While taking a trip to Disney World may seem to be all about jumping on as many rides as possible then catching a perfect view of the nighttime fireworks, enjoying the wide variety of restaurants available on the property should be just as high-up on your list as conquering Everest. Even though quick service food stops are quicker and more convenient, taking the time to visit a resort or stop and eat while at a park may prove to be rewarding.
Here are eight restaurants that you should look into making reservations for if you have time during your busy trip to "The Most Magical Place on Earth."
1. Boma — Flavors of Africa
This is my favorite restaurant on the Walt Disney World property. Located at the Animal Kingdom Lodge in the Jambo House, this buffet style dining experience features food varieties ranging from a carving station to fresh fruit to custom meals. Open for breakfast and dinner, the overall quality of the food served at this restaurant is always top-notch. The American style cuisine has African influences that put a new spin on your favorites.
2. Be Our Guest Restaurant
If you dream of dining like you're a princess, this restaurant found within the Magic Kingdom is the place to go. Immersed by scenes from "Beauty and the Beast," guests are able to experience a meal either in The Grand Ballroom, The West Wing or The Castle Gallery—all of which take you back to one of Disney's classic fairytales. The American, French food is served for breakfast, lunch and dinner with special guest appearances during dinner.
3. Grand Floridian Cafe
Found within the beautiful Grand Floridian resort, the Grand Floridian Cafe is an exquisite dining experience. While there are limited food choices, the options served are all incredibly well-prepared. My favorite being the Miso-glazed Salmon is a dish I look forward to with every trip to Disney World.
4. Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant
Instead of going to a drive-in movie, munching on popcorn and laying uncomfortably in your backseat, having a meal at Hollywood Studios' Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater is a much better option. The 50's style ambiance coupled with infamous science fiction clips playing on the big screen will make your hamburger and fries something to remember.
5. Via Napoli Ristorante e Pizzeria
Let's face it—no matter where we are, at some point we all end up craving a nice slice of pizza. Located at the Italy pavilion in Epcot, Via Napoli serves authentic Italian cuisine with their main focus being their wood-fired pizzas. If you're wondering how good the pizzas are, I have a friend who refused to eat any pizza other than that of Via Napoli's because "nothing could ever compare."
6. Sanaa
If you're a fan of spice, a meal at Sanaa at the Animal Kingdom Lodge Kidani Village is the choice for you. Joined with a eye-level view of the savannah, Sanaa puts you right in the middle of the African culture—the decorations, food and music are all worth being appreciated. The Indian-style Bread Service is by-far one of the most impressive appetizers I've ever had both in and out of Disney.
7. The Hollywood Brown Derby
Sitting in the middle of the Golden Age of Hollywood, The Hollywood Brown Derby at Hollywood Studios is the epitome of what the park is trying to remind you of when walking down Hollywood Boulevard and Sunset Boulevard. Your contemporary American food is perfectly accompanied by caricatures of the most idolized celebrities.