Part of the fun of visiting Walt Disney World is visiting all of the restaurants that are on-site. The 4 major parks in Walt Disney World feature tons of dining options. But, what happens if you don’t have a day at the parks planned? Well, there are lots of options for guests who don’t want to purchase a park ticket to just have dinner. Check out my 4 non-park restaurants to try in Walt Disney World.

1. Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ in Disney Springs

One of my favorite restaurants in all of Walt Disney World is not located in a park. It’s actually in Disney Springs. Located in the Town Center area in Disney Springs, Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ holds its own as a guest favorite. From the mind of Oprah’s famous Chef Art Smith, this restaurant screams comfort and relaxation. The open kitchen layout and screened off deck makes you forget your in Disney and makes you feel like your dining at a friends house in Florida. The atmosphere isn’t the only awesome part of this restaurant. The food is delicious! With options like Art’s Famous Fried Chicken or the Chopped BBQ Plate, you will walk out of here so full and so satisfied. And dinner isn’t the only meal you can enjoy here. Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ also has a Rise & Shine Brunch on the weekends that feature favorites with the Chef Art Smith twist. This restaurant is located in a great place because you can easily walk around and enjoy all Disney Springs has to offer (plus try to walk off some of that food). If you haven’t eaten here yet, I highly recommend you do! Everything is amazing and all of! the staff is so friendly.

2. ‘Ohana at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

Known as another guest favorite, ‘Ohana at Disney’s Polynesian Village features an all-you-care to enjoy menu with a Polynesian flare. Nestled upstairs at the Polynesian, guests can indulge in an array of meats that are brought around from the open air kitchen. Channel churrascaria vibes in a Polynesian environment. The menu here for dinner is similar to the one that is served at the luau, without being 2 table service credits. The restaurant is very welcoming and family friendly. Guests love to visit ‘Ohana later in the evening, in the hopes of catching a prime view of the fireworks at Magic Kingdom. The restaurant dims the lights and pipes in the music from the fireworks show. In addition to a delicious dinner, ‘Ohana is home to a character all-you-care to enjoy character breakfast. Mickey, Stitch, Lilo and Pluto make their debut and greet guests at this tropical affair. 

3. Cape May Cafe at Disney’s Beach Club Resort

Looking to head “Under the Sea” with your dinner? Then Cape May Cafe at Disney’s Beach Club Resort is the place for you. Donning a classic clambake theme and New England vibes throughout the restaurant, Cape May Cafe is the perfect escape. This restaurant is a buffet style and offers diners classic fish options like fried shrimp, clams and calamari. And if you are traveling with a land lover, don’t worry, there’s options for them too! They include mac and cheese, steak and chicken. They also have delicious desserts that shouldn’t be missed. Like it’s predecessor on this list, Cape May Cafe offers guests a character breakfast buffet. If you are looking to meet Mickey and Minnie in their beachwear, then this is the place. Breakfast is very popular at this spot and features tons of breakfast favorites. This is a super popular restaurant for breakfast and dinner, so be sure to grab a reservation if you see one. Cape May Cafe is located at Disney’s Beach Club which is in a prime location for entertainment and activities, which will make the night even more fun! 

4. The Wave… of American Flavors at Disney’s Contemporary Resort

Secretly tucked away in Disney’s Contemporary Resort lies a hidden gem of a restaurant. Featuring options for breakfast, lunch and dinner, guests can enjoy classic American dishes in a “Contemporary” restaurant. If you can only visit this restaurant for one meal, I would recommend breakfast. They have a delicious breakfast buffet with items such as Mickey Waffles, Bacon and Sausage. And you can order an omelet to be delivered to your table. It is a great experience and definitely worth a table service credit for breakfast. It’s also a great option for those who don’t want to have the character buffet experience, but still want the buffet! Dinner is also a great choice and is rotational based on the season. This one is also a bit easier to get a reservation for, so if your in a pinch, this is the perfect place. 

Do you have a favorite non-park restaurant that is your go-to? Let me know in the comments below!

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