The 5 restaurants I regret skipping at Disney World

There are so many overlooked Disney World restaurants that it’s nearly impossible to try them all. Here are five spots I wish I hadn’t overlooked for so long!

If it’s your first time visiting Walt Disney World, you probably have a full list of hyped up restaurants that you want to try. And, if you’ve been to Disney World more than once, you probably have a list of your favorites that you want to head back to. Why risk a mediocre meal when you know exactly what you’re getting at your (and everyone else’s) favorites, right?

For years, I did precisely that and stuck to the same reservations trip after trip, convinced that my go-to spots were the best the parks and resorts had to offer. However, as the Disney crowds have continued to increase, it’s become harder and harder to get a dining reservation at the most coveted spots. That’s why I’m sharing five restaurants that totally surprised me with how good the meal was and how easy it was to get a table! If any of these restaurants have been sitting on your “maybe someday” list, consider this your sign to book that reservation finally.

Liberty Tree Tavern

Location: Liberty Square, Magic Kingdom

There are a lot of restaurants that get talked about in Magic Kingdom, but Liberty Tree Tavern is one that tends to fly under the radar. This sit-down spot serves up a full Thanksgiving meal year-round inside a colonial tavern setting that will make you forget that you’re in the middle of a theme park. 

The colonial tavern atmosphere is warm and inviting, and there’s something special about sitting down to a proper meal in the middle of a busy park day. The Patriot’s Platter is an all-you-care-to-enjoy feast featuring roasted turkey, pot roast, and all the classic sides you’d expect. The mashed potatoes are creamy, the stuffing is savory, and the gravy ties it all together. It’s comfort food done right, and the value is surprisingly good for a table service meal in the park. Just be sure to leave room for dessert because the Oooey Gooey Toffee Cake is SO GOOD!

Why You Should Try It:

• All-you-care-to-eat style means great value for hungry families
• One of the most cozy atmospheres in Magic Kingdom
• Comfort food that hits the spot, especially on a long park day
• A sit-down meal that doesn’t feel like it takes forever

Jungle Navigation Co. LTD Skipper Canteen

Location: Adventureland, Magic Kingdom

Another tucked-away, barely ever talked about restaurant in Magic Kingdom is Jungle Navigation Co., Ltd. Skipper Canteen. The theming alone is worth the visit. You’re dining in the former mess hall of the “Jungle Navigation Company,” which you may recognize from the iconic Jungle Cruise attraction in Magic Kingdom, and the attention to detail (and puns!) is very cool if you’re a fan of the ride.

Skipper Canteen often gets overlooked because of the menu, but this is one of the best places to eat in the parks if you want a meal that’s a bit healthier to balance out all the fries and chicken fingers. The menu pulls inspiration from regions along the “rivers” of the Jungle Cruise, and you can find some more adventurous (but still relatively safe) foods, from the Tastes Like Chicken Because It Is to the Falls Family Falafel to Dr. Falls Signature Grilled Steak.

Plus, Skipper Canteen often has availability when other Magic Kingdom restaurants are fully booked, making it a solid backup plan that doesn’t feel like a compromise.

Why You Should Try It:

• Unique and immersive Jungle Cruise theming
• The menu is more approachable than it looks, with options for adventurous and picky eaters alike
• Often has last-minute availability when other spots are booked
• Servers stay in character with Jungle Cruise-style humor
• It’s a bit out of the way so you can get a break from the Magic Kingdom crowds

Yak & Yeti Restaurant

Location: Asia, Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Disney’s Animal Kingdom is so highly themed to its nature roots that it can be hard to even remember that there are table service restaurants tucked away inside. But, I’m here to tell you that you can’t afford to miss Yak & Yeti Restaurant when you visit! 

The restaurant is themed as a Nepalese merchant’s home, and the multi-room layout makes it feel like you’re eating alone even when it’s busy. The menu is pan-Asian, and while that might sound broad or maybe not your style, the flavors in the dishes here are seriously impressive. The Ahi Tuna Nachos are absolutely delicious if you like tuna, with crispy wonton chips, a creamy wasabi aioli, and fresh tuna that practically melts on your tongue. And, the entrees are equally as tasty, with a lot to choose from.

It’s a great spot for a leisurely lunch or dinner without feeling like you’re losing precious park time.

Why You Should Try It:

• Ahi Tuna Nachos are a must-order appetizer
• Unique theming that stands out from typical Disney restaurants
• A nice break from the usual theme park food options
• The menu offers a variety for different tastes and preferences
• Portions are generous

Sebastian’s Bistro

Location: Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort

A restaurant at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort? Indeed, that can’t be worth going out of your way for…right? WRONG! Sebastian’s Bistro has gained in popularity over the past few years for its relatively low cost, large portions, and good food. And, once you eat here, you’ll be preaching your love for it on the internet too.

The Caribbean-inspired menu is full of flavors that everyone will enjoy, and the family-style option is a great value for how much you get. Plus, it’s another restaurant that offers a nice change of pace from the usual Disney park food. The atmosphere is laid-back and relaxing, and the location makes it an easy stop before or after visiting EPCOT or Disney’s Hollywood Studios via the Disney Skyliner.

Why You Should Try It:

• Great value, especially for family-style dining
• Desserts are a true highlight
• Easy Skyliner access from EPCOT and Hollywood Studios
• Relaxed vibe that’s perfect for a break from the parks
• Caribbean flavors you won’t find at most other Disney restaurants

Ale & Compass Restaurant

Location: Disney’s Yacht Club Resort

Ale & Compass is one of those restaurants that flies completely under the radar, which is a shame because it’s one of my favorite spots in Disney World. Located in Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, this sit-down restaurant features a New England-inspired menu that will make you feel like you’re eating on a literal yacht. And, if that’s not enough to convince you, I’m really thinking that this will: Parker House Rolls!

This is one of the only restaurants in Disney World serving up these sweet and savory rolls, and they are seriously worth going out of your way to get. They come to your table warm and are served with three spreads, including bacon jam, pub cheese, and citrus butter (which I would happily eat by the spoonful). They’re so good that you’ll probably wish you ordered more.

Beyond the bread, the rest of the menu holds up too. The New England Pot Roast is hearty and satisfying, and breakfast here is a great way to start a day at EPCOT or Hollywood Studios. The location near the International Gateway entrance to EPCOT makes it convenient to eat here during in the middle of a park day too.

Why You Should Try It:

• The Parker House Rolls are absolutely worth the trip
• Walking distance to EPCOT’s International Gateway entrance
• Great for breakfast, lunch, or dinner
• Cozy New England theming without being over the top
• Often easier to get a reservation than the nearby Yachtsman Steakhouse

So, have you been sleeping on any of these restaurants, too? Be sure to check out more of our favorite hidden gem restaurants in Disney World hotels here!