The buffets at Disney World are the best place to go when you’re looking to cater to everyone’s taste. It’s a showcase of diverse cuisines and dining experiences, that will satisfy even the pickiest and most discriminating palettes. From character dining adventures to international culinary delights, each buffet offers a unique atmosphere and a wide selection of foods. Whether you’re enjoying the African-inspired dishes at Boma or meeting Disney characters at Chef Mickey’s, there’s a buffet to satisfy every palate, all while providing tips for reservations and making the most of your dining experience.
Disney World is renowned not only for its magical atmosphere but also for its gastronomic delights, providing something for everyone’s appetite. Whether you’re a foodie or just enjoy good company, a visit to a buffet restaurant in Disney World is a surefire way to satisfy your cravings. Navigating the best buffets at Disney World is as exciting as discovering a new attraction, and with this guide, you’re about to embark on a culinary journey that you’ll be talking about for years to come.
Top Disney Buffet Restaurants
From African flavors to American classics, there’s a dining experience for everyone. Let’s dive into the wonderful world of Disney buffets, and discover what each has to offer!
Chef Mickey’s is an iconic Disney buffet that offers a character dining experience with Mickey and friends. Located at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, it serves breakfast, brunch, and dinner with various stations to satisfy any craving. It’s no wonder Chef Mickey’s is one of the most popular Disney World restaurants among park visitors.
1900 Park Fare, found at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, provides a memorable experience, complete with character appearances during dinner. Taking our daughter to this buffet was one of her very first Disney experiences. They offer a wide range of American cuisine options, perfect for the whole family. Remember to have your camera ready for those magical moments with your favorite Disney characters.
For a taste of magic in the Magic Kingdom, The Crystal Palace is the place to be. Inspired by Victorian greenhouses, this buffet restaurant envelops you in an elegant setting while you dine on a selection of American dishes. Don’t be surprised if you spot Winnie the Pooh and friends greeting guests during this enchanting experience!
Over at EPCOT, you will find the Akershus Royal Banquet Hall, which used to offer an authentic Norwegian buffet. Dine like royalty while you savor traditional Scandinavian dishes and enjoy Disney Princess interactions. However, since COVID they’ve switched away from the buffet, but it was a good one. Make sure to plan and dress accordingly for this unique dining adventure.
Cape May Cafe, located at Disney’s Beach Club Resort, is a seafood lover’s paradise. Enjoy an all-you-can-eat seafood buffet, with dishes like crab legs, clams, and mussels – not to mention the delicious variety of desserts!
At Trail’s End, found at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort, it’s served family style, which is a little like a buffet in that you can eat to your heart’s content, but the menu is a little more limited. It’s full of American frontier cuisine, such as fried chicken, BBQ ribs, and cornbread.
In EPCOT’s living laboratory, The Land Pavilion, Garden Grill rotates slowly to provide diners with views of the pavilion’s scenery throughout the meal. This is another family style restaurant where you can feast on farm-fresh food as you get acquainted with Chip ‘n Dale and other Disney characters.
Step back in time to colonial America at the Liberty Tree Tavern in Magic Kingdom, where you will find a family-style buffet featuring classic dishes like turkey, pot roast, and stuffing. Remember that sharing is caring in these historically-inspired surroundings.
Make your way to Disney’s Animal Kingdom for the Tusker House Restaurant. This African-inspired buffet offers unique flavors and dishes in a vibrant atmosphere. Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity to meet Donald Duck and friends dressed in safari attire.
At EPCOT’s World Showcase for a taste of Germany at the Biergarten Restaurant. This buffet-style feast encapsulates the true Bavarian experience with dishes like bratwurst, pretzels, and apple strudel. And of course we can’t leave out the famous Schöfferhofer German Grapefruit Hefeweizen Beer which is always a crowd favorite at the Bier Stand at the front of the Germany Pavilion. The lively ambiance, complete with live entertainment, will surely make you feel like celebrating Oktoberfest! One warning you should take note of: This is authentic German fare, without much in the way of options for those who aren’t familiar with this kind of food. It’s delicious, but it may not be for everyone in your crew (my daughter was not a fan at all).
Have an appetite for more Disney dining adventures? Don’t hesitate to explore the top restaurants in Magic Kingdom and the best Hollywood Studios restaurants. In my experience, every dining experience at Disney World is a delight!
| Location | Restaurant Name | Meal Service | Character Dining | Cuisine Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Magic Kingdom | Crystal Palace | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Yes | American; breakfast classics, carved meats, salads, and desserts |
| Epcot | Biergarten Restaurant | Lunch, Dinner | No | German; bratwurst, rotisserie chicken, pretzels, and Bavarian cheesecake |
| Hollywood Studios | Hollywood & Vine | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Yes | American; breakfast favorites, carved meats, salads, and seafood |
| Animal Kingdom | Tusker House | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Yes | African-inspired; spit-roasted meats, unique salads, and grain dishes |
| Disney’s Contemporary Resort | Chef Mickey’s | Breakfast, Dinner | Yes | American; breakfast classics, carved meats, and a variety of sides |
| Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort | 1900 Park Fare | Breakfast, Dinner | Yes | American; omelets, carved meats, pastas, and a sundae bar |
| Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort | ‘Ohana (Breakfast) | Breakfast | Yes | American and Polynesian; variety of breakfast classics, tropical fruits, and Pua’a (Pork) |
| Disney’s Wilderness Lodge | Whispering Canyon Cafe | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | No | American; traditional Western fare, all-you-care-to-enjoy skillets |
| Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort | Trail’s End | Breakfast, Dinner | No | American; breakfast classics, smoked meats, and a variety of sides |
| Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge | Boma – Flavors of Africa | Breakfast, Dinner | No | African; variety of African-inspired dishes and classic American favorites |
| Disney’s Beach Club Resort | Cape May Café | Breakfast, Dinner | No | Seafood; crab legs, clams, fried shrimp, and prime rib |
The Magic of Character Meals
Imagine dining alongside your favorite Disney characters while enjoying a delicious buffet. It’s a dream come true for throngs of Disney World guests, and we’re here to help you experience it! Let’s explore the magic of character meals at Disney World.
Character meals are a perfect opportunity to meet and mingle with beloved Disney characters like Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, and many more. From breakfast to dinner, these unique dining experiences take place at various locations throughout Disney World.
Our go-to character meal is 1900 Park Fare hosted by the oh-so-practically-perfect, Mary Poppins, and her friend, the Mad Hatter. Our daughter got to dance with Prince Charming and also had a hilarious encounter with the less-than-charming Lady Tremaine and Cinderella’s stepsisters, Anastasia and Drizella.
When it comes to character meals, the choices are nearly endless. And in my experience, there’s truly no better way to interact with your favorite Disney characters.
Remember, you can book these marvelous character meals up to 180 days in advance by calling 1-407-WDW-DINE, booking online at Disney World’s website, or via the MyDisneyExperience mobile app.
So, why wait? Book your Disney World character meal today and experience the unforgettable magic of dining alongside your favorite Disney friends!
Taste Sensations: Popular Buffet Dishes
Imagine you’re at Disney World, hungry after a day of thrilling rides and enchanting attractions. Where should you eat? You’re in luck because Disney World offers some of the best buffets you’ll ever experience! Let’s dive into the popular dishes that will satisfy your taste buds and leave you craving for more.
One great place to start your day is at a breakfast buffet. In my experience, a must-try item is Mickey Waffles. These Disney-themed treats are not only scrumptious but also add an extra layer of magic to your breakfast. Besides the classic Mickey Waffles, you’ll find an abundance of fresh fruit to start your day healthily.
As your day progresses, a dinner buffet offers even more delectable options. At Boma – Flavors of Africa, be prepared to savor their famous Zebra Domes – unique chocolate mousse desserts that will satisfy your sweet tooth. This buffet also features exotic dishes like Durban Chicken and Cape Malay Green Curry Shrimp as a nod to authentic African cuisine.
For seafood lovers, you can’t miss the Cape May Cafe, where crab legs are the star of the show. Pair them up with some shrimp salad for a fulfilling meal. Rest assured, your taste buds will thank you later.
Of course, no buffet experience is complete without some good old fried chicken. At 1900 Park Fare, their fried chicken not only tastes heavenly but is also finger-licking good (pun intended). You might just find this dish the perfect comfort food after a fun-filled day.
In conclusion, Disney World offers a wide variety of buffet dishes, from Mickey Waffles to Zebra Domes, that cater to different preferences. With buffets like these, your time in Disney World will be even more memorable, as you explore a world full of taste sensations. So go ahead, indulge. Your palate deserves a treat!
Family-Style Meals in Walt Disney World
We already touched on this a little bit, but it bares more discussion because the family-style options are amazing. These dining experiences offer an excellent way for your family to bond over large quantities of delicious food and create unforgettable memories.
Walt Disney World Resort is undoubtedly a great place for family-style and buffet dining. With a vast range of options available, there’s something for everyone’s taste buds. From American classics to African delicacies, Disney offers an impressive variety of cuisines for families who love to share and savor every bite.
One of the top choices for family-style dining is Boma – Flavors of Africa, known for its fantastic food, atmosphere, and service. Located at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, this popular restaurant offers an authentic taste of Africa’s diverse culinary traditions. Indulge in dishes like hickory-smoked rotisserie chicken, Moroccan seafood stew, and house-made breads. During your meal, be sure to save a little room for Boma’s famous zebra domes, a treat you’ll surely not want to miss.
Another gem in the realm of Disney family dining is the 1900 Park Fare located at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. This spot offers a memorable experience with its whimsical atmosphere, delightful character interactions, and an enticing menu of American favorites. At 1900 Park Fare, you’ll find not only delicious food but also engaging characters throughout your meal, making for some great photo opportunities and priceless memories.
If you’re seeking a taste of New England, head over to Cape May Cafe at Disney’s Beach Club Resort. Here you’ll find an array of seafood dishes served in a bright and breezy seaside setting. Relish in treats like shrimp, clams, mussels, crab legs, and other ocean-fresh delights. With your family gathered around the table, enjoy the essence of a classic New England clambake at the heart of Disney World.
In my experience, exploring the world of family-style meals at Disney World has always been a gastronomic adventure. No matter what your family’s preferences are, there’s a dining experience waiting for you. Make sure to plan ahead as reservations can fill up quickly, especially during peak vacation times. So grab your forks and get ready for a feast that will leave your family with full bellies and warm memories!
Tips to Enjoy Your Buffet Experience
Eating at a buffet in Disney World is not just about being hungry, it’s about enjoying a unique experience. So, when you decide to embark on a culinary adventure in Disney World, keep these tips in mind to enhance your devouring journey. Trust me, it’s worth it!
First and foremost, consider using the Disney Dining Plan to maximize your savings and convenience (yes, t’s coming back in 2o24!). When you’re on vacation with your family, the last thing you want is to worry about spending too much on food. By opting for the dining plan, you can focus more on the experience and less on the bill.
Making a reservation is an excellent choice to ensure you get a table at your desired buffet location. With so many visitors in the parks, popular restaurants fill up fast! You can make dining reservations even without having purchased park tickets. So, plan ahead and book a reservation at your favorite buffet to avoid disappointment.
Arriving early for your dining reservation can lead to a smoother dining experience. By getting there a little bit before your scheduled time, you give yourself a buffer to account for any unexpected delays. Besides, it may also give you the opportunity to explore the restaurant’s surroundings and immerse yourself in the ambiance.
Adding a person to your dining reservation is possible, but not guaranteed. In case your party size changes, be sure to call the Disney dining reservation line and inquire about the possibility of accommodating additional guests. They will do their best to assist you, but it’s not always possible due to the restaurant’s capacity constraints.
As a buffet lover like yourself, I must emphasize the importance of pacing yourself. It’s a great way to savor the variety of flavors and not risk feeling too full too soon. Be strategic with your plate – pick a few items you’re eager to try first, then gradually head back for seconds or thirds.
Lastly, don’t forget to enjoy the experience. Buffets in Disney World are more than just food – they offer a unique atmosphere that contributes to the magic. Whether you’re dining under the safari sky in Boma or indulging in a character breakfast at 1900 Park Fare, take in the surroundings and cherish the memories you create with your family.
So go ahead, immerse yourself in the tasty world of Disney buffets, and remember – you can always walk it off in the parks later!
Understanding Disney’s Buffet Culture
When you think of Disney, you probably imagine the thrilling rides, the incredible fireworks show (Disney really spends a lot on fireworks), and the smiling faces of thousands of visitors every day. But what may not immediately come to mind is the impressive buffet culture that exists within the Walt Disney World Resort.
Buffets are an integral part of the dining options across all of the Disney Parks, including Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. One thing that sets Disney buffet restaurants apart is their unmatched commitment to quality, variety, and the overall dining experience. From character dining experiences to themed locations, you’ll find a buffet that caters to your taste buds and adds a touch of Disney magic to your meal.
In my experience, trying a buffet at Walt Disney World is a must-do activity for any visit. Not only do you get endless food options with cuisines ranging from American to exotic, but you also enjoy an atmosphere that amplifies the magic of the Disney resort. Many buffet restaurants feature Disney characters or incredible theming, immersing you in a delightful dining experience that’s unforgettable.
Additionally, Disney buffets accommodate a wide range of dietary preferences and restrictions. Whether you’re a vegetarian or have specific food allergies, you’ll find several options to suit your needs. Some buffet restaurants even offer separate serving stations for allergen-free fare, to ensure that your dining experience is as safe and enjoyable as possible.
Another practical aspect of Disney buffets is their convenience in terms of time and efficiency. A visit to a Disney park can be an action-packed day, and sometimes, you just need a quick break to refuel. With the Magic Bands available for easy payment, buffet restaurants offer a hassle-free and time-saving dining alternative. Plus, with EPCOT’s diverse selection of rides and attractions, you might want to make the most of your time by enjoying a buffet meal that lets you experience unique and international flavors, all in one spot.
Now that you have a better understanding of Disney’s buffet culture, don’t hesitate to indulge in the smorgasbord of deliciousness that awaits you on your next Disney World adventure.
How much do Disney World buffets typically cost?
Disney World buffets cost $60 per person roughly, with prices varying based on the buffet location, meal time (breakfast, lunch, or dinner), and whether characters are present. These costs reflect the wide array of dining options available, from casual to premium experiences, and include tax but not gratuity.
