Restaurants At DVC Resorts Worth Leaving The Parks For

Disney World is home to hundreds of restaurants, food stands, lounges, and other dining locations. While the Disney parks have plenty of great restaurants to choose from, some of the best dining experiences can be found outside of the parks. Disney’s resorts are home to restaurants that serve unique meals, offer character dining experiences, and even provide incredible views. Taking a break from the parks for a meal can also be a great way to slow down and explore a Disney resort you’ve never visited before. If you are willing to leave the parks for a meal, these Disney World restaurants are definitely worth the trip!

Sanaa at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge is a great resort to visit even if you aren’t staying there, and Sanaa is one restaurant that makes the trip especially worthwhile. Located at Kidani Village, Sanaa serves African and Indian-inspired cuisine with views of the resort’s savanna. Guests can watch animals like giraffes and zebras while enjoying their meal, making this restaurant an experience in itself. One of the most popular items at Sanaa is the Indian-style Bread Service. Guests can enjoy several types of bread alongside a variety of accompaniments and sauces. Sanaa is a great choice for guests who want to try something a bit different during their Disney vacation.

Steakhouse 71 at Disney’s Contemporary Resort

Located just a short walk away from Magic Kingdom, Disney’s Contemporary Resort is home to Steakhouse 71. This restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, making it an easy restaurant to fit into your park day. Steakhouse 71 features classic steakhouse favorites with a Disney twist, and its convenient location makes it especially great for Magic Kingdom guests. Leaving the park for lunch or dinner can give you a much-needed break from the crowds before heading back for more attractions. You can even take the monorail from Magic Kingdom to the Contemporary Resort for an easy and fun journey to your meal.

Topolino’s Terrace at Disney’s Riviera Resort

Disney’s Riviera Resort is home to one of the most unique dining experiences outside of the parks. Topolino’s Terrace- Flavors of the Riviera is located at the very top of the resort and features incredible views of Disney World. During breakfast, guests can enjoy a character dining experience with Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, and Daisy Duck dressed in unique outfits. Dinner at Topolino’s Terrace is a completely different experience, with French and Italian-inspired cuisine including seafood, pasta, steak, and more. Topolino’s Terrace is also conveniently located along the Disney Skyliner route, making it easy to reach from EPCOT or Hollywood Studios.

‘Ohana at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

If you are spending the day at Magic Kingdom then hopping on the monorail to Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort for a meal at ‘Ohana is definitely worth considering. ‘Ohana is one of the most popular restaurants at Disney World and serves both breakfast and dinner. This restaurant is family-style, so guests can sit back and enjoy as the food comes directly to their table. The atmosphere of the Polynesian makes leaving the parks feel like an experience rather than just a meal. After eating, guests can explore the resort, grab a DOLE Whip, or simply enjoy the tropical atmosphere before heading back to Magic Kingdom.

Jiko- The Cooking Place at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

Another restaurant worth traveling to Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge for is Jiko- The Cooking Place. This signature restaurant serves African-inspired cuisine in a beautiful and relaxing setting. Guests can enjoy unique menu items like Moroccan-spiced lamb, seafood, steak, and more. Jiko is a great restaurant for guests who are looking for something a bit more upscale during their Disney vacation. A trip to Jiko also gives you another excuse to explore Animal Kingdom Lodge and check out the savanna viewing areas before or after your meal.

What Disney World restaurant do you think is worth leaving the parks for? We want to hear from you in the comments below!

Featured Photo: Emily Murray.