Disney World is a great destination for the young and the young at heart!

But sometimes, even the “young at heart” are looking for a more sophisticated dining experience.

Disney World is packed with amazing food (so amazing, we dedicate an ENTIRE blog to it) ranging from simple but classic snacks to full-fledged 7-course meals. And to be honest, there’s a place in our hearts for all of it (let’s face it, sometimes you just want some corn dogs nuggets, amiright?). But occasionally, you might be in the mood for something a little more atmospheric. Maybe it’s for a date night, maybe it’s for a taste of something a bit more sophisticated, or maybe you might be looking for a spot where the child-to-adult ratio tips more in your favor. Well, we’ve scoured all of Disney’s 200+ dining options to bring you our BEST picks for Disney World restaurants for adults.

Before we dig in, let’s establish some expectations. Keep in mind that though this selection focuses on adult dining, this is Disney World, and kids are welcome practically everywhere on property. So keep that in mind that these are not adult-exclusive restaurants, just restaurants that tend to cater more toward the adult experience (but kiddos like them, too!). We’ve also narrowed down our top tips to the BEST spot in each park, as well as a champion for Disney Springs and the Resorts. But because we’re the ones making up the rules, we added in a few honorable mentions that we still love but were just edged out of that top spot of glory.

Another caveat, we chose restaurants — not lounges. So, there are plenty of fun and intimate lounges that also provide a fantastic experience, but… we had to draw the line somewhere.

So, now that we’re done with the fine print of this post, let’s get into it!

Honorable Mentions

Yep, we wanna warm you up for the good stuff. So here are the picks that we love, and are still worth a try, maybe if you couldn’t snag a coveted Advance Dining Reservation at one of the other spots we mention. We’ve got two in this category, so let’s get right to it!

Toledo – Tapas, Steak & Seafood

Some basic stats right off the bat:

• Service Style: Table Service restaurant, so Advance Dining Reservations are highly recommended
• Type of Food: Spanish, Small Plates, Steak, Seafood
• Location: Coronado Springs, Gran Destino Tower
• Famous Dishes: Chuletón Bone-In Rib-Eye for Two, Chefs’ signature selection of artisanal Charcuterie and Cheeses, Spanish wines
• Price Point: $$$ ($35-$59.99 per adult)

The cuisine here is inspired by Spain, including seafood and steak options at this rooftop restaurant. Small plates and House Boards (charcuterie and cheese) are plated in an on-stage tapas kitchen. Gran Destino Tower celebrates that 80% of its vintages on the extensive wine list are from Spain.

Walk into a truly remarkable setting, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering views of Walt Disney World, unlike any other location. The views inside are equally impressive, with vaulted ceilings which are backlit to provide different colors and moods within the space. Two olive trees anchor the interior design, celebrating the history of olive oil production in Spain, which supplies about half of the world’s olive oil.

During (or after) dinner, enjoy views of fireworks shows from the restaurant’s location on the tower’s roof.

The Restaurant That Might Truly Challenge You in Disney World

Yachtsman Steakhouse

Here’s the run down:

• Service Style: Table Service restaurant, so Advance Dining Reservations are highly recommended
• Type of Food: American, Steakhouse, Fine/Signature Dining
• Location: Yacht Club Resort
• Famous Dishes:  Prime Rib-Eye Steak, French Onion Soup, and Creme Brûlée
• Price Point: $$$ ($35-$59.99 per adult)

There are several dining rooms with an upscale vibe. You’ll spot lots of wood incorporated into the design of the space, with those nautical details, and plenty of natural light (if you happen to dine here before sunset). The streamlined curves, natural woods, and soft linens all lend themselves to that classic nautical feeling.

And while the upholstery isn’t going to captivate you, the showpiece of the restaurant is the open kitchen and the butcher block where you watch as chefs expertly carve out each unique steak — because the real star here is the meat. No fireworks or characters at this restaurant, because you’ll want to focus all of your attention on the prime choice cut of steak you’re about to enjoy.

You Won’t Be Mad at Yachtsman Steakhouse in Disney World… Probably

If those two were the “runners up,” how awesome must the winners be? Well.. without further ado, let’s get to our WINNERS! The BEST restaurants for adults for each park, the resorts, and Disney Springs.

EPCOT

Le Cellier

The overview:

• Service Style: Table Service restaurant, so Advance Dining Reservations are highly recommended
• Type of Food: Canadian, Steakhouse, Fine/Signature Dining
• Location: Canada Pavilion, EPCOT
• Famous Dishes: Le Cellier Filet Mignon, Canadian Cheddar Cheese Soup, and Maple Crème Brûlée
• Price Point: $$$ ($35-$59.99 per adult)

Dark molding, lowing ceilings, and dim lighting create an intimate and romantic atmosphere that makes it a great spot for a special meal out with your significant other. It has that cozy atmosphere that just screams “date night.”

This restaurant has been around since EPCOT first opened in 1982 and boasts some seriously good steak. Time and time again, we crown this restaurant as being one of the best in Disney World, and just when we think we’ve tried it all (including a beef CANDLE), we journey back to confirm that Le Cellier is popular because it is simply just that good. And though we can’t resist the Filet Mignon, anyone could easily make a meal out of just ordering the Poutine and the sides.

REVIEW: Is Le Cellier Still An EPCOT Staple? We Found Out!

Magic Kingdom

Jungle Navigation Co., Ltd. Skipper Canteen

The overview:

• Service Style: Table Service restaurant, so Advance Dining Reservations are highly recommended
• Type of Food: African, Asian, and Latin
• Location: Adventureland, Magic Kingdom
• Famous Dishes: “Hardy Har Char” Siu Pork, “Tastes Like Chicken” Because it is!, Falls Family Falafel, Kungaloosh!
• Price Point: $$ ($15-$34.99 per adult)

Because this spot doesn’t serve your typical American fare and might incorporate an ingredient or two that you wouldn’t expect on the menu of a favorite chain restaurant, you can usually get a reservation here pretty easily. And lucky you! Because even if you aren’t an adventurous eater, Disney makes the food here very approachable if you just want to step a wee-bit out of your palate’s comfort zone.

As delicious as the food is here, the cuisine tends to get overshadowed by its detailed backstory. Look closely and find hidden details from Jungle Cruise Skippers during their adventures, and explore the secrets in the S.E.A. Room—a once-secret meeting place for the Society of Explorers and Adventurers! It’s a bright and colorful dining experience, complete with colorful interactions with your server. This is a little something for you if you want a bit more fun and excitement with your meal instead of a cozy, quiet dining setting.

REVIEW: Don’t Sleep On the NEW Menu Items at Disney World’s Jungle Cruise Restaurant!

Hollywood Studios

Hollywood Brown Derby

The overview:

• Service Style: Table Service restaurant, so Advance Dining Reservations are highly recommended
• Type of Food: American, Fine/Signature Dining
• Location: Hollywood Boulevard, Hollywood Studios
• Famous Dishes: Famous Cobb Salad, Grapefruit Cake
• Price Point: $$$ ($35-$59.99 per adult)

While it’s only a replica of the famous Hollywood landmark restaurant, we think the food and service are just as good at this signature restaurant. The interior is an ode to the Golden Age of Hollywood. Take time to wander around the restaurant and notice the special touches, including the brass derbies used as lampshades, the photographs and memorabilia on the walls, and the authentic caricatures (in the gold frames).

The entrees change seasonally, but you can always find the Famous Cobb Salad and the Grapefruit Cake on the menu. But regardless of what you order, this gem of Hollywood transport you back to Hollywood’s glitz and glamour that adults enjoy and might be lost on the younger crowd.

BIG Changes Took Over the Hollywood Brown Derby Menu in Disney World This Week

Animal Kingdom

Tiffins

The overview:

• Service Style: Table Service restaurant, so Advance Dining Reservations are highly recommended
• Type of Food: African, Asian, and Latin, Fine/Signature Dining
• Location: Discovery Island, Animal Kingdom
• Famous Dishes: Tiffins Signature Bread Service, Tamarind-Braised Short Rib, Chocolate Ganache
• Price Point: $$$ ($35-$59.99 per adult)

With the celebration of travel serving as the central theme, the menu and atmosphere reflect the locales that inspired the park itself. Beautiful artwork — much of which inspired the creation of the park. There are three “galleries” or dining rooms. The Asia-themed room is called the Trek Gallery, the Africa-themed room is the Safari Gallery, and the room covered in animal art is the Grand Gallery. Take some time to look around at the art on the walls. The art was inspired by the drawings and field notes of Imagineers as they researched and designed the Animal Kingdom park.

Similar to Skipper Canteen, but with more art and few antics, Tiffins is a feast for the eyes and the stomach. It’s a great spot to escape the heat and crowds of the park and be able to sit down and enjoy a conversation with fewer rambunctious little ones. Our pro tip is to book a reservation near the end of the night, then you can take your time enjoying your meal, and walk through a practically empty park when you leave.

REVIEW: Tiffins in Disney’s Animal Kingdom — Way Too Pricey or Worth Every Penny?

Disney Springs

The Edison

The overview:

• Service Style: Table Service restaurant, so Advance Dining Reservations are highly recommended
• Type of Food: African, Asian, and Latin, Fine/Signature Dining
• Location: The Landing, Disney Springs
• Famous Dishes: DB “Clothesline Candied Bacon,” The Edison Burger, Lollipop Tree (Cheesecake Pops), Boiler Mule Cocktail
• Price Point: $$ ($15-$34.99 per adult)

Inspired by The Edison venue in Los Angeles, this lavish “Industrial Gothic” -style restaurant, bar, and nighttime destination is themed to a 1920s-period power plant, recalling an exuberant era of invention and imagination. The Edison isn’t a typical Disney World dining option as it feels a bit more like a bar or club than a restaurant, so that’s probably why you’ll find more adults in here than families.

While the food here is good, what really makes it stand out is all of the uniquely crafted cocktails. You can find everything here, from trendy “Instagrammable” cocktails to classic, vintage sips. Or chat with the mixologist to have something custom crafted for you.

$30 Cocktails and Drinks Served in BLOOD BAGS — Come With Us to The Edison in Disney Springs

Disney Resort

California Grill

The overview:

• Service Style: Table Service restaurant, so Advance Dining Reservations are highly recommended
• Type of Food: American, Seafood, Sushi, Fine/Signature Dining
• Location: Contemporary Resort
• Famous Dishes: Sonoma Goat Cheese Ravioli, Sushi and Sashimi
• Price Point: $$$$ (over $60 per adult)

The California Grill at Disney’s Contemporary Resort is truly a masterpiece of fine dining and has been recognized by the Michelin Guide for its innovative chefs, market-inspired menus, and incredible quality.

California Grill is currently presenting a new, special dining experience for a limited time in honor of the 50th Anniversary of Walt Disney World Resort! The 3-course prix fixe menu was created to “evoke the spirit of 1971″ — the opening year of Walt Disney World (and also the opening year of the Top of the World!). Disney has shared that the meal celebrates the past while offering a nod to the incredible future ahead, featuring dishes such as Braised Short Rib Wontons, Florida Coast Black Grouper, and a 50th Anniversary Celebration Dessert Grand Marnier Soufflé.

REVIEW: Heading to California Grill During Disney World’s 50th Anniversary? It’s Gonna COST You!

So there you have it, our top picks and honorable mentions for the best adult dining in Disney World. Some places you might have to plan to spend a bit more money on, and some are right in the middle of that Disney dining price point. Some you can visit in your casual theme park attire, or you dress up, and either way, you won’t feel out of place.

If you’re wanting a super bonus elite dining experience, you can check out Monsieur Paul (in EPCOT), Victoria & Albert’s (in the Grand Floridian), or, when it reopens, Takumi Tei (in EPCOT).

For more tips on dining, shopping, and, well, all things Disney, stay plugged in to DFB. Check out some of these other posts to keep informed on all things Disney food!

What’s your favorite Disney World restaurant for adults? Did yours make the list? Comment below!

The post Best Disney World Restaurants for Adults in 2022 and 2023 first appeared on the disney food blog.