (For instance, we include Narcoossee’s under “Fireworks Views;” however, it also fits under the category of Signature Restaurants.) So, for the purposes of this post, we’re categorizing the restaurants under their defining feature with regards to what gives them that romantic vibe…

And with that, here we go!

Romantic Splurges

Victoria & Albert’s

We’re starting with a dining experience that is on many a Disney fan’s Bucket List: a meal at Victoria & Albert’s in Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort!

This AAA Five Diamond award-winning restaurant is the “culinary crown jewel” of Disney World, and offers three different experiences from which to choose: the Victoria & Albert’s Dining Room (where guests may choose from 2 tasting menus), Queen Victoria’s Room (which is limited to four couples per evening), and the exclusive Chef’s Table (which is a 3-hour experience tailored for up to 6 guests).

Disney shares that “Guests are expected to dress accordingly in semi-formal/formal attire that respects the restaurant’s elegant and opulent aesthetic.”

When we say this is a splurge, we mean it, with the options above ranging from $295.00 to $425.00 PLUS optional wine pairings.

However, when we say it is a truly unique, remarkable, and memorable experience, we mean that, too. You can read more about our most recent experience at Victoria & Albert’s (which followed the restaurant’s recent refresh) here.

Takumi-Tei

Takumi-Tei — which means “house of the artisan” — is inspired by Japan’s natural beauty. Guests are seated in one of five rooms inspired by a natural element —  water, wood, earth, stone or washi paper — in this EPCOT restaurant tucked inside the Japan pavilion.

Takumi-Tei currently features a prix-fixe menu consisting of two omakase multi-course meal options: an omnivorous meal for $250 per person (including the diner’s choice of Japanese A5 wagyu steak, Roasted duck, or Grilled Chilean seabass), and a plant-based meal for $150 per person.

From the second you step in the door, you’re greeted with a level of hospitality and attention to aesthetics that is practically unseen at most other establishments in Disney World. The meals take a long time since each course is treated as an experience, and is a fit for more special occasions.

Some of the dishes our reporters have enjoyed here are ones they’ve described as the BEST they’ve ever had in their lives. It is absolutely a splurge, but the quality is incredible.

Takumi-Tei is one restaurant located within a park which requests that guests arrive “in attire that adheres to the restaurant’s sophisticated and upscale aesthetic.”

Click here for our Full Review of EPCOT’s Most EXPENSIVE Restaurant

There is another in-park restaurant that requests the same, and it just so happens to not be very far away from Takumi-Tei at all…

Monsieur Paul

Perhaps you’ve strolled past Monsieur Paul in EPCOT’s France pavilion without even realizing it, as its location is tucked above Les Chefs de France.

Each meal starts with a glass of champagne (for of-age guests) and then progresses through five courses with The Gastronomic Meal of The French which, as Disney shares, is “one in which people devote themselves to the art of ‘eating and drinking well.’ ”

The meal takes time and the food — as well as the experience – is meant to be savored.

Monsieur Paul is currently serving a prix fixe menu which starts at $195 per guest, and you can read about the full experience here.

Come With Us To Try One of the FANCIEST Meals in Disney World — Monsieur Paul

Celebrating Your “Happily Ever After”

Cinderella’s Royal Table

First things first when it comes to Cinderella’s Royal Table: it’s a Disney Character Meal featuring Disney Princesses. I hear you… “Romance” and “Character Dining” may not automatically spring to mind simultaneously.

BUT! In the case of Cinderella’s Royal Table…

It’s a Character Meal that takes place INSIDE Magic Kingdom’s CINDERELLA CASTLE.

This stunning and sparkling setting has served as the backdrop for many a marriage proposal and romantic date over the years. After all, what says “Happily Ever After…”

… more than THIS?

Click HERE for our most recent review of Cinderella’s Royal Table!

Fireworks Views

Well, actually, there IS something else that certainly says “Happily Ever After…” and that’s the Happily Ever After fireworks spectacular, which is shown nightly at Magic Kingdom!

Magic Kingdom Fireworks Views

Several restaurants in the Magic Kingdom Resort area boast fireworks views if you time your Advance Dining Reservation in tandem with the evening’s production. (We keep track of Magic Kingdom showtimes here.)

At the top of the list when it comes to romance both for the actual meal and fireworks viewing is California Grill at Disney’s Contemporary Resort.

California Grill has its own dedicated viewing area to watch Happily Ever After!

And, regardless of reservation time, guests who’ve dined at California Grill are welcome to come back later that evening with their meal receipt in time for fireworks viewing!

In April 2023, the Grand Floridian’s Narcoossee’s reopened from a lengthy refurbishment, and guests can enjoy a menu featuring both old favorites (such as Narcoossee’s Bisque and the classic Surf and Turf), and additions such as the Ocean-Inspired Charcuterie Board.

Aside from the menu, the restaurant itself has received a refreshment as well, and it continues to make the most of the waterfront views through the panoramic windows.

Depending on the timing, you might even get to see the Electric Water Pageant as well as the Magic Kingdom fireworks!

THESE are the Two BEST Things On the Menu at Narcoossee’s in Disney World

Similar to Character Dining, ‘Ohana may not spring to mind as “romantic,” since the ‘Ohana-style family vibe and all-you-care-to-eat options veer towards fun over ALL THE FEELS.

But music for Happily Ever After is piped in and lights are dimmed so diners can view the fireworks over Cinderella Castle through ‘Ohana’s large windows lining one entire side of the restaurant.

And the vibe in that moment is altogether lovely, in my opinion.

EPCOT Fireworks Views

Of course, Magic Kingdom isn’t the only park to offer a nighttime fireworks spectacular. And while it’s true that EPCOT Forever (which is EPCOT’s interim production as the park prepares for an all-new fireworks show to debut later this year) doesn’t exactly present the same romance as Happily Ever After, any sort of fireworks viewing is a lovely way to end a day, perhaps with a drink in hand to raise a toast to your significant other in honor of your new memories from the day.

One of the restaurants boasting fireworks views is La Hacienda de San Angel in EPCOT’s Mexico pavilion.

The indoor space offers floor-to-ceiling windows and is tucked right on the edge of World Showcase Lagoon for a fantastic fireworks viewing experience in the evening! We suggest requesting a window seat; however, due to their popularity, they may be hard to secure.

Regardless, the views are great and you can enjoy some truly tasty and authentic Mexican fare (and a margarita or two, perhaps) while you dine!

Spice Road Table provides a beautiful setting any time of day, whether you are seated indoors…

… or out!

Tapas-style dining allows you and your special someone to share several plates to try lots of dishes and experience lots of flavors.

The spot makes the most of its fireworks viewing by offering a Fireworks Dining Package for the evenings. (The Rose & Crown Dining Room offers a Fireworks Dining Package as well.)

Get the scoop on EPCOT’s Fireworks Dining Packages HERE

P.S. When it opens later this summer,  Shiki-Sai: Sushi Izakaya will offer fireworks views as well!

Signature Dining

Signature Restaurants in Disney World offer fine dining options for guests all around Disney World. Guests will often find that the menus change regularly in order to place an emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients and beautifully plated dishes in more elegant — though by no means stuffy — settings.

The Signature restaurants in Resort hotels, in particular, tend to offer even more appeal for adults looking for a great date night, as these restaurants — unlike Signature dining locations in the parks — request that guests adhere to a dress code.

Signature Restaurants in Resort Hotels

One of our favorites happens to be a more recent addition.

Topolino’s Terrace — Flavors of the Riviera can be found at Disney’s Riviera Resort, and it boasts lovely rooftop views and a menu inspired by French- and Italian cuisine featuring fresh seafood and meat dishes, which can be paired with wine “sourced from the Mediterranean coast.”

Another rooftop spot can be found at the Gran Destino Tower at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort. Before you feast your eyes on the food at Toledo — Tapas, Steak and Seafood, you first feast your eyes on the truly gorgeous setting…

Large windows make the most of the views.

However, the inside of the restaurant presents amazing views of its own, including a vaulted ceiling featuring mosaics pieces that are backlit so the colors change throughout the evening to enhance the mood!

The flavors of Spain are presented in small plates, charcutería and cheeses along with seafood and steak entrees.

And the wine list boasts over 50 Spanish wines chosen by a Master Sommelier.

We Found Your Next Date Night Spot in Disney World — Welcome to Toledo!

Jiko — The Cooking Place, on the other hand, has remained one of our tried-and-true favorites over the years. We can highly recommend Jiko if you enjoy excellent, gourmet food and a lovely and tranquil atmosphere.

Sharing tastes of Africa with a special Jiko flourish, the dishes here are delicious and beautiful.

And the Animal Kingdom Lodge savanna is right outside.

Along with its Grand Floridian neighbor, Narcoossee’s, Citricos also received a recent makeover with a refreshed look inspired by Mary Poppins Returns, and a new menu created by Chef Andres Mendoza.

It’s also well worth noting that in 2022, Citricos was recognized by the Michelin Guide.

Overall, Citricos is a fresh, upscale restaurant with incredible service and food to match. Additionally, a new and exclusive option (designed for 4-8 guests, but may accommodate a minimum of four, and a maximum of 10) offers guest a “more elevated food and wine experience”: the Sommelier Room at Citricos.

Signature Restaurants in Disney Springs

Isn’t this gorgeous? You’re looking at Morimoto Asia in Disney Springs.

This is Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto’s first Pan-Asian restaurant focusing on Chinese, Japanese, and Korean cuisines. The two-story venue features show kitchens where chefs exhibit traditions like Peking Duck Carving.

Morimotoa Asia opened in 2015, and it continues to impress to this day.  Morimoto Asia was also recently recognized by the Michelin Guide.

Lovely Lounges

Perhaps you’re simply looking for a nightcap or a few smaller bites to enjoy in a beautiful setting. There are several locations that fit the bill quite nicely, including Dahlia Lounge in Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort.

This rooftop lounge is located next to the Tower’s Toledo — Tapas, Steak, & Seafood restaurant and likewise offers beautiful views across Walt Disney World.

Tapas and specialty cocktails crafted by mixologists are available, and Spanish cavas receive the spotlight on the wine list.

The stunning Barcelona Lounge can also be found at Coronado Springs Resort.

This truly gorgeous lounge features a small breakfast menu (including yogurt with fruit and granola) in the morning, specialty coffee all day, and an artisanal cocktail bar (with a focus on Gin and Tonic) from late-morning through evening.

As you can tell from the photo above (a Margarita complete with Mickey Ears!), the upscale vibes don’t take away from the sense of fun here!

Three Bridges Bar & Grill at — surprise! — Coronado Springs Resort presents unique ON-the-water dining!

Though it’s a casual setting, Three Bridges serves upscale, Spanish-inspired bar food like queso, braised pork tacos, and other shared plates and burgers.

The robust beverage menu features specialty cocktails and sangria which can be ordered by the pitcher… or with a Flight!

Before you think Coronado Springs has the market cornered on lovely lounges, let’s stop by the Enchanted Rose in Disney’s Grand Floridian.

Inspired by the “tale as old as time,” this lounge features touches from the live-action version of Beauty and the Beast.

Guests can indulge in gourmet bites like Smoked Trout and Crab Dip and Truffle Fries. Crafted drinks include Featured Martinis like the French Rose and classic Grand Cocktails.

Starting in 2024, Enchanted Lounge will also be a new space that accepts the Disney Dining Plan.

By the way, several of the Signature restaurants mentioned in other categories above — including California Grill, Citricos, Topolino’s Terrace, and many more — offer bar and lounge components in addition to their full service restaurants.

Cozy Corners

It’s funny… Wine Bar George in Disney Springs is a sprawling space with its two floors, several indoor rooms, and outdoor terrace seating.

And yet…

…with its charming interior design, it somehow manages to still feel cozy and intimate. Wine Bar George also has the distinction of being the only Master Sommlier-owned wine bar in Florida.

And the food?

It’s sure not bad, either.

The ONE Disney World Restaurant That’s Practically Perfect. According To Just About Everyone: Wine Bar George

Tutto Gusto in EPCOT’s Italy pavilion provides a calm and cozy respite any time of day.

Tutto Gusto is a 96-seat wine bar. The spot is currently serving full entrees from its neighboring restaurant, Tutto Italia. 

And you can, of course, partake in a glass or two of wine, or perhaps a Wine Flight.

What makes EPCOT’s San Angel Inn a contender on this list of Cozy Corners?

It’s the location… tucked inside the Mexico pavilion’s pyramid, it’s always a perfect evening… no matter what time of day you dine!

Candlelit tables add to the ambience, and guests enjoying their authentic Mexican fare are also treated to the view of watching passengers sail by on the Gran Fiesta Tour Starring The Three Caballeros, the pavilion’s attraction.

We hope you’ve enjoyed this tour of swoon-worthy spots in Disney World and are able to take a little romantic inspiration along with you on your next trip to Disney World!

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The post The Best Restaurants in Disney World for Romance first appeared on the disney food blog.