Welcome to our Top list of the best restaurants to take kids at Walt Disney World. Whether you’re planning a visit or hungry already in the parks, our list will help!
You’re probably wondering how we created the list and the scientific approach we used to rank it. Good question! Keep reading to find out…
We love buffets! There’s nothing worse than ordering a $20 entree for your child, only to watch them pick at it and leave the rest! Buffets allow your child to return and choose anything they like – you just have to decide if you’re going to go along and guide them away from dessert!
Although we love a good deal we haven’t made any assumptions on how much you’d like to spend and didn’t prioritise cheap places over expensive (or the other way round). So we gave an indication on typical entree prices as a guide. We know you’re on vacation and might want to splash out a little.
Now on to Character dining…. kids love meeting Mickey and friends and every parent enjoys getting their meal interrupted, right? Don’t worry we haven’t factored character dining here in the ranking but do show if it’s available. Your choice!
We’ve all been there – you make your booking for your exciting themed restaurant. You walk in and are greeted by friendly staff. The table looks immaculate and the food smells amazing. Then your 7 year old takes one look at the menu and bursts into tears because there’s no mac n cheese! So, we’ve included plenty of places with kid-friendly options.
For a couples dinner we always avoid noisy restaurants but these can be our best friend if our kids are with us and acting up. We’ve all been there in an intimate restaurant with our kids wanting to scream the place down. So we’ve avoided quiet places in our list here.
The Crystal Palace, Magic Kingdom
Image: Joel
We love this one because it’s in the middle of Magic Kingdom, right on Main Street and if you find a good seat, you’ll get an amazing view of the Cinderella Castle. Imagine eating an amazing buffet in the middle of a Victorian-themed greenhouse. There’s something for every taste, adults and kids included. Character Dining paused for a little while during the pandemic but thankfully this is now the place to catch Pooh and friends from the Hundred Acre Wood.
Price: medium – $35 to $60 for adults
Be Our Guest, FantasyLand
Image: Joel
If you have a tiny Belle (or even a hungry Beast) in your family they’ll love this one. Two stunning rooms transport you directly back to Beauty and the Beast! There’s delicious food for the little ones and adults too. There’s a classic French Onion soup here and a Poulet Rouge (chicken) but not too many other French options. Lots of allergy-friendly options and a wonderful French champagne and wine menu.
Price: expensive! At least $60 for an adult (even for lunch) and $37 for kids
Akershus Royal Banquet Hall, EPCOT
Image: Josh Hallet
Your tiny princesses will feel right at home here, with Storybook Dining in a real Norwegian Castle, located right in World Showcase! They can meet their favourite Disney Princesses and get autographs from Snow White or Cinderella while eating some delicious banquet food. If the kids are feeling brave they can try some true Norwegian treats such as imported cheese, cured meats or meatballs, or just go for some favourites like pizza or pasta. Watch out for the Royal Chef’s Dessert Plate and finally…. we strongly recommend booking ahead since this is so popular.
Price: expensive – over $60 for an adult dinner entree – $40 for kids
Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater, Hollywood Studios
Image: HarshLight
So honestly, do your kids really want a 1950’s themed diner showing old B-movies? Of course they do! This might be a case where the parents are a little more excited but you can’t pretend the theming isn’t amazing. Plus it’s nice and busy in case anyone is acting up. Kids love the classic diner options like burgers and sundaes. There’s a nice allergy friendly menu and cocktails for the grown-ups…
Price: not bad – $15 to $35 for an adult dinner entree
Harambe Market, Animal Kingdom
Image: HarshLight
Located in Africa in the Animal Kingdom, this place is on the cheaper side with most dishes under $15. You’ll really feel like you’ve eaten something good with a choice of ribs & chicken, harambe salad or a Simba cupcake to finish. There’s coffee and Moroccan lager if you’re desperate! Dining reservations can be made online.
We think the most exciting new restaurant for kids is in this park but it’s not this one…
Price: cheap – $15 for adult entrees
Biergarten Restaurant, EPCOT World Showcase
Image: Steven Miller
Bear with us… we know this conjures images of huge glasses of beer (not too kid friendly) but the German atmosphere and live band make this truly unmissable. You’ll find this one in the Germany pavilion in World Showcase… probably not a huge surprise! This is another buffet, served family style on long tables and yes, both Dad and Mom can enjoy some delicious German drinks. We think the price has increased a little over the years.
Price: medium – $35 to $65 for an adult dinner or $25 for kids
Before we get to our favourite, you can head over to our map to check out the locations of all these restaurants on Google Maps.
And finally…
Satu’li Canteen, Pandora, Animal Kingdom
Image: Ken Henderson
Two words for this gem: cheeseburger pods! Imagine customizable bowls like Chipotle mixed with animal theming in the World of Avatar’s Pandora and you’ll be spot on. If you can imagine that. If your child wants to avoid all the veggies and load up on protein, this is a great option. This place is popular so be sure to use the mobile ordering service if you need it. Oh and yes, the picture shows the Naovi River Journey since it’s so cool and right next door.
Price: cheap for the amazing experience – $15 entree